7 Types Of Men You Will Meet At The Bar

Unlike last week, I did not spend my Thursday night at the bar.  In an attempt to lose this double chin before my first visit to the pool, I am trying to cut back on the booze.  If not, I would no longer be able to simply enter the water, I would be required, by weight to cannon ball into the pool.  Although it does sound like more fun, that's not the way I want to turn heads... or how I want to get females wet...  :/ eeekkk.

But have no fear, I have had a solid 3 years to observe the type of guys that walk into the bar.  We are a simple species, it doesn't take extensive studies to figure us out.  So let's take a look at the options you ladies have every single time you walk into the bar.  There is usually one of each in every group of males.

#1. The Regular - You will find him on the same bar stool, at the same bar, at the same time, every night.  He knows all the bartenders by first, middle and last name.  Chances are they have even created nicknames for each other.  This guy is the most likely to buy you a drink.  Since he invests so much time and money in the establishment (and he tips well), the bartenders always cut his bill in half.  This leaves more space for a 'buy the cute blonde across the bar a shot' budget.  If you are looking for an inexpensive night and a potential husband/boyfriend who will spend more time with the bartender than you, don't be afraid to take the seat next to him... he will take care of you for the night.

#2. The Wing-Man! - This is probably the most intriguing guy in the place! He's unselfish. He's charming. He's loyal and he isn't interested in taking you home.  He is more interested in convincing you to go home with his best friend.  But beware, there are several types of wingmen.  The wing-man who saw you second and lost "dibs" to his friend.  The wing-man who has a girlfriend.  Or simply the wing-man because he has higher standards than his friend and lets be honest, he's not attracted to you.  No matter the story, he has one goal; to make his friend look like the most eligible bachelor.  If you are smart enough to catch on to which type of wing-man he is and find yourself more interested in "Goose" than "Maverick" (quick Top Gun reference), let these guys entertain you long enough for you to eventually AND gently make it obvious who you are actually attracted to.  Don't be a home wrecker! You may potentially cause a rift in a friendship!

#3.  The Douchebag. Lets all be honest, this guy is probably the most attractive fellow at first glance.  But at second, third, fourth and fifth glance you begin to feel nauseous and uncomfortable.  This is before you even speak to him.  He is the guy who I nearly hit with the door when I walk in the bathroom because he stands in front of the mirror as he carefully stares at each overly gelled strand of hair and double checks his pink button down to make sure it is wrinkle free.  He took more time getting ready than you did.  The drink he orders has more syllables than yours and he probably washes his jeans after each use (who does that!).  Oh, and he actually has good posture.  Ladies, if you want the finest eye candy in the joint, tell him how much you love his outfit... but you will be forced to understand you're leaving with a guy who is prettier than you.

#4. The Meathead!!!!! <--- the extra "!!!" were to emphasize the steroids.  Most of the time a retarded tan comes with all 493 muscles as if it is a packaged deal (I'm not going to say "Guido" because I refuse to support the movement).  This dude takes up too much space at the bar.  His shirt is so small that he only gets one night to wear it because in order to take it off, he has to flex so it rips.  Topics of discussion are the Arnold Classic, new protein bars on the market, and how much he bench pressed 20 minutes ago at the gym.  From what I hear, every girl wants at least one King Kong experience... until you are actually Jane.  If you want to spend the rest of your life scratching your dudes back because his biceps are to big for himself to reach back there, let him carry you home from the bar.  

#5. The White-Boy Wasted - He sings, he dances, he yells, he falls off bar stools... this guy does it all!  We have all been this guy... some more than others.  This guy is the only one in the bar that does not want to take you home.  His goal for the night is to entertain his friends, embarrass himself, and to forget whatever happened during the day that made him want to get so wasted.  Beer is not enough, he is usually ordering rounds of shots because he doesn't want to be alone (he always regrets this in the morning when he checks his bank account).  Don't worry about approaching him, he will eventually bump into you and will apologize.  Only his apology needs to be accompanied by subtitles.  If for some odd reason you also had a horrible day and need a good laugh, choose a seat close to this guy.  Just be sure you aren't in the "splash zone"... one more shot and he may be throwing up.

#6. The Boyfriend - Ahhhh we finally got to this one.  He is a tricky one I tell ya.  Why? Because guys aren't as persistent as women to announce that they are taken.  We like to entertain the idea of, "we still got it".  You will more than likely find us before we find you.  Why? Because we are not awkwardly staring at you the entire night.  We are at the bar to hang out with our friends and of course, be their wing-man.  You find these guys irresistible because you love what you can't (shouldn't say can't) have.  These guys come off as mysterious because they are cool, calm, and collected.  Chances are they have a good girl at home.  If he is constantly texting or checking his phone, it's safe to say it is because his girlfriend is annoying the shit out of him by making sure he is being a "good boy".  These are the boyfriends who are probably fed up with their current relationship and you may just have the chance to woo him over.  So if you are ok with breaking a girl's heart (which 93.68% of you are), get to know this guy and be sure to let him know you are nothing like the girl he is texting. 

#7. The Mistake - Much like I told the fellas, chances are you will not find the love of you life at the bar.  I say mistake because there are 2 outcomes for this guy.  1. He will be the mistake that you slept with.  You will wake up next to him and make yourself a promise to never drink again.  Beer goggles are not only for guys, they work for women too.  That 8 from last night quickly became a 4.  I just pray that you didn't go home with guy #5! 2. He will be the mistake that you eventually date.  After a great night of conversation at the bar, you exchange numbers and go on a few dates.  Boy, he is enough to make your heart skip a beat huh?  Nope, he will be the mistake you invested a year in before you break up.  It turns out you were only interested in this guy because he was the most impressive at the bar that ONE night.

I am sure we can all agree how much fun it is to go to the bar and converse with the opposite sex.  No matter what your intentions may be.  I'm not saying it can't be done, but I encourage you not to waste a perfectly good seat at the bar in an attempt to find your future husband.  Chances are my friend or another women with lower standards could use that seat.  Understand what it is you are after and go for it.  I have given you a guide, now you just need to figure out which one you want.  I refuse to directly discourage you from talking to any of these guys... that would be called "cock-blocking" and I want no part of that.

Happy Friday and leave comments! Anonymous or not I actually find them entertaining.  And if you shared "7 Types of Women", thank you and you should probably share "7 Types of Men".  If you didn't share "7 Types of Women", ouch, that hurts and maybe you should post this one! Or don't... either way I will keep writing to entertain you fools! Good luck to all this weekend and Go Bucks (even though the Bobcats should be playing them).

Memento Mori

For the past 3 months I have been chipping away at Steve Job's biography written by Walter Isaacson.  I say "chipping away" because the book is nearly 600 pages long.  But 3 months is still a long time to finish one book, right?  Let me explain.   I read biographies and non-fictional books for motivation,  not for entertainment.   Unlike many fictional books, I never reach that moment where I can't seem to put the book down.  The opposite actually occurs.  Imagine reading about the life of Steve Jobs... one of the most hard working and innotative individuals of our lifetime.  Rather than becoming wrapped up in his story, I become inspired to close the book and continue to work harder myself.  

Sooooo where am I going with this? Let me take you through the past 48 hours of my life...

Two nights ago I came across one of those "bend the corner of the page" type phrases while reading Steve's book.  When you do this, you obviously read something that you want to come back to because it struck a chord.  "Memento Mori" is a Latin phrase translated as, "Remember you will die".  Four simple words that equate to such a scary thought.

A scary thought, yet a medicine that will cure nearly any diagnose.  How often do we stress about our careers, bills, school, or even traffic.  I can personally admit that my stress levels have reached an all-time high in 2012.  However, as soon as I read these words, "Remember you will die" everything else seemed irrelevant.  Memento Mori lifted such a huge weight off my shoulders... although it only lasted until the next morning.  Eventually I began to stress again about the things going on in life.  I guess the impression of Memento Mori didn't last long.  Or maybe I just needed to be reminded...

Since the first blog post I have encouraged you to pay attention to detail.  Pay attention to the signs that are in front of you on a daily basis.  Some are larger than others but they are always around.  It took something more extreme for me to realize how important it is to fully embrace the concept of Memento Mori.

Last night my roommates and I were cleaning the kitchen after we returned home from the gym.  I remember hearing all the different noises in the room.  My two roommates were each on opposite sides of the back door cleaning the window.  We had music playing, the ceiling fan's consistent wobble after each full turn and each of our laughs as we joked filled the room.  Then out of no where I heard a loud shatter of glass crash to the floor.  At that moment everything seemed to slow down.  The music seemed to stop, the sound of the ceiling fan was drowned and the smiles were gone.

After I initially turned my face away from the door, I took a look back into the kitchen just to see quarter-size droplets of blood on the wood floor.  One roommate quickly moved away from the door as we stood there in silence as we noticed the blood and confusion on the face of our other roommate.  He had a laceration on his forearm near his wrist that quickly turned our clean kitchen into a murder scene.

As quickly as possible we wrapped his arm in a towel to stop the bleeding.  In what seemed liked 20 seconds; we wrapped his arm, found his naked chest a shirt, grabbed a bottle of water and escorted him out the door.  While driving to the hospital my mind went bananas.  I'm convinced I drew up every possible scenario.  Did he rupture an artery? What would my mom do? What's the fasted way to the hospital? He is probably going to pass out and we are going to have to carry his big ass.  Is he going to live?  I seriously hit every extreme.

It wasn't until after we passed through security (yes, they made a guy in gym shorts without a shirt on with blood running down his arm pass through the metal detector), were told to scoot back behind the "patients wait behind this line" sign, had to spell out his name letter by letter (then to confirm the spelling) to check-in, sit in a small waiting area, then finally have a nurse examine his wrist to confirm he didn't rupture an artery before I relaxed.  By this time my roommate looked like a ghost.

While we waited for our roommate to get examined by the doctor, we made the most of the situation.  I seriously don't think there is another group of guys who could have had that amount of weird fun in the Emergency Room.  We joked with the nurses and doctors, placed bets on the number of stitches he would receive, watched TV and tried to mask our stench from not yet taking a shower from the gym.  My roommate who had the laceration even attempted to hit on the hand doctor (who was married).

But for a matter of time we were all scared.  We didn't know what to think.  When you see the amount of blood we saw, your mind automatically thinks of the worst outcome.  I think all three of us appreciated life a little more when we finally walked out of the hospital (nearly 5 hours later at 3:30am) and after we went through McDonald's drive-thru.  It was late... we are fat... we wanted food... don't judge.

I guess what I'm trying to say is we are all awkward when it comes to death.  I mean look at me, I hide behind jokes when talking about it.  We all fear death.  But should we?  It's inevitable.  We don't have the choice.  Rather than trying to avoid what will eventually come, we should attempt to embrace the time we are alive.  We may not have the choice to live or die but we do have access to choose how we live.

The next time you seem like you can't win, remember you will die.  Don't waste your life complaining or even stressing.  Learn to appreciate each breath and try to maximize your life by making big choices that will make you happy.  I can sit here and give you my blah blah blah speech but I won't get through to you like the video below will.  Do yourself a favor and watch it.

Every morning in 2012, I have started my morning by listening to Steve Jobs 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech.  This is the 3rd part (this is a link to the full speech http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc) 

Life can be taken from us in the blink of an eye.  Windex and a glass window were enough to scare my roommates and I.  Those of you who know me understand my approach to life is different.  I don't like to show negative emotion because I don't want to have a negative affect on the lives of others.  But we all have moments when we forget how precious life is.  It isn't until a tragic event occurs that we are reminded.    

Blog Audience (Part 2)

You may have to hit play, then take it back to the beginning if the sound is off

Oddly enough, I have found myself in this situation on multiple occasions with even my closest friends.  Yes, I have actually had to defend my writing to the same people who signed my high school yearbook! They may not take me seriously because I have always enjoyed having a good time.  I don't like to be serious when I am in the presence of others... that's a waste of life.  But as you can see in "Blog Audience (Part 1)", I can also sit down and write about life; in a serious manner while throwing in a few jokes.  

Simply because I don't take life too seriously doesn't necessarily mean I think it's a joke.  If I did, I wouldn't be busting my ass everyday to make my dreams become a reality.  And because I can't call each and every one of you personally to fill you in on my day, I write about it.  I guess it's my way of keeping in touch with everyone.  But dammit! If you don't read it you are going to force me to call you (and EVERYONE knows I HATE talking on the phone).  I only make exceptions for my parents, my grandma and any other person born before 1975.  I would seriously rather be a pen pal than play phone tag.

With all that said, I appreciate everyone who has been reading (and hopefully enjoying) what I write.  It sounds like everyone really likes when "funny Jarad" is pouring out random thoughts.  7 Types Of Women You Will Meet At The Bar was serious though... kinda.  

Again, thank you for taking a few minutes to get a good laugh or at least a smirk.  I have some exciting projects in the works and I can't wait to finally share them with you.  There is more to me than Wine Wednesdays and my interesting friends.  I really do work behind the scenes.  Lets just hope it all pays off right?!

Soooo for those of you who this is the very first post you have read, welcome to the nonsense.  I have probably been talking about you behind your back! To those of you who have been sharing posts and telling friends, you will all be receiving Christmas Gifts! 

Keep reading and I will keep writing... but can we eliminate the awkward/discouraging moments when I have to ask, "You really never read my blog do you?" It hurts! 

(Oh, and if you're wondering where these "blog" videos are from, a little show called How I Met Your Mother (currently on Netflix).  It is hilarious and sometimes I feel like Barney is an older and wiser me).

7 Types Of Women You Will Meet At The Bar

Last night I had the opportunity to observe those in attendance at the bar.  I remained fairly sober so for entertainment I did some people watching.  I couldn't help but notice the different type of women at the bar.  Women really do come in all shapes and sizes.  They all have different motives and intentions.  From 7 pm to 2 am... I conducted my own little experiment and came up with 7 different types of women that you will meet at the bar... and I will even tell you which ones to pursue depending on what your intentions are.  

#1. The "Woo" Girl - 2 years ago she was my favorite.  Typically on the edge of her barstool anxious to order her next Lemon Drop just for the chance to throw her arms in the air and yell "Woo".  She is the life of the party.  More than likely, she has a friend on each side... just as attractive (I've never seen an ugly woo girl).  Every guy patiently waits his turn in an attempt to corral and tame this wild creature.  Good luck! She's there to have a good night with her friends.  The same friends who are the best cock blocks in the world... they have the most practice... they probably have trophies.
If you are competitive and comfortable with rejection... give this one a whirl.  

#2. The Girlfriend - She is taken... wedding ring or not, there is a slim chance that approaching this woman will have a positive outcome.  Will she flirt with you? For sure. Will she let you buy her a few drinks? Of course. Will she give you the perception that there is a mutual 'connection'? Oh yes.  Who will she be waking up to the next morning? Her boyfriend.  Don't get caught up in the infatuation that she is off the market.  Chances are she is only there to get the attention that she wishes she was getting at home.  Don't waste your time or your money.  Yea you may think there is something special about her, but that is why she's taken.
If you want to waste your night in an attempt to "save this girl from a horrible relationship"... reach in your pockets and throw this girl some drinks. 

#3. The Lesbian - Looks can be deceiving... you will be surprised.  I have spent an entire night talking to the most blatant lesbian ever... and it was a blast.  She taught me more about myself than any female in my past.  These women are actually honest.  She made fun of my baby face (everyone's go-to), complimented my sense of humor and nearly convinced me she could please a woman better than I could.
If you are simply looking for great conversation, I suggest you target this woman. 

#4. The Hot Mom (Not Cougar) - Ahhhhh... my favorite.  Unlike 98.78% of men, I don't fantasize about sleeping with Stifler's mom (I can't wait to see the new American Pie).  Don't get me wrong, if the opportunity came up... just kidding, kinda.  But there are just too many variables in this equation.  Is she married, does she have kids, what would my mom think... the list goes on.  I get excited by these women because of their knowledge.  Last night my roommates and I spent a good hour talking to 3 'older' women. All married. With Kids. But they still knew how to have fun.  Much like 'The Lesbian', The Hot Mom is honest.  They are comfortable talking about any and everything.  And they aren't afraid to put you in your place if you cross the line.  I personally like to talk to these women to see what I should be looking for in my future wife.  The 3 women we met last night, they would all fit the bill.  From the moment we sat down they made it clear there would be no visit to Cougar Town.  When they left I did everything but beg them to bring their husbands next time.
If you want to see life with a different perception... talk to a Mrs.  You will learn a lot.

#5. The "One of the Guys" - She hasn't taken her eye off the game since she sat down.  She is sitting between a group of guys drinking a draft beer.  If you have any chance of finding your future wife, she is it.  5 years from now, when you have a little nugget, she will be perfectly fine with you going to the bar with the guys.  All she asks for is a night with the girls in return.
If you are looking for a drama free night... introduce yourself to her dude friends first and you are in there. 

#6. The Ugly Girl (who you try to be friendly and introduce yourself but she will act like a supermodel) - ughhhhh... THEE WORST! These are the girls who will leave you stuck with a confused face.  I feel like this happens every. single. time. I go out.  Sitting at the bar, I look to my left and what do I see? Not the most attractive girl in the world.  Just to be nice, I strike up a conversation.  Getting her number or taking her home is no where near the plan.  It's not even an option.  I usually just want to introduce myself and let her know she can have one of my fries if she gets hungry.  Last night I found myself in this situation.  I tried to introduce myself to a young lady (gave her my real name) and started a pretty basic conversation.  I had a feeling this ugly gave me a fake name so I listened for what her other ugly friends called her.  This dumb broad's name was Holly... she told me it was Susana... all I could say was STOP.
If you want to feel rejection without the potential reward of a hottie... kindly talk to the ugly girl.

#7. Not Your Future Wife - This is just about every female in the building! Stop. I have tried to tell you before, you will not find the love of your life at the bar.
If you are that guy that still thinks you will... then keep getting white boy wasted and see how that goes for ya.  

Don't worry ladies... I will be writing about the 7 types of guys you will meet at a bar.
But don't worry guys... I'm not going to ruin everything for us.

It's Friday, throw on some OU green, go to the bar, see if you can find each one of these girls, and watch the Bobcats.  If you find a girl rooting against OU, 10 out of 10 times she will be Type #6.

OU, OH YEAH!

OU, OH YEAH!

It's March, the sun is out, trees are blooming, I survived St. Patty's Day, and most importantly the Bobcats are in the Sweet 16.  I think it's safe to say this month has been flooded with Green.

As an Ohio University alum, I can't tell you how many times I have had to sit down and explain to someone that I am a Bobcat,  not a Buckeye.  That I wear green, not scarlet.  That I spent my college days in Athens, not Columbus.  And depending on the age of the person, I am either defending our drinking reputation or "cheers-ing" to it.  We are Ohio's first and finest University.

I don't know many people who have stumbled in and out of the bars on Court Street who regret their decision to attend Ohio University.  We are a proud ass group of individuals.  A pride that until recently, had nothing to do with our athletics.  This has been a gift and a curse.  Because we are not traditionally known for our Athletic Department, students/alumni have been forced to pride themselves on other aspects of Ohio University.  We have been conditioned to appreciate EVERYTHING that comes with being a Bobcat.  I have even found a way to appreciate Hudson, even though you walk in with one sickness and leave with 3.

Although our pride for Ohio University has always been high, we don't exactly receive much nationwide recognition outside the month of October (Halloween block party).  The past few years our teams have changed this.  They have steadily increased our school's exposure by winning.  No one has been doing a better job of this than Coach Groce and the rest of the men's basketball team.  From beating Georgetown two years ago to potentially 40 minutes away from making history as the first OU basketball team to reach the Elite 8.  It has honestly been an exciting run for Bobcats all around.

I am experiencing excitement that I never would have imagined as a freshmen.  I'm not talking about the excitement that comes from finally reaching the front of the line at Big Momma's at 2:30 am.  Or the excitement of that first warm spring day on South Beach.  I'm talking about having the opportunity to watch the Bobcats play in HD... on national television.  It's a huge upgrade from the pocket cameras they use at STO.

Making this tournament push has quickly become the cherry on top.  The only knock against Ohio University has always been sports related (or our party reputation...depending on how you look at it).  If we continue to compete in every sport, future Bobcats may have more to brag about.  They may actually attend future games.  When I was on campus it took a lot for me to make that hike across campus to watch a sporting event.  I'm confident that in a few years it will no longer be a sacrifice to "lose" a night by watching OU Athletics.

Just years ago I was sitting in class in a full pledge debate regarding the school's budget and whether or not we should spend such a hefty amount within our sports programs.  As a Sport Management major I was always bias.  I grew up playing sports and understand what they can do.  Not only for those directly involved, but for a school, campus and the entire community.  There is no better example of this than what we are experiencing now.  No one will say they wish they would have attended a different university.  But we also don't randomly express so much pride in our school.  March Madness has given us all a reason to stand up and be proud.  From my Facebook to my Twitter Ohio University seems to be the topic of choice.

I love my alma mater! I love seeing us on Sportscenter! I even love watching Coach Groce awkwardly stare into the broadcaster's eyes during the halftime interview...

But can we all agree it's weird to hear us referred to as "Ohio"... In all my years I have only said "OU" or "Ohio University".

Good Luck to the coaching staff as well as the players.  OU, OH YEAH!
 

Blog Audience (Part 1)

It has been a little less than 3 months since I created this damn blog.  You now know a little more about me and I still only know a little about you.  So help me out and leave comments so I can learn a little more about ya.  I appreciate those who have shared a post, whether it was because you actually thought it was good or if you just didn't want me to feel like the little red-head freckled kid who didn't get picked to play kickball.  Thank you either way.

Recently I have been getting numerous questions surrounding the purpose behind this blog.  If you would have asked months ago, I would've said the sole purpose was to promote my book.  After a few posts I actually found myself enjoying it.  I like to make an attempt to inspire others and it is a way for me to concentrate and appreciate my personal life.

I have friends who have known me for years who simply can't take me serious.  My sense of humor has always been a gift and a curse.  This would be why certain people don't actually think I am serious about this blog.  They just don't see me sitting down and writing.  If you have found yourself trying to imagine me writing, and you just can't see it...  this is usually what it looks like.

well, something like that.... usually I'm wearing a tshirt and shorts.... and a woman in lingerie is only present 23.67% of the time.  

But seriously, I would like to thank everyone for the support! Life has been better since letting more people into it.  My book is finished and I just need to format it.  I hope this brings some sort of joy to your lives.  I put a little more thought into each post than Barney does.  

Solitude

There is no better way to truly know who you are than to spend a substantial amount of time by yourself.  The benefits that may emerge from allowing yourself a day or two of solitude is rewarding.  It provides an atmosphere removed from distractions and makes it easier to concentrate and reflect on your life.  Solitude is the only thing that has the power to slow time.  In a world where time is money as we all get so caught up in the daily rat race, we frequently forget to take a few deep breaths to enjoy the present.

When I say alone, I seriously mean alone.  Turn off the TV, close your lap top and pull out your ear buds.  Silence has become a scary thing.  Especially when you are alone.  It forces you to actually think rather than react.  React to all the different distractions.  Solitude can be rewarding but it also has the potential to make you go crazy.  It simply depends on how you treat it.  Whether you embrace or reject it.

I am known for needing my "me" time.  As much as I love all eyes on me, I also demand moments to myself.  This weekend has given me just that.  Both of my roommates went out of town.  Usually I get the urge to jump in joy and walk around the house butt ass naked as soon as they shut the door.  This weekend was a little different.  I mean I still left the clothes in the bedroom but I caught myself rejecting the thought of being alone.

Early in the week I dedicated this weekend to completely finishing my book.  That meant reading/editing 89 pages worth of single-spaced material.  I've reread every word more than 100 times.  It's to the point I could tell it as a bedtime story.  Because of my familiarity with the words, I found myself mesmerized at the thought of ending this project.  I had time to reflect on the time I spent not only living the stories, but writing them as well.  Reflection that I rarely ever experience because I am too focused on the end result rather than the process.

In an attempt to clear my mind and prepare myself for my next project, I decided to catch a movie.  By myself.  After spending a solid 20 minutes watching movie trailers to determine which movie to see, I landed on Friends With Kids.  The movie started at 7 and I arrived at the theatre around 7:07.  With the 30 minutes of previews I thought I would be fine.  Not so much.  I walked into the movie and it was packed.  Not only did I feel awkward walking all the way up to the top as I tried to find a seat that wasn't right next to someone, but I also lost my footing as I made my way back down.  When I go to the movies with someone else or a group of people, it's annoying when you someone sits right next to you.  Especially when there are 49 other seats available.  So I decided to give all these couples their space and sit in the second row.

I didn't realize how close the second row was.  I seriously had to move my head left to right just to see the entire screen.  Minutes later, a posse of 5 women came walking in and were forced to enjoy the luxury of the second row as well.  They were a little more upset than I was.  Their reactions made me feel better about the situation.  This was until these 30 year old's on a double date walk in and ask me if I could scoot down so they can all sit together.  What do you know, perfect math, I now found myself squeezed between a group of 20 something year old women and 2 couples who were drinking.

I guess in the end it was for the best.  The one weekend I had completely to myself, I wasn't really excited about it.  Instead of sitting through a movie by myself in a dark corner, I sat next to two women who had the same sense of humor as myself.  I'm usually that one guy at the movie theatre that laughs at the smallest/unexpected joke.  That wasn't the case last night.  These 2 complete strangers made sure I wasn't alone.  It's weird how the world works.  I don't think I needed some solitude this weekend.  Just goes to show some things in life shouldn't be forced.

KONY 2012

If you have some time on your hands, I ask you watch to this video.  If you don't have time, I suggest you make some.  If you don't take the time to watch the video, you will have no idea what I am talking about in this post.  This video helps explain what is so amazing about the world we live in today.

I know we all watch several videos a day on the internet.  Ordinary people become overnight celebrities by posting a simple video on YouTube and letting the rest of the world do the rest.  We share these videos on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and any other social networking site.  Every video has its own story and we all take something unique from it.  Whether it is a new video by Jenna Marbles simply to make us laugh or another performance by Sophia Grace and Rosie to remind us of our childhood dreams.  Video sharing connects the world by allowing all of our eyes to see the same video while letting each of our hearts feel a personal experience. 

This video and the KONY 2012 movement has left me feeling unaware and irresponsible to the rest of the world.  I have read about the Invisible Children and watched a documentary years ago.  Back then I was left with the same emotions.  But back then, instead of doing something about it I decided to rather let the rest of the world fix the problem.  At 23, I now understand this isn't how the world works.  If you really want something to change, you must start with yourself.  You must make the first step.

We have become conditioned to think we can not make an impact.  That one voice isn't enough to make a difference.  If we don't have a stage to share our story, then we don't have an audience to spread the word.  This is no longer a valid excuse.  The internet has given everyone a platform to be heard.  One post can be exposed to hundreds of people.  If one of those people share that post on their site, another group of hundreds will see that post.  Our voices are now louder than ever.

On a daily basis I try to let you into my world by telling personal stories and thoughts in hope of you feeling inspired.  I will never be able to tell a personal story that will leave you more inspired than this video.  In a country where we complain about gas prices and the long lines at Chipotle, we tend to take life for granted.  The majority of us are clueless to what really goes on outside of the US.  There are some that simply don't even care.  Don't be one of those people.  Learn to understand what is important in the world.

How often do we actually post videos to help change the world? A video that has the potential to right a wrong.  A video that will leave a lasting impression on more than a handful of people.

If you have never done it, you can do so today.  Share KONY 2012 on Facebook.  It's one click on a mouse.  

"Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come"    

Self-Discipline

The most challenging/satisfying aspect of pursuing a personal dream is self-discipline.  To pursue such a dream alone requires more than the average dose.  Every day is a constant battle between your internal ambitions and external distractions.

I know I find myself questioning my own self-discipline several times a day.  Should I eat another piece of pizza even though my stomach is already pissed at me?  Should I go to the gym or go to the bar for a brew?  Should I pick up a book or watch the rest of this game?  Self-discipline comes into play on nearly every decision we make.  For some reason, the right decision is usually the more difficult choice to make.  There is no larger presence of self-discipline than at work.

Most people live by a schedule.  They don't really have an option not to.  They are told what days they work and what days they have off.  There is a specific time for them to arrive and a specific time for them to depart.  Certain tasks must be completed within that amount of time.  If not, there are consequences.  The majority of the world falls into this category.  There is nothing wrong with that.  If you feel comfortable and happy then you shouldn't feel ashamed.  I personally respect and applaud you for it!  This lifestyle makes me uncomfortable so I have elected to take a different route.  A route with very little structure!

My daily "work-day" is a revolving door of self-discipline.  Without a boss to report to, everything I do is for my best personal interest.  If I bust my ass, I will receive the reward.  If I don't do what is necessary, I will be the one who is negatively effected.  All the pressure to succeed or fail rests on my shoulders.  I have no one to blame but myself.  There are no excuses.  I've become so public with my career ambitions that those of you who read this understand my goals and will have the opportunity to witness my successes as well as my failures.  My career has been build surrounded by glass walls.

If you have read previous blog posts, you are aware I tend to live in the spurt of the moment.  When it comes to my personal life, I don't like to make plans.  If a friend calls (well texts because I REALLY hate talking on the phone) I will usually drop what I'm doing and instead make plans with that friend.  I'm weird and understand that memories with friends and family are more valuable than the paychecks I can earn at a 9 to 5.  There isn't a 9 to 5 out there that can give me a stage to make the impact that I intend.  I like what I do because it gives me a source of revenue as well as the flexibility to make adjustments throughout the day.

Such freedom to adjustment my day calls for a larger amount of self-discipline.  Time becomes more precious and focus plays a more important role.  I don't believe in pursuing anything if your heart's not in it.   You can't expect to put 67.35% into something and receive a value of 100% as an end result.  Nothing in life works this way.  This is why I only pursue opportunities that I truly believe in.  Self-discipline isn't doing what you are "required" to do.  It is doing what you "believe" in and knowing the difference between the two.

Self-discipline is what truly separates Winners from Losers, Achievers from Failures, and Employers from Employees.  Everything else will fall in place.  If you lack knowledge in a certain field, self-discipline to educate yourself will give you the brain power to become an expert.  If you lack certain skills or talent, self-discipline to practice will eventually make you a professional.  Self-discipline is all you need.  Everything else is secondary.  You are the only one who truly knows what you want. Stay true to it and work hard... eventually you will be rewarded.

  
PS! I would like to thank everyone who has made even the smallest attempt to share this blog.  Whether it has been word of mouth or by Twitter or Facebook.  Traffic continues to grow! It's nowhere near where I would like it to be but I am appreciative.  Don't be afraid to share posts on Facebook, Retweet on Twitter, or even pin it on Pinterest (I will be writing about Pinterest again soon).  If you can do this for me, I promise to give you females a hug and buy you guys a drink the next time I see you! (or if you ladies would rather have a drink, I guess I can do that too)

Sophia Grace & Rosie

If you have yet to experience the Sophia Grace movement, you have been missing out.  These 2 girls have taken the internet by storm.  Their original cover of Nicki Minaj's "Superbass" has landed them several TV interviews including their biggest supporter, Ellen Degeneres.  Sophia Grace and her Hype Girl, Rosie have become regulars on the Ellen Show as the British Princesses are quickly becoming real life hip-hop royalty.

(had their newest video up but YouTube took it done.... PISSED)

These 2 young ladies have made me realize two things...

1.  I am now open to having a girl when I am ready to start a family.

(Don't even give me the whole, "you can't choose whether or not your child will be a boy or girl". I believe I can.  I've done research.  I've watched movies.  It is possible.  I have successfully trained my sperm to swim the other way for years. I'm sure I can manipulate which gender swims faster!)

For the longest time I was petrified of having a daughter.  I mean... we are talking puberty, periods, boyfriends, birth control, shopping, paying for a wedding... the list really does go on.  Growing up, my Mother provided the only estrogen throughout our home.  I never had to look out for a younger sister.  I never had to worry about seeing anything bloody in the bathroom trashcan/toilet. I was never really exposed to all the "baggage" that comes with being a girl.  My mom was always a woman.  I never looked at her as a girl. Women are different.  To this day, I'm still convinced females don't fart.  (Ladies, this doesn't mean you can prove me wrong the next time I see you.  I WILL THROW UP)

As the years have passed, I have become more comfortable with the idea of having a little baby girl.  The majority of my cousins have daughters.  This has given me a small dose of experience dealing with toddlers.  It has helped me understand its not that bad.  They can actually be cute.

Although my cousins are all adorable and make me laugh, I seriously have to thank YouTube for providing me with endless videos that have convinced me I actually want a girl.  From girls like Sophia Grace and Rosie to the little Amish looking girl from the Monster video where she says "i'll kick his ass".  They have inspired me to someday retrain my female sperm and put them on a Michael Phelps workout regimen.  Mostly because my little nugget will eventually relieve me of my duties in the kitchen when my parents host holiday dinners.  Yes, throughout life my mom has used me as her assistant in the kitchen.  I can slice and dice with the best of them.  But I do look forward to passing my knife to thee next in line.

2. We can all learn something from children.

We tend to believe that it is our job as adults to teach the children of the world.  We get so wrapped up in what we should be teaching them that we become blind to the lessons they can teach us everyday.

Don't be stupid... I'm not saying you should rely on a 5 year old to teach you Calculus.  I'm talking about the fundamentals of life.  There are certain norms that all babies are born with.  I personally believe we tend to over-teach children.  We want to mold them to be more like us.  Don't get me wrong, I promise you my baby boy (yes, I will have one girl and one boy) will rock a bowl cut for the first 12 years of his life simply to show off his stellar cowlick.  I hope he also has trouble pronouncing his R's.  I even hope he throws temper tantrums to get what he wants.  I would be lying if I didn't want him to be a mini-me.

Will he be? No friggin way! I will have no control over him.  He will do things his way.  He will have his own personal interests and his own taste.  I doubt his favorite football team will be the Detroit Lions.  He will probably hate the music I listen to.  Playstation 3 will seem like an ancient artifact.  He will make fun of the way I dress and think I'm weird because of the food I eat.  He will turn a certain age and want to be as different as I am in every way.  I can almost guarantee he will be embarrassed by me... I guess if he does all these things, in a strange way, he will turn out to be just like me.  A unique individual who loves and respects his father but is independent enough to be his own person.

Children like Sophia Grace can teach you some things.  Like not being afraid to stand out.  Be excited about life.  Don't let fear keep you from your dreams.  Always have a side-kick.  You're not too cool to dance.  If you think you're a prince/princess then throw on a crown.  Understand when an opportunity is in front of you.  And if there is one thing that can fix a bad day, it's a smile.

I will remain open to learning lessons from my children.  I hope you do the same!