6 Habits That Kill Your Intelligence

 

Although you may not believe it, there are certain habits that you have fallen in to, which are hindering your ability to move forward in life. Although you think it has no effect on your life, these bad habits that kill your intelligence not only set you back, they are also going to stop you from being able to accomplish certain things, or attain the goals that you have set for yourself. These are some habits that are holding you back, and possibly causing you to make poor choices or decisions in your life.

1. Not Creating and evaluating

It is impossible for you to go forward and backward at the same time; it is also impossible for you to go up and down simultaneously, the same goes with your mind. When you are trying to create something, and evaluate the success at the same time, you are never going to get a project going.

You first have to find out what you want to create, how it is going to work, and draw out the plans; you will then create a project or product, and only after it has been created and implemented, can you begin to evaluate how it is performing, in any situation. Give things time, and do not try to do two complete opposite tasks, at the same time.

2. You think you’re are expert 

The expert syndrome is another habit people have, which kills their intelligence. When you believe you are an expert at every and anything, you stop learning. You will never be humble enough to listen to others, and learn from their experience.

This is in fact going to set you back, and is going to hinder your intelligence. Be open to the fact that you do not know everything, and that anyone can help you learn something new. Not only will this allow you to learn new things, it will help you come off as less of an ignorant person with others.

3. Fear -

If you are always afraid you are going to fail, you are never going to try something new. It is likely you are going to fail, more than once, especially if you have never done something before. But, if you never try, or never attempt to learn something new because you are afraid you are going to fail, you are never going to get better, and are never going to learn new things. So, you have to eliminate the fear, and accept the fact that failure comes with everything new you are going to try.

4. Lack of confidence -

This goes hand in hand with the fear to fail. If you always believe you are going to mess up, and do not have confidence in the things you do, you can never learn and grow. Having confidence in yourself, even if you are doing something wrong, allows you to learn, and grow, and it allows you to move forward. This will help build intelligence, and allow you to learn new things, and experience new things in life.

 5. Creating limits -

Although you may have certain limits (such as financial, or certain capacities), when you create false limits, you are hindering your intelligence and ability to learn. When you put obstacles in the way, that are not really there, you are never going to try things. This will not only kill your intelligence, it will also stop you from trying new things, and learning new things that can make you better, and can possibly make you a more successful person. So, remove irrelevant limits, and those which are only created by you in your mind.

6. Drinking -

Although it is something enjoyable, alcohol does hinder your intelligence and ability to comprehend or grasp subjects. So, drinking every once in a while will not kill all brain cells, but you should know that alcohol (and drugs), will hinder, and kill your brain cells, making it harder to learn new things. So, if you do consume alcohol, it should be done lightly, and it should be done infrequently, so as to ensure you are not going to cause damage to your brain, and possibly cause problems with the future ability to learn new things and expand on knowledge basis.

by threscothic .

 

Test Different Routes for your Work Commute

 

Commuting, especially for hours a day, can be a drain. You might think there's only one efficient way to and from the office, but if you test out other routes when you can, you may be surprised to find an unconventional route that's a smoother or less stressful trip.

It's well understood that commuters experience higher levels depression, anxiety, and blood pressure the longer their commute is. Even so, short of changing jobs or relocating, substantially improving your commute can be difficult. . Even if you think you take the shortest route to work, you might want to start exploring other routes that may shorten your commute in terms of time spent in transit. It could at least make the trip less stressful.

For example, even if there's a freeway exit that is right next to your office, try taking the one before or after it. The unusual route might be less congested on the last leg of your trip.
If you commute five days a week to work, saving even a few minutes a day both ways can add up to hours (and even days) saved over the course of months. Check out some more tips to shave time off your commute below.

photo by pj.

The Calm and Collected Workspace

 

Here's a traditional workspace with personality. From the great wood desktop to the starfish pulls, it's the little details that make this office look pulled together.

Viscusi Elson Interior Design designed this office, choosing a mostly white and wood color scheme. The bluish-green wall paint (Benjamin Moore HC-138 Convington Blue Eggshell, FYI) adds a calming note, while the dark desktop adds great contrast in an otherwise airy room. I like that this office looks like one that someone actually uses, while still having a sense of style.

If you have a workspace of your own to show off, share them with us by adding it to our Lifehacker Workspace Show and Tell Flickr pool. Make sure any photos you include are at least 640x360. Keeping them to 16:9 helps, too! Include a little text about the stuff you used, how you came up with the design, and any other relevant details. If your clever organization and good design sense catches our eye, you might be the next featured workspace.

Saving Money How to Try Hard-to-Find Products Before You Buy Them

How to Try Hard-to-Find Products Before You Buy Them

 

When you go shopping for headphones, HDTVs, and other pricey gear, it helps to research, but there's nothing like trying before you buy. It may seem difficult, especially with electronics, but it's not impossible. Here are some tricks to get your hands, ears, and eyes on the stuff you want before you spend a ton of cash.

Reading reviews and doing research can only help you so much. If you find sites and reviewers with opinions you trust, you're in good shape, but as our own Whitson Gordon noted, if it's all you rely on, you'll miss out on better stuff. Research has diminishing returns, and there's a point where only you can really be the judge of whether a pair of headphones, a new TV, or a pair of speakers are right for you. Sadly, most stores don't just let us take stuff home and use it, then decide we don't want it anymore-to a degree. Here are some ways you can still do your homework, but get a more hands-on experience at the same time.

Join Enthusiast Clubs and Groups That Have Meet-Ups

One great way to get hands-on before you buy is to get familiar with enthusiast clubs and industry groups that have regular showcases, community meetups, and enthusiast events where you'll have the opportunity to try the things on your wishlist before you drop money on them. For example, if you're a big fan of headphones and audio gear but you're not keen on dropping hundreds on an unknown product, join enthusiast groups like Head-Fi, where community members hold regular meetups all over the globe to share and talk audio gear. You'll have the opportunity to see and hear the gear you're researching, and talk to knowledgeable people who can help you make an informed buying decision. Photography meetup groups are common too. You can find a group for just about anything at Meetup.com, or any of these other great places to meet new people.
Similarly, don't forget friends, and the beauty of Craigslist. It's useful to help you find bargains, but if your friends have something you're thinking about buying ask them if you can give those headphones or their HDTV a test drive with your own music or movies first. If you're shopping for a discount on Craigslist, trying before you buy is almost a must. Either way, it may require venturing out to the real world, but you can easily supplement your research with a few hands-on impressions.

Sniff Out Brand Stores and Showrooms

Industry groups, trade shows, and showcases that are open to the public are also great ways to get hands-on experience with the things you're considering before you buy. Home shows and showrooms are great places to get familiar with new appliances, hardware, indoor and outdoor design elements, and more without having to flat out buy anything. Trade shows give you the opportunity to talk to industry representatives (who often want to make a sale, so be careful) about their products as well.
Similarly, enthusiast stores and showrooms that specialize in one specific product or category can help you try before you buy. HDTV showrooms, speaker and audio stores, and brand stores are all great destinations. You'd be surprised which brands have stores too-sure you can always try computers at a Microsoft Store or Apple Store, but Sennheiser, Sony, and Bose all have audio stores that showcase their own gear, and most let you listen before you buy (if you buy.) Home theater showrooms-not big box retailers, mind you-will often let you play with TVs and tweak their settings to see what you're in for when you get the model back home. Of course, there's no way to replicate how a TV will look or how speakers sound in your own space, but you'll have a general idea.

Try Loan-to-Own Services When You Find Them

While they're not extremely common, loan to own services that aren't essentially high-interest, high-cost lending schemes do exist. They're generally geared towards specific people though-for example, The Cable Company offers one to audio and home theater fans in the United States, and while you can certainly try headphones, cables, and other audio products before you buy them, you do have to sink in a deposit and agree to their terms and conditions before you can get involved. It's not as simple as picking something off the shelf at the library-although it's about as good as you can get online.
Speaking of libraries, don't underestimate the resources your local library may have available. Some libraries have tool lending libraries, for example, where you can check out power tools you'd need for home repair work before you spend money on something expensive (or instead of spending money on something expensive.) Hackerspaces and makerspaces, as we've mentioned before, all give you places to get your DIY on, but they often allow members to sign out equipment for their own projects as long as they make sure to bring it back and bring it back in good condition (or replace it). Do a little digging in your community-whether it's your local area or your enthusiast community of choice. You may find an organization dedicated to letting people borrow before they buy-or buy used out of that borrowing pool.

Shop Smart and Support Businesses with Good Return Policies

Finally, when you're ready to open your wallet, remember to support those stores that were influential in helping you make your decision, and to give back to the communities that helped you out. The more you pay the favor of good information forward, the more healthy online communities and businesses there are others like you-and for you when it's time to do your homework again. The same applies if you want to take the "buy, try, then return" approach-make sure you patronize businesses with good return policies, support them with your final purchase, and don't abuse those policies just to try everything they have an eventually send it back. Be mindful, do your homework ahead of time, and then make an educated decision.

---

While you can't always try everything before you buy it, there are ways to get hands on with the things you're interested in before you throw down hundreds-possibly thousands-of dollars on a new appliance, gadget, or piece of electronics. You may have to do even more homework (and maybe even drive a ways to test things out), but at the end of the day, you'll be happier with your purchase in the long run if you do the extra legwork. Bonus: You won't catch yourself trying to sell your mistaken purchase to buy what you really wanted later if you do that legwork now.

Double Spacing After a Period Could Reveal Your Age

Depending on your age and where you went to school, you may have learned keyboard skills on a typewriter rather than a computer. Those of us who learned on a typewriter were usually told to double space after a period. Try single spacing on your resume and emails if you want to avoid some unintended age discrimination.

Career counselor Marc Miller wrote in a LinkedIn Post some tips to avoid appearing older than you want to be when applying for a job. He recommends single spacing after a period in all communications:

I am going to go out a limb and declare that putting two spaces after a period is obsolete. It is how most of us were taught to type on a typewriter. Therefore, most of us who do this (I have taught myself to stop putting two spaces after a period and it was hard) are over 50 years of age.

Over the years, I have heard that this has been used as a method of screening out older candidates.

We've covered the single vs double space debate before and its history from the typewriter days (though some dispute the original source of the double space). Whatever the reason, consider it the next time your write a potential employer.

Photo by Mahesh.

 

Stop Wasting So Much Time Analyzing Your Efficiency

 

Oftentimes, we spend an inordinate amount of time of trying to make things more efficient. This is great, but XKCD reminds us that it's often a futile effort. 

It's an age old cost-benefit problem, but it's always nice to get a reminder to check your methods. If you're spending more time thinking about a problem or trying to make it more efficient than it takes to actually complete the project, then you're doing something wrong.

SUPER SPORTS MAN AB de Villiers AB's Favourite Book: The Bible

SUPER SPORTS MAN AB de Villiers

» Biography

THE BASICS

• Full Name: Abraham Benjamin de Villiers (prefers to be called AB)
• Nickname: Abbas
• Date of Birth: 17 February, 1984
• Star Sign: Aquarius
• Place of Birth: Warmbaths/Warmbad (now renamed Bela Bela), Transvaal Province
• Currently Resides: Pretoria, Gauteng Province
• Height: 178cm (5’10″)
• Family: Parents – Millie & Abraham Benjamin; and brothers – Jan & Wessels (9 years & 6 years older respectively)
• Marital status: Married to Danielle Swart (March 30, 2013)
• Schools Attended: AB went to primary school in Warmbaths, and then became a boarder at Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool.
• Occupation: South African cricketer and part-time musician (AB writes songs, plays the guitar and released an album with Ampie du Preez called, “Maak Jou Drome Waar” in August 2010.)

AB’s FAVOURITES

• Cricket Ground: SuperSport Park, Centurion (his home ground)
• Form of Cricket: Test Matches
• Food Indulgences: Pasta and seafood
• Drink: Passionfruit and soda
• Restaurant: Crawdaddy’s, Menlyn Park
• Sportsmen: Tiger Woods & Roger Federer
• Rugby Teams: Blue Bulls & Springboks
• Soccer Team:  Manchester United
• School Subject: Biology
• Movies: “Gladiator” & “A River Runs Through It”
• Song: “Needs” by Collective Soul, & “All That I Have” by Snow Patrol
• Band: Snow Patrol
• Book: The Bible
• Actress: Kate Beckinsale
• Number: 17

MISCELLANEOUS

• Alternative career: “I would probably be a doctor like my dad, but I’ve never had the chance to study”.
• First job: carrying the drinks in the backyard while his brothers played cricket. AB was 4 years old and his reward at the end of the day was the chance to bat.
• Who he’d invite to dinner: Nelson Mandela, Tiger Woods, Roger Federer & Kate Beckinsale. AB has also mentioned he’d invite Brad Pitt (and maybe Angelina, too).
• Scared of: snakes

 

EARLY LIFE
Abraham Benjamin de Villiers (more commonly known by his initials, AB) was born on February 17, 1984 in Pretoria, Transvaal Province, South Africa. He is the youngest of three sons born to parents Millie and Abraham Benjamin (who AB is named after) – his older siblings being Jan (9 years older) and Wessels (6 years older). His mother works in property, while his father is a doctor with a general practice. AB was raised in the small town of Warmbad, in the north of the country, where he attended primary school. It was here that AB learned to play cricket in the backyard with his brothers.
“When I was very young, I started playing cricket in the garden against my older brothers, Jan and Wessels, and Martin van Jaarsveld [who later played for the Titans and South Africa],” AB remembers. “I had to carry the water and, after a long day, they would finally give me my chance. I was a little ou and they were all in matric. They would try to intimidate me. The bat was actually too heavy for me, and I would rest it on the dustbin while they were walking back to their mark,” he says. “They battled to get me out and they would get so frustrated that they’d bowl a couple of beamers at me to see what I would do. Saturday games at our house in Bela Bela were very competitive. My brothers were merciless. They were monsters. There were always a lot of tears—usually mine,” he laughs.
“I decided when I was 10 that I was going to do something in sport one day,” he said. “I realised then that that was my way to go. My mum and dad are good at sports and I’ve got two older brothers who drilled into me how to play. I’m six years younger they made it clear that if I wanted to be involved I was going to get it, so every single game was unbelievably competitive. We’re very competitive, my mum most of all, and when we get on to a tennis court or golf course the family stops. That’s how I grew up, every single day of my life I was playing something, and from about 16 it was cricket. It’s part of the Afrikaans culture, playing it hard and doing your best. But it’s very important to stay humble, that was a very big part of my growing up, not getting big-headed.”
AB went to Afrikaans Hoër Seunsskool in Pretoria, across the road from Loftus Versfeld, where Jacques Rudolph was also a student.
AB is one of those boys who most of us knew at school and both resented and wanted to be. He plays golf off a handicap of two, not having had time to maintain his scratch rating, gave up tennis at the age of 13 when he was in the national squad and did not want to leave home to attend the Nick Bollettieri Academy in Florida, and had an offer to play at fly-half for the Blue Bulls (provincial rugby team). Actually, maybe he was better than the average bloke you knew at school.
If things have come easy to AB, he has inherited his culture’s work ethic. Church and sport are twin religions. “Sundays in church, and whenever I’ve got time off church, cricket and golf.”

MAKING HIS DREAMS COME TRUE

“I was eight years old when I saw Jonty’s world famous run out against Australia in the 1992 World Cup. It really made an impression on me. I remember thinking: this is a cool game! I started dreaming of following in Jonty’s footsteps,” he says. Recognising their son’s cricketing aptitude, AB’s parents decided to send their talented son to Affies. “At that stage I participated in various sports and wasn’t sure what I wanted to focus on. However, when I made the South African Colt team at 16, I realised cricket was something I could pursue professionally. I started working harder. I wanted to be the best in my age group.”
While playing for the South African Schools Eleven, he was spotted by the Titans’ coach Dave Nosworthy. Dave gave him a chance to play for this team against Canada in a 2003 World Cup warm-up game. “It was the first time that I played a televised game. I was very nervous, but I thrive under pressure, especially if people are watching. Life is all about grabbing opportunities. I grabbed the opportunity with both hands,” he says.
He was a star of the South African Under-19 team in England in 2003, and then played for the Carrickfergus Cricket Club in Northern Ireland in 2004. AB says this was a big step in his life as it was the first time he lived away from home. He had to learn to become independent and self-sufficient.
Soon after, AB played for the Northern Titans before being selected to play Test cricket at the tender age of 20 years old. “I love Test cricket,” AB said. “I love the intensity and the pressure, and when I was batting at Durban I couldn’t hear the crowd. When you move from the provincial side into the national side you’ve got doubts, but if the doubts get to you you’ll struggle.”
“Making cricket my career and playing for the national squad are dreams come true. We have been in a learning phase for the past few years—and it has paid off. It’s all about consistency. In the past we may have been guilty of not playing a consistent game. But we have returned to the basics, we know and understand each other and we have worked consistently towards the same goals. We have also stuck to the same ‘brave’ brand of cricket.
[Read more about AB's cricket career here.]

THE FUTURE

“Personally, I have grown as a player in the past two years. I have found my feet on the field. Performing consistently has also been a personal highlight for me and it remains my number one goal,” says AB. However, he emphasises that his life isn’t just focused on cricket. Off the field, AB loves spending time with his family and friends. He also plays golf (off a five handicap), tennis and the guitar.
AB and a friend, Ampie du Preez released the motivational song ‘Show Them Who You Are’ at the end of last year. This song became the anthem of the Proteas’ rise to victory against Australia. By early 2010, AB and Ampie are hoping to release their first CD. “It has always been my dream to make and record music. And we’re not merely dabbling in it—we’ve decided that our CD can’t be anything but great,” says AB who also took piano lessons and sang in the school choir in primary school.
[Read more about AB's music here.]
In addition, he is a partner in his brothers’ fast food businesses. They will soon start a catering business together. This move is part of his long-term after-cricket strategy. When asked in an interview with SA SportsIllustrated in mid-2009, whether he could see himself playing until he was 40, AB replied, “No. Not to 40. There is no chance. I think there is more to life than just playing cricket for 25 years. I will definitely find the right time to retire. When I start my family I am definitely going to retire. I am not going to wait till I am 40.”
AB is also passionate about his involvement in Francois Pienaar’s Make a Difference Foundation. This organization gives underprivileged children the opportunity to attend the country’s best schools, so he mentors one particular youngster at school in Johannesburg and he donates 100% of his fee for giving weekly radio interviews to M.A.D. He has even arranged to print, at his own cost, postcards with a photograph and space for him to sign, that he can carry in his cricket bag and hand out to the youngsters who stand and wait, craving his autograph. “I am a devout Christian and would like to pursue a goal in this regard one day. I’d like start an initiative through which I can touch people’s lives and make the world a better place in whatever way I can.
At this stage, it is still just a dream, but I see it as the measure of true success. I can’t just live for myself.” When talking to AB you get the feeling that it is only a matter of time before this dream also becomes a reality. Realising goals is all about self belief and hard work, he says. “Success is 99% self belief. You have to be confident in your abilities. And hard work comes naturally if you have a passion for something.”

Food 5 Amazing Brunch Recipes That Are Too Good To Be True

5 Amazing Brunch Recipes That Are Too Good To Be True

 Brunch is one of the best things to happen to humanity, especially because it combines two great meals - breakfast and lunch. Here are 5 amazing brunch recipes that are too good to be true.

Baked Egg Boats
Ingredients:
· 4 semi sourdough baguettes
· 5 eggs
· 1/3 cup heavy cream
· 4 ounces pancetta or bacon, finely chopped and fried until crisp
· 3 ounces gruyere cheese, grated
· 2 green onions, thinly sliced
· salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
· Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
· Cut the top of each baguette into a deep 'V' until about a 1/2 inch to the bottom and partially unstuff the baguettes. Keep them aside.
· Add the cream and the eggs to a bowl and beat slightly.
· Add the remaining ingredients and season lightly with pepper and salt.
· Pour the mixture into each baguette boat and place them onto a baking sheet.
· Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the baguettes turn golden brown and the egg mixture has set in the center.
· Season with salt and pepper and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before you cut and serve them.

Pancake Breakfast Tacos
Ingredients
· 5 eggs, beaten
· 2 tablespoons butter
· 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
· 1 cup grated cheese
· 6 slices of bacon, fried and diced
· 4 pancakes made from regular pancake mix
· Maple syrup
· 1 container ready-made salsa

Directions:
· Make each pancake about 5 inches wide and keep them aside.
· Heat the butter and eggs in a pot over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent them from burning.
· When the eggs have scrambled, divide the eggs over the pancakes evenly.
· Add some chopped bacon over them and then grated cheese.
· Garnish with the cilantro, drizzle some maple syrup and add a spoonful of the salsa.

Blueberry And Brie Grilled Cheese Waffles
Ingredients:
· 1 1/2 cups blueberries
· Zest of 1 lemon
· 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
· 1 tablespoon sugar
· 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
· 8 waffles
· 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced

Directions:
· Mix the lemon zest, blueberries, sugar, lemon juice and sugar in a pan, bring to a boil, lower and then simmer for 5 minutes.
· In a medium-high heat pan, heat butter.
· Top the waffles with slices of brie, and a generous scoop of the blueberry compote to make 4 sandwiches.
· Add the sandwiches to the pan and grill until the cheese has melted and the waffles are golden brown in color.

Roasted Vegetable Frittata
Ingredients:
· 1⁄2 red onion, diced
· 1⁄2 green bell pepper, chopped
· 1⁄2 red bell pepper, chopped
· 1 cup sweet corn kernels
· 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
· 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
· 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
· 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
· 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
For the Frittata:
· 8 large eggs
· 2 garlic cloves, minced
· 2 tablespoons heavy cream
· 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
· 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
· Preheat the oven to 450oF.
· In a bowl, add the peppers, onions, broccoli and corn, toss them with the olive oil, pepper and salt.
· In another bowl, add the mushrooms and toss with the remaining olive oil.
· Place the vegetables into the oven and roast them for 20 to 25 minutes.
· To make the frittata, add the eggs, cream, garlic, pepper and salt to a large bowl and whisk.
· Pour the egg mixture over the roasted vegetables and bake the frittata until the top is golden and the eggs are set. This should take about 20 to 25 minutes.
· Allow the frittata cool in the skillet for 10 minutes before you slice it and serve it.

Avocado And Egg Corn Cakes
Ingredients:
· 1 cup whole wheat flour
· 1 cup finely ground cornmeal
· 1 teaspoon baking soda
· 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
· 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
· 11⁄2 cups corn kernels
· 1 shallot, diced
· 2 garlic cloves, minced
· 2 large eggs
· 1 cup low-fat milk
· 2 tablespoons olive or canola oil
· 4 large eggs, for serving
· 1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and sliced
· 3 small tomatoes, quartered

Directions:
· Whisk the baking soda, flour, salt, pepper and cornmeal in a large bowl.
· Add the shallots, corn, and garlic to the dry ingredients and mix well.
· Whisk the milk and eggs in a small bowl and add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix well.
· Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil.
· Scoop the corn cake batter into the skillet and cook until the cakes start to bubble and set. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
· Flip gently and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.
· Remove the corn cakes with a spatula and place onto a baking sheet or plate. Repeat with the remaining batter.
· Cook the eggs the way you like it - over easy, sunny side up, scrambled, or poached.
· Assemble the corn cakes by adding the tomatoes and avocado slices over the top.
· Top each corn cake with the egg and serve.

De Villiers, who has been shortlisted by Cricket South Africa for the 2013 South African Cricketer of the Year award, is a man of numerous sporting talents.
Here's a list of sports AB has excelled in soon after her joined Afrikaanse Hoer Seunskool, a premier sporting institute in South Africa, at the age of 13.
> He was shortlisted for South Africa's junior national hockey team.
> He made it to the shortlist of South Africa's junior national football team.
> He was captain of South Africa's junior national rugby team.
> He holds six South African school swimming records.
> He holds the record in the 100m dash in South Africa's junior athletics.
> He was a member of South Africa's junior Davis Cup tennis team.
> He was South Africa's U-19 national badminton champion.
> Has a golf handicap of scratch or zero, which means he is a player whose average score for a round of golf is par or better.
> He is a recipient of the prestigious national medal from the Late Nelson Mandela for a science project.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

De Villiers, who has been shortlisted by Cricket South Africa for the 2013 South African Cricketer of the Year award, is a man of numerous sporting talents.
Here's a list of sports AB has excelled in soon after her joined Afrikaanse Hoer Seunskool, a premier sporting institute in South Africa, at the age of 13.
> He was shortlisted for South Africa's junior national hockey team.
> He made it to the shortlist of South Africa's junior national football team.
> He was captain of South Africa's junior national rugby team.
> He holds six South African school swimming records.
> He holds the record in the 100m dash in South Africa's junior athletics.
> He was a member of South Africa's junior Davis Cup tennis team.
> He was South Africa's U-19 national badminton champion.
> Has a golf handicap of scratch or zero, which means he is a player whose average score for a round of golf is par or better.
> He is a recipient of the prestigious national medal from the Late Nelson Mandela for a science project.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

De Villiers, who has been shortlisted by Cricket South Africa for the 2013 South African Cricketer of the Year award, is a man of numerous sporting talents.
Here's a list of sports AB has excelled in soon after her joined Afrikaanse Hoer Seunskool, a premier sporting institute in South Africa, at the age of 13.
> He was shortlisted for South Africa's junior national hockey team.
> He made it to the shortlist of South Africa's junior national football team.
> He was captain of South Africa's junior national rugby team.
> He holds six South African school swimming records.
> He holds the record in the 100m dash in South Africa's junior athletics.
> He was a member of South Africa's junior Davis Cup tennis team.
> He was South Africa's U-19 national badminton champion.
> Has a golf handicap of scratch or zero, which means he is a player whose average score for a round of golf is par or better.
> He is a recipient of the prestigious national medal from the Late Nelson Mandela for a science project.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

De Villiers, who has been shortlisted by Cricket South Africa for the 2013 South African Cricketer of the Year award, is a man of numerous sporting talents.
Here's a list of sports AB has excelled in soon after her joined Afrikaanse Hoer Seunskool, a premier sporting institute in South Africa, at the age of 13.
> He was shortlisted for South Africa's junior national hockey team.
> He made it to the shortlist of South Africa's junior national football team.
> He was captain of South Africa's junior national rugby team.
> He holds six South African school swimming records.
> He holds the record in the 100m dash in South Africa's junior athletics.
> He was a member of South Africa's junior Davis Cup tennis team.
> He was South Africa's U-19 national badminton champion.
> Has a golf handicap of scratch or zero, which means he is a player whose average score for a round of golf is par or better.
> He is a recipient of the prestigious national medal from the Late Nelson Mandela for a science project.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

De Villiers, who has been shortlisted by Cricket South Africa for the 2013 South African Cricketer of the Year award, is a man of numerous sporting talents.
Here's a list of sports AB has excelled in soon after her joined Afrikaanse Hoer Seunskool, a premier sporting institute in South Africa, at the age of 13.
> He was shortlisted for South Africa's junior national hockey team.
> He made it to the shortlist of South Africa's junior national football team.
> He was captain of South Africa's junior national rugby team.
> He holds six South African school swimming records.
> He holds the record in the 100m dash in South Africa's junior athletics.
> He was a member of South Africa's junior Davis Cup tennis team.
> He was South Africa's U-19 national badminton champion.
> Has a golf handicap of scratch or zero, which means he is a player whose average score for a round of golf is par or better.
> He is a recipient of the prestigious national medal from the Late Nelson Mandela for a science project.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

This could come as a revelation to many, who simply know AB de Villiers as South Africa's star batsman and of course now Royal Challengers Bangalore's big-hitter in IPL-7.
- See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

AB de Villiers is a hockey, football, rugby, tennis and badminton champ! - See more at: http://www.mid-day.com/articles/ab-de-villiers-is-a-hockey-football-rugby-tennis-and-badminton-champ/15286163#sthash.EbdLaBjH.dpuf

The Love Story of Anjali and Sachin Tendulkar

 

Sachin Tendulkar has always been rather shy in discussing about his personal life in media. This might be the reason why many of us are unaware of his romantic love story with wife, Anjali.

From love at first sight to supporting each other through thick and thin, their relationship is interesting and inspiring. Here is Anjali and Sachin Tendulkar's love story.

Love at first sight

For Sachin and Anjali, it was love at first sight. The two of them first met at the Mumbai International Airport. Sachin was returning from his first International cricket tour in 1990 while Anjali was at the airport to receive her mother. They both took an instant liking to each other the first time they met. Later, the two met at a common friend’s place and got to know each other better.
Anjali Tendulkar- “I think what he liked about me was that I knew nothing about cricket when I first met him. I didn't even know who Sachin was.”

They start dating

When Sachin Tendulkar and Anjali first met, Anjali was practicing medicine while Sachin had just begun his cricketing career. Anjali being a dedicated student involved more in studies than cricket. Her knowledge about sports and particularly cricket was faint. Later, when they started dating, Anjali reveals that she made an effort to brush up her knowledge about the sport.


Anjali Tendulkar- “I've not known any other person in my life except Sachin. I understand him so well. So whether I am his girlfriend or his wife, it's the same thing, just an extension of that bond."

Their adventurous courtship days

Being as famous as he was from the beginning of his career, Sachin Tendulkar didn't get many uninterrupted dates with Anjali. While giving an interview to a local magazine, Anjali recalls an incident where the two of them had gone to see the movie Roja along with a few common friends. They were afraid that if people would recognise the ace cricketer, they would not be able to enjoy their day. So to avoid the attention, Sachin went to watch the movie in a disguise, wearing a false beard and specs. They entered the movie theatre a little late but during the interval of the film, his specs fell and the cricketer got surrounded by his fans. They had to leave the movie halfway.


Sachin Tendulkar- "Anjali actually taught me to be thankful for what the God has given me and for what the God has not given me.”

Their eternal bond

Anjali, daughter of the well-known industrialist Ashok Mehta married Sachin Tendulkar on May 24, 1995, after a five year long period of dating. They have been happily married for the last 19 years. Anjali Tendulkar is 6 years older than Sachin Tendulkar.  But the couple maintains that this age gap has never been a matter of concern in their relationship and instead has made them more committed and understanding towards each other.

Anjali's love for Sachin and their family

Anjali Tendulkar- “I could not be married to Sachin and also have a full-time career. It wasn't possible because he depends on me for almost everything. It was my decision. With Sachin not around and me with two kids at home, it wouldn't have been possible. I took a decision and I have never, ever regretted it."
Anjali Tendulkar left her career of being a successful pediatrician to live a happy married life with her husband. She maintains that it would have been difficult for her to maintain both at a time. The couple has two children, Sara Tendulkar and Arjun Tendulkar. She also says that she has no regrets whatsoever of leaving her profession as taking care of her husband and children gives her the greatest joy.


What's more? When Sachin Tendulkar is playing on field, everything else in the world ceases to exist for Anjali. When Sachin is playing for India, his superstar wife drops everything that she is doing and doesn't leave her spot in front of the television until the "Master Blaster" is out.
Anjali Tendulkar- "I don't eat. I don't answer phones. I don't drink. I don't even move. I don't reply to any sms until he's out."

Sachin's confessions

Sachin has always recognised the sacrifices that Anjali has made for him and his career. He has always acknowledged her as his biggest support system. And, that is why, he has always confided in her no matter how good or bad things went.
In his recently released autobiography, Playing It My Way, Sachin has confessed that it was Anjali who helped him deal with and get through the debacles that he faced as the captain of the Indian cricket team. Sachin has written, "I confided in Anjali that I feared there was nothing more that I could do to stem the tide of defeats.” He further added, "Anjali, as usual, managed to put things in perspective and assured me that things would surely get better in the months to come.”

Recommended Read: 4 Lessons Every Indian Husband Must Learn from Sachin Tendulkar
The love story of Sachin and Anjali Tendulkar is surely inspiring to a lot of young couples. They set an example of a strong and committed marriage. Being the lovable and down to earth person Sachin is, our cricket crazy nation of India wishes the couple- the best, always!

Note: Story source and quotes are taken from Anjali and Sachin's interviews published on various websites and magazines.

Food 10 Wonder Foods That Can Naturally Lower Your Blood Pressure

10 Wonder Foods That Can Naturally Lower Your Blood Pressure

 High blood pressure can be a big problem, especially if it is ignored. One of the best ways to lower blood pressure is to incorporate certain foods into your diet, along with lifestyle changes and increased exercise. Some of the best wonder foods that can naturally lower your blood pressure are:
Peas
These little emerald beauties are packed with vegetable protein which helps lower blood pressure. Peas also contain folic acid as well as other vitamins which offer overall cardiovascular support to the human body.
Celery
Celery makes your veins and heart function more appropriately. This helps to keep your blood pressure in check. It is believed that your blood pressure levels can be maintained by keeping your blood sugar levels balanced. Celery is a superfood that has tons of positive health benefits, including weight loss.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal may not be the tastiest thing on the menu, but it is definitely one of the healthiest. If you are averse to taking too much medication, increasing your oatmeal intake is a great option. Just one bowl of oatmeal in breakfast can considerably lower your blood pressure. Use an all-natural version of oatmeal and not the artificial flavored type, as it has tons of sugars, which end up raising your glucose levels. Keep it natural and add fresh fruit to your breakfast bowl for added flavor.
Papaya
Oranges have been heralded for their vitamin C content, but papaya surprisingly has more vitamin C per gram than an orange. In addition to this, papayas are also loaded with minerals and vitamins like potassium and amino acids, making it one of the healthiest fruits, and a great start to lower your blood pressure. Due to its potassium content, it also has several heart-healthy benefits.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains calcium, magnesium and potassium, which makes it a great choice to keep your high blood pressure in check. Be sure to choose a variety that has a low fat content. Consuming yogurt by itself may not manifest in many beneficial ways, but it can if you pair it with other healthy foods and lifestyle changes.
Kiwis
These fuzzy green fruits are a delightful combination of tangy and sweet, and have been known to keep blood pressure from soaring. Include at least 3 kiwis into your diet, every day. If you find it too tedious to eat as is, you could put them in a fruit salad or consume them with other foods that are rich in anti-oxidants.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the secret superfood that no one really paid attention to, until recently. Apart from their other health benefits, tomatoes are also known to keep blood pressure in check due to its lycopene content. Tomatoes are also known to help with the prevention of diabetes and to curb premature ageing of the skin. When you eat them, try not to overcook them or process them too much.
Green Beans
Green beans are known to have a direct impact on your blood pressure and create favorable conditions to achieve healthy levels. This is due to their vitamin C, potassium and fiber content. Add some sauteed green beans, dusted with pepper and salt to your dinner menu every day and watch its health benefits manifest itself.
Guava
Guavas are a wonder fruit that is known for its high potassium levels, which are known to be especially beneficial for lowering blood pressure levels and aiding weight loss. They also contain fiber that has a direct positive impact on your digestive system.
Blueberries
Blueberries are known for their antioxidant properties and keep your blood pressure levels low by knocking out free radicals in your system. Add a bowl of fresh blueberries to your breakfast menu every morning, or add some to your oatmeal for a power-packed start to the day. Try not to add any sugar, as that would negate their blood pressure lowering benefits and dilute the overall effect they have on the body.

Search Your Inbox To Unsubscribe From Unwanted Mails

 If you are not intelligent enough to uncheck the boxes that seek your permission to mail you newsletter, chances are that your mailbox is stuffed with unwanted marketing e-mails and reminders about anything and everything on this earth.

Well, for one, be smart enough to uncheck the boxes the next time you sign-up for anything; for the mails that you are already reporting, well here is how you can save some time.

Search the word Unsubscribe in your mailbox and every mail that has the option, just use the option and stop receiving the mails.

Sure this will take some time but we all like clean inboxes, don't we?

 Picture by Mahesh.

Move Before You're Ready: Get Started Without Being an "Expert"

All our lives, people have told us to learn everything about something before trying it in the "real world". Yet this fast paced world demands that we move before we know everything about a subject. Instead of waiting to change your career, for the perfect internship, or enrolling in more school, you should tweak your education so that you learn and apply skills quickly.

Many people spend their whole lives waiting to be ready. For us, ready often becomes moreof an excuse than a prerequisite.
For example, you don't need a certificate to tell you that you're a design pro. Karen X. Cheng learned design in six months while working full-time. She made it work by moving before she thought she was "ready," and so can you.

Focus on Just-In-Time Learning, Not Just-In-Case Learning

There are two types of learning: you perform "just-in-time" learning when you acquire information just before it is needed (e.g., on-the-job training). In contrast, you perform "just-in-case" learning when you acquire information far in advance of when you need it (e.g., traditional schooling). We only use a small portion of the just-in-case knowledge we acquire in school for our day-to-day work. This type of just-in-case learning is not very effective.
You'll quickly see the importance of just-in-time learning and be forced to apply it to the real world. Or, you'll fail, and learn the hard way. Entrepreneur and angel investor Dan Martell writes on his blog:

Focus on learning and getting the right advice in near-real time. Trying to anticipate the skills and information you will need to acquire months before you actually need it can result in a lot of wasted time.

You'll still need a bit of just-in-case learning, though. Specifically, you'll need to understand the tools or techniques necessary to achieve certain results. As math professor John Cook explains in an earlier article on All in on one site:

On the other hand, you need to know what's available, even if you're only going to learn the details just in time. You can't say "I need to learn about version control system now" if you don't even know what version control is. You need to have a survey knowledge of technology just in case. You can learn APIs just in time. But there's a big gray area in between where it's hard to know what is worthwhile to learn and when.

The key to balancing just-in-case and just-in-time learning is ruthless prioritization and quick deadlines.

Figure Out Your Minimum Effective Dose

A chinese scholar understands over 20,000 Chinese characters, but you only need to understand 1,000 to be literate. The most frequently used 200 characters will allow you to understand 40% of basic literature (enough to read signs, restaurant menus, and basic newspapers).
This is what author Tim Ferriss calls the "Minimum Effective Dose," or MED. It's the smallest dose that will produce a desired outcome. For example, approximately 1,000 words will make you conversational in a language. This concept applies to all sorts of desired outcomes.
Another example: if you've decided to be a blogger, you just need to know how to set up a blog on a platform like WordPress, create a post, and publish it. You can learn how to change the theme, how to gain attention, SEO, and all those other skills later.

Prioritize Depth Over Breadth

You will be tempted to dabble in everything. Don't. Stay focused on the minimum effective dose for a specific outcome before you explore other options. Get really good at one thing before moving on to other skills. As author Josh Waitzkin explains in The Art of Learning:

It would be absurd to try to teach a new figure skater the principle of relaxation on the ice by launching straight into triple axels. She should begin with the fundamentals of gliding along the ice, turning, and skating backwards with deepening relaxation. Then, step by step, more and more complicated maneuvers can be absorbed, while she maintains the sense of ease that was initially experienced within the simplest skill set.

But don't get ahead of yourself. Stay focused on the immediate desired outcome and the skills required to achieve it.

Connect with Others to Accelerate Learning

People who have achieved your goals can be catalysts to your learning. You can save time and learn from their mistakes. You can take a deeper dive into what they do, and understand the habits and skills that were key to their success. Author Robert Green writes in Mastery:

The people in your field, in your immediate circle, are like worlds unto themselves - their stories and viewpoints will naturally expand your horizons and build up your social skills. Mingle with as many different types of people as possible. Those circles will slowly widen.

Logistically speaking, it's possible to connect with anyone these days. (If you want to find an email address quickly, try previously mentioned Norbert.) Naturally, the other person has to want to help. If they do, creating a relationship with them can be valuable to your growth.
If you choose someone who isn't busy (e.g., retirees), they're more likely to reply. On the other hand, if you're trying to connect with someone who's busy in the field right now, you could learn about their skills and techniques through one of their close associates. In both cases, you should bring some value to the table. Tim Ferriss elaborates in The 4 Hour Body:

"Do me a favor" is not a compelling pitch. The proposed interview should somehow benefit your contact.
The path of least resistance is to freelance write for a blog, newsletter, or local newspaper and do a piece on this person and his/her methods, or to quote him/her on a related topic as an expert ("Expert Predictions for Winter Olympics," for instance). Once you're in the door, ask your expert all the questions you'd like. Are you terrible at writing? No problem. Make it a Q&A format and simply print the relevant questions and answers.

Once you've connected with them and set up a conversation or interview, your challenge will be to make a good first impression. If it's just over email, you should ask pointed questions that are easy to answer. Do research before you get in touch with them (e.g., reading interviews or listening to podcasts they've participated in) so you don't ask them about something you should've known. Nothing rubs people the wrong way like lazy questions.
At a previous job, my editor gave me a crucial piece of advice that improved my knowledge acquisition: he recommended that I ask, "How?", or "Can you give an example of that?" much more frequently during interviews. He said that he did this at least a dozen times in an interview. These real-world, or even hypothetical, examples help us learn much more quickly and remember things more effectively. (Thanks Sean!)
If you develop your relationships carefully enough, you'll find that some of these people can become your mentors.

Explore a Real-Life Example

A little less than a year ago, I saw something that I really wanted to make: the Pharrell article in Complex Magazine. The interactive elements completely caught my eye and regularly renewed my attention. What if readers could interact with my articles like that? I could tell stories in a much more immersive way.
At the time, I knew absolutely nothing about coding, and had little experience with web design. I was looking into the mother of all interactive articles, Snow Fall, and discovered the term "Parallax" (basically, when one layer scrolls at a different rate than another one).
I knew I didn't have to become great at front end web design or graphic design (depth over breadth), I just needed to make those pages with parallax and scrolling effects really well. I already knew how to write case studies and stories, so I prioritized my search for discovering the minimum effective dosage of coding. I had no idea what that specifically looked like.
I talked to my friend, a software developer, and he told me about a library called Skrollr. Up until this point, I hadn't even thought of building on top of a library or framework. That saved me no less than a dozen hours in research. I can't emphasize the power of connecting with others to accelerate learning enough. (Thanks Jon!)
Building on that just-in-case information, I could search around for "Skrollr parallax tutorials". There was one with a template, so I downloaded it and started tinkering with it (just-in-time learning). Another friend showed me Anvil, and I started messing around with the elements of that template locally. (Thanks Dami!) Eventually, I built a webpage for one of my favorite musicians. I uploaded it to my own website and shared the URL with him via email. He liked the design and we tweaked it to match his branding. He then published it on his website. (Sadly, we had to remove the Parallax element from it because Skrollr didn't play friendly with mobile at the time.) But I got a chance to work with a really interesting person and learn about web design, the entertainment industry, and public relations.

Skip the Artificial Prerequisite

Remember, dramatic change isn't a prerequisite for picking up a new skill you're curious about. It can be much more gradual.
As you master these skills one by one, you'll find that more doors open. Instead of waiting for opportunities, you can create more and more of them.
There are situations that warrant schooling. For example, if you find that you really enjoy graphic design but are looking to take things to the next level, or if you're in a field that demands credibility, then school may be a good option.
But in other situations, done is better than perfect. Before dropping tens of thousands of dollars in tuition, I'd suggest making these small changes first and picking up these skills for free. Not only will it save you money and frustration, it will also be a low-commitment way to verify whether you really like what you think you do.

 

How to Debug Your Brain and Build Better Habits

 

Wouldn't it be great if you could debug your brain as though it were bad code? We might not be able to reprogram ourselves, but we can use the principles of debugging to help ourselves build better habits. Here's how to debug your brain.

Our brains are the most bug ridden pieces of junk since Internet Explorer. To replicate one common bug, try telling your brain to "go to the gym." Most brains will respond by updating their Facebook status and watching cat videos. This is not the desired behavior.

Fortunately I've developed a fix. Let me just explain how the whole human brain works first.

This Code Is a Mess

Looking at our brain, it's clear it was developed by a team of ten thousand monkeys sitting at keyboards. You know, like Windows 8.
The brain is event-driven, which is to say it does almost nothing until an event occurs, and then it responds to the event. Your hand gets hot, you pull it back. Your stomach rumbles, you look for food.

Unfortunately there are a lot of events. There are events for shiny objects coming into view, or for scary monsters, and all of these events are firing in our brain and competing for our limited processing ability.
It's as if the developers were too late to realize this would leave us bouncing between distractions like a cat chasing a laser pointer, and so they hacked in last-minute a priority system.

Unfortunately, our priority system isn't that great; the default priority for sitting down is higher than the priority for working out.

But Wait! We're Smarter Than-Ooh, a Squirrel

Don't we have some kind of clever, conscious brain though? The part that does math and plays chess and copies Sally's homework?
Well, yes. But that part is event driven too, which is to say it's not on all the time. It turns out our brains were optimized for energy efficiency, and they only turn on their CPU (Consciousness Processing Unit) when absolutely necessary. If you've ever realized you've been driving for an hour and hadn't even noticed, that was your consciousness going into Standby Mode.
It's your consciousness that tells you to exercise, even if you don't want to, because it can see the long term benefits are greater than the short term pain. And when it's in control, you do so. But consciousness demands a lot of power. When your mental battery is low, it's easily overpowered out by higher priorities, like playing Hearthstone or checking Twitter.

The Bug Fix

We're going to add a new event of our own to fix things. Non-programmers might call this a "habit."
Our new event is triggered by a transition. For example, if you wake up, that's a transition. Arrive at your desk-that's a transition. Arrive home-that's a transition.
It's at the transition that our behavior is most likely to be hijacked by the highest priority event that happens to be in our brain at the time. If you've arrived home, chances are that event is "I'm knackered" and you'll fall onto the sofa. We need to change that. Here's your new event:

Don't worry if you're not fluent in Brain Programming (B#)-just remember three words: "No. Right. Now." Let's break it down.

1. "No"

Firstly, we need to interrupt all other events. There's a trick for overpowering mental distractions, and that's to make your intention insanely simple. "No" is about as simple an intention as you can get.
No means simply reject everything. If you want to check Facebook, the answer is no. If someone is asking you if you have five minutes, the answer is no. If this will piss someone off, it's still no.
Don't complicate this with exceptions. Exceptions will happen anyway-if your house is on fire, primal instincts will take over. But 99.9% of the time, in our comfortable modern lives, the greatest danger to you is that you live by your outdated survival impulses. Start by saying no to everything.
You might worry that by declining everyone and everything you'll become some kind of sociopathic robot. You'll still have time for those distractions later. Tell people that. The trick is to get done what matters first.

2. "Right"

Now ask yourself what is the one "right" thing you should be doing now. I did not say three things. There can be only one.

You shouldn't need to think about this much, because your conscious brain should already have decided for you the night before: it's usually the one thing you want yourself to do all the time, but never find time for.
A crucial distinction here is importance versus urgency. The most important things in life-like eating healthy-are rarely urgent. And our brain's buggy events are great at dealing with urgent things-like the phone ringing-all by themselves. So when given the choice, choose importance over urgency. It makes the most difference in the long run.

3. "Now"

Start doing the right thing immediately. Not after you've checked your email- immediately. Don't give yourself time to even think about it, just start. Starting is always the hardest part; the very inertia which makes something hard to start can make it equally hard to stop.
This simple fix works because when you transition from one place to another, your brain is unusually receptive to events. It needs to decide on a new course of action, and once it chooses one it tends to stick to it.
Unfortunately we tend to make stupid decisions at transitions, because we don't think about them:

Interrupt your transitions with the right choices, and you'll find yourself doing what matters far, far more often:

Just remember: "No. Right. Now." Three short words to program a life-changing habit.
As for how you fix Windows 8, I have no idea....