by Richard L. Weaver II
“It’s a spectacle of gross and glorious excess that glitters with undeliverable promise,” writes Phil Reisman at LoHud.com, in an essay entitled, “Reisman ponders the meaning of the Super Bowl.” Reisman continues, “The Super Bowl burns with promise and quickly fizzles out, and that is a distinctly American phenomenon. Oddly, it is even a beautiful thing.”
The spectacle of gross and glorious excess of the game itself barely exceeds the hype and pre-game brouhaha. Look at the pre-game advertising, the sports writers’ predictions, the betting (more on that in a moment), the food preparation, and all the news outlets worldwide flocking to the venue to report the game’s happenings. It has been reported that one quarter of the tickets for the 2009 Super Bowl will be priced at $1,000.00 each. That’s glorious excess!
You’ve got to love it! There is nothing like it in the world. As Gail Leino writes in her essay, at ezinearticles.com, “Superbowl Sunday Party,” “This is the great American tradition of celebrating the greatness of football!” Robert Paul Reyes, writing for the American Chronicle, January 31, 2006, in an essay entitled, “The wretched excess of the Super Bowl,” writes, “The Super Bowl transcends sports, it is a celebration of American power. It’s an ‘in your face’ glorification of American supremacy.”
Reyes, in the essay just referred to about its wretched excess, says, “Anything that happens during the Super Bowl is magnified beyond comprehension.”
The Super Bowl represents excess in the extreme. It is “the most-watched U.S. television broadcast of the year, and has become likened to a de facto U.S. national holiday,” it says at Wikipedia. That alone doesn’t merit “excess” status, but, according to Wikipedia, “Super Bowl Sunday is the second-largest U.S. food consumption day, following Thanksgiving.” For some, the Super Bowl is dedicated to food and drink. That's excess.
Last year’s (2008) upset victory by the New York Giants over the New England Patriots was watched by a record 97.5 million Americans — “marking the biggest TV audience in Super Bowl history and the second most-watched U.S. telecast ever,” according to Paul Thomasch writing for the New York Times. Thomasch says, “The number of viewers watching the National Football League championship game was surpassed only by the 106 million who saw the series finale of “M*A*S*H” in February 1983, according to data issued ... by Nielsen Media Research.”
Let’s examine further excesses. Advertisers for the 2007 game paid an average of $2.7 million for a 30-second spot. Some people watch the game just to see the commercials. The advertisements are truly the subject of anticipation and speculation. Super Bowl commercials received in excess of 15 million additional views online. In the past 20 years, Super Bowl ads have translated into $1.84 billion of network sales from over 200 different advertisers, according to TNS Media Intelligence.
According to TNS MI (via MarketingCharts), the top five Super Bowl advertisers of the past 20 years (1988-2007) have spent $659 million on advertising during the game. This accounts for 36 percent of total advertising dollars spent in the game. Anheuser Busch and Pepsico have appeared in every game during this period, and they lead the pack. General Motors, Time Warner, and Walt Disney are next.
There is a related excess as well. The Super Bowl seems to be the American holiday of consumerism. The motto is “buy, buy, buy, and we’ll try to sell you more.” According to “The Super Bowl, Economics, and You,” “Sales of TVs spike around the Super Bowl.” From The New Mexico Business Weekly (January 29, 2008) , in an essay entitled, “Super Bowl viewers will spend $10B on TVs furniture,” it says, “Consumers plan to nearly double what they spent last year on televisions and furniture in anticipation of the big day....Consumers plan to buy nearly 4 million televisions....Nearly 2 million pieces of furniture will be sold....158 million people ... [will] spend an average of $59.90 on related merchandise, making expected total spending around $9.5 billion.”
Even some of the ancillary Super Bowl items reveal excess. For example, the cost of Super Bowl Rings. The league pays for up to 150 rings at $5,000 per ring (plus adjustments for increases in gold and diamonds). That’s $750,000.00-plus, just for the rings. Also, the league pays for 150 pieces of jewelry for the losing team as well, and these pieces cost about half the price set for the Super Bowl ring — another $375,000.00. That’s over a million dollars just for Super Bowl jewelry.
Richard Sandomir, in his essay, “Super Bowl Excess for a Sturdy Coffee Table,” discusses yet another excess. His essay is printed in the New York Times, January 17, 2006. Sandomir writes that the book that chronicles the history of the Super Bowl will weigh 85 pounds, contain nearly 2,000 images (out of two million examined), and 500,000 words. The cost of the book is $4,000.00 for the first 19,600 copies and $25,000 for the 400 M.V.P. autographed copies. How big is the book? It measures nearly two feet long on all sides, and it is six inches thick. That’s excess!
Most people know about the excess of gambling. At Wikianswers.com, it states that, “Over 10 billion dollars is predicted to be risked on Super Bowl XLII by more than 200 million people around the world. The Super Bowl is the biggest one-day sports betting event of every year.” At Bookmaker.com, it says, “Super Bowl betting records prove that this activity is a huge moneymaking deal both for sportsbooks and sports bettors all around the world. And now, betting on the Super Bowl can be done with a wide variety of options, including office pools, proposition bets, handicapping contests and many more.”
During the game, of course, the excess continues. It is covered by a minimum of 36 cameras and 60 microphones, and there are over 3,000 credited reporters working at the game. Sandomir calls the Super Bowl “an orgiastic eruption of football, cholesterol, [and] sexagenarian rock stars.” At Wikipedia, there is an entry entitled, “Super Bowl halftime shows, which states, “In the United States, the halftime show for the Super Bowl is a highlight of the event, can cost millions to stage, and employ hundreds. It often serves as a crossover from pop culture.” Shows range from performance stunts, to controversy, and even pure musicianship, and it costs sponsors between 12 and 15 million dollars to sponsor a halftime show. In 2008, the halftime show was watched by close to 150 million people.
Greg Easterbook,in a New York Times essay, February 6, 2005, “A Super (Bowl) Break; Don’t Analyze That: A Day of Excess Won’t Kill Us,” says, “The Super Bowl is outsized, preposterous, excessive — which is the great thing about it. This is also why attempts to find hidden meaning in the Super Bowl are doomed to futility. The game has no vast social significance. The Super Bowl is just a big, overdone party” — all American, all excess. Nothing exceeds like excess.
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At msnbc, the essay is called, “Super Bowl coverage turns to ‘Idol’ for ratings: Seacrest, Abdul, Sparks lend star power; Petty delivers classic halftime act,” February 3, 2008, and it details the halftime extravaganza at the 2008 Super Bowl.
James T. O’Brien, just a sophomore journalism student on January 28, 2004, writing for the North Texas Daily, has put the Super Bowl into proper perspective in his life in his essay, “Super Bowl: better than Christmas??” The subtext reads: “Now that James O'Brien is grown, kiddie holidays like Christmas and Easter have lost their magic and appeal for him. Now Super Bowl Sunday has become one of his new favorites.” Read this essay and enjoy.
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Copyright 2009 - And Then Some Publishing L.L.C.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
SMOERs: Words of Wisdom
As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live.
---Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Day #32 - Trust yourself, in the delightful day-to-day guide, Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules! (SMOERs): Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living, compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. Once you read just one day, you, too, will want s'more!
---Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Day #32 - Trust yourself, in the delightful day-to-day guide, Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules! (SMOERs): Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living, compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. Once you read just one day, you, too, will want s'more!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
And Then Some News
Just a reminder: Wednesday's are the day for SMOERs. Yep, it's that delicious treat of graham crackers, a scrumptious marshmallow, and melting, oozing chocolate that delights the palate and captivates the senses. SMOERs supplies a words-of-wisdom-treat every week that you can sink your teeth into and enjoy every charming and delectable morsel.
These weekly, mouthwatering treats come from our upcoming book, SMOERs - your day-to-day motivational guide. The full title of SMOERs is: Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules!: Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living. It is compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. After reading just one day of SMOERs we know you will want s'more!
Thursday’s essay, “The Super Bowl: All American - All Excess!,” is is my second essay that discusses the Super Bowl. The first was written last year. The current essay discusses many of the different excesses surrounding this event.
Share your link. Have you written anything on the Super Bowl? How about material on Super Bowl parties, celebrations, participation, and other related experiences? Do you have friends or family members who have Super Bowl experiences? Have you written about them? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from andthensomeworks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
The Super Bowl: All American - All Excess!
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
You’ve got to love it! There is nothing like it in the world. As Gail Leino writes in her essay, at ezinearticles.com, “Superbowl Sunday Party,” “This is the great American tradition of celebrating the greatness of football!” Robert Paul Reyes, writing for the American Chronicle), January 31, 2006, in an essay entitled, “The wretched excess of the Super Bowl,” writes, “The Super Bowl transcends sports, it is a celebration of American power. It’s an ‘in your face’ glorification of American supremacy.”
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
These weekly, mouthwatering treats come from our upcoming book, SMOERs - your day-to-day motivational guide. The full title of SMOERs is: Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules!: Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living. It is compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. After reading just one day of SMOERs we know you will want s'more!
Thursday’s essay, “The Super Bowl: All American - All Excess!,” is is my second essay that discusses the Super Bowl. The first was written last year. The current essay discusses many of the different excesses surrounding this event.
Share your link. Have you written anything on the Super Bowl? How about material on Super Bowl parties, celebrations, participation, and other related experiences? Do you have friends or family members who have Super Bowl experiences? Have you written about them? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from andthensomeworks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
The Super Bowl: All American - All Excess!
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
You’ve got to love it! There is nothing like it in the world. As Gail Leino writes in her essay, at ezinearticles.com, “Superbowl Sunday Party,” “This is the great American tradition of celebrating the greatness of football!” Robert Paul Reyes, writing for the American Chronicle), January 31, 2006, in an essay entitled, “The wretched excess of the Super Bowl,” writes, “The Super Bowl transcends sports, it is a celebration of American power. It’s an ‘in your face’ glorification of American supremacy.”
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Do you want to be a writer?
by Richard L. Weaver II
There are some basic elements of writing that may not be present for all writers (there are always exceptions), but it is precisely these elements that make writing easier and more comfortable. You need to begin with one overriding and important focus: read widely, read broadly, and read often. Ease and comfort in writing often directly results from your ease and comfort in reading. When you like to read, it is more likely that you will like to write.
The earlier you begin writing, the better. This (an early start) gives you practice, of course, but often an interest in writing begins in school, and it is in school where you can enjoy the luxury of informed instruction, guidance, pointers, tips, hints, and directions. Perhaps more important in beginning early is the establishment of a habit of writing. This is where habits start.
A second suggestion is to pursue every opportunity to write. Never back away from assignments, home work, or extra credit work that causes, forces, or encourages you to write. Classes where writing is part of the syllabus, and teachers known to encourage writing, should be targets for you. These opportunities often are the point of departure in the formation of ambitions, aspirations, wishes, dreams, and hopes.
Third, take all the English courses you can. It doesn’t matter if it is a course in grammar, literature, or creative writing. These courses often provide a balance of the four skills: reading, speaking, listening, and writing. All assistance in improving your grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation will offer worthwhile information and develop useful and enduring skills.
The fourth suggestion is to read and write in your spare (free) time. The easier reading and writing becomes, the more you will look forward to doing it. And the more natural the effort, the more you’ll pursue it. The primary problem with this suggestion is all the other things that occupy your time and your interest. More on this problem in a moment.
The fifth suggestion is to keep a daily diary, a daily journal, or a daily blog. What a daily diary, journal, or blog does is give you a regular, scheduled prompt that keeps you writing. It doesn’t matter what your daily notes consist of since it is the daily act of writing that’s important. If you can write more than simply a catalog or list of what you did or did not accomplish each day that is good. When you can reflect on life, consider your circumstances, contemplate your wishes and dreams, give some thought to your plans and hopes, and even give some consideration to what’s happening in the news, you are expanding your horizons, enlarging your outlook, broadening your viewpoint, increasing your perspective, thinking, and giving yourself additional opportunities to write.
The sixth suggestion is to gather the material together that will best support your writing. A quiet place, a word processor (computer), pens, pencils, paper, and note paper you can carry with you, all help. Ideas or topics come to you at all times during the day and night, and to have the tools necessary and at hand to record those ideas and topics will help. Often, those ideas or topics either never return or return in a new and different form, so don’t miss them when they first arrive. Also, purchase a copy of Strunk and White’s, Elements of Style. Read it, and use it.
Not enough can be said about using a computer. Having spell-check, a dictionary, and a thesaurus at your fingertips is a valuable resource. Even more important is having search engines which yield word (or idea) definitions, etymologies, and interpretations. To have the history and background of ideas, the opinions and testimony of experts, and facts and statistics to support ideas is invaluable. All of these are what make writing solid. They allow writers to fill in the gaps, expose faults, resolve differences, detect omissions, present contrasts, and describe details they would otherwise miss.
Another function of the Internet is that it provides writers many opportunities to read interesting and divergent material. The emphasis here is on “opportunities to read,” because anyone who wants to be a writer must continually read.
The seventh element for writers is to carve out time to write. Time to write means time alone, time without distractions, time to think, time to perfect, hone, and polish ideas. Good writing takes time, and time, in a technology-driven society is not only precious, it is a rare commodity. I referred to this element when discussing the fourth suggestion regarding writing in your spare time.
Technology of all sorts dominates our lives — every available moment if you let it. That is why writing requires self-discipline and sacrifice. Just knowing this may well turn away those who enjoy surfing the Internet, text-messaging or e-mailing their friends, playing video games, using cell phones, watching DVDs, and being connected to others through social networking (i.e., Facebook, MySpace, and hundreds of others.)
The eighth element is to find people (e.g. friends or family members) who are willing to critique and evaluate your writing. Remember, if you are a writer, you are writing for a broader audience than just yourself. Never turn down opportunities to have others examine and comment upon your ideas and writing. Whether you accept their observations and judgment, of course, is up to you; however, you should be aware that objectivity about your own work is unlikely (maybe impossible). Although many writers think they can be their own editors, and to some extent they can, it is impossible to see some errors (maybe even faulty reasoning) because you can’t and don’t see them. Others often can.
The ninth element is, according to Judy Reeves, “hang out with other writers. Go to readings and book signings, open mikes. Communicate with other writers. . . . Sign up for workshops and conferences. Get in a group.”
When it comes to the bottom line, it can be framed in a question: How badly do you want to be a writer? Are you willing to make the sacrifices? Becoming a writer doesn’t happen magically when, one day, you just sit down at the computer and you discover yourself hooked-up with a writing wizard with words flowing from your mind to the keyboard and, in some miraculous fashion appearing on the screen in front of you in a truly supernatural manner. And there you are, an exceptional artist, with incredible language, amazing readers around the world with your staggering observations, breathtaking insights, fabulous opinions, and mesmerizing stories. Such adeptness, if it occurs at all, comes as a result of the elements and methods discussed in this essay. These mind-boggling ends follow from serious commitment, conscientiousness, and rigorous and thorough preparation — painstaking means. To think otherwise is pure fantasy.
Judy Reeves has written a beautiful essay, “How to become a writer who writes: Tips for writers and writing groups,” and she claims writers write because writing is in their hearts and souls and DNA. Her first suggestion is to claim yourself a writer and her second is to make time to write, then write. This is good information for prospective writers.
At Howtodothings.com, Sonya Carmichael Jones has an essay entitled, “How to become a writer.” Her suggestions are to assess your writing skills, investigate writing options, identify your passion, continue to learn, and network and prospect. This is a basic, nuts-and-bolts essay to be used as a started site.
© Copyright 2009 - And Then Some Publishing LLC
There are some basic elements of writing that may not be present for all writers (there are always exceptions), but it is precisely these elements that make writing easier and more comfortable. You need to begin with one overriding and important focus: read widely, read broadly, and read often. Ease and comfort in writing often directly results from your ease and comfort in reading. When you like to read, it is more likely that you will like to write.
The earlier you begin writing, the better. This (an early start) gives you practice, of course, but often an interest in writing begins in school, and it is in school where you can enjoy the luxury of informed instruction, guidance, pointers, tips, hints, and directions. Perhaps more important in beginning early is the establishment of a habit of writing. This is where habits start.
A second suggestion is to pursue every opportunity to write. Never back away from assignments, home work, or extra credit work that causes, forces, or encourages you to write. Classes where writing is part of the syllabus, and teachers known to encourage writing, should be targets for you. These opportunities often are the point of departure in the formation of ambitions, aspirations, wishes, dreams, and hopes.
Third, take all the English courses you can. It doesn’t matter if it is a course in grammar, literature, or creative writing. These courses often provide a balance of the four skills: reading, speaking, listening, and writing. All assistance in improving your grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation will offer worthwhile information and develop useful and enduring skills.
The fourth suggestion is to read and write in your spare (free) time. The easier reading and writing becomes, the more you will look forward to doing it. And the more natural the effort, the more you’ll pursue it. The primary problem with this suggestion is all the other things that occupy your time and your interest. More on this problem in a moment.
The fifth suggestion is to keep a daily diary, a daily journal, or a daily blog. What a daily diary, journal, or blog does is give you a regular, scheduled prompt that keeps you writing. It doesn’t matter what your daily notes consist of since it is the daily act of writing that’s important. If you can write more than simply a catalog or list of what you did or did not accomplish each day that is good. When you can reflect on life, consider your circumstances, contemplate your wishes and dreams, give some thought to your plans and hopes, and even give some consideration to what’s happening in the news, you are expanding your horizons, enlarging your outlook, broadening your viewpoint, increasing your perspective, thinking, and giving yourself additional opportunities to write.
The sixth suggestion is to gather the material together that will best support your writing. A quiet place, a word processor (computer), pens, pencils, paper, and note paper you can carry with you, all help. Ideas or topics come to you at all times during the day and night, and to have the tools necessary and at hand to record those ideas and topics will help. Often, those ideas or topics either never return or return in a new and different form, so don’t miss them when they first arrive. Also, purchase a copy of Strunk and White’s, Elements of Style. Read it, and use it.
Not enough can be said about using a computer. Having spell-check, a dictionary, and a thesaurus at your fingertips is a valuable resource. Even more important is having search engines which yield word (or idea) definitions, etymologies, and interpretations. To have the history and background of ideas, the opinions and testimony of experts, and facts and statistics to support ideas is invaluable. All of these are what make writing solid. They allow writers to fill in the gaps, expose faults, resolve differences, detect omissions, present contrasts, and describe details they would otherwise miss.
Another function of the Internet is that it provides writers many opportunities to read interesting and divergent material. The emphasis here is on “opportunities to read,” because anyone who wants to be a writer must continually read.
The seventh element for writers is to carve out time to write. Time to write means time alone, time without distractions, time to think, time to perfect, hone, and polish ideas. Good writing takes time, and time, in a technology-driven society is not only precious, it is a rare commodity. I referred to this element when discussing the fourth suggestion regarding writing in your spare time.
Technology of all sorts dominates our lives — every available moment if you let it. That is why writing requires self-discipline and sacrifice. Just knowing this may well turn away those who enjoy surfing the Internet, text-messaging or e-mailing their friends, playing video games, using cell phones, watching DVDs, and being connected to others through social networking (i.e., Facebook, MySpace, and hundreds of others.)
The eighth element is to find people (e.g. friends or family members) who are willing to critique and evaluate your writing. Remember, if you are a writer, you are writing for a broader audience than just yourself. Never turn down opportunities to have others examine and comment upon your ideas and writing. Whether you accept their observations and judgment, of course, is up to you; however, you should be aware that objectivity about your own work is unlikely (maybe impossible). Although many writers think they can be their own editors, and to some extent they can, it is impossible to see some errors (maybe even faulty reasoning) because you can’t and don’t see them. Others often can.
The ninth element is, according to Judy Reeves, “hang out with other writers. Go to readings and book signings, open mikes. Communicate with other writers. . . . Sign up for workshops and conferences. Get in a group.”
When it comes to the bottom line, it can be framed in a question: How badly do you want to be a writer? Are you willing to make the sacrifices? Becoming a writer doesn’t happen magically when, one day, you just sit down at the computer and you discover yourself hooked-up with a writing wizard with words flowing from your mind to the keyboard and, in some miraculous fashion appearing on the screen in front of you in a truly supernatural manner. And there you are, an exceptional artist, with incredible language, amazing readers around the world with your staggering observations, breathtaking insights, fabulous opinions, and mesmerizing stories. Such adeptness, if it occurs at all, comes as a result of the elements and methods discussed in this essay. These mind-boggling ends follow from serious commitment, conscientiousness, and rigorous and thorough preparation — painstaking means. To think otherwise is pure fantasy.
Judy Reeves has written a beautiful essay, “How to become a writer who writes: Tips for writers and writing groups,” and she claims writers write because writing is in their hearts and souls and DNA. Her first suggestion is to claim yourself a writer and her second is to make time to write, then write. This is good information for prospective writers.
At Howtodothings.com, Sonya Carmichael Jones has an essay entitled, “How to become a writer.” Her suggestions are to assess your writing skills, investigate writing options, identify your passion, continue to learn, and network and prospect. This is a basic, nuts-and-bolts essay to be used as a started site.
© Copyright 2009 - And Then Some Publishing LLC
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SMOERs: Words of Wisdom
What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.
---Anonymous
Day #30 - Alter your attitude, in the delightful day-to-day guide, Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules! (SMOERs): Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living, compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. Once you read just one day, you, too, will want s'more!
---Anonymous
Day #30 - Alter your attitude, in the delightful day-to-day guide, Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules! (SMOERs): Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living, compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. Once you read just one day, you, too, will want s'more!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
And Then Some News
Wednesday's are the day for SMOERs. Yep, it's that delicious treat of graham crackers, a scrumptious marshmallow, and melting, oozing chocolate that delights the palate and captivates the senses. SMOERs supplies a words-of-wisdom-treat every week that you can sink your teeth into and enjoy every charming and delectable morsel.
These weekly, mouthwatering treats come from our upcoming book, SMOERs - your day-to-day motivational guide. The full title of SMOERs is: Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules!: Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living. It is compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. After reading just one day of SMOERs we know you will want s'more!
From Richard L. Weaver II:
This week I joined Facebook and established a full profile. The purpose of this new adventure is to broaden the audience for my written work: essays, news, and books --- in addition to enlarging the opportunities for interested parties to respond and comment. If you have a Facebook account and wish to become "a friend," please make the request. I would be happy to have you onboard as "a friend" on Facebook.
Find me on Facebook by searching: Richard L. Weaver
Check out my videos and posts from previous blogs. I'm new to Facebook. It may take some time to respond to comments, answer the "Inbox," and click the right buttons. As I stated above, this is a new adventure, and I thank you, in advance, for being patient.
Thursday’s essay, “Do you want to be a writer?,” is an essay that discusses, in a clear and specific manner, the steps readers need to take if they want to be a writer..
Share your link. Have you written anything on writing? How about material on writing an essay, a story, a book, or a blog? Do you have friends or family members who are writers? Have you written about them? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from AndThenSomeWorks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
Do you want to be a writer?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
There are some basic elements of writing that may not be present for all writers (there are always exceptions), but it is precisely these elements that make writing easier and more comfortable. You need to begin with one overriding and important focus: read widely, read broadly, and read often. Ease and comfort in writing often directly results from your ease and comfort in reading. When you like to read, it is more likely that you will like to write.
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
These weekly, mouthwatering treats come from our upcoming book, SMOERs - your day-to-day motivational guide. The full title of SMOERs is: Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules!: Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living. It is compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily reminders and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009. After reading just one day of SMOERs we know you will want s'more!
From Richard L. Weaver II:
This week I joined Facebook and established a full profile. The purpose of this new adventure is to broaden the audience for my written work: essays, news, and books --- in addition to enlarging the opportunities for interested parties to respond and comment. If you have a Facebook account and wish to become "a friend," please make the request. I would be happy to have you onboard as "a friend" on Facebook.
Find me on Facebook by searching: Richard L. Weaver
Check out my videos and posts from previous blogs. I'm new to Facebook. It may take some time to respond to comments, answer the "Inbox," and click the right buttons. As I stated above, this is a new adventure, and I thank you, in advance, for being patient.
Thursday’s essay, “Do you want to be a writer?,” is an essay that discusses, in a clear and specific manner, the steps readers need to take if they want to be a writer..
Share your link. Have you written anything on writing? How about material on writing an essay, a story, a book, or a blog? Do you have friends or family members who are writers? Have you written about them? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from AndThenSomeWorks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
Do you want to be a writer?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
There are some basic elements of writing that may not be present for all writers (there are always exceptions), but it is precisely these elements that make writing easier and more comfortable. You need to begin with one overriding and important focus: read widely, read broadly, and read often. Ease and comfort in writing often directly results from your ease and comfort in reading. When you like to read, it is more likely that you will like to write.
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
How do you develop a sense of humor?
by Richard L. Weaver II
I’ve always admired people who can tell a joke. Just remembering all the details to make the joke storyline accurate and interesting has been difficult for me. I enjoy watching comedians, and I’ve always been amazed at how they derive humor from common, everyday lifetime events. It just seems so easy and natural. I’ve also harbored admiration for those who are the life of a party. People gather around them just to hear them share stories, anecdotes, delightful trivia, and humorous asides. These are the people who everyone wants to sit by, talk to, and have around. Why can’t I be more like them?
It is clear from casual observation that having a sense of humor can have a positive effect on your life. Think about it. A sense of humor is good for your health. Also, it enlivens relationships, relieves stress, helps you deal with pain and discomfort, enriches your creativity, encourages positive thinking, helps people get acquainted, enhances your ability to solve problems, energizes meetings, strengthens your effectiveness in the world, and, above all, feels good and makes other people happy. A sense of humor is a characteristic of successful people.
If you are an employer you probably already know that with a sense of humor employees will rate you as more effective at getting things done and more concerned about their well being. A sense of humor is the most important ingredient females look for in a partner, and humor and laughter are the social glue that help create trust and familiarity in relationships. For teachers it is one of the top-rated elements that separate good teachers from bad on student rating forms. Also, if you are a person with a sense of humor people will not only feel comfortable in your presence, but others will find it easier to approach and converse with you. It is a sense of humor that builds rapport between you and others and, too, a degree of trust. It even makes strangers feel welcome.
From these examples alone and, too, from the many benefits, it is easy to see why doing everything you can to build or improve your sense of humor can pay rich and immediate dividends. So the question becomes, how do you develop a sense of humor? Can you do it?
Obviously, for some it will be easier than for others since some people have a natural, comfortable easiness already. A sense of humor is affected by personality, gender, and even level of intelligence. That explains why one person may burst into laughter upon hearing a joke while another my scorn or even become angry.
Did you know that researchers have shown that many people judge the physical appearance of people with a sense of humor much higher than the physical appearance of dull people even if their actual looks are about the same?
The most important place to begin in developing a sense of humor is with yourself. Don’t take yourself too seriously. The fact that you are not perfect can become one aspect, perhaps the first, in helping you build a sense of humor. When you become aware of your own behavior, you will quickly discover that we all make mistakes — your stumbles and fumbles can be a starting point. If you can begin to laugh at your mistakes, or find an inside joke about yourself, you have a place to start. Share it with those who will appreciate it — your friends and family members. The ability to laugh at yourself is the mark of a person with a great sense of humor.
“Self-deprecating humor,” Chuck Gallozzi says at the personaldevelopment.com website, “is positive because it encourages humility.” In his essay, “Sense of humor,” Gallozzi, continues by saying, “It also fosters courage, for that is exactly what is needed to remove the mask one normally wears and expose one's weaknesses to all.” That’s why there is such humility in laughing at yourself, because it rips off the mask of pretentiousness, affectation, and artificiality and, thus, reveals the human behind the facade.
The second important place to begin is by looking at and appreciating life around you. It’s so easy and natural. Even if you have a spark of talent in this direction, you can improve on it and cultivate it by simply improving your observational skills. Observe nature to find the unusual or bazaar. Look at things in your environment — the things with which you have contact everyday — to discover the atypical, unexpected, and odd. Also, and this may be the most important one, examine other people. Become a “people watcher” not just to see them but to discover the humor in human behavior — the unconventional, peculiar, and freaky.
The third place to begin developing a sense of humor is by watching funny things, reading funny things, and surrounding yourself with funny people.. All of these suggestions are worthy of consideration; however, there is no need to try them all at once. Proceed slowly. Situational comedies on television can help you with a sense of timing, but you have to remember that the jokes you hear on such shows have been previously written and memorized; people are seldom that funny in real life.
Reading funny things can help you. If you collect and read books on humor, you gain information, true, but it can serve an additional function as well.. The book, How to be funny on purpose: Creating and consuming humor, by Edgar E. Willis, for example, gives specific instructions on how to construct jokes and humorous material. Once you are aware of how jokes are constructed, you will become a more knowledgeable consumer. You will know what makes certain jokes work and others fail. You will know, too, the circumstances when jokes should be told and when they should not.
Developing a sense of humor is important, and it has many benefits, but if your personality and disposition tend to be a bit reserved, formal, cool, stiff, or wooden, it will be a more difficult task than for those who are predisposed to humor through their nature, mood, and temperament. When your entire frame of mind easily gives way to comedy, funniness, and kidding, the contrast becomes obvious and easily observed. It is almost as if some people are born with the “funny-gene,” and others are not. However, that does not mean anyone cannot work toward developing and incorporating more humor in their lives — and for heavens’ sake, this world needs more people with a sense of humor, no matter how slight, or seemingly insignificant that might at first appear. Minimal is certainly much better than none at all.
I highly recommend Chuck Gallozzi’s essay, “Sense of humor," at personal-development.com. Gallozzi’s subtitle is: “When you lose your sense of humor, you lose your footing,” and he summarizes his essay in this way: “Summarizing, a good sense of humor keeps us lighthearted, and hopeful. Like Thomas Edison (1847 ~ 1931), we'll be able to say, "When down in the mouth, remember Jonah. He came out OK." As long as we maintain our sense of humor, we'll never be poor. How will you know if you have a good sense of humor? Frank Tyger explains, "The ultimate test of whether you possess a sense of humor is your reaction when someone tells you you don't.."
In this interesting and informative essay by Dr. Brian G. Gilmartin, “Sense of humor,” he writes, “The ability to spontaneously laugh is important not only from the standpoint of being looked upon favorably by others, but also from the standpoint of sheer physical (medical) health and longevity.” Gilmartin focuses on relationships and particularly the “love-shy” problem, and he concludes, “Nevertheless, it seems quite apparent that an inability to be spontaneously real in one's interactions with others is a very central aspect of the love-shyness problem..” This essay is an excerpt from his book: Shyness & Love: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment (University Press of America, Inc., 1987), Pgs. 417 - 418.
© Copyright 2009 - And Then Some Publishing, LLC
I’ve always admired people who can tell a joke. Just remembering all the details to make the joke storyline accurate and interesting has been difficult for me. I enjoy watching comedians, and I’ve always been amazed at how they derive humor from common, everyday lifetime events. It just seems so easy and natural. I’ve also harbored admiration for those who are the life of a party. People gather around them just to hear them share stories, anecdotes, delightful trivia, and humorous asides. These are the people who everyone wants to sit by, talk to, and have around. Why can’t I be more like them?
It is clear from casual observation that having a sense of humor can have a positive effect on your life. Think about it. A sense of humor is good for your health. Also, it enlivens relationships, relieves stress, helps you deal with pain and discomfort, enriches your creativity, encourages positive thinking, helps people get acquainted, enhances your ability to solve problems, energizes meetings, strengthens your effectiveness in the world, and, above all, feels good and makes other people happy. A sense of humor is a characteristic of successful people.
If you are an employer you probably already know that with a sense of humor employees will rate you as more effective at getting things done and more concerned about their well being. A sense of humor is the most important ingredient females look for in a partner, and humor and laughter are the social glue that help create trust and familiarity in relationships. For teachers it is one of the top-rated elements that separate good teachers from bad on student rating forms. Also, if you are a person with a sense of humor people will not only feel comfortable in your presence, but others will find it easier to approach and converse with you. It is a sense of humor that builds rapport between you and others and, too, a degree of trust. It even makes strangers feel welcome.
From these examples alone and, too, from the many benefits, it is easy to see why doing everything you can to build or improve your sense of humor can pay rich and immediate dividends. So the question becomes, how do you develop a sense of humor? Can you do it?
Obviously, for some it will be easier than for others since some people have a natural, comfortable easiness already. A sense of humor is affected by personality, gender, and even level of intelligence. That explains why one person may burst into laughter upon hearing a joke while another my scorn or even become angry.
Did you know that researchers have shown that many people judge the physical appearance of people with a sense of humor much higher than the physical appearance of dull people even if their actual looks are about the same?
The most important place to begin in developing a sense of humor is with yourself. Don’t take yourself too seriously. The fact that you are not perfect can become one aspect, perhaps the first, in helping you build a sense of humor. When you become aware of your own behavior, you will quickly discover that we all make mistakes — your stumbles and fumbles can be a starting point. If you can begin to laugh at your mistakes, or find an inside joke about yourself, you have a place to start. Share it with those who will appreciate it — your friends and family members. The ability to laugh at yourself is the mark of a person with a great sense of humor.
“Self-deprecating humor,” Chuck Gallozzi says at the personaldevelopment.com website, “is positive because it encourages humility.” In his essay, “Sense of humor,” Gallozzi, continues by saying, “It also fosters courage, for that is exactly what is needed to remove the mask one normally wears and expose one's weaknesses to all.” That’s why there is such humility in laughing at yourself, because it rips off the mask of pretentiousness, affectation, and artificiality and, thus, reveals the human behind the facade.
The second important place to begin is by looking at and appreciating life around you. It’s so easy and natural. Even if you have a spark of talent in this direction, you can improve on it and cultivate it by simply improving your observational skills. Observe nature to find the unusual or bazaar. Look at things in your environment — the things with which you have contact everyday — to discover the atypical, unexpected, and odd. Also, and this may be the most important one, examine other people. Become a “people watcher” not just to see them but to discover the humor in human behavior — the unconventional, peculiar, and freaky.
The third place to begin developing a sense of humor is by watching funny things, reading funny things, and surrounding yourself with funny people.. All of these suggestions are worthy of consideration; however, there is no need to try them all at once. Proceed slowly. Situational comedies on television can help you with a sense of timing, but you have to remember that the jokes you hear on such shows have been previously written and memorized; people are seldom that funny in real life.
Reading funny things can help you. If you collect and read books on humor, you gain information, true, but it can serve an additional function as well.. The book, How to be funny on purpose: Creating and consuming humor, by Edgar E. Willis, for example, gives specific instructions on how to construct jokes and humorous material. Once you are aware of how jokes are constructed, you will become a more knowledgeable consumer. You will know what makes certain jokes work and others fail. You will know, too, the circumstances when jokes should be told and when they should not.
Developing a sense of humor is important, and it has many benefits, but if your personality and disposition tend to be a bit reserved, formal, cool, stiff, or wooden, it will be a more difficult task than for those who are predisposed to humor through their nature, mood, and temperament. When your entire frame of mind easily gives way to comedy, funniness, and kidding, the contrast becomes obvious and easily observed. It is almost as if some people are born with the “funny-gene,” and others are not. However, that does not mean anyone cannot work toward developing and incorporating more humor in their lives — and for heavens’ sake, this world needs more people with a sense of humor, no matter how slight, or seemingly insignificant that might at first appear. Minimal is certainly much better than none at all.
I highly recommend Chuck Gallozzi’s essay, “Sense of humor," at personal-development.com. Gallozzi’s subtitle is: “When you lose your sense of humor, you lose your footing,” and he summarizes his essay in this way: “Summarizing, a good sense of humor keeps us lighthearted, and hopeful. Like Thomas Edison (1847 ~ 1931), we'll be able to say, "When down in the mouth, remember Jonah. He came out OK." As long as we maintain our sense of humor, we'll never be poor. How will you know if you have a good sense of humor? Frank Tyger explains, "The ultimate test of whether you possess a sense of humor is your reaction when someone tells you you don't.."
In this interesting and informative essay by Dr. Brian G. Gilmartin, “Sense of humor,” he writes, “The ability to spontaneously laugh is important not only from the standpoint of being looked upon favorably by others, but also from the standpoint of sheer physical (medical) health and longevity.” Gilmartin focuses on relationships and particularly the “love-shy” problem, and he concludes, “Nevertheless, it seems quite apparent that an inability to be spontaneously real in one's interactions with others is a very central aspect of the love-shyness problem..” This essay is an excerpt from his book: Shyness & Love: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment (University Press of America, Inc., 1987), Pgs. 417 - 418.
© Copyright 2009 - And Then Some Publishing, LLC
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
And Then Some News
SMOERs: Words of Wisdom
Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product.
---Eleanor Roosevelt (from Day #8)
Your day-to-day guide, Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules! (SMOERs): Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living, compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily rules and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009.
Thursday’s essay, “How do you develop a sense of humor?” is an essay that first discusses the benefits and then offers three clear, specific, and realistic methods that will help everyone develop his or her sense of humor.
Share your link. Have you written anything on humor? How about material on telling jokes, becoming the life of the party, comedy, comedians, or a funny person you know or is in your family? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from AndThenSomeWorks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
How do you develop a sense of humor?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Reading funny things can help you. If you collect and read books on humor, you gain information, true, but it can serve an additional function as well.. The book, How to be funny on purpose: Creating and consuming humor, by Edgar E. Willis, for example, gives specific instructions on how to construct jokes and humorous material. Once you are aware of how jokes are constructed, you will become a more knowledgeable consumer. You will know what makes certain jokes work and others fail. You will know, too, the circumstances when jokes should be told and when they should not.
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product.
---Eleanor Roosevelt (from Day #8)
Your day-to-day guide, Self-Motivation, Optimism, Encouragement Rules! (SMOERs): Daily Reminders for Outstanding Living, compiled by Richard L. Weaver II, Ph.D. There are 365 daily rules and over 1600 quotations for the boost you need to brighten your day - every day - and uplift your spirits. Available Spring 2009.
Thursday’s essay, “How do you develop a sense of humor?” is an essay that first discusses the benefits and then offers three clear, specific, and realistic methods that will help everyone develop his or her sense of humor.
Share your link. Have you written anything on humor? How about material on telling jokes, becoming the life of the party, comedy, comedians, or a funny person you know or is in your family? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from AndThenSomeWorks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
How do you develop a sense of humor?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Reading funny things can help you. If you collect and read books on humor, you gain information, true, but it can serve an additional function as well.. The book, How to be funny on purpose: Creating and consuming humor, by Edgar E. Willis, for example, gives specific instructions on how to construct jokes and humorous material. Once you are aware of how jokes are constructed, you will become a more knowledgeable consumer. You will know what makes certain jokes work and others fail. You will know, too, the circumstances when jokes should be told and when they should not.
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Are you skeptical regarding change?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Neuroscientists did a study of people being monitored by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), while they were trying to process dissonant or consonant information. Although it was about George W. Bush and John Kerry, it could just as easily have been about John McCain and Barack Obama. Here is what the neuroscientists discovered, according to Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson, in their book, Mistakes Were Made, “the reasoning areas of the brain virtually shut down when participants were confronted with dissonant information, and the emotion circuits of the brain lit up happily when consonance was restored.”*
The conclusion from this study, arrived at by Tavris and Aronson, is, “These mechanisms provide a neurological bais for the observation that once our minds are made up, it is hard to change them.”**
Tavris and Aronson continue as they extend their conclusion, “Indeed, even reading information that goes against your point of view can make you all the more convinced you are right.” If this information were not so important, I would choose to paraphrase it or condense it, but Tavris and Aronson are making an incredible statement here:
“In one experiment, researchers selected people who either favored or opposed capital punishment and asked them to read two scholarly, well-documented articles on the emotionally charged issue of whether the death penalty deters violent crimes. One article concluded that it did; the other that it didn’t. If the readers were processing information rationally, they would at least realize that the issue is more complex than they had previously believed and would therefor move a bit closer to each other in their beliefs about capital punishment as a deterrence. But dissonance theory predicts that the readers would find a way to distort the two articles. They would find reasons to clasp the confirming article to their bosoms, hailing it as a highly competent piece of work. And they would be supercritical of the disconfirming article, finding minor flaws and magnifying them into major reasons why they need not be influenced by it. This is precisely what happened. Not only did each side discredit the other’s arguments; each side became even more committed to its own.”***
If you read the above information closely, the answer to the opening question is clear, “Are you skeptical regarding change?” The answer is, You should be! Once you make a decision, you have all kinds of tools at your disposal to bolster it” (Tavris and Aronson, p. 21).
I am writing this essay during the final two weeks of the presidential campaign of 2008, and there is no question that the campaign has taken on a negative, even hostile, quality. Barack Obama is ahead in the polls, a democratic landslide is being forecast by some observers, and the McCain forces are turning to character assassination, instead of differences in policy on major issues, to try to swing voters their way in these final days. It is clear from the research conducted by the neuroscientists cited in the opening paragraph of this essay, that very few (if any) voters are likely to be swayed by this desperation advertising whether by the candidates, direct mailers, or the all-too-frequent, negative robo-calls. (We live in Ohio, one of the “must-win” states, thus, the advertising blitz has been intense/insane.)
This is not a political essay. My intention is to show how difficult it is to change. Imbued with a belief, a value system, or an attitude is likely to be “all there is to it.” But, look at the many areas affected by this desire to remain in consonance with ones beliefs, values, and attitudes.
First, and foremost, it affects persuasion and persuaders. What is the likelihood that one persuader (in a single speech) can influence his or her listeners? From the research cited in this essay, it suggests the job is nearly impossible. How many of your listeners (if you were the persuader) could be considered “swing voters” (those who haven’t made up their mind before your speech) on your topic? Those are likely to be the ones who have a slight chance of being persuaded — maybe. But, remember it is a single speech only not a campaign blitz.
Second, it affects those making New Year’s Resolutions. Of course it does. All those who are trying to change their behavior with a resolution that is supposed to create that change beginning January first, are in for a big surprise. Well, no surprise at all. The research has clearly indicated that such resolutions do not work. The research above would certainly lend further support to that conclusion.
Third, it would affect teachers (of mature adults, and by that I don’t mean senior citizens alone) of students. When people get to be the age of college students and older, it would seem that it becomes less and less likely that teachers — those who are expecting changes in attitudes or behaviors on the part of their students — can make major inroads into the actions and behaviors students bring to them.
One of the reasons this conclusion deeply affects me is simply that in my teaching of speech courses (e.g., interpersonal or public communication), a certain degree of change is taught and expected. A simple guess might be that the changes detected and rewarded (with grades) are likely to be short-lived. It makes sense. Students know how to play the “game of change” when the reward is an improved grade!
Fourth, expectations for change have been the basis of the “And Then Some” philosophy and approach. If you read about my hopes and desires with the publication of the And Then Some Publishing L.L.C. series of books, you will clearly detect the goal of growth, development, and change in readers. Can it be that such hopes and desires are pipe dreams? Impossible to expect; impossible to imagine?
If you read the research, of course that is true. And the skeptics certainly have a point. Change is nearly impossible. But there are a number of caveats that make my writing worthwhile and rewarding. First, when people are truly open and flexible, change becomes more likely. Second, often those who are already prone to believing in or acting according to the ideas being written about, are those who enjoy reading ideas that buttress and support their ideas. They want reinforcement. Third, an intelligent audience reads and accepts ideas they favor just as easily as they read and reject ideas they do not. Intelligent readers enjoy the diversity and the alternatives they are given. A variety of different viewpoints is a challenge to the intelligent reader.
Change may be tough, but it is not completely impossible. It may be simply that we need more independent and swing voters! —intelligent independent and swing voters!
Footnotes:
*Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson (2007). Mistakes were made (but not by me): Why we justify foolish beliefs, bad decisions, and hurtful acts. Orlando, FL: Harcourt, Inc. (A Harvest Book). P. 19.
**The citation on the study: Drew Westen, Clint Kilts, Pavel Blagov, et al. (2006), “The Neural Basis of Motivated Reasoning: An fMRI Study of Emotional Constraints on Political Judgment During the U.S. Presidential Election of 2004,” Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 18, pp. 1947-1958.
***The citation for this research finding is: Charles Lord, Lee Ross, and Mark Lepper (1979), “Biased Assimilation and Attitude Polarization: The Effects of Prior Theories on Subsequently Considered Evidence,” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 37, pp. 2098-2109.
At Lifehacker, there is an excellent essay by Gina Trapani entitled, “Why you should risk dweebhood with written goals?” After writing about what goals mean, Trapani offers five reasons why written goals work. Hers is an excellent answer to the skeptics about the real possibility of effecting changes in your life.
At Schulersolutions.com, A. J. Schuler has written a superb essay, “Overcoming Resistance to Change: Top Ten Reasons for Change Resistance,” that supports the essay I have written above by discussing ten reasons why people resist changing. The essay is interesting and informative.
© Copyright 2008 - And Then Some Publishing, LLC
Neuroscientists did a study of people being monitored by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), while they were trying to process dissonant or consonant information. Although it was about George W. Bush and John Kerry, it could just as easily have been about John McCain and Barack Obama. Here is what the neuroscientists discovered, according to Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson, in their book, Mistakes Were Made, “the reasoning areas of the brain virtually shut down when participants were confronted with dissonant information, and the emotion circuits of the brain lit up happily when consonance was restored.”*
The conclusion from this study, arrived at by Tavris and Aronson, is, “These mechanisms provide a neurological bais for the observation that once our minds are made up, it is hard to change them.”**
Tavris and Aronson continue as they extend their conclusion, “Indeed, even reading information that goes against your point of view can make you all the more convinced you are right.” If this information were not so important, I would choose to paraphrase it or condense it, but Tavris and Aronson are making an incredible statement here:
“In one experiment, researchers selected people who either favored or opposed capital punishment and asked them to read two scholarly, well-documented articles on the emotionally charged issue of whether the death penalty deters violent crimes. One article concluded that it did; the other that it didn’t. If the readers were processing information rationally, they would at least realize that the issue is more complex than they had previously believed and would therefor move a bit closer to each other in their beliefs about capital punishment as a deterrence. But dissonance theory predicts that the readers would find a way to distort the two articles. They would find reasons to clasp the confirming article to their bosoms, hailing it as a highly competent piece of work. And they would be supercritical of the disconfirming article, finding minor flaws and magnifying them into major reasons why they need not be influenced by it. This is precisely what happened. Not only did each side discredit the other’s arguments; each side became even more committed to its own.”***
If you read the above information closely, the answer to the opening question is clear, “Are you skeptical regarding change?” The answer is, You should be! Once you make a decision, you have all kinds of tools at your disposal to bolster it” (Tavris and Aronson, p. 21).
I am writing this essay during the final two weeks of the presidential campaign of 2008, and there is no question that the campaign has taken on a negative, even hostile, quality. Barack Obama is ahead in the polls, a democratic landslide is being forecast by some observers, and the McCain forces are turning to character assassination, instead of differences in policy on major issues, to try to swing voters their way in these final days. It is clear from the research conducted by the neuroscientists cited in the opening paragraph of this essay, that very few (if any) voters are likely to be swayed by this desperation advertising whether by the candidates, direct mailers, or the all-too-frequent, negative robo-calls. (We live in Ohio, one of the “must-win” states, thus, the advertising blitz has been intense/insane.)
This is not a political essay. My intention is to show how difficult it is to change. Imbued with a belief, a value system, or an attitude is likely to be “all there is to it.” But, look at the many areas affected by this desire to remain in consonance with ones beliefs, values, and attitudes.
First, and foremost, it affects persuasion and persuaders. What is the likelihood that one persuader (in a single speech) can influence his or her listeners? From the research cited in this essay, it suggests the job is nearly impossible. How many of your listeners (if you were the persuader) could be considered “swing voters” (those who haven’t made up their mind before your speech) on your topic? Those are likely to be the ones who have a slight chance of being persuaded — maybe. But, remember it is a single speech only not a campaign blitz.
Second, it affects those making New Year’s Resolutions. Of course it does. All those who are trying to change their behavior with a resolution that is supposed to create that change beginning January first, are in for a big surprise. Well, no surprise at all. The research has clearly indicated that such resolutions do not work. The research above would certainly lend further support to that conclusion.
Third, it would affect teachers (of mature adults, and by that I don’t mean senior citizens alone) of students. When people get to be the age of college students and older, it would seem that it becomes less and less likely that teachers — those who are expecting changes in attitudes or behaviors on the part of their students — can make major inroads into the actions and behaviors students bring to them.
One of the reasons this conclusion deeply affects me is simply that in my teaching of speech courses (e.g., interpersonal or public communication), a certain degree of change is taught and expected. A simple guess might be that the changes detected and rewarded (with grades) are likely to be short-lived. It makes sense. Students know how to play the “game of change” when the reward is an improved grade!
Fourth, expectations for change have been the basis of the “And Then Some” philosophy and approach. If you read about my hopes and desires with the publication of the And Then Some Publishing L.L.C. series of books, you will clearly detect the goal of growth, development, and change in readers. Can it be that such hopes and desires are pipe dreams? Impossible to expect; impossible to imagine?
If you read the research, of course that is true. And the skeptics certainly have a point. Change is nearly impossible. But there are a number of caveats that make my writing worthwhile and rewarding. First, when people are truly open and flexible, change becomes more likely. Second, often those who are already prone to believing in or acting according to the ideas being written about, are those who enjoy reading ideas that buttress and support their ideas. They want reinforcement. Third, an intelligent audience reads and accepts ideas they favor just as easily as they read and reject ideas they do not. Intelligent readers enjoy the diversity and the alternatives they are given. A variety of different viewpoints is a challenge to the intelligent reader.
Change may be tough, but it is not completely impossible. It may be simply that we need more independent and swing voters! —intelligent independent and swing voters!
Footnotes:
*Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson (2007). Mistakes were made (but not by me): Why we justify foolish beliefs, bad decisions, and hurtful acts. Orlando, FL: Harcourt, Inc. (A Harvest Book). P. 19.
**The citation on the study: Drew Westen, Clint Kilts, Pavel Blagov, et al. (2006), “The Neural Basis of Motivated Reasoning: An fMRI Study of Emotional Constraints on Political Judgment During the U.S. Presidential Election of 2004,” Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 18, pp. 1947-1958.
***The citation for this research finding is: Charles Lord, Lee Ross, and Mark Lepper (1979), “Biased Assimilation and Attitude Polarization: The Effects of Prior Theories on Subsequently Considered Evidence,” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 37, pp. 2098-2109.
At Lifehacker, there is an excellent essay by Gina Trapani entitled, “Why you should risk dweebhood with written goals?” After writing about what goals mean, Trapani offers five reasons why written goals work. Hers is an excellent answer to the skeptics about the real possibility of effecting changes in your life.
At Schulersolutions.com, A. J. Schuler has written a superb essay, “Overcoming Resistance to Change: Top Ten Reasons for Change Resistance,” that supports the essay I have written above by discussing ten reasons why people resist changing. The essay is interesting and informative.
© Copyright 2008 - And Then Some Publishing, LLC
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
And Then Some News
Thursday’s essay, “Are you skeptical regarding change?,” is an essay that is an appropriate one following January first and all the resolutions made to effect change.
Share your link. Have you written anything on change? How about material on making resolutions, following through on resolutions, the permanence (or impermanence) of change? Share your link with us. We’ll post it and move traffic in your direction. And, a big “thank you,” in advance, from AndThenSomeWorks.com, for sharing your link.
Click here to LINK your And Then Some story
Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
Are you skeptical regarding change?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Change is nearly impossible. But there are a number of caveats that make my writing [about change] worthwhile and rewarding. First, when people are truly open and flexible, change becomes more likely. Second, often those who are already prone to believing in or acting according to the ideas being written about, are those who enjoy reading ideas that buttress and support their ideas. They want reinforcement. Third, an intelligent audience reads and accepts ideas they favor just as easily as they read and reject ideas they do not. Intelligent readers enjoy the diversity and the alternatives they are given. A variety of different viewpoints is a challenge to the intelligent reader.
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
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Thursday's And Then Some Essay preview
Are you skeptical regarding change?
by Richard L. Weaver II
Excerpt:
Change is nearly impossible. But there are a number of caveats that make my writing [about change] worthwhile and rewarding. First, when people are truly open and flexible, change becomes more likely. Second, often those who are already prone to believing in or acting according to the ideas being written about, are those who enjoy reading ideas that buttress and support their ideas. They want reinforcement. Third, an intelligent audience reads and accepts ideas they favor just as easily as they read and reject ideas they do not. Intelligent readers enjoy the diversity and the alternatives they are given. A variety of different viewpoints is a challenge to the intelligent reader.
And Then Some Works - see you THURSDAY!!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Secure your foundation: Forget resolutions
by Richard L. Weaver II
Resolutions don’t work! There are many reasons. There’s a great ezine article on “Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work,” by David Henning. They’re made to stop or lose something; they reflect a lack of planning; they describe a result without referencing behavior; there is no date for completion; there is no consequence for failure; they are made at the last minute; they are vague and too big; they have little support to carry them out; they are not written down; there is no commitment behind them; they offer no flexibility; they push toward perfection; and they often require miracles. Because resolutions don’t work, all they are are empty promises to yourself. So, what’s the answer: no resolutions, then what?
The answer is to get your house in order: secure your foundation. But, this is easier said than done. But isn’t everything? If resolutions are not the route to growth, development, and change, then how do you secure your foundation? Ten steps that begin with a single kernel: believe in yourself; you can do it, but you need to start here, and you need to start now.
First, get your finances in order. “Recession-Proof Your Finances, by Erin Huffstetler, at About.com is a worthwhile essay. Create a budget that covers housing, food, and transportation. After these basics, list your other expenses. Take out your bills and credit-card statements and find out where your money goes and what changes need to be made. Organize your resources. Tough economic times require tough decision making.
Second, know what you value and believe in. Debra Moorhead has a terrific essay on “Determining Your Values." It’s your values and beliefs that may help guide your financial decisions, but they will affect many other factors that make up your foundation as well (e.g., who to befriend, causes you support, organizations you join, or where you choose to volunteer).
Third, build friendships and other support groups (e.g., clubs, organizations, churches, temples, synagogues, business associations, and other groups). At “How to Have More Social Success,” the essay entitled, “How to Make Friends And Get a Social Life,” is especially informative. These friendships and associations are often those people who offer us sounding boards, viewpoints, alternatives, and judgments that assist. They provide people who are there in times of trouble.
Fourth, continue your education. At ehow, there is an essay by the ehow education editor entitled, “How to Continue Education,” that offers some specific suggestions. Never stop learning. Keep informed by reading, listening, and asking questions. Advancing your knowledge and understanding adds strength to your foundation and helps you build credibility. Your integrity depends on whether others can trust you, rely on your judgment, and have faith in your dependability.
Fifth, establish strong family ties. Coach Kathy, in an essay, “Establish strong family ties,” has written a brief essay that discusses marriages that suffer “because of strained relationships with relatives and in-laws.” By bridging any gaps and voids developed through history, you build connections and re-establish important relationships, interdependence, bonds, and associations that buttress the foundation. These are attachments and tie-ins that will make certain the substructure and underpinning of your foundation are rooted in sturdy bedrock.
Sixth, don’t forget your health. At the Federal Citizen Information Center website, there is a terrific essay on “What you can do to stay healthy.” When you eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep, you can be more certain that you are making better decisions, facing the world in a more vigorous manner, and confronting problems and difficulties in a robust way with all your faculties operating at their peak capacity. Listen to your body, and give it what it needs.
Seventh, find causes to believe in and support. When you fight for issues that are bigger than you are, and you put your time and effort behind other causes than self-promotion, it prompts you to look beyond immediate concerns, promotes a vision that supercedes egocentrism, and results in more universal (broader) concerns and interests. Causes will help you stay connected with the outside world and help you avoid isolation.
Eighth, build habits of optimism, encouragement, and a positive outlook. Read about “The benefits of optimism” in the excellent and well-written essay by Elizabeth Scott. It is easy to look at the world’s problems and become depressed. If you are not a hopeful, cheerful, and buoyant person then find people who are and connect with them, associate with them, form friendships with them, and benefit from them. Teach your mind to think in positive terms.
Ninth, volunteer. Some of “the benefits of volunteering” are discussed at essortment. You learn about yourself when you give yourself to others. Also, you may learn a new skill, become part of your community, get motivated and develop a sense of achievement, boost your career options, develop new interests and hobbies, provide new experiences, meet a diverse range of people, and give others real examples of your commitment, dedication and interests. Just from this list alone, think how much potential there is for you in volunteering.
Tenth, keep realistic. At Qurve, there is an excellent essay, “Achieve Your Goals by Setting Realistic Ones,” that will help you clarify your long-term and short-term goals. There are a number of ways to maintain balance and realism in your life. One thing you don’t want to do is build a squishy base that will not last nor support a substantive structure above it. First, fight negative and unrealistic thinking. Your attitude is likely to be your biggest barrier to taking care of yourself and taking charge of your life. Pace yourself; this is a marathon, not a sprint.
An e-zine article, “How to be secure in an insecure world,” begins by saying, “Most of us believe that our happiness and security are dependent upon our relationships, work, income and the external events that take place in our lives. When things are going well there is a sense of well-being and safety. We sleep well at night, wake up feeling refreshed and have the sense that the world can be managed — that we are in control. However, this kind of security is fleeting. As people and events are constantly changing, we are often edgy about what's coming down the road.” This is true, but, if your foundation is strong, you will be vigilant, prepared, and resilient. It takes time to build a solid foundation, but it’s worth the effort in the strength it provides.
Don’t get overwhelmed. Always remain in the present — one day at a time. Tomorrow will be here soon enough. You can plan for the future, but you can’t worry it into submission.
Once the foundation is established and is strong, then you can stretch out, dare to dream, go against the flow, and make your dreams come true. You have established a foundation that now lets you go beyond your current boundaries, exceed your expectations, and excel, shine, be the best and then some.
At Thinkpositive.net, the featured essay is “Work-Life Balance: Positive Practices for Hard Times,” written by Molly Gordon. Gordon writes a positive, uplifting essay that focuses on exercises you can do to improve your resilience and your hopefulness and acquire solid, positive, thinking skills.
At Abafrance-do.org, there is an essay entitled, “5 Proven Ways to Safely Make Positive Life Changes,” that focuses primarily on risk: 1) define your present situation, 2) what will you gain if you change your present situation?, 3) how can you limit the “down side” if you take a risk and make the wrong decision?, 4) be smart by seeking the advice of experts, and 5) have a fall-back position.
© Copyright 2008 - And Then Some Publishing, LLC
Resolutions don’t work! There are many reasons. There’s a great ezine article on “Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work,” by David Henning. They’re made to stop or lose something; they reflect a lack of planning; they describe a result without referencing behavior; there is no date for completion; there is no consequence for failure; they are made at the last minute; they are vague and too big; they have little support to carry them out; they are not written down; there is no commitment behind them; they offer no flexibility; they push toward perfection; and they often require miracles. Because resolutions don’t work, all they are are empty promises to yourself. So, what’s the answer: no resolutions, then what?
The answer is to get your house in order: secure your foundation. But, this is easier said than done. But isn’t everything? If resolutions are not the route to growth, development, and change, then how do you secure your foundation? Ten steps that begin with a single kernel: believe in yourself; you can do it, but you need to start here, and you need to start now.
First, get your finances in order. “Recession-Proof Your Finances, by Erin Huffstetler, at About.com is a worthwhile essay. Create a budget that covers housing, food, and transportation. After these basics, list your other expenses. Take out your bills and credit-card statements and find out where your money goes and what changes need to be made. Organize your resources. Tough economic times require tough decision making.
Second, know what you value and believe in. Debra Moorhead has a terrific essay on “Determining Your Values." It’s your values and beliefs that may help guide your financial decisions, but they will affect many other factors that make up your foundation as well (e.g., who to befriend, causes you support, organizations you join, or where you choose to volunteer).
Third, build friendships and other support groups (e.g., clubs, organizations, churches, temples, synagogues, business associations, and other groups). At “How to Have More Social Success,” the essay entitled, “How to Make Friends And Get a Social Life,” is especially informative. These friendships and associations are often those people who offer us sounding boards, viewpoints, alternatives, and judgments that assist. They provide people who are there in times of trouble.
Fourth, continue your education. At ehow, there is an essay by the ehow education editor entitled, “How to Continue Education,” that offers some specific suggestions. Never stop learning. Keep informed by reading, listening, and asking questions. Advancing your knowledge and understanding adds strength to your foundation and helps you build credibility. Your integrity depends on whether others can trust you, rely on your judgment, and have faith in your dependability.
Fifth, establish strong family ties. Coach Kathy, in an essay, “Establish strong family ties,” has written a brief essay that discusses marriages that suffer “because of strained relationships with relatives and in-laws.” By bridging any gaps and voids developed through history, you build connections and re-establish important relationships, interdependence, bonds, and associations that buttress the foundation. These are attachments and tie-ins that will make certain the substructure and underpinning of your foundation are rooted in sturdy bedrock.
Sixth, don’t forget your health. At the Federal Citizen Information Center website, there is a terrific essay on “What you can do to stay healthy.” When you eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep, you can be more certain that you are making better decisions, facing the world in a more vigorous manner, and confronting problems and difficulties in a robust way with all your faculties operating at their peak capacity. Listen to your body, and give it what it needs.
Seventh, find causes to believe in and support. When you fight for issues that are bigger than you are, and you put your time and effort behind other causes than self-promotion, it prompts you to look beyond immediate concerns, promotes a vision that supercedes egocentrism, and results in more universal (broader) concerns and interests. Causes will help you stay connected with the outside world and help you avoid isolation.
Eighth, build habits of optimism, encouragement, and a positive outlook. Read about “The benefits of optimism” in the excellent and well-written essay by Elizabeth Scott. It is easy to look at the world’s problems and become depressed. If you are not a hopeful, cheerful, and buoyant person then find people who are and connect with them, associate with them, form friendships with them, and benefit from them. Teach your mind to think in positive terms.
Ninth, volunteer. Some of “the benefits of volunteering” are discussed at essortment. You learn about yourself when you give yourself to others. Also, you may learn a new skill, become part of your community, get motivated and develop a sense of achievement, boost your career options, develop new interests and hobbies, provide new experiences, meet a diverse range of people, and give others real examples of your commitment, dedication and interests. Just from this list alone, think how much potential there is for you in volunteering.
Tenth, keep realistic. At Qurve, there is an excellent essay, “Achieve Your Goals by Setting Realistic Ones,” that will help you clarify your long-term and short-term goals. There are a number of ways to maintain balance and realism in your life. One thing you don’t want to do is build a squishy base that will not last nor support a substantive structure above it. First, fight negative and unrealistic thinking. Your attitude is likely to be your biggest barrier to taking care of yourself and taking charge of your life. Pace yourself; this is a marathon, not a sprint.
An e-zine article, “How to be secure in an insecure world,” begins by saying, “Most of us believe that our happiness and security are dependent upon our relationships, work, income and the external events that take place in our lives. When things are going well there is a sense of well-being and safety. We sleep well at night, wake up feeling refreshed and have the sense that the world can be managed — that we are in control. However, this kind of security is fleeting. As people and events are constantly changing, we are often edgy about what's coming down the road.” This is true, but, if your foundation is strong, you will be vigilant, prepared, and resilient. It takes time to build a solid foundation, but it’s worth the effort in the strength it provides.
Don’t get overwhelmed. Always remain in the present — one day at a time. Tomorrow will be here soon enough. You can plan for the future, but you can’t worry it into submission.
Once the foundation is established and is strong, then you can stretch out, dare to dream, go against the flow, and make your dreams come true. You have established a foundation that now lets you go beyond your current boundaries, exceed your expectations, and excel, shine, be the best and then some.
At Thinkpositive.net, the featured essay is “Work-Life Balance: Positive Practices for Hard Times,” written by Molly Gordon. Gordon writes a positive, uplifting essay that focuses on exercises you can do to improve your resilience and your hopefulness and acquire solid, positive, thinking skills.
At Abafrance-do.org, there is an essay entitled, “5 Proven Ways to Safely Make Positive Life Changes,” that focuses primarily on risk: 1) define your present situation, 2) what will you gain if you change your present situation?, 3) how can you limit the “down side” if you take a risk and make the wrong decision?, 4) be smart by seeking the advice of experts, and 5) have a fall-back position.
© Copyright 2008 - And Then Some Publishing, LLC
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