Do you have as much passion for anything in life as this guy?

Or share as much excitement for anything like this guy?

A great blog post dropped-in my Tweet stream from Trent, who shared, “If you want to succeed in life, stop relying on your future self to take care of things. Now.”

Well said Trent.

Videos like this, while funny and hilarious at their face value- they are a reminder that passion counts. It makes all the difference. If you do anything in life with this much passion, you’re destined for success.

• The greatest possession you have is the 24-hours in front of you.
  (And listen to Trent, take care of things. Now.)
• Embrace what you are passionate about in life. Once you find that — don’t just be good at it, strive to be the best. Be better than anyone at it. Be remarkable at it.

I’m determined to make my mark. How about you?
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Last week, while on business, I had one of the best seafood dinners I’ve had in months. We ate at a restaurant called Petey’s, in New Hampshire. Being from Kansas, eating fresh clam chowder, shrimp and lobster, it was heaven on a plate. The filling meal reiterated to me, all seafood is NOT created equal

I was with two of my co-workers, and when we were leaving, we mistakenly picked up what we thought was “free”. It was wrapped in a napkin placed next to the mints. As we were walking to the car, we realized we actually picked up something that was actually for sale. It was a plastic “lobster magnet”. Our better judgment got to us, and we all agreed we should give them back. So, we turned around and went back inside. Things actually turned out pretty laughable- we joked with the restaurant employees and actually ended up purchasing one of the lobster magnets.

On the car ride back to the hotel, I remember thinking about what it meant to “do the right thing”? For me personally, I knew it meant a lot. But what I realized through this silly “lobster magnet mix-up” was that I also held in high regards the value of knowing my co-workers did the same. I felt this sense of warm glowing pride knowing the company I work for, as well as my friends all were aligned with such a personal belief.

I, certainly am far from being perfect. I attribute everyone from my friends, my parents to Mrs. White from my days of Student Council VP in high school, as all people who have influenced and shaped what it means to “do the right thing”.

…and it means a lot. It’s that piece of your character of what you do when you think no one else is looking.

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Last week when flipping through the TV channels, I couldn’t help but be fixated on the NFL Draft. When you sit down and think of all of the moving parts from start to finish for the NFL draft, it’s incredible. Coaches and teams analyze exactly the players they need and map out statistical strategies of how and when to draft them.

Somewhere in between watching the emotional reactions of the families and players, to hearing the coaches excitement in their voices speaking on their newest draft pick…

…I started thinking about what a galvanizing event the NFL Draft is for a team.

Think about it. So much faith and motivation is behind this 1 person being selected for the team. This underlying “hope” that this 1 person will change things, and make things better.

It’s incredible to think about the high value that is placed on 1 person.

I started extrapolating these thoughts…

• Do businesses understand the total effect of 1 person? 1 human; not software, not a system. How a new hire can effect not only their everyday business but shape the culture? Leaders within businesses could also learn something from the NFL in the sense that the “socialization” of adding a new hire is important, so the entire team feels comfortable and confident of how they fit in.

• I also started thinking about how 1 person does have the power to change any team in my life. I’m on several teams already; the company I work for is a team, I play on an indoor recreational soccer team, the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party steering committee is a team …all these teams are in my life.

The NFL draft reminded me that 1 person can make a difference on any team or organization. And the selection of a team member shouldn’t ever be taken lightly or undervalued. The same is true about integrating and socializing a new team member in your life. What’s your take?

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Today I learned how to snowboard and I can’t stop smiling about it. Why is that such a big deal? It was the experience and the challenge of learning something new.

I’ve skied for many years with my friends and family- and it’s comfortable. It’s in no way an intimidating sport for me. Prior to this trip I had always wondered what snowboarding was like. I knew that sticking with skiing would be the “easy thing to do”. The thought of starting new again and having to learn new things …it was overwhelming. What if I suck at it? Does that make me a failure? Why not stick with skiing since I know how-to already? Nevertheless, I committed myself to learning how to snowboard and told myself, “I’m doing this, no excuses.”

I wanted to learn something new.

And guess what happened? I had the time of my life learning how to snowboard and I don’t think I’ll ever go back to skiing. (I also want to mention how great it was to have one of my best friends, Adam, teach me how to snowboard)

As I’m getting older, I’m beginning to think that life inconveniently gets in the way of learning new things. New experiences seem to be harder to “schedule” or “find the time to do”.

That sucks.

The rich sense of fulfillment you get from new experiences is one of the best things in life, IMHO. Finding time to do this, I think, is essential- and anything else is negligent.

Are you finding the time to make sure you try new things? Or are you quick to make excuses? It’s easy to find reasons not to try new things or tell yourself you just don’t have the time.

Think of the things you’ve always wanted to try, make a list. Then figure out ways in which you can do them- what steps you have to take in order to do it. Ask smarter people who can help you in achieving them.

Now you get out there. Take advice from my friend Matt, who once told me, “Explore. Dream. Discover.”

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Do yourself a favor. Carve out 20-minutes of your time, in the next 5 days, and sit down to watch this speech by J.K. Rowling. It’s incredible. Do what I do; sit down at the dinner table with your laptop or fire up the TED iPhone app and watch this. Forget everything you know that she’s written previously, this speech isn’t for kids or Harry Potter fans. It’s much better than that.

It is eloquently, inspiring and well delivered.

I’ll stop here, because I worry I’ll ruin the brilliance in her delivery. Just watch it already.
…don’t forget to share your thoughts on her speech in the comments section.

I keep nodding my head like “yeah” as I’m reading updates from people like Chris, that are referencing a great quote to remember:

“Do or do not. There is no try.”
- Yoda

…inspiration can strike us in the strangest ways (like looking down at a sweetheart, sitting on your desk.).

This one happened to catch my attention, at work, when I was eating some leftover candy from Valentine’s Day. I believe you can never be to busy to search for inspiration.

Your elementary teachers and mom & dad had it right when they told you, “have the right attitude.” Adding to that, I say; have the right attitude about inspiration.

Inspiration can’t be episodic. Find a way to be inspired frequently.
Read books, blogs, listen to speeches, podcasts, TV programs of people that truly motivate you.  Surround yourself with friends that motivate you. That moment of inspiration you get when your neurons “spark” you to do something or take action is what life is all about. Whatever it is that ignites that, do it.

You can never be to busy to search for inspiration. Make sure you are not only inspired, but frequently. It can’t be every other month, strive to make it daily or at least weekly. Make post-it notes, put quotes on your bathroom mirror, send yourself reminders, setup alerts — you must foster the right environment. I personally have a fear of mediocrity and you should too.

Each dose of inspiration fades, but once you figure out how to continual reignite that spark — it’s addictive… in a GREAT way.

So that’s my take… what’s yours? How do you get motivated?
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this world is beautiful.

I came across a short video of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, it’s the 2nd largest aquarium in the sea. Watch the video (make sure the HD is on if your computer can handle it, the clarity is stunning).

When you’re watching, I couldn’t help but think and appreciate the beautiful “other” world that exists on our planet, the sea. This video is incredible because it captures the amazing diversity of all these species all coexisting …in this one giant fish tank.

Yes, everyone is in full swing of the fast paced start to the new year (i’m guilty), but occasionally we need to make time to slow down, step back and appreciate the beauty all around us.

[record scratch]

I know, I know cheezy stuff …but perhaps I was brainwashed by James Cameron after watching Avatar in 3D, but I mean it. Make sure you’re not moving to fast to lose sight of the beauty right in front of you. Or in this case, right below us.

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This week, while out to dinner eating pizza with my roommates, we talked about the importance of setting goals and having a mindset with measurable achievements (ok, truth be told- that was the gist of the conversation, we didn’t phrase it exactly like that- with all the fancy corporate buzzwords ).

Anyways, ever since that conversation, I’ve been thinking about what my goals are going to be for 2010. Which in turn has reminded me of a quote I recently posted to Twitter (follow me if you want).

The life hack advice embedded in this quote is important. In my opinion, you should extend yourself by setting goals and having dreams and aspirations in life. However, having confidence in yourself and who you are NOT makes all the difference in the world. This quote is a great reminder of that.
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I took the following picture with my iPhone (above) tonight while at Allen Fieldhouse, it was the second Kansas Jayhawks basketball game of the season (my alma mater). While the picture quality isn’t great, it also can’t express the emotions I felt …going back to Allen Fieldhouse to watch a game gave me chills (hey, stick with me, this blog post isn’t about sports- I promise).

You almost feel like a kid again with the stimulating emotions that flow through you when you walk into Allen Fieldhouse. Looking around, gazing, taking the rich old history of the arena (you can almost smell it), soaking it up for everything it’s worth. And nothing can replace the excitement you get of the pre-game traditions and in-game cheers ‘n chants you yell along with the entire band + student section.

As a loyal KU grad, the experience certainly takes me back and I bask in the moment every time I’m lucky enough to attend a game. Going to tonight’s basketball game reminded me of a great quote I love to share because it rings so true:

“Experiences satisfy the soul”.

This quote can be interpreted into several meanings -but what it encapsulates, is what we all long for…

…in this world of smartphones, iPhones, g-chat, crackberrys, the Internet, HDTVs, Facebook, iPods, Wii’s …there’s a lot of “virtual” technology out there that certainly keeps us entertained. Everything is moving so fast and screaming for your attention with alerts and asking you to multi-task just to get it all done. However, with all of these electronics and virtual entertainment that exist, they can’t replace the compelling and moving experience of a great- authentic- real life experience. For me, I know going to a KU game is one way I “satisfy the soul” with an experience that I cherish.

I’ve realized on any given day the things I choose to do (work or play), for the most part, are all very carefully calculated choices. Everything has rationale, justification and is prioritized accordingly. However, I make sure to never lose sight of the fact a great experience is worth a lot. Living in the moment- devoting your full attention to things that matter most- enjoying the experience …it makes all the difference.

It’s the experience that you remember and walk away with. So regardless if you are the one providing the experience OR you’re just there to take it in yourself- just remember the weight in which it’s worth. It can mean the world to someone.
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Almost 1 year today, a friend shared with me a quote that literally changed my life:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
- Mark Twain

The philosophy and motivation that is encapsulated in this quote is truly what I believe life is all about. That said, the photo you see below is myself and a friend of mine, Morgan. Recently, she had asked if I would donate my photography services to take photos at a 5k benefit race (supports brain cancer, www.headforthecure.org). The mere action of asking me to take photos prompted several thoughts in my head- much deeper than the sterile face value of just the simple one question.

Let me explain. Two years ago, the idea of “photography” was just a shelved hobby that seemed to be far from reality. It was “wish list” hobby- that required me to dedicate time I didn’t have. However, several things all happened in a short amount of time that made me realize I want the most out of life and am looking to spend my time where it makes the most impact. Mark Twain’s quote cites “Explore. Dream. Discover.” which was a motto I instantly adopted then and took off running with it. So I quickly figured out how to finance and purchase the camera and became as resourceful as I could in regards to learning as much as I could about photography (I’m an amateur at best, but I’m improving). I practiced, practiced, practiced (still am) and quickly realized how much I loved the challenge and joys of photography.

All that said- when my friend Morgan had asked me to take photos, it was a “come to fruition” moment that I’m proud of. Two years ago I had set forth personal goals and now have accomplished many of them, one of them being taking up photography as a hobby. Furthermore, taking the time to help others is now both an addiction and something I personally enjoy- and it provides me with a rich sense of fulfillment knowing I’m truly helping those in need (e.g. www.kcsweaterparty.com). It was an indirect compliment that I had matured my photography skills far enough along that Morgan asked for my services- and it’s even more fulfilling that I can take my new found hobby + skill and use it for good to help others.

So now I’ll turn this around to ask you- do you have your inspiration? Are you actively acting upon these and moving forward with your goals? I hope your answer is yes.

I’m excited to be here.

You should be too. Now you get out there. Explore. Dream. Discover.
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The idea or principle of “not having a plan in life” has been reiterated by multiple people the past couple of weeks. I remember at first I thought it was stupid advice, you need a plan, duh- right?  I heard this first at the BIG Omaha conference a couple weeks ago by Jason Fried of 37signals and then again tonight while watching Google’s CEO Eric Schmidt give the commencement address at Carnegie Mellon (worth your time, if you’ve got 11 minutes and 55 seconds). So what does this “do not have a plan” advice really mean? I wanted to take some time to reflect on this crazy notion.

In Eric’s speech, he says, “Live your life and forgo your plans- and you can also forgo fear.”

It’s important to not stop yourself from doing something because you’re unsure on it’s possible outcome. Not knowing how it will “end” shouldn’t be reason to stop you from trying it. Far too often do people cross things off their list or dismiss their ideas because they think of 1 negative possible outcome. Figure it out, don’t hold back from trying something, learn from it, tweak, then keep trying again.

Originally I thought the idea of “do not have a plan” was a ridiculous notion- but I’ve realized that I have adopted and practiced this myself already. Personally, when I started blogging, shooting my video blogs, trying out photography or started planning the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party benefit- I did not have experience, a road map with instructions, or even the slightest clue where it would end. And I still don’t. But I do have more information now than I did before- which has influenced what step to take next. More importantly, not knowing outcome to each of these activities didn’t stop me from trying.

For people who are linear thinkers and require rationale for everything, it’s hard to exercise this “no plan” mindset. But, I believe John Lennon got it right when he wrote, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”
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I went to the grocery store tonight and was extremely close to scratching the chicken breast from my list of things to buy for dinner — it was hard to crave chicken when this delicious treat was staring me right in the face. Look how HUGE this cupcake is! Glorious.

Things like this, while it may seem silly to get excited about — they remind me of a quote that’s actually the tag line for a co-worker’s mommy blog:

“…it’s all about the little things in life that make it good.”

I believe happiness in life is a moment which can take many forms; sometimes even as a delicious small cupcake

It is January 6th. Everyone is officially off the couch and back to their daily routines. This week most everyone will share or think about their own “New Years Resolutions”. Anyone who knows me will attest I’m a positive person — but a part of me is pessimistic about people’s attitudes when the New Year starts. Disclaimer, I know this blog post may completely contradict my previous post

It shouldn’t take an event like the New Year to make you make a change in your life.

Aristotle once said, “We are what we frequently do”. This plain obvious quote supports my argument that those changes and goals you have should be assessed frequently — not just at the beginning of the year.

Don’t put it off.

Time is finite.

Life is too short.

If you’re driving down a path you don’t like in your life, talk/think about it first do something about it NOW. If there is something you want to accomplish, have the passion and patience to dream and dream big. Have the patience to piece together “the ladder” in what it takes to get you there. Have the passion to follow through with doing what it takes to accomplish that dream.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve switched things up and tried something different if what I’m doing now isn’t working (work + personal life). Daily routines, organization of my desk, habits — the process for me goes something like this, “Well that didn’t work — so I’ll try this. [sigh] I failed at that so now I’ll try this, OK now this”. Rinse, wash and repeat.  I’m far from perfect myself, but I think being cognitive about it is important.

So don’t buy into this “New Years Resolutions” rubbish. Frequently assess what you need and want to change, then do it. And if you don’t know where to start, it’s OK to stumble into the first step, you don’t always have to understand how it’s going end or where it will go.

The greatest possession you have is the 24-hours in front of you. And there are 359 more “fresh starts” you have.  Get inspired.  Go do it now.
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If I were Stuart Scott on ESPN and I had to use some overly fancy adjectives to assess my performance and life in 2008, I’d call this my “breakout” or “reawakening” year. Most importantly, for the first time I found a sense of solidified purpose in my life (which is much different than faith). It’s shifted my outlook and gives me motivation daily. While I know this type of blog post may seem like just plain silly string — I can attest, when I finished writing this blog post, I felt confident I can obtain achieve each of these goals (and more) in 2009.

Things I’m proud of from 2008:

• Found a new sense of “purpose” in life
• Finally launched www.ramseymohsen.com, posted 121 entries
• Connected even closer with my family than every before
• Recorded and posted 85 friggin’ awesome video blogs
• Set the foundation for a successful annual benefit party, and raised $7,125
• Achieved several professional milestones @work
• Finally embraced being a photog as a “real deal” hobby

Things I want to achieve and do in the new year, 2009:

• Learn from brilliant people (and share what I learn)
• Continue to improve on my weaknesses @work
• Play more golf
• Improve upon my Project Management and planning skills @work + @home
• Create/edit/shoot more video blogs (and try new things with it)
• Stop trying to do it all myself
• Spend more time with my family
• Plan and organize an even better Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
• Listen
• Improve upon my photog skills from others and on my own
• Continue to discover my personal passions in life (and share them)

I’m pretty sure Oprah probably would read this blog post and tell me writing this is a healthy way to start 2009 — but what do you think? What’s your take on 2008? Are there things you are proud of and are there things you need to improve upon?

I highly recommend blogging yourself about it (email me or link it in the comments below) or just go through the process of thinking through it.  It’s worth it, trust me.

We become who we believe we are.
…bring it 2009, I’m going to knock it out of the park.
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