# Success King Marketing Inc — Full Content > Complete content index for LLM consumption > Generated: 2026-10-16 | Posts: 200 --- ## Home URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ Type: page Modified: 2026-10-16 Discover the Best eBooks, eCourses & Digital Products to Learn, Grow and Earn Online  We help beginners find proven digital tools, eeooks, expert insights, and step-by-step resources to improve their skills, mindset, and income. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to level up, we bring together carefully selected eBooks, ecourses, and digital products Blog Insight articles designed to help you move forward faster. BOOK CATEGORIES📘 Self-Improvement eBooks  |  💻 Online Courses & Skill Training  |  💰 Make Money Online Guides  |  🧠 Mindset & Productivity  | 📘 Health & Fitness Amazon Deals Ebook (1) ClickBank (1) Digital Marketing eBooks (2) eBusiness & eMarketing eBooks (8) Education eBooks (13) Health & Fitness Ebooks (6) Home & Family eBooks (5) Manifestation eBooks (4) Self Help Ebooks (9) Spirituality Ebooks (3) Startup A Business Ebooks (9) Uncategorized (1) What We OfferWhether you’re just starting your journey or looking to level up, we bring together carefully selected eBooks, online courses, and digital information products designed to help you move forward faster. Why Trust UsWe don’t just list products—we research, review, and recommend the Best eBooks, eCourses, info-products and digital resources that solve real problems. Our goal is simple: We help you make smarter decisions faster. Start HereGet access to our beginner-friendly Step by Step guides and discover the best tools to help you take your first step. Exploy Best eBooks eCourses Digital Products NowPOPULAR E-BOOKS  Sale! Add to cart / Details Kindness vs. Boundaries Guide for Parents & ProfessionalsEducation eBooks, Health & Fitness Ebooks, Home & Family eBooks, Manifestation eBooks, Self Help EbooksAdd to cart €60.00 Original price was: €60.00.€49.00Current price is: €49.00. Sale! Add to cart / Details The Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 2026Education eBooks, Health & Fitness Ebooks, Self Help EbooksAdd to cart €50.00 Original price was: €50.00.€45.00Current price is: €45.00. Sale! Add to cart / Details The Ultimate Guide to Thriving in Today’s Business.eBusiness & eMarketing eBooks, Education eBooks, Startup A Business EbooksAdd to cart €50.00 Original price was: €50.00.€45.00Current price is: €45.00. Sale! 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Add to cart / Details Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into RealityEducation eBooks, Health & Fitness Ebooks, Home & Family eBooks, Manifestation eBooks, Self Help EbooksAdd to cart €45.00 Original price was: €45.00.€30.00Current price is: €30.00. Sale! Add to cart / Details How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior!Education eBooks, Health & Fitness Ebooks, Home & Family eBooks, Manifestation eBooks, Self Help Ebooks, Spirituality Ebooks, Startup A Business EbooksAdd to cart €35.00 Original price was: €35.00.€25.00Current price is: €25.00. Testimonials I had no idea where to start when it came to making money online. I kept jumping from one video to another and never took action. What I liked about this platform is how simple everything is. I found a beginner-friendly affiliate marketing eBook, followed the steps, and within a few weeks I finally understood what I was doing. It’s not just a store—it actually helped me get started. Emma J. New York, - I originally came here looking for productivity resources, but I ended up finding much more. The self-improvement eBooks I downloaded helped me build better habits and stay consistent with my goals. What stands out is that the recommendations feel curated, not random. It saved me time and helped me focus on what actually works. Darien M. from Ireland, - I’ve bought digital products before and honestly wasted money on things that didn’t deliver. This site feels different. The product descriptions are clear, and I can quickly understand what I’m getting before I buy. I picked up an online course from the shop and it was exactly what I needed to start learning a new skill. Christine C. from Monaco This is brilliant. What I like most is how easy it is to discover useful products without feeling overwhelmed. Instead of searching all over the internet, I can browse here and find solid recommendations in one place. I found. Mastering Success: How Business & Investing eBooks Can Grow Your Wealth and Skills and high impacting eBooks, ClickBank products. The blog posts are awesome. they actually deliver real value. That doesn’t happen often. Deeu A. from Germany, - I’ve always wanted to make money online but didn’t know where to begin. Most websites made it feel complicated, but this one broke things down in a way that finally made sense. I downloaded a beginner guide from the shop and followed it step by step. Within a month, I had my first small result, which gave me the confidence to keep going. Sarah M. Manchester, UK, Your Content Goes Here What I appreciate most is how everything is organized. I was looking for ways to improve my skills without going back to school, and I found a few online courses here that were actually affordable and practical. The descriptions helped me choose the right one, and I’ve already started applying what I learned. Linda K. Toronto, Canada, Your Content Goes Here I’ve tried a few digital product platforms before, but this one stands out because it feels curated. I found a ClickBank product through one of the blog recommendations and it delivered exactly what it promised. That level of trust is rare online, and it’s why I keep coming back. David R. Austin, Texas, USA, Your Content Goes Here I came across this site while searching for productivity tools, and I’m glad I did. The eBooks I downloaded helped me improve my daily routine and stay focused on my goals. It’s not overwhelming like other sites—it actually guides you toward what you need. Aisha N. London, UK, Your Content Goes Here Before finding this platform, I felt stuck and overwhelmed by all the options online. What I like here is that everything feels simplified. I followed one of the blog guides and picked a recommended product, and it saved me so much time and confusion. It’s like having a shortcut to the right resources. Maria G. Madrid, Spain, Your Content Goes Here I’m someone who values practical results, not hype. After reading a few blog posts here, I decided to try one of the recommended digital products. The content was straightforward and actionable, and I was able to apply it almost immediately. That’s what makes the difference. James T. Sydney, Australia, Your Content Goes HereALL E-BOOKS  Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! Emotional Reactivity: Stuck in Survival Mode? Emotional Reactivity: Stuck in Survival Mode? €60.00 Original price was: €60.00.€35.00Current price is: €35.00. Add to cart Sale! Rated 2.00 out of 5 Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! How To Start A New Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide How To Start A New Business 2026: A Step-by-Step GuideRated 2.00 out of 5 €45.00 Original price was: €45.00.€35.00Current price is: €35.00. Add to cart Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior! How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior! €35.00 Original price was: €35.00.€25.00Current price is: €25.00. Add to cart Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! Kindness vs. Boundaries Guide for Parents & Professionals Kindness vs. Boundaries Guide for Parents & Professionals €60.00 Original price was: €60.00.€49.00Current price is: €49.00. Add to cart Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into Reality Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into Reality €45.00 Original price was: €45.00.€30.00Current price is: €30.00. Add to cart Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! Mastering The Art Of Investing Outstanding Guide Mastering The Art Of Investing Outstanding Guide €50.00 Original price was: €50.00.€39.00Current price is: €39.00. Add to cart Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! SEO Services: The Complete Guide for 2026 SEO Services: The Complete Guide for 2026 €65.00 Original price was: €65.00.€50.00Current price is: €50.00. Add to cart Sale! Add to cart / Details Quick View Sale! The AI Customer Journey Blueprint The AI Customer Journey Blueprint €35.00 Original price was: €35.00.€25.00Current price is: €25.00. Add to cart 1 2 Next --- ## New Plugin Hides WordPress 5 Upgrade Nags URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/new-plugin-hides-wordpress-5-upgrade-nags/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-15 Here’s a nice, simple plugin to use if you want to hide the “Update to WordPress 5” nag alert from your site’s dashboard. The post New Plugin Hides WordPress 5 Upgrade Nags appeared first on HighEdWebTech. If you’re like me, and you may be since you’re reading this post,  you get ideas for apps , websites and services all the time. I know I do. What I am bad at is actually executing these ideas. Sometimes I write a little code, other times I buy a domain name that would fit my idea and then life happens and before you know it I have a bunch of folders, some code and domain names but no real sites to speak of.  I’m trying to break that cycle. I worked in higher ed from 1998 to 2016. It was both the best and hardest career choice I could have made and it was awesome. I met so many awesome colleagues, team members, friends and more across that time. I left and went to the private sector for two years, but it wasn’t a great fit. At that point, I went full-time on my own at my digital agency, Gas Mark 8.  I kept looking for higher ed roles, interviewed for several (including a few full-day on campus interviews) but nothing went my way. What can you do — it happens. Over the last 6 years since I left higher ed, I’ve seen so many amazing people leave the industry. It started pre-pandemic, the last 3 years have really been hard on higher education and there’s been a large exodus of talent. There are a lot of reasons for that, and we know many of them (pay, remote work, career advancement, difficult environments, the big sea change in education, and so on.) There has been a very large brain drain, and that’s a bummer. I’m bummed because I love higher ed and it’s important. I don’t know what the future holds for it, but I believe in what its about. I have one child a year away from finishing college and one a year away from starting. They’re working with amazing faculty and staff and taking advantage of all the opportunities they can. It’s so critical as they get ready to go out into the world. Back in 2013 or 2014, I created a very quick and dirty job search website that provided links to the HR listing pages of colleges and universities around me in Cleveland, where I live. I was curious about what was out there, and made a simple tool. I shared it with some folks on my team, and added more cities like Erie and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was just for me mostly, and had very little in terms of design or usability. I did, however, notice that a few schools featured  RSS feeds, and I added a note in my code to someday build out a feature that would grab those job posts and show them on the page without needing another click. The idea nagged at me. I took me 7 or 8 years, but I finally built it. Before Christmas, I was going through some folders of code and old sites and found the old job site I made. “Finally,” I thought, “there has to be an easy way to build this.” In about 15 minutes, I spun up a WordPress dev site, installed some of the tools we use at Gas Mark 8 and got to work. I started with the last school I worked at (miss you, JCU) — it’s also where my son attends. I threw in their RSS feed and to my surprise, it worked. There were 15 jobs in a custom post type I created. Interesting… I continued to iterate on features and data structures. The goal in my mind was to build something I didn’t have to babysit. I wanted to add schools to it, import their posts and make sure the data goes to the right place. It started out well. I found more and more schools whose applicant tracking system (ATS) offered RSS or Atom feeds. A decent amount do but the vast majority of them to do not. Too many are closed systems, which is fine, but it stinks to not share that data. One thing that the plugins we have and the code I’ve written so far doesn’t do (except for a few tests) is scrape pages to get job postings. The ones I’ve tried to scape use the same system so I can re-use my code but many obfuscate their code and don’t let you make requests to data like JSON feeds (looking at you, Workday.) If anyone has written a scraper for any of these ATS sites, let me know. Once the jobs were coming in, the actual web site  needed a layout, design, UI and most importantly a name. Let me introduce you to CollegeAndUniversity.careers. Have you tried to find a good domain name lately? It’s difficult. After a few weeks of work and getting some help (thanks, Dylan!), it’s ready for use. I’ve polling about 90 schools and the site now has over 7,700 jobs. It polls schools daily, gets new jobs, edits existing job and deletes jobs that are no longer posted. We’ve created some cool searching ability (by keyword, state or both.) I think it would be cool to allow people to create job search alerts, but that’s down the road. I’ve got a nice feature list going. We also have a logo. I had one made awhile ago for another app (it’s on the list to build) and we all love it so it’s got a graduation cap now. Why an octopus? It’s got eight legs. Our agency also has an 8 in it. Made sense at the time. I’m thinking of calling it Tako. The site is built in WordPress and uses Elementor. I did the design in XD and we built it from there. It uses WP All Import Pro to poll all the schools and import the jobs. I wrote some PHP to scrape a few sites that didn’t have feeds. It’s OK but not the best. The site is hosted at Cloudways, where we are a Gold Agency Partner and are big fans. They’ve made our lives much easier. I’m sharing it here because there are still some folks who subscribe to this blog via email so I hope you’ll open it and visit it. You may still work in higher ed, so I’d love your feedback and ideas on how to make this the best job search tool possible. If you have a second, would you mind checking it out? Better yet, if you know of someone who is searching for the next stop in their career, please share it with them. We’re adding new schools every day and if just one person finds an amazing opportunity from the site, then all the work and time will have been worth it. Me? I’m glad to get one of these ideas out of my head and out there into the world. Thanks and Happy New Year Career! The post I decided to build a job search site appeared first on HighEdWebTech. --- ## Why are so many people’s marketing lists stale? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-are-so-many-peoples-marketing-lists-stale/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-15 If your systems don’t talk to each other, you could be sending mixed messages to your potential customers and dissauding them from buying from you. The post Why are so many people’s marketing lists stale? appeared first on HighEdWebTech. If you’re like me, and you may be since you’re reading this post,  you get ideas for apps , websites and services all the time. I know I do. What I am bad at is actually executing these ideas. Sometimes I write a little code, other times I buy a domain name that would fit my idea and then life happens and before you know it I have a bunch of folders, some code and domain names but no real sites to speak of.  I’m trying to break that cycle. I worked in higher ed from 1998 to 2016. It was both the best and hardest career choice I could have made and it was awesome. I met so many awesome colleagues, team members, friends and more across that time. I left and went to the private sector for two years, but it wasn’t a great fit. At that point, I went full-time on my own at my digital agency, Gas Mark 8.  I kept looking for higher ed roles, interviewed for several (including a few full-day on campus interviews) but nothing went my way. What can you do — it happens. Over the last 6 years since I left higher ed, I’ve seen so many amazing people leave the industry. It started pre-pandemic, the last 3 years have really been hard on higher education and there’s been a large exodus of talent. There are a lot of reasons for that, and we know many of them (pay, remote work, career advancement, difficult environments, the big sea change in education, and so on.) There has been a very large brain drain, and that’s a bummer. I’m bummed because I love higher ed and it’s important. I don’t know what the future holds for it, but I believe in what its about. I have one child a year away from finishing college and one a year away from starting. They’re working with amazing faculty and staff and taking advantage of all the opportunities they can. It’s so critical as they get ready to go out into the world. Back in 2013 or 2014, I created a very quick and dirty job search website that provided links to the HR listing pages of colleges and universities around me in Cleveland, where I live. I was curious about what was out there, and made a simple tool. I shared it with some folks on my team, and added more cities like Erie and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was just for me mostly, and had very little in terms of design or usability. I did, however, notice that a few schools featured  RSS feeds, and I added a note in my code to someday build out a feature that would grab those job posts and show them on the page without needing another click. The idea nagged at me. I took me 7 or 8 years, but I finally built it. Before Christmas, I was going through some folders of code and old sites and found the old job site I made. “Finally,” I thought, “there has to be an easy way to build this.” In about 15 minutes, I spun up a WordPress dev site, installed some of the tools we use at Gas Mark 8 and got to work. I started with the last school I worked at (miss you, JCU) — it’s also where my son attends. I threw in their RSS feed and to my surprise, it worked. There were 15 jobs in a custom post type I created. Interesting… I continued to iterate on features and data structures. The goal in my mind was to build something I didn’t have to babysit. I wanted to add schools to it, import their posts and make sure the data goes to the right place. It started out well. I found more and more schools whose applicant tracking system (ATS) offered RSS or Atom feeds. A decent amount do but the vast majority of them to do not. TMany are closed systems, which is fine, but it stinks to not share that data. One thing that the plugins we have and the code I’ve written so far doesn’t do (except for a few tests) is scrape pages to get job postings. The ones I’ve tried to scape use the same system so I can re-use my code but many obfuscate their code and don’t let you make requests to data like JSON feeds (looking at you, Workday.) If anyone has written a scraper for any of these ATS sites, let me know. Once the jobs were coming in, the actual web site  needed a layout, design, UI and most importantly a name. Let me introduce you to CollegeAndUniversity.careers. Have you tried to find a good domain name lately? It’s difficult. After a few weeks of work and getting some help (thanks, Dylan!), it’s ready for use. I’ve polling about 90 schools and the site now has over 7,700 jobs. It polls schools daily, gets new jobs, edits existing job and deletes jobs that are no longer posted. We’ve created some cool searching ability (by keyword, state or both.) I think it would be cool to allow people to create job search alerts, but that’s down the road. I’ve got a nice feature list going. We also have a logo. I had one made awhile ago for another app (it’s on the list to build) and we all love it so it’s got a graduation cap now. Why an octopus? It’s got eight legs. Our agency also has an 8 in it. Made sense at the time. I’m thinking of calling it Tako. The site is built in WordPress and uses Elementor. I did the design in XD and we built it from there. It uses WP All Import Pro to poll all the schools and import the jobs. I wrote some PHP to scrape a few sites that didn’t have feeds. It’s OK but not the best. The site is hosted at Cloudways, where we are a Gold Agency Partner and are big fans. They’ve made our lives much easier. I’m sharing it here because there are still some folks who subscribe to this blog via email so I hope you’ll open it and visit it. You may still work in higher ed, so I’d love your feedback and ideas on how to make this the best job search tool possible. If you have a second, would you mind checking it out? Better yet, if you know of someone who is searching for the next stop in their career, please share it with them. We’re adding new schools every day and if just one person finds an amazing opportunity from the site, then all the work and time will have been worth it. Me? I’m glad to get one of these ideas out of my head and out there into the world. Thanks and Happy New Year Career! The post I decided to build a job search site appeared first on HighEdWebTech. --- ## Designed for a Dead Language: What Language Apps Reveal About Bad Product Design URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/designed-for-a-dead-language-what-language-apps-reveal-about-bad-product-design/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-11 How a centuries-old teaching method shaped modern language apps—and what entrepreneurs can learn about designing digital products that solve the right problems. Author: Awung NgangWebsite: Success King Marketing Inc.Category: Blog Insights | Digital Learning | Product Design Introduction: When Old Ideas Get a Digital Makeover What if the biggest problem with some modern language apps isn’t their technology, but the centuries-old idea behind them? Imagine putting a horse carriage engine inside a modern electric car. The exterior might look futuristic, but the underlying design would still limit what the vehicle could achieve. Something similar happened in language education. Many modern learning tools use sophisticated technology to deliver exercises built around an older teaching tradition: memorizing grammar rules, translating sentences, and demonstrating knowledge through tests. Understanding how this happened reveals a powerful lesson for digital entrepreneurs: a better interface cannot compensate for a product designed around the wrong outcome. Let’s explore the history, examine the limitations, and uncover practical lessons for building digital products that deliver genuine value. 1. The Historical Mistake That Shaped Language Education In eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Europe, schools needed methods that could teach large numbers of students and assess their progress consistently. Grammar and translation offered a structured approach that worked particularly well for written examinations. Johann Valentin Meidinger’s French grammar textbook became influential, with 37 editions published by 1857. The grammar-translation approach subsequently became widespread in European language education. [1] The method made sense for certain objectives, especially reading classical texts and demonstrating grammatical knowledge. But when applied to living languages, it could leave a crucial gap: knowing the rules did not necessarily mean being able to communicate spontaneously. The historical lesson isn’t that grammar is useless. It’s that a method suited to one purpose can become inadequate when the purpose changes. Practical takeaway: Before building a product, define the outcome users actually want—not merely the activities you can conveniently measure. [Historical language textbook transitioning into a modern language-learning app.] 2. Knowing the Rules Isn’t the Same as Using the Skill You can memorize hundreds of vocabulary words and still freeze when someone asks you a simple question in another language. This distinction between knowing about a skill and performing it matters. Linguist Stephen Krashen explored the difference between conscious language learning and the more implicit processes involved in acquiring language in his 1982 work on second-language acquisition. His framework remains influential, although researchers have debated aspects of his theory. [2] In everyday terms, studying rules and using a language in real conversations are related but distinct activities. The same principle applies beyond education. Reading about marketing doesn’t automatically make someone a skilled marketer. Watching tutorials about entrepreneurship doesn’t guarantee that someone can build a viable business. Practical takeaway: Pair learning materials with opportunities to practice, receive feedback, and solve realistic problems. 3. How Modern Apps Repackage Old Assumptions Today’s digital learning products can make education more convenient, engaging, and accessible. Features such as reminders, streaks, interactive exercises, and spaced-repetition flashcards can support regular practice. However, engagement is not identical to achievement. A learner might complete lessons every day without becoming comfortable in an unscripted conversation. Likewise, a customer might spend hours inside a business platform without making meaningful progress toward a business goal. This doesn’t mean every language app fails or that traditional exercises have no value. It means the product’s success metrics must match its promised outcome. Practical takeaway: Track meaningful results alongside activity. For an educational product, that could mean practical skill assessments, real-world application, or progress toward a clearly defined learning goal. [: Split-screen visual comparing a completed lesson streak with a real-world conversation.] 4. The Product Design Trap: Measuring What Is Easy Here is where the story becomes especially relevant to digital entrepreneurs. It is often easier to count clicks, downloads, completed lessons, and daily visits than to measure whether customers have solved their original problem. These numbers can be useful, but they are proxies—not proof of value. A digital course might generate impressive enrollment figures while students struggle to apply its lessons. An eBook might attract thousands of downloads but fail to help readers take action. A marketing tool might boast numerous features without making the user’s workflow easier. The danger is optimizing a product for the dashboard instead of the customer. Practical takeaway: Ask customers what changed after using your product. Combine usage statistics with feedback, completion outcomes, and evidence of practical improvement. 5. Build Digital Products Around Real Human Needs The alternative isn’t to abandon structure, automation, or measurement. It’s to use those tools in service of a meaningful outcome. For language learning, that could mean combining vocabulary practice with listening, speaking, contextual examples, and conversation. For an online business, it could mean pairing an instructional eBook with worksheets, implementation checklists, templates, and practical examples. For a digital platform, it could mean helping users move from discovering a resource to applying it successfully. This is an opportunity for SKMarkets Inc. to emphasize the connection between digital resources and practical action through its eBooks, eCourses, information products, and downloadable materials. A resource becomes more useful when customers understand not only what it teaches, but also how to apply it. Practical takeaway: Design every product around a simple question: What should the customer be able to do after using this? [: Entrepreneur applying an online course lesson using a laptop, workbook, and practical business checklist.] 6. The Future Belongs to Products That Deliver Outcomes Technology will continue to change how people learn, work, and build businesses. Artificial intelligence, interactive platforms, and personalized learning experiences create new possibilities. But technological sophistication alone doesn’t guarantee a better experience. The strongest products combine convenience with relevance. They remove unnecessary friction, help users practice essential skills, and make progress easier to understand. For entrepreneurs, this means testing assumptions rather than treating them as permanent truths. Listen to customers, observe where they struggle, and improve the product based on what genuinely helps them succeed. Practical takeaway: Review your product regularly. Identify one major customer challenge, test a practical improvement, and evaluate whether the change produces a better outcome. What This Means for Success King Marketing Inc. At Success King Marketing Inc., the opportunity is to make digital resources more than information sitting on a screen. The goal is to help users turn knowledge into informed decisions, practical skills, and meaningful progress. Explore SKMarkets Inc. for digital resources and business insights, and look for opportunities to connect what you learn with what you do next. For entrepreneurs, the broader message is simple: don’t just build products that people use. Build products that help people accomplish something worthwhile. Conclusion: Don’t Digitize the Wrong Idea The history of language education shows how an approach developed for one purpose can persist long after its limitations become apparent. Modern technology can improve an old method without necessarily solving its underlying problem. The lesson extends to every corner of the digital economy. Engagement matters, but outcomes matter more. Features matter, but usefulness matters more. And innovation means more than making an existing process look modern. For creators, marketers, educators, and entrepreneurs, the challenge is to question inherited assumptions and design around real human needs. The next breakthrough may not come from adding another feature. It may come from asking whether you’re solving the right problem in the first place. Internal Links for SKMarkets Inc. Add these links where the corresponding pages exist on your website. The suggested paths below are placeholders until you confirm the actual URLs. Digital resources: Explore SKMarkets Inc. Digital entrepreneurship: [Digital Entrepreneurship Guide] Online marketing: [Digital Marketing Strategies] Learning resources: [eBooks and eCourses] Related Posts to Publish or Link Why Customer Outcomes Matter More Than Website Traffic How to Turn Digital Knowledge Into Practical Business Skills The Difference Between Learning a Skill and Mastering It How to Build Digital Products People Actually Need Engagement vs. Results: The Metrics Every Online Entrepreneur Should Understand [“Design for Results” message.] References [1] Howatt, A. P. R., and related historical scholarship on the grammar-translation method. See The Grammar–Translation Method overview, ScienceDirect Topics: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/social-sciences/translation-method [2] Krashen, Stephen D. (1982). “Acquiring a Second Language.” World Englishes, 1(3), 97–101. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-971X.1982.tb00476.x Editorial note: This article is an interpretive discussion of language education and product design, not a claim that every language app uses the same method or that grammar instruction is inherently ineffective. --- ## Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill for Consultants URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-ai-is-becoming-a-survival-skill-for-consultants/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-11 Discover why AI is becoming a survival skill for consultants. Learn how to stay competitive, boost productivity, & future-proof your carreer Source: Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill for Consultants – Success King Marketing Inc --- ## Creative Coding AI Guide for Creators Marketers & Non-Techs URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/vibe-coding-basics-guide-for-creators-marketers-non-techs/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-09 A Practical Beginner’s Quick Guide to AI Coding Tools, Setup, Security, Prompting, and Small Projects Author: Success King Marketing Inc. Website: https://skmarketsinc.com   Creative coding ai guide for beginners, from someone who isn’t a developer. The tools, the setup, the security basics, and what to build first as a creator or marketer. [] A non-technical creator using an AI coding assistant to build a simple personal productivity app. Creative Coding Basics Quick Guide Where to Vibe Code: The Toolkit You Need You can vibe code with very little. Before choosing the AI tools you’ll use, decide where to build them. You don’t have to host tools online—they can live entirely on your device. The trade-off: they’re harder to open on a phone and may require a more advanced AI tool. Two options: Browser Use an online environment where much of the setup is handled for you. Good for beginners since you don’t need to understand every backend detail. Laptop Work locally for more control over files, projects, code, version history, and your development environment. Neither is inherently better. For beginners, pick the option that makes the project easiest to understand while keeping your work organized and backed up. Get Access to Full Beginner AI Guide; Vibe Coding Basics — Quick Guide for Creators, Marketers & Non-Techs   Continue Learning With Success King Marketing Inc. Learn Today. Build Tomorrow. Explore our eBooks, Blog Insights, digital resources, and selected affiliate opportunities at: https://skmarketsinc.com Professional creator at “Learn Today. Build Tomorrow.” call-to-action. Author: Success King Marketing Inc. Website: https://skmarketsinc.com --- ## I am a creative. URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/i-am-a-creative/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 I am a creative. What I do is alchemy. It is a mystery. I do not so much do it, as let it be done through me. I am a creative. Not all creative people like this label. Not all see themselves this way. Some creative people see science in what they do. That is their truth, and I respect it. Maybe I even envy them, a little. But my process is different—my being is different. Apologizing and qualifying in advance is a distraction. That’s what my brain does to sabotage me. I set it aside for now. I can come back later to apologize and qualify. After I’ve said what I came to say. Which is hard enough.  Except when it is easy and flows like a river of wine. Sometimes it does come that way. Sometimes what I need to create comes in an instant. I have learned not to say it at that moment, because if you admit that sometimes the idea just comes and it is the best idea and you know it is the best idea, they think you don’t work hard enough. Sometimes I work and work and work until the idea comes. Sometimes it comes instantly and I don’t tell anyone for three days. Sometimes I’m so excited by the idea that came instantly that I blurt it out, can’t help myself. Like a boy who found a prize in his Cracker Jacks. Sometimes I get away with this. Sometimes other people agree: yes, that is the best idea. Most times they don’t and I regret having  given way to enthusiasm.  Enthusiasm is best saved for the meeting where it will make a difference. Not the casual get-together that precedes that meeting by two other meetings. Nobody knows why we have all these meetings. We keep saying we’re doing away with them, but then just finding other ways to have them. Sometimes they are even good. But other times they are a distraction from the actual work. The proportion between when meetings are useful, and when they are a pitiful distraction, varies, depending on what you do and where you do it. And who you are and how you do it. Again I digress. I am a creative. That is the theme. Sometimes many hours of hard and patient work produce something that is barely serviceable. Sometimes I have to accept that and move on to the next project. Don’t ask about process. I am a creative. I am a creative. I don’t control my dreams. And I don’t control my best ideas. I can hammer away, surround myself with facts or images, and sometimes that works. I can go for a walk, and sometimes that works. I can be making dinner and there’s a Eureka having nothing to do with sizzling oil and bubbling pots. Often I know what to do the instant I wake up. And then, almost as often, as I become conscious and part of the world again, the idea that would have saved me turns to vanishing dust in a mindless wind of oblivion. For creativity, I believe, comes from that other world. The one we enter in dreams, and perhaps, before birth and after death. But that’s for poets to wonder, and I am not a poet. I am a creative. And it’s for theologians to mass armies about in their creative world that they insist is real. But that is another digression. And a depressing one. Maybe on a much more important topic than whether I am a creative or not. But still a digression from what I came here to say. Sometimes the process is avoidance. And agony. You know the cliché about the tortured artist? It’s true, even when the artist (and let’s put that noun in quotes) is trying to write a soft drink jingle, a callback in a tired sitcom, a budget request. Some people who hate being called creative may be closeted creatives, but that’s between them and their gods. No offense meant. Your truth is true, too. But mine is for me.  Creatives recognize creatives. Creatives recognize creatives like queers recognize queers, like real rappers recognize real rappers, like cons know cons. Creatives feel massive respect for creatives. We love, honor, emulate, and practically deify the great ones. To deify any human is, of course, a tragic mistake. We have been warned. We know better. We know people are just people. They squabble, they are lonely, they regret their most important decisions, they are poor and hungry, they can be cruel, they can be just as stupid as we can, because, like us, they are clay. But. But. But they make this amazing thing. They birth something that did not exist before them, and could not exist without them. They are the mothers of ideas. And I suppose, since it’s just lying there, I have to add that they are the mothers of invention. Ba dum bum! OK, that’s done. Continue. Creatives belittle our own small achievements, because we compare them to those of the great ones. Beautiful animation! Well, I’m no Miyazaki. Now THAT is greatness. That is greatness straight from the mind of God. This half-starved little thing that I made? It more or less fell off the back of the turnip truck. And the turnips weren’t even fresh. Creatives knows that, at best, they are Salieri. Even the creatives who are Mozart believe that.  I am a creative. I haven’t worked in advertising in 30 years, but in my nightmares, it’s my former creative directors who judge me. And they are right to do so. I am too lazy, too facile, and when it real --- ## Design Dialects: Breaking the Rules, Not the System URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/design-dialects-breaking-the-rules-not-the-system/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 “Language is not merely a set of unrelated sounds, clauses, rules, and meanings; it is a totally coherent system bound to context and behavior.” — Kenneth L. Pike The web has accents. So should our design systems. Design Systems as Living Languages Design systems aren’t component libraries—they’re living languages. Tokens are phonemes, components are words, patterns are phrases, layouts are sentences. The conversations we build with users become the stories our products tell. But here’s what we’ve forgotten: the more fluently a language is spoken, the more accents it can support without losing meaning. English in Scotland differs from English in Sydney, yet both are unmistakably English. The language adapts to context while preserving core meaning. This couldn’t be more obvious to me, a Brazilian Portuguese speaker, who learned English with an American accent, and lives in Sydney. Our design systems must work the same way. Rigid adherence to visual rules creates brittle systems that break under contextual pressure. Fluent systems bend without breaking. Consistency becomes a prison The promise of design systems was simple: consistent components would accelerate development and unify experiences. But as systems matured and products grew more complex, that promise has become a prison. Teams file “exception” requests by the hundreds. Products launch with workarounds instead of system components. Designers spend more time defending consistency than solving user problems. Our design systems must learn to speak dialects. A design dialect is a systematic adaptation of a design system that maintains core principles while developing new patterns for specific contexts. Unlike one-off customizations or brand themes, dialects preserve the system’s essential grammar while expanding its vocabulary to serve different users, environments, or constraints. When Perfect Consistency Fails At Booking.com, I learned this lesson the hard way. We A/B-tested everything—color, copy, button shapes, even logo colors. As a professional with a graphic design education and experience building brand style guides, I found this shocking. While everyone fell in love with Airbnb’s pristine design system, Booking grew into a giant without ever considering visual consistency.   The chaos taught me something profound: consistency isn’t ROI; solved problems are. At Shopify. Polaris () was our crown jewel—a mature design language perfect for merchants on laptops. As a product team, we were expected to adopt Polaris as-is. Then my fulfillment team hit an “Oh, Ship!” moment, as we faced the challenge of building an app for warehouse pickers using our interface on shared, battered Android scanners in dim aisles, wearing thick gloves, scanning dozens of items per minute, many with limited levels of English understanding. Task completion with standard Polaris: 0%. Every component that worked beautifully for merchants failed completely for pickers. White backgrounds created glare. 44px tap targets were invisible to gloved fingers. Sentence-case labels took too long to parse. Multi-step flows confused non-native speakers. We faced a choice: abandon Polaris entirely, or teach it to speak warehouse. The Birth of a Dialect We chose evolution over revolution. Working within Polaris’s core principles—clarity, efficiency, consistency—we developed what we now call a design dialect: ConstraintFluent MoveRationaleGlare & low lightDark surfaces + light textReduce glare on low-DPI screensGloves & haste90px tap targets (~2cm)Accommodate thick glovesMultilingualSingle-task screens, plain languageReduce cognitive load Result: Task completion jumped from 0% to 100%. Onboarding time dropped from three weeks to one shift. This wasn’t customization or theming—this was a dialect: a systematic adaptation that maintained Polaris’s core grammar while developing new vocabulary for a specific context. Polaris hadn’t failed; it had learned to speak warehouse. The Flexibility Framework At Atlassian, working on the Jira platform—itself a system within the larger Atlassian system—I pushed for formalizing this insight. With dozens of products shari --- ## User Research Is Storytelling URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/user-research-is-storytelling/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 Ever since I was a boy, I’ve been fascinated with movies. I loved the characters and the excitement—but most of all the stories. I wanted to be an actor. And I believed that I’d get to do the things that Indiana Jones did and go on exciting adventures. I even dreamed up ideas for movies that my friends and I could make and star in. But they never went any further. I did, however, end up working in user experience (UX). Now, I realize that there’s an element of theater to UX—I hadn’t really considered it before, but user research is storytelling. And to get the most out of user research, you need to tell a good story where you bring stakeholders—the product team and decision makers—along and get them interested in learning more. Think of your favorite movie. More than likely it follows a three-act structure that’s commonly seen in storytelling: the setup, the conflict, and the resolution. The first act shows what exists today, and it helps you get to know the characters and the challenges and problems that they face. Act two introduces the conflict, where the action is. Here, problems grow or get worse. And the third and final act is the resolution. This is where the issues are resolved and the characters learn and change. I believe that this structure is also a great way to think about user research, and I think that it can be especially helpful in explaining user research to others. Use storytelling as a structure to do research It’s sad to say, but many have come to see research as being expendable. If budgets or timelines are tight, research tends to be one of the first things to go. Instead of investing in research, some product managers rely on designers or—worse—their own opinion to make the “right” choices for users based on their experience or accepted best practices. That may get teams some of the way, but that approach can so easily miss out on solving users’ real problems. To remain user-centered, this is something we should avoid. User research elevates design. It keeps it on track, pointing to problems and opportunities. Being aware of the issues with your product and reacting to them can help you stay ahead of your competitors. In the three-act structure, each act corresponds to a part of the process, and each part is critical to telling the whole story. Let’s look at the different acts and how they align with user research. Act one: setup The setup is all about understanding the background, and that’s where foundational research comes in. Foundational research (also called generative, discovery, or initial research) helps you understand users and identify their problems. You’re learning about what exists today, the challenges users have, and how the challenges affect them—just like in the movies. To do foundational research, you can conduct contextual inquiries or diary studies (or both!), which can help you start to identify problems as well as opportunities. It doesn’t need to be a huge investment in time or money. Erika Hall writes about minimum viable ethnography, which can be as simple as spending 15 minutes with a user and asking them one thing: “‘Walk me through your day yesterday.’ That’s it. Present that one request. Shut up and listen to them for 15 minutes. Do your damndest to keep yourself and your interests out of it. Bam, you’re doing ethnography.” According to Hall, “[This] will probably prove quite illuminating. In the highly unlikely case that you didn’t learn anything new or useful, carry on with enhanced confidence in your direction.”   This makes total sense to me. And I love that this makes user research so accessible. You don’t need to prepare a lot of documentation; you can just recruit participants and do it! This can yield a wealth of information about your users, and it’ll help you better understand them and what’s going on in their lives. That’s really what act one is all about: understanding where users are coming from.  Jared Spool talks about the importance of foundational research and how it should form the bulk of your research. If you can draw from any additional user data that you can get your hands on, such as surveys or analytics, that can supplement what you’ve heard in the foundational studies or even point to areas that need further investigation. Together, all this data paints a clearer picture of the state of things and all its shortcomings. And that’s the beginning of a compelling story. It’s the point in the plot where you realize that the main characters—or the users in this case—are facing challenges that they need to overcome. Like in the movies, this is where you start to build empathy for the characters and root for them to succeed. And hopefully stakeholders are now doing the same. Their sympathy may be with their business, which could be losing money because users can’t complete certain tasks. Or maybe they do empathize with users’ struggles. Either way, act one is your initial hook to get the stakeholders interested and invested. Once stakeholders begin to understand the value of foundational research, that can open d --- ## Can You Schedule Substack Notes? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/can-you-schedule-substack-notes/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 Yes, you can schedule Substack Notes. Learn the two methods; via Substack and Buffer.(image) Yes, you can schedule Substack Notes. You can do it in two ways: directly in Substack or through Buffer, which lets you plan Notes on the same calendar as your other channels, send the same Note to LinkedIn, Threads, X, and Bluesky, and see which Notes brought in subscribers. Both are free. We’ll walk through how it works, where Substack's built-in scheduler falls short, and what I've learned from scheduling a Note every day this month for Buffer's own publication. Jump to a section: How to schedule a Note inside Substack How to schedule Substack Notes with Buffer What I've learned from posting a Note a day Substack Notes scheduling FAQ Pick a time and let it post More Substack resources How to schedule a Note inside Substack Substack added native scheduling for Notes on March 23, 2026, on web, iOS, and Android. Before that, the only options were a third-party extension or posting manually. Here's how it works on the web: Open Substack and click the plus + button, then Note (or Create → Note if you’re on your profile) to start a new Note. (image) (image) Write the Note as you normally would. You can add images, links, video, and create polls. (image) Click the calendar icon at the bottom of the composer. Pick a date and time. Substack uses your local time zone. (image) Click Save, then Schedule. On the iOS and Android apps, tap the plus + button to start a Note, write it, then tap the three dot ⋯ menu and choose Schedule. (image) (image) (image) Every scheduled Note lands in your Drafts, with the publish time shown underneath. You can open one from there to edit it or change the time before it goes out. Substack lets you schedule up to three months ahead. What the native scheduler doesn't do There's no calendar view, so you're reading a list of drafts rather than seeing your week of planned content. You can also only schedule one Note at a time. And you can't send the same Note to another platform, and there's no per-Note reporting beyond the likes, replies, and restacks you can see on the Note itself. For a writer posting a couple of Notes a week, this is fine, great even. But once Notes become a daily habit, or one of several channels you're keeping up with, you may start to want more. And this is where Buffer comes in. How to schedule Substack Notes with Buffer Buffer's Substack integration is built on Substack's official API, and it treats your Substack account like any other channel: connect it once, and Notes show up on the same calendar and in the same composer as your LinkedIn, Threads, X, Instagram, and Bluesky posts. Scheduled Notes publish directly at the time you set. There's no reminder step or "finish this in the Substack app" notification. Log in to Buffer (or create a free account) and go to Channels → Connect a channel. (image) (image) Choose Substack and sign in to authorize Buffer. (image) Click Create Post, select your Substack channel, and write your Note. You can add images, a link, or a video. (image) If you want the same Note to go out to LinkedIn, Threads, X, or Bluesky, select those channels too and tweak each version until you’re satisified. (image) Pick a time (or use one of your set posting slots) and click Schedule. (image) Once a Note is live, Buffer's analytics show impressions, engagement, follows, as well as how many free and paid subscribers each Note brought in. (image) Because your other channels sit in the same dashboard, you can put a Note next to the LinkedIn version of the same idea and compare performance as well. Two more ways to use Substack in Buffer You can add your Substack publication as a feed in Buffer, which pulls your published posts in --- ## The 11 Best Social Media Management Tools in 2026 — Tried + Tested URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-11-best-social-media-management-tools-in-2026-tried-tested/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 The 11 best social media management tools for 2026, tried and tested by a social media marketer + creator — from free creator picks to enterprise platforms, with pricing and who each is for.(image) Managing multiple social media platforms — whether for yourself or for a brand — means juggling a lot at once. On any given day, you are creating posts, repurposing content, staying on top of trends, reviewing detailed analytics, and more. If you’re a creator or a small business owner managing your social media presence yourself, all of this is in addition to running your business. Phew! The good news: there are plenty of social media management tools that can lighten the load — and maybe even make the work feel… less like work? The social media management tools on this list are the ones I recommend to creators, marketers, agency owners, and my mates. But why should you care what I have to say? Well, I'm a journalist turned content marketer and creator. I've managed social media platforms for tabloids, lifestyle magazines, SaaS tech brands, and, of course, myself. I have 30K+ followers across TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, YouTube, and X. Plus, I am obsessed with tools (seriously, it's my weird ADHD hyperfixation). So when I tell you I have been around the block with social media management tools, I'm not kidding! 🤓 So if you're on the hunt for a social media management tool to make your work online just a little smoother (and more fun!), you're in the right place! If you're just here for a quick recommendation, here's a summary: Key takeaways Best overall for creators and small-medium businesses: Buffer — per-channel pricing from $6/mo and a free plan for up to 3 channels. Best for enterprise teams: Sprinklr and Sprout Social handle the heavy social listening and influencer work, but both are on the pricier end, so they only make sense at real scale. Best for Pinterest: Tailwind — a purpose-built, official Pinterest partner from $29.99/mo. Best for B2B: Oktopost — campaign-tagged posts and buyer-journey tracking (pricing on request). Best if you have a Substack: Buffer. Buffer is one of the few platforms that supports Substack Notes. Best for DM and comment automation: Manychat — 24/7 chat automation across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok (beta), and WhatsApp from $14/mo. Watch the scaling cost: pricing is usually per user or per channel, so check what it'll cost you 12 months from now, not just right now. Entry plans run $6–$30/mo; enterprise tools reach $199/mo per seat or custom quotes. Jump to a section: What are social media management tools? Comparison table of the 11 best social media management tools 1. Buffer 2. Hootsuite 3. Tailwind 4. SocialPilot 5. Zoho Social 6. Sprout Social 7. Oktopost 8. Later 9. Socialinsider 10. Manychat 11. Sprinklr What should you look for in social media management apps? FAQs about social media management tools More social media management resources What are social media management tools? Social media management tools are apps that let you plan, schedule, publish, engage with, and analyze content across multiple social networks from a single dashboard — instead of logging in and out of each platform separately. Most combine scheduling, a handy unified inbox for comments and DMs, and analytics, and they range from free creator plans to enterprise suites with social listening and CRM built in. A good social media management tool is so much more than just a hefty set of features. It's software that you actually want to use every single day. Comparison table of the 11 best social media management tools These are 11 top social media management tools. They vary from beginner-friendly tools to enterprise-level platforms requiring deep analytics and CRM integration. Whatever your needs, I can pretty much guarantee this list has got you covered. Here's a quick summary: .smm-table-wrap { overflow-x: auto; margin: 1.5rem 0; font-family: Figtree, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, sans-serif; } .smm-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 0.95rem; line-height: 1.45; color: #1e1b2e; } .smm-table caption { caption-side: top; text-align: left; font-weight: 700; font-size: 1.05rem; padding: 0 0 0.75rem; color: #1e1b2e; } .smm-table thead th { background: #f4f1fb; text-align: left; font-weight: 700; padding: 0.75rem 0.9rem; border-bottom: 2px solid #d9d2f0; white-space: nowrap; } .smm-table tbody th { text-align: left; font-weight: 700; padding: 0.7rem 0.9rem; border-bottom: 1px solid #ece9f5; white-space: nowrap; } .smm-table tbody td { padding: 0.7rem 0.9rem; border-bottom: 1px solid #ece9f5; verti --- ## What You Need to Know About Collaborative Posts on LinkedIn URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-collaborative-posts-on-linkedin/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 LinkedIn just launched Collaborative Posts. Here’s everything we know so far.(image) I spotted a post in my LinkedIn morning scroll from Austin Null — and it stopped me in my tracks because it had two names at the top instead of one. So I commented: is that what I think it is? He said it was Then Mya Shell, who I'd done a collab-style post for brand partnership the week before (ironically!), tagged me on LinkedIn's own announcement: Collaborative Posts are coming. The short version: soon, two or more people, plus LinkedIn Pages (!), can share one post together, with every collaborator listed at the top. It's in beta with creators and brands now (I guess I missed my invite in the mail) and will roll out over the coming months. As someone who has been using collab posts on Instagram forever and will get a lot of use out of this feature on LinkedIn, I figured I'd write up everything we know so far. If you've used Instagram's collab posts, you know the shape. On LinkedIn, where your name next to a brand carries professional weight, the stakes are even higher. Here's what they are, how they'll work, and why they matter most for the creator–brand relationship. What is a LinkedIn Collaborative Post? A LinkedIn Collaborative Post lets two or more accounts (people and pages) publish the same post together. Every collaborator's name sits at the top, and the post lands in all of their networks at once, not just the original author's. Quick note: this isn't the same as LinkedIn's Collaborative Articles, the AI-prompted explainers you get invited to "add your perspective" to. Collaborative posts are about co-authoring one post with people you’re connected with. This is also a step above tagging/mentioning. All participants get equal credit, and the post will appear in all their followers' feeds, giving the post way more mileage. How LinkedIn Collaborative Posts work LinkedIn has confirmed the basics in a help article. The setup is an invite-and-accept flow, much like Instagram. One account creates the post and invites collaborators, which can be personal profiles or pages. Until an invited account accepts, no one sees them listed on the post. Once they accept, every collaborator's name appears at the top, and the post shows up across all their networks. Collaborating as a page works a little differently: a super admin has to be in the loop. They can allow members and other pages to collaborate with the page, and they get notified of invitations as long as collaboration notifications are switched on (Me → Settings → Notifications → Collaborations). How to create a collab post on LinkedIn Start a post as you normally would and look in the top bar for the option to add a collaborator. You can add up to 5 per post. From your profile, go to Me → Settings → Notifications → Collaborations. If you run a page, make sure a super admin does this too, because a Page can't appear as a collaborator until someone accepts on its behalf. A few things worth lining up before then: Know who you'd co-author with. Make a short list of the creators, brands, or Pages whose name you'd actually want next to yours. Tidy the front door. A collab post sends new people to your profile, so check that your headline, banner, and recent posts say what you want them to. Have a post worth sharing. The feature adds reach; it doesn't make the content good. Save your stronger ideas for the partnerships that matter. 💡You can plan and schedule your LinkedIn content in Buffer. Get started here → Why this matters most for creators and brands Collab posts are a credibility trade, and the value runs in both directions. When a creator co-authors with a brand's page, each side gives the other something it can't easily buy on its own. The creator brings their voice and an audience that actually engages, instead of a logo posting into the void. The brand brings a co-sign: its name at the top of your post, next to yours, in front of everyone who sees it. People underrate that second part. A tag is easy to ignore. Shared authorship reads as an endorsement, and on LinkedIn, that endorsement is professional currency. If you're early or mid-career, an established brand publicly attaching its name to your work can be worth even more than the extra impressions. It also changes the dynamic. This isn't a brand 'renting' a creator's audience for a day, as they would in a regular sponsored post. Both names are at the top, so both audiences and both reputations are in it together. The timing tracks, too. LinkedIn launched its first Creator Marketplace in June, built to connect brands with creators directly. Collaborative posts are part of what that connection looks like in the feed. 6 ways creators and brands can use LinkedIn collab posts Most of these tips mirror what already works on Instagram, adjusted for how people show up on LinkedIn. Brand partnerships. This is the obvious one. A creator and a brand page co-author a single post, so the partnership reaches both audiences and reads as a real collaboration instead of a paid mention. Co-marketing with a peer. Two creators, or t --- ## 8 Sprout Social Alternatives to Try in 2026 (Free + Paid) URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/8-sprout-social-alternatives-to-try-in-2026-free-paid/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 Explore the best Sprout Social alternatives and see how they compare on pricing, features, and capabilities.(image) Sprout Social is a great social media tool for social media managers or creators lucky enough to have the budget. But it's on the pricier end. Plans for solo users start at $99 per month ($79 if you pay annually), and plans for teams start at $249 per user per month ($199 if you pay annually). It’s no doubt money well spent for large social media marketing teams at enterprise companies, but marketers at smaller companies or creators will have to work hard to justify that spend. Thankfully, there are plenty of other great social media management tools out there that can do everything Sprout Social can do and more — often at a more affordable price point or even for free. Cost is one reason people look elsewhere, but it's rarely the only one.  Here are a few worth weighing: Budget: Tools with per-user pricing can get costly quickly. Analytics: The need for simpler, more straightforward social media analytics. Interface: Wanting a tool that’s easier to use at every step from generating content ideas to creating reports. Platforms: Needing a social channel that’s not supported, such as Substack. API and MCP: The ability to quickly and easily build custom workflows and tools. I’m a former Sprout Social user and social media consultant, and I’ve been around the block when it comes to social media management and analytics platforms. If any of the above apply to you, I’ve got a great list of Sprout Social alternatives to share.  In this article, I’ll explore some of the best, how much they cost, and their standout features. Key takeaways Best overall value: Buffer has a real free-forever plan and pricing starting at $6/channel per month, making it the top choice for creators and small teams looking for an affordable Sprout Social alternative. Best for enterprise teams: Hootsuite is the closest match to Sprout Social's own price point and complexity, built for large, well-resourced marketing and support teams that manage high message volume through social channels. Best for proving return on investment (ROI): Agorapulse is built around reporting that shows leadership social spend is working. Best for Instagram-driven influencer marketing: Later pairs visual planning for Instagram with a dedicated toolkit for running influencer campaigns. Best for agencies: Sendible is designed for managing multiple clients and social channels in one place. Best for content marketers: CoSchedule brings your blog, newsletter, and events into the same calendar as your social channels. Best for paid social: Metricool lets you manage Meta, Google, and TikTok ad campaigns alongside your organic content. Best for video creators: RecurPost's Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok toolkit makes it the deepest option on this list for teams built around video. Pricing reality: Sprout Social’s team plan starts at $249/user per month with no free plan — every alternative here costs meaningfully less. Sprout Social alternatives at a glance Tool Best for Starting price Buffer Creators, small to mid-sized businesses, and growing agencies that want a flexible, affordable social media management tool. Free (paid plans from $6/channel/month) Hootsuite Large teams that handle many messages, comments, and support requests on social media. 14-day free trial, then $149/user/month Agorapulse Marketing teams that need to provide ROI of social media to leadership. 30-day free trial, then $99/user/month Sendible Agencies managing multiple clients and social media channels that need a more affordable alternative. 14-day free trial, then $35/month CoSchedule --- ## The 6 Best Substack Notes Schedulers in 2026 URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-6-best-substack-notes-schedulers-in-2026/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 We compared six Substack Notes schedulers on price, crossposting, and how they publish.(image) Until 2026, the answer to "can you schedule Substack Notes?" was a flat “nope.” But now, folks looking to schedule their Notes on Substack are spoilt for choice. Substack has its own built-in scheduler, and a handful of third-party tools can do it, too. Why would you want to schedule anywhere other than Substack, though? Good question! If you’re a Substack- only creator, that option probably does make the most sense for you. But plenty of Substack writers don't post exclusively on Substack. A Note that lands well is often just as good on Threads, LinkedIn, or Bluesky — and manually copy-pasting it can become a bit of a nuisance. That's where third-party tools (particularly feature-rich social media schedulers) earn their keep. Most of them let you line up a week or two of Notes and social posts in one sitting instead of scheduling them one by one. Bonus: Several tools will even show you detailed analytics on how each Note performed — and which brought in new subscribers. Sounds great, but with so many options, how do you know which Substack scheduler is the best fit for you? I explored six of the most popular options, including Substack's own, to see how they compare. Key takeaways Substack now schedules Notes natively and for free, up to about three months ahead. The catch is that you schedule one Note at a time, with no queue, calendar, or bulk scheduling. The biggest difference between third-party schedulers is how they publish. Some post from your open browser, some from a stored copy of your Substack login, some hand Notes to Substack's own scheduler, and some use a direct integration. If you post a few Notes a week and nowhere else, you probably don't need a paid tool. If Notes is one channel among several, a multi-platform scheduler (Buffer, Typefully) saves the most time. If Substack is your whole world, a Substack-only tool like WriteStack goes deeper. Jump to a section: Key takeaways The best Substack Notes schedulers at a glance Can you schedule Substack Notes natively? How a scheduler publishes might matter more than its features The 6 best Substack Notes schedulers 1. Buffer — best Substack Notes scheduler for crossposting to other platforms 2. Substack's native scheduler — best free option for a few Notes a week 3. WriteStack — best for Substack-only writers who want research and analytics 4. Typefully — best Substack Notes scheduler for writers whose main platform is X 5. Narrareach — best for turning articles into Notes with AI 6. StackSweller — best simple Notes queue at a flat price How to choose a Substack Notes scheduler Frequently asked questions Can you schedule Substack Notes? What's the best free Substack Notes scheduler? Is it safe to give a scheduler access to my Substack account? Can I crosspost Substack Notes to X, LinkedIn, and Threads? More Substack + newsletter resources The best Substack Notes schedulers at a glance Tool Best for How it publishes Crossposts? Free plan? Paid from Buffer Crossposting Notes to other platforms Direct connection via Substack's API Yes, 10+ platforms Yes, for up to three channels $6 per channel per month --- ## How to Increase Your LinkedIn Followers — What I’ve Learned From 25K of My Own and Millions of Posts of Buffer Data URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-to-increase-your-linkedin-followers-what-ive-learned-from-25k-of-my-own-and-millions-of-posts-of-buffer-data/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 I grew to 25K LinkedIn followers in six years. Here’s exactly how to increase your LinkedIn followers in 2026 based on my experience and Buffer’s own data.(image) LinkedIn is still one of the best places to build an audience from scratch, and you can increase your LinkedIn followers there organically, with no paid ads, no follower buying, and no growth hacks. When I went through 52 million posts across 10 platforms for our State of Social Media Engagement report, LinkedIn had the highest median engagement rate of any platform we looked at, at around 6.2%. (image) LinkedIn has also become the most-cited website in AI search for professional questions, according to Profound's tracking, and more of what gets cited is what people post. So what you share on LinkedIn can show up when someone asks ChatGPT about your field. It's worked for me, too. I made my account in 2017 but only started posting in 2020, when I was looking for community after losing my job. I now have over 25,000 followers, and posting has led to brand partnerships and invites onto podcasts and YouTube channels, which I never would've thought possible when I started. You don't need millions of followers, and you don't need to be the world's foremost expert in your niche. A smaller following that cares about what you have to say will do far more for you than a huge one that doesn't. So if you really, really want to grow on LinkedIn, whether as a creator, a founder, a business owner, or someone starting from zero, this guide is for you. It pairs what's worked for me with Buffer's data on millions of LinkedIn posts, and there's a section for company pages too. Key takeaways Switch your profile's main button from Connect to Follow. Connections are capped at 30,000 and need a yes from both sides, while followers have no cap, and everyone who connects with you follows you anyway. Stick to three to five topics. LinkedIn's feed now matches posts to people based on what they're about, so a clear focus helps it find your audience. Try carousels. In Buffer's analysis of 52 million posts, LinkedIn carousels had a median engagement rate of 21.77%, about three times video and nearly seven times text-only posts. Don't worry about posting too often. In Buffer's study of 2 million+ LinkedIn posts, accounts posting 11 or more times a week averaged nearly 17,000 more impressions per post. Reply to your comments. About 83% of LinkedIn profiles in Buffer's data performed better when they replied, the highest share of any platform. Keep your posts sounding like you. LinkedIn added a "Seems like AI slop" report option in July 2026, and flagged posts are seeing about 40% fewer views. Grow a company page through your team. Personal LinkedIn profiles get 57% higher engagement than company pages, according to Buffer's analysis of 20 million LinkedIn posts. Jump to a section: Optimize your LinkedIn profile Create LinkedIn content people follow you for Turn conversations into followers Use LinkedIn features to boost your growth How to grow LinkedIn company page followers Increase your LinkedIn followers, starting today FAQ on how to increase LinkedIn followers More LinkedIn resources Optimize your LinkedIn profile to get more followers Your LinkedIn profile is where most people decide whether to follow you. You can follow someone straight from the Follow button on their posts, but if most people are like me, they click through to the profile first to see who you are and what you post about. So the four changes below are about making that visit worth it, and together they should take about half an hour. 1. Switch your profile button from Connect to Follow This is the first, easiest thing anyone can do to objectively “get more followers.” By default, the big button on your LinkedIn profile says Connect. When you switch it to Follow, anyone can follow you in one tap instead of sending a request and waiting for you to accept it. Here's how followers and connections compare: Connections are capped at 30,000 and need a yes from both sides. Followers have no cap, and anyone can follow you without waiting on you. And you won't lose anything by switching, since people can still send you a connection request from the More menu on your profile. LinkedIn used to bundle this setting into Creator Mode, which it retired in March 2024, but the setting still exists on its own. To turn it on, go to Settings & Privacy → Visibility → Visibility of your LinkedIn activity → Followers, and turn on "Make follow primary." --- ## The Tattoo That Marks 13 Years of Healing After Abuse URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/13-years-of-healing-after-abuse/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 A Personal Story of Abuse, Healing, Self-Trust, and Reclaiming Your Life By Skminc | Success King Marketing Inc. “When people show you who they are, believe them the first time.” — Maya Angelou ] A confident woman reflecting on her journey of healing and personal growth, with a subtle tattoo symbolizing resilience and survival.  In June 2011, I got a Facebook friend request from a guy I vaguely knew from college. We’d never dated, never even been close, but I knew him by reputation. Charming. Vain. The kind of guy who always had someone. He’d just been hired to teach at my school, where I was about to start my fifth year as a counselor. He framed the request as wanting to connect as colleagues, so I accepted. When school started that August, he made it a point to show up at my office constantly, even though his classroom was nowhere near mine. Weeks of him asking me out. I finally agreed to one drink. Not a date, I told myself. That night, I planned to tell him I have herpes, figuring it would scare off someone so concerned with his image. Before I got the words out, he said it for me: “I know what you’re going to tell me. You have herpes.” I was stunned. I’d shared my diagnosis with a few friends in college years earlier, and because he and I had overlapping social circles, I could only assume the information had eventually made its way to him. He never told me exactly how he knew. And then, strangely, I felt relieved. He knew, and he still wanted me. Looking back, the red flag wasn’t simply that he knew. It was the way he used that knowledge. He could have let me tell him something deeply personal in my own time. Instead, he took the disclosure out of my hands. At the time, though, I didn’t see it that way. I saw acceptance. It felt like magic. The Unraveling We moved fast. By October, he’d left so much of his life at my place that, without either of us ever really deciding it, he’d basically moved in. I was direct from the start about what I wanted, what I expected, and that if he ever wanted something else, I’d rather know than be lied to. For a while, it seemed like he heard me. By the fall of 2012, he’d started his master’s program. That December, something happened that made the uneasiness I’d been feeling impossible to ignore. During sex, he suddenly put his hands around my neck and began choking me. We’d never discussed it. I’d never expressed an interest in it. When I demanded to know why he thought I would want that, he said he thought I’d like it. Something in me knew there was more to that answer. Then came the nights he didn’t come home, even though he was living with me. No call. No text. The next day, he’d explain that he’d been studying with classmates. I couldn’t prove he was cheating, but I became convinced he was. When I got the flu that same month, the man who once nursed me through every cold suddenly wasn’t around. There had been another moment I wouldn’t understand until later. We were arguing one night, probably about whether he was cheating. I was standing at the kitchen sink doing dishes while he paced behind me, his voice getting louder. “I’m going to take a walk before I do something I regret.” My body registered those words before my mind did. Something about them felt wrong. But then he did exactly what he said he was going to do. He left. He took a walk. When he came back, he’d cooled down. Nothing happened. I told myself maybe that was healthy. He’d recognized that he was angry and removed himself from the situation rather than escalating it. Years later, that is one of the moments I return to most. At the time, I couldn’t see the warning inside the sentence. I was in love with him, and the feeling of being accepted by someone who already knew the thing I’d once feared would make me unlovable was overwhelmingly blinding. So I explained away what my body had already noticed. I finally told him to leave in January 2013. What I Wasn’t Ready to See I confronted him before I made him leave. He never admitted to cheating, and I never had proof. But by then, I trusted what his behavior was telling me. There was an irony I couldn’t ignore. I had entered the relationship terrified that my STI would make me undesirable. I’d been vulnerable and honest about my sexual health from the beginning. Now I was with someone who knew my status and whose behavior left me wondering whether he was putting my sexual health at risk. It took me longer than I’d like to admit to end things. He was persuasive and charismatic. Even one of his fraternity brothers had warned me not to date him, telling me plainly that he had a reputation for being unfaithful. When he still refused to leave, I asked two of his friends for help. One of them was also my friend, and eventually they convinced him to go. I placed his belongings outside my door for him to collect. I thought that was the end. It wasn’t. He continued showing up. If I didn’t answer his messages, he would appear at my door. At the time, I mistook his refusal to let go for love. I hadn’t yet learned that someone can desperately want access to you without actually understanding how to love you. The Second Chance I Shouldn’t Have Given For several months, the contact continued through calls, texts, and unexpected appearances. Then, in April 2013, I gave him another opportunity. Looking back, it was an opportunity I never owed him. We went together to a jazz festival. The music was the kind I genuinely loved, and for a few hours everything felt easy again. It was almost possible to believe that perhaps things could be different. Then, on the drive home, I watched him text another woman and arrange to meet her after he dropped me off. That was enough. I told him I was done. When we arrived at my apartment, I asked him to return my key fob. He refused. I was frustrated and wanted him to understand that I was finished with the relationship. I tapped his car’s bumper with my shoe to get his attention and demanded the key fob again. He responded with violence. He struck me in the face with a closed fist. The force knocked me to the ground. When the Warning Became Clear I got up and ran toward my apartment. He followed me and pushed his way inside. In the immediate aftermath, he wanted to call his father and explain what had happened from his perspective. When his father learned what he had done, his response was devastatingly simple: he called his son a monster. And suddenly, another moment from months earlier made sense. “I’m going to take a walk before I do something I regret.” This time, I understood what I hadn’t been ready to understand before. The warning had been there. I had simply not been able to see it clearly. I made him leave and called 911. A friend took me to the emergency room, where I reported the assault. The legal process that followed was long and exhausting. There were delays and continuances. There were problems involving his lawyer. He also violated the restraining order more than once. Eventually, he was found guilty of misdemeanor domestic violence. But the legal outcome wasn’t the part that stayed with me the longest. The shame did. “How Did I Miss the Signs?” I was a counselor. How had I missed the signs? That question followed me. I had already spent years working on myself. From 2010 to 2011, I had invested deeply in counseling, personal growth, and learning how to love myself. I had asked difficult questions. I had done the work. So how could I have worked so hard to find myself, only to lose myself again? That was one of the hardest questions I had to face. But eventually, I realized something important. I Hadn’t Missed Everything I hadn’t failed to see every warning sign. There were moments when I saw them. There were moments when I felt something was wrong before I could explain it logically. My body noticed things my mind wasn’t ready to accept. And then I explained those feelings away. Being in love can make that happen. It doesn’t matter how educated you are, how experienced you are, or how much insight you have developed in other areas of life. When you desperately want something to work, it can become surprisingly easy to create explanations for behavior you would recognize immediately in someone else’s relationship. My ability to see the good in people had helped me throughout my career. I believed people could change. I believed people could become better. Those qualities were valuable when I was helping young people. But without strong boundaries, those same qualities made it easier for me to keep giving someone the benefit of the doubt when my instincts were telling me something different. That doesn’t mean the abuse was my fault. It wasn’t. An argument does not justify violence. A disagreement does not justify violence. Being frustrated does not justify violence. Nothing I did gave another person permission to assault me. Losing Yourself Doesn’t Erase Your Growth One of the most important things I learned was that losing myself again didn’t erase the work I had already done. I hadn’t failed at self-love. I was human. I had entered a relationship believing I could love someone without abandoning myself. I didn’t realize how much of myself I was giving away until I was already deeply lost. That realization hurt. I felt disappointed in myself. I felt embarrassed. But underneath all of that was another realization: If I had rebuilt myself once, I could rebuild myself again. And this time, I knew more. Rebuilding Myself I started running. Literally. Trail running and hiking became important parts of my life. Movement gave me a way to regulate myself, clear my mind, and continue showing up for the people who depended on me. I also returned to counseling. I didn’t try to figure everything out alone. I needed professional support to understand what had happened, why certain warning signs had been so difficult to recognize, and how I could learn to trust my own judgment again. It wasn’t easy. Healing rarely is. There were days when progress felt less like moving forward and more like simply getting through the day. I had to grieve the relationship. I had to grieve the version of myself I felt I had lost. And I had to let go of the belief that doing personal-growth work once meant I would never struggle again. Slowly, things changed. With movement, reflection, counseling, and time, the wound became something I could carry without allowing it to control me. And eventually, I began to grow again. I Became Stronger—But the Abuse Wasn’t the Gift I became a stronger woman. I became a brighter version of myself. But I don’t believe the abuse made me stronger. What happened to me was not a gift. The gift was what I discovered about myself afterward. I became clearer about what I wanted from life. I became clearer about what I wanted from relationships. I became clearer about the experiences I wanted to have. And I became much clearer about what I would and would not accept from the people I allowed close to me. Sometimes difficult experiences change our perspective. That doesn’t mean suffering is necessary for wisdom. It means that when we survive something we never imagined we would have to survive, we may come away with a deeper understanding of ourselves. Bulletproof Soul Thirteen years after that night at the jazz festival, I decided to mark the journey permanently. I got a tattoo. Just beneath my left clavicle, close to my heart, are the words: Bulletproof Soul The phrase had personal meaning for me. It came from a song I had known since I was young, but its meaning changed as I grew older and experienced things I could not have understood as a child. After everything that happened, the words represented something different. They represented rebuilding. They represented running mile after mile. They represented hiking trails. They represented counseling. They represented learning. They represented the process of losing myself and finding myself again. The tattoo wasn’t meant to memorialize the abuse. It was meant to mark what I built afterward. The tattoo itself doesn’t hurt anymore. Most days, I barely notice it. And somehow, that feels appropriate. It isn’t an open wound. It’s simply part of me now. Healing Doesn’t Mean Forgetting If you’re currently in the middle of your own difficult chapter, you may be asking yourself the same questions I once asked. How did I miss the signs? Why did I stay? Why did I give another chance? Why didn’t I trust myself? If that’s where you are, I want you to know something: You didn’t necessarily fail. You were human. You may have been in love. You may have been trying to make something work. You may have been doing the best you could with what you understood at the time. And if it took you longer than you wish it had to recognize what was happening, that does not disqualify you from healing. You can still rebuild. You can still trust yourself again. You can still become a brighter version of yourself. You Can Rise Again Healing isn’t always a straight line. You may reach a place where you feel strong, confident, whole, and deeply connected to yourself, only to discover that another difficult experience has knocked you off balance. That doesn’t mean you’re back at the beginning. It means you’re human. Growth doesn’t disappear because you struggle. Self-love doesn’t disappear because you make a decision you later wish you had made differently. Your progress is not erased by one painful chapter. You can rise again. It may be difficult. It may take time. It may require support. But there can be something powerful on the other side of that journey: a clearer understanding of who you are, what you want from your life, what you want from your relationships, and who you want beside you. When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. And if you didn’t, that doesn’t mean you are disqualified from healing. You can heal. You can rebuild. You can become an even brighter version of yourself. Not because what happened to you was a gift. But because of what you discovered in yourself afterward. A Message for Anyone Healing From Abuse [] A woman standing confidently outdoors at sunrise, symbolizing freedom, healing, resilience, and a new beginning. The most powerful lesson in this story may be that healing isn’t about pretending the past never happened. It’s about reaching a point where the past no longer controls the direction of your future. For anyone rebuilding after an unhealthy or abusive relationship, professional support, trusted friends, family, counselors, and appropriate community resources can all be valuable sources of help. If you are currently in danger, seek immediate help from emergency services or a qualified domestic-violence support organization in your area. Continue Your Personal Growth Journey Success King Marketing Inc. publishes practical Blog Insights and eBooks focused on personal development, relationships, confidence, business, wellness, and building a better future. [SHOP EBOOKS CTA] Explore our eBooks and digital guides → [BLOG INSIGHTS CTA] Read more Success King Marketing Inc. Blog Insights → [AFFILIATE RESOURCES CTA] You can also explore our selected recommendations, including ClickBank offers, Amazon products, travel booking resources, and Real PPV Traffic solutions. Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this website may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase, at no additional cost to you. Continue reading articles about personal growth, relationships, business, technology, wellness, and everyday life. Discover Recommended Offers [CLICKBANK AFFILIATE PLACEHOLDER] Explore selected ClickBank products and resources that may complement your personal-development and lifestyle goals. [AMAZON AFFILIATE PLACEHOLDER] Discover recommended products and useful finds through our Amazon shopping selections. [TRAVEL BOOKING PLACEHOLDER] Planning your next trip or getaway? Explore recommended travel booking services and discover opportunities for your next journey. [REAL PPV TRAFFIC PLACEHOLDER] For entrepreneurs and marketers, explore Real PPV Traffic solutions designed to help businesses reach targeted online audiences. A Final Reminder Healing is not always a straight line. Sometimes you understand a warning sign years after you first experienced it. Sometimes the lesson becomes clearer with distance. And sometimes, what once felt like the end of your world becomes part of the story of how you found yourself again. Your experiences do not have to define your future. Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep choosing yourself. Learn Today. Build Tomorrow. Success King Marketing Inc. https://skmarketsinc.com Author: Skminc --- ## When the old way fails, resilience moves you forward URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/when-old-ways-fail-resilience-keeps-buiding/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 When life changes your abilities; Learn how resilience, adaptability, and small daily progress can help you keep moving forward. Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Inspired by: “When You Can’t Do Things the Way You Used To” (Referenced author. Marcus Aurelius) When the Old Way No Longer Works “What stands in the way becomes the way.” — Marcus Aurelius Life has a way of rewriting our plans. Sometimes change arrives gradually. Other times, it comes without warning. A health setback, financial struggle, family challenge, or a dream that suddenly looks different than we imagined. The hardest part isn’t always what happened. It’s realizing that the way you used to do things may no longer be possible. Yet that doesn’t mean progress has to stop. Often, it simply means learning a different path. Person rebuilding a home while embracing resilience after life’s unexpected challenges. Progress Looks Different Now Many people measure success by speed. Finish the project. Cross everything off the list. Move on to the next goal. But life doesn’t always allow that pace. Sometimes progress becomes slower. Sometimes it comes in shorter bursts of energy. Sometimes success is simply accomplishing one meaningful task before resting. That shift can feel frustrating, especially for people who are used to being productive. However, adapting isn’t giving up—it’s learning how to continue despite new limitations. Small Wins Still Count Instead of asking: “Why can’t I do what I used to?” Ask: “What’s one thing I can do today?” That simple question changes everything. Every completed task—no matter how small—creates momentum. The House Becomes a Lesson A home offers a powerful metaphor for resilience. No house becomes beautiful overnight. Rooms change. Floors get replaced. Walls get repainted. Windows get repaired. There is always another project waiting. The same is true for life. We aren’t finished products. We grow through repairs, adjustments, mistakes, and new beginnings. That’s what transforms a building into a home—and experiences into wisdom. Every Improvement Tells a Story What makes a home meaningful isn’t perfection. It’s remembering what came before. The freshly painted wall represents effort. The repaired floor represents persistence. The finished porch represents countless small decisions to keep going. Life works the same way. The victories others barely notice often carry the greatest personal significance. When Your Plans Change Health isn’t the only thing that changes people’s lives. Many people face unexpected turning points like: Losing a job Divorce Financial hardship Aging Caring for loved ones Business setbacks Failed dreams Starting over Each challenge forces an uncomfortable realization: The future may not look like the one we planned. But that doesn’t mean the future has no value. It simply requires a different blueprint. Planning future projects despite life’s unexpected changes. Keep Something Worth Looking Forward To One of the healthiest habits during difficult seasons is maintaining something to anticipate. It doesn’t have to be enormous. It might be: learning a new skill, reading an inspiring book, improving one room, starting an online business, planting a garden, or building a personal project. Hope often grows through action. Even planning the next step can create motivation before the work begins. What Marcus Aurelius Meant The Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius wrote: “What stands in the way becomes the way.” His point wasn’t that obstacles disappear. His point was that obstacles become part of our growth. Instead of waiting for perfect conditions, we learn through imperfect ones. That mindset remains incredibly relevant today—for entrepreneurs, families, homeowners, and anyone rebuilding after setbacks. Resilience in Business and Changes inLife At Success King Marketing Inc, we believe growth rarely happens in perfect circumstances. Whether you’re: launching an online business, building new skills, creating multiple income streams, or simply working toward personal goals, consistency often matters more than perfection. The same principles that help someone rebuild confidence after life’s challenges also help entrepreneurs build successful businesses: Adapt. Learn. Keep improving. Celebrate progress. Small steps compound over time. Learn Today. Build Tomorrow. If you’re working toward personal or business growth, explore our practical digital resources designed to help you keep moving forward. Featured eBooks from Our Shop 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies for growing your online presence and increasing sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI can improve every stage of your customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Practical strategies for building a stronger business. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for entrepreneurs navigating today’s economy. Visit our digital marketplace at skmarketsinc.com to discover more business resources, self-improvement guides, and exclusive Blog Insights articles. Recommended Resources Expand your knowledge with trusted resources and affiliate recommendations available through Success King Marketing Inc. Business & Marketing Digital Marketing eBooks AI Business Resources ClickBank Digital Products Real PPV Traffic Solutions Lifestyle & Productivity Self-improvement guides Wellness resources Productivity tools Personal development articles Travel & Bookings Planning your next adventure? Explore our travel booking recommendations available through our website. Related Blog Insights Continue reading on Success King Marketing Inc: Are You Emotionally Reactive? You May Be Stuck in Survival Mode Why Leaders Need Better Perspective, Not More Data Upskilling Your Team for What’s Next How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships The Power of Imperfect Work in an AI-Driven World Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment Final Thoughts Life doesn’t always allow us to keep moving the way we used to. But it often teaches us something more valuable. We learn patience. We learn adaptability. We learn that meaningful progress isn’t measured only by speed—it’s measured by the willingness to keep building, even when the path changes. The obstacle may not disappear. But as Marcus Aurelius reminds us, it can become the way forward. --- ## Why I Always Thought Other People Were Upset with Me URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-i-always-thought-other-people-were-upset-with-me/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 Learning to Stop Taking Other People’s Emotions Personally and Build Healthier Relationships Author: Skminc Website: https://skmarketsinc.com “Don’t take anything personally. Nothing others do is because of you.” — Don Miguel Ruiz A thoughtful woman sitting with her phone, reflecting on anxiety, emotional awareness, and relationship communication.   Article Category: Relationships | Emotional Wellness | Personal Growth Why We Sometimes Assume Other People’s Feelings Are About Us I used to walk into a room and check everyone else’s emotional temperature before I noticed my own. A tightened jaw meant I should get quieter. A distracted answer meant I’d done something wrong. If my partner sighed while unloading the dishwasher, I’d go back through the last hour looking for the mistake that caused it. I called this empathy. It felt like attentiveness, and honestly, I was proud of it, because I noticed things other people missed. What I didn’t see was that I wasn’t only noticing other people’s feelings. I was borrowing them, wrapping a story around them, and then carrying that story as evidence about myself. The Night That Changed Everything Waiting anxiously for a text back. One evening I messaged my partner, who was staying at his sister’s that week, and asked if he wanted to talk. He replied four minutes later: Can’t talk tonight I noticed immediately—the missing period. That tiny absence revealed a lot about me then. I stared at those three words until they rearranged themselves. Maybe he was angry. Maybe I’d been asking for too much. Maybe “tonight” was a gentle way of saying “anymore.” I typed, “Is everything okay?” and deleted it because it sounded needy. I typed, “No worries!” and deleted that too—the exclamation point felt fake. Then I carried my phone from room to room for three hours. I washed a mug that was already clean. I opened the fridge, looked at a jar of olives, and closed it. Every time I checked whether he was online, I turned the result—whatever it was—into evidence against myself. By eleven I had invented an entire story out of nothing: a timeline, a probable cause, and a script of what I would say when he finally admitted what was wrong. Near midnight I sent: Did I do something? He answered the next morning. He’d had a headache, gone to bed at nine, and hadn’t been thinking about me at all. Relief came first. Embarrassment followed. Underneath both was something quieter. I’d lost an entire evening to a feeling that wasn’t mine and a story nobody had told me. His possible disappointment had become my panic. His silence had become my verdict. Where This Habit Begins That night wasn’t an isolated overreaction. It was a skill I’d been practicing since I was small. As a kid, I could tell what kind of evening it would be from the sound of keys at the front door. Whether a cupboard closed or got closed. And whether a question got a full answer or a clipped one. Nobody told me to monitor the weather in the house. I just learned that predicting a mood gave me a few seconds to prepare. My brother learned to leave the room. I learned to stay and read the air. That sensitivity came with me into adulthood, where it stopped protecting me and started running me. I treated ordinary pauses like sirens. From the outside I probably looked easygoing. Inside I was adjusting constantly—changing the subject when someone shifted in their chair, softening an honest opinion before anyone objected. The more attention I gave to everyone else’s mood, the harder it became to find my own. If someone was disappointed, I felt ashamed. Also, when someone went distant, I got frantic. This didn’t make me kinder. It made my care anxious and a little controlling. I don’t love admitting the next part. When my partner came home flattened by a bad day that had nothing to do with me, I kept asking what was wrong—in a softer and softer voice—until he ended up comforting me about his own bad day. I wanted closeness. My monitoring was the thing standing in the way of it. I was in a relationship with my predictions instead of the person in the kitchen. What Actually Helped Journaling emotions and practicing self-awareness. The first thing that helped was small enough to feel like nothing. I started naming the feeling before I explained it. When a message went unanswered, I’d try: “I feel anxious.” Instead of: “He’s ignoring me.”   One of those describes what’s happening in my chest. The other claims to know what’s happening inside someone else’s head. Almost all of my suffering lived in the space between those two sentences. Anxiety can be felt without being obeyed.   A story about rejection demands action immediately. I also gave myself ten minutes before sending the anxious text. Without scrolling. No rereading old conversations. And not drafting a fourth polite version of the same question.   The feeling in those ten minutes was usually more specific than I expected. Tight chest dropping sensation like missing a step on the stairs And when I did reach out, I tried to ask one clean question instead of a loaded one. “You seemed quiet earlier. Is something on your mind?” Leaves room for an answer I hadn’t already written for them. “Are you mad at me?” Doesn’t leave that room. It hands my fear across the table and asks someone else to carry it. The Difference Between Awareness and Assumption One of the biggest lessons from this experience is that emotional awareness becomes healthier when it includes ourselves—not just everyone around us. Being observant isn’t the same as being responsible for another person’s emotions.   Sometimes silence is just silence. And Sometimes a short text is simply a short text. Learning to pause before creating a story can protect relationships from unnecessary misunderstandings and help us respond with curiosity instead of fear. Practical Takeaways for Emotional Resilience If you often worry that other people are upset with you, these small habits can help: Name your feeling before explaining someone else’s behavior. Wait ten minutes before reacting to anxious assumptions. Ask clear, open-ended questions. Separate facts from interpretations. Remember that another person’s mood isn’t automatically about you. These practices don’t erase anxiety overnight, but they create space for healthier communication and greater emotional confidence. Continue Your Personal Growth Journey At Success King Marketing Inc, we believe personal growth and emotional intelligence go hand in hand with success in business and life. Recommended eBooks from Our Shop The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Discover how AI improves customer relationships and business growth. 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies for growing your online presence. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Practical insights for modern entrepreneurs. Success in Business Online Course   Build stronger business skills with practical growth strategies. Shop now: https://skmarketsinc.com Helpful Resources & Affiliate Recommendations Explore trusted resources designed to help you grow personally and professionally. ClickBank Digital ProductsExplore bestselling self-improvement, business, and wellness products. Amazon DealsFind books, productivity tools, and lifestyle products.   Travel Booking ServicesSave on hotels, flights, and vacation planning.   Real PPV TrafficDrive targeted visitors to your website and online business.   Related Blog Insights Articles Continue exploring topics that support personal growth, emotional resilience, and business success. Are You Emotionally Reactive? You May Be Stuck in Survival Mode Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment What Is Happiness Without Love? The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Why AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships Find more insights at Success King Marketing Inc: https://skmarketsinc.com --- ## When Doing More Is Really an Attempt to Control the Outcome URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/productive-work-vs-busywork-control-outcomes/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-07 How to Stop Busywork, Embrace Uncertainty, and Focus on Progress That Actually Grows Your Business Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc — skmarketsinc.com  Category: Blog Insights | Productivity | Entrepreneurship | Mindset “Uncertainty is the only certainty there is, and knowing how to live with insecurity is the only security.” — John Allen Paulos   Entrepreneur closing a laptop after checking analytics, symbolizing letting go of unnecessary busywork. Why We Keep Doing More Even When More Isn’t Helping Have you ever refreshed your analytics dashboard five times in ten minutes? Maybe you’ve reread an email before sending it, adjusted a landing page headline for the fourth time, or opened another browser tab searching for the one answer that would guarantee success. For entrepreneurs, marketers, and creators, this behavior often feels responsible. We call it “being thorough.” But sometimes it isn’t productivity. Sometimes it’s an attempt to control an outcome that no longer belongs to us. The moment we publish a blog article, launch an ad campaign, upload an eBook, or promote an affiliate product, uncertainty takes over. The work is done—but our minds keep searching for something else to fix. Understanding the difference between productive work and anxious activity can dramatically improve both business performance and personal well-being. The Productivity Trap Entrepreneurs Rarely Notice There is a subtle shift that happens after meaningful work is complete. Instead of creating new value, we begin managing discomfort. It looks like: Refreshing analytics repeatedly. Comparing results with competitors. Reopening projects that already function. Constantly tweaking headlines without new evidence. Searching endlessly for “better” strategies. None of these actions feel irrational. Each contains enough truth to justify another five minutes. The problem is that effort has stopped improving the work—it has started regulating our emotions instead. For digital entrepreneurs running websites like Success King Marketing Inc, this pattern can quietly steal hours that could have been spent creating new content, publishing eBooks, or building new revenue streams. Why Our Brain Chooses Activity Over Uncertainty The human brain prefers action over waiting. Even small actions create the feeling of control. That explains why checking analytics feels strangely satisfying, even when nothing has changed. Psychologists often describe this as seeking reassurance through repetitive behaviors. In business, it appears as constant optimization. The irony? The businesses that grow consistently aren’t the ones checking dashboards every few minutes. They’re the ones publishing consistently. Real Work Has a Finish Line One question can reveal whether you’re doing meaningful work or simply managing anxiety: “What new information am I expecting to find?” If you can answer clearly, the task probably has value. If the answer is vague, you’re likely chasing reassurance. Signs you’re doing productive work Writing a new article. Creating an eBook. Improving SEO based on actual data. Building an affiliate funnel. Testing a specific marketing hypothesis. Signs you’re stuck in busywork Refreshing reports repeatedly. Comparing yourself to strangers online. Making tiny edits without purpose. Reading advice without applying it. Searching for certainty that doesn’t exist. Productive work creates progress. Busywork creates temporary relief. Why This Matters for Digital Marketing Success Digital marketing naturally encourages constant measurement. We track: Website visitors Click-through rates Affiliate commissions Email opens Search rankings Ad performance These metrics are valuable—but only when they’re reviewed intentionally. A better rhythm looks like this: | Task | Healthy Frequency | | — | — | | Analytics review | Daily or weekly | | SEO audit | Monthly | | Affiliate performance | Weekly | | Content planning | Weekly | | Publishing new content | Consistently | Notice the pattern. Growth comes from creating more value—not from watching numbers move. How AI Can Reduce Busywork Instead of Increasing It Artificial intelligence can either amplify distraction or eliminate it. Used wisely, AI helps entrepreneurs spend less time on repetitive tasks. Examples include: Generating content outlines. Improving readability. Creating product descriptions. Brainstorming headlines. Organizing keyword research. Automating repetitive marketing tasks. Instead of using AI to endlessly rewrite the same paragraph, use it to create the next valuable piece of content. A Better Business Habit: Ship, Then Learn At Success King Marketing Inc, the goal isn’t simply publishing content. The goal is building a sustainable digital business that grows through: eBooks Blog Insights articles Affiliate marketing Real PPV traffic SEO Long-term customer trust Every successful creator eventually discovers an uncomfortable truth: You cannot optimize results that haven’t had time to exist yet. Publishing consistently beats polishing endlessly. Waiting is often part of the process—not evidence that something is wrong. Practical Actions You Can Take Today Instead of asking, “What else can I fix?” try asking: Have I completed the important work? What evidence says another edit will help? Am I creating new value or seeking reassurance? What is the next meaningful project? When those questions become habits, productivity starts feeling calmer. Not because uncertainty disappears. Because you stop fighting it. Recommended Resources from Success King Marketing Inc Featured eBooks 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies for growing your online presence and increasing sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI improves every stage of your customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Practical business growth strategies for modern entrepreneurs. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for building long-term financial success. Visit: Success King Marketing Inc Shop Related Blog Insights Articles Continue learning with these articles from our Blog Insights section: The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Why AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships Why Marketing Agencies Must Shift From Deliverables to Strategy Upskilling Your Team for What’s Next The Hidden Tax Savings in Your Business AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership Affiliate Resources Worth Exploring Expand your digital business with trusted affiliate opportunities available through Success King Marketing Inc: ClickBank Marketplace — Discover digital products with attractive commission opportunities across multiple niches. Amazon Recommended Deals — Browse curated products for business, technology, and lifestyle purchases. Travel Booking Services — Book hotels, flights, and travel experiences through our recommended travel partners. Real PPV Traffic Resources — Learn how targeted traffic strategies can support your online business growth. Final Thoughts The most successful entrepreneurs aren’t those who eliminate uncertainty. They’re the ones who stop mistaking endless activity for meaningful progress. Create. Publish. Learn. Then create again. That cycle builds businesses. Refreshing the dashboard rarely does. --- ## How I Changed My Life in the Middle of Chaos URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-i-changed-my-life-in-the-middle-of-chaos/ Type: post Modified: 2026-10-06 How Small Decisions, Imperfect Progress, and Persistence Can Change Your Life When Everything Feels Overwhelming Authored and Published by Success King Marketing Inc. Blog Insight Team “Do what you can, with what you’ve got, where you are.” — Squire Bill Widener For years, I had a private deal with myself: I would really change when life became manageable. When work slowed down. When the family was okay. When I had more energy. When there was less stress. When I could finally focus. The problem was that life never signed that deal. At my heaviest, I weighed 465 pounds. I had learned how to live inside a body that made almost everything harder while also becoming very good at explaining why now was not the right time to change it. Some of my reasons were excuses. Some were completely real. My life has included homelessness, public failures, business pressure, family loss, and the kind of responsibilities that do not disappear because you are trying to work on yourself. In 2022, my family lost our three-year-old daughter, Katana Rose, to acute leukemia. There is no sentence after that which makes it smaller. And there was no moment when somebody came to us and said, “Everything else can stop now. Take all the time you need.” The house still needed things. The children still needed their father. Bills still arrived. Work still existed. My body was still the body I woke up inside every morning. I Stopped Waiting for Life to Become Perfect For a long time, I thought self-improvement required a clean runway. I imagined discipline as something people did when they had meal-prep containers lined up, a perfect sleep schedule, and enough emotional space to think clearly. My life did not look like that. Eventually I had to accept something less inspirational and more useful: if I could only change under ideal conditions, I was probably never going to change. So I stopped trying to build the perfect plan and started asking a different question: What can I still do when the day is bad? That question changed more for me than any dramatic promise ever did. I could still move. I could still train for a little while. I could still make one better decision with food even if the previous decision was terrible. I could stop turning one bad meal into a three-day excuse. I could stop using Monday as a fictional country where a better version of me supposedly lived. Start With the Next Useful Action Change does not always begin with a dramatic transformation. Sometimes it begins with a glass of water. A short walk. A better meal. A phone call. An honest conversation. Ten minutes of exercise. Going to bed instead of staying up worrying about everything that might go wrong tomorrow. These actions may seem insignificant when compared with a major life goal. But repeated small actions can create momentum. That is one of the principles behind sustainable personal growth: you do not have to solve your entire life today. You only have to identify the next useful action. [Kindness vs. Boundaries Guide for Parents & Professionals] From €60.00 to 2nd Discount Sale €49.00 Original price was: €99.00.. Slowly, the numbers changed. I went from 465 pounds to about 280 without weight-loss surgery, GLP-1 medication, peptides, or steroids. But the number is not the part I think about most now. What changed was my relationship with interruption. Before, interruption meant failure. If I missed the gym, ate badly, had a terrible week, or got hit with another problem, I felt like the whole attempt had been ruined. Starting over felt easier than continuing imperfectly. Now I understand that continuing imperfectly is most of the work. Progress does not require perfection. It requires returning to the process. That lesson started showing up outside the gym. Rebuilding More Than My Health I built a company in Las Vegas. I began speaking publicly. I kept putting myself in situations where I had to be visible before I felt finished. That was uncomfortable because I had spent years thinking I needed to become the final version of myself before I had earned the right to stand in front of people and talk about rebuilding. There is no final version. There is only the version who showed up today, carrying everything that happened before today. You Do Not Have to Be Finished to Begin One of the traps of personal development is believing that you need to have everything figured out before you can help, lead, create, or move forward. You don’t. Sometimes your experience becomes valuable precisely because you are still rebuilding. You can learn while building. You can improve while struggling. You can create while uncertain. You can become more confident while still experiencing fear. And you can pursue success without pretending that your life has been perfect. Grief Changed My Understanding of Strength Grief taught me that more brutally than fitness ever could. You do not “complete” grief. You do not get a certificate saying you handled it correctly. You learn how to carry love after the person you love is no longer physically where they should be. Some days that carrying looks meaningful. Some days it looks like getting through breakfast. Both count. The same principle became true for almost everything I was trying to rebuild. I did not need to conquer my entire life. I needed to stop abandoning myself every time life became difficult. That does not mean pushing through everything. Sometimes the right decision is rest. Sometimes it is asking for help. Sometimes it is admitting that today is not a productive day. But there is a difference between rest and surrender, just as there is a difference between making a bad choice and deciding that the bad choice defines the week. I had spent a long time confusing those things. Remove the Drama From the Restart One of the biggest changes I made was removing drama from the restart. I no longer needed a speech to myself. No new identity. No “this time everything changes.” No punishment. Just the next useful action. That idea sounds small because it is small. Small is why it works. When my life becomes chaotic now, I still fall out of routines. I still make decisions I would not recommend. I still have days when the person I want to be feels very far away. But I do not treat distance as proof that I cannot get there. The Restart Does Not Need to Be Perfect Maybe you missed a week. Start again. Maybe you made a terrible decision. Make the next one better. Maybe your business has stalled. Take one productive step. Maybe you lost your confidence. Do one thing that reminds you that you are still capable. Maybe life knocked you completely off course. Find the next piece of solid ground. The goal is not to create a life where nothing goes wrong. The goal is to become someone who knows how to respond when something does. [EMMOTIONAL WELLNESS –How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior] You Can Rebuild While Life Is Still Messy I have already spent years walking through versions of my life I once thought would destroy me. The lesson I keep coming back to is not that I am unusually strong. It is that human beings can keep rebuilding while the construction site is still a mess. You do not have to wait until your life becomes quiet. You do not have to wait until you are less sad, less busy, less embarrassed, more motivated, or more certain. You can make one decision from the life you actually have. Then another. And another. That is how change happens. Not always dramatically. Not always quickly. Not always in the way you imagined. But consistently enough to move you somewhere different. Your Life Does Not Have to Be Perfect to Move Forward If you are waiting for the perfect time to change your life, this may be the reminder you need: The perfect time may never arrive. Your circumstances may be difficult. Your schedule may be crowded. Your confidence may be low. Your motivation may disappear. You may still be carrying grief, disappointment, financial pressure, family responsibilities, or mistakes from your past. None of that means you cannot take the next step. You do not need to transform everything today. You need to stop abandoning yourself. Start with what you have. Start where you are. Start with what you can do. Then come back tomorrow and do the next useful thing. [CALL-TO-ACTION IMAGE PLACEHOLDER] Suggested image: A clean Success King Marketing Inc. branded graphic showing an open road/path with the words: “Start Where You Are. Take the Next Step.” Include a Shop/eBook CTA. Continue Your Personal Growth Journey If this story connected with you, explore more personal-growth and self-improvement resources from Success King Marketing Inc. Our Shop features eBooks and digital resources created to provide practical ideas, strategies, inspiration, and actionable guidance for people who want to learn, grow, and build a better future. [SHOP LINK — The Success King Marketing Inc Shop] Recommended eBook Reading [EMOTIONAL WELLNESS— How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior!] [MANIFEST YOUR DREAMS — How To Turn Your Desires Into Reality] [Are You Highly Emotionally Reactive? You Might Be Stuck in Survival Mode.] Learn Today. Build Tomorrow. Explore our collection of eBooks and digital resources designed to help you turn knowledge into action. [Our EBOOKS SHOP: SHOP EBOOKS NOW] Related Blog Insights You May Enjoy Keep reading with these related Success King Marketing Inc. Blog Insights: From Hyper-Independent to Human: Learning How to Accept Help — Why accepting help can become part of strength rather than a sign of weakness. When Helping Becomes Controlling: What I Learned About Fear and Love — Exploring the connection between fear, love, control, and personal growth. The Gift of Being Single (More Joy, Less Fear) — Finding greater peace, independence, and personal growth. Why I Always Thought Other People Were Upset with Me — Understanding fear, self-perception, and emotional reactions. The Power of Imperfect Work — Why waiting for perfection can prevent meaningful progress. Why Growth Stalls After Early Success — What happens when progress slows and how to keep moving forward. Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill — Adapting to change and continuing to grow in a rapidly changing world. [Why We Keep Accepting the Same Painful Relationship Patterns] Final Thought You may not be able to control everything happening around you. But you can often control the next decision. The next meal. The next conversation. The next step. The next hour. The next attempt. You do not have to wait for the chaos to end before you begin changing your life. Sometimes, the most meaningful transformation happens while the chaos is still happening. Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. Then keep going. Success King Marketing Inc. Blog Insight Team [SHOP EBOOKS NOW → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop/] This article is intended for educational and inspirational purposes. Personal health, fitness, nutrition, grief, and lifestyle decisions should be discussed with appropriately qualified professionals when necessary. Individual results vary. --- ## Mastering The Art Of Investing Outstanding Guide URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/mastering-the-art-of-invesng-ebook/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-05 Mastering the Art of Investing eBook ( smart investing for beginners, build wealth with investing, risk analysis and portfolio diversification) Unlock the secrets to building lasting wealth with Mastering the Art of Investing. This powerful eBook is your complete guide to understanding investments, minimizing risks, and maximizing returns. Written in simple, actionable language, it equips beginners and aspiring investors with the knowledge to make smart financial decisions in today’s fast-changing markets. Inside, you’ll explore different investment options — from stocks, bonds, and mutual funds to real estate and modern assets — along with strategies to grow your money steadily and securely. What You’ll Learn:✅ Fundamentals of smart investing for beginners✅ Proven strategies to build wealth over time✅ How to analyze risks & diversify your portfolio✅ Step-by-step guidance on stocks, bonds & real estate✅ Mindset shifts for long-term financial success Whether you’re new to investing or looking to sharpen your skills, this eBook will give you the clarity and confidence to take control of your financial future. Mastering the Art of Investing is more than a guide — it’s your blueprint to financial independence. --- ## Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into Reality URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/how-to-manifest-your-dreams/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-03 How to Manifest Your Dream Life Step by Step What if creating the life you truly want begins with changing the way you think, believe, and act? Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into Reality is an empowering personal development eBook designed to help you turn meaningful goals and aspirations into purposeful action. If you want to learn, develop a stronger mindset, overcome self-doubt, and create a clearer vision for your future, this practical guide gives you a step-by-step framework to get started.Manifestation is more than simply wishing for something to happen.   It involves clarifying what you want, developing empowering beliefs, visualizing your goals, setting intentional intentions, and taking consistent action toward the future you want to build.   This eBook combines mindset practices with practical exercises to help you become more focused, confident, motivated, and intentional in everyday life.   Whether your goals involve strong&amp;gt;financial freedom, relationships, health and wellness, career growth, personal success, or greater happiness. This guide can help you examine the beliefs and habits that may be holding you back.   You’ll learn how to replace limiting thought patterns with a more constructive mi ndset and create practical routines that keep your goals in focus.   What You’ll Learnstrong andProven Manifestation Technics; Explore practical manifestation methods that can help you clarify your desires and maintain focus on meaningful goals . Mindset Mastery:Discover daily practices for developing positive thinking, strengthening self-belief, and creating a more intentional mindset. Visualization and Affirmations: Learn how visualization and positive affirmations can support motivation, focus, confidence, and goal-oriented thinking. Overcoming Resistance: Identify fear, self-doubt, procrastination, and limiting beliefs that can interfere with personal Intentional Living: Learn how to turn your intentions into realistic goals, productive habits, and consistent daily actions. Turn Your Vision Into Action Your dreams become more ac hievable when you give them direction. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, use the principles in this book to clarify what you want, create an action plan, and take meaningful steps forward. Manifest Your Dreams is a practical companion for anyone interested in manifestation, personal growth, positive thinking, goal setting, self-improvement, and creating a more purposeful life. Start transforming your vision into action today. Get your copy from Success King Marketing Inc. and begin your journey toward a more focused, intentional, and empowered future. SEO intent: manifestation, personal development, mindset, goal setting, visualization, positive thinking, intentional living --- ## 📘 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/100-digital-marketing-tips-2026/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-02 📘 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 🚀 Your Ultimate Growth Playbook for Digital Marketing Success Are you tired of complex, overhyped marketing advice that doesn’t deliver? Success King Marketing Inc presents 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026, the no-fluff, results-driven eBook designed for entrepreneurs, marketers, and business owners who want to grow faster, smarter, and more profitably online. This is more than just an eBook—it’s your practical, actionable playbook for dominating the digital landscape in 2026. 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Grab your copy of 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 today and start implementing strategies that actually work! 📝 Short Product Description (Optimized for Meta & Social Sharing) 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 🚀 by Success King Marketing Inc. The ultimate affordable, no-fluff eBook for entrepreneurs & marketers. Master SEO, social media, email marketing, and PPC with proven, actionable strategies. Get your growth playbook and start seeing real results today! 📘✨ #DigitalMarketing2026   --- ## Kindness vs. Boundaries Guide for Parents & Professionals URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/kindness-vs-boundaries-guide-for-parents-professionals/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-01 A Must Have Guide For Parents And Professionals Balancing Kindness With Clear Boundaries is a passionate, practical, and perseverant roadmap to harmonize empathy with firm limits—across parenting and professional environments. Description Discover actionable strategies to nurture kindness without compromising boundaries. Ideal for parents, teachers, counselors, HR professionals, managers, and care providers. Includes real-life case studies, evidence-based techniques, and ready-to-use tools. Why this eBook is your essential guide Combines compassionate leadership with clear boundaries to improve outcomes for children, clients, students, and teams. Builds emotional intelligence, fosters healthier communication, and enhances resilience. Offers practical frameworks you can apply immediately in daily interactions—at home and at work. Designed for busy readers: concise guidance, concise steps, and real-life applications. What you’ll learn (Key Benefits) Master the balance between kindness and boundaries in any relationship. Identify and address toxic behavior without escalating conflicts. Strengthen emotional intelligence to read and respond to needs effectively. Employ compassionate communication techniques that get results. Apply kindness strategically in parenting to support growth and safety. Create respectful, productive dynamics in professional settings. Build resilience through consistent, values-driven practices. Implement long-term strategies to maintain balance as circumstances evolve. Translate theory into practice with case studies and real-life applications. Table of Contents Understanding Kindness and Boundaries Foundational concepts for healthy interactions and safe environments. Identifying Toxic Behaviour Red flags, assessment techniques, and constructive responses. The Role of Emotional Intelligence Self-awareness, self-regulation, and social awareness in daily choices. Compassionate Communication Techniques Clear, respectful dialogue that preserves dignity and clarity. Kindness In Parenting Age-appropriate approaches that nurture trust and safety. Kindness In Professional Settings Boundaries that support performance, morale, and collaboration. Building Resilience Through Kindness Practices that sustain well-being under stress. Long-Term Strategies for Maintaining Balance Systems, routines, and habits that endure over time. Case Studies and Real-Life Applications Illustrative scenarios across parenting and workplace contexts. Looking Ahead: The Future of Kindness and Boundaries Emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities. Who should read this book Parents seeking healthier, more effective parenting approaches. Teachers, school counselors, and administrators. HR professionals, team leads, and managers. Clinicians, coaches, and caregivers working with families or organizations. Anyone interested in improving interpersonal dynamics with empathy and boundaries. Why this book stands out Practical, ready-to-use tools grounded in emotional intelligence and compassionate communication. Clear, concise chapters with actionable steps, checklists, and real-life relevance. Call to action Ready to transform how you lead with Kindness without sacrificing Boundaries? Get your copy of “Balancing Kindness and Boundaries” today and start applying proven techniques in both Parenting and Professional settings. --- ## 📘 The Art And Science Of Ayurveda To Modern Wellness🌿🧘‍♀️ URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/the-art-and-science-of-ayurveda-to-modern-wellness/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-01 A Practical Guide to Modern Wellness  Evidence eBook🌿🧘‍♀️ Discover The Art and Science of Ayurveda to Modern Wellness by Vinay Kumar Singh, a practical, evidence-informed ebook that brings ancient Ayurvedic wisdom into everyday life. This approachable guide blends tradition with modern clarity to help you build sustainable routines, strengthen digestion and immunity, and cultivate mental calm—designed for beginners, busy professionals, and wellness practitioners alike. Why this book stands out Blends classical Ayurvedic principles with clear, actionable steps for modern living ✅ Focuses on daily routines, seasonal adjustments, diet, and self-care for lasting balance 🌞🍲 Practical, evidence-aware approach that’s accessible for newcomers and valuable for practitioners 📚 Real-world examples and simple exercises to create a personalized wellness plan What you’ll learn Understand Ayurveda as the “Science of Life” and apply it to contemporary health ⚖️ Identify your dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and customize daily routines to your constitution 🧬 Implement Dinacharya (daily routines) and Ritucharya (seasonal living) to optimize energy 🔁 Improve digestion, metabolism (Agni), immunity, and vitality through diet and lifestyle 🍽️💪 Practice mind-body techniques for stress management, sleep, and emotional balance 🧘‍♂️🌙 Build a personalized, practical Ayurvedic plan with simple daily steps 📝 Who this ebook is for Beginners seeking a friendly introduction to Ayurveda Wellness enthusiasts and practitioners wanting actionable practices Busy professionals, parents, and caregivers aiming for sustainable health Anyone curious about natural, time-tested approaches to prevention and well-being Format & features Digital ebook: PDF, EPUB, MOBI — quick reference or in-depth study 💻📱 Clear, concise language with real-world examples and step-by-step routines Practical charts, routines, and simple exercises to start immediately About the author Vinay Kumar Singh is a dedicated advocate for holistic healing and practical Ayurveda. His accessible style makes age-old wisdom relevant for today’s fast-paced life. Hashtags; #Dinacharya #Ritucharya #Dosha #VataPittaKapha #AyurvedaLifestyle #AyurvedaDiet #MindBodyWellness #WellnessJourney #HolisticLiving #VedicWisdom #TraditionalMedicine #HealthyLiving #Ayurveda #NaturalRemedies #DailyRoutines #Agni #Digestion #Immunity Ready to begin your wellness journey? Get your copy of The Art and Science of Ayurveda today and start integrating time-tested wisdom with modern wellness practices. 🌱 Also Check: The Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 2026 --- ## The Ultimate Guide to Thriving in Today’s Business. URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/the-ultimate-guide-to-thriving-in-todays-business/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-01 Success In Business: The Ultimate Guide to Thriving in Today’s Business In a fast-changing world, success belongs to those who adapt, innovate, and take action. Success In Business: The Ultimate Guide to Thriving in Today’s Business is a powerful resource designed to help entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners stay ahead of the curve. This eBook breaks down proven strategies for navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and building resilience in today’s competitive environment. From mastering modern business trends to adopting smart financial practices and sharpening decision-making skills, this guide equips you with the knowledge to grow and sustain success. What You’ll Learn:✅ How to identify and capitalize on market opportunities✅ Practical strategies for business growth & innovation✅ Effective financial management tips✅ Leadership & productivity hacks for long-term success✅ Ways to stay adaptable in uncertain times Whether you’re a startup founder, a small business owner, or a professional looking to future-proof your career, this guide will give you the clarity, confidence, and tools to thrive. Relevant keyphrases & keywords thriving in today’s market business growth strategies market opportunities innovation & resilience modern business trends financial management tips smart decision-making leadership & productivity adapt in uncertain times future-proof your career startup founder guide small business success Hashtags + emojis 🚀 #ThrivingInTodaysMarket 📈 #BusinessGrowth 💡 #Innovation 🛠️ #EntrepreneurTips 💰 #FinancialManagement 🧠 #SmartDecisionMaking 👥 #LeadershipSkills 📊 #MarketTrends 🔄 #Adaptability ⚡ #ProductivityHacks 🌱 #ResilienceBuilding 🎯 #ActionPlan --- ## How To Start A New Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/how-to-start-a-new-business-2026-a-step-by-step-guide/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-01 📘 A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Business Success How to Start a Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Success is a practical, beginner-friendly ebook designed to help startup founders and entrepreneurs turn a business idea into a real, launch-ready company—step by step. Whether you’re building a product or service, planning your first online or offline business, or looking for a clear roadmap to reduce uncertainty, this guide gives you the structure and confidence you need to move from idea → planning → launch → growth. ✅ What You’ll Learn (From Startup Basics to Launch & Scale) Inside this ebook, you’ll walk through the complete entrepreneurship journey, including: 🧠 The Entrepreneurial Foundation Building the right mindset Finding your “why” (purpose + passion vs profit) Overcoming fear, doubt, and failure Developing discipline, resilience, and goal-setting habits 💡 From Idea to Concept How to generate and validate business ideas Market research basics + understanding customer needs Competitor analysis Choosing the best business model (product vs service, subscription, affiliate, franchise, online vs offline) 📝 Planning & Business Setup Creating a simple, effective business plan Financial projections and goals Business legal structures (sole proprietorship, partnership, Pvt. Ltd., LLP) Registration steps, licenses, and permits (overview) Bookkeeping, cash flow management, and business banking basics Branding essentials (business name, logo identity, professional image) 🚀 Launching Your Startup MVP/prototype creation and testing Pricing strategies Building an online presence (website + social growth) SEO and digital marketing basics Pre-launch checklist + launch-day strategy 📈 Marketing, Sales & Growth Defining target markets and creating marketing strategy Building a sales funnel Customer relationship management (CRM approach) Retention strategies, loyalty programs, feedback loops Scaling methods (automation, outsourcing, new market expansion) 🏁 Sustaining Success Long-Term Budgeting, taxes overview, and funding/investment readiness Leadership, team culture, conflict handling Risk mitigation, pivoting, and sustainability Exit strategies (sell/merge/IPO overview) 🎯 Who This Ebook Is For This ebook is perfect for: US & Europe startups first-time founders entrepreneurs switching from idea to action anyone who wants a clear roadmap without overwhelm founders building a business in the early planning, launch, or growth stage 🌍 Worldwide Friendly (Especially for US & Europe) Written in simple, practical language, the steps are easy to follow whether you’re starting in the US, Europe, or anywhere else—and it focuses on the universal fundamentals of starting and growing a business. ⭐ Why Buyers Choose This Book Straightforward, beginner-friendly guidance Full startup workflow: mindset → validation → plan → launch → growth Helpful structure to reduce “what do I do next?” confusion Includes resources like templates/checklists and launch guidance ✅ Your Next Step Start your entrepreneurial journey with How to Start a Business: A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Success. Get the ebook now from Success King Marketing Inc (Ebook Store) 🚀 #; #Entrepreneur #StartupGuide #SmallBusiness #BusinessTips #StartUpLife #BusinessPlanning #MarketingStrategy #SalesFunnel #Entrepreneurship #NewBusiness #DigitalMarketing #BrandBuilding #LeanStartup #GrowthMindset #WomenInBusiness #BusinessOwner #MVP #MarketResearch #HowToStartANewBusiness:AStep-by-Step GuidefromIdeatoBusinessSuccess   --- ## The AI Customer Journey Blueprint URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/the-ai-customer-journey-blueprint-2/ Type: product Modified: 2026-10-01 The AI Customer Journey Blueprint How to Make Your Business the One AI Recommends First Author: Awung Ngang Published by Success King Marketing Inc. Master AI-powered marketing, build trust, and position your business to be discovered by ChatGPT, Google AI, Gemini, and Perplexity. Future-Proof Your Business for the Age of AI The way customers choose businesses has changed forever. Instead of opening dozens of websites, today’s buyers ask AI assistants like ChatGPT, Google AI, Gemini, and Perplexity for recommendations before making purchasing decisions. Businesses with clear expertise, trustworthy content, and structured online visibility are increasingly better positioned to appear in these AI-assisted discovery experiences. Get access to “AI Customer Journey Blueprint” TechRadar Will your business be one of the companies AI recommends? If you’re an entrepreneur, affiliate marketer, freelancer, coach, consultant, or small business owner, this eBook “AI Customer Journey Blueprint”gives you a practical roadmap for building a business that earns trust from both customers and AI-powered search platforms. What You’ll Learn The AI Customer Journey Understand how buyers discover, compare, and choose businesses using AI assistants. The AI Visibility Framework Learn how to become Findable, Credible, and Retrievable online. Website Optimization Turn your website into a conversion-focused sales machine. Content Authority Create content that builds trust and demonstrates expertise. Customer Trust Signals Use reviews, testimonials, and case studies more effectively. 30-Day AI Growth Plan Follow a step-by-step implementation roadmap. Worksheets & Checklists Audit your business and track your progress. What’s Inside the eBook 24 professionally designed pages Premium blue-and-gold Success King Marketing Inc. branding Interactive planning worksheets Business growth action checklists 30-Day implementation planner Instant digital download Who This eBook Is For This guide is perfect for: Small Business Owners Entrepreneurs Affiliate Marketers Digital Marketers Consultants Coaches Content Creators Online Store Owners Freelancers Agency Owners Whether you’re just starting or growing an established business, this blueprint helps you adapt to the new AI-powered buying journey. Why This eBook Matters Modern customers don’t just search—they ask questions. They expect instant answers, trusted recommendations, and clear comparisons before making decisions. Businesses that create helpful, structured, and trustworthy content are increasingly better positioned for visibility across AI-assisted discovery platforms. TechRadar Instead of relying on outdated SEO tactics alone, you’ll learn how to combine: AI Search Optimization Customer Trust Building Website Conversion Strategies Content Marketing Digital Authority into one practical system you can implement immediately. Bonus Value When you purchase The AI Customer Journey Blueprint, you’ll also receive guidance on: AI Visibility Audits Customer Journey Mapping Website Improvement Checklists Content Planning Frameworks AI Prompt Ideas for Business Research These tools help you turn knowledge into measurable action. Product Specifications Feature Details Format Digital PDF Pages 24 Author Awung Ngang Publisher Success King Marketing Inc. Delivery Instant Download Language English License Personal Use Why Buy From Success King Marketing Inc.? At Success King Marketing Inc., we’re committed to helping entrepreneurs succeed in today’s digital economy through affordable, practical, and results-focused educational resources. Our marketplace offers: Digital Marketing Guides Affiliate Marketing Resources Business Growth eBooks AI Marketing Training Online Business Tools Visit SKMarketsInc.com to discover more business-building resources. Call-to-Action Don’t Let AI Leave Your Business Behind Equip yourself with the strategies modern businesses need to stay visible, earn trust, and attract more customers in the age of AI. Download The AI Customer Journey Blueprint today and start building a business AI can confidently recommend. Get Instant Access Now Digital Download • Secure Purchase • Start Learning Immediately Cross-Sell Opportunities Related products on SKMarketsInc.com: 100 Digital Marketing Tips Affiliate Marketing 101 The Prosperity Blueprint Business Growth Guides AI Marketing Resources Bundle --- ## Emotional Reactivity: Stuck in Survival Mode? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/emotional-reactivity-survival-mode/ Type: product Modified: 2026-09-29 Are You Highly Emotionally Reactive? You Might Be Stuck in Survival Mode Learn How to Move Out of Survival Mode and Build Emotional Resilience! A Practical Guide to Moving From Survival to Regulation. Description: Unlock your nervous system’s signals and reclaim calmness(Survival Mode). This concise, practical guide helps you recognize patterns of (emotional reactivity), understand how survival instincts drive behavior, and learn concrete strategies to shift from frantic responses to regulated, intentional living. Perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed by intense emotions and wants a clear, doable plan to move toward balance, resilience, and everyday ease. What you’ll get: Clear explanations of emotional reactivity and its roots in survival mode Actionable tools to regulate emotions in real time A practical 30-day plan to build sustainable regulation habits Easy-to-follow formatting you can apply immediately in daily life Who is this for: Adults seeking practical strategies to reduce emotional overwhelm Individuals looking to improve self-regulation, focus, and decision-making Readers interested in mental wellness, neuroscience-informed approaches, and personal growth Key benefits: Short, actionable steps you can start today Simple language that makes complex concepts accessible A repeatable framework for moving from reactiveness to regulation Printable templates and prompts you can use with therapy, coaching, or self-study Format and accessibility: Available as an EBook (PDF) and a 30 Day Plan Workbook Desktop and mobile-friendly formats Designed for quick reading with a practical, no-fluff approach Why this title matters: Keyword-rich, clear messaging about the core problem (emotional reactivity) and the solution (regulation) Strong, benefit-focused phrasing that resonates with readers seeking relief and actionable practice CTA: Ready to break free from survival mode? Grab your copy now and start your 30-day journey to calmer days and clearer thinking. Your regulated future begins with one small, powerful step today. Keywords: emotional reactivity,Highly Emotionally Reactive,emotional regulation,survival mode,nervous system regulation,self-regulation strategies,mental wellness,Stuck in Survival Mode,burnout prevention,mindfulness starter guide,coping skills,stress management,cognitive-behavioral techniques,resilience building,daily practice,30-day plan. Related hashtags #EmotionalWellness #EmotionalRegulation #SurvivalModeBreakthrough #MindfulnessPractice #SelfRegulation #MentalHealthAwareness #NeuroscienceForWellness #DailyGrowth #WellbeingJourney #CalmInChaos   --- ## The Gift of Being Single: More Joy, Less Fear URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-gift-of-being-single-more-joy-less-fear/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-29 Discover how embracing single life can build confidence, strengthen independence, improve well-being, and help you create a more fulfilling future. By Skminc | Success King Marketing Inc. Categories: Relationships, Self-Help, Personal Development, Lifestyle.   The Gift Of Being Single. More Joy Less Fear Discovering yourself     Introduction: Embrace the Gift of Being Single Being single is not a sign that something is missing from your life. It can be an opportunity to discover who you are, pursue meaningful goals, strengthen friendships, and enjoy life on your own terms. Society sometimes creates pressure to find a romantic partner, get married, or follow a particular relationship timeline. However, your relationship status does not determine your worth, happiness, or potential. The gift of being single lies in recognizing that your life can be meaningful today—not only after meeting someone special. Whether you are single by choice, recovering from a breakup, or simply exploring your next chapter, you can use this season to grow, build confidence, and discover new possibilities. 1. Discover Who You Really Are When you are single, you have more opportunities to explore your interests, values, strengths, and ambitions without constantly negotiating relationship expectations. Ask yourself: What makes me genuinely happy? Which goals have I postponed? What skills would I like to develop? What kind of life do I want to create? Use your answers to build a personal growth plan. You might learn a new skill, start a business, improve your fitness, travel, or develop a creative hobby. Personal growth does not require a romantic partner. It begins with curiosity, consistent action, and a willingness to learn. Success King Marketing Inc. tip: Explore our digital learning resources and eBooks to discover practical ideas for personal development, online business, and digital marketing. Visit Success King Marketing Inc. 2. Enjoy More Freedom and Independence One benefit of single life is the freedom to make decisions based on your own priorities. You can organize your schedule, pursue professional opportunities, manage your finances, and explore new destinations according to your circumstances and goals. Independence also means accepting responsibility for your choices. Create a realistic budget, establish healthy routines, and set goals that reflect the future you want. If travel interests you, consider planning a solo trip or a holiday with friends. Travel booking services can help you compare accommodation and travel options before committing to a purchase. Remember that freedom is not about avoiding responsibility. It is about taking an active role in shaping your life. 3. Replace Fear With Self-Confidence Fear of being single can develop from social expectations, loneliness, past relationship experiences, or uncertainty about the future. However, entering a relationship simply to avoid being alone may prevent you from considering whether that relationship meets your needs and values. Instead, build confidence through small, consistent actions. Keep promises you make to yourself. Practice making decisions independently. Celebrate progress rather than demanding perfection. Set boundaries that protect your time and well-being. Learn to enjoy your own company without withdrawing from others. A 2026 study published in Personality and Social Psychological Bulletin examined how seeing singlehood as an opportunity for personal growth related to well-being. Across three studies, this outlook was associated with greater satisfaction with single life and less fear of being single. These findings describe associations and study-specific effects; they do not mean everyone will experience singlehood in the same way. Read the research abstract on PubMed. Confidence grows when you recognize that your value is not dependent on another person’s approval. 4. Build Meaningful Friendships and Connections Being single does not mean being alone. Strong friendships, supportive family relationships, professional networks, and community activities can provide companionship, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Make time for people who respect your boundaries and support your growth. Join a class, attend community events, volunteer, or reconnect with friends you have not seen recently. Healthy connections are valuable whether or not you are pursuing a romantic relationship. If loneliness becomes difficult to manage, acknowledge your feelings and seek connection rather than judging yourself for having them. 5. Invest in Your Personal and Financial Growth Single life can provide an opportunity to review your finances, develop professional skills, and work toward long-term goals. Start with practical steps: Create a monthly budget and monitor spending. Build an emergency fund according to your circumstances. Explore training that supports your career or business goals. Develop a side project or investigate a business idea carefully. Set realistic savings and learning targets. If you want to build an online business, explore relevant eBooks, digital marketing education, and practical resources from Success King Marketing Inc. Our featured learning topics include digital marketing, AI-powered customer journeys, and business growth strategies. Choose resources that match your current goals and apply what you learn consistently. Explore our shop: https://skmarketsinc.com You can also research relevant ClickBank learning products, Amazon books and tools, and Real PPV traffic services if they fit your business needs. Compare costs, terms, and suitability before purchasing. Paid traffic does not guarantee visitors will become customers or generate profit. 6. Make Room for Joy, Adventure, and New Experiences A fulfilling life is built through experiences, relationships, meaningful work, and everyday moments—not relationship status alone. Try something new each month. Visit a place you have never explored, learn a language, attend an event, start exercising, or spend time on a creative project. You do not need an expensive holiday or a dramatic life change to make progress. Small experiences can introduce fresh perspectives and help you develop new interests. Create a list of experiences you want to enjoy this year. Include affordable activities, personal milestones, and opportunities to connect with others. Person enjoying personal growth and new experiences while single. 7. Remember That Being Single Is a Valid Life Choice Being single is not automatically better or worse than being in a relationship. People have different needs, priorities, and life circumstances. Some people find fulfillment in long-term partnerships. Others enjoy single life, and some move between different relationship stages throughout their lives. The important thing is to make choices that reflect your values rather than acting solely from fear, pressure, or comparison. You can welcome a future relationship without putting your current life on hold. You can also choose to remain single without needing to justify that decision to everyone around you. Your journey is your own. Conclusion: Choose Growth, Joy, and a Life That Fits You The gift of being single is the opportunity to live intentionally, discover your strengths, strengthen meaningful connections, and pursue goals that matter to you. You do not need to have every answer today. Start by investing in yourself, caring for your well-being, and taking one practical step toward the life you want. Whether your future includes a romantic partner or continued independence, you deserve a life filled with purpose, connection, confidence, and joy. Ready to take your next step? Visit Success King Marketing Inc. to explore our Blog Insights and digital eBooks for ideas to support your personal development, business education, and online growth. Learn Today. Build Tomorrow. Frequently Asked Questions Is it normal to enjoy being single? Yes. People differ in their relationship preferences and circumstances. Many find single life fulfilling through independence, friendships, meaningful activities, and personal growth. How can I stop being afraid of being single? Explore the source of your fear, challenge unhelpful assumptions, strengthen your support network, and develop interests and goals that give your life meaning. If persistent anxiety or distress affects daily life, consider speaking with a qualified mental health professional. Can being single help me grow as a person? It can. Single life may offer opportunities to explore interests, learn skills, and develop independence. Your experience will depend on your circumstances, choices, and support system. How can I make the most of single life? Set personal goals, maintain meaningful friendships, care for your well-being, manage your finances, and make time for new experiences. Build a life that reflects your values rather than other people’s expectations. Editorial note This article provides general lifestyle and personal-development information. Individual experiences of singlehood vary, and the article is not a substitute for professional mental health advice. Related Blog Insight | Personal development and self-confidence | Relevant Self-Help article on your site | | Practical tips for building a happier life | Related Blog Insights article | | Business growth strategies | Success in Business Online Course eBook | | Digital marketing tips for online success | 100 Digital Marketing Tips eBook | | AI and the customer journey | The AI Customer Journey Blueprint eBook | | Explore our digital eBooks | Success King Marketing Inc. | For product links, direct readers to the relevant product pages in your shop rather than linking every product to the homepage. I could not verify the individual shop URLs, so these should be inserted from your published WordPress pages.   Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this article may be affiliate links. Success King Marketing Inc. may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Recommendations should be evaluated based on your needs, budget, and the provider’s terms. --- ## The Truth About My Marriage I Finally Had to Face URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-truth-about-my-marriage-i-finally-had-to-face/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-28 A Story About Self-Worth, Emotional Growth, and Recognizing When Love Is No Longer Enough Author: Skminc – Cynthia N. Website: Success King Marketing Inc Website Url:https://skmarketsinc.com   Woman reflecting on life after divorce and emotional healing. “You don’t have to set yourself on fire to keep other people warm.” — Skminc- Awung Ngang. Tomorrow, a court will grant me a divorce after eleven years of marriage. I’ve spent the last several months rereading a decade of my own life like evidence in a case, trying to understand how I got here. What I found surprised me: not one dramatic betrayal, but hundreds of small moments where I chose to make myself smaller so the relationship could stay intact. When Love Began Before We Really Knew Each Other I met my husband when we were teenagers, through a mutual friend, and fell for him the way you fall for someone you’ve never actually met—through harmless texts and inside jokes, before either of us had to be a real, imperfect person in front of the other. When I finally tried to meet him in real life, a year into our texting, his response to my suggestion was a cold “Why do you want to meet?” I remember the specific feeling—like a rug pulled out from under me—and I remember doing what I would keep doing for the next decade: deciding it was probably nothing, and staying. Early relationship built through texting and emotional distance. The Slow Erosion of a Relationship Over the years there were more moments like that. A cutting remark dressed up as a joke, followed by an apology that reframed the remark rather than took it back. A pattern where any insecurity I voiced got returned to me as evidence that was “too much,” while anything he needed became simply true, obvious and mine to accommodate. None of it, on its own, seemed like a reason to leave. That’s the trouble with slow erosion—it never hands you a single moment dramatic enough to act on. It just quietly recalibrates what you think normal feels like. Holding Two Truths at the Same Time I want to be honest about something, because this is the part most people skip when they tell stories like this: I wasn’t only patient and wronged. I fought back, sometimes unfairly said things in anger and later regretted. I leaned on him more than was fair to either of us, treating him as my only anchor when I should have built more anchors of my own. A good closure story isn’t the one where you were blameless. It’s the one where you can hold your own mistakes and someone else’s pattern of harm as two separate, simultaneous truths—without letting the first one erase the second. Personal reflection through journaling and healing. The Moment I Realized It Was Over The end came, as these things often do, without a single triggering event. He told me, out of nowhere, that he’d stopped loving me the way he used to, that he felt numb, that he needed space to “reevaluate.” I spent the months after that doing what I imagine a lot of people do—trying to find the thread that would let me pull the relationship back together. I went to therapy and read everything I could about attachment and communication. I joined a support group for people healing from relationships with emotionally issues and unavailable or personallity disorder, and for the first time, my ten years of specific, small, hard-to-explain moments started to form a legible pattern instead of a fog of self-doubt. Even so, I did one more hard thing before  letting myself close the door: I met him in person, one last time, so I could hear whatever he had to say without a screen or a delay between us. The Conversation That Changed Everything Everyone in my support group warned me this might retraumatize me. but i did it anyway, because I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life wondering if I’d walked away from something salvageable, or building a story about him that was kinder than the truth. He talked for over two hours and barely made eye contact. He told me our relationship had felt transactional to him, that he couldn’t remember much we’d built together besides travel—conveniently forgetting the books we read aloud to each other before sleeping, the audiobooks on long drives, the music medleys we made up together, and the movies we cried through side by side. When I asked him directly what he thought the best version of himself looked like, hoping for some flicker of reflection, he said: “Honestly, I think I am already the best version of me.” That sentence did more to end my marriage than anything else in eleven years. Not because it was cruel—it wasn’t said cruelly at all—but because it told me, plainly, that there was no one on the other side of this relationship willing to keep growing alongside me. I had spent a decade trying to hold two people’s emotional development. I couldn’t keep doing that and remain a whole person myself. A difficult final conversation. The Lesson I Wish Someone Had Told Me Sooner Here is what I wish someone had told me earlier and what I hope reaches whoever needs it now: A Pattern Is Not the Same as a Phase If you find yourself, years into something, still waiting for someone to become emotionally available “once things settle down,” Only they can build that, and only if they’re willing to look honestly at themselves—which is a decision no amount of your love can change. Why This Story Matters Many people experience relationships that don’t end because of one dramatic event but because of years of subtle emotional erosion. Learning to recognize recurring patterns, invest in personal growth, and rebuild your sense of self can become the beginning of a healthier future. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak, healing after divorce, or simply reflecting on your own relationships, remember that growth begins with honesty—and honesty often begins by seeing patterns for what they are. Continue Your Personal Growth Journey Explore more resources from Success King Marketing Inc designed to help you build confidence, strengthen your mindset, and create lasting success. Recommended eBooks from Our Shop 100 Digital Marketing Tips Practical strategies for growing your online presence. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI can improve every stage of your customer experience. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for entrepreneurs and business owners. Success in Business Online Course Build a stronger business with practical growth strategies. Visit skmarketsinc.com  to discover our complete collection of digital products and Blog Insights articles. Explore More Ways to Save and Grow Success King Marketing Inc also connects readers with carefully selected affiliate resources: ClickBank Digital Products – Personal development, business, and wellness offers. Amazon Deals – Popular tools, books, and everyday essentials. Travel Booking Services – Find accommodations and travel opportunities. Real PPV Traffic – Advertising solutions for growing your online business. These resources complement our educational content and can help support your personal and professional goals. Related Blog Insights Are You Emotionally Reactive? You May Be Stuck in Survival Mode What Is Happiness Without Love? Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment Why Leaders Need Better Perspective, Not More Data The AI Customer Journey Blueprint FAQ What is emotional erosion in a relationship? Emotional erosion refers to the gradual loss of confidence, safety, and connection through repeated small interactions rather than one major event. How do I know if a relationship pattern is unhealthy? Look for recurring behaviors that consistently leave you feeling unheard, dismissed, or responsible for carrying the emotional weight of the relationship. Can personal growth continue after divorce? Yes. Many people find therapy, support groups, journaling, and healthy relationships helpful in rebuilding confidence and creating a stronger future. This article is shared as a personal reflection intended to encourage thoughtful conversation about relationships, emotional growth, and healing. --- ## When Helping Becomes Controlling: How Fear Can Disguise Itself as Love URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/when-helping-becomes-controlling/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-27 The surprising lesson from Carl Rogers on empathy, boundaries, and healthier relationships Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc – Blog Insights URL: https://skmarketsinc.com Category: Personal Development | Relationships | Emotional Intelligence   Helping someone while respecting healthy boundaries and personal growth. When Love Starts Taking Over Most people never wake up intending to control someone they care about. They simply want to help. Give advice and or solve problems. They step in before they’re asked. At first, these actions feel loving. Over time, however, something subtle can happen: helping begins replacing trust. This is one of the most important insights found in discussions surrounding Carl Rogers’ humanistic psychology—real love encourages growth rather than dependence. Healthy relationships thrive when empathy is paired with respect for another person’s ability to make their own choices. Recent reflections on this topic have resonated with many readers because they highlight a common emotional blind spot: fear often hides beneath our desire to protect others. Comfort a Life+1 The lesson isn’t to stop helping. The lesson is learning how to help without taking away someone else’s freedom. Carl Rogers’ Perspective on Healthy Relationships Carl Rogers believed people naturally move toward growth when they’re supported with empathy, acceptance, and authenticity. His work introduced principles that continue influencing counseling, leadership, parenting, and communication today. Instead of trying to “fix” people, Rogers emphasized: Genuine listening Unconditional positive regard Respect for autonomy Trust in people’s ability to grow This perspective creates a powerful question: Am I helping because they need support—or because I’m afraid of what will happen if I let go? That single question can transform relationships. The Thin Line Between Helping and Controlling Helping becomes controlling when support begins limiting another person’s independence. It rarely happens overnight. Instead, it often follows a gradual pattern. | Healthy Support | Controlling Behavior | | — | — | | Offers choices | Makes decisions for others | | Listens first | Assumes what’s best | | Encourages independence | Creates dependency | | Respects boundaries | Invades personal space | | Trusts growth | Fears mistakes | Many people don’t recognize the shift because their intentions remain positive. The motivation, however, slowly changes. Love becomes mixed with fear. Fear Wears Many Disguises Fear doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it sounds responsible. “I just want what’s best.” “And trying to protect you.” “You might fail if I don’t help.” These thoughts often come from genuine care. Yet psychology suggests that fear of loss, rejection, abandonment, or uncertainty can unintentionally push people toward controlling behaviors. Comfort a Life+1 The problem isn’t caring too much. Or allowing fear to replace trust. Five Signs Your Help May Be Crossing the Line 1. You Solve Problems Before You’re Asked Sometimes people need support. They simply need someone to listen. Offering solutions too quickly can unintentionally communicate: “I don’t trust you to figure this out.” 2. You Feel Responsible for Their Happiness Healthy relationships involve care—not ownership. If someone else’s emotions completely determine your emotional state, boundaries may need strengthening. 3. You Become Frustrated When They Ignore Your Advice Advice should be a gift. Once it’s offered, the other person has the right to accept—or decline—it. 4. You Mistake Protection for Control Protective instincts are natural. But preventing every mistake also prevents growth. People often learn resilience through experience. 5. You Fear Letting Go This is perhaps the biggest warning sign. If helping feels necessary because you’re afraid of what happens without your involvement, fear may be leading the relationship. Why Autonomy Builds Stronger Relationships Rogers believed people flourish when they experience acceptance rather than judgment. Autonomy creates space for: Confidence Responsibility Emotional maturity Trust Personal growth Ironically, giving someone room to grow often strengthens relationships more than constant intervention ever could. People remember those who believed in them. Not just those who solved every problem. How to Practice Support Without Control Listen Before Advising Instead of immediately offering solutions, try asking: “What do you think would help?” “How are you feeling about this?” These questions communicate respect. Ask Permission Before giving advice, ask: “Would you like my thoughts?” This small habit preserves autonomy. Accept Different Choices Someone choosing differently isn’t always rejecting your wisdom. They’re exercising their own agency. Healthy love allows room for different paths. Trust the Process Growth often includes mistakes. Supporting someone doesn’t require eliminating every obstacle. Sometimes the greatest act of love is believing they’ll find their way. Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Business Too This lesson extends beyond personal relationships. Business leaders, entrepreneurs, parents, coaches, and marketers all face the same challenge. Do we empower people—or try to control outcomes? Great leadership mirrors Rogers’ philosophy. It creates environments where people feel: Heard Respected Trusted Capable The strongest businesses aren’t built through micromanagement. They’re built through trust. Key Takeaways Remember these principles whenever you find yourself wanting to “fix” someone: Help should empower—not replace independence. Fear often disguises itself as protection. Healthy boundaries strengthen relationships. Empathy begins with listening. Trust allows people to grow. Love becomes more powerful when it creates freedom instead of dependency. Recommended Resources from Success King Marketing Inc Continue your personal growth journey with resources from our OneStop Digital Hub. 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies to grow your online presence and increase sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI improves every stage of the customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Practical business growth strategies for today’s entrepreneurs. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for building wealth and making informed decisions. Visit **https://skmarketsinc.com**  to explore our growing collection of digital resources. Recommended Blog Insights Readers interested in this article may also enjoy: The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Why Leaders Need Better Perspective, Not More Data How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment Are You Emotionally Reactive? You May Be Stuck in Survival Mode Helpful Affiliate Resources Support your growth with trusted partner offers available through Success King Marketing Inc. ClickBank Digital Products – Business, health, and self-improvement resources. Amazon Featured Deals – Productivity tools, books, and business essentials. Travel Booking Services – Find hotels, flights, and travel deals. Real PPV Traffic – Promote your website and attract targeted visitors. Affiliate links may earn Success King Marketing Inc a commission at no additional cost to you. Frequently Asked Questions What does “helping becomes controlling” mean? It refers to situations where well-intentioned support begins limiting another person’s independence by making decisions for them or taking over responsibilities they could handle themselves. What would Carl Rogers recommend instead? Rogers emphasized empathy, unconditional positive regard, authentic communication, and respecting each person’s capacity for growth rather than trying to control outcomes. Can helping someone too much hurt a relationship? Yes. When support consistently removes another person’s autonomy, it can reduce trust, confidence, and personal responsibility over time.   Call to Action Learn Today. Build Tomorrow. Explore premium eBooks, Blog Insights, ClickBank digital products, Amazon deals, Travel Booking Services, and Real PPV Traffic solutions at Success King Marketing Inc—your OneStop Digital Hub for personal growth, business success, and smarter online opportunities. Website: URL: https://skmarketsinc.com --- ## Why We Keep Accepting the Same Painful Relationship Patterns URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-we-keep-accepting-the-same-painful-relationship-patterns/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-27 How Childhood Beliefs, Emotional Patterns, and Self-Worth Shape the Relationships We Choose Author: Blog-Insight Team – Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Category: Blog Insights | Relationships | Personal Growth | Emotional Resilience “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” — George Santayana Person sitting alone on a porch at sunset, symbolizing emotional healing and breaking painful relationship patterns. I was gone about two hours. I’d gone to see my stepbrother, who lived nearby. My girlfriend didn’t want to come, so I told her to rest, and I’d be back soon. When I got back to my father’s property, where we lived in the camper we’d bought together, it was gone. So was she. She’d packed my clothes into a bag and left them on my father’s porch on her way out. That told me everything I needed to know. The camper was the only place we’d been living, which meant I didn’t just lose a relationship that night. But, i also lost my address. When Someone Leaves Without Warning It was the second time in a year she’d disappeared like that. No calls. No warning. Just gone, until she decided to come back and be the easier version of herself again. I called my stepbrother. I posted online asking if anyone had seen her. Then I went back to his place and slept on his couch because there was nowhere else to go. That’s when the crying started. My kids weren’t really speaking to me at that point either, in the aftermath of a divorce a year earlier. The floor of my life had been pulled out from under me, and I was still standing on the spot where it used to be. Emotional Recovery Person sitting alone on a couch after a difficult breakup. The Friend Who Changed Everything The next morning, an old friend called. He’d seen my post overnight. He was about to leave for a week at his second home near the coast, and when he heard what happened, he told me to come with him. “Take a week off from your life,” he said. “Come get your head together.” A few hours later, we were on the road. He gave me a room. and handed me a hundred dollars because genuinely, i had almost nothing. He bought me a pair of flip-flops because I’d left with basically the clothes on my back. I want to sit with that detail for a second. My friend looked at a grown man with nothing, and the thing he did was make sure that man had shoes for his feet. The Story We Tell Ourselves A few days into staying with him, wearing flip-flops he’d bought me, I felt an old, familiar sentence start forming in my head: “Of course this happened. You’re not somebody people stay for.” Maybe you’ve had a version of this thought yourself. It’s the conclusion a kid reaches when the people who are supposed to show up don’t, over and over, until “I’m not worth staying for” stops feeling like a feeling and starts feeling like a fact. I caught it doing that, though. Noticing the sentence forming and asked it a question on purpose most mornings: “Is this actually true, or just the oldest story. Do I know how to tell myself when someone leaves?” Then I looked around the actual room. My friend had come to get me. A woman had left. The evidence in the room didn’t support the sentence my head was trying to hand me. Self Reflection Person journaling while reflecting on limiting beliefs. The Real Story Started Much Earlier Here’s what I didn’t understand yet, standing in those borrowed flip-flops: That porch wasn’t really the story. It was one scene in a much longer one. When I was around nine, there were stretches when my sister and I wouldn’t hear from our mother for months, or we would be left with our grandparents without really understanding why. At that age, I didn’t have the ability to understand whatever she might have been struggling with. I only knew that she wasn’t there. And I turned her absence into a belief about myself. As an adult, I’ve been able to look at my mother and those years with much more understanding and compassion. But the belief a child forms can survive long after the child grows up. Why Painful Relationship Patterns Repeat My relationship with my ex-girlfriend ran for nearly seven years, on and off, until the night it finally ended for good. There was real damage running in both directions across all of it. I’m not going to pretend I was only the one left standing on porches. Looking back, she had two sides, and I mean that plainly—not as some tidy metaphor. One side showed up warm and easy, picking up exactly where things had left off like no time had passed. The other side was the one that packed a bag and vanished. No calls. And no explanation. Until she decided to become the first version again. I’d already half-forgiven her first disappearance by the time we decided to build a life together. That tells you something about how little it took to reset the pattern before I’d even finished learning from the last round of it. For a long stretch of those years, I let myself be treated worse than I should have allowed. I’ve had to be honest with myself about that part because it would be easy to tell this story as something that only happened to me. Healthy Relationships Two people communicating openly in a healthy relationship. What This Means for Healing One of the hardest parts of breaking painful relationship patterns is recognizing that the pattern often feels familiar before it feels unhealthy. When childhood experiences create beliefs like “people always leave,” those beliefs can quietly shape adult decisions. We may forgive too quickly, ignore warning signs, or mistake emotional inconsistency for love. Healing doesn’t erase the past. It changes the story we tell ourselves about it. The moment I questioned that old sentence—“You’re not somebody people stay for”—I began separating childhood beliefs from present-day reality. That’s where healthier relationships begin. Practical Ways to Break the Pattern If this story feels familiar, consider these small but powerful practices: Notice recurring thoughts that appear after rejection or conflict. Ask whether those thoughts match today’s evidence. Pay attention to repeated relationship cycles instead of isolated incidents. Build friendships that demonstrate consistent care and reliability. Practice self-compassion while taking responsibility for healthier boundaries. Breaking old patterns rarely happens all at once. It happens one honest moment at a time. Continue Your Growth Journey At Success King Marketing Inc, we believe personal growth and lifelong learning create lasting change. Explore resources designed to help you build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop healthier habits. Recommended Resources 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies for growing your online presence and increasing sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI can improve every stage of your customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Practical growth strategies for entrepreneurs and business owners. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for building a stronger financial future. Explore more at skmarketsinc.com/shop. Helpful Tools and Affiliate Resources Discover additional resources available through Success King Marketing Inc: ClickBank digital products and business resources. Amazon recommended tools and everyday essentials. Travel Booking Services for affordable travel planning. Real PPV Traffic solutions to help grow your website traffic. These resources complement our educational content and help readers continue building stronger personal and professional lives. Related Blog Insights Continue reading: Are You Emotionally Reactive? You May Be Stuck in Survival Mode What Is Happiness Without Love? Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment The AI Customer Journey Blueprint 100 Digital Marketing Tips Each article supports your journey toward stronger relationships, greater resilience, and long-term personal growth. FAQ Why do people repeat unhealthy relationship patterns? Many recurring relationship patterns develop from childhood beliefs, attachment experiences, and familiar emotional dynamics that continue into adulthood. Can childhood experiences affect adult relationships? Yes. Early experiences can shape beliefs about trust, self-worth, and emotional safety, influencing how people respond in future relationships. How can I stop repeating painful relationship patterns? Start by recognizing recurring behaviors, questioning automatic negative beliefs, setting healthier boundaries, and seeking supportive relationships that reinforce positive experiences. Final Reflection Sometimes the hardest truth isn’t that someone left. It’s realizing we’ve been carrying an old story about ourselves long after the evidence has changed. Healing begins when we notice that story—and choose to write a different ending. --- ## From Hyper-Independent to Human: Learning How to Accept Help URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/from-hyper-independent-to-human-learning-how-to-accept-help/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-27 Why accepting help is a strength—not a weakness—and how vulnerability can lead to healthier relationships, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Author: BlogInsight Team – Cynthia N Website: Success King Marketing Inc — https://skmarketsinc.com     “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.” — Brené Brown When Strength Becomes Exhaustion It happened on a regular Tuesday night over the smallest thing. I was cooking dinner after a really long, exhausting day at work. I had spent the entire day solving problems for everyone else, and by the time I got home, I had nothing left. I reached into the cupboard to grab a heavy glass jar of pasta sauce. It slipped right out of my fingers. The jar exploded across the kitchen floor. Red sauce splashed across the white cabinets, covered my shoes, and ruined the floor I had just mopped. Most people would probably take a deep breath, grab some paper towels, and clean it up. I couldn’t. Instead, I dropped to the floor, buried my face in my hands, and cried. The tears weren’t really about the pasta sauce. They were about years of carrying invisible weight without letting anyone help. I wasn’t crying because dinner was ruined. I was crying because I was exhausted from always being the strong friend. Broken pasta sauce jar on a kitchen floor representing emotional burnout and vulnerability. The Hidden Cost of Being the Rock For most of my life, I believed I had to do everything alone. I was the planner. The fixer. The listener. The dependable one. When friends went through breakups, I showed up with ice cream. When family arguments exploded, I stepped in to restore peace. People praised me for being independent, capable, and reliable. The world celebrates people who carry everyone else’s burdens without asking for anything in return. But there was a price. The stronger I appeared, the lonelier I became. Because everyone assumed I was fine. I never admitted when I was struggling because I didn’t want to inconvenience anyone. What looked like independence was actually self-protection. I believed that if I never needed anyone, no one could disappoint me. That kitchen floor became the moment that illusion shattered. The Wall I Built Myself The hardest truth wasn’t that people failed to help me. It was realizing I had taught them not to. Every time someone offered assistance, I smiled and said: “I’ve got it.” “Don’t worry.” “I’m fine.” Eventually, people believed me. Meanwhile, I secretly wondered why nobody noticed how overwhelmed I felt. The wall that once felt safe had quietly become a prison. Person sitting alone on a kitchen floor after emotional exhaustion. The Words That Changed Everything A few days later, I met a close friend for coffee. She was sharing something difficult. Out of habit, I immediately started offering solutions. She gently interrupted me. Then she said something I’ll never forget. “You don’t always have to be useful for us to care about you. Sometimes I just want you to listen.” Those words stopped me. You don’t have to be useful to be loved. For years, I had tied my value to what I could do for other people. If I wasn’t solving problems, I feared I’d become unnecessary. Realizing that was uncomfortable. But it opened the door to something healthier. Being human instead of being perfect. Independence Isn’t the Same as Isolation There’s nothing wrong with being independent. Healthy independence means you’re capable of handling life’s challenges. Unhealthy hyper-independence convinces you that asking for help is failure. The difference matters. | Healthy Independence | Hyper-Independence | | — | — | | Accepts support when needed | Rejects support automatically | | Builds mutual relationships | Carries every burden alone | | Values teamwork | Equates help with weakness | | Shares vulnerability | Hides struggles | True strength isn’t avoiding support. It’s knowing when to accept it. Five Small Steps That Made a Big Difference Changing lifelong habits doesn’t happen overnight. These simple practices helped me become more comfortable receiving support. 1. Accept Small Offers When someone offers to carry groceries or make coffee, try saying yes. Small moments retrain your brain to receive kindness. 2. Share Before You’re Overwhelmed Don’t wait until you’re emotionally collapsing. Let trusted people know when you’re having a difficult week. 3. Stop Measuring Your Worth by Productivity Your relationships shouldn’t depend on how useful you are. People who genuinely care about you value your presence. 4. Let Others Contribute Helping is a gift. By refusing help every time, you may unintentionally deny others the opportunity to care for you. 5. Practice Honest Responses Replace automatic phrases like: “I’m fine.” with something more truthful, such as: “It’s been a tough day.” That small shift creates room for genuine connection. Why Vulnerability Builds Stronger Relationships Research on emotional connection consistently shows that trust grows through authenticity, not perfection. When people feel safe sharing their struggles, relationships often become: more supportive more honest less transactional emotionally healthier Vulnerability doesn’t mean oversharing with everyone. It means choosing trusted people and allowing yourself to be fully seen. Ironically, the courage to admit you need help often inspires others to do the same. Two friends sharing an honest conversation over coffee. A New Definition of Strength I still enjoy helping people. That part of me hasn’t disappeared. But I’ve learned something important. Being strong doesn’t require carrying every burden alone. Sometimes strength looks like asking for help. Sometimes strength sounds like: “I could really use your support.” Sometimes strength means allowing someone else to hold you up for a while. The strongest people aren’t the ones who never fall. They’re the ones who trust that they don’t have to stand back up alone. What This Means for Your Personal Growth Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, or pursuing your biggest goals, sustainable success requires support. At Success King Marketing Inc, we believe personal development and business growth go hand in hand. Learning to ask for help isn’t just an emotional skill—it’s a leadership skill. When you embrace vulnerability, you create space for stronger relationships, clearer decisions, and healthier long-term success. Continue Growing with Success King Marketing Inc If you’re committed to building confidence, resilience, and lasting success, explore more resources from our OneStop Digital Hub. Featured eBooks from Our Shop 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies for growing your online presence and increasing sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI can improve every stage of your customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Build a stronger business with practical growth strategies. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for entrepreneurs navigating today’s economy. Visit **https://skmarketsinc.com**  to discover more eBooks, business guides, and personal development resources designed to help you learn today and build tomorrow. Helpful Resources & Affiliate Recommendations Explore additional opportunities through our trusted partners: ClickBank — Digital products for entrepreneurship, health, and personal development. Amazon Recommendations — Business books, productivity tools, and home office essentials. Travel Booking Services — Plan smarter business and leisure travel. Real PPV Traffic — Drive targeted visitors to your website and marketing campaigns. These carefully selected resources complement the educational content available through Success King Marketing Inc. Related Blog Insights Continue your personal and professional growth with these articles from our Blog Insights section: Are You Emotionally Reactive? You May Be Stuck in Survival Mode Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment What Is Happiness Without Love? The AI Customer Journey Blueprint How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships Why Leaders Need Better Perspective, Not More Data Each article is designed to help you build resilience, grow your business, and create lasting success. SEO Image Suggestions For maximum search visibility, use optimized image filenames such as: accepting-help-vulnerability-kitchen-floor.jpg hyper-independent-emotional-burnout.jpg friends-supporting-each-other-coffee.jpg personal-growth-emotional-resilience.jpg Add descriptive alt text containing the focus keyphrase where appropriate to improve accessibility and image SEO. --- ## 3 Ways Your Brain Adapts After Emotional Abuse URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/3-ways-your-brain-adapts-after-emotional-abuse/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-26 (image) “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” ~C.S. Lewis I’m not sure why some of us have a tougher journey than others, but I can say I wouldn’t be who I am today if I hadn’t loved a narcissist. Most days now are filled with love from my three little rescue doggies. But there are days I am teleported back in time. Just the other day, I was standing in my kitchen on a quiet Tuesday afternoon when a familiar smell caught my attention. I had the window … (image) “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” ~C.S. Lewis I’m not sure why some of us have a tougher journey than others, but I can say I wouldn’t be who I am today if I hadn’t loved a narcissist. Most days now are filled with love from my three little rescue doggies. But there are days I am teleported back in time. Just the other day, I was standing in my kitchen on a quiet Tuesday afternoon when a familiar smell caught my attention. I had the window open, and someone passed by wearing patchouli. That was the essential oil my ex-partner wore. Without warning, my breath caught in my throat. My chest tightened, my heart began to race, and tears flooded my eyes. Suddenly, I wasn’t in my kitchen anymore. I was back in a past relationship, engulfed in the familiar, suffocating fog of walking on eggshells. I stood there thinking about the hike he took me on deep in the woods and the great photos I took. And how when we returned home, I was sharing the photos with him instead of preparing dinner, and he suddenly grabbed my phone and smashed it on the table. As I knelt to pick up the shattered pieces, he said, “Chrissy, I don’t know why you make me so angry. But I forgive you. Let’s just go get a pizza tonight.” As I was wiping tears from my cheeks, a wave of familiar shame washed over me. “Why am I crying?” I asked myself, feeling angry and defeated. “I left that toxic situation long ago. I know they weren’t good for me. I should be over this by now.” If you’ve ever found yourself weeping over a song, a scent, or a sudden memory of a past relationship or parent who harmed you, you know the crushing weight of that shame. It makes you feel like you’ve taken ten steps backward—like all your hard work and healing vanished in a single second. As a registered nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner student, I thought I understood how trauma worked. But in that moment, I realized there was a huge gap between what I knew in my head and what I felt in my body. Only by exploring the neuroscience of emotional abuse did I realize the truth: my reaction wasn’t a personal failing. It was an automatic reflex of a nervous system designed to protect me. Your Brain Isn’t Damaged—It’s Protecting You When we think of abuse, we usually imagine physical scars. But psychological and emotional abuse—any repeated behavior meant to control, isolate, or scare you—leaves deep invisible tracks on the human nervous system. When you live through repeated emotional harm, three key areas of your brain adapt to keep you alive: The Alarm System (Amygdala): This tiny part of your brain detects danger and triggers your fight-or-flight response, sending your heart rate soaring. After repeated abuse, your amygdala gets stuck on high alert, mistaking old memories for active threats in the present moment. The Memory Filing Cabinet (Hippocampus): Trauma makes it hard for your brain to file memories neatly by date. Instead of storing a toxic relationship safely in the “past,” memories are saved as raw emotions and bodily sensations. The Logic Center (Prefrontal Cortex): This is the part of your brain that reasons through problems. Under extreme stress, the logic center slows down, making it almost impossible to convince yourself in the moment that a sudden memory isn’t real danger. When that scent wafted into my kitchen, my brain didn’t process it as harmless essential oil. My amygdala recognized a pattern from my past, sounded the alarm, and flooded my body with stress hormones before my logical brain could step in. I wasn’t relapsing. My brain was simply firing an old survival reflex. The Chemical Addiction of Trauma Bonding The hardest part of recovering from emotional abuse is the confusing grief that comes with it. We ask ourselves: “If they treated me so badly, why do I miss them?” The answer lies in how trauma bonds are formed. Relational abuse rarely stays in a constant state of chaos. Instead, it moves through a predictable four-phase cycle: Tension, Escalation, Reconciliation, and Calm. During the reconciliation phase—when the abuser suddenly apologizes, acts sweet, or pretends nothing happened—your brain experiences a sudden surge of dopamine, the brain’s relief and reward chemical. This sudden release of dopamin --- ## Smart Leaders Require Perspective, Not More AI Data URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/leadership-perspective-ai-decision-making/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-26 How Better Decision-Making Beats Information Overload for Business Growth Author: Awung Ngang – Success King Marketing Inc. Blog Insights Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Inspired by the leadership discussion “Why Leaders Need Better Perspective, Not More Data” by John Jantsch (Duct Tape Marketing), featuring insights from leadership expert Cornelia Choe.     The AI Era Has Changed One Thing: Data Is Cheap. Perspective Is Priceless. Artificial intelligence has transformed the way businesses collect information. Today, a small business owner can generate reports, analyze customer behavior, create marketing campaigns, and predict trends in minutes. But having more information doesn’t automatically lead to better decisions. The businesses that thrive aren’t necessarily the ones with the most dashboards—they’re the ones whose leaders can interpret what those dashboards actually mean. That’s where perspective becomes a competitive advantage. Leadership expert Cornelia Choe describes a common leadership challenge called perspective blindness—the tendency to believe we’re seeing the complete picture when we’re actually viewing only a small piece of it. For modern entrepreneurs, agency owners, and business leaders, overcoming that blind spot may be more valuable than collecting another thousand data points.   Alt text: Business leader using AI insights to improve strategic decision-making. What Is Perspective Blindness? Perspective blindness happens when leaders make decisions based on limited viewpoints without realizing important information exists elsewhere. It isn’t usually caused by poor intelligence. Instead, it’s caused by assumptions. A marketing manager sees campaign performance. A finance director sees expenses. A customer support team sees complaints. The CEO sees revenue. Each person has valuable information—but none of them automatically sees the entire story. When these perspectives remain disconnected, businesses create unnecessary friction. A Real Example: The Leadership Gap One striking example comes from a leadership survey discussed by Cornelia Choe. The findings showed: 39% of CIOs believed their organizations were ready for change Only 7% of COOs in those same organizations agreed 39% CIOs said their organization was ready for change 7% COOs agreed in those same organizations That’s not just a disagreement. It’s evidence that different leaders were operating with completely different mental models of the same organization. Imagine making strategic investments when key executives aren’t even looking at the same picture. The good news? Perspective gaps can be identified—and corrected. Leadership team aligning different perspectives during a strategy meeting. Why AI Makes This Even More Important AI excels at finding patterns. It can summarize meetings. It can analyze customer feedback. It can recommend next actions. But AI doesn’t automatically understand organizational context. For example: AI may recommend increasing advertising. Sales may actually need better follow-up systems. Customer support may already know why conversions are dropping. Finance may understand why the proposed solution isn’t sustainable. Without human perspective, AI simply accelerates existing assumptions. The real competitive edge comes from combining AI’s speed with human judgment. The Hidden Cost of Information Overload Many businesses mistake activity for progress. They collect: analytics reports social media metrics website traffic CRM dashboards customer surveys AI-generated insights Yet decisions still stall. Why? Because leaders become overwhelmed by information without creating shared understanding. Better leadership isn’t about adding another dashboard. It’s about asking better questions. Examples include: What are we missing? Who hasn’t shared their perspective? What assumptions are influencing this decision? What would our customers say if they were in this room? Those questions often reveal insights no spreadsheet can produce. The GEM Framework: A Practical Way to Improve Perspective One practical approach discussed by Cornelia Choe is the GEM Framework, which encourages leaders to broaden their viewpoint before making major decisions. While every organization may apply it differently, the core idea is simple: G – Gather Perspectives Before solving a problem, collect viewpoints from multiple departments. Include: employees customers partners frontline staff Often, the people closest to daily operations notice problems long before executives do. E – Examine Assumptions Ask: What are we assuming is true? What evidence challenges our thinking? Could another interpretation exist? This step helps reduce confirmation bias. M – Move with Alignment Once perspectives are shared, decisions become easier. Teams understand: why the decision matters what success looks like how each department contributes Alignment creates momentum. Five Ways Small Business Leaders Can Improve Perspective Today 1. Replace Status Meetings with Learning Meetings Instead of asking, “What happened?” Ask: “What surprised you this week?” Unexpected observations often uncover hidden opportunities. 2. Let Customer Feedback Lead Strategy Your customers frequently identify your next improvement before your analytics do. Review: reviews emails support tickets social comments Look for recurring themes. 3. Use AI as a Thought Partner Treat AI as an assistant—not the final decision-maker. Use it to: summarize ideas compare options generate scenarios Then apply human judgment. 4. Invite Cross-Department Conversations Marketing, sales, operations, and customer service should regularly share observations. Better conversations create better decisions. 5. Build Reflection into Leadership The fastest leaders aren’t always the best leaders. Schedule time to think. Perspective often appears when the noise disappears. Business leader using reflection and AI insights for better decisions. How Perspective Creates Better Marketing Too At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe successful marketing isn’t about producing endless content. It’s about understanding people. Whether you’re: launching an online store, growing affiliate income, selling digital products, building a personal brand, or expanding a small business, your greatest advantage comes from seeing opportunities others overlook. That’s why combining AI tools with strategic thinking creates stronger, more sustainable growth. Technology can generate content. Leaders create direction. Recommended eBooks from Our Shop Continue developing your leadership and business skills with practical digital resources from our marketplace. 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies for growing your online presence and increasing sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI can improve every stage of your customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Build a stronger business with practical growth strategies. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Modern insights for entrepreneurs navigating today’s economy. Shop all eBooks: https://skmarketsinc.com Related Blog Insights Articles Strengthen your business knowledge with more expert resources from Success King Marketing Inc. How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Business Growth Why Marketing Agencies Must Shift From Deliverables to Outcomes The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership Rethinking Workflows in the Age of AI Why Growth Stalls After Early Success Final Thoughts The future belongs to leaders who can connect information with wisdom. AI has made data abundant. That means your competitive advantage no longer comes from collecting more numbers. It comes from developing better perspective. When leaders gather diverse viewpoints, challenge assumptions, and align their teams around shared understanding, they make stronger decisions—and build organizations prepared for lasting growth. In an AI-powered world, perspective isn’t just a leadership skill. It’s a business asset.   --- ## Upskilling Teams for AI: How Businesses Stay Competitive URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/upskilling-your-team-for-whats-next/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-24 Why investing in your people is becoming one of the highest-return business strategies for long-term growth. Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc. – Blog Insights Website URL: https://skmarketsinc.com Inspired by the ideas discussed in “Upskilling Your Team for What’s Next” by John Jantsch of Duct Tape Marketing.   The Future Belongs to Businesses That Never Stop Learning Technology is changing faster than most businesses can hire for it. Artificial intelligence, automation, digital marketing, and new workplace tools are transforming how companies attract customers, manage operations, and grow revenue. The businesses that succeed won’t simply hire more talent—they’ll build stronger talent from within. That’s where upskilling becomes a competitive advantage. Instead of waiting until skills become outdated, forward-thinking companies invest in continuous learning. Whether you’re running a small business, an online store, a consulting firm, or a growing startup, helping your team develop new capabilities today can prepare your business for tomorrow’s opportunities. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe that learning isn’t just personal development—it’s business growth. Why Upskilling Matters More Than Ever The workplace is evolving rapidly, driven by: Artificial intelligence tools Marketing automation Remote collaboration Data-driven decision-making Customer experience personalization Digital commerce Many employees aren’t being replaced by AI—they’re working alongside it. Businesses that teach employees how to use these technologies effectively often gain: Higher productivity Better customer service Faster innovation Increased employee retention Greater adaptability during change The cost of learning is often much lower than the cost of constantly replacing talent. What Skills Should Businesses Prioritize? Not every company needs data scientists or software engineers. Instead, focus on practical skills that create immediate business value. 1. AI Literacy Employees should understand how to use AI responsibly for: Content creation Customer support Research Brainstorming Workflow automation The goal isn’t replacing human thinking—it’s accelerating it. 2. Digital Marketing Skills Marketing continues to evolve rapidly. Your team should understand: SEO fundamentals Social media marketing Email campaigns Content marketing Customer journey optimization Analytics Even non-marketing employees benefit from understanding how customers discover your business online. 3. Communication As businesses become more digital, communication becomes even more valuable. Develop skills like: Clear writing Virtual presentations Customer conversations Cross-team collaboration Active listening These human skills become more valuable as automation increases. 4. Problem-Solving The best employees don’t simply follow processes—they improve them. Encourage: Critical thinking Process improvement Experimentation Data-informed decisions Organizations that reward learning often create stronger innovation cultures. Create a Learning Culture Instead of One-Time Training One training session rarely transforms a business. Instead, build learning into everyday work. Practical ideas include: Weekly knowledge-sharing meetings Monthly AI workshops Short online courses Book discussions Internal mentoring Skill challenges Small, consistent improvements compound over time. AI Isn’t the Enemy—Stagnation Is Many business owners worry about AI replacing jobs. A more useful question is: “How can AI help our people perform better?” When employees learn to use AI effectively, they often spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time on creative, strategic, and customer-focused work. Examples include: | Task | Traditional | With AI | | — | — | — | | Blog outlines | 45 min | 10 min | | Email drafts | 30 min | 5 min | | Research | Hours | Minutes | | Customer FAQ creation | Manual | Assisted | The biggest advantage comes from combining human judgment with AI efficiency. Make Learning Personal Not every employee wants the same career path. Create individualized development opportunities by asking: What skills do you want to learn? What challenges slow you down? What tools would make your work easier? What career goals do you have? When employees help shape their own learning, engagement often increases. Affordable Ways Small Businesses Can Upskill You don’t need a massive training budget. Many effective resources are inexpensive—or even free. Consider: AI learning sessions YouTube tutorials Industry webinars Internal workshops Digital eBooks Practical implementation projects Learning by doing often creates stronger results than passive training alone. Measure What Matters Track whether learning creates business improvements. Useful metrics include: Productivity gains Customer satisfaction Revenue growth Marketing performance Employee retention Process improvements The objective isn’t completing courses. It’s creating measurable business outcomes. The Businesses That Keep Learning Keep Growing The future workplace will continue evolving. New technologies will emerge. Customer expectations will change. Markets will shift. Businesses that build continuous learning into their culture become better prepared for whatever comes next. At Success King Marketing Inc., we encourage entrepreneurs and business owners to invest in both technology and people. The combination of AI tools, digital marketing knowledge, and continuous learning creates a stronger foundation for long-term success. Recommended Resources from Success King Marketing Inc. 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable strategies to grow your online presence and increase sales. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI improves every stage of the customer experience. Success in Business Online Course Build stronger business systems for sustainable growth. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Practical insights for entrepreneurs and investors. Browse more digital products at **https://skmarketsinc.com** Suggested Internal Links Blog Insights Shop eBooks 100 Digital Marketing Tips The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Success in Business Online Course Business and Investment Tips 2026 Related Blog Insights Articles Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill for Consultants Rethinking Workflows in the Age of AI What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Marketing Why Growth Stalls After Early Success The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership Schema Markup Recommendation Use Article Schema with: Author: Awung Ngang Publisher: Success King Marketing Inc. Article Type: BlogPosting Focus Keyword: Upskilling Your Team Featured Image: 1200×675 Canonical URL: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/upskilling-your-team-for-whats-next/ Image Placeholders to Replace Later | Section | Suggested Image | | — | — | | Featured | Team learning AI skills | | AI Literacy | Employee using AI assistant | | Digital Marketing | Analytics dashboard | | Learning Culture | Office workshop | | Personal Learning | Online course on laptop | | Conclusion | Team celebrating success | Original Reference This article was inspired by the concepts discussed in “Upskilling Your Team for What’s Next” by John Jantsch of Duct Tape Marketing, based on his podcast conversation featuring Rob Levin, chairman and co-founder of Work Better Now and author of The New Talent Playbook. This version has been substantially rewritten and adapted for the audience of Success King Marketing Inc. with original structure, expanded practical guidance, and SEO-focused enhancements. --- ## The Hidden Tax Savings in Your Business: Why Proactive Tax Planning Matters URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/hidden-tax-savings-business/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-24 Stop Overpaying Taxes and Learn How Smarter Planning Can Protect Your Business Profits Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc. – Blog Insights Website URL: https://skmarketsinc.com Inspired by: “The Hidden Tax Savings in Your Business” by John Jantsch (Duct Tape Marketing Podcast featuring Peter Holtz, CPA). Business owner reviewing financial documents with a calculator and laptop.   Why Many Businesses Pay More Tax Than Necessary Most entrepreneurs work hard to increase revenue, attract customers, and grow their businesses. Yet many overlook one area that can have an immediate impact on profitability: proactive tax planning. The difference between preparing taxes and planning taxes is significant. Tax preparation focuses on reporting what already happened. Tax planning focuses on making informed financial decisions throughout the year that may legally reduce your tax burden while supporting long-term business growth. This distinction can make a meaningful difference for freelancers, online entrepreneurs, e-commerce businesses, affiliate marketers, and small business owners alike. Tax Preparation vs. Tax Planning Many business owners meet with their accountant only when tax season arrives. By then, many opportunities have already passed. | Tax Preparation | Tax Planning | | — | — | | Looks backward | Looks forward | | Files required tax returns | Creates strategies throughout the year | | Ensures compliance | Helps optimize legal tax outcomes | | Happens once a year | Happens year-round | Planning ahead allows businesses to make decisions before deadlines pass, giving them more flexibility. Where Hidden Tax Savings Often Exist Every business is different, but there are several areas where businesses frequently uncover legitimate savings. 1. Business Expenses Many everyday operating expenses may qualify as deductible business costs when properly documented. Examples include: Office supplies Business software subscriptions Marketing expenses Website hosting Professional education Business travel Equipment purchases Good recordkeeping makes these expenses easier to identify and document. Organized business receipts and accounting software dashboard. 2. Marketing Investments Marketing isn’t just about generating sales—it is also a necessary business expense for many companies. Common deductible marketing investments may include: Website development SEO services Social media advertising Email marketing platforms Content creation Branding materials For businesses focused on digital growth, these investments can serve both growth and operational purposes. 3. Equipment Purchases Timing equipment purchases strategically may affect how those purchases are treated for tax purposes. Examples include: Laptops Cameras Office furniture Business phones Printers Specialized equipment The applicable treatment depends on local tax rules, business structure, and timing, making professional guidance valuable. Entrepreneur investing in business equipment. Why Cash Flow Matters More Than Tax Season Many business owners focus on reducing taxes once a year. Successful businesses often focus on something even more important: cash flow management. Cash flow determines whether a business can: Hire employees Invest in marketing Purchase inventory Launch new products Handle unexpected expenses Smart tax planning should support healthier cash flow rather than becoming a last-minute scramble. The Value of Financial Forecasting Growing businesses benefit from looking ahead instead of reacting afterward. Financial forecasting helps answer questions like: What will profits likely look like next quarter? How much should be set aside for taxes? Can the business afford a new hire? Is now the right time to invest? Forecasting doesn’t require perfect predictions—it requires informed planning. Why Digital Entrepreneurs Should Pay Attention Online businesses often have unique financial situations. Affiliate marketers, content creators, digital product sellers, and e-commerce businesses may have: Multiple income sources International customers Software subscriptions Advertising costs Payment processor fees Digital product expenses These businesses benefit from organized bookkeeping throughout the year. For example, entrepreneurs selling digital products through Success King Marketing Inc. can benefit from maintaining clear records of business-related expenses, software tools, marketing campaigns, and educational investments. Build Better Financial Habits Small improvements made consistently often produce meaningful long-term results. Consider adopting habits such as: Reviewing finances monthly Separating personal and business expenses Tracking receipts digitally Monitoring cash flow Planning major purchases ahead of time Consulting qualified tax professionals before making significant financial decisions These habits create stronger financial visibility and reduce surprises later. Entrepreneur planning finances for the upcoming quarter. Education Is an Investment One of the best ways to strengthen your business is by improving your knowledge. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe entrepreneurs grow faster when they continue learning. Explore practical resources from our OneStop Digital Hub, including business, marketing, and personal development eBooks designed to help entrepreneurs build stronger businesses. Featured Business eBooks from Our Shop 100 Digital Marketing Tips Practical strategies for growing your online presence. Success in Business Online Course Build stronger business foundations. Business and Investment Tips 2026 Smarter business and financial strategies. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Improve customer experience with AI. Visit: **https://skmarketsinc.com** Key Takeaways Tax planning is different from tax preparation. Year-round planning can help identify legitimate savings opportunities. Organized bookkeeping supports better financial decisions. Marketing, software, and business investments may deserve closer review. Healthy cash flow should remain a priority alongside tax efficiency. Continuous education helps entrepreneurs make more informed business decisions. Final Thoughts The most successful entrepreneurs don’t simply earn more—they learn how to manage their businesses more effectively. Proactive tax planning is not about finding shortcuts. It’s about making informed decisions throughout the year that align with your business goals while remaining compliant with applicable tax laws. Combined with better bookkeeping, smarter forecasting, and ongoing business education, thoughtful planning can help create a stronger financial foundation for long-term success. Links Suggestions (Success King Marketing Inc.) The AI Customer Journey Blueprint 100 Digital Marketing Tips Business and Investment Tips 2026 Success in Business Online Course Blog Insights OneStop Digital Hub Shop Related Blog Ideas How Small Businesses Can Improve Cash Flow Marketing Investments That Help Businesses Grow Why Every Entrepreneur Needs Better Financial Habits The Role of AI in Modern Business Operations Building a More Profitable Online Business Suggested WordPress Image Alt Text | Image | Alt Text | | — | — | | Featured | Business owner reviewing tax documents and financial reports | | Expenses | Small business expense tracking and bookkeeping | | Equipment | Entrepreneur investing in business equipment | | Planning | Financial planning for small business growth | Schema Markup (JSON-LD) Add this to your WordPress SEO plugin or custom header. JSON { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "The Hidden Tax Savings in Your Business: Why Proactive Tax Planning Matters", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Awung Ngang" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Success King Marketing Inc.", "url": "https://skmarketsinc.com" }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/hidden-tax-savings-business" }, "description": "Learn how proactive tax planning can help entrepreneurs improve cash flow, identify legitimate savings opportunities, and build a stronger business.", "keywords": [ "hidden tax savings", "small business taxes", "tax planning", "entrepreneur finances", "business growth" ] } Proper Attribution This article is an original repurposed interpretation inspired by the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast. Inspired by: “The Hidden Tax Savings in Your Business” by John Jantsch, featuring Peter Holtz, CPA, originally published by Duct Tape Marketing. Readers can explore the original podcast and related content through Duct Tape Marketing for additional context and insights. --- ## Refund and Return Policy | Success King Marketing Inc. URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/refund-return-policy/ Type: page Modified: 2026-09-24 Success King Marketing Inc. – OneStop Digital Hub Effective Date: September 23, 2026 Overview Thank you for purchasing digital products from Success King Marketing Inc., operating as OneStop Digital Hub. This Refund and Return Policy explains when refunds may be requested for our eBooks, guides, templates, courses in eBook format, and other digital products and downloadable content. By completing a purchase, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this policy. Scope of This Policy This policy applies to all digital products sold through Success King Marketing Inc. and OneStop Digital Hub. No Physical Returns All products are delivered digitally. Because no physical products are shipped, there are no physical items to return. Refund Eligibility Refunds are considered only in the following circumstances: 1. Duplicate Purchase A refund may be considered when a customer accidentally purchases the same digital product more than once. 2. Technical Access Problems A refund may be considered when you are unable to access or download your purchased digital product because of a technical issue that we cannot reasonably resolve within 72 hours after you notify us. 3. Material Product Defect A refund may be considered when a purchased file is materially defective or corrupted and cannot be used, and we are unable to provide a working replacement within a reasonable period. 4. Fraud or Unauthorized Purchase Refunds may be considered in cases involving proven fraud or an unauthorized transaction. Refunds That Are Not Eligible Refunds will generally not be provided for the following: Change of mind or buyer’s remorse. Dissatisfaction with content that was accurately described on the product or sales page. Partial use, access, or download of a digital product. Refund requests submitted more than 14 days after the purchase, except where applicable technical access issues were documented and reported within the required timeframe. How to Request a Refund To request a refund, contact our support team at: Email: info@skmarketsinc.com You may also use the contact method provided during checkout. Please include: Your full name. Your order number or transaction ID. The email address used for the purchase. A brief description of the problem. Any supporting information, such as screenshots, error messages, or download-related details. Please report technical access problems as soon as possible. For the fastest resolution, technical issues should be reported within 72 hours of discovery. Other eligible refund requests should be submitted within 14 days of purchase. Refund Review Process We aim to acknowledge refund requests within 48 business hours. During the review process, we may request additional information to verify the purchase or investigate the reported problem. Where possible, we will first attempt to: Resolve technical access problems. Correct or replace defective files. Provide an appropriate digital replacement. When an eligible issue cannot be resolved within a reasonable period, a refund may be issued. Refund Method and Processing Time Approved refunds will normally be sent to the original payment method used for the purchase. When the original payment method is unavailable, we may arrange an alternative refund method where appropriate. Refund processing times depend on the payment processor, card issuer, or bank. Refunds typically take 5–14 business days to appear, although processing times may vary. Success King Marketing Inc. is not responsible for delays caused by banks, payment processors, or other third-party financial institutions. Partial Refunds and Digital Exchanges In limited circumstances, we may offer: A partial refund, such as when one part of a bundled purchase is defective. A digital replacement product of equal or lesser value. Digital exchanges are offered at our discretion and apply only where an appropriate replacement is available. Revocation of Access After a Refund When a refund is approved, Success King Marketing Inc. reserves the right to revoke access to the refunded digital product, including related downloads, bonuses, memberships, or other digital resources associated with the refunded purchase. Fraud and Refund Abuse Attempts to obtain refunds through fraudulent, misleading, or abusive means may result in: Denial of the refund request. Termination of access to the affected digital products or services. Further action where appropriate and permitted by law. Chargebacks If you experience a problem with your purchase, we encourage you to contact us before initiating a chargeback with your payment provider. We will make reasonable efforts to investigate and resolve legitimate purchase or access issues directly. We reserve the right to respond to and contest unjustified chargebacks by providing relevant transaction and purchase information to the payment processor. Consumer Rights Nothing in this Refund and Return Policy is intended to limit or exclude any mandatory consumer rights or legal protections that apply to you under applicable law. Where applicable law provides rights that differ from this policy, those legal rights will continue to apply. Contact and Support For refund requests, technical support, or questions about this policy, please contact: Success King Marketing Inc.OneStop Digital Hub Email: info@skmarketsinc.comAlternative Email: awungn.skminc@gmail.com Please include your purchase details whenever possible so that we can locate your order and respond efficiently. Changes to This Policy We may update this Refund and Return Policy from time to time. The version of the policy posted on our website at the time of purchase will generally apply to that transaction, subject to any mandatory legal requirements. Any policy updates will be published on this page. Need Help? For questions about refunds, returns, digital downloads, or technical access, contact us at info@skmarketsinc.com or awungn.skminc@gmail.com. We will review your request and work to resolve eligible issues as efficiently as possible. --- ## AI Levels Marketing: Small Businesses Compete with Big Brands URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ai-powered-neuromarketing-small-business/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-23 AI-powered neuromarketing is giving entrepreneurs affordable access to customer psychology, smarter content creation, and better marketing decisions. Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc. Category: Marketing Insights AI-powered neuromarketing helping small businesses compete with larger brands. AI Is Giving Small Businesses an Advantage They Never Had Before For years, the most sophisticated marketing techniques belonged to companies with massive budgets. Large corporations invested in behavioral research, eye-tracking studies, customer psychology experts, and expensive consulting teams to understand why people buy. Most small businesses simply couldn’t afford those resources. Today, that gap is shrinking. Artificial intelligence has transformed advanced marketing capabilities into affordable tools that entrepreneurs, consultants, and local businesses can use daily. Whether you’re creating content, improving customer experiences, or making smarter marketing decisions, AI is helping businesses compete on a much more level playing field. The question is no longer “Can small businesses use advanced marketing?” The question is “How quickly can they use it effectively?” What Is AI-Powered Neuromarketing? Neuromarketing combines psychology, behavioral science, and consumer decision-making to understand what motivates people to take action. Instead of guessing what customers want, businesses can use behavioral insights to reduce friction, improve messaging, and create experiences that feel more natural. AI makes many of these insights easier to access by helping businesses: Analyze customer language Improve marketing copy Test different messaging Predict customer objections Generate personalized content Refine calls-to-action What once required expensive research teams can now begin with accessible AI tools. Why This Matters for Small Businesses Customers make buying decisions faster than ever. Before contacting your business, they often research online, compare competitors, and evaluate your credibility. AI allows small businesses to respond with greater speed and consistency. Instead of relying on guesswork, you can: Write clearer website copy Improve email campaigns Create stronger social media content Personalize customer communication Build trust more effectively The businesses that learn to combine AI with human expertise will have a significant competitive advantage. Build Your Own “Million-Dollar Marketing Team” One of the most exciting developments in AI is the ability to use multiple AI assistants as specialized advisors. Instead of hiring several expensive consultants immediately, business owners can use AI tools to help explore different perspectives. For example, you might use AI to simulate conversations around: Customer psychology Website improvements Content strategy Sales messaging Brand positioning Each AI model often approaches problems differently, making it valuable to compare responses before making decisions. Practical Tip Don’t rely on one AI tool for every task. Try the same prompt across different platforms when working on important marketing decisions. Different models often produce different strengths. Why Context Makes AI More Powerful One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is asking AI vague questions. Generic prompts produce generic results. Instead, give AI meaningful context. Better Context Includes: Your industry Target audience Business goals Competitors Brand voice Customer challenges For example: Instead of asking: “Write an email.” Try: “Write a friendly follow-up email for a digital marketing agency serving small business owners who need more local leads.” The difference in quality can be dramatic. AI Can Help You Write with More Empathy One surprising discovery from recent AI research is that some AI models perform remarkably well at recognizing emotional context in written communication. That doesn’t mean AI replaces human relationships. It means AI can become a helpful editing partner. Use AI to review messages like: Customer support responses Difficult client emails Welcome messages Sales follow-ups Always add your own judgment and personality before sending. Empathy builds trust when it’s genuine. Reduce Friction Throughout the Customer Journey One principle from behavioral science remains timeless: People are more likely to act when the next step feels easy. Look at your website through your customer’s eyes. Ask yourself: Can visitors quickly understand what you offer? Is your pricing clear? Is your call-to-action obvious? Are forms simple to complete? Is it easy to contact you? Even small improvements can increase conversions. Quick Wins Shorten long forms. Simplify navigation. Use clearer headlines. Add customer testimonials near calls-to-action. Remove unnecessary steps before checkout. The goal isn’t to pressure customers. The goal is to make saying “yes” easier. AI Doesn’t Replace Creativity—It Amplifies It Many business owners worry that AI will make marketing feel robotic. The opposite is true when used correctly. Use AI to handle repetitive tasks so you can focus on what customers actually remember: Your stories Your expertise Your personality Your relationships Your unique perspective Technology should support your voice—not replace it. Practical Ways to Start Using AI Today If you’re just beginning, focus on small improvements instead of trying everything at once. This Week Improve one landing page. Rewrite one email. Generate five social media ideas. Analyze one customer review. Create one FAQ section. This Month Audit your website copy. Build an AI-assisted content calendar. Test different calls-to-action. Create customer journey improvements. Consistency beats complexity. How Success King Marketing Inc. Helps Businesses Grow with AI At Success King Marketing Inc., we help businesses combine AI with proven marketing strategies that deliver sustainable growth. Our services help you: Improve SEO for both Google and AI-powered search. Create high-converting content. Strengthen brand messaging. Build customer trust. Optimize websites for more leads. Develop practical AI marketing workflows. The future belongs to businesses that use AI strategically while keeping human relationships at the center. Key Takeaways AI has made advanced marketing more accessible than ever. Small businesses no longer need enterprise-sized budgets to benefit from customer psychology, smarter messaging, and personalized communication. The businesses that succeed will: Give AI better context. Test multiple AI tools. Build authentic customer experiences. Reduce friction across their websites. Combine behavioral science with real human expertise. Technology levels the playing field. Your strategy determines whether you win. Frequently Asked Questions What is AI-powered neuromarketing? AI-powered neuromarketing combines artificial intelligence with behavioral science to help businesses better understand customer decision-making and improve marketing performance. Can small businesses benefit from neuromarketing? Yes. Many AI tools now provide affordable ways for small businesses to improve messaging, customer experiences, and conversion rates without large research budgets. Which AI tools work best for marketing? Popular options include ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and other AI assistants. Testing multiple tools often produces better results for different marketing tasks. Does AI replace human marketers? No. AI works best as a productivity and strategy assistant. Human creativity, empathy, and expertise remain essential for building trust and lasting customer relationships. Recommended eBooks from Our Shop Encourage readers to continue learning with valuable digital resources. AI Marketing Blueprint Learn practical AI strategies for content creation, automation, and business growth. View in Shop SEO Growth Guide Discover how to improve your rankings, increase organic traffic, and attract more qualified leads. View in Shop Social Media Success Playbook Create engaging content that builds your audience and drives conversions. View in Shop Shop all eBooks: Success King Marketing Inc. Shop   --- ## How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-ai-is-changing-trust-content-and-customer-relationships/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-20 Why Human Connection Is Becoming the Biggest Competitive Advantage in the AI Era Author: Awung Ngang Published by: Success King Marketing Inc. – Blog Insights Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Inspired by: “How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships” by John Jantsch, featuring insights from Heidi Ellsworth, originally published by Duct Tape Marketing.   6 Quick SEO Details | Element | Optimized Content | | — | — | | Focus Keyphrase | AI trust and customer relationships | | SEO Title | How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships (2026 Guide) | | Slug | ai-trust-content-customer-relationships | | Meta Description | Discover how AI is transforming trust, content marketing, and customer relationships. Learn practical strategies small businesses can use to build credibility while leveraging AI. | AI Can Produce Content—But Trust Still Wins Artificial Intelligence has transformed how businesses create content, automate customer support, and personalize marketing campaigns. Tasks that once took hours can now be completed in minutes. But there’s one thing AI hasn’t replaced: trust. Customers may enjoy faster responses and personalized recommendations, yet their buying decisions still depend on confidence in the people and businesses behind the technology. The companies thriving in 2026 aren’t simply producing more content—they’re creating stronger relationships. The New Currency of Business Is Trust Trust has always mattered, but AI has changed how customers evaluate it. People now encounter: AI-generated articles Automated emails Chatbots Synthetic voices AI-created videos Personalized recommendations While these tools improve efficiency, they also make authenticity more valuable. Customers increasingly ask themselves: Who is behind this business? Can I rely on them? Will they stand behind their promises? Technology may start the conversation, but trust closes the sale. Why Experience Matters More Than Ever One of the biggest lessons from roofing industry leader Heidi Ellsworth is that experience creates credibility. Whether you’re a contractor, consultant, affiliate marketer, or online entrepreneur, customers want evidence that you’ve solved real problems. Instead of only saying you’re an expert, demonstrate it through: Case studies Customer testimonials Educational content Behind-the-scenes insights Real-world examples These signals become even more powerful when AI-generated content floods the internet. 5 AI Should Support Your Voice—Not Replace It Many businesses make the mistake of allowing AI to become their entire marketing strategy. The strongest brands use AI differently. They let AI handle repetitive work while preserving their unique perspective. Use AI for: Drafting blog posts Email outlines Social media ideas Content research Workflow automation Keep human control over: Brand voice Personal stories Customer conversations Decision-making Strategic thinking AI accelerates production. Humans create connection. Customer Relationships Are Becoming More Personal Ironically, automation has made personal interactions even more valuable. When customers finally speak with a real person, they expect: empathy expertise honesty consistency Businesses that combine automation with genuine human service often outperform those relying solely on technology. Think of AI as your assistant—not your replacement. 5 Content Is Becoming Easier—Authority Is Becoming Harder Creating content has never been easier. Standing out has never been harder. Millions of AI-generated articles appear online every day. The businesses that rise above the noise focus on: Original insights Share lessons from your own experience. Practical education Teach customers something they can apply immediately. Consistency Publishing valuable content regularly builds familiarity and trust. Transparency Be open about your methods, pricing, and recommendations. Authority grows when people repeatedly find your content helpful. The Customer Journey Is Changing AI is reshaping every stage of the buying process. Here’s how businesses can adapt at every stage. Discovery Use AI-assisted SEO and educational content to help customers find your business. Research Provide honest comparisons, FAQs, and helpful guides. Evaluation Show testimonials, reviews, certifications, and real results. Purchase Make buying simple with clear communication and reliable support. Loyalty Continue educating customers after the sale through email, blogs, and exclusive resources. Long-term relationships often generate more revenue than one-time transactions. Practical Lessons for Small Businesses If you’re running a small business or affiliate marketplace like Success King Marketing Inc., these strategies can help. Build trust with educational content Publish articles that solve real problems instead of chasing clicks. Show the people behind your brand Customers connect with faces more than logos. Use AI responsibly Speed up content creation without sacrificing originality. Keep your promises Fast responses matter, but reliable delivery matters even more. Create repeat value Offer newsletters, guides, eBooks, and helpful updates that keep customers engaged. How Success King Marketing Inc. Applies These Principles At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe AI should empower entrepreneurs—not replace their creativity. Our mission is to help people learn valuable skills through: Digital marketing eBooks Business growth guides Affiliate marketing resources Online income strategies Practical educational content Every piece of content we publish aims to combine modern AI-powered efficiency with genuine human insight. Learn today. Build tomorrow. 5 Explore More Resources Visit Success King Marketing Inc. to discover: Digital Marketing eBooks Business & Investment Guides Affiliate Marketing Resources Self-Improvement Books Productivity and AI Learning Content Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Recommended Links (Success King Marketing Inc.) /shop/ | Shop Digital eBooks | | /blog/ | Blog Insights | | AI Customer Journey Blueprint | AI Customer Journey Blueprint | | 100 Digital Marketing Tips | 100 Digital Marketing Tips | | Business & Investment Tips | Business and Investment Guides | | Affiliate Marketing Guides | Make Money Online Resources | Related Blog Posts Continue building topical authority with related articles like: Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill for Consultants The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership Rethinking Workflows in the Age of AI What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Marketing Suggested Featured Image (1200 × 675) Trust in the AI Era AI Supporting Human Creativity Customer Relationships Still Matter Building Authority Through Educational Content Schema Markup JSON { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "headline": "How AI Is Changing Trust, Content, and Customer Relationships", "alternativeHeadline": "Why Human Connection Is Becoming the Biggest Competitive Advantage in the AI Era", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Awung Ngang" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Success King Marketing Inc.", "url": "https://skmarketsinc.com" }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/ai-trust-content-customer-relationships" }, "keywords": [ "AI trust", "customer relationships", "AI content marketing", "small business marketing", "digital marketing" ], "description": "Learn how AI is changing trust, content, and customer relationships while discovering practical strategies that help small businesses build credibility and long-term growth." }   --- ## Why Top Marketing Agencies Win with Strategy Over Deliverables URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/marketing-agency-strategy-ai-era/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-18 Why businesses now pay more for insight than execution in the AI era Author: Awung Ngang – Success King Marketing Inc. INSIGHTS Team Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Original Inspiration: Why Marketing Agencies Must Shift From Deliverables to Strategy by John Jantsch, featuring insights from Brian Gerstner (Agency Core) at Duct Tape Marketing. Why Strategy Is Becoming Every Agency’s Biggest Asset Artificial intelligence has dramatically changed how marketing work gets done. Tasks that once required hours of manual effort—content creation, reporting, design drafts, and workflow automation—can now be completed in minutes. That shift has created an important question for agencies and consultants: If AI can produce the deliverables, what are clients really paying for? Increasingly, they’re paying for strategy, judgment, leadership, and business direction. Recent industry research discussed by Brian Gerstner of Agency Core suggests an interesting pattern. Most agency clients still believe their agencies help them succeed, yet many also expect to reduce their agency spending within the next year. At first glance, that sounds contradictory. It isn’t. Clients aren’t abandoning marketing—they’re becoming more selective about what they’re willing to pay premium prices for. For agencies like Success King Marketing Inc., this shift creates an opportunity to become trusted advisors instead of simply service providers. The New Marketing Economy Not long ago, agencies competed by producing more: More blog posts More social media content More reports More website updates More graphic designs Today, AI tools can generate much of that production work. The competitive advantage has moved elsewhere. Clients now ask questions like: Should we launch this campaign? Which audience should we target first? How should AI fit into our business? What should we stop doing? Those questions require experience—not automation. Deliverables Are Becoming Commodities A commodity is something buyers see as interchangeable. Think about basic tasks such as: Standard reports Generic blog articles Simple brochures Routine social media captions When multiple AI tools can produce similar outputs, price becomes the deciding factor. That creates downward pressure on agencies charging primarily for execution. The solution isn’t avoiding AI. The solution is using AI while selling the thinking behind it. Strategy Creates Pricing Power Businesses rarely pay premium prices for documents. They pay premium prices for outcomes. Consider the difference. | Deliverable Agency | Strategic Agency | | — | — | | Creates a website | Designs a customer acquisition system | | Writes blog posts | Builds an SEO growth strategy | | Runs Facebook ads | Develops a revenue-focused marketing roadmap | | Sends reports | Explains what decisions to make next | | Executes tasks | Guides business growth | The second agency becomes significantly harder to replace. Niching Doesn’t Mean Limiting Yourself One of the most valuable lessons from Agency Core’s research is that niching isn’t only about choosing an industry. Many business owners assume they must specialize exclusively in: Real estate Healthcare Law firms Restaurants But specialization can take several forms. You can become known for: serving small businesses, helping startups, solving AI adoption challenges, building marketing systems, or serving a specific geographic region. The goal isn’t shrinking your market. It’s becoming easier to remember. When people immediately understand what makes your agency different, pricing conversations become easier. AI Should Be Invisible Many businesses rushed to advertise “AI services.” That window is already closing. Clients increasingly expect agencies to use AI naturally. They don’t necessarily want to buy AI. They want better results. Instead of saying: “We use AI.” Say: “We reduce campaign production time while improving decision quality.” That’s the outcome clients actually value. Why Many Agencies Struggle to Execute Industry research also highlights another challenge. Many agency owners know their priorities. Far fewer consistently execute them. Common obstacles include: constantly switching priorities, chasing new trends, reacting instead of planning, and staying trapped in production work. Ironically, agency owners often become overwhelmed delivering marketing instead of marketing their own businesses. Creating repeatable systems can help break that cycle. What This Means for Success King Marketing Inc. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe the future belongs to businesses that combine human expertise with AI-powered efficiency. Rather than simply producing content, businesses should focus on building complete marketing systems that include: SEO-driven content strategies Affiliate marketing funnels Digital product ecosystems Email marketing automation Customer journey optimization AI-assisted business workflows This approach creates long-term assets instead of one-time deliverables. Practical Steps Agencies Can Take Today Instead of reinventing your entire business overnight, make gradual strategic shifts. 1. Sell Outcomes First Start proposals with business objectives before listing services. 2. Build Authority Content Publish articles that demonstrate expertise instead of simply showcasing completed projects. 3. Create Proprietary Frameworks Develop branded processes clients can associate with your agency. 4. Use AI Behind the Scenes Increase efficiency without making AI your only selling point. 5. Schedule Strategy Sessions Become the person clients consult before making marketing decisions—not after. Strategy Is Becoming the Product The agencies thriving in 2026 aren’t necessarily producing more work. They’re producing more clarity. Businesses still need websites, content, advertising, and SEO. But they increasingly want someone who can answer the bigger questions. What should we prioritize? What’s worth investing in? How do we grow sustainably? Those answers create lasting value. As AI continues transforming marketing, execution becomes faster—but strategic thinking becomes even more valuable. The agencies that combine technology with trusted guidance won’t simply survive the AI era. They’ll lead it. Recommended Resources from Success King Marketing Inc. 100 Digital Marketing Tips Actionable marketing ideas to improve visibility, traffic, and conversions. The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Learn how AI can improve every stage of your customer experience. Business & Investment Tips 2026 Practical strategies for entrepreneurs building long-term success. Affiliate Marketing Guides Build scalable online income with proven affiliate marketing strategies. Visit: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop Internal Links Blog Insights Homepage 100 Digital Marketing Tips The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Business and Investment Tips 2026 Affiliate Marketing Resources Make Money Online Guides SEO Marketing Articles AI Business Strategy Articles Related Blog Posts Continue readers’ journey with related content from your site: AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill for Consultants Rethinking Workflows in the Age of AI Why Growth Stalls After Early Success What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Marketing   Why Smart Marketing Agencies Are Winning with Strategy, Not Just Deliverables marketing agency strategy, AI marketing, business consulting, digital marketing, agency growth, pricing strategy, customer journey --- ## Shop URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/shop/ Type: page Modified: 2026-09-13 --- ## AI Is Changing How Customers Choose Your Business In 2026 URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ai-is-changing-how-customers-choose-your-business/ Type: post Modified: 2026-09-09 The New Rules for Winning Trust in 2026 With AI Why AI Search, Customer Trust, and Digital Authority Are Becoming Your Biggest Competitive Advantage Author: Awung Ngang Adapted from insights inspired by the original work of John Jantsch (Duct Tape Marketing). Website: Success King Marketing Inc.     Introduction The way customers discover businesses has changed dramatically. Not long ago, buyers opened Google, typed a keyword, and clicked through several websites before making a decision. Today, many people ask ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini before visiting a company’s website. Instead of browsing ten search results, they receive a short list of recommended businesses complete with summaries, reviews, comparisons, and buying advice. If your business isn’t part of those AI-generated recommendations, you may lose customers before they ever know you exist. According to discussions from Duct Tape Marketing, AI has become part of nearly every stage of the buyer’s journey, changing how people discover, evaluate, trust, and ultimately choose businesses. Duct Tape Marketing+1 For entrepreneurs, marketers, and small businesses, this represents both a challenge and an enormous opportunity. Why the Customer Journey Has Changed Traditional marketing followed a fairly predictable path. Today’s journey looks very different. Before contacting your business, customers may: Ask ChatGPT for recommendations. Compare reviews instantly. Request feature comparisons. Ask AI to summarize your reputation. Research competitors simultaneously. This means buyers often arrive already informed—or already convinced to choose someone else. Duct Tape Marketing+1 The Modern Marketing Hourglass One of John Jantsch’s most influential frameworks is the Marketing Hourglass, which extends beyond the initial purchase. The seven stages include: Know Like Trust Try Buy Repeat Refer AI now influences every one of these stages. Duct Tape Marketing+1 Instead of thinking only about attracting visitors, businesses must design experiences that help AI accurately understand and recommend them. The Three Tests Every Business Must Pass Modern digital visibility requires passing three essential tests. 1. Findable People must be able to discover you across multiple channels. That includes: Google Search Bing Social Search ChatGPT Perplexity Google AI Overviews Businesses relying solely on traditional SEO risk missing customers who begin their research with AI assistants. Episode 3+1 Image Placeholder 2. Credible Once customers find you, they immediately evaluate credibility. Ask yourself: Is your homepage clear? Do your reviews look authentic? Does your content answer real questions? Does your brand communicate expertise? AI increasingly favors businesses with strong topical authority instead of websites filled with generic content. The Wall Street Journal+1 3. Retrievable This is the newest challenge. AI must understand enough about your business to confidently recommend it. That requires: Structured website content Clear service pages Frequently Asked Questions Consistent business information Third-party citations Without these signals, AI may overlook your business entirely. Episode 3+1 Why Human Trust Matters More Than Ever Ironically, as AI becomes more powerful, human proof becomes even more valuable. Customers trust: Real reviews Testimonials Case studies Community engagement Founder stories AI often references publicly available reputation signals when evaluating businesses. Muck Rack+1 Featured Image Placeholder Turn Your Website Into a Selling Tool Many websites still function like digital brochures. Modern websites should instead become conversion engines. Essential improvements include: Strong Above-the-Fold Message Visitors—and AI—should immediately understand: Who you serve What problem you solve Why you’re different Topic Authority Pages Create comprehensive pages around your core services. Examples: Digital Marketing Services Affiliate Marketing Training AI Marketing Strategy Business Growth Consulting Long-form content demonstrates expertise and improves AI visibility. Episode 3+1 Optimize for AI Search Traditional SEO is no longer enough. Businesses should now optimize for AI Search Optimization (AISO). Key tactics include: Answer question-based searches. Use descriptive headings. Include FAQs. Publish expert insights. Keep business information consistent. Earn genuine customer reviews. Industry experts increasingly recommend focusing on quality content and authentic engagement instead of attempting to manipulate algorithms. The Wall Street Journal Run Your AI Visibility Test Here’s a simple exercise inspired by John Jantsch’s practical marketing approach. Open ChatGPT. Ask three questions your ideal customer would ask before hiring someone like you. Examples: Best digital marketing agency for small businesses Affordable affiliate marketing coaching Best business growth consultant Now check: Does your business appear? Is it described accurately? Are competitors appearing instead? That snapshot becomes your baseline for improving visibility. LinkedIn Action Plan for Success King Marketing Readers Use this checklist during the next 30 days. Rewrite your homepage. Create one authoritative blog each week. Publish service-specific landing pages. Collect five new customer reviews. Add FAQ sections. Improve internal linking. Test AI search visibility weekly. How Success King Marketing Inc. Can Help At Success King Marketing Inc., we help entrepreneurs build businesses that succeed in today’s AI-driven marketplace. Our resources include: Digital Marketing Guides Affiliate Marketing Training Business Growth eBooks AI Marketing Resources Online Business Tools Visit: **https://skmarketsinc.com** Conclusion AI isn’t replacing marketing. It’s changing how trust is earned. Businesses that become findable, credible, and retrievable across AI-powered search platforms will gain an advantage long before competitors catch up. The businesses that thrive in 2026 won’t simply produce more content. They’ll produce clearer answers, stronger trust signals, and better customer experiences. Links for SKMarketsInc Digital Marketing Tips https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop/ | AI Marketing Resources https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/blog/ | Affiliate Marketing Guides https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop/ | Business Growth eBooks https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop/ | Make Money Online Resources https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop/ Related Blog Posts AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize Rethinking the Customer Journey in the Age of AI Why Growth Stalls After Early Success Unlock Business Success With Info-Products Hub The AI Customer Journey Blueprint Get Access to Our Latest eBook --- ## The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-marketing-channel-ai-cant-commoditize/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-31 Why Referrals, Retention, and Trust Are Becoming the Ultimate Competitive Advantage in the AI Era Author: Awung Ngang – Success King Marketing Inc. Original Concept: Inspired by John Jantsch’s article and podcast episode “The Marketing Channel AI Can’t Commoditize” published by Duct Tape Marketing. Original ideas remain credited to John Jantsch. Discover why referrals, customer retention, and trust have become the most valuable marketing channels in the AI era. Learn practical referral strategies for small businesses. | Introduction Artificial intelligence has transformed marketing faster than most businesses anticipated. Creating blog posts, advertisements, emails, and social media captions now takes minutes instead of hours. While this has dramatically increased content production, it has also created a new problem: When everyone can create good content, good content is no longer enough. Marketing strategist John Jantsch argues that businesses should stop competing in the crowded content race and instead invest in something AI cannot easily commoditize—human trust. His insights are particularly valuable for entrepreneurs, consultants, agencies, and small business owners looking to build sustainable growth instead of chasing endless new leads. Featured Image Suggestion Featured Image Placeholder Alt text: AI marketing trust referrals customer retention illustration. AI Changed Marketing—But Not Human Decision Making One of the biggest shifts in digital marketing is that buyers increasingly use AI tools and intelligent search engines to help them evaluate businesses. Instead of comparing dozens of websites manually, people ask AI: “Which agency should I hire?” “What’s the best marketing consultant?” “Which business has the best reputation?” These systems often rely on: Customer reviews Testimonials Social proof Brand reputation Referral signals This means businesses with stronger relationships—not just better content—are more likely to be recommended. Success King Insight If your business wants AI to recommend you, optimize for real customer satisfaction before optimizing for algorithms. The Real Opportunity Lives After the Sale Many businesses invest heavily in attracting new customers while neglecting existing ones. John Jantsch revisits an idea from his bestselling book The Referral Engine that has become even more relevant today: The greatest marketing advantage now exists in the back half of the customer journey. Think of it like this: --- ## Business and Investment Tips 2026: The Ultimate Wealth Building Guide URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/business-investment-tips-2026-wealth-building-guide/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-30 The Ultimate Guide to Building Wealth in a Changing Economy Practical strategies for entrepreneurs, investors, and side hustlers to grow income, build resilient businesses, and create long-term wealth in 2026. Business and Investment Tips 2026 The business landscape in 2026 is evolving faster than ever. Artificial intelligence is transforming marketing. Digital businesses are outperforming traditional models. Investors are becoming more selective, rewarding companies with strong fundamentals instead of hype. OECD+1 Whether you’re launching a startup, growing an online business, or investing for long-term wealth, adapting to these shifts can position you for sustainable success. This guide shares practical strategies designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, affiliate marketers, and investors looking to thrive in today’s economy. Why 2026 Is Different Several powerful trends are reshaping business and investing: AI is becoming a core productivity tool rather than just a novelty. Investors are prioritizing profitability and strong execution. Digital products continue creating scalable income opportunities. Small businesses with automation gain competitive advantages. Global markets reward selective investing over speculation.Reuters+2 These shifts create opportunities for people willing to learn and adapt. 1. Build Multiple Income Streams 6 Relying on one income source increases financial risk. Consider combining: Affiliate marketing Digital product sales Online courses Freelancing Dividend investing Rental income Success King Tip Start with one profitable income stream before expanding into others. Related SKMI Resources 100 Digital Marketing Tips (eBook) Affiliate Marketing Resources Digital Product Marketplace 2. Let AI Increase Productivity 7 AI works best as an assistant—not a replacement. Use it for: Content creation Email marketing Customer support Market research SEO optimization Workflow automation Businesses investing in software, data, and digital infrastructure continue shifting toward knowledge-based growth. OECD 3. Invest in Skills Before Assets 6 The highest-return investment often comes from learning. High-value skills include: Digital Marketing SEO Copywriting Sales Data Analysis AI Prompt Engineering Financial Literacy Better skills increase earning potential regardless of market conditions. 4. Create Digital Assets That Earn While You Sleep 7 Digital assets scale better than trading time for money. Examples: eBooks Templates Online courses Membership sites Software Printables These products can generate recurring revenue with minimal additional costs. 5. Invest Selectively Instead of Chasing Hype 5 Markets reward discipline. Instead of buying trending assets blindly: Study company fundamentals. Diversify investments. Keep long-term goals. Avoid emotional decisions. Analysts expect increasing selectivity as investors look beyond overvalued sectors toward stronger businesses and undervalued opportunities. Reuters 6. Keep Cash Available for Opportunities Cash provides flexibility. Maintain reserves for: Emergency expenses Business investments Discounted buying opportunities Marketing campaigns Liquidity creates options during uncertain markets. 7. Build a Personal Brand 6 People increasingly buy from trusted experts. Build authority through: LinkedIn YouTube Blogging Email newsletters Podcast interviews A strong brand compounds over time. 8. Automate Marketing Marketing automation saves time while increasing conversions. Automate: Email sequences Lead nurturing Social scheduling Customer follow-ups Automation allows businesses to grow without constantly increasing workload. 9. Protect Your Investments Risk management matters. Protect yourself with: Emergency funds Insurance Two-factor authentication Password managers Diversification Growing wealth also means protecting it. 10. Think Globally Online businesses can reach worldwide customers. Consider: International affiliates Digital marketplaces Global payment systems Cross-border partnerships Technology removes many traditional barriers. 11. Master Cash Flow Revenue is important. Cash flow keeps businesses alive. Track: Monthly expenses Profit margins Marketing ROI Customer acquisition costs Healthy cash flow supports sustainable growth. 12. Network Strategically Relationships create opportunities. Network through: Industry events Online communities LinkedIn Mastermind groups Strong networks often lead to partnerships and referrals. 13. Focus on Long-Term Wealth Wealth grows through consistency. Prioritize: Regular investing Business reinvestment Continuous learning Patience Compound growth rewards long-term thinking. 14. Use Data to Make Better Decisions Successful businesses measure performance. Track: Website traffic Conversion rates Customer lifetime value Advertising ROI Data removes guesswork. 15. Stay Adaptable Markets evolve. The businesses that survive are those willing to: Learn new technologies Improve processes Listen to customers Innovate consistently Adaptability becomes a competitive advantage. Investment Opportunities to Watch 4 Several areas continue attracting attention from investors: | Opportunity | Why It Matters AI-powered businesses | Productivity and automation | Healthcare innovation | Aging populations | Small-cap companies | Potential rebound opportunities | Emerging markets | Attractive long-term valuations | Digital education | Growing online learning demand These opportunities still require proper research and diversification. Reuters+1 Common Mistakes to Avoid Avoid these costly errors: Investing emotionally Ignoring cash flow Chasing viral trends Neglecting cybersecurity Failing to diversify Waiting too long to start Small consistent actions often outperform perfect timing. Business Growth Checklist Create multiple income streams Build a personal brand Learn AI tools Launch a digital product Automate marketing Invest consistently Track cash flow Network regularly Protect your finances Keep learning How Success King Marketing Inc. Can Help At Success King Marketing Inc., we help entrepreneurs build profitable online businesses through affordable digital products, marketing resources, and practical business education. Explore our marketplace for: Digital Marketing eBooks Affiliate Marketing Guides Online Business Resources Wealth-Building Digital Products Marketing Templates Digital Products Shop Visit: Success King Marketing Inc. Our Insights Links 100 Digital Marketing Tips /shop/100-digital-marketing-tips/   Affiliate Marketing Guide /blog/affiliate-marketing/ | Make Money Online /make-money/ | Digital Products Shop /shop/ | Business Blog Insights /blog/   Related Posts Why Growth Stalls After Early Success Rethinking Workflows in the Age of AI AI Can Create Content. It Can’t Create Thought Leadership Unlock Business Success with Info-Products Hub How Beginners Can Start Affiliate Marketing   Read now at Success King Marketing Inc. #Business2026 #Investing #Entrepreneurship #PassiveIncome #DigitalMarketing #SuccessKing --- ## AI’s Customer Journey: How Businesses Can Stay Visible and Winning URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ai-rewriting-customer-journey/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-29 Why your next customer may never visit Google first—and what your business must do to earn trust in an AI-first world. Author: Awung Ngang Category: Marketing Insights Website: Success King Marketing Inc. URL: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/ai-rewriting-customer-journey/ Featured Image AI-powered customer journey illustration showing search, trust, and business growth. AI Is Changing How Customers Choose Your Business Think about the last time you needed a service you had never purchased before. Maybe it was a contractor, a financial advisor, or a marketing agency. Did you immediately open Google? Increasingly, many people don’t. Instead, they ask ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, or another AI assistant. That shift is reshaping digital marketing faster than most businesses realize. Recent industry research suggests that AI has become a major part of the buying process, with many consumers using generative AI to research products and services before contacting a company. Even more interesting, visitors arriving through AI-powered recommendations often show stronger purchase intent than traditional search traffic. The takeaway is simple: Your next customer may decide whether you’re worth contacting before ever visiting your website. That means businesses need to optimize not only for search engines—but also for AI-powered discovery. The Customer Journey Didn’t Disappear—It Evolved At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe customers still move through familiar decision-making stages: Discover Connect Trust Explore Buy Return Recommend What’s different is how AI influences each step. Let’s explore where businesses need to adapt. Stage 1: Discovery Happens Inside AI Years ago, customers searched Google, visited several websites, and compared options manually. Today, someone might ask: “Who is the best digital marketing agency for small businesses?” Instead of showing ten blue links, AI often provides a short list of recommendations. Those recommendations are built from multiple sources, including: Business websites Reviews Directories Industry mentions Community discussions How to Improve AI Visibility Make it easy for both search engines and AI systems to understand your business. Clearly state who you serve. Explain your services in plain language. Keep business information consistent across directories. Earn reviews from real customers. Publish helpful educational content. The clearer your expertise appears online, the easier it becomes for AI systems to recommend your business. Internal Link Suggestion: Link naturally to “Rethinking the Customer Journey in the Age of AI” for readers interested in additional perspectives. Stage 2: Generic Content No Longer Builds Connection AI has made content creation faster. But it has also made average content easier to ignore. Customers are becoming skilled at recognizing recycled advice. Instead of sounding like everyone else: Share personal experiences. Tell client success stories. Explain lessons learned. Show your team’s personality. Authenticity has become a competitive advantage. Practical Tip Use AI to organize ideas—but let your expertise shape the final message. People connect with people, not templates. Stage 3: Trust Requires Real Proof As AI-generated content increases, skepticism grows. Customers now look for evidence. Strong trust signals include: Real client testimonials Case studies Team photos Video reviews Transparent processes Industry recognition Ask yourself: Could a potential customer verify your credibility within two minutes? If the answer is no, your trust-building assets need attention. Stage 4: Give Customers a Low-Risk First Step Many visitors aren’t ready to schedule a sales call. They want to learn first. Instead of offering only a “Contact Us” button, create smaller commitments. Examples include: Free website audits Marketing scorecards ROI calculators AI readiness assessments Mini consultations These experiences help customers evaluate your expertise before making a larger decision. Stage 5: Buying Is About Confirmation, Not Persuasion By the time someone contacts you, they’ve often already researched: Your reviews Your competitors Your pricing Your reputation Your job isn’t to convince them from scratch. Your job is to remove the final obstacle. Make Buying Easier Clearly explain your process. Display realistic expectations. Highlight measurable results. Provide one obvious next step. A simple buying experience builds confidence. Stage 6: AI Can Strengthen Customer Relationships Winning a client is only the beginning. Retention is where sustainable growth happens. AI can help businesses personalize follow-up experiences through: Welcome emails Progress updates Educational resources Timely reminders Customer support automation When customers feel understood, they’re more likely to stay. Stage 7: Referrals Still Matter Most Word-of-mouth remains one of the strongest growth channels. AI hasn’t replaced referrals. It has amplified them. Positive reviews, online mentions, and customer stories become signals that AI systems may incorporate when recommending businesses. Make it easy for satisfied clients to share their experiences. How Success King Marketing Inc. Helps Businesses Stay Visible The future belongs to businesses that combine technology with human expertise. At Success King Marketing Inc., we help organizations: Improve SEO for both search engines and AI-powered search. Build trust through content marketing. Optimize websites for conversions. Strengthen local visibility. Create customer journeys that encourage repeat business. Our approach focuses on sustainable digital growth—not shortcuts. Key Takeaways AI hasn’t eliminated the customer journey. It has changed how people move through it. The businesses that thrive will: Be easier for AI to understand. Publish authentic content. Build verifiable trust. Offer valuable first interactions. Create exceptional customer experiences after the sale. Visibility now depends on more than rankings. It depends on becoming the business both people and AI confidently recommend. Frequently Asked Questions What is an AI customer journey? An AI customer journey describes how consumers use AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to discover, evaluate, and choose businesses before making purchasing decisions. How can my business appear in AI recommendations? Improve website clarity, publish helpful content, maintain accurate business listings, earn authentic reviews, and build authority across trusted platforms. Is SEO still important if customers use AI? Yes. Modern SEO now supports both search engines and AI-powered discovery, making structured, trustworthy content more valuable than ever. Related Posts (Internal Linking) Add these as internal links within the article or beneath the content. Rethinking the Customer Journey in the Age of AI — Expand your understanding of how AI is transforming buyer behavior. The Future of SEO in the AI Era (Get Your pdf Copy In Shop) How Small Businesses Can Build Trust Online (Get Your pdf Copy In Shop) Content Marketing Strategies That Actually Convert (Get Your pdf Copy In Shop) Recommended Alt Text --- ## Rethinking the customer journey in the age of AI URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/rethinking-the-customer-journey-in-the-age-of-ai/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-28 Driving Customer Engagement and Loyalty with AI Rethinking the customer journey in the age of AI written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Think about the last time you needed a service you’d never bought before. A new accountant. A contractor. Someone to fix your marketing. Where did you start? For more and more buyers, the honest answer is: they asked AI. The research backs this up. 6sense found that 94% of buyers used a generative AI tool […] Rethinking the customer journey in the age of AI written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Think about the last time you needed a service you’d never bought before. A new accountant. A contractor. Someone to fix your marketing. Where did you start? For more and more buyers, the honest answer is: they asked AI. The research backs this up. 6sense found that 94% of buyers used a generative AI tool during their most recent purchase process. Adobe Digital Insights reports that AI referral traffic converts 42% better than traffic from other sources. So right now, someone who needs exactly what you sell is asking AI who to hire. In seconds, they’ll get a short list of recommended names. You’ll never see it happen. And you may not be on the list. The journey survived. The stages got rewired. The path a buyer walks hasn’t changed. They find you, warm up to you, learn to trust you, take a small step, buy, come back, and send a friend. That part is human, and it isn’t going anywhere. At Duct Tape Marketing we map that path with the Marketing Hourglass: Know, Like, Trust, Try, Buy, Repeat, Refer. A funnel pours people in the top and forgets them after the sale. The Hourglass widens again after the purchase, because repeat business and referrals are where the most profitable growth lives. What AI changed is how buyers move through each stage. Walk through all seven with me and notice which ones feel thin in your business. Know: how buyers find you Buyers now run a full research phase inside AI before they ever reach your site. Someone asks “who helps a $5M HVAC company with marketing” and gets three names. “Best service near me” gets answered right in the AI summary while the map listings go unclicked. And AI builds those answers from Reddit threads, directories, and reviews. Sources you don’t control. Forrester found twice as many buyers named AI their most useful research source than any other, ahead of websites, experts, and sales reps. Whether you show up in the answer now matters more than where you rank. What wins: pages that plainly state who you serve and what you do, structured so AI can read them. Presence on the sources AI pulls from. A mix of organic and paid. On the paid side, we ran a small test of ChatGPT Ads for a client at $500 a month. Within a few weeks it landed an $18,000 client, larger than their average deal, with a shorter sales cycle. The buyer got educated inside AI before ever reaching out. Like: how buyers warm up to you AI made competent content free. So competent no longer stands out. Blog posts that could carry any company’s logo. LinkedIn posts written in the same AI cadence. Advice that repeats what every competitor is already saying. The human voice is the one thing AI can’t copy. The founder on camera saying something a competitor wouldn’t. A story from inside your business that only you could tell. A public stance on where your industry gets it wrong. A voice people recognize in two lines. The rule I gave the room: use AI to produce, never to think. Trust: If the buyers come to believe you The web filled up with fakes, so buyers doubt everything by default. Reviews that all sound suspiciously alike. Testimonials with no name and no face. Stock-photo “teams” and AI-generated headshots. When anything can be faked, real and verifiable wins. Your actual face and your actual team. Named clients a buyer can go check. A video testimonial from someone people can look up. Pricing and process shown in the open. Getting quoted or interviewed somewhere you don’t control. Quick gut check: do you have a named, real proof asset you could point to right now? Try: how buyers take the first step Buyers want to try before they talk to anyone. They research and self-qualify long before they’ll book a call. Yet in most small businesses there’s no step between “interested” and “book a call.” A buyer who isn’t ready to talk has nowhere to go, so they leave. That gap is a leak, and it’s the cheapest one to fix. AI made a real, low-risk first step cheap to build: a 2-minute diagnostic that hands back a personalized answer, a free teardown of their current setup, a calculator or scorecard they can run themselves, or a small paid engagement instead of a leap to a big commitment. A buyer who takes your first step arrives more qualified and closes faster. Buy: And how buyers decide Buyers show up already decided. They’ve read your pricing and your reviews. They’ve compared you to 2 or 3 competitors. They’ve fact-checked your claims against AI. The last question in their head is “why you, and can I trust you?” Your job moved from convincing to confirming. Make the yes easy with clear pricing, a plain statement of who this is for, and one obvious next step. Answer the last doubt before it’s asked with a comparison, a guarantee, or a real result. And make sure what AI and reviews say about you backs up your own pitch. Repeat: how customers come back Anyone can generate Know, Like, and Trust content now. A delivered experience still has to be earned. Here’s the good news for small teams. AI can personalize the relationship at a scale you never could by hand. Onboarding that adapts to exactly what the customer bought. Check-ins timed to how they actual --- ## AI Can Write Content—But Real Thought Leadership Still Wins URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ai-thought-leadership-content-strategy/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-28 Why Businesses Must Combine Human Expertise with AI to Build Trust, Authority, and Long-Term Growth Author: AWUNG NGANG Success King Marketing Inc. INSIGHTS Team of Professionals Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Business leader using AI while creating strategic content in a modern office. AI Is Everywhere—But Original Thinking Is Becoming More Valuable Artificial intelligence has transformed content creation. Today, anyone can generate blog posts, social media captions, product descriptions, and marketing emails in minutes. What once required hours of writing can now happen almost instantly. But here’s the reality many businesses are discovering: Content is becoming abundant. Genuine insight remains scarce. That distinction matters more than ever. Marketing expert John Jantsch argues that while AI excels at producing content, it cannot replace the unique experiences, perspectives, and judgment that define true thought leadership. ducttapemarketing.com+1 For businesses like Success King Marketing Inc., this creates an opportunity—not a threat. The businesses that combine AI’s efficiency with authentic expertise will become the brands people trust. What Is Thought Leadership? 6 Thought leadership is more than publishing content regularly. It’s the ability to shape conversations by sharing: Original ideas Real experiences Practical solutions Industry insights Proven frameworks People don’t follow thought leaders because they publish frequently. They follow them because they offer perspectives worth remembering. AI can summarize information. Thought leaders create new ways of seeing familiar problems. The Biggest Mistake Businesses Make With AI Many companies now treat AI as a replacement instead of an amplifier. Instead of asking, “How can AI help us communicate our expertise?” they ask, “Can AI create everything for us?” That approach usually produces content that feels: Generic Repetitive Forgettable Similar to everyone else’s As AI-generated content floods the internet, authenticity becomes a competitive advantage. ducttapemarketing.com+1 What AI Does Exceptionally Well 7 Rather than replacing human creativity, AI works best as a powerful assistant. Use AI to: Generate outlines Brainstorm ideas Rewrite drafts Improve readability Create multiple content formats Organize research Repurpose blog posts into social media content These tasks save valuable time. The thinking behind them should still come from you. What AI Cannot Replace Here are five things that remain uniquely human. 1. Experience Your business lessons matter. Customers trust stories about: mistakes successes failures breakthroughs AI doesn’t live those experiences. You do. 2. Judgment Business decisions rarely have perfect answers. Knowing: when to pivot which opportunity to reject how to handle customers comes from experience—not prediction alone. 3. Conviction Thought leaders stand for something. They develop opinions. They defend ideas. AI predicts likely answers. Leaders shape better ones. 4. Relationships People buy from brands they trust. Trust grows through: conversations consistency transparency community AI can assist communication. It cannot build genuine relationships by itself. 5. Original Frameworks Some of the most memorable businesses become known for their own methods. Examples include: unique marketing systems signature coaching models proprietary business frameworks These become intellectual assets that distinguish your brand. The Five Thought Leader Profiles One fascinating idea discussed by Peter Winick and John Jantsch is that not every expert builds authority the same way. Thought Leadership Leverage+1 Different professionals naturally fit different styles. Examples include: The Speaker The Author The Consultant The Educator The Practitioner Instead of trying to master every platform, identify the format that best fits your strengths. Consistency matters more than doing everything. Build Your AI + Human Content System Instead of choosing between AI and authenticity, combine them. Step 1: Start With Your Idea Write: your opinion your lesson your customer insight Step 2: Let AI Expand It Ask AI to: organize clarify simplify Step 3: Add Your Stories Include: client examples personal lessons real outcomes Step 4: Publish Everywhere Repurpose into: LinkedIn posts Facebook posts X threads YouTube scripts email newsletters blog articles One strong idea can become dozens of content pieces. Why This Matters for SEO Search engines—and increasingly AI-powered search assistants—reward content that demonstrates: Experience Expertise Authority Trustworthiness Original insights naturally generate: backlinks shares engagement longer reading times These signals strengthen your website’s long-term visibility. Instead of chasing keywords alone, build content people actually remember. How Success King Marketing Inc. Uses This Approach At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe AI should accelerate creativity—not replace expertise. Our approach combines: strategic marketing knowledge SEO optimization practical business education digital product creation AI-assisted productivity This allows entrepreneurs and businesses to produce higher-quality content while maintaining an authentic brand voice. The goal isn’t simply creating more content. The goal is creating content that builds trust. Practical Action Plan Use this weekly routine. Day Action Monday Record one business insight Tuesday Expand it with AI Wednesday Turn it into a blog post Thursday Create social posts Friday Send an email newsletter Weekend Review engagement Repeat consistently. Authority compounds over time. Recommended Resources from Success King Marketing Inc. 100 Digital Marketing Tips Practical strategies to grow your online presence and improve marketing performance. View in Shop Affiliate Marketing 101 Learn how to start earning online with affiliate marketing using beginner-friendly strategies. View in Shop Success in Business A practical guide for entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable business growth. View in Shop The Prosperity Blueprint Discover strategies for building a wealth-focused mindset and business success. View in Shop Related Articles Why Growth Stalls After Early Success /why-growth-stalls-after-early-success/   Rethinking Workflows in the Age of AI /rethinking-workflows-age-of-ai/   Unlock Business Success With Info-Products Hub /unlock-business-success-info-products-hub/   Backup Series: How Often Should You Backup Your Website? /backup-series-how-often-should-you-backup-your-website/   Print and Profit Machines /print-and-profit-machines/ External Reference This article is inspired by ideas discussed by John Jantsch and Peter Winick regarding the growing importance of authentic thought leadership in the AI era. ducttapemarketing.com+1 Conclusion AI has changed how content is created. It has not changed why people trust businesses. Customers still buy from brands that demonstrate expertise, share authentic experiences, and offer meaningful solutions. The future belongs to businesses that let AI handle the repetitive work while they focus on what machines cannot replicate—original thinking, human judgment, and genuine leadership. Don’t compete to publish the most content. Compete to become the voice people remember. SEO Extras Suggested Image Alt Text AI thought leadership strategy Business leader using AI marketing tools Human creativity and artificial intelligence AI content marketing workflow Digital marketing authority Suggested Tags AI Marketing, Thought Leadership, Content Marketing, SEO Strategy, Business Growth, Digital Marketing, Personal Branding, Success King Marketing Inc   --- ## Discover eBooks That Help You Learn, Grow & Succeed Online URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ebooks-to-make-money-online/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-15 Learn Practical Knowledge: Digital Resources & Blog Insights for Building Skills, Business and Online Income By AWUNG NGANG | Success King Marketing Inc.   []   In a world where information is everywhere but practical knowledge can be difficult to find, Success King Marketing Inc. is designed to make discovering useful digital resources easier. Whether you want to learn how to start an online business, understand affiliate marketing, improve your digital marketing skills, develop a stronger mindset, explore personal growth, or simply find useful educational resources, the Success King Marketing Inc. platform brings eBooks, eCourses, digital products and Blog Insights together in one place. Explore Success King Marketing Inc. Turn Knowledge Into Action Knowledge becomes valuable when you can apply it. That is the philosophy behind the digital resources available through Success King Marketing Inc. The website currently features eBooks and resources across multiple areas, including eBusiness and eMarketing, education, health and fitness, home and family, manifestation, self-help, spirituality and starting a business. (skmarketsinc.com) Instead of searching dozens of websites for information, visitors can explore different topics and choose resources that match their goals. Looking to Make Money Online? Starting an online income journey can be confusing when you don’t know what to learn first. The right educational resource can help you understand concepts such as: Affiliate marketing Digital marketing Online business Entrepreneurship Content creation Personal branding Productivity Business development Digital products Online skills The goal isn’t to promise overnight wealth. The goal is to learn, apply, improve and build progressively. That’s where practical eBooks and educational Blog Insights can become useful tools. Explore eBooks Across Major Niches One of the biggest advantages of the Success King Marketing Inc. store is its broad selection of digital topics. Current categories include eBusiness & eMarketing, Education, Health & Fitness, Home & Family, Manifestation, Self Help, Spirituality and Startup A Business eBooks. (skmarketsinc.com) 💻 Business & Entrepreneurship If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, business strategy or building a new venture, the store includes resources designed around business and startup topics. For example, How To Start A New Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide is positioned as a practical resource for people interested in starting a business. (skmarketsinc.com) 📈 Digital Marketing & Online Growth Digital marketing is one of the most important skill areas for today’s online economy. Resources such as 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 provide readers with ideas and strategies they can study and apply to their online presence. (skmarketsinc.com) For entrepreneurs, creators and affiliate marketers, developing digital marketing knowledge can be an important part of building an online business. 💰 Investing & Financial Knowledge The store also features resources such as Mastering The Art Of Investing Outstanding Guide, giving readers another avenue for expanding their financial and investment knowledge. (skmarketsinc.com) Educational resources should always be approached as learning material rather than personalized financial advice, but building your financial literacy is a valuable long-term skill. 🧠 Personal Development & Mindset Success isn’t only about business. Mindset, confidence, productivity and personal development can influence how consistently you pursue your goals. The store includes self-help and personal-development resources, including Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into Reality. The related product description focuses on mindset, intentions, visualization, affirmations and taking practical action toward goals. (skmarketsinc.com) 🏋️ Health & Fitness Success also includes taking care of yourself. Success King Marketing Inc. features health and fitness resources such as The Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 2026, giving readers access to educational material in the health and wellness category. (skmarketsinc.com) Don’t Just Read—Learn, Apply and Grow An eBook shouldn’t simply sit on your device after you download it. A better approach is: Read → Learn → Apply → Measure → Improve → Repeat. For example, if you purchase a digital marketing guide, identify one strategy you can implement immediately. If you read an entrepreneurship guide, turn one idea into a business action. Also, If you study an affiliate marketing resource, create a simple plan and begin testing what you learn. If you’re exploring personal development, choose one habit and practice it consistently. The objective is transformation through action. Why Explore Success King Marketing Inc.? Success King Marketing Inc. positions itself as more than an online digital-product store. The website combines eBooks, eCourses, digital resources and Blog Insights designed to help visitors learn and make more informed decisions. (skmarketsinc.com) One Platform. Many Learning Opportunities. You can explore resources related to: Make Money Online • Business • Affiliate Marketing • Digital Marketing • Education • Health & Fitness • Self-Help • Personal Development • Entrepreneurship • Manifestation • Family • Spirituality This variety makes the platform useful for people at different stages of their personal and professional journey. Learn From Blog Insights Before You Buy Not every visitor is ready to purchase immediately—and that’s okay. The Blog Insights section provides another way to discover information, ideas, strategies and recommendations before deciding which digital resources are right for you. Visit the Blog Insights section Use the blog to learn about online business, digital marketing, making money online, product recommendations and other practical topics, then explore the store when you find a subject you want to study more deeply. Build Your Personal Digital Library Imagine having a growing digital library covering the subjects you care about most. You could begin with: 1. Business Learn how businesses are started, developed and marketed. 2. Digital Marketing Improve your understanding of online visibility, content and promotion. 3. Affiliate Marketing Study how affiliate business models work and learn strategies you can test. 4. Personal Development Build better habits, confidence, productivity and goal-setting skills. 5. Health & Fitness Explore educational resources related to wellness and fitness. 6. Investing & Financial Education Expand your knowledge of money and investment concepts. 7. Online Income Skills Develop practical digital skills that can support future online opportunities. Featured eBooks to Explore Here are several examples currently featured on the Success King Marketing Inc. website: 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 How To Start A New Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide Mastering The Art Of Investing Outstanding Guide Manifest Your Dreams: Turn Your Desires Into Reality The Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 2026 Are You Highly Emotionally Reactive? You Might Be Stuck in Survival Mode Kindness vs. Boundaries Guide for Parents & Professionals SEO Services: The Complete Guide for 2026 (skmarketsinc.com) Browse the eBook collection Your Next Skill Could Start With One eBook You don’t need to learn everything at once. Choose one subject. Choose one useful resource. Learn one concept. Take one action. Then repeat. That simple process can gradually turn information into skills—and skills can create new opportunities. Success King Marketing Inc. is built around that idea: helping people discover knowledge and digital resources that can support learning, growth and online opportunities. Ready to Start Learning? Whether you’re a beginner exploring online income, an entrepreneur looking for business knowledge, a digital marketer searching for new ideas, or someone interested in personal development, there is something worth exploring. Don’t let information overload stop you from taking the first step. Start with one eBook. Read one useful Blog Insight. Apply one strategy. Take one step forward. 🚀 Your next breakthrough could begin with what you learn today. SHOP SUCCESS KING MARKETING INC. Success King Marketing Inc. — Learn. Grow. Take Action. Build Your Future. Related Content & Internal Linking Opportunities For the published WordPress version, connect this article naturally to: Shop / eBook Store: Browse All eBooks Blog Insights: Read Blog Insights How To Start A New Business 2026: Link directly from the article’s business section. 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026: Link from the digital marketing section. Manifest Your Dreams: Link from the personal-development section. Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Nutrition 2026: Link from the health-and-fitness section. Mastering The Art Of Investing: Link from the investing section. Suggested CTA button: [ EXPLORE eBOOKS & START LEARNING ] Suggested secondary CTA: [ READ OUR LATEST BLOG INSIGHTS ] [] Author: AWUNG NGANG Brand: Succecc King Marketing Inc. Website: skmarketsinc.com 🚀 Stop Searching. Start Learning. Start Building. What if the next skill you need to grow your business or online income is already inside an eBook? At Success King Marketing Inc., you can explore digital resources covering online business, affiliate marketing, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, investing, health & fitness, self-improvement, manifestation, education and much more. 📚 Learn practical concepts. 💡 Discover new ideas. 🚀 Take action on what you learn. 💰 Build skills that can create new opportunities. From 100 Digital Marketing Tips – 2026 and How To Start A New Business 2026 to investing, personal development and health resources, there are eBooks for different goals and interests. (skmarketsinc.com) 🔥 Your next opportunity could start with your next lesson. 👉 Explore the eBook Store: https://skmarketsinc.com 📖 Read Blog Insights: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/blog-insights-posts/ Success King Marketing Inc. Learn. Grow. Take Action. Build Your Future. eBooks to Make Money Online. #SuccessKingMarketing #eBooks #MakeMoneyOnline #AffiliateMarketing #DigitalMarketing #OnlineBusiness #Entrepreneurship #PersonalDevelopment #BusinessTips #OnlineIncome #DigitalProducts #eLearning --- ## Tips for Small-Town Retailers Buying Inventory via Wholesale Apps URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/tips-for-small-town-retailers-buying-inventory-from-wholesale-apps/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-11 Buy Inventory Online with Wholesale Apps: Tips for Small-Town Retailers I walked into a new local retail shop in Alva, Oklahoma, population 4,000. It’s called Bates & Co., and they are best known for their handcrafted hairbows for infants and kids. But when I walked into their store, they had all kinds of things under one roof: women’s clothes, fashion jewelry, travel accessories and more. […] I walked into a new local retail shop in Alva, Oklahoma, population 4,000. It’s called Bates & Co., and they are best known for their handcrafted hairbows for infants and kids. Bates & Co used to be Bates & Bows, known for these amazing hairbows. Photo by Becky McCray But when I walked into their store, they had all kinds of things under one roof: women’s clothes, fashion jewelry, travel accessories and more. It was a rural women lifestyle kind of shop. I asked the owner where she found all her products, did she go to the Dallas Markets to find them? She said no, she bought from the wholesale apps on her phone. I was floored! I used to run a retail liquor store, and we could only purchase from approved wholesalers licensed by the state. I had no idea the power of a simple wholesale app on your phone! So I bet there are other business owners or hopeful future store owners who don’t know that either! Wholesale apps are your trade show that never closes If you’ve only ever bought inventory through licensed distributors or in-person markets, this feels almost unreal. But for many retail categories — especially clothing, gifts, accessories, home décor, and boutique-style items — there are wholesale marketplaces that live right on your phone. And no airfare or hotel bill. That’s powerful in a town of 4,000. But it also means you need to be a smart buyer. Green flags: signs a wholesale app is worth your time I did a little research on this, and I’m excited about the potential for rural retail businesses! If I were starting with these apps today, here’s what I’d look for first: Clear wholesale requirements Legit apps usually require: A business name An EIN or business registration Sometimes a resale certificate That’s a good sign. It means they’re trying to keep retail shoppers out of the wholesale pool. Transparent pricing and minimums You should see: Wholesale prices clearly marked Reasonable minimum order quantities (MOQs) The ability to test with a small first order You don’t need massive quantities in your small town boutique, so look for apps that understand that. Real brand information Look for: Brand story and location How long they’ve been on the platform Reviews from other shop owners If you can’t tell who you’re buying from, slow down. Shipping timelines you can live with Some items ship in days. Others are preorder and ship in weeks. Both are fine — as long as it’s clearly stated, and as long as that works for your business. Red flags: when to delete that app These are the things that would make me nervous: Prices that don’t seem right If the “wholesale” price is what you’d expect to pay at Walmart, something’s off. Either quality will disappoint, or you’re not really buying wholesale. No clear return or damage policy Stuff happens in shipping. If there’s no explanation of what happens when it does, assume you’re on your own. Retail customers mixed in If the app openly sells single items to consumers and claims to be wholesale, that’s a warning sign. It puts you in direct competition with your own supplier. Pressure tactics Countdown clocks, “only 3 left!” warnings, or constant push notifications are designed to lead to bad buying decisions. Does it remind you of a gross online casino? Delete it and move on. Use apps to multiply your local advantage Small-town retailers like you actually have built-in advantages when it comes to using wholesale apps, advantages that big-city shops often don’t. You don’t ne Our Website;Success king marketing Inc Url; www.skmarketsinc.com     --- ## Stop Chasing Everything: Discover The Hidden Power of Contentment URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/find-the-hidden-power-of-contentment/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-10 Why letting go might be the smartest move you’ll ever make Introduction Here’s the uncomfortable truth: most people aren’t unhappy because they lack something—they’re unhappy because they can’t stop wanting more. More Money, Success and Recognition. Yet, the more they chase… the emptier it feels. Contentment flips the script. [] The Trap Nobody Talks About Craving is addictive. It convinces you that happiness is always one step ahead. But here’s the catch: Once you get what you want, your mind immediately upgrades the target. That’s not ambition—that’s a loop. Contentment Is a Power Move Contentment isn’t weakness. It’s control. When you’re content: You’re not easily manipulated, or chase validation. And you make decisions from clarity—not desperation That’s how real winners operate. How to Break Free from Constant Wanting 1. Catch the “Next Thing” Syndrome Every time you think: “I’ll be happy when…” — pause. That sentence is the trap. 2. Reprogram Your Brain Daily Gratitude isn’t fluffy—it’s neurological conditioning. Train your mind to see: What’s working To see What’s enough And What’s already valuable Do it daily. No excuses. 3. Give More Than You Take Want less? Give more. It sounds backwards—but generosity rewires your identity from “lacking” to “overflowing.” And people who feel abundant don’t chase—they attract. 4. Detach Without Disconnecting You can still want success—just don’t let it own you. Work hard. Build wealth. Grow. But don’t tie your peace to outcomes. 5. Create Silence in a Noisy World Your mind is overstimulated. Of course it craves. Silence resets everything. No phone. No noise. Just you. That’s where clarity lives. Why This Changes Everything Most people are chasing money to feel secure. But contentment gives you that feeling first. And ironically? That’s when better opportunities show up. Final Word You don’t need more to feel better or need less attachment. Because the moment you stop chasing everything… You finally start living. Internal Growth Paths Start earning smarter → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/make-money-online Build passive income → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/digital-products Upgrade your mindset → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/blog-insights Related Reads Happiness Without Love Mindset Shifts That Create Wealth Why Most People Stay Stuck Call to Action If you’re serious about leveling up your life—mentally AND financially— 👉 https://skmarketsinc.com Because success isn’t just about what you gain… It’s about what you stop chasing. Author; Awung Ngang --- ## Start Earning With Top ClickBank Products At Success King Marketing Inc URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/start-earning-with-top-clickbank-products/ Type: post Modified: 2026-08-07 Learn ClickBank affiliate marketing from scratch. Make money online by promoting best-selling digital products. We give you the tracking, the offers, the marketplace — you bring the traffic. Your passive income journey starts here Get Top Converting Offers That Pay 75% --- ## Why Business Growth Stalls After Early Success (And How to Break Through the Plateau) URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/business-growth-stalls-after-early-success/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-29 Discover the hidden reasons businesses stop growing after initial success—and learn practical strategies to reignite sustainable growth in today’s competitive digital marketplace. Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc. – https://skmarketsinc.com   [] Why Business Growth Stalls After Early Success (And How to Break Through the Plateau) Many entrepreneurs dream of reaching their first major milestone. Landing your first 100 customers, generating consistent revenue, or building a recognizable brand are exciting achievements. Yet many businesses discover an unexpected reality—growth eventually slows down. What worked during the startup phase often stops producing results. Revenue levels off, customer acquisition becomes more expensive, and competitors begin catching up. This phenomenon isn’t uncommon. Nearly every successful company eventually reaches a growth plateau. The businesses that continue thriving aren’t necessarily the smartest—they’re the ones willing to evolve. In this article, we’ll explore why business growth stalls after early success and what you can do to restart sustainable expansion. [] Business Growth Plateau 1. You Keep Doing What Worked Yesterday Early success creates confidence. Unfortunately, it can also create complacency. Many businesses continue relying on: The same marketing channels The same products The same pricing The same customer acquisition strategy Markets evolve constantly. Consumer expectations change. Technology advances. Competitors innovate. Businesses that refuse to adapt eventually stop growing. Solution Review your business every quarter. Ask yourself: What has changed? What no longer works? What opportunities are emerging? Growth requires continuous improvement. 2. Your Systems Can’t Support Growth Many businesses grow faster than their internal systems. Common problems include: Manual processes Poor customer management Weak financial tracking Inefficient workflows Lack of automation Eventually these bottlenecks limit growth. Instead of spending time expanding, you’re spending time fixing problems. Solution Invest in: Business automation CRM software Project management systems Standard operating procedures AI-powered productivity tools Strong systems create scalable businesses. [] Business automation for growth 3. Your Marketing Stops Evolving Many companies succeed through one marketing strategy. Examples include: SEO Facebook Ads Word-of-mouth Google Ads Affiliate marketing Over time these channels become saturated. Customer acquisition costs increase. Growth slows. Solution Diversify your marketing. Consider: Content marketing Email marketing Video marketing Influencer partnerships Affiliate programs AI-assisted content creation Never depend on a single traffic source. 4. You’re Serving Everyone Instead of the Right Customers As businesses grow, many begin chasing every opportunity. This usually leads to: Confusing messaging Weak branding Lower conversion rates Increased support costs Successful companies become more focused—not less. Solution Identify your ideal customer. Understand: Their biggest problems Their buying habits Their goals Their objections The more specific your audience, the easier growth becomes. 5. Innovation Stops Businesses often become comfortable after achieving success. Innovation slows. New products disappear. Customer excitement fades. Competitors quickly gain market share. Solution Innovation should become part of your company culture. Launch: New digital products Online courses Memberships Premium services Educational resources Small innovations often produce major growth. [] Business innovation strategies 6. Leadership Doesn’t Scale Many entrepreneurs remain involved in every decision. Eventually they become the biggest bottleneck. Signs include: Constant firefighting Slow approvals Employee dependency Missed opportunities Solution Develop leaders. Delegate. Document processes. Focus your time on strategic growth rather than daily operations. 7. Customer Experience Gets Ignored Acquiring new customers is important. Keeping existing customers is even more valuable. Businesses that ignore customer satisfaction often experience: Higher churn Negative reviews Lower referrals Reduced lifetime value Solution Improve every customer touchpoint. Ask for feedback. Respond quickly. Reward loyal customers. Great experiences create repeat business. 8. Data Isn’t Driving Decisions Successful businesses measure everything. Without data you’re simply guessing. Track metrics such as: Website traffic Conversion rates Customer acquisition cost Average order value Customer lifetime value Email open rates Small improvements across multiple metrics often generate substantial growth. [] Alt Text: Business growth analytics Practical Growth Strategies for 2026 and Beyond If your business has reached a plateau, consider these proven actions: Refresh your brand positioning. Invest in search engine optimization (SEO). Build an email subscriber list. Leverage artificial intelligence for content creation and customer support. Launch new digital products or online courses. Strengthen your affiliate marketing program. Optimize your website for mobile devices and Core Web Vitals. Improve customer retention with loyalty programs. Create educational blog content that solves customer problems. Analyze competitors regularly and identify market gaps. Remember, sustainable growth comes from continuous learning, innovation, and adaptation. Final Thoughts Every successful business experiences periods where growth slows. A plateau isn’t the end of your journey—it is often the beginning of your next stage of success. By embracing innovation, refining your marketing, strengthening operations, and keeping your customers at the center of your strategy, you can transform stalled growth into long-term momentum. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe every business can achieve sustainable success with the right strategies, tools, and digital resources. Stay committed to learning, adapt to change, and continue investing in systems that support lasting growth. Recommended Links (Success King Marketing Inc.) Relevant pages: Home Page: https://skmarketsinc.com Shop: https://www.skmarketsinc.com/shop/ Blog Insights Own A Store Affiliate Marketing Resources Make Money Online Business eBooks Digital Marketing Guides AI & Business Articles Website & Marketing Tools Related Posts Link to articles such as: Rethinking Business Workflows in the Age of AI What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Digital Marketing How to Start a New Business Unlock Business Success With Info-Products Hub Is AI a Survival Skill for Consultants? Backup Series: How Often Should You Backup Your Website? External Resources Include links to authoritative sources such as: Google Search Central SEO Documentation HubSpot Marketing Blog Small Business Administration (SBA) SCORE Business Mentoring Harvard Business Review Why Growth Stops After Early Wins — How to Break the Plateau to Action Ready to move beyond the growth plateau? Explore the latest business eBooks, AI resources, affiliate marketing tools, and digital products in the Success King Marketing Inc. Shop. Subscribe to Blog Insights for actionable strategies that help entrepreneurs, marketers, and small business owners achieve sustainable growth. --- ## The Ultimate Step By Step Guide to Business Success eBook URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ultimate-guide-to-business-success/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-14 Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.🚀 Success belongs to those who adapt, innovate, and take action. Get “Success In Business: The Ultimate Guide to Thriving in Today’s Business” – the powerful resource for entrepreneurs, professionals & business owners. ✅ Master AI business tools ✅ Track growth metrics that matter ✅ Stay ahead in a fast-changing world 👉 Get Your Free Guide Now 📍 www.skmarketsinc.com #BusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGuide #SmallBusiness #AIBusiness #BusinessGrowth #DigitalMarketing #SKMarketsInc --- ## Rethinking AI Business Workflows in todays New Age URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ai-business-workflows/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-13 Discover Why Redesigning Your Workflows—Not Just Adding AI—Is the Real Competitive Advantage Author: Awung Ngang Website: Success King Marketing Inc. Category: AI, Business Growth, Digital Transformation, ——————————————————————————————————————— Artificial Intelligence is changing business at an unprecedented pace. While many organizations are eager to integrate AI into daily operations, simply adding AI to outdated systems rarely delivers transformational results. The businesses gaining the greatest competitive advantage are redesigning how work gets done from the ground up. Recent discussions by marketing strategist John Jantsch, featuring innovation expert Stephen Wunker, highlight a powerful message: AI should transform workflows—not merely automate existing tasks. This insight is especially valuable for entrepreneurs, digital marketers, consultants, affiliate marketers, and small business owners looking to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving marketplace. Why Traditional Workflows Are Holding Businesses Back Many companies approach AI by replacing one software tool with another. For example: Replacing customer support emails with chatbots Using AI to write marketing copy Automating meeting notes While these improvements save time, they rarely change how the business actually operates. Instead of asking: “How can AI improve this step?” Ask: “Should this entire process be redesigned?” Sometimes a 20-step workflow can become only three smarter steps. That is where real productivity gains happen. The Octopus Organization: A New Way of Working Stephen Wunker introduces the idea of the Octopus Organization. An octopus has multiple arms capable of sensing, learning, and acting independently while remaining coordinated through its nervous system. Modern businesses can operate similarly. Instead of every decision flowing through management, AI enables teams to make faster, better-informed decisions using shared data, standardized processes, and clear governance. The result is: Faster decision-making Greater innovation Better customer experiences Improved collaboration Higher productivity Focus on “Golden Workflows” Rather than trying to automate everything, identify your highest-value workflows. Examples include: Customer acquisition Affiliate marketing campaigns Email marketing funnels Product launches Customer support Content marketing Sales follow-up Lead generation Improving these “golden workflows” creates measurable returns much faster than scattered AI experiments. Avoid the Trap of Endless AI Experiments Many organizations launch dozens—or even hundreds—of disconnected AI projects. Without clear objectives, these experiments consume time and budget without delivering meaningful value. Instead: Define measurable goals. Test one workflow at a time. Measure results. Scale successful systems. Eliminate ineffective projects. Disciplined experimentation produces sustainable growth. The ABC Framework for AI Success One practical approach is the ABC Framework. A — AI-fy Your Existing Processes Begin by integrating AI into current operations where it provides immediate value. Examples include: Content creation Customer service Data analysis Marketing automation Sales forecasting B — Become Excellent at Experimentation Every AI initiative should answer a business question. Measure: Time saved Revenue generated Customer satisfaction Cost reduction Productivity improvements Use data—not assumptions—to guide decisions. C — Create the Future The greatest opportunity lies in redesigning workflows entirely. Ask: Could AI eliminate unnecessary approvals? Can repetitive manual work disappear? Can teams collaborate differently? Can customers receive faster service? Businesses willing to rethink operations will outperform those merely adding AI features. Three Qualities Every AI-Powered Business Needs 1. Analytical Use accurate data to make informed decisions. 2. Agile Adapt quickly as markets, technologies, and customer expectations evolve. 3. Aligned Ensure every team understands company goals and works toward the same objectives. Technology succeeds only when people move together. AI Strengthens Human Collaboration Contrary to popular belief, AI is not about replacing employees. Its greatest strength is helping people work together more effectively. AI can: Deliver the right information instantly Reduce repetitive work Improve communication Accelerate decision-making Increase organizational intelligence When teams collaborate with AI, businesses become more innovative and resilient. How Small Businesses Can Benefit Today Small businesses often have an advantage over larger enterprises because they can adapt more quickly. Business owners can begin by: Automating repetitive administrative tasks Creating AI-assisted marketing campaigns Improving customer support Building automated email sequences Optimizing affiliate marketing content Using AI to analyze customer behavior Incremental improvements can quickly compound into significant competitive advantages. Success King Marketing Inc. Resources Looking to leverage AI and digital tools to grow your business? Explore our collection of affordable digital resources, including: AI and Digital Marketing eBooks Affiliate Marketing Guides Online Business Courses Passive Income Resources Business Growth Toolkits Marketing Templates Visit our Shop to discover practical resources designed to help entrepreneurs, freelancers, marketers, and business owners succeed online. Related Articles Continue learning with these articles on Success King Marketing Inc.: Is AI a Survival Skill for Consultants? What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Marketing How Small Businesses Can Grow Their Own Talent Affiliate Marketing 101 for Beginners The Wealth Genome System 100 Digital Marketing Tips Every Entrepreneur Should Know Recommended eBooks Pair this article with these digital resources available in our marketplace: AI for Entrepreneurs 100 Digital Marketing Tips Success in Business Affiliate Marketing 101 ClickBank The Prosperity Blueprint Mastering Online Business Growth Final Thoughts   Artificial Intelligence is far more than another productivity tool. Its real value comes from helping organizations rethink how work is performed, decisions are made, and teams collaborate. Businesses that redesign workflows—not just automate existing ones—will gain the greatest competitive advantage in the years ahead. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, affiliate marketer, consultant, or growing business, now is the perfect time to identify your most valuable workflows and begin building a smarter, AI-powered future. Source Acknowledgement This article is an original analysis inspired by ideas discussed by John Jantsch in conversation with Stephen Wunker, author of AI and the Octopus Organization, originally featured by Duct Tape Marketing. Readers interested in the complete interview should visit the original source. Suggested Internal Links Link to relevant pages on our website: Home Page Blog Insights Shop AI & Digital Marketing eBooks Affiliate Marketing Resources Business Growth eBooks Manifestation eBooks Passive Income Products Marketing Software Tools Real PPV Traffic Suggested Related Products Make Money Online With ClickBank Affiliate Marketing Review SALEHOO Dropshipping Health & Fitness Lifestyle Amazon Shopping Best Deals Self Help LifeStyle Home & Family --- ## Discover Success King Marketing Turnkey and Unlock Digital Success URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/discover-success-king-marketing-turnkey/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-11 Discover Affordable eBooks, eCourses & Business Resources to Learn, Grow, and Succeed Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com The modern digital economy rewards people who learn quickly and take action. Whether you’re starting your first online business, improving your marketing skills, increasing your income, or investing in personal development, having access to reliable information is one of the smartest investments you can make. At Success King Marketing Inc Turnkey, we’ve created a one-stop marketplace filled with affordable, high-quality digital products designed to help individuals, entrepreneurs, freelancers, students, and business owners achieve more. From practical eBooks to comprehensive online courses, you’ll find instant-access resources that help you learn today and apply tomorrow. Unlock Online Business Success with Info-Products Hub     Why Choose Success King Marketing Inc? Unlike marketplaces that focus on only one niche, Success King Marketing Inc. offers thousands of digital products covering many aspects of business, lifestyle, and personal growth. Our marketplace is built around one mission: Helping people learn faster, grow smarter, and succeed online. 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Explore our growing collection of affordable digital products and start building the knowledge and skills needed to achieve your personal and business goals. 👉 Visit Success King Marketing Inc. today: https://skmarketsinc.com Browse our extensive library of: Business eBooks Make money Online with ClickBank Digital Marketing Guides Wellness Resources Startup Tools Affiliate Marketing SALEHOO Dropshipping Self Help Books Travel Resources Success King Marketing Inc Turnkey Your next breakthrough could be just one download away.   --- ## How to Start a New Business in 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/start-new-business-2026-guide/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-08 Turn Your Business Idea into a Profitable Reality with a Proven Startup Roadmap Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Starting a business has never been more exciting—or more competitive. Thanks to artificial intelligence, digital commerce, automation, and global online marketplaces, entrepreneurs today have access to opportunities that barely existed a few years ago. However, success doesn’t happen by accident. The businesses that thrive are built on clear planning, market research, strategic marketing, and consistent execution. Whether you dream of opening an online store, launching a consulting business, selling digital products, or building the next innovative startup, this guide will help you move confidently from business idea to successful launch. [] Why 2026 Is the Best Time to Start a Business Technology has dramatically lowered the cost of starting a business. Today’s entrepreneurs can: Build professional websites in hours Sell products worldwide Use AI to increase productivity Automate customer service Reach customers through SEO and social media Accept secure online payments The biggest barrier is no longer technology—it’s having a clear strategy. [ ] Step 1: Find the Right Business Idea Every successful business begins by solving a problem. Ask yourself: What skills do I already have? What problems do people frequently experience? What products are growing in demand? Can I improve an existing solution? Look for opportunities where passion, expertise, and market demand intersect. Remember: People don’t buy products. They buy solutions. Step 2: Validate Your Idea Before investing time or money, make sure customers actually want your solution. Research: Competitors Customer reviews Industry trends Online communities Search demand Validation reduces risk and helps you create products customers are willing to pay for. Step 3: Create a Business Plan Your business plan serves as your roadmap. Include: Executive summary Business goals Target audience Products or services Marketing strategy Revenue model Startup costs Financial projections A clear business plan makes decision-making easier as your company grows. Step 4: Choose Your Business Model There are countless ways to build a profitable business. Popular models include: Digital products Online coaching Consulting Affiliate marketing Ecommerce Subscription services SaaS Freelancing Content creation Choose one that matches your expertise and long-term goals. Step 5: Register Your Business Once you’ve chosen your business structure: Register your business name Obtain necessary licenses Open a business bank account Set up bookkeeping Understand local tax requirements Handling these essentials early helps you avoid future legal and financial complications. Step 6: Build Your Online Presence Today’s customers expect businesses to have a professional online presence. Your business should include: Professional website Fast loading pages Mobile-friendly design Clear branding Contact information Blog Social media profiles Your website becomes your digital storefront. Step 7: Develop a Marketing Strategy [ ] Marketing is what transforms a business into a profitable one. Focus on multiple channels including: SEO Create valuable content that answers customer questions. Email Marketing Build an email list from day one. Content Marketing Publish helpful blogs, guides, videos, and tutorials. Social Media Engage with your audience consistently. Paid Advertising Scale faster using strategic advertising campaigns. Step 8: Focus on Customer Experience Happy customers become repeat customers. Deliver: Excellent communication Fast support High-quality products Easy purchasing process Honest business practices Positive experiences generate referrals and long-term loyalty. Step 9: Track Your Business Performance Successful entrepreneurs measure results. Monitor: Website traffic Conversion rates Customer acquisition cost Sales Profit margins Customer retention Data helps you improve every part of your business. Step 10: Continue Learning Business is constantly evolving. Invest in: Books Courses Industry blogs Networking Mentorship AI tools Marketing education The entrepreneurs who keep learning stay ahead of the competition. Common Mistakes New Entrepreneurs Make Avoid these costly mistakes: Waiting for the “perfect” time Skipping market research Ignoring SEO Underpricing products Failing to build an email list Trying to do everything alone Giving up too early Consistency often matters more than perfection. Why This eBook Is Worth Reading How to Start a Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Success goes beyond general advice by providing a structured roadmap that helps entrepreneurs: Validate business ideas Create effective business plans Launch with confidence Build sustainable growth strategies Reduce costly beginner mistakes Understand modern digital business practices Whether you’re launching your first startup or transitioning from an idea to execution, this resource provides practical guidance you can apply immediately. Ready to Launch Your Business? [ ] Every successful company began with someone deciding to take the first step. The difference between successful entrepreneurs and everyone else isn’t having perfect ideas—it’s taking consistent action. If you’re ready to move from dreaming to building, this guide will give you the clarity, confidence, and structure needed to launch your business in 2026 and beyond. 📘 Get the eBook Visit the Success King Marketing Inc. Shop to purchase: How to Start a Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Success Perfect for: First-time entrepreneurs Startup founders Small business owners Online business creators Freelancers Consultants Digital entrepreneurs Internal Linking Suggestions (SuccessKingMarketsInc.com) Link naturally within the article to relevant pages on your website: Shop – Business & Entrepreneurship eBooks Blog – Entrepreneurship Insights 100 Digital Marketing Tips & Guides Website Growth Articles SEO Resources Affiliate Marketing SALEHOO AI Business Articles Business Planning Resources Related Posts Consider linking to these related topics (or existing posts on your site): AI Is a Survival Skill for Consultants What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Digital Marketing Backup Series: How Often Should You Backup Your Website? How SEO Helps Small Businesses Grow Faster Beginner’s Guide to Affiliate Marketing The Best Digital Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses Creating Passive Income with Digital Products Website Optimization Tips for Higher Conversions Call-to-Action Ready to Build the Business You’ve Always Wanted? Stop wondering where to begin and start building with confidence. The How to Start a Business 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Success eBook provides the roadmap you need to move from idea to launch with practical, actionable guidance. 👉 Visit https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop to get your copy and take the first step toward becoming a successful entrepreneur today. Tags; Start a Business, Business Startup, Entrepreneurship, Small Business, Startup Guide, Business Planning, Online Business, Business Growth, Business Success, Success King Marketing --- ## 🚀 Unlock the Blueprint to Wealth: “Business Investment Tips 2026” URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/unlock-the-blueprint-to-wealth-business-investment-tips-2026/ Type: product Modified: 2026-07-07 Master the art of wealth building with “Business Investment Tips Are you ready to stop “guessing” and start growing? In the world of finance, the difference between a massive ROI and a total loss is strategy. We are please to present Business Investment Tips 2026 authored by the renowned Awung Ngang, here is your comprehensive roadmap to navigating the complex world of business acquisitions and equity growth. Whether you are a first-time investor or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to diversify your portfolio, this eBook Unlocks the Blueprint to Wealth. It provides the surgical precision you need to make winning moves. 📈 What’s Inside This Guide? This isn’t just theory—it’s a tactical manual designed for the modern market. Chapter 1: Basics of Business Investing – Lay a rock-solid foundation. Chapter 2: Investment Strategies – Learn how to hedge, scale, and diversify. Chapter 3: Evaluating Businesses – Master the art of the “Deep Dive” before you sign the check. Chapter 4: Investment Planning – Align your capital with your long-term vision. Chapter 5: Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them – Save thousands by learning from others’ pitfalls. Chapter 6: Case Studies & Real-Life Examples – See success in action. Chapter 7: Advanced Investment Techniques – Level up with high-stakes strategies. Action Plan & Resources – Go from reading to doing with our included toolkit. 💡 Why Choose This eBook? Expert Authorship: Written by Awung Ngang, an authority in strategic growth. The eBook “Business Investment Tips 2026” Is carefully writen to suit the purpose. Entrepreneurs seeking strategic resources to Fix or restructure their Small businesses. Beginers who are interested to Start their Businesses Action-Oriented: No fluff. Just actionable steps to build your empire. Proven Results: Focused on modern market trends and timeless financial principles. “Investing in yourself is the best investment you will ever make. It will not only improve your life, it will improve the lives of all those around you.” 🔍 SEO; Business Investment Strategies, How to Invest in Business, Small Business Investing for Beginners, Awung Ngang Books, Success King Marketing Inc, ROI Growth Tips, Financial Freedom, Venture Capital Basics, Business Portfolio Management. #BusinessInvestment #WealthBuilding #Entrepreneurship #FinancialFreedom #SuccessKingMarketing #InvestmentTips #PassiveIncome #StartupGrowth #AwungNgang #BusinessStrategy 🛒 [Add to Cart Now] and start your journey toward becoming a powerhouse investor today! Success King Marketing Inc eBooks Store – Where Leaders Are Made. --- ## How Often to Backup Your WordPress Site: Essential Guide URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/wordpress-website-backup-guide/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-05 A Smart Backup Strategy Can Save Your Website from Hacks, Server Failures, and Costly Data Loss Running a WordPress website or Any other without regular backups is like driving a car without insurance—you may never need it, but when disaster strikes, you’ll wish you had prepared. Whether you operate a business website, an online store, a membership platform, or a personal blog, your website is one of your most valuable digital assets. Unfortunately, websites face numerous threats every day, including: Cyberattacks and malware Plugin conflicts Human error Failed updates Server crashes Hardware failures Accidental file deletion Without a recent backup, recovering your website could be expensive—or impossible. In this guide, you’ll learn: Why website backups are essential How often you should backup your WordPress website The best backup plugins Where to safely store backups Best practices every website owner should follow [] Why Do Website Backups Matter Imagine spending years building: Hundreds of blog posts Product listings Customer databases Sales funnels SEO rankings Email subscriber lists Then overnight… Everything disappears. It happens far more often than most business owners realize. A simple plugin update can break your website. Hackers can delete your files. Hosting companies can suffer catastrophic server failure. Even experienced developers occasionally make mistakes. A recent backup allows you to restore your website quickly with minimal downtime. [] Don’t Depend Solely on Your Hosting Company Many hosting providers advertise “daily backups.” However, those backups may have limitations such as: Limited retention periods Partial backups only Extra fees for restoration Missing media files Missing databases No backup before updates Some hosts overwrite previous backups every day, meaning if malware goes unnoticed for several days, your backup may already be infected. For complete peace of mind, always maintain independent backups. How Often Should You Backup Your WordPress Website? The ideal backup schedule depends on how frequently your website changes. Daily Backups Perfect for: Business websites Company blogs Portfolio websites Membership sites Daily backups provide excellent protection for most organizations. Hourly Backups Recommended for: WooCommerce stores Online marketplaces Booking websites Membership platforms Learning Management Systems If customers place orders every hour, losing an entire day’s transactions could be devastating. Weekly Backups Suitable for: Static websites Small brochure websites Landing pages Personal portfolios If your content rarely changes, weekly backups may be sufficient. Before Every Major Update Always create a manual backup before: Updating WordPress Core Installing new plugins Updating themes Editing PHP files Migrating servers Redesigning your website This gives you a safe restore point if anything goes wrong. [ ] ✅ WordPress database ✅ Themes ✅ Plugins ✅ Uploaded media ✅ WordPress core files ✅ Configuration files ✅ Custom code ✅ SEO settings ✅ WooCommerce orders ✅ User accounts Missing even one component could prevent your website from restoring correctly. Best WordPress Backup Plugins Several reliable plugins make backups simple and automated. 1. UpdraftPlus One of the most popular WordPress backup plugins. Features include: Automatic scheduling Cloud storage One-click restoration Incremental backups Free version available Excellent for beginners and professionals alike. 2. BackWPup A dependable alternative offering: Scheduled backups Database backups Cloud storage integration ZIP archive creation 3. BackupBuddy A premium solution known for: Complete website backups Easy migration Scheduled backups Remote storage Ideal for agencies and business owners. 4. Jetpack VaultPress Backup Developed by Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com. Benefits include: Real-time backups Security scanning One-click restore Off-site storage Excellent for WooCommerce websites. 5. Snapshot Pro A premium solution from WPMU DEV featuring: Automated backups Cloud storage Easy restoration Built-in scheduling [] Where Should You Store Your Backups? Never store your only backup on the same server as your website. Instead, use multiple storage locations such as: Google Drive Dropbox Microsoft OneDrive Amazon S3 Remote FTP servers External hard drives A good rule is the 3-2-1 Backup Strategy: Keep 3 copies of your data Store them on 2 different storage devices Keep 1 copy off-site This dramatically reduces the risk of total data loss. Test Your Backups Regularly A backup is only valuable if it actually works. Many website owners never test their backups until disaster strikes. Instead: Restore backups on a staging site. Verify images load correctly. Check plugins. Test forms. Confirm database integrity. Testing ensures you can recover quickly when needed. More Website Protection Tips Backups work best alongside strong website security. Consider implementing: Two-factor authentication (2FA) Strong administrator passwords Security plugins Firewall protection Malware scanning SSL certificates Automatic updates Limited administrator access Together, these measures greatly reduce your overall risk. My Final Thoughts Backing up your WordPress website isn’t optional—it’s an essential part of responsible website management. The frequency of your backups should reflect how often your content changes. Whether you choose daily, hourly, or weekly backups, the most important thing is consistency. With the right backup plugin, secure cloud storage, and regular testing, you can safeguard your website against unexpected disasters and ensure your business stays online. Remember: It’s far easier to restore a backup than to rebuild a website from scratch. Success King Marketing Inc. Website Designers Re-Define Success First. Get Insights 100 Digital Marketing Tips SEO Optimization Services Business Growth Blog Shop – Digital Marketing eBooks AI & Marketing Insights Small Business Resources Related Links Start A Profital Affiliate Business With SALEHOO Dropshipping Travel Bookings Services; Best Travel Deals Ever Today Get Cheap Organic Real PPV  Traffic For Your Website & Busness Easy Way To Make Money Online With ClickBank Amazon Best Deals Today Author: Awung Ngang; (Quality Assurance Engineer. Author, Content Creater) Website: https://skmarketsinc.com   --- ## What Most Businesses Get Wrong About Marketing (And How to Finally Get It Right) URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/small-business-marketing-strategy/ Type: post Modified: 2026-07-02 Why More Marketing Isn’t the Answer—A Clear Strategy Is the Competitive Advantage Your Business Needs “Small business owner developing a strategic marketing plan.” Marketing has never offered more opportunities than it does today. Businesses have access to social media platforms, email marketing, AI-powered automation, SEO, paid advertising, podcasts, webinars, influencer partnerships, content marketing, video platforms, and countless software tools promising explosive growth. Yet despite all these opportunities, many businesses still struggle to generate consistent leads, attract the right customers, and increase revenue. Why? The problem isn’t a lack of marketing activity. The problem is a lack of marketing strategy. Many entrepreneurs spend months creating content, running advertisements, posting on multiple social media channels, and experimenting with new AI tools—all without first defining where they’re going or how they’ll get there. Without a roadmap, even the hardest work often produces disappointing results. At Success King Marketing Inc., we’ve consistently seen that businesses achieve sustainable growth when they replace random marketing tactics with a focused, customer-centered strategy. Activity Isn’t the Problem—Clarity Is Many business owners believe success comes from doing more. More Facebook posts. Instagram reels. eMails. Advertising. Software. Or more AI tools. Unfortunately, more activity doesn’t automatically produce more customers. In fact, it often creates confusion. Businesses become overwhelmed trying to keep up with every new marketing trend instead of mastering the fundamentals that consistently generate results. Successful marketing begins with answering a few critical questions: Who are we trying to serve? What problem do we solve? Why should customers trust us? What makes our business different? Which marketing channels deserve our attention? Without clear answers, marketing becomes guesswork. Strategy Allows You to Do Less—But Better [] One of the biggest misconceptions in business is that marketing requires constant . In reality, effective strategy eliminates unnecessary work. When your direction is clear, every marketing decision becomes easier. Instead of trying every tactic available, strategic businesses focus on the activities that deliver measurable results. That means spending less time chasing trends and more time building systems that consistently attract ideal customers. Quality almost always outperforms quantity. Know Exactly Who Your Ideal Customer Is One of the fastest ways to improve marketing results is to become incredibly specific about your audience. Trying to market to everyone usually means connecting with no one. Ask yourself: Who benefits most from your services? What challenges keep them awake at night? Where do they search for information? What goals are they trying to achieve? Why would they choose your business over competitors? Just as importantly, define who is not your ideal customer. Businesses grow faster when they stop trying to please everyone. Misalignment Costs More Than You Think Many companies invest heavily in marketing agencies, freelancers, consultants, software subscriptions, and advertising. Yet their messaging remains inconsistent. Why? Because different departments often work independently without sharing one strategic vision. Sales promises one thing. Marketing communicates another. Customer service delivers something different. This inconsistency weakens trust and confuses customers. A documented marketing strategy aligns everyone around the same goals, language, and customer experience. Your Competitive Advantage Comes From Clarity Businesses frequently compete on price because they struggle to explain what truly makes them different. Strategic clarity changes that. When you clearly communicate: Your expertise, Unique process, values, And customer outcomes, you become far more memorable than competitors offering similar products or services. People buy confidence—not confusion. AI Is a Powerful Tool—Not a Marketing Strategy Artificial Intelligence has transformed modern marketing. Businesses can now generate content, automate customer support, analyze data, build websites, write emails, and streamline workflows faster than ever. However, AI cannot replace strategic thinking. Without a clear marketing direction, AI simply helps businesses create more content that lacks focus. Technology should amplify your strategy—not substitute for it. Use AI to improve execution while ensuring that your overall marketing goals remain guided by human insight and customer understanding. Strategy Reduces Stress Across Your Business One overlooked benefit of strategic planning is peace of mind. Business owners often feel overwhelmed because every marketing decision feels urgent. Should you launch another campaign? Join another social platform? Or  Buy another AI subscription? With a documented strategy, priorities become much clearer. Instead of reacting to every new opportunity, your team can confidently focus on what supports long-term growth. Build Strategy Together, Execute Together Many organizations make the mistake of leaving strategy solely to executives or outside consultants. The strongest businesses involve the people responsible for execution. When marketing teams, sales professionals, customer support, and leadership collaborate during planning, they develop: shared goals, consistent messaging, stronger accountability, faster execution, higher employee engagement. Alignment creates momentum. Turn Strategy Into Action With a 90-Day Roadmap A great strategy is only valuable when it leads to action. Rather than creating lengthy documents that sit on shelves, successful businesses translate strategy into practical goals. A simple 90-day marketing roadmap should include: Three primary business objectives Key marketing campaigns Customer acquisition goals Content calendar SEO priorities Lead generation activities Performance metrics (KPIs) Weekly review meetings Breaking large goals into manageable quarterly actions makes execution easier and measurable. Final Thoughts Marketing success doesn’t come from using every available tool. It comes from using the right tools with the right strategy. Businesses that invest time in defining their audience, clarifying their message, aligning their teams, and executing a focused marketing plan consistently outperform those that rely on random tactics. As technology—including AI—continues to evolve, strategic thinking will become even more valuable. The businesses that thrive won’t necessarily be the busiest; they’ll be the ones with the clearest direction. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe that sustainable growth starts with a well-defined strategy. Whether you’re building your first business or scaling an established brand, taking time to create a focused marketing plan can help you attract better customers, strengthen your brand, and achieve measurable long-term success. Recommended Internal Links Strengthen your SEO by linking naturally to these pages on Success King Marketing Inc.: AI for Consultants SaleHoo Review: The Shortcut to Winning Products, Trusted Suppliers & Real Online Profits Healthy Eating Habits (Business Wellness & Productivity) Stop Chasing Everything: The Hidden Power of Contentment Affiliate Marketing Guides Digital Marketing Resources Online Business Growth Articles Blog Insights Archive Shop – Digital Marketing eBooks Recommended eBooks From Our Shop Create a “Recommended Resources” section featuring your digital products, such as: Affiliate Marketing Success Guide Digital Marketing Mastery eBook AI for Entrepreneurs Online Business Startup Guide SEO Fundamentals for Small Businesses Business Growth Blueprint Business Success Toolkit External Resource For additional marketing insights, explore the work of John Jantsch, marketing strategist, speaker, and bestselling author of Duct Tape Marketing and The Referral Engine. His strategic approach emphasizes building repeatable marketing systems that create sustainable business growth.   Marketing Strategy for Small Businesses, small business marketing, marketing strategy business growth strategy digital marketing planning customer targeting brand positioning AI marketing content marketing business marketing tips strategic marketing   Author: Awung Ngang Published by: Success King Marketing Inc. Website: https://skmarketsinc.com [] --- ## How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior! URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/how-to-stay-kind-without-losing-yourself-to-toxic-behavior/ Type: product Modified: 2026-06-28 EMOTIONAL WELLNESS: How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior Description: Discover how to maintain your compassion and integrity while setting firm boundaries with toxic influences. This practical, heart-centered guide gives you actionable strategies to protect your well-being, nurture healthier relationships, and cultivate lasting resilience. Key Benefits: Learn to identify and respond to toxic behaviors without losing your kindness. Master boundary-setting and assertive communication that honors your needs. Build a sustainable kindness practice that protects your mental health. Decide when to repair a relationship and when to walk away—with grace and clarity. Includes reflection prompts, exercises, and a customizable “Kindness Ledger” workbook. What’s Inside: 12,000–18,000 words of guidance, stories, and templates 10–12 chapters plus practical worksheets Real-life scripts for tough conversations A lightweight, printable workbook to reinforce daily practice Who Should Read This: Anyone who wants to stay kind in the face of toxicity People navigating difficult friendships, family dynamics, or workplace relationships Readers seeking practical tools for boundaries, self-care, and resilience Format and Delivery: Available as an eBook (PDF, MOBI, EPUB), with a printable workbook Includes a companion reflection journal (digital download) Suitable for self-help enthusiasts, coaching clients, and professionals What You’ll Get: A publish-ready manuscript ready for conversion to multiple formats Optimized for search engines with clear, keyword-rich headings and metadata Supportive, non-judgmental tone that respects readers’ experiences Why This Book Appeals to Your Audience: It gives readers concrete, reproducible steps to protect their kindness without sacrificing their well-being It blends personal storytelling with practical frameworks, making complex emotional work feel doable It offers tools readers can return to over and over, cultivating healthier relationships over time Call to Action: Grab your copy today and start building boundaries that honor both your heart and your health. Your future self—and the people who matter to you—will thank you. --- ## How Small Businesses Can Grow Their Own Talent URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/grow-small-business-talent/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-27 Build a Skilled, Loyal, and Future-Ready Workforce Without Breaking Your Budget Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Stop Searching for the Perfect Employee—Start Developing One Every growing business eventually faces the same challenge: finding skilled employees. Competition for experienced professionals continues to increase, salaries keep rising, and small businesses often struggle to compete with larger organizations that can offer higher pay and more attractive benefits. But successful entrepreneurs know a secret. Instead of endlessly searching for “perfect” employees, they invest in creating them. Growing talent internally is one of the smartest long-term strategies a business can adopt. Employees who learn and grow within your company often become more productive, more loyal, and more aligned with your business goals than those hired solely for their experience. If you own a small business, now is the perfect time to build a culture where people don’t just work—they develop. [ ] Why Growing Talent Matters Hiring experienced professionals is expensive. Beyond recruitment costs, businesses spend thousands on onboarding, training, lost productivity, and employee turnover. Developing existing employees helps businesses: Reduce hiring costs Increase employee retention Improve productivity Build stronger company culture Prepare future leaders Improve customer service Encourage innovation Employees who see opportunities for personal growth are also more motivated to stay with a company. Instead of constantly replacing staff, you strengthen the team you already have. 1. Hire for Potential, Not Just Experience Experience is valuable—but attitude is priceless. Many successful business owners prioritize qualities like: Curiosity Reliability Problem-solving ability Communication skills Adaptability Positive attitude Technical skills can often be taught much faster than character. Someone eager to learn can become one of your strongest employees. 2. Create a Learning Culture Learning shouldn’t stop after onboarding. Successful businesses encourage continuous development through: Weekly coaching sessions Online courses Industry webinars Team workshops Cross-training Reading business books Skill-sharing meetings When learning becomes part of everyday work, your entire organization improves together. [ Talent Aquisition and Team Building ] 3. Encourage Mentorship One experienced employee can dramatically accelerate another employee’s growth. Mentorship creates: Faster onboarding Better communication Increased confidence Stronger teamwork Better knowledge transfer Pair experienced team members with newer employees whenever possible. Everyone benefits. 4. Give Employees Room to Grow People develop through responsibility—not comfort. Allow employees to: Lead small projects Present ideas Solve customer problems Manage deadlines Learn new software Participate in business planning Even small responsibilities build confidence and leadership skills over time. 5. Invest in Affordable Training Training doesn’t need a massive budget. Many valuable resources are available online through: Free webinars YouTube educational channels Industry blogs Business podcasts Low-cost online learning platforms Even one hour of learning each week can create significant improvements over a year. 6. Build Career Paths Employees stay longer when they know where they’re headed. Discuss: Future responsibilities Promotion opportunities New certifications Leadership goals Personal development plans When employees can see a future inside your business, they’re less likely to look elsewhere. 7. Celebrate Progress Recognition fuels motivation. Celebrate: Completed training New certifications Excellent customer feedback Project milestones Team achievements Innovative ideas Recognition doesn’t always require financial rewards. Simple appreciation often has a lasting impact. 8. Encourage Cross-Training Cross-training creates a more flexible workforce. Employees gain: New perspectives Better teamwork Increased confidence Greater problem-solving skills Your business also becomes more resilient when multiple employees can perform essential tasks. 9. Lead by Example Business owners set the tone. Continue learning yourself. Read books. Attend workshops. Learn new technologies. Improve leadership skills. Employees naturally follow leaders who demonstrate a commitment to growth. The Long-Term Benefits Businesses that develop talent internally often experience: Lower turnover Higher customer satisfaction Greater innovation Stronger leadership pipeline Improved workplace culture Increased profitability The companies that thrive over the long term are rarely those with the biggest hiring budgets. They’re the ones that consistently invest in people. [ success, symbolizing growth, leadership, and employee development ] Final Thoughts Talent isn’t always found—it is often developed. Every employee has the potential to become a valuable contributor when given the right guidance, training, and opportunities. By building a culture of learning, mentorship, and continuous improvement, small businesses can create stronger teams, reduce hiring costs, and position themselves for sustainable growth. Rather than competing with larger companies for experienced professionals, focus on becoming the company where talented people are created. The investment you make in your employees today will become one of your greatest competitive advantages tomorrow. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe that growing a successful business starts with growing the people behind it. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, consultant, or small business owner, investing in talent development is an investment in your future success.   employee development, small business growth, talent management, workforce development, leadership development, employee retention, business training, small business leadership Important Links; Our Blog Insights Articles Why AI Is Becoming An Important Skills for Consultants Online Business Growth Affiliate Marketing guides with ClickBank Digital Marketing SaleHoo Review resources Content Marketing 100 Digital Marketing Tips 2026 Entrepreneurship Why Most People Fail to Make Money Online Recommended Shop & eBooks Include a “Recommended Resources” section featuring: eBusiness eMarketing eBooks Affiliate Marketing Guides Business Investing Resources AI Productivity Guides Self Help Success eBooks Start A Small Business Strategy Resources   --- ## “Struggling with boundaries? Discover ‘Balancing Kindness and Boundaries Guide” URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/balancing-kindness-and-boundaries-parents-professionals/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.Struggling to balance kindness with boundaries in your relationships? 🤔 Discover ‘Balancing Kindness and Boundaries’, the essential guide for parents and professionals alike! This transformative resource teaches you practical strategies to nurture loving relationships while maintaining respect and assertiveness. 🌟 With empathy at its core, it helps you foster understanding in every interaction. Join countless others who have redefined their approach to connections! 👉  Direct Access Download Link:Balancing Kindness and Boundaries 👉 Visit skmarketsinc.com to get your copy and bring harmony into your world today! #Boundaries #Kindness #HealthyRelationships #ParentingTips #Assertiveness #Empathy #RelationshipGoals #PersonalGrowth #RespectfulCommunication #NurturingConnections #BalancingKindness #EmotionalIntelligence #skmarketsinc #TransformYourRelationships #MindfulParenting --- ## “✈️ Struggling with travel plans? SK Markets simplifies it all!” URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/struggling-with-travel-plans-sk-markets-simplifies-it-all/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.🌍 Dreaming of your next adventure but feeling overwhelmed by travel bookings? With SK Markets Inc, planning your getaway is simple and cost-effective! ✈️ Enjoy unbeatable deals on flights, hotels, rentals, and activities that make travel planning a breeze. Explore the world with confidence, knowing you’re getting the best value for your money. Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have transformed their trips! 👇 Ready to create unforgettable memories? Visit SK Markets Inc Booking.com Services and book your dream getaway today! #TravelPlanning #SKMarkets #TravelDeals #AdventureAwaits #Wanderlust #ExploreTheWorld #BookYourTrip #TravelMadeEasy #VacationPlanning #TravelSavings #DreamGetaway #TravelWithConfidence #TravelSmart #BudgetTravel #TravelInspiration Get Access Here --- ## Exploy Best eBooks eCourses and Info-Products for Success URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/exploy-best-ebooks-ecourses-and-info-products-for-success/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Explore Best eBooks eCourses Online and info-products at Success King Marketing Inc. Enhance your skills and achieve your goals today. Source: Exploy Best eBooks eCourses and Info-Products for Success --- ## Real PPV Web-Traffic – Success King Marketing Inc URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/real-ppv-web-traffic-success-king-marketing-inc/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Boost your campaign with Real PPV Traffic 🚀 Targeted visitors that convert. 100% real human traffic, niche & location targeting. Source: Real PPV Web-Traffic – Success King Marketing Inc --- ## 🚀 Why Most People Struggle to Earn Money Online URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-most-people-struggle-to-earn-money-online/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Struggling to make money online? Discover how SKMarkets Inc.’s all-in-one digital platform helps beginners and entrepreneurs build success. Source: 🚀 Why Most People Struggle to Earn Money Online – Success King Marketing Inc --- ## 💰 SaleHoo Review:Trusted Suppliers & Real Online Profits URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/salehoo-review-trusted-suppliers-real-online-profits-2/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Discover SaleHoo reviews, trusted suppliers, and real strategies to stop guessing what to sell and build a scalable, profitable e-commerce. Source: 💰 SaleHoo Review:Trusted Suppliers & Real Online Profits – Success King Marketing Inc --- ## Affodable Travel Bookings – Success King Marketing Inc URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/affodable-travel-bookings-success-king-marketing-inc/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-26 Book Your Dream Trip Today! ✈️ Discover cheap flights, hotels & holiday packages. Easy booking, instant confirmation & unbeatable deals! Start Your Journey Today! Don’t wait—grab the best travel deals and make your dream trip a reality! Don’t wait—grab unbeatable travel deals and make your dream trip real. Affordable, easy, fast bookings for everyone Source: Travel Bookings – Success King Marketing Inc   --- ## 💰 SaleHoo Review:Trusted Suppliers & Real Online Profits URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/salehoo-review-trusted-suppliers-real-online-profits/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-24 Stop Guessing What to Sell — Start Building a Scalable E-Commerce Business Today ⚠️ The Truth About Starting an Online Business Most people fail in e-commerce for one reason: They guess. Guessing what products will sell Guessing which suppliers to trust Guessing how to scale And guess what? That guessing costs time, money, and motivation. 👉 That’s exactly what SaleHoo eliminates. https://www.salehoo.com/by:skminc67 🧠 What Makes SaleHoo So Powerful? SaleHoo isn’t just another tool—it’s your unfair advantage. You get: 🔍 A database of 8,000+ verified suppliers 📦 Over 2.5 million products ready to sell 📊 Real-time market data (so you don’t gamble) [ SaleHoo Sales Dashboard ] 🚀 Why Smart Entrepreneurs Use SaleHoo 🔥 Find Products That Actually Sell No more trial and error. You’re working with proven demand. 🛡️ Avoid Costly Supplier Mistakes One bad supplier can destroy your business. SaleHoo filters them out. ⚡ Launch FAST You can go from idea → store → live products in hours. 📈 Scale Like a Pro Dropshipping → Wholesale → Private Label SaleHoo grows with you. 💡 Imagine This… You wake up… Check your dashboard… And see sales coming in from products you didn’t have to guess. That’s the power of data-driven e-commerce. 👉 Start here: https://www.salehoo.com/by:skminc67 🧲 Who Should Jump In Immediately? Beginners who don’t want to waste months figuring things out Side hustlers ready to build real income Entrepreneurs tired of failing products Anyone serious about online income 📊 The Bottom Line SaleHoo doesn’t just help you start… It helps you win faster. And in today’s competitive market, speed + accuracy = profit. 🚀 Take Action Now 👉 Click here to access 💰 salehoo trusted suppliers Profits Review; https://www.salehoo.com/by:skminc67   ⚡ Final Word You can keep guessing… Or you can start building with clarity. The choice is yours. [] --- ## Why AI Is Becoming a Survival Skill for Consultants URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/ai-for-consultants-survival-skill/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-23 Adapt or Fall Behind: The New Reality of Consulting in the Age of AI Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com 📌 Introduction Consulting has always been a high-stakes profession built on expertise, insight, and the ability to solve complex problems. But today, a seismic shift is underway. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a “nice-to-have” tool—it’s rapidly becoming a core survival skill for consultants across industries. The question is no longer “Should I use AI?” but rather “How fast can I integrate it into my workflow before I fall behind?” 🚀 The Rise of AI in Consulting AI technologies—from predictive analytics to natural language processing—are redefining how consultants deliver value. Tools powered by AI can now: Analyze massive datasets in seconds Generate reports and insights instantly Automate repetitive workflows Enhance decision-making with predictive modeling Consultants who rely solely on traditional methods are increasingly outpaced by those leveraging AI for speed and precision. External Resource: Learn more about AI trends at https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/quantumblack/our-insights ⚠️ Why AI Is No Longer Optional 1. Clients Expect Faster Results Modern clients demand rapid insights and actionable strategies. AI enables consultants to deliver high-quality outputs in a fraction of the time. 2. Competitive Pressure Is Increasing Consultants using AI tools can outperform others by offering deeper insights and more efficient execution. 3. Data Is Growing Exponentially Manual analysis simply cannot keep up with today’s data volume. AI fills that gap with precision and scalability. 💡 How AI Transforms Consulting Workflows AI doesn’t replace consultants—it augments their capabilities. 🔍 Research & Data Analysis AI tools can scan thousands of documents, market reports, and datasets instantly, identifying patterns that humans might miss. ✍️ Content & Reporting From generating presentations to drafting client reports, AI significantly reduces time spent on documentation. 📊 Strategy Development AI-powered analytics provide predictive insights, helping consultants make smarter, data-driven recommendations. 🧠 Key AI Skills Every Consultant Needs To stay relevant, consultants should focus on developing these competencies: Prompt Engineering: Communicating effectively with AI tools Data Interpretation: Understanding AI-generated insights Tool Integration: Using platforms like automation software and analytics tools Critical Thinking: Validating AI outputs and applying human judgment  Data Consulting AI Performance 🔗 Internal Resources for Growth Explore more insights on our platform: 👉 https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/blog-insights 👉 https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/product/how-to-start-a-new-business-2026-a-step-by-step-guide/ 👉 https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/product/the-ultimate-guide-to-thriving-in-todays-market/ 🔥 The Risks of Ignoring AI Failing to adopt AI doesn’t just slow you down—it can make you obsolete. Consultants who resist AI may face: Reduced client demand Lower productivity Inability to compete with tech-savvy peers Missed opportunities for innovation In contrast, those who embrace AI position themselves as forward-thinking leaders in their field. 🌍 Real-World Example Top consulting firms are already integrating AI into their operations: Automating client onboarding processes Using AI dashboards for real-time insights Enhancing customer experience through personalization This trend is not slowing down—it’s accelerating. 📈 Action Steps to Stay Ahead If you’re serious about staying competitive, start here: Adopt AI Tools Today – Begin with accessible platforms like ChatGPT or analytics tools Invest in Learning – Take courses on AI and data analysis Experiment Constantly – Test AI in different aspects of your workflow Combine AI with Human Insight – Use AI as a partner, not a replacement 🧩 The Future of Consulting AI is not eliminating consultants—it’s redefining what it means to be one. The consultants of tomorrow will be: Tech-enabled Data-driven Highly efficient Strategically focused Those who adapt will thrive. Those who don’t may struggle to remain relevant. 📝 Conclusion AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a present-day necessity. For consultants, it represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The real competitive advantage lies not in avoiding AI, but in mastering it. If you want to future-proof your consulting career, the time to act is now. 🔗 Related Posts “Mastering The Art Of Investing; A Comprehensive Guide 2026” “Top Digital Marketing Strategies for 2026” “Seo Services: The Complete Guide 2026” “How To Make Money Online With ClickBank” [ Business Strategy Meeting AI Centr ] Ready to scale your consulting business with AI? Visit 👉 https://skmarketsinc.com and explore powerful strategies to stay ahead. --- ## 🚀 Why Most People Struggle to Earn Money Online URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-most-people-struggle-to-make-money-online/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-22 The Smart Way to Build a Profitable Digital Income Stream Without Guesswork By Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com 🌟 Introduction: The Digital Goldmine Most People Miss Passive income Financial Growth What if the reason you’re not making money online isn’t lack of effort—but lack of the right system? Think of the online world like a goldmine. Some people strike gold quickly, while others dig endlessly without results. The difference? Tools, guidance, and strategy. In this article, you’ll discover how SKMarkets Inc.’s OneStop Digital Platform gives you everything you need to succeed online—whether you’re just starting out or scaling your digital business. 💡 Why Most People Struggle to Make Money Online Ever feel like you’re trying everything—but nothing works? The truth is, many beginners jump from one method to another without a clear roadmap. According to industry data, over 70% of new online entrepreneurs fail within their first year due to lack of structure and guidance. As entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk says, “Skills are cheap. Passion is priceless—but strategy wins.” 👉 Practical Tip: Stop chasing random opportunities. Focus on platforms that provide structured systems and proven resources. 🧰 The Power of an All-in-One Digital Platform Here’s where SKMarkets Inc. changes the game. Instead of juggling multiple tools, subscriptions, and scattered resources, the OneStop Digital Platform brings everything under one roof—eBooks, eCourses, downloads, and marketing tools. Research shows that businesses using integrated platforms increase productivity by up to 30%. As tech innovator Steve Jobs once said, “Simple can be harder than complex—but it’s worth it.” 👉 Practical Tip: Use platforms that combine learning and execution tools to save time and boost efficiency. 📚 Learn, Apply, and Earn—All in One Place Knowledge alone doesn’t pay—you need application. SKMarkets Inc. offers high-quality eBooks, eCourses, and information products designed to help you take action immediately. Whether you’re learning affiliate marketing, content creation, or digital sales, the platform bridges the gap between theory and practice. Studies show that people who apply what they learn are 3x more likely to succeed financially online. Motivational speaker Tony Robbins puts it best: “Knowledge is not power. It’s potential power. Execution is everything.” 👉 Practical Tip: Choose one course or resource and implement it fully before moving on. 📈 Build a Scalable Online Income System Making money online isn’t just about quick wins—it’s about building systems. With the right tools and insights, you can create income streams that grow over time. From digital products to affiliate marketing, scalability is key. According to financial reports, scalable online businesses can increase revenue by over 50% annually when optimized correctly. As investor Warren Buffett says, “If you don’t find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die.” 👉 Practical Tip: Focus on building assets (like digital products or content) that generate long-term income. 🌐 Make Smarter Decisions with Blog Insights Success leaves clues—and SKMarkets Inc. helps you find them. Through blog insights and expert content, you gain the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Data-driven entrepreneurs are twice as likely to achieve consistent growth compared to those relying on guesswork. Marketing expert Neil Patel states, “Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion.” 👉 Practical Tip: Regularly read and apply insights from trusted platforms to stay ahead of trends. 🔗 Internal Links Start your journey: https://skmarketsinc.com Learn digital strategies: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/digital-marketing-guide Explore business growth tips: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/online-income-strategies 📚 Related Posts “Top 5 Ways to Make Money Online in 2026” “Beginner’s Guide to Digital Entrepreneurship” “How to Build Passive Income Streams That Last” 🧾 Conclusion: Your Online Success Starts Here Making money online doesn’t have to feel confusing, overwhelming, or impossible. With the right platform, tools, and guidance, you can turn your efforts into real, sustainable income. SKMarkets Inc. provides the structure, resources, and insights you need to succeed—no matter where you’re starting from. So here’s the truth: success online isn’t about luck—it’s about leverage. Take the first step, stay consistent, and build something that works for you—even while you sleep. 🎬 Image / Animation Placeholder [ Start Building A New Business Today ] --- ## 🚀 SaleHoo: The Ultimate Dropshipping Business Review URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/salehoo-dropshipping-platform-review/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-22 Build a Profitable E-Commerce Store Faster with Verified Suppliers, Winning Products, and Automation   Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com [ SaleHoo Sales Dashboard Trending Products ] 💡 Introduction Starting an online business can feel overwhelming—finding the right products, avoiding unreliable suppliers, and figuring out what actually sells. That’s where SaleHoo changes the game. Instead of guessing your way through e-commerce, SaleHoo gives you a proven system to source smarter, sell faster, and scale confidently. 👉 Get Started with SaleHoo Here: https://www.salehoo.com/by:skminc67 🧰 What Is SaleHoo? SaleHoo is a powerful all-in-one platform designed for entrepreneurs who want to launch or grow a profitable online store without the usual risks. With access to: ✔ 8,000+ pre-vetted suppliers ✔ 2.5 million+ products ✔ Real-time market research tools You get everything needed to build a successful e-commerce business from scratch. 🖼️ Platform Interface Preview [Image Placeholder: SaleHoo dashboard showing product research tools and supplier directory] 🚀 Why SaleHoo Stands Out 1. ✅ Verified Suppliers = Zero Guesswork Avoid scams and unreliable vendors. SaleHoo connects you only with trusted, pre-screened suppliers. 2. ⏱️ Launch Faster with One-Click Import Quickly add products to your store without manual work. Perfect for: Shopify users Dropshippers Beginners 3. 📈 Discover Winning Products Early Use built-in research tools to find trending, high-demand products before your competitors. 4. 🔄 Automated Inventory Sync No more overselling or stock issues. Everything updates in real-time. 5. 🎓 Step-by-Step Training Included Whether you’re new or experienced, SaleHoo provides: Tutorials Guides Expert support [ SaleHoo Trending Products ] 💰 Who Is SaleHoo Best For? SaleHoo is perfect for: Beginners starting their first online store Dropshippers looking for reliable suppliers Entrepreneurs scaling Shopify stores Anyone wanting to build a private label brand 📊 Key Benefits at a Glance 🚀 Launch your store in minutes 🔒 Reduce risk with verified suppliers 📈 Increase profits with trending products 🔄 Automate operations and inventory 🤝 Access a community of 137,000+ entrepreneurs 🔗 Start Your E-Commerce Journey Today If you’re serious about building an online business, SaleHoo removes the biggest obstacles and gives you a clear path forward. 👉 Click here to get started now: https://www.salehoo.com/by:skminc67 🔗 Internal Links (For Your Website) Learn Digital Marketing Basics: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/digital-marketing-guide Best Traffic Strategies: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/traffic-generation-tips Affiliate Marketing for Beginners: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/affiliate-marketing-guide 🌍 External Resources ClickBank Platform: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/clickbank E-commerce Trends Insights: https://www.statista.com 📚 Related Posts “How to Start a Profitable Dropshipping Business in 2026” “Top 10 Digital Products to Sell Online” “Beginner’s Guide to Passive Income Online” 🏁 Final Thoughts Success in e-commerce isn’t about luck—it’s about using the right tools. SaleHoo gives you: The data to make smart decisions The suppliers to avoid costly mistakes The systems to scale efficiently 👉 Don’t wait—start building your online business today: https://www.salehoo.com/by:skminc67 [ SaleHoo Dropshipping Services ] --- ## 🚨 Stop Wasting Time on Failed Guides — Discover a Smarter Path to Digital Success URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/digital-marketing-resources-hub/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-18 Why the right resources?—not more effort—are the key to winning online [ https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Download-How-to-Guides.mp4 ] 🚨 Tired of wasting time on failed “how-to” guides? Get real results with Success King Marketing! Why the right resources?—not more effort—are the key to winning online Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Introduction If you’ve spent hours—maybe even weeks—jumping from one “how-to” guide to another, only to see little or no results, you’re not alone. The internet is flooded with outdated strategies, generic advice, and overhyped promises that rarely deliver. The truth? Success in today’s digital landscape doesn’t come from consuming more content—it comes from using the right content. That’s exactly where Success King Marketing Inc. steps in. The Problem with Most Online Guides Most free guides fail for three simple reasons: They lack actionable, real-world strategies They are outdated or overly generic They don’t provide a structured path to execution This leads to confusion, wasted time, and missed opportunities—especially for beginners trying to build something meaningful online. A Smarter Solution: A Curated Digital Marketing Hub At Success King Marketing Inc., the focus is simple: quality over noise. Instead of endless searching, you gain access to a curated library of high-impact digital resources, including: 📘 Premium eBooks on business and self-development 📊 Advanced SEO and traffic generation guides 💻 E-marketing tools designed for real conversions 📈 Resources covering investing, online income, and growth strategies These materials are sourced from trusted platforms like Amazon and ClickBank—ensuring credibility and proven value. Why This Approach Works 1. Save Time, Focus Better No more trial-and-error with unreliable content. Everything is pre-selected for effectiveness. 2. Learn What Actually Converts The resources emphasize practical implementation, not just theory. 3. Build Real Online Assets From lead generation to monetization, you’re guided toward building sustainable digital income streams. Real Results, Real Impact Thousands of users have already leveraged this resource hub to: Double their leads Launch profitable online projects Improve their digital marketing skills Create consistent income streams The difference isn’t luck—it’s access to the right knowledge. How to Get Started Getting started is straightforward: 👉 Visit: https://skmarketsinc.com 👉 Browse the curated resource library 👉 Download your first high-impact guide 👉 Apply what you learn immediately Consistency + the right tools = measurable results. [ Get Outstanding eBooks Here ] Internal Links (Suggested) Beginner’s Guide to Digital Marketing Success How to Generate Leads Without Paid Ads Top 10 Digital Products That Sell in 2026 External Resources Amazon Digital Learning Hub ClickBank Marketplace for Digital Products Related Posts “Why Most Online Businesses Fail (And How to Avoid It)” “The Beginner’s Blueprint to Passive Income Online” “SEO Strategies That Still Work in 2026” Conclusion Stop wasting time chasing ineffective strategies. The digital world rewards those who act with clarity, precision, and the right tools. Success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what works. 💡 Your next breakthrough could be one resource away. 👉 Start now: https://skmarketsinc.com [ 🚨 Stop wasting time on failed guides — discover Success King Marketing! ] [Insert Image: Digital product library / eBooks display] [Insert Image: Entrepreneur working remotely with laptop] #SuccessKingMarketing #DigitalMarketing #SEOGuides #BusinessGrowth #MarketingTools #Ebooks #LeadGeneration #OnlineSuccess #InvestingTips #MarketingStrategies #EntrepreneurLife #ContentCreation #SKMarkets #TimeManagement #ProfitableProjects --- ## 🚀 Struggling to Earn Online? Unlock Success with SKMarkets Inc! URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/%f0%9f%9a%80-struggling-to-earn-online-unlock-success-with-skmarkets-inc/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-18 The Smart Way to Build a Profitable Digital Income Stream Without Guesswork By Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com [ “🚀 Struggling to earn online? Unlock success with SK Markets!” ] Introduction: The Digital Goldmine Most People Miss What if the reason you’re not making money online isn’t lack of effort—but lack of the right system? Think of the online world like a goldmine. Some people strike gold quickly, while others dig endlessly without results. The difference? Tools, guidance, and strategy. In this article, you’ll discover how SKMarkets Inc.’s OneStop Digital Platform gives you everything you need to succeed online—whether you’re just starting out or scaling your digital business. 💡 Why Most People Struggle to Make Money Online Ever feel like you’re trying everything—but nothing works? The truth is, many beginners jump from one method to another without a clear roadmap. According to industry data, over 70% of new online entrepreneurs fail within their first year due to lack of structure and guidance. As entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk says, “Skills are cheap. Passion is priceless—but strategy wins.” 👉 Practical Tip: Stop chasing random opportunities. Focus on platforms that provide structured systems and proven resources. 🧰 The Power of an All-in-One Digital Platform Here’s where SKMarkets Inc. changes the game. Instead of juggling multiple tools, subscriptions, and scattered resources, the OneStop Digital Platform brings everything under one roof—eBooks, eCourses, downloads, and marketing tools. Research shows that businesses using integrated platforms increase productivity by up to 30%. As tech innovator Steve Jobs once said, “Simple can be harder than complex—but it’s worth it.” 👉 Practical Tip: Use platforms that combine learning and execution tools to save time and boost efficiency. 📚 Learn, Apply, and Earn—All in One Place Knowledge alone doesn’t pay—you need application. SKMarkets Inc. offers high-quality eBooks, eCourses, and information products designed to help you take action immediately. Whether you’re learning affiliate marketing, content creation, or digital sales, the platform bridges the gap between theory and practice. Studies show that people who apply what they learn are 3x more likely to succeed financially online. Motivational speaker Tony Robbins puts it best: “Knowledge is not power. It’s potential power. Execution is everything.” 👉 Practical Tip: Choose one course or resource and implement it fully before moving on. 📈 Build a Scalable Online Income System Making money online isn’t just about quick wins—it’s about building systems. With the right tools and insights, you can create income streams that grow over time. From digital products to affiliate marketing, scalability is key. According to financial reports, scalable online businesses can increase revenue by over 50% annually when optimized correctly. As investor Warren Buffett says, “If you don’t find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die.” 👉 Practical Tip: Focus on building assets (like digital products or content) that generate long-term income. 🌐 Make Smarter Decisions with Blog Insights Success leaves clues—and SKMarkets Inc. helps you find them. Through blog insights and expert content, you gain the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Data-driven entrepreneurs are twice as likely to achieve consistent growth compared to those relying on guesswork. Marketing expert Neil Patel states, “Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion.” 👉 Practical Tip: Regularly read and apply insights from trusted platforms to stay ahead of trends. 🔗 Internal Links Start your journey: https://skmarketsinc.com Learn digital strategies: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/digital-marketing-guide Explore business growth tips: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/online-income-strategies 📚 Related Posts “Top 5 Ways to Make Money Online in 2026” “Beginner’s Guide to Digital Entrepreneurship” “How to Build Passive Income Streams That Last With ClickBank” 🧾 Conclusion: Your Online Success Starts Here Making money online doesn’t have to feel confusing, overwhelming, or impossible. With the right platform, tools, and guidance, you can turn your efforts into real, sustainable income. SKMarkets Inc. provides the structure, resources, and insights you need to succeed—no matter where you’re starting from. So here’s the truth: success online isn’t about luck—it’s about leverage. Take the first step, stay consistent, and build something that works for you—even while you sleep. [ Get Access to the Best eBooks Store online ”] --- ## Real PPV Web-Traffic URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/real-ppv-traffic-services/ Type: page Modified: 2026-06-15 Upgrade to a smarter solution that delivers real visitors, real engagement, and real results. 🚀 100% Real Human Traffic 🎯 Advanced Targeting by Niche & Location 💡 Simple Integration with Full Tracking 📈 Boost Conversions, Engagement & Revenue Start driving traffic that truly counts — and watch your campaigns perform like never before. Boost Your Campaign with Real PPV Traffic Targeted Visitors That Convert. Looking to scale your online presence and maximize your marketing results? Our real PPV (pay-per-view) traffic service is designed to deliver high-quality, targeted visitors directly to your website, landing pages, or offers. Whether you’re promoting affiliate products, eCommerce stores, SaaS platforms, or lead generation funnels, we help you reach the right audience at the right time. Unlike low-quality traffic sources that rely on bots or click farms, our solution provides 100% real human traffic. Every visitor is authentic, meaning you get genuine engagement, improved user behavior metrics, and stronger campaign performance. This translates into higher conversion rates, better ROI, and more revenue growth for your business.Unlike low-quality traffic sources that rely on bots or click farms, our solution provides 100% real human traffic. Every visitor is authentic, meaning you get genuine engagement, improved user behavior metrics, and stronger campaign performance. This translates into higher conversion rates, better ROI, and more revenue growth for your business. Our platform is built with simplicity and performance in mind. You can easily integrate and track your campaigns, monitor results in real-time, and optimize for better outcomes. With transparent analytics and user-friendly tools, you stay in full control of your traffic strategy. Stop wasting money on ineffective ads and unreliable traffic sources. We understand that targeting is everything in digital marketing. That’s why our PPV traffic is carefully segmented by niche, interest, and geographic location. Whether you want to reach users in specific countries, industries, or demographics, we ensure your campaigns connect with people who are most likely to take action. Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!Ready to Drive Real Traffic to Your Campaigns? Start generating high-quality PPV traffic and watch your conversions soar! Real PPV Traffic --- ## Explore Amazon Today Deals — Top Limited-Time Offers 🛍️ URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/explore-amazon-deals-today/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-15 https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Exploy-The-Latest-Amazon-Deals-Today.mp4 Explore Amazon Deals Today Explore the latest deals on a wide range of products available on Amazon. From electronics and home appliances to fashion and beauty products, Amazon’s Today’s Deals section highlights significant discounts and exclusive offers across many top brands. This curated selection includes items for various needs and tastes, so whether you’re shopping for the newest gadgets, essential kitchen tools, or trend-focused clothing and accessories, you’ll find competitively priced options. The collection is updated daily to reflect fresh markdowns and time-limited promotions, giving shoppers the chance to save on quality products. Don’t miss out on these limited-time offers; take advantage and Explore Amazon’s curated deals Todayto elevate your shopping experience and secure great value on items you want. Access Here: Explore Amazon Deals Today Related Posts; Explore More Unlock tools, eBooks, and growth systems here: 👉 https://skmarketsinc.com Start Affiliate Business: Earn More With ClickBank Top Offers Travel Bookings; – Get Outstanding Deals on Your Holiday Bookings.Discounts Now Get Access to Organic Traffic;  – Real Traffic for Your Business Author Note; Most people chase love to feel whole. The real game? Become whole first—then choose love. By Awung Ngang https://skmarketsinc.com --- ## Cultivating Contentment To Ease the Habit of Constant Craving URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/cultivating-contentment-to-ease-the-habit-of-constant-craving/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-09 A practical guide to finding inner peace, reducing attachment, and living with quiet satisfaction Introduction In a world driven by desire—more success, more possessions, more validation—it’s easy to fall into a cycle of constant wanting. Yet, beneath this endless pursuit lies a simple truth: fulfillment is not found in acquiring more, but in appreciating what already exists. Cultivating contentment is the art of shifting from grasping to gratitude. It is a mindset that allows you to experience life with ease, clarity, and emotional balance. Understanding the Nature of Craving Craving often disguises itself as ambition or motivation. While striving for growth is valuable, unchecked desire can create restlessness, dissatisfaction, and stress. When we constantly chase “the next thing,” we unknowingly train our minds to reject the present moment. This creates a gap between where we are and where we think we should be—fueling anxiety and discontent. Contentment, on the other hand, bridges that gap. What Does It Mean to Cultivate Contentment? Contentment is not complacency. It is not about giving up on goals or settling for less. Instead, it is about: Appreciating what you have while still growing Letting go of attachment to outcomes Experiencing peace regardless of external circumstances It’s a powerful internal state that stabilizes your emotions and strengthens your resilience. Practical Ways to Ease Craving and Increase Contentment 1. Practice Mindful Awareness Start by observing your thoughts without judgment. Notice when cravings arise—whether for success, attention, or material things. Ask yourself: “Do I truly need this, or is this just a passing desire?” Mindfulness creates space between impulse and action. 2. Shift from Scarcity to Abundance Craving thrives on the belief that something is missing. Contentment grows when you recognize what is already present. Daily gratitude practice can rewire your thinking: Write down 3 things you’re thankful for Reflect on simple pleasures Acknowledge progress, not perfection 3. Embrace Generosity (Dāna) Generosity is a direct antidote to grasping. When you give—time, attention, kindness—you loosen the grip of self-centered desire. Generosity doesn’t always involve money: Listening deeply to someone Offering encouragement Showing patience and understanding These small acts expand your sense of connection and fulfillment. 4. Let Go of Emotional Attachments Much of our suffering comes from clinging—to outcomes, people, or expectations. Practice letting go by: Accepting uncertainty Releasing the need to control everything Trusting the natural flow of life This doesn’t mean disengagement—it means emotional freedom. 5. Create Moments of Stillness Silence and stillness are essential for cultivating inner peace. Try: Daily meditation (even 5–10 minutes) Walking without distractions Disconnecting from digital noise Stillness allows contentment to surface naturally. Why Contentment Matters in Today’s World In an era of constant comparison—especially through social media—contentment is a competitive advantage. It allows you to: Stay focused without distraction Make better decisions without emotional pressure Experience genuine happiness independent of external validation Contentment is not just a spiritual concept—it’s a practical life strategy. Final Thoughts The path to contentment is not about removing desire entirely, but about transforming your relationship with it. When you shift from grasping to appreciating, from chasing to experiencing, life becomes lighter, clearer, and more meaningful. Contentment is not something you find—it’s something you cultivate. Internal Links (For SEO & Engagement) Explore: How to Make Money Online for Beginners → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/make-money-online Discover: Best Digital Products for Passive Income → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/digital-products Read More: Mindset Shifts for Financial Freedom → https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/mindset-growth Related Posts What Is Happiness Without Love Taking an Ennobling Path in Relationships The Power of Mindfulness in Daily Life How Gratitude Transforms Your Mindset Call to Action Looking to elevate your mindset and income at the same time? Explore our curated digital products, affiliate tools, and expert insights at: 👉 https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/shop Start building a life of both inner peace and financial growth today. Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com --- ## What If Healthy Eating Habits Isn’t What You Think? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/healthy-eating-habits/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-09 The Missing Piece That’s Holding You Back from a Healthier Lifestyle [ healthy Eating Habits ] Introduction: The Puzzle You Didn’t Know You Were Solving What if everything you’ve been told about healthy eating is only half the story—and the missing piece is what’s holding you back? Think of healthy eating like trying to complete a puzzle with missing pieces. You might have the edges—eat more vegetables, drink water, avoid junk—but without the full picture, something always feels off. That’s why so many people start strong and fall off track. In this article, you’ll discover what truly makes healthy eating sustainable, practical, and effective—without feeling restrictive or overwhelming. 🥗 The Myth of “Perfect Diets” Ever felt like you have to follow a perfect diet to be healthy? That’s where most people go wrong. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Studies show that adherence—not perfection—is the biggest predictor of long-term success in healthy eating. According to research published in nutrition science, people who follow flexible eating patterns are 40% more likely to maintain their habits long-term. As nutrition expert Michael Pollan famously said, “Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.” 👉 Practical Tip: Focus on consistency over perfection. Aim for better choices most of the time—not all the time. ⚡ Why Energy Matters More Than Calories Here’s the twist: healthy eating isn’t just about weight—it’s about energy. Food is fuel. Highly processed foods may be convenient, but they often lead to energy crashes. Whole foods, on the other hand, stabilize blood sugar and improve focus. A Harvard study found that diets rich in whole foods improve daily energy levels and cognitive performance. Celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels puts it simply: “Food isn’t just calories, it’s information. It talks to your DNA.” 👉 Practical Tip: Choose foods that keep you energized for hours—like whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. 🧠 The Psychology Behind Eating Habits Let’s be real—healthy eating isn’t just physical, it’s mental. Stress, boredom, and emotions often drive food choices more than hunger. Research shows that up to 75% of overeating is linked to emotions, not physical need. That’s why willpower alone doesn’t work. As behavioral scientist James Clear explains, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” 👉 Practical Tip: Build simple systems—like prepping meals or keeping healthy snacks visible—to make good choices automatic. 🥦 Small Changes That Create Big Results Big transformations don’t come from drastic changes—they come from small, consistent actions. Research in habit formation shows that tiny changes compound over time, leading to massive results. Even adding one serving of vegetables daily can significantly improve long-term health outcomes. Author BJ Fogg notes, “Tiny habits are the seeds of big change.” 👉 Practical Tip: Start with one habit—like drinking more water or adding greens to one meal per day. 🔄 Sustainability: The Real Secret to Healthy Eating Here’s the missing piece most people overlook: sustainability. If your diet feels like punishment, it won’t last. The healthiest lifestyle is one you can maintain without feeling deprived. A long-term study found that sustainable eating patterns reduce chronic disease risk by over 30%. As wellness expert Dr. Mark Hyman says, “Don’t focus on what to cut out—focus on what to add in.” 👉 Practical Tip: Build a lifestyle you enjoy. Include foods you love in moderation. 🔗 Internal Links Learn more about building habits: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/healthy-habits-success Discover productivity tips: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/productivity-mindset-growth Explore wellness strategies: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/wellness-lifestyle-guide 📚 Related Posts “Manifesting Your Deams; Turn Your Desires Into Reality” “The Ultimate Guide To Fitness And Nutrition 2026” “The Arts And Science Of Ayurveda To Modern Wellness” 🧾 Conclusion: Your Health, Your Rules Healthy eating isn’t about strict rules, perfection, or deprivation. It’s about understanding your body, building sustainable habits, and making choices that fuel your life—not control it. When you focus on balance, energy, and consistency, everything changes. So here’s your takeaway: don’t chase the perfect diet—create a lifestyle that works for you. Because at the end of the day, the real success isn’t just eating healthy—it’s living well. 🎬 Animation Placeholder [GrapeSkinPull-5x7_1] By Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com --- ## ClickBank URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/earn-with-top-clickbank-offers/ Type: page Modified: 2026-06-06 Start Earning With Top ClickBank Offers Today, Earn More with Top ClickBank Offers Promote High-Converting Products and Boost Your Income. ClickBank is one of the world’s leading affiliate networks, connecting you with thousands of high-quality digital products that sell. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced marketer, we help you find profitable offers, maximize conversions, and grow your passive income effortlessly. 💸 1000+ High-Converting Offers 🔥 Exclusive Affiliate Insights ⚡ Real-Time Tracking & Analytics 🚀 Fast Payouts & Global Access Best Digital Products for Passive Income How Beginners Can Start Affiliate Marketing Earn With Top ClickBank Offers That Actually Work Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!Start Earning with Top ClickBank Products Today! Take the first step towards building your online income. Join ClickBank and start promoting top offers that convert! Explore Offers --- ## Happiness Without Love: Is It Real or Just a Comfortable Illusion? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/happiness-without-love-real-or-comfortable-illusion/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-04 The Truth About Fulfillment Most People Avoid Introduction Everyone talks about happiness. Everyone chases love. But almost no one stops to ask: 👉 If love disappeared from your life today… would your happiness survive? This isn’t just philosophy—it’s a reality check. Because most people don’t build happiness… they borrow it from relationships. Let’s break that pattern. Happiness Has Been Misdefined You’ve been sold a version of happiness that depends on: Approval Relationships External success But real happiness? It’s internal leverage: Control over your thoughts Alignment with your purpose Emotional independence Without that… love becomes a crutch, not a bonus. Love: Powerful—but Dangerous When Misused Love can elevate your life—or quietly weaken it. When healthy, it: ✔ Expands your emotional range ✔ Strengthens resilience ✔ Multiplies joy But when you depend on it? ❌ You lose identity ❌ You tie happiness to someone else’s behavior ❌ You become fragile That’s not happiness. That’s dependency dressed as romance. How to Be Happy Without Love (Yes, It’s Possible) Here’s the part most people skip—because it requires discipline: Build a Relationship With Yourself If you can’t enjoy your own company, no relationship will fix that. Create Meaning (Don’t Wait for It) Purpose beats romance every time in long-term fulfillment. Design Your Environment Your habits, routines, and inputs shape your emotional baseline. Master Inner Stability Meditation, reflection, and self-awareness = emotional control. The Real Balance The strongest people don’t reject love. They just don’t need it to feel complete. 👉 That’s the difference. Love becomes: A multiplier A bonus A shared experience Not a requirement for survival. Brutally Honest Reflection Ask yourself: If I lost everyone today, would I still feel grounded? Am I building happiness—or outsourcing it? Do I want love… or do I need it? Your answers will tell you everything. Final Truth Happiness without love isn’t empty. It’s stable. It’s self-owned. It’s unshakeable. And when love finally enters that kind of life? It doesn’t complete you. It elevates you. Take Action (Don’t Just Read) Build habits that don’t rely on validation Invest in skills, purpose, and growth Strengthen your mindset daily Explore More Unlock tools, eBooks, and growth systems here: 👉 https://skmarketsinc.com Amazon Deals Travel Discounts Real Traffic for Your Business Author Note Most people chase love to feel whole. The real game? Become whole first—then choose love. By Awung Ngang https://skmarketsinc.com   IKaria Lean Belly Juice Learn More Here --- ## What Is Happiness Without Love? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/what-is-happiness-without-love/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-04 Exploring the Essential Role of Love in a Life That Feels Truly Whole Introduction Happiness is something we all pursue—through goals, relationships, and personal growth. But a deeper question often goes unasked: Can happiness truly exist without love? Is happiness simply a state of mind, or does it depend on connection—romantic or otherwise? In this article, we explore the relationship between happiness and love, and how you can cultivate a fulfilling life with or without it. 🧠 Redefining Happiness Traditional views often link happiness to relationships, validation, or achievements. But a more evolved definition includes: Inner alignment Sense of purpose Emotional stability Belonging Happiness isn’t just a fleeting emotion—it’s a long-term state of well-being rooted in how you live and think. ❤️ The Role of Love in Happiness Love—whether romantic, platonic, or communal—plays a powerful role in shaping happiness. It amplifies joy and softens hardship It provides emotional nourishment It fosters growth and connection However, love is not a strict requirement for happiness—it simply deepens it when present. 🌱 Paths to Happiness Without Romantic Love Happiness can thrive independently through intentional living: 1. Self-Connection Practice self-compassion, set boundaries, and prioritize your well-being. 2. Meaningful Relationships Friendships, mentorships, and community bonds provide strong emotional foundations. 3. Purpose-Driven Living Engage in work, hobbies, or causes that align with your values. 4. Mindfulness & Inner Peace Cultivate awareness and gratitude to anchor happiness within yourself. ⚖️ Balancing Love and Happiness Healthy love should enhance, not define, your happiness. Avoid dependency for self-worth Maintain autonomy and growth Build a life that stands strong independently Strategy: Invest equally in yourself and your relationships. 💭 Reflection Questions What does happiness mean to you right now? Has love enhanced your happiness—or limited it? What habits sustain your inner peace daily? ✅ Practical Takeaways Practice daily gratitude and self-kindness Build relationships rooted in growth—not dependency Pursue purpose over validation Enjoy small, meaningful moments Conclusion Happiness and love are deeply connected—but not inseparable. A resilient, lasting happiness is built from within: through purpose, self-awareness, and meaningful connections. Love enhances that experience—but it is not the sole foundation of a fulfilled life. ————————————————————————————————————– Discover whether happiness can truly exist without love. Learn how purpose, self-growth, and meaningful connections create lasting fulfillment beyond romance. 🔗 Explore More on Success King Marketing Inc. 👉 Amazon Best Deals Today 👉 Travel Bookings – Affordable Deals 👉 Real PPV Traffic – Promote Your Business Visit: https://skmarketsinc.com 📚 Related Blog Posts How to Build Emotional Independence The Power of Self-Discipline in Personal Growth 7 Daily Habits That Transform Your Mindset ✍️ Author Note This perspective encourages balance: happiness can stand on its own, strengthened by inner growth and purpose. Love enriches the journey—but your foundation starts within.   By Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com Happiness Without Love: Is It Real or Just a Comfortable Illusion? The Truth About Fulfillment Most People Avoid   Introduction Everyone talks about happiness. Everyone chases love. But almost no one stops to ask: 👉 If love disappeared from your life today… would your happiness survive? This isn’t just philosophy—it’s a reality check. Because most people don’t build happiness… they borrow it from relationships. Let’s break that pattern. Download Full PDF Article Here To Continue Reading Happiness Has Been Misdefined   --- ## The Ennobling Path to Stronger Relationships URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/taking-an-ennobling-path-in-relationships/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-03 7 Practices That Transform How You Connect   Mindful Couple Having a Calm ConversationThis suggestion focuses on a warm, intimate atmosphere. Two people sit closely, making eye contact and using relaxed posture to emphasize active listening and mutual respect in a peaceful indoor setting. ———————————————————————–   What if the biggest breakthrough in your relationships isn’t about changing others—but transforming how you show up? Introduction Think of relationships like a garden. You can’t force flowers to bloom, but you can nurture the soil, water consistently, and create the right conditions for growth. In the same way, meaningful connections thrive when we cultivate the right inner habits. In this article, you’ll discover seven powerful practices that help you build deeper, healthier relationships—whether in business, friendships, or personal life. These insights align perfectly with the growth mindset we champion at Success King Marketing Inc. 1. Master the Art of Mental Steadiness Ever noticed how quickly emotions can hijack a conversation? One moment you’re calm, the next you’re reacting. Mental steadiness means staying grounded even when discussions get tough. It allows you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively—especially in high-stakes business or personal conversations. Why it matters: Research shows emotional regulation improves relationship satisfaction by over 30%. Quote: “Between stimulus and response, there is a space.” — Viktor Frankl Practical Tip: Pause for 3 seconds before responding in emotionally charged conversations. 2. Warm the Heart Before You Speak Here’s the truth—people don’t just hear your words; they feel your intention. Approaching conversations with empathy and kindness softens defenses and builds trust. Whether you’re dealing with a partner or a client, warmth opens doors logic alone cannot. Why it matters: Studies in emotional intelligence show empathy is a top predictor of strong interpersonal relationships. Quote: “People will forget what you said, but never how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou Practical Tip: Start difficult conversations by acknowledging the other person’s perspective. 3. Stop Chasing—Start Resting in Fulfillment We often enter relationships expecting others to “complete” us. That’s a losing game. True connection starts when you feel whole within yourself. When you’re not seeking validation, your relationships become more authentic and less dependent. Why it matters: Self-contentment reduces relationship anxiety and improves communication clarity. Quote: “You alone are enough.” — Oprah Winfrey Practical Tip: Spend 10 minutes daily reflecting on what you already appreciate in your life. 4. Build a Culture of Contentment and Peace Conflict isn’t the problem—how we handle it is. A sense of inner peace allows you to navigate disagreements without escalating tension. This is critical not just in personal relationships but also in leadership and business environments. Why it matters: Calm communication reduces conflict escalation by up to 50%. Quote: “Peace begins with a smile.” — Mother Teresa Practical Tip: Lower your tone intentionally during disagreements—it naturally de-escalates tension. 5. Embrace Wholeness, Not Perfection Trying to “fix” yourself—or others—can strain relationships. Instead, focus on accepting imperfections. Growth happens faster when people feel accepted rather than judged. Why it matters: Acceptance strengthens emotional safety, a key factor in long-term relationships. Quote: “Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it.” — Brené Brown Practical Tip: Replace criticism with curiosity—ask questions instead of making assumptions. 6. Receive the Power of the Present Moment Many relationship struggles come from dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Being present allows you to truly listen, understand, and connect. Why it matters: Mindfulness practices have been shown to improve relationship satisfaction and reduce stress. Quote: “Wherever you are, be there totally.” — Eckhart Tolle Practical Tip: Put your phone away during important conversations—full attention builds deeper trust. 7. Open Yourself to Something Greater Great relationships go beyond transactions—they’re rooted in purpose and shared growth. When you approach relationships with openness and a bigger vision, they become more meaningful and resilient. Why it matters: Shared purpose strengthens long-term commitment and collaboration. Quote: “The best relationships are the ones that bring out the best in you.” Practical Tip: Regularly discuss goals and values with the people you connect with most. #Relationships #EmotionalIntelligence #Mindfulness #Communication #SelfGrowth #HealthyBoundaries #LoveGrowth #Healthy Relationship Practises. Internal Links Learn more about personal growth strategies: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/personal-development Explore business mindset tips: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/business-growth Read about leadership development: https://dnd.ius.temporary.site/leadership Related Posts “How Emotional Intelligence Drives Business Success” “The Power of Mindset in Entrepreneurial Growth” “Building Trust in High-Performance Teams” Conclusion Strong relationships aren’t built overnight—they’re cultivated through intention, awareness, and consistent practice. By developing mental steadiness, leading with empathy, embracing the present moment, and aligning with purpose, you create connections that are not only stronger but deeply fulfilling. At Success King Marketing Inc., we believe success isn’t just about business growth—it’s about growing as a person. Because when you elevate how you connect, you elevate every area of your life. Author: Awung Ngang Website: https://skmarketsinc.com   Also Chechout On These Interesting Links! Related Links1: Amazon Best Deals Today Related Links2: Travel Bookings, Best Affordable Travel Deals  Related Link3: Real PPV Web Traffic. Promote Your Business Seamlessly   --- ## Field-of-Dreams Bluebonnets: A Spectacular Spring Superbloom at Muleshoe Bend URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/muleshoe-bend-texas-bluebonnets/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-02 Texas Bluebonnets Are Chasing the Drought Away in Spicewood Bring on the blues! While this spring has been a bit of a bust for highway bluebonnets due to the ongoing drought, a glorious, bumper-crop oasis is hiding just an hour northwest of Austin. Word got out this week about an incredible patch of Texas bluebonnets in full bloom at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area in Spicewood. We quickly texted some friends, packed into the car, and made a spontaneous Wednesday evening road trip. We arrived just before the golden hour. It may have been April Fools’ Day, but it was absolutely no joke—the bluebonnets were amazing! The moment I stepped out of the car, their sweet fragrance washed over me. Honestly, I hadn’t smelled a bluebonnet field that rich and sweet since the legendary bumper-crop fields of 2010. Exploring the Stunning Bluebonnet Fields of Muleshoe Bend A steady breeze kept the fields alive, making each flower wave a friendly hello. Beyond the rolling fields of indigo, Lake Travis curves beautifully along the ridge, adding its own deep line of blue to the horizon. Golden Hour Magic and Quiet Crowds Because it was a weekday evening, we lucked out with minimal crowds. It was pure joy just to sit back and watch other visitors delighting in the flowers: Pet-Friendly Photos: Plenty of families were making memories, capturing adorable Easter photos with their pups nestled safely in the blooms. Vibrant Contrast: The bluebonnets sparkled with white-tipped indigo flower spikes, looking exactly like whitecaps on a blue lake. Nature’s Color Blocking: Here and there, the fresh flowers mingled with last season’s golden grasses. Along the lake shore, a stand of willows stood bare—creating a striking color block of tan against the vibrant greens and blues. Meanwhile, birds shot past like brown torpedoes. Cedar waxwings, perhaps? It was an absolute picture-perfect, iconic Texas spring scene. Capturing the Ultimate Texas Bluebonnet Photos You can’t visit a superbloom without taking a few photos! We snapped a couple of selfies in the ‘bonnets, but our friends, Cat and Derrick, took it to the next level by demonstrating a much more vigorous bluebonnet pose. Not to be outdone, David and Derrick leaped so high they got all the way up into the blue sky. Now that is true bluebonnet enthusiasm! And honestly, why not? Just look at this view, and imagine that sweet, intoxicating floral fragrance washing over you. Twilight Over Lake Travis As the sun finally set, the vivid blues of the field began to deepen into twilight. A quick 360-degree turn revealed rolling Texas hills in the distance and iconic live oaks standing guard along the road. If you are looking for the ultimate Texas spring road trip, pack your camera and head out to Muleshoe Bend before these beautiful blues fade away! The post Field-of-dreams bluebonnets at Muleshoe Bend appeared first on Digging (April 04, 2026). Related Posts1: Amazon Deals Today Related Posts2; Best, Affordable Travel Bookings Great Deals available Now. Related Posts3; Real PPV Web Traffic. to Promote your Programs Muleshoe Bend Texas bluebonnets --- ## The ROI of Fun: The Real Benefits of Play in the Workplace for Business Growth URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/benefits-of-play-in-the-workplace/ Type: post Modified: 2026-06-01 Why the Benefits of Playful Mindset is Your Business’s Ultimate Performance Enhancer—Not a Reward to Earn After Work.   benefits-of-play-in-the-workplace What if play isn’t a distraction from meaningful work, but the secret weapon that actually makes it better? In the high-stakes world of digital marketing and entrepreneurship, we are often conditioned to believe that constant pressure equals productivity. But a fascinating conversation on the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast between host John Jantsch and Refinery29 co-founder Piera Gelardi turns this old-school philosophy on its head. Drawing from her book The Playful Way, Gelardi outlines a powerful strategic truth: a playful mindset is a performance enhancer, not a reward you earn only after the hard work is finished. For brands looking to build a dominant presence, learning how to leverage the true benefits of play in the workplace might just be the missing link to your next major innovation. 1. Play is a Performance Tool, Not a Post-Work Reward Too many corporate cultures treat fun like a weekend luxury. In reality, stepping into an experimental mindset directly fuels high-level problem solving, communication, and creative thinking while you work. When teams feel safe enough to play with ideas, they break past conventional boundaries. Success King Growth Note: If you are developing your own digital training assets, keeping your team’s creative juices flowing is non-negotiable. Learn how to package your team’s expertise into high-converting materials with our premium Success King Marketing Inc eCourses. 2. The Dangerous Cost of Play Deprivation When a workplace eliminates curiosity and experimentation, “play deprivation” sets in. This doesn’t just mean a quiet office; it leads to severe business blockades: Drastically reduced psychological resilience when campaigns underperform. Rigid, repetitive marketing strategies that fail to capture audience attention. A steep decline in intrinsic motivation, turning vibrant roles into uninspiring tasks. 3. Unlocking Innovation with “Divergent Thinking” A pressured mindset forces us to look for the single, safest outcome—which usually results in recycled marketing ideas. Conversely, a playful environment fosters divergent thinking, empowering your strategists to explore multiple creative possibilities simultaneously before narrowing down the winner. This approach is exactly how Gelardi helped scale Refinery29 from a boutique startup blog into a global media powerhouse generating over $100M in revenue. How to Implement a Playful Framework in Your Business To help you visualize how a playful framework contrasts with traditional corporate pressure, consider how these mindsets shift your daily operations: Feature The Pressured Way The Playful Way Core Focus Rigid, strict outcomes Open, experimental Driving Force Fear of failure Pure idea generation Team Resilience Low; mistakes cause panic High; mistakes are data points Marketing Style Safe, predictable, recycled Innovative, bold, high-impact Avoid “Forced Fun”—Embrace Micro-Moments You don’t need a massive budget or mandatory corporate retreat games to unlock these benefits. In fact, forced fun often backfires. True cultural transformation happens in small, daily micro-moments: The 60-Second Shake Break: Shake off the physical stress of back-to-back screen time before a major brainstorming session. Curiosity Prompts: Start your strategic huddles with a low-stakes, imaginative question to shift brains out of survival mode. Reframing as Experiments: Instead of launching a high-pressure “make-or-break” campaign, frame it as a marketing experiment. Lowering the perceived risk instantly increases the quality of the creative output. Leadership Sets the Playground Rules Ultimately, your team will only be as playful and experimental as their leadership allows. Executives and founders must model vulnerability. If leaders never show curiosity, try new angles, or laugh off small stumbles, the team will remain locked in a safe, uninspired rhythm. Continuous learning is an excellent way to keep your leadership style fresh. Explore our comprehensive collection of blueprint strategies in the Success King Digital Shop, where we offer foundational guides tailored for major digital niches. Ready to Scale Your Digital Products Strategy? Injecting play into your business strategy unlocks the creative power needed to build world-class information products. Whether you are creating instructional manuals or launching interactive training programs, success depends on standout content. Check out our curated library of top-tier Success King Marketing Inc eBooks to claim step-by-step masterclasses designed to turn your team’s innovative ideas into highly profitable digital assets.   --- ## Responsive Web Design Tips: Designing Digital Products for the Unexpected URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/responsive-web-design-tips-digital-products/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-31 Designing Responsive Digital Information Products for the Future How do you create digital services for situations you can’t yet imagine? Or design responsive digital information products, eCourses, and eBooks that function flawlessly on devices that haven’t even been invented yet? It is a question that high-growth online brands have to face every day. Building a scalable digital shop means creating user experiences that seamlessly adapt to any screen size. To understand where we are going, it helps to look at how far web design has evolved. { Responsive Web Designs for the Unexpected } From Fixed Pixels to Fluid Real Estate When modern web development first gained traction, Photoshop was the gold standard for layout creation. Designers typically built layouts on a rigid 960-pixel canvas and dropped content into place. The development phase focused entirely on attaining pixel-perfect accuracy using fixed widths, absolute positioning, and hardcoded heights. Everything changed with the introduction of Responsive Web Design (RWD). Shifting away from rigid, pixel-perfect designs packed with restrictive “magic numbers” was intimidating. Trying to force an existing fixed-width website to be responsive after production reveals a hard truth: you cannot just bolt responsiveness onto the end of a project. To create fluid layouts that protect your user experience, you must plan for scalability from day one. Shifting to a Fluid Framework Designing fluid sites requires removing rigid limitations so your digital products remain highly readable on any device. Early layouts relied heavily on percentage-based math achieved with native CSS and utility classes: CSS .column-span-6 { width: 49%; float: left; margin-right: 0.5%; margin-left: 0.5%; } .column-span-4 { width: 32%; float: left; margin-right: 0.5%; margin-left: 0.5%; } Developers later adopted Preprocessors like Sass to leverage @includes, allowing teams to reuse repeated blocks of code while maintaining cleaner, semantic markup: SCSS .logo { @include colSpan(6); } .search { @include colSpan(3); } The Role of Media Queries and Breakpoints The second core ingredient of responsive web design is media queries. Without them, content simply shrinks to fit the available space, crushing text and rendering interface components too small to interact with on mobile devices. Media queries prevent layout collapse by introducing specific breakpoints where the layout can safely adapt. While most developers begin with three basic breakpoints—desktop, tablet, and mobile—growing device variations quickly demand supplementary breakpoints for phablets, ultra-wide screens, and compact foldables. Scaling Content Management for Small Businesses While early row-based grid frameworks like Bootstrap or Skeleton helped standardize fluid layouts, they introduced a major structural flaw for digital shop owners: hardcoded markup dependencies. Because older grid systems wrapped every row in a structural div container, changing or adding content required editing raw HTML markup. For a small business owner simply trying to update their eCourse catalog or drop a new eBook, navigating code structures can be an immediate roadblock. Modern layouts resolve this limitation by prioritizing modern CSS Grid and Flexbox structures. This shift separates structural layout rules from raw content, empowering site owners to scale their e-commerce storefronts dynamically without touching underlying code. Optimize Your Digital Storefront Building a highly responsive digital shop requires choosing the right tools and layout frameworks early in production to minimize maintenance over time. Primary Categories: Web Development, Web Design, UI/UX Insights Tags: #webdevelopment #webdesign #cssgrid #frontend #uiux #trendalert2026 #digitalgrowth #softwaredevelopment #seotips #ecommercewebsite --- ## The Future of AI Marketing Strategy for CMO’s URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-future-of-ai-marketing-strategy/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-31 Why Human Taste Defines the New CMO Role Artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic line item on a tech budget. It is fundamentally reshaping the structural foundation of how we build brands, scale operations, and connect with audiences. In a recent episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, host John Jantsch sat down with Peter Benei—a seasoned marketing strategist with over 20 years of experience and co-founder of AI Ready CMO. Together, they cut through the superficial tech hype to look at the real operational realities facing modern marketing leaders. The core takeaway? AI won’t replace strategic marketing—but it will ruthlessly replace repetitive execution. ai data driven systems         1. AI is an Operational Shift, Not Just a Software Tool Most past marketing innovations followed a predictable path: a new platform emerged (like social media or marketing automation), and teams hired specialists to run it. AI doesn’t fit that mold. It changes core workflows and organizational designs from the inside out. Instead of adding a tool to your existing stack, artificial intelligence forces a re-evaluation of how your entire team produces value. “You don’t need to dramatize or panic around AI. You just need to adapt.” — Peter Benei 2. The Great Decoupling: Content Production vs. Strategic Taste As generative tools make content creation practically free, the market is quickly becoming flooded with generic, automated copy and graphics. Because of this, the value metric in marketing is shifting. What AI takes over: High-volume content creation, initial drafts, structural data analysis, and basic repurposing tasks. What humans must retain: Creative taste, nuanced positioning, deep empathy, and strict quality control. When the friction of production disappears, success relies entirely on your foundational strategy. If your team focuses solely on generating more volume with AI, you will quickly find your brand lost in a sea of algorithmic noise. 3. The CMO as an Orchestrator The profile of a successful Chief Marketing Officer is undergoing a massive evolution. Historically, a CMO managed large teams split into siloed execution brackets (copywriters, designers, ad managers). Tomorrow’s CMO must act less like a traditional manager and more like an orchestrator. [Traditional CMO] ──> Manages Large Execution Teams (Silos) [AI-Ready CMO] ──> Orchestrates AI-Enhanced Workflows + Human Curators With custom, single-purpose apps becoming incredibly easy to construct, agile leaders are building bespoke automated pipelines. This allows small, lean teams to produce outputs that previously required massive corporate budgets. 4. Why Soft Skills and Liberal Arts are Making a Comeback As technical execution and coding become increasingly automated by large language models, the premium on human skills is shifting back toward critical thinking. Hiring managers are beginning to place renewed value on background areas like the liberal arts, philosophy, and communications. Why? Because these disciplines train people to ask better questions, analyze context deeply, and understand the core of human behavior. “Now you don’t need massive resources. You need a laptop, an idea, judgment, and taste. Things AI can’t replace.” — Peter Benei Summary of Core Realities Evolving Element The Old Way The AI-Driven Future Team Structure Large teams focused heavily on content production. Lean teams driven by strategic orchestrators. Tech Stacks Fragmented, single-purpose SaaS subscriptions. Tool consolidation into major ecosystems (Microsoft/Google). Hiring Focus Specialized technical or platform-specific execution skills. High emotional intelligence, strategic taste, and critical judgment. The goal for your brand shouldn’t be to build an “AI-first” business, but rather an AI-enhanced, strategy-first operation. By pairing automated efficiency with human discernment, your organization can move faster without losing the authentic human connection that drives true customer loyalty. Success King Marketing Inc. Insights Team covers the intersection of modern technology and high-growth business strategy. Source framework adapted from Peter Benei on the Duct Tape Marketing Network.   --- ## The Wax And The Wane Of The Web URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-wax-and-the-wane-of-the-web/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-30 Digital products that solve real problems. Why the Internet Never Stands Still—and Why That’s Your Biggest Advantage Here’s a truth most people don’t want to hear: The moment you think you’ve figured things out… you’re already behind. It’s true in life. It’s true in business. And it’s especially true on the internet. The web doesn’t wait. It evolves. Fast. The Illusion of Stability Think about it—just when you finally understand how something works online, everything shifts. New platforms rise. Old strategies die. Algorithms change overnight. Sound frustrating? It shouldn’t be. Because every disruption wipes the slate clean—and gives smart players a chance to win. Back When the Internet Was Chaos Let’s rewind to the 90s. Building a website back then? It was messy, unpredictable, and borderline chaotic. Designers hacked together layouts using tables. Fonts were painfully limited. Colors were restricted. And if you wanted something unique, you had to fight the system to make it happen. There were no shortcuts. No drag-and-drop builders. No AI tools. Just raw experimentation. Then Came Order… And Opportunity As the internet matured, structure replaced chaos. CSS changed the game. Websites became cleaner, faster, and more scalable. Platforms like blogging systems and early CMS tools gave power to everyday people—not just developers. Suddenly, anyone could publish, promote, and profit online. That was the first real digital gold rush. The Real Game-Changer: Interactivity Then things got serious. Websites stopped being static—and started becoming experiences. Users could interact, engage, and stay longer. Businesses could sell smarter. And just like that, the internet transformed into the most powerful money-making machine in history. Here’s What Most People Miss Everyone focuses on what is changing. Very few understand why it matters. The constant evolution of the web is not a threat—it’s leverage. Because every time the system resets: Beginners get a fresh start Early adopters dominate And outdated players get left behind Your Opportunity Right Now You don’t need to know everything. And, You don’t need decades of experience. What you need is to plug into what’s working  Digital products that solve real problems Affiliate systems that generate income on autopilot Platforms that amplify your reach This is exactly what we focus on at Success King Marketing Inc. – Blog Insights. Final Thought: Stay Ahead or Stay Stuck The web will keep evolving. That’s guaranteed. The only real question is: Will you adapt—or get left behind? Because in this game, the winners aren’t the smartest. They’re the fastest to adjust. And right now…You’re closer than you think to getting ahead. CheckOut Our Digital Onestop Shop for Information Products 2026 --- ## Turn Your Child into a Confident, High-Achieving Reader URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/turn-your-child-into-a-confident-high-achieving-reader/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-29 Transform Your Child into a Confident, High-Achieving Reader—No Stress, Just 10 Minutes a Day! 📚✨ Make your child achieve the gift of confident reading without tears, pressure, or long lesson plans, our Children Learning Reading eBooks make it simple: 10 minutes a day, fun activities, and proven techniques that build skills and boost self-esteem. Read on to discover an easy, stress-free routine that helps kids fall in love with reading and reach their full potential. Why Early Reading Confidence Matters Builds foundation for academic success and lifelong learning Improves vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills Boosts self-esteem and motivation to tackle new challenges Keyphrase: confident reader for kids The 10-Minute Daily Routine That Turns Your Child Into a Confident, High-Achieving Reader Warm-up (2 minutes): Sing a rhyming song or read one short page aloud together. Targeted skill practice (5 minutes): Use a short activity from our eBooks—phonics, sight words, or comprehension prompts. Celebrate & connect (3 minutes): Praise effort, ask one simple question about the story, and let your child read a favorite line. Keyphrase: 10 minutes a day reading routine Why Awung Ngang eBooks Are Different Bite-sized lessons: Designed for busy families—only a few minutes per activity. Playful, research-backed methods: Phonics + sight words + meaning-based practice. Engaging visuals and interactive prompts to hold attention. Clear parent guides: No teaching experience required. Keyphrase: children learning reading eBooks Real Results, Real Confidence Parents report rapid progress: fewer frustrations, improved fluency, and renewed enthusiasm for reading. Our approach focuses on small wins that stack into lasting skills and higher achievement. Keyphrase: improve child reading confidence Top Tips to Maximize Success Make it consistent: daily beats occasional long sessions. Keep it joyful: follow your child’s interests (animals, space, adventure). Celebrate progress: sticker charts, story-time high-fives, or extra reading choice. Keyphrase: reading tips for kids Keywords to Target children learning reading eBooks confident reader for kids 10 minutes a day reading routine improve child reading confidence reading practice for children Suggested Hashtags #AwungNgang #EarlyReading #KidsBooks #ReadingForKids #LearnToRead #ParentTips #10MinuteReading #ConfidentReader 📖✨ Ready to turn reading time into your child’s favorite part of the day? Explore Children Learning Reading eBooks now and start the 10-minute routine that changes everything.  Download your first eBook and get a free starter guide today! Small daily steps = big reading wins. Start today—your confident reader is waiting! 🚀📘 Learn More Here --- ## Blogs URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/blog-insights-posts/ Type: page Modified: 2026-05-29 Blog Insights — Where Smart People Learn to Earn Online Welcome to Blog Insights, the engine room behind real online income, smarter digital decisions, and next-level personal growth. This isn’t just another blog. This is your playbook for making money online, built for beginners, side hustlers, and future digital entrepreneurs who are ready to stop scrolling and start earning. Inside, you’ll discover: How to start affiliate marketing from scratch (even with zero experience) Top ClickBank products that are actually converting right now Best digital products for passive income that keep paying you long-term Powerful self-improvement eBooks that upgrade your mindset and habits We don’t waste time on fluff. Every article is engineered to help you: Learn faster. Act smarter. Earn sooner. You’ll also gain access to high-performing opportunities and tools, including: Winning Amazon deals worth promoting and buying Real PPV traffic sources to drive instant visibility Travel booking platforms for lifestyle freedom Productivity tools that actually get results—not hype Our content spans across money-making and life-building niches: From Wealth Building, E-Business, and Marketing… to Health, Family, Spirituality, and Personal Growth. Everything is designed with one goal: Turn knowledge into income. If you’re serious about leveling up, building passive income streams, and tapping into digital opportunities that work in the real world—you’re in the right place. Stay sharp. Stay consistent. Stay King. --- ## SEO Services: The Complete Guide for 2026 URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/seo-services-the-complete-guide-for-2026/ Type: product Modified: 2026-05-25 SEO Services: The Complete Guide for 2026. 🚀 Overview Ready to rank higher, earn more traffic, and grow revenue through search? Success King’s forward-looking SEO program for 2026 and beyond is built to help SMBs, brands, and eCommerce businesses win on Google—using a repeatable, data-driven framework that delivers measurable results. This guide is designed to cover both what’s working now and what will matter next—so you can build sustainable organic growth instead of chasing short-term wins. 🎯 Hero Promise With Success King’s SEO services, you’ll be able to: Drive sustainable organic growth using a repeatable SEO system Improve user experience that boosts engagement and conversions Track measurable ROI through transparent reporting and ongoing optimization ✅ What You Get You receive an end-to-end SEO engagement that includes: Comprehensive SEO program: strategy, implementation, and ongoing optimization Monthly or quarterly plans with clear, trackable KPIs Access to industry-leading tools and dashboards for real visibility into progress Expert execution across content, technical SEO, and ethical link building 📦 Packages (Example Options — We Tailor to Your Needs) Pick the service level that matches your goals and growth stage: Growth Pro Core SEO foundations On-page optimization Technical health improvements Monthly reporting with KPI tracking Growth Plus Everything in Growth Pro, plus: Advanced content strategy and content clusters Structured data implementation Local / geo optimization for higher-intent searches Enterprise Scale Everything in Growth Plus, plus: Authoritative link-building Competitor analytics and gap targeting Custom dashboards + dedicated account management 🧠 Why Success King SEO Works (2026-Ready) Our SEO approach is built for performance and long-term stability: Actionable, measurable outcomes (clear KPIs + dashboards + ROI tracking) Full-funnel SEO optimization (content + technical health + links) Local and eCommerce optimized for product pages, categories, and map visibility Future-ready strategy, including AI-assisted insights, structured data, and optimization for emerging search behaviors like voice/visual discovery 🔥 Core SEO Pillars (What We Actually Do) To rank consistently, we cover every critical layer: 1) On-Page SEO Title tags, meta descriptions, headers Internal linking strategy Image and URL optimization Schema markup for better visibility 2) Technical SEO Site speed & performance improvements Mobile optimization HTTPS, sitemaps, crawl reliability Core technical health that supports rankings 3) Off-Page SEO (Ethical Link Building) Backlink development through outreach and relationship building Reputation growth using safe, sustainable tactics 4) Local SEO Google Business Profile (GMB) optimization NAP accuracy consistency Reviews strategy + local authority building 5) Content Marketing Topic strategy + content clusters Formats like blogs, video, infographics, and podcasts Refreshing and expanding content for ongoing growth 6) Tools & Analytics Google Search Console + GA4 tracking Platforms like Ahrefs, SEMrush, Moz, Ubersuggest KPI dashboards that show progress clearly 💬 What Clients Typically Experience From small businesses to eCommerce brands, clients report: Stronger organic visibility and rankings More qualified traffic that converts Better map presence for local businesses Improved product/category performance and revenue growth ⚙️ How It Works (Simple Process) Discovery & goal-setting — align SEO outcomes with business goals Audit & roadmap — identify quick wins and fix critical gaps Roadmap execution — structured SEO sprints + monthly check-ins Reporting — transparent metrics, ROI tracking, and next steps Collaboration — a dedicated account manager and client-facing dashboards ✅ Key Benefits for Your Business Higher organic rankings and visibility More qualified traffic from the right search intent Better UX and engagement signals Reliable lead and revenue growth with measurable ROI Clear, transparent performance reporting (no guessing) 👥 Who This Is For This SEO service is ideal for: Businesses looking for sustained organic growth Brands trying to grow authority in a competitive niche Local businesses aiming to capture nearby customers eCommerce stores needing product and category optimization Marketing teams that want a scalable SEO framework 📩 Next Steps Want to tailor a plan for your website and goals? Schedule a discovery call with Success King Marketing Inc. Share your current SEO performance, gaps, and priorities Align on goals, timelines, and success metrics for 2026 growth SEO Services Keywords (naturally included) SEO services, complete SEO guide 2026, technical SEO, on-page SEO, off-page SEO, link building, local SEO, eCommerce SEO, content strategy, SEO reporting, GA4, Google Search Console, keyword strategy   --- ## Amazon Deals URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/amazon-deals/ Type: page Modified: 2026-05-20 Grab the Best Amazon Deals Today! Discover Exclusive Discounts & Unbeatable Offers on Amazon Discover amazing discounts and unbeatable offers on Amazon, your ultimate destination for exceptional savings across every category imaginable. From the latest electronics and cutting-edge gadgets to stylish fashion, home essentials, beauty products, and everything in between, we bring you the hottest deals all in one place. Whether you’re upgrading your wardrobe, revamping your living space, or hunting for the perfect gift, Amazon’s curated deals give you access to exclusive offers you won’t find anywhere else. Shop with confidence knowing that every product comes from top brands and trusted sellers, ensuring premium quality and lasting value. Our wide range of products means there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a fitness lover, or a busy parent looking for everyday essentials. With unbeatable prices that fit any budget, you can enjoy premium shopping without the premium price tag. Don’t miss out on these limited-time offers. Shop smart, save big, and make every purchase count. Enjoy easy access to top-selling products and a fast link to purchase, so your next great find is just a click away. Start exploring Amazon’s exclusive offers today and experience smarter shopping like never before!   Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!Don’t Miss Out on These Amazing Deals! Click now to grab the best Amazon discounts before they’re gone! View Latest Deals --- ## Travel Bookings URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/travel-bookings/ Type: page Modified: 2026-05-20 📅 Easy Booking & Instant Confirmation We understand that your time is valuable. That’s why our booking process is designed to be simple, fast, and intuitive. With just a few clicks, you can search, compare, and book your entire trip. Plus, instant confirmation means no waiting — your travel plans are secured immediately. Our 24/7 customer support team is always ready to assist if you need help along the way. 🌟 Why Choose Us? Easy & Fast: User-friendly interface for hassle-free booking Affordable: Competitive prices and exclusive discounts Reliable: Trusted partners and secure payment gateway Support: Dedicated customer service available around the clock Start planning your dream trip today. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, we make affordable travel bookings simple and stress-free. Book now and embark on your next journey with confidence! Book Your Dream Trip Today! Easy, Fast, and affordable travel bookings. Discover amazing travel deals and plan your perfect getaway with ease. From flights and hotels to holiday packages, we make booking seamless and stress-free. Explore top destinations, compare prices, and secure your next affordable travel booking in just a few clicks! ✈️ Best Flight & Hotel Deals Finding affordable flights and comfortable hotels has never been easier. Our platform aggregates the best deals from hundreds of airlines and accommodation providers worldwide. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly hostels, cozy boutique hotels, or luxury resorts, we have options to suit every traveler’s style and budget. Real-time price comparisons ensure you always get the best value for your money. 🌍 Explore Popular Destinations From tropical beaches and vibrant cities to serene mountains and cultural landmarks, we cover destinations across the globe. Whether you dream of wandering through the streets of Paris, relaxing on the beaches of Bali, or exploring the temples of Kyoto, your next adventure is just a few clicks away. Discover hidden gems and popular hotspots curated by travel experts. 💰 Affordable Packages & Discounts Why book separately when you can save more with exclusive holiday packages? Our bundled deals combine flights, hotels, and sometimes even activities at discounted rates. Early bird offers, last-minute deals, and seasonal promotions mean there’s always a way to save. We help you stretch your travel budget further without compromising on quality. Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!Start Your Journey Today! Don’t wait—grab the best travel deals and make your dream trip a reality! Book Now --- ## Grooving in Gruene with music-shopping, and Gardens of Texas URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/grooving-in-gruene-with-music-shopping-and-gardens-of-texas/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-16 Gruene is one of my favorite Texas daytrips. On any given Saturday afternoon, you’ll find a band playing for tips in the old-timey dancehall…… Read More The post Grooving in Gruene with music, shopping, and Gardens of Texas appeared first on Digging. March 25, 2026 A day trip to tiny Gruene, an hour south of Austin, has been one of my favorite excursions for as long as I’ve lived in Texas. On any given Saturday afternoon, you’ll find a band playing for tips in the old-timey dancehall. Gift and antique shops, restaurants and tasting rooms line the town’s two streets. Grab a riverside table on the decks at the Gristmill Restaurant (go early to beat the crowd), and you can watch tubers float the Guadalupe while you wolf down a chicken-fried steak. HD Gruene Mercantile (image) On a recent visit, I checked out brand-new H.D. Gruene Mercantile, “the oldest new shop in town” in the red-brick general store building. (image) And what did I spot on the shelves? My new book, Gardens of Texas! (image) Here… (image) …there… (image) …and everywhere. I was charmed by the store’s buy-in on my book, of course, but also by its fun selection of gifts, home goods, and clothing. I bought a ceramic good-luck horseshoe decorated with flowering red yuccas along with a few Gruene souvenirs. (image) A mini Gruene Hall playhouse was popular with young kids. (image) Amusingly, it even has a neon beer sign inside. I hope there are toy guitars and fiddles in there too — teach ’em early! (image) Gruene Hall is even rendered in birdseed, for bird-loving shoppers. Gruene Hall (image) The real Gruene Hall stands right across the street under the water tower. Its white, flat facade with a mishmash of windows and doors under that iconic arching font opens into… (image) …a long, spacious hall with neon beer signs and creaky wooden floors sanded smooth by years of two-stepping. Air conditioning has never made an appearance here — just screened windows and sweating bottles of beer to keep you cool on a warm March day. Have I ever been here during the furnace of a Texas summer? I don’t recall, so I suspect not. Grooving in Gruene with music-shopping, and the famous Gardens of Texas Sarah Schafer and the Hired Help were playing when we walked in and found a seat right in front of the stage. Who can resist a Texas twang and yodel? Not me. Related Articles:Amazon Deals Important; Book Your Holidays with Our Travel Bookings Services --- ## Bloom Spikes: Stunning Succulent Gardens Show URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/bloom-spikes-tunning-succulent-gardens-show/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-11 Agave, Yucca, and Hesperaloe Bloom Spikes: A Stunning Succulent Garden Show Published April 10, 2026 My garden has always leaned toward the spiky side, thanks to my collection of agaves, yuccas, and sotols. But right now, the spikes aren’t just in the foliage — they’re rising up in spectacular bloom stalks. A Garden Bursting with Bloom Spikes My favorite hesperaloe (Hesperaloe parviflora ‘Yellow’) is putting on a show in the lower garden, sending up five-foot spikes adorned with moonshine-yellow flowers. Three horn-like bloom spikes are sprouting from the tallest Yucca rostrata. I get an eye-to-eye view from my elevated deck — a perspective I never tire of. I’ve been rewatching Game of Thrones, and this particular yucca reminds me of the Night King’s spiky crown. Tucked within those high, strappy leaves, a pair of house finches are raising a brood of chicks. From ground level, the bloom stalks reach dramatically for the sky. More Blooms Across the Garden ‘Brakelights’ hesperaloe — a smaller cultivar of the common red yucca — is blooming in a galvanized pot along the side path. In the Circle Garden, the only bloom spikes right now are blue-bottle ones. Still, the geometry of the space is visually engaging, even when it’s mostly shades of green. Here’s the Circle Garden from another angle, featuring variegated whale’s tongue agave, woolly stemodia, and four-nerve daisy in the stock-tank planter. Mexican hat and winecup wildflowers are coming along and will be flowering soon. A Pause for Foliage and Color Let’s step away from the bloom-spike theme for a moment and admire the dusty lavender foliage and fleshy texture of ghost plant against the blue wall. And the cascading canes of ‘Peggy Martin’ rose and ‘Tangerine Beauty’ crossvine. More ghost plant — in two different colors, likely due to differing light exposure — livens up the deck table. The symmetry of a spiny whale’s tongue agave evokes a big blue rose. This one lives in the gravelly entry garden. The Spike That Knew When to Stop A ‘Vanzie’ whale’s tongue agave by the street is sending up the biggest bloom spike in my entire garden. Here’s how it looked on April 1. A week later, on April 8, the flowers had started to open. This agave has a remarkably sensible spike — it stopped growing just before it reached the live oak limb above it, almost as if it knew when to stop. Did it…? A close-up view reveals the intricate flowers. The bees will be here soon. Book Tour Events Heads up, Central Texas gardeners: I have one more speaking event for the launch of Gardens of Texas. And huzzah — it’s free! Come see me and get your copy signed. Also visit Our Website Related Post: Amazon Deals Related Post: Travel Bookings Visit Our eBook Store:Shop Get Organic Traffic: PPV Web-traffic for Website --- ## Health & Fitness URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/health-fitness/ Type: page Modified: 2026-05-09 Grab the Best Fitness & Nutrition Deals Today! Save Big on Top Products Every Day. Discover amazing discounts and unbeatable offers on Wellness Health & Fitness. A Comprehensive Guide to Wellness,Healthy Living, Fitness & Nutrition Guide deals all in one place. Don’t miss out—shop smart and save more! 💰 Daily Updated Deals 🔥 Exclusive Discounts & Offers 🛒 Easy Access to Top-Selling Products ⚡ Fast Link to Purchase Don’t Miss Out on This Wellness eBook Deals! Click now to grab the best wellness discounts before they’re gone! View Latest Deals --- ## Forex Trading for Biginners URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/forex-trading-for-biginners/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-08 The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Forex Trading – How to Go from Zero to Pro in 2026 📌 Introduction The Forex trading market is the largest financial market in the world, with over $7.5 trillion traded daily. Yet, nearly 80% of retail traders lose money — not because Forex is impossible to master, but because they jump in without a proper roadmap. Forex Tradinf For Beginners is here to fix that. At SK Markets Inc., we believe that with the right education, anyone can learn to trade currency markets profitably. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced trader looking to refine your system, this guide will walk you through exactly how to go from zero to pro in Forex trading. If you’re looking for a complete, structured learning path, check out our Ultimate Guide to Forex Trading eBook — packed with 120+ pages of actionable strategies, templates, and checklists. 📖 What Is Forex Trading? Forex trading (foreign exchange trading) is the act of buying one currency while simultaneously selling another. Currencies are traded in pairs — for example, EUR/USD, GBP/JPY, or AUD/CAD. The goal? Profit from fluctuations in exchange rates. Unlike stock markets, Forex operates 24 hours a day, 5 days a week, making it ideal for part-time and full-time traders alike. To understand the basics in more depth, read our Forex for Beginners guide. 🧭 Step 1: Build a Strong Foundation Before placing your first trade, you must understand the core building blocks of the Forex market: 💡 External Resource: Investopedia’s Forex Basics — a trusted source for definitions. 📊 Step 2: Master Technical Analysis Technical analysis is the art of reading price charts to predict future movements. Here are the essential tools every trader needs: Candlestick Patterns Patterns like Doji, Hammer, Engulfing, and Morning Star can signal reversals or continuations. Learn how to read them in our Candlestick Patterns Guide. Indicators RSI (Relative Strength Index) — Measures overbought/oversold conditions MACD — Tracks trend direction and momentum EMA (Exponential Moving Average) — Identifies trend support and resistance Support & Resistance Key price levels where the market tends to reverse or consolidate. Learn to draw them manually — no indicator can replace a trained eye. 🔗 Deepen your skills with our Technical Analysis Toolkit. 🌍 Step 3: Understand Fundamental Analysis While technical analysis tells you where the price might go, fundamental analysis tells you why. Key fundamental drivers: Interest Rate Decisions by central banks (Fed, ECB, BOJ) Employment Data (NFP, unemployment rate) GDP & Inflation Reports Geopolitical Events and market sentiment Traders who combine both technical and fundamental analysis consistently outperform those who rely on just one. 📎 External Resource: BabyPips Forex School — one of the best free educational platforms for fundamentals. 🛡️ Step 4: Master Risk Management This is the single most important skill in Forex trading. Without proper risk management, even the best strategy will fail. Golden Rules of Risk Management Rule Recommendation Risk per trade 1%–2% of your account balance Risk-to-Reward Ratio Minimum 1:2 (aim for 1:3 or higher) Stop-Loss Always set it — never trade without one Drawdown Limit Stop trading if you hit a 10–15% drawdown 📎 Download our Free Risk Management Calculator — an editable Excel/Google Sheets template. 📎 For a deeper dive, read our Risk Management Strategies Guide. 🎯 Step 5: Choose a Trading Style Not all trading styles suit all personalities. Here are the three most common: Style Timeframe Holding Period Best For Scalping 1-min to 5-min charts Seconds to minutes Fast-paced, high-focus traders Day Trading 5-min to 1-hour charts Minutes to hours Those who trade full-time Swing Trading 4-hour to daily charts Days to weeks Part-time traders, busy professionals 📎 Compare these styles in detail in our Trading Style Comparison Guide. 🧠 Step 6: Develop Trading Psychology Your mindset determines your success more than your strategy. Common psychological traps: Revenge Trading — Trying to “get even” after a loss FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) — Jumping into trades without a setup Overconfidence — Increasing position size after a winning streak “The market is a device for transferring money from the impatient to the patient.” — Warren Buffett 📎 Build discipline with our Trading Psychology Guide. 🌐 External Resource: TradingPsychologyEDGE — expert insights on emotional control in trading. 📓 Step 7: Backtest & Journal Every Trade Professional traders don’t guess — they test. Use a trading journal to record: Entry and exit rationale Screenshots of the chart setup Emotional state at the time of trade Lessons learned (win or lose) 📎 Get our Free Trading Journal Template to start tracking your progress today. 🏁 Conclusion Going from zero to pro in Forex trading isn’t about finding a magic indicator or a secret strategy. It’s about: ✅ Building a strong foundation of knowledge ✅ Mastering technical & fundamental analysis ✅ Practicing disciplined risk management ✅ Choosing a trading style that fits your life ✅ Developing psychological resilience ✅ Reviewing and improving continuously If you’re ready to fast-track your learning, grab the Ultimate Guide to Forex Trading eBook — a complete, step-by-step system with actionable strategies, templates, and a clear roadmap from beginner to profitable trader. 📌 Related Reading on SK Markets Inc.: Forex for Beginners Guide Swing Trading Strategies Day Trading Tips & Setups Technical Analysis Tools Trading Success Habits   --- ## Foliage and more flower spikes-Plus my final book talk URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/foliage-and-more-flower-spikes-plus-my-final-book-talk/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-07 When silver Mediterranean fan palm starts blooming, its Cheeto-like panicles seem to glow amid the frosty fronds. The post Foliage and more flower spikes, plus my final book talk appeared first on Digging. April 15, 2026 When the silver Mediterranean fan palm (Chamaerops humilis var. argentea) starts blooming, its Cheeto-like panicles seem to glow amid the frosty fronds. Leaning in for a closer view is hazardous. The stiff leaf stems are armored with thorns. Thank goodness for zoom lenses. One of my favorite native plants, purple skullcap (Scutellaria wrightii), is bushy and flowering again, as is stripey ‘Bright Edge’ yucca behind it. Or rather, the yucca was trying to flower. Deer snapped two of its bloom stalks like asparagus spears last night. They’ll be back for the rest tonight. Eat them, I don’t care. I’m just grateful they don’t eat purple skullcap. In the back garden, my biggest beaked yucca (Yucca rostrata ‘Sapphire Skies’) is flowering in a big way. I bet each bloom spike is 4 feet tall. Beside it, ‘Wonderful’ pomegranate is covered in smoldering flowers. Ka-pow! I’ve got two other Yucca rostrata in the back garden, and the taller of the two is flowering. The yellow bloom spikes in front belong to a yellow variety of our common red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora). They show up beautifully against the dark coyote fence. Mexican hat (Ratibida columnifera), a native wildflower, adds more yellow in the stock-tank planter. There’s a maroon-and-yellow variety in there too, which I like better. The three soap aloes (Aloe maculata) in the chimney bed have been flowering steadily for over a month with sequential candelabras of blooms. As each one fades, I cut it off, and soon another appears. ‘Desert Dusk’ red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora ‘Desert Dusk’) adds its own darker red to the mix, and there’s Galeana sage (Salvia darcyi) starting to blaze up in the middle-back. ‘Desert Dusk’ hesperaloe’s flower spike with ‘Frosty Blue’ whale’s tongue agave — a song of ice and fire. Yes, with a nod to George R.R. Martin. Book Tour Events Heads up, Central Texas gardeners: I have ONE more speaking event for the launch of Gardens of Texas. And huzzah — it’s free! Come see me, get gardening inspiration, and if you like, purchase a signed copy of the book. Here are the details: April 18, 10:00-11:30 am – Cedar Park Presentation: Cedar Park Parks & Rec event< --- ## Good Neighbors Julia Lucey art at Wally Workman Gallery URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/good-neighbors-julia-luceys-art-at-wally-workman-gallery/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-07 Julia Lucey’s colorful, nature-centric collages of plants and animals are on display at Wally Workman Gallery in Austin.… Read More The post Good Neighbors: Julia Lucey art at Wally Workman Gallery appeared first on Digging. March 28, 2026 (image) Whenever mixed-media artist Julia Lucey has a show at Austin’s Wally Workman Gallery, I make time to go. I enjoy Lucey’s colorful, nature-centric collages of plants and animals native to her California home. (image) Such detail in these layered etchings. Her current exhibition is called Good Neighbors: “A deceivingly playful body of work, the eye is drawn to the bright colors and intricate details of Lucey’s craft, but the underlying messages reference the serious issues facing wildlife and the environment today. Living on the wooded edges of the Bay Area, Lucey depicts a crossroads where the wild and domestic meet. Her pieces are bisected with fences, cages and walls, showing how we attempt to enjoy—yet safeguard ourselves from—our native neighbors. This encroachment has repercussions and muddles our conception of what belongs and what does not. Despite the challenges, Lucey’s work evokes a sense of hope that we can learn to be better stewards of what we—and they—call home.” (image) Here’s a sampling of my faves. I absolutely adore the coyote in the labyrinth (at top of page). Which is your favorite? Aren’t they wonderful? You can see them at Wally Workman through April 4th. Book Tour Events Heads up, Central Texas gardeners: I have ONE more speaking event for the launch of Gardens of Texas. And huzzah — it’s free! Come see me, get gardening inspiration, and if you like, purchase a signed copy of the book. Here are the details: April 18, 10:00-11:30 am – Cedar Park Presentation: Cedar Park Parks & Rec event Register for this free talk (limited seating); select Gardening 101: Gardens of Texas Updated address: Cedar Park City Hall Building #3, 450 Cypress Creek Rd., Cedar Park, TX 78613 Drawing from the visionary landscapes in Gardens of Texas, I’ll share how resilient gardeners are embracing change, shifting their plant palette, nurturing wildlife, and finding deeper joy in the process. I’ll have books for sale and signing at the talk. Free and open to the public. I welcome your comments. Please scroll to the end of this post to leave one. If you’re reading in an email,  --- ## Austin’s new Wishbone Bridge and mosaic art tunnel URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/austins-new-wishbone-bridge-and-mosaic-art-tunnel/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-07 Austin’s new Wishbone Bridge connects the Hike-and-Bike Trail on Lady Bird Lake and adds mosaic art and murals in a pedestrian tunnel.… Read More The post Austin’s new Wishbone Bridge and mosaic art tunnel appeared first on Digging. March 19, 2026 (image) Austin’s Hike-and-Bike Trail users long wished for completion of a trail gap at the east end of Lady Bird Lake. That wish finally came true this year with the opening of the Wishbone Bridge and underpass at Pleasant Valley Road. I was curious about the Y-shaped bridge and mosaic-decorated tunnel, so one afternoon I headed to the lake. Wishbone Bridge (image) The bridge’s 3-spoke design includes a central plaza with shade sails and benches — a perfect spot for people-watching on the water. The appealing design makes the bridge more than a passageway. It’s a destination in itself. (image) A lot of sun still gets through the shade sails and wire trellises for now. (image) But crossvine planted on the columns is scrambling up to cloak the wire roof. Give it a couple years. (image) Sleek wooden benches with colorful legs add a stylish touch, although I wish more of them had backs for comfortable relaxing. Unity Tunnel (image) One of the bridge’s paths runs under busy Pleasant Valley Road, providing pedestrian access via a tunnel. (image) Houston artist Reginald Adams made tile mosaics for it, starting with hand prints decorating the outer rim. (image) The murals were as-yet ungrouted when I visited, but the colorful designs were set in place. (image) In the tunnel, mosaics symbolizing East Austin and Texas, like this longhorn, unfurl along the walls. (image) Bluebonnets and a full moon (image) Cowboys (image) Prickly pear cactus (image) An embracing abuelo and abuela (image) Mischievous raccoons (image) Bats emerging from under Congress Avenue Bridge Here’s one side of the tunnel. The artist’s website explains the concept: “The Absolute Equality: Unity Tunnel is a love letter to the people of Austin, transforming a once ordinary underpass into a vibrant corridor of collective memory, artistic expression, and cultural pride. Every image within the murals w --- ## My article “Home Turf” is in Better Homes & Gardens magazine URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/my-article-home-turf-is-in-better-homes-gardens-magazine/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-07 Bring more pollinators, plants, and beauty into your life. My article “Home Turf” in Better Homes & Gardens has ideas for lawn alternatives.… Read More The post My article “Home Turf” is in Better Homes & Gardens magazine appeared first on Digging. March 14, 2026 (image) If you read Better Homes & Gardens magazine, look for my article “Home Turf” in the April 2026 issue. For anyone thinking about shrinking the lawn or ditching it altogether, the article offers alternatives guaranteed to bring more pollinators, more plants, more beauty, and — yay! — less mowing and chemicals into your life. (image) Thank you to editor Miranda Crowell for the assignment and to Adam Woodruff, John Hart Asher, Edwina von Gal, Kathy Jentz, and Benjamin Vogt for their quotable insights. Book Tour Events I’m doing three more public speaking events for the launch of Gardens of Texas this spring. And huzzah — they’re free! Come see me, get gardening inspiration, and if you like, purchase a signed copy of the book. March 21, 10:30 am to noon – Bulverde Panel discussion: Hill Country Literary Festival Mammen Family Public Library 131 Bulverde Crossing, Bulverde, TX, 78163 Join me for the festival’s Nature’s Narrative panel, where I’ll be in conversation about writing Gardens of Texas. Stay for a book sale and signing hosted through Nowhere Bookshop. This annual literary festival just north of San Antonio is free and offers a full day of author panels, book sales, workshops, food trucks, and more. ______________________________________ March 24, 6:30-8:30 pm – Fredericksburg Presentation: Native Plant Society of Texas, Fredericksburg Chapter 212 W San Antonio St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 I’m heading to the Hill Country to share inspiration and practical lessons from the resilient and beautiful gardens featured in Gardens of Texas. I’ll have books for sale and signing at the talk. Free and open to the public. ______________________________________ April 18, 10:00-11:30 am – Cedar Park Presentation: Cedar Park Parks & Rec event Register for this free talk (limited seating); select Gardening 101: Gardens of Texas Updated address: Cedar Park City Hall Building #3, 450 Cypress Creek Rd., Cedar Park, TX 78613 It’s hot, it’s cold, there’s drought and flood. It’s challenging to garden in Texas! And the weather is growing ever more extreme. So how should Texas gardeners adapt? Drawing from the visionary landscapes in my new book, Gardens of Texas, I’ll share how resilient gardeners are embracing change, shifting their plant palette, nurturing wildlife, and finding deeper joy in the process. I Related Articles: Amazon Deals Related Pages: Real PPV Web Traffic --- ## 📘The Ultimate Guide to Forex Trading from Beginner to Pro URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/product/the-ultimate-guide-to-forex-trading-from-biginner-to-pro/ Type: product Modified: 2026-05-02 Learn Forex from Zero to Pro — Step-by-Step, Practical & Profitable 🚀 Master the Global Currency Markets with [skmarkets Inc/forex-guide] Step into the world of global currency markets with The Ultimate Guide to Forex Trading. This comprehensive eBook is designed for beginners and aspiring traders who want to master the fundamentals of Forex Trading and build profitable strategies. 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This eBook includes easy-to-follow nutrition plans, helpful explanations, and meal ideas to support your goals—whether you’re focusing on weight management, strength building, or overall wellness. 🥑🍗🍚 🗺️ Your Personal Roadmap to Results With clear instructions and motivational support, this eBook becomes your go-to roadmap—helping you stay on track and progress toward long-term health goals. 🌟 🔎 SEO Keyphrases & Keywords The Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Nutrition is optimized for readers searching for: fitness and nutrition guide beginner fitness program nutrition plan for fat loss muscle building workouts healthy meal ideas weight management strategies how to eat for fitness sustainable healthy lifestyle fitness tips for beginners energy boosting nutrition 🏷️ Hashtags to Boost Visibility #FitnessAndNutrition 2026 #HealthyLifestyle #BeginnerFitness #MealPlans #FatLossJourney #MuscleBuilding #StrengthTraining #WellnessGoals #NutritionTips #GymMotivation #HealthyEating #FitnessMotivation #SuccessKingMarketinc #DigitalShop #OneStopShop ⭐ Why This eBook Stands Out This eBook doesn’t just give information—it gives actionable steps, practical meal guidance, and motivation strategies to help you build real results you can sustain. ✅🔥   --- ## 20 years of blogging—and a new chapter begins URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/20-years-of-blogging-and-a-new-chapter-begins/ Type: post Modified: 2026-04-21 Digging turned 20 years old on Valentine’s Day. That’s two decades of showing up—daily or weekly—to blog about my garden. Like gardening, blogging is a practice of observation, stewardship, and creativity. Just as importantly, it’s a conversation with you, the reader. I’m grateful for everyone who’s been here—especially those of you who’ve followed Digging for years. You’ve made my usually solitary gardening life feel richer. And I’m looking forward to continuing this blog for as long as I can, even with the technical challenges and costs that come with keeping it going. (Read more in last year’s blogiversary post.) A new chapter Now, I’ve buried the lede. After 17 years in this home/garden and 32 years in Austin, I’m moving. My husband and I are relocating to Denver, Colorado—closer to our two grown children, and nearer the mountains our family has long loved visiting. I realize this may be surprising (or even sad) for those who’ve followed my gardening journey in Texas. Uprooting from a place you love is hard. Leaving friends and family is emotionally wrenching. I will miss them. I will miss Austin. I will miss Texas. What I’ll miss—and why I’ll miss Tex-Mex, H‑E‑B, mild winters, and spring-fed swimming holes. I’ll miss the laid-back creative spirit of Austin, the friendliness of its people, and the owls we share the garden with. Most of all, I’ll miss the neighbors and community that have nurtured me for three decades. What I’m looking forward to Moving is also exciting. I’m eager to have my kids over for family dinners again. I’m ready to explore a new region, experience four seasons, settle into a new home, and start a new garden. Denver’s climate will be a big adjustment—far more arid than Austin’s, and at a mile above sea level, with its own set of challenges to learn. Still, I look forward to the journey, and to reconnecting with Colorado gardeners I’ve already met and learning from new ones. My garden, and letting go As for my garden: I’m at peace with leaving it. My stewardship is ending—though I knew that day would come. The new owner will make it theirs in whatever way works best for them. That’s the privilege of ownership, and that’s how it should be. After all, a garden is the gardener. It wouldn’t remain the same, even if it continued in its current form. For me, though, I’m carrying it forward—in my heart, my lived experience, my knowledge, and everything I’ve written. In that way, it will live on. Join me next I hope you’ll follow along as I start over with a new, smaller garden in a place that gets about 14 inches of precipitation per year (compared to Austin’s 34). I’ll also be working with a real winter—and (gulp) a hail season. There are challenges ahead, and I’m ready. Keyphrases / Keywords Digging blog anniversary, moving from Austin to Denver, gardening journey, starting a new garden, clematis and plants (gardening), arid climate / four seasons, hail season / Colorado gardening, leaving my garden / stewardship, community of gardeners, reconnecting with family Hashtags #Gardening #Blogging #GardeningJourney #AustinTX #DenverCO #ColoradoGardening #HomeAndGarden #PlantLovers #Clematis #PerennialGarden #GardenStewardship #NewBeginnings #FourSeasons #AridClimate Check Our Website; Success King Marketing Inc Related Posts: My article “Home Turf” is in Better Homes & Gardens magazine --- ## Breaking Ground: How to Build a Thriving Practice Without Feeling “Salesy” URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/breaking-ground-how-to-build-a-thriving-practice-without-feeling-salesy/ Type: post Modified: 2026-04-05 Breaking Ground: How to Build a Thriving Practice Without Feeling “Salesy” written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch interviews Deborah Farone, founder of Farone Advisors and author of Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices. The conversation explores why traditional approaches to business development often fail—especially in professional services—and how authenticity, relationships, and strategic positioning can lead to […] Breaking Ground: How to Build a Thriving Practice Without Feeling “Salesy” written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketin ( ) Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch interviews Deborah Farone, founder of Farone Advisors and author of Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices. The conversation explores why traditional approaches to business development often fail—especially in professional services—and how authenticity, relationships, and strategic positioning can lead to sustainable success. Deborah Farone shares insights from her work with top-performing professionals and highlights how business development is less about selling and more about building trust, creating meaningful connections, and developing a niche. While her research focuses on women in law, the lessons apply broadly to consultants, agency owners, and service-based professionals. Guest Bio Deborah Farone is the founder of Farone Advisors and a leading expert in legal business development and marketing. She has held senior business development roles at major law firms and has spent her career helping professionals grow their practices through strategic relationship-building. Her book, Breaking Ground, draws on interviews with successful women lawyers around the world to uncover practical strategies for building a thriving, authentic practice. Key Takeaways 1. Business Development Isn’t About “Selling” Most professionals resist sales because it feels inauthentic. The most successful practitioners focus on helping, supporting, and providing value rather than asking for business directly. 2. Relationships Are the Foundation of Growth Strong networks—not just direct prospects—drive opportunities. Often, the people who refer or connect you matter more than immediate buyers. 3. Authenticity Outperforms Scripts There is no one-size-fits-all approach. The best strategy is one aligned with your personality and interests, making it sustainable and repeatable. 4. Trust Is Built on Three Core Elements Expertise Authenticity Empathy These elements consistently show up in successful business development strategies. 5. You Don’t Have to Be Outgoing to Succeed Introverts can excel by choosing methods that feel natural—like small meetings, coffee chats, or shared-interest activities. 6. Start Small and Build Confidence Business development is a skill that improves over time. Begin with low-pressure conversations and gradually expand your comfort zone. 7. Your Network Is Bigger Than You Think. Get Your Copy Of:A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Business Success --- ## Build a Business People Can’t Imagine Losing URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/build-a-business-people-cant-imagine-losing/ Type: post Modified: 2026-04-05 Build a Business People Can’t Imagine Losing written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch The Full Episode:   Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch interviews Marcus Buckingham, renowned researcher, strengths movement pioneer, and bestselling author, about his latest book, Design Love In: How to Unleash the Most Powerful Force in Business. While “love” may seem like an unconventional business term, Buckingham […] Build a Business People Can’t Imagine Losing written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch The Full Episode:   (image) Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch interviews Marcus Buckingham, renowned researcher, strengths movement pioneer, and bestselling author, about his latest book, Design Love In: How to Unleash the Most Powerful Force in Business. While “love” may seem like an unconventional business term, Buckingham makes a research-backed case that love is the strongest predictor of productive human behavior. From customer loyalty to employee engagement and retention, organizations that intentionally design experiences people love consistently outperform those that focus solely on process, perks, or performance metrics. Buckingham introduces Experience Intelligence, a leadership capability centered on intentionally designing holistic experiences that drive emotional connection and lasting behavioral change. He also outlines a five-part emotional blueprint leaders can use to engineer loyalty, advocacy, and sustainablegrowth. If you want to build a business customers cannot imagine living without, and a workplace employees genuinely love, this episode delivers a practical and strategic roadmap. About Marcus Buckingham Marcus Buckingham is a globally recognized researcher on high performance at work and a pioneer of the strengths-based leadership movement. He is the author of multiple bestselling books and has spent decades studying what drives exceptional team performance, employee engagement, and customer loyalty. In Design Love In, Buckingham presents research demonstrating that love, not engagement, satisfaction, or respect, is the most powerful predictor of positive human behavior in business. Learn more: designlovein.com Key Takeaways Love is predictive. Satisfaction and respect are positive, but love most reliably drives loyalty and advocacy. The “five” is what matters. On a 1 to 5 scale, behavior changes when people move from a 4 to a 5. Measure love with a high bar: “I can’t imagine a world without ____.” Leaders are experience makers. The question is whether you design experiences skillfully. Experiences drive behavior, not directives. Sustainable change comes from how people feel while moving through your system. Moments do not change behavior. Internalized experiences form a story that drives action. Use the five feelings blueprint to design onboarding, sales, and customer journeys. Process design often kills experience. Handoffs and silos create fragmented, transactional interactions. Experience Intelligence is a strategic advantage. Designing for love helps you stand out and win. The Five Feelings Blueprint Use these five feelings in sequence to design experiences people love: Control. “What is this world, and how do I work it?” Harmony. “Does this experience understand what I’m feeling?” Significance. “Do you know my story, and does it matter?” Warmth of Others. “Who is here to help me?” Growth. “Am I more capable tomorrow than I was today?” This sequence becomes a practical blueprint for designing onboarding, sales processes, cust --- ## Why Voice AI Is Ready for Prime Time URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-voice-ai-is-ready-for-prime-time/ Type: post Modified: 2026-04-05 Why Voice AI Is Ready for Prime Time written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the Full Episode: Episode Overview Voice agents are rapidly evolving from novelty tools into core revenue infrastructure. Instead of functioning as glorified talking FAQs, today’s AI voice systems can serve as qualifiers, schedulers, concierges, onboarding guides, retention reps, and upsell assistants. In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch interviews Ryan […] Why Voice AI Is Ready for Prime Time written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the Full Episode: (image) Episode Overview Voice agents are rapidly evolving from novelty tools into core revenue infrastructure. Instead of functioning as glorified talking FAQs, today’s AI voice systems can serve as qualifiers, schedulers, concierges, onboarding guides, retention reps, and upsell assistants. In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch interviews Ryan Mrha, founder of Yodify, a platform that enables creators and brands to stay personal at scale through AI-powered voice and text agents trained on their content libraries. Mrha explains why purpose-built voice agents outperform generic AI tools, how multi-layered LLM orchestration reduces hallucinations, and where businesses can safely begin experimenting with voice AI. The conversation explores the future of buyer behavior, the role of AI in modern sales processes, ethical transparency considerations, and practical implementation strategies for agencies and creators alike. If you’re curious about where voice AI fits in your marketing, sales, or customer experience strategy, this episode delivers both vision and practical guidance. About Ryan Mrha Ryan Mrha is the founder of Yodify, a platform that helps creators and brands maintain personal engagement at scale. Yodify allows followers to call or text an AI agent that speaks in the creator’s own voice, grounded in their existing content library. By combining voice cloning, multi-layer LLM orchestration, and structured prompt engineering, Mrha focuses on building purpose-driven AI agents that feel authentic, aligned with brand voice, and capable of performing specific business roles. He is also involved in launching Methodiq, a platform focused on AI-powered facilitation experiences. Key Takeaways 1. Voice Agents Are Moving from Novelty to Revenue Infrastructure Businesses should stop thinking of voice AI as a talking FAQ and start treating it as a role within the organization, such as a business development rep, onboarding assistant, or scheduler. 2. Generic AI Tools Deliver Poor Results Without Role Design Simply uploading a knowledge base and prompting “act like John” produces inconsistent outcomes. Effective voice agents require: Defined job descriptions Multiple orchestrated LLM layers Targeted prompts for specific states or roles Structured knowledge access 3. Multi-LLM Architecture Reduces Hallucinations Instead of relying on a single large prompt, Yodify breaks tasks into targeted LLM calls, such as orchestration, action execution, and response generation. This improves accuracy and reduces hallucination risk. 4. Buyer Behavior Is Changing Modern buyers prefer to: Conduct independent research Avoid early-stage sales conversations Engage only when close to making a decision Voice agents can provide 24/7 answers without hard selling, aligning perfectly with this shift in buyer psychology. 5. Transparency May Become a Competitive Advantage There is still tension around whether users feel “duped” when speaking to AI. However, proactively positioning a voice agent as an “AI advisor” may enhance trust and acceptance. 6. Start Small with Clear Use Cases The best way to implement voice AI is through a focused, low-risk pilot: A receptionist agent Appointment scheduling A simple qualification call flow A basic single-prompt LLM test Start narrow. Prove ROI. Then expand. 7. Voice AI Is Especially Valuable for Creators As creators scale, personal interaction becomes impossible. Voice agents allow --- ## The Money Habit: Why Financial Stress Isn’t About Math URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-money-habit-why-financial-stress-isnt-about-math/ Type: post Modified: 2026-04-05 The Money Habit: Why Financial Stress Isn’t About Math written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch sits down with bestselling author Mike Michalowicz to discuss his latest book, The Money Habit: The Worry-Free Way to Financial Independence. While Mike’s previous work (Profit First) revolutionized how entrepreneurs manage business finances, this conversation shifts focus to personal money management—and why […] The Money Habit: Why Financial Stress Isn’t About Math written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing (image) Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, John Jantsch sits down with bestselling author Mike Michalowicz to discuss his latest book, The Money Habit: The Worry-Free Way to Financial Independence. While Mike’s previous work (Profit First) revolutionized how entrepreneurs manage business finances, this conversation shifts focus to personal money management—and why so many people still feel anxious about money despite earning more. Mike reveals that financial stress isn’t primarily about income or math—it’s about behavior, habits, and lack of control. He introduces a system rooted in behavioral psychology that helps individuals take authority over their money without relying on strict discipline or deprivation. The discussion explores the connection between business and personal finances, the flaws of traditional budgeting, and how simple structural changes—like separating money by purpose—can create clarity, reduce anxiety, and build long-term financial independence. Guest Bio Mike Michalowicz is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and financial systems expert dedicated to helping business owners and individuals gain control over their finances. He is the author of multiple influential books including Profit First, Clockwork, Fix This Next, and All In. His work has been adopted by over a million businesses worldwide. Through his latest book, The Money Habit, Mike expands his methodology into personal finance, focusing on behavioral systems that reduce financial stress and create sustainable wealth habits. Key Takeaways 1. Financial Stress Is Behavioral, Not Mathematical Most people assume more income will solve financial problems. Mike argues the opposite—financial stability comes from gaining control over money first, then increasing income. 2. More Money Doesn’t Fix Poor Money Habits Without systems in place, both businesses and households can “leech” from each other, leading to financial instability even when income is high. 3. Discipline Often Backfires Strict budgeting and deprivation can lead to two outcomes: Rebellion (overspending) Scarcity mindset (hoarding money without enjoying it) 4. Systems Beat Willpower Instead of changing behavior, Mike advocates for “behavioral intercepts”—systems that guide natural behavior toward better outcomes. 5. Your Bank Account Is Your Most-Used Financial Tool Rather than relying on apps or spreadsheets, Mike suggests structuring mult --- ## Small town marketing secret: Have something to invite people to URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/small-town-marketing-secret-have-something-to-invite-people-to/ Type: post Modified: 2026-03-23 People need a compelling reason to leave their homes and come experience your business with you. This feels like a very heavy lift. . You’re supposed to be exciting enough to pull people away from their phones, their families and the comfort of online shopping. You’re competing with everything else demanding their attention. Here’s the […] People need a compelling reason to leave their homes and come experience your business with you. This feels like a very heavy lift. (image) A local furniture store hosts two temporary businesses for a special shopping event, combining business-in-a-business and pop-ups to give more people a reason to leave their house. Photo by Becky McCray. . You’re supposed to be exciting enough to pull people away from their phones, their families and the comfort of online shopping. You’re competing with everything else demanding their attention. Here’s the big secret: You don’t have to create all that energy yourself. Piggyback on What’s Already Happening Your community probably already has regular events that pull people out of their homes. Art walks. First Fridays. Girls night out shopping events. Farmers markets. Chamber mixers. People are already planning to attend these, or thinking about it. Some are already coming downtown or to your area. Your job is to give them one more reason to show up. (image) Sidewalk musicians give just one more reason for customers to leave their homes and join the experience. Photo by Becky McCray. . What Doesn’t Work: Just staying open during the community event No experience. No transformation. Just… open, like you are every other day. That’s not enough. What Does Work: Make a Thing out of it You have to create something special that happens during that regular community event. Here are ideas: Demos – Product demos, technique demonstrations, how-to sessions Mini services – super quick fashion nails, or 5 minute financial boost Meet the experts – A real estate agent hosting “meet the lenders.” A feed store bringing in a vet for cattle health Q&A during the farmers market. Workshops or mini-classes – Quick skill-building sessions people can actually use. Sounds like a lot for a shopping day, so keep it light and quick. Make and take projects – People love leaving with something they created Trunk shows or special collection reveals – Show merchandise you don’t normally carry Live entertainment – Music, performances, even personal star chart readings (yes, really – Gen Z is into astrology and all that) Tasting or sampling events – Let people experience your products Q&A sessions or “ask me anything” – Be available for real questions Behind-the-scenes tours – Show them what they don’t normally see (people love back room tours) Out of town big names – Bring in expertise people want to hear from Pick one. Make it yours. Do a fresh edition of it every time that community event happens. You become the tipping point Someone was thinking about coming to art walk. Then they heard you’re doing that demo they’ve been curious about. Now they’re definitely coming. You’re not competing for attention. You’re adding value to something people already plan to attend. Or at least thought about attending. And here’s your new go-to move: When anyone expresses interest in your business but never seems to make it in person? Don’t just “follow up.” Invite them to your special thing during the next community event. “Hey, I’m doing a live demo during First Friday – would love to see you there!” You still have to do your regular marketing like mailing postcards, sharing photos, but you’re supercharging it with a deadline. And then you’re layering it with repeated messages. “Our demo was packed! We’re doing another (a little different) next month!” (image) Frame --- ## Want to Open a Cafe? Start With Wing Night Wednesdays URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/want-to-open-a-cafe-start-with-wing-night-wednesdays/ Type: post Modified: 2026-03-23 You want to open a place to eat in your small town. Maybe a coffee shop, a little cafe, a bakery. You’ve been thinking about it for months, maybe years. But you’re not sure if enough people will come. You don’t know what they’ll actually order. You’re not certain you can handle running it day […] You want to open a place to eat in your small town. Maybe a coffee shop, a little cafe, a bakery. You’ve been thinking about it for months, maybe years. But you’re not sure if enough people will come. You don’t know what they’ll actually order. You’re not certain you can handle running it day after day. Here’s how to find out before you spend serious money: borrow the community hall and start testing. (image) The county fair dinner is not a bad model for trying out a restaurant concept in a small town. Photo by Becky McCray Try Wing Night Wednesdays (or make it your own) At the Canadian Beef Industry Conference, a couple from a town of just a few hundred people mapped out their action on one of my postcards: Gather our crowd in our community hall for Wing Night Wednesdays Build connections to make plans for a successful business Take small steps: talk to community members and send invites Before they left the conference, they’d texted someone about using the hall. By the next day, they had permission and had recruited friends to help make wings and invite others. They’re testing whether their town wants a place to eat, and they’re doing it without buying equipment, signing a lease, or quitting their jobs. What you learn Running regular meetups at the community hall tells you things you can’t learn any other way: Do people actually show up? You might think everyone wants a coffee shop, but will they come out on a Tuesday morning for Coffee and Pastries? What do people want? You’re planning a lunch place, but you discover people keep asking if you’re open for breakfast. What time works? You thought dinner would be big, but your town empties out at 6 PM because everyone’s at their kids’ activities. Can you handle it? Cooking for 20 people once a week is different than running a daily operation. This lets you test your own capacity. What does it actually cost? You’ll learn your food costs, your time investment, what you can charge, and whether the math works. Who are your customers? Maybe you’re targeting families but it’s retired folks who show up consistently. Build your base before you open Here’s the bonus: everyone who comes to Wing Night Wednesdays is a potential customer when you do open. You’re not starting from zero trying to convince strangers to try your new place. You’ve already got relationships. They know your food. They trust you. They’ve been rooting for you to make this happen. Some of them might even invest or help when you’re ready to take the next step. You don’t need much to start Can’t afford a food truck or trailer? Don’t need one yet. Most small towns have a community hall, church kitchen, or VFW post you can use. Some will let you use it for free or minimal cost, especially if you’re serving the community. All you need is enough to make your test menu. Wings and fries. Coffee and muffins. Soup and sandwiches. Whatever you’re planning to serve. Start monthly if weekly f --- ## Contact URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/contact/ Type: page Modified: 2026-03-20 Contact Us We’d love to connect with you! At Success King Marketing Inc, we value every question, suggestion, and idea from our readers and partners. Whether you’re looking for support, have feedback on our e-books, or simply want to say hello, we’re just a message away. 📩 Get in Touch Email: info@skmarketsinc.com Phone: +31-687577442 Office Address: Isaak Gosseshof 10-2, Netherlands 1065XG 🌐 Stay Connected Follow us on social media for the latest updates, new e-book releases, and tips for success: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skminc.01 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skminc/# Pinterest: https://nl.pinterest.com/awungngang/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/skminc Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@successkingmarketinginc5078 Or simply fill out the contact form below and our team will get back to you as soon as possible. Because at Success King Marketing Inc, your growth is our priority. Your name Your email Subject Your message (optional) Δ × --- ## The Marketing Operating System: Why Strategy Alone Isn’t Enough Anymore URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-marketing-operating-system-why-strategy-alone-isnt-enough-anymore/ Type: post Modified: 2026-03-04 The Marketing Operating System: Why Strategy Alone Isn’t Enough Anymore written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing How to Move From Random Acts of Marketing to a Scalable, Predictable Growth System Table of Contents Introduction: Strategy Isn’t the Problem When Marketing Lacks a System, Everything Feels Harder Why Strategy Alone Falls Short What Is a Marketing Operating System? The 5 Core Components of a Marketing Operating System 1. Strategy First 2. Campaign […] The Marketing Operating System: Why Strategy Alone Isn’t Enough Anymore written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing How to Move From Random Acts of Marketing to a Scalable, Predictable Growth System Table of Contents Introduction: Strategy Isn’t the Problem When Marketing Lacks a System, Everything Feels Harder Why Strategy Alone Falls Short What Is a Marketing Operating System? The 5 Core Components of a Marketing Operating System 1. Strategy First 2. Campaign Planning & Prioritization 3. Roles, Workflows & Operating Rhythm 4. Measurement That Informs Decisions 5. A Consistent Leadership Cadence Why AI Makes This More Urgent — Not Less What Changes When You Install a Marketing Operating System This Is a Leadership Conversation Conclusion: Less Friction, More Momentum FAQs: Marketing Operating System for Small Business Introduction: Strategy Isn’t the Problem For years, we’ve said it: Marketing is a system. Most business owners nod in agreement. But very few actually treat it like one. Instead, what we often find is this: campaigns are built in isolation, tools get added reactively, teams stay busy — but results stay unpredictable. The problem isn’t strategy. It’s the lack of a system to run that strategy. When Marketing Lacks a System, Everything Feels Harder If your marketing feels disorganized, reactive, or overly dependent on a few high-performers to hold it together, you’re not alone. That’s not a marketing problem. It’s a systems problem. Here’s what it looks like in the wild: Priorities change week to week Campaigns launch at the last minute Results are hard to explain or scale Tools and platforms aren’t integrated Leadership doesn’t know what to invest in next Even successful businesses experience this behind the scenes. Growth may be happening, but it’s fragile. It depends on effort and intuition, not structure. Why Strategy Alone Falls Short Most businesses have some kind of strategy — or at least a slide deck with one. But strategy doesn’t: Set monthly and quarterly priorities Assign ownership across people and teams Decide what gets launched — and what doesn’t Convert insight into repeatable execution Without a system, strategy becomes a one-time conversation instead of an ongoing guide. What Is a Marketing Operating System? A Marketing Operating System (MOS) is not software. It’s not a campaign calendar. And it’s not a tech stack. It’s a structured approach for running marketing — all year long. A solid MOS answers five essential questions: What matters most right now? Who owns what? How does work flow? How do we measure progress? How do we decide what to change next? When these questions are consistently answered, marketing stops being reactive and starts compounding. Want to find out if the MOS is right for your business? (image) The 5 Core Components of a Marketing Operating System Let’s break down what a functional, scalable MOS actu --- ## Sustainable Web Design, An Excerpt URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/sustainable-web-design-an-excerpt/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 In the 1950s, many in the elite running community had begun to believe it wasn’t possible to run a mile in less than four minutes. Runners had been attempting it since the late 19th century and were beginning to draw the conclusion that the human body simply wasn’t built for the task.  But on May 6, 1956, Roger Bannister took everyone by surprise. It was a cold, wet day in Oxford, England—conditions no one expected to lend themselves to record-setting—and yet Bannister did just that, running a mile in 3:59.4 and becoming the first person in the record books to run a mile in under four minutes.  This shift in the benchmark had profound effects; the world now knew that the four-minute mile was possible. Bannister’s record lasted only forty-six days, when it was snatched away by Australian runner John Landy. Then a year later, three runners all beat the four-minute barrier together in the same race. Since then, over 1,400 runners have officially run a mile in under four minutes; the current record is 3:43.13, held by Moroccan athlete Hicham El Guerrouj. We achieve far more when we believe that something is possible, and we will believe it’s possible only when we see someone else has already done it—and as with human running speed, so it is with what we believe are the hard limits for how a website needs to perform. Establishing standards for a sustainable web In most major industries, the key metrics of environmental performance are fairly well established, such as miles per gallon for cars or energy per square meter for homes. The tools and methods for calculating those metrics are standardized as well, which keeps everyone on the same page when doing environmental assessments. In the world of websites and apps, however, we aren’t held to any particular environmental standards, and only recently have gained the tools and methods we need to even make an environmental assessment. The primary goal in sustainable web design is to reduce carbon emissions. However, it’s almost impossible to actually measure the amount of CO2 produced by a web product. We can’t measure the fumes coming out of the exhaust pipes on our laptops. The emissions of our websites are far away, out of sight and out of mind, coming out of power stations burning coal and gas. We have no way to trace the electrons from a website or app back to the power station where the electricity is being generated and actually know the exact amount of greenhouse gas produced. So what do we do?  If we can’t measure the actual carbon emissions, then we need to find what we can measure. The primary factors that could be used as indicators of carbon emissions are: Data transfer Carbon intensity of electricity Let’s take a look at how we can use these metrics to quantify the energy consumption, and in turn the carbon footprint, of the websites and web apps we create. Data transfer Most researchers use kilowatt-hours per gigabyte (kWh/GB) as a metric of energy efficiency when measuring the amount of data transferred over the internet when a website or application is used. This provides a great reference point for energy consumption and carbon emissions. As a rule of thumb, the more data transferred, the more energy used in the data center, telecoms networks, and end user devices. For web pages, data transfer for a single visit can be most easily estimated by measuring the page weight, meaning the transfer size of the page in kilobytes the first time someone visits the page. It’s fairly easy to measure using the developer tools in any modern web browser. Often your web hosting account will include statistics for the total data transfer of any web application (Fig 2.1). --- ## Voice Content and Usability URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/voice-content-and-usability/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 We’ve been having conversations for thousands of years. Whether to convey information, conduct transactions, or simply to check in on one another, people have yammered away, chattering and gesticulating, through spoken conversation for countless generations. Only in the last few millennia have we begun to commit our conversations to writing, and only in the last few decades have we begun to outsource them to the computer, a machine that shows much more affinity for written correspondence than for the slangy vagaries of spoken language. Computers have trouble because between spoken and written language, speech is more primordial. To have successful conversations with us, machines must grapple with the messiness of human speech: the disfluencies and pauses, the gestures and body language, and the variations in word choice and spoken dialect that can stymie even the most carefully crafted human-computer interaction. In the human-to-human scenario, spoken language also has the privilege of face-to-face contact, where we can readily interpret nonverbal social cues. In contrast, written language immediately concretizes as we commit it to record and retains usages long after they become obsolete in spoken communication (the salutation “To whom it may concern,” for example), generating its own fossil record of outdated terms and phrases. Because it tends to be more consistent, polished, and formal, written text is fundamentally much easier for machines to parse and understand. Spoken language has no such luxury. Besides the nonverbal cues that decorate conversations with emphasis and emotional context, there are also verbal cues and vocal behaviors that modulate conversation in nuanced ways: how something is said, not what. Whether rapid-fire, low-pitched, or high-decibel, whether sarcastic, stilted, or sighing, our spoken language conveys much more than the written word could ever muster. So when it comes to voice interfaces—the machines we conduct spoken conversations with—we face exciting challenges as designers and content strategists. Voice Interactions We interact with voice interfaces for a variety of reasons, but according to Michael McTear, Zoraida Callejas, and David Griol in The Conversational Interface, those motivations by and large mirror the reasons we initiate conversations with other people, too (). Generally, we start up a conversation because: we need something done (such as a transaction),we want to know something (information of some sort), orwe are social beings and want someone to talk to (conversation for conversation’s sake). These three categories—which I call transactional, informational, and prosocial—also characterize essentially every voice interaction: a single conversation from beginning to end that realizes some outcome for the user, starting with the voice interface’s first greeting and ending with the user exiting the interface. Note here that a conversation in our human sense—a chat between people that leads to some result and lasts an arbitrary length of time—could encompass multiple transactional, informational, and prosocial voice interactions in succession. In other words, a voice interaction is a conversation, but a conversation is not necessarily a single voice interaction. Purely prosocial conversations are more gimmicky than captivating in most voice interfaces, because machines don’t yet have the capacity to really want to know how we’re doing and to do the sort of glad-handing humans crave. There’s also ongoing debate as to whether users actually prefer the sort of organic human conversation that begins with a prosocial voice interaction and shifts seamlessly into other types. In fact, in Voice User Interface Design, Michael Cohen, James Giangola, and Jennifer Balogh recommend sticking to users’ expectations by mimicking how they interact with other voice interfaces rather than trying too hard to be human—potentially alienating them in the process ( --- ## How to Sell UX Research with Two Simple Questions URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-to-sell-ux-research-with-two-simple-questions/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Do you find yourself designing screens with only a vague idea of how the things on the screen relate to the things elsewhere in the system? Do you leave stakeholder meetings with unclear directives that often seem to contradict previous conversations? You know a better understanding of user needs would help the team get clear on what you are actually trying to accomplish, but time and budget for research is tight. When it comes to asking for more direct contact with your users, you might feel like poor Oliver Twist, timidly asking, “Please, sir, I want some more.”  Here’s the trick. You need to get stakeholders themselves to identify high-risk assumptions and hidden complexity, so that they become just as motivated as you to get answers from users. Basically, you need to make them think it’s their idea.  In this article, I’ll show you how to collaboratively expose misalignment and gaps in the team’s shared understanding by bringing the team together around two simple questions: What are the objects?What are the relationships between those objects? A gauntlet between research and screen design These two questions align to the first two steps of the ORCA process, which might become your new best friend when it comes to reducing guesswork. Wait, what’s ORCA?! Glad you asked. ORCA stands for Objects, Relationships, CTAs, and Attributes, and it outlines a process for creating solid object-oriented user experiences. Object-oriented UX is my design philosophy. ORCA is an iterative methodology for synthesizing user research into an elegant structural foundation to support screen and interaction design. OOUX and ORCA have made my work as a UX designer more collaborative, effective, efficient, fun, strategic, and meaningful. The ORCA process has four iterative rounds and a whopping fifteen steps. In each round we get more clarity on our Os, Rs, Cs, and As. I sometimes say that ORCA is a “garbage in, garbage out” process. To ensure that the testable prototype produced in the final round actually tests well, the process needs to be fed by good research. But if you don’t have a ton of research, the beginning of the ORCA process serves another purpose: it helps you sell the need for research. In other words, the ORCA process serves as a gauntlet between research and design. With good research, you can gracefully ride the killer whale from research into design. But without good research, the process effectively spits you back into research and with a cache of specific open questions. Getting in the same curiosity-boat What gets us into trouble is not what we don’t know. It’s what we know for sure that just ain’t so.Mark Twain The first two steps of the ORCA process—Object Discovery and Relationship Discovery—shine a spotlight on the dark, dusty corners of your team’s misalignments and any inherent complexity that’s been swept under the rug. It begins to expose what this classic comic so beautifully illustrates: --- ## A Content Model Is Not a Design System URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/a-content-model-is-not-a-design-system/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Do you remember when having a great website was enough? Now, people are getting answers from Siri, Google search snippets, and mobile apps, not just our websites. Forward-thinking organizations have adopted an omnichannel content strategy, whose mission is to reach audiences across multiple digital channels and platforms. But how do you set up a content management system (CMS) to reach your audience now and in the future? I learned the hard way that creating a content model—a definition of content types, attributes, and relationships that let people and systems understand content—with my more familiar design-system thinking would capsize my customer’s omnichannel content strategy. You can avoid that outcome by creating content models that are semantic and that also connect related content.  I recently had the opportunity to lead the CMS implementation for a Fortune 500 company. The client was excited by the benefits of an omnichannel content strategy, including content reuse, multichannel marketing, and robot delivery—designing content to be intelligible to bots, Google knowledge panels, snippets, and voice user interfaces.  A content model is a critical foundation for an omnichannel content strategy, and for our content to be understood by multiple systems, the model needed semantic types—types named according to their meaning instead of their presentation. Our goal was to let authors create content and reuse it wherever it was relevant. But as the project proceeded, I realized that supporting content reuse at the scale that my customer needed required the whole team to recognize a new pattern. Despite our best intentions, we kept drawing from what we were more familiar with: design systems. Unlike web-focused content strategies, an omnichannel content strategy can’t rely on WYSIWYG tools for design and layout. Our tendency to approach the content model with our familiar design-system thinking constantly led us to veer away from one of the primary purposes of a content model: delivering content to audiences on multiple marketing channels. Two essential principles for an effective content model We needed to help our designers, developers, and stakeholders understand that we were doing something very different from their prior web projects, where it was natural for everyone to think about content as visual building blocks fitting into layouts. The previous approach was not only more familiar but also more intuitive—at least at first—because it made the designs feel more tangible. We discovered two principles that helped the team understand how a content model differs from the design systems that we were used to: Content models must define semantics instead of layout.And content models should connect content that belongs together. Semantic content models A semantic content model uses type and attribute names that reflect the meaning of the content, not how it will be displayed. For example, in a nonsemantic model, teams might create types like teasers, media blocks, and cards. Although these types might make it easy to lay out content, they don’t help delivery channels understand the content’s meaning, which in turn would have opened the door to the content being presented in each marketing channel. In contrast, a semantic content model uses type names like product, service, and testimonial so that each delivery channel can understand the content and use it as it sees fit.  When you’re creating a semantic content model, a great place to start is to look over the types and properties defined by Schema.org, a community-driven resource for type definitions that are intelligible to platforms like Google search. A semantic content model has several benefits: Even if your team doesn’t care about omnichannel content, a semantic content model decouples content from its presentation so that teams can evolve the website’s desig --- ## Design for Safety, An Excerpt URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/design-for-safety-an-excerpt/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Antiracist economist Kim Crayton says that “intention without strategy is chaos.” We’ve discussed how our biases, assumptions, and inattention toward marginalized and vulnerable groups lead to dangerous and unethical tech—but what, specifically, do we need to do to fix it? The intention to make our tech safer is not enough; we need a strategy. This chapter will equip you with that plan of action. It covers how to integrate safety principles into your design work in order to create tech that’s safe, how to convince your stakeholders that this work is necessary, and how to respond to the critique that what we actually need is more diversity. (Spoiler: we do, but diversity alone is not the antidote to fixing unethical, unsafe tech.) The process for inclusive safety When you are designing for safety, your goals are to: identify ways your product can be used for abuse,design ways to prevent the abuse, andprovide support for vulnerable users to reclaim power and control. The Process for Inclusive Safety is a tool to help you reach those goals (Fig 5.1). It’s a methodology I created in 2018 to capture the various techniques I was using when designing products with safety in mind. Whether you are creating an entirely new product or adding to an existing feature, the Process can help you make your product safe and inclusive. The Process includes five general areas of action: Conducting researchCreating archetypesBrainstorming problemsDesigning solutionsTesting for safety The Process is meant to be flexible—it won’t make sense for teams to implement every step in some situations. Use the parts that are relevant to your unique work and context; this is meant to be something you can insert into your existing design practice. And once you use it, if you have an idea for making it better or simply want to provide context of how it helped your team, please get in touch with me. It’s a living document that I hope will continue to be a useful and realistic tool that technologists can use in their day-to-day work. If you’re working on a product specifically for a vulnerable group or survivors of some form of trauma, such as an app for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or drug addiction, be sure to read Chapter 7, which covers that situation explicitly and should be handled a bit differently. The guidelines here are for prioritizing safety when designing a more general product that will have a wide user base (which, we already know from statistics, will include certain groups that should be protected from harm). Chapter 7 is focused on products that are specifically for vulnerable groups and people who have experienced trauma. Step 1: Conduct research Design research should include a broad analysis of how your tech might be weaponized for abuse as well as specific insights into the experiences of survivors and perpetrators of that type of abuse. At this stage, you and your team will investigate issues of interpersonal harm and abuse, and explore any other safety, security, or inclusivity issues that might be a concern for your product or service, like data security, racist algorithms, and harassment. Broad research Your project should begin with broad, general research into similar products and issues around safety and ethical concerns that have already been reported. For example, a team building a smart home device would do well to understand the multitude of ways that existing smart home devices have been used as tools of abuse. If your pr --- ## Breaking Out of the Box URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/breaking-out-of-the-box/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 CSS is about styling boxes. In fact, the whole web is made of boxes, from the browser viewport to elements on a page. But every once in a while a new feature comes along that makes us rethink our design approach. Round displays, for example, make it fun to play with circular clip areas. Mobile screen notches and virtual keyboards offer challenges to best organize content that stays clear of them. And dual screen or foldable devices make us rethink how to best use available space in a number of different device postures. These recent evolutions of the web platform made it both more challenging and more interesting to design products. They’re great opportunities for us to break out of our rectangular boxes. I’d like to talk about a new feature similar to the above: the Window Controls Overlay for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). Progressive Web Apps are blurring the lines between apps and websites. They combine the best of both worlds. On one hand, they’re stable, linkable, searchable, and responsive just like websites. On the other hand, they provide additional powerful capabilities, work offline, and read files just like native apps. As a design surface, PWAs are really interesting because they challenge us to think about what mixing web and device-native user interfaces can be. On desktop devices in particular, we have more than 40 years of history telling us what applications should look like, and it can be hard to break out of this mental model. At the end of the day though, PWAs on desktop are constrained to the window they appear in: a rectangle with a title bar at the top. Here’s what a typical desktop PWA app looks like: Sure, as the author of a PWA, you get to choose the color of the title bar (using the Web Application Manifest theme_color property), but that’s about it. What if we could think outside this box, and reclaim the real estate of the app’s entire window? Doing so would give us a chance to make our apps more beautiful and feel more integrated in the operating system. This is exactly what the Window Controls Overlay offers. This new PWA functionality makes it possible to take advantage of the full surface area of the app, including where the title bar normally appears. About the title bar and window controls Let’s start with an explanation of what the title bar and window controls are. The title bar is the area displayed at the top of an app window, which usually contains the app’s name. Window controls are the affordances, or buttons, that make it possible to minimize, maximize, or close the app’s window, and are also displayed at the top. Window Controls Overlay removes the physical constraint of the title bar and window controls areas. It frees up the full height of the app window, enabling the title bar and window control buttons to be overlaid on top of the application’s web content.  --- ## Mobile-First CSS: Is It Time for a Rethink? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/mobile-first-css-is-it-time-for-a-rethink/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 The mobile-first design methodology is great—it focuses on what really matters to the user, it’s well-practiced, and it’s been a common design pattern for years. So developing your CSS mobile-first should also be great, too…right?  Well, not necessarily. Classic mobile-first CSS development is based on the principle of overwriting style declarations: you begin your CSS with default style declarations, and overwrite and/or add new styles as you add breakpoints with min-width media queries for larger viewports (for a good overview see “What is Mobile First CSS and Why Does It Rock?”). But all those exceptions create complexity and inefficiency, which in turn can lead to an increased testing effort and a code base that’s harder to maintain. Admit it—how many of us willingly want that? On your own projects, mobile-first CSS may yet be the best tool for the job, but first you need to evaluate just how appropriate it is in light of the visual design and user interactions you’re working on. To help you get started, here’s how I go about tackling the factors you need to watch for, and I’ll discuss some alternate solutions if mobile-first doesn’t seem to suit your project. Advantages of mobile-first Some of the things to like with mobile-first CSS development—and why it’s been the de facto development methodology for so long—make a lot of sense: Development hierarchy. One thing you undoubtedly get from mobile-first is a nice development hierarchy—you just focus on the mobile view and get developing.  Tried and tested. It’s a tried and tested methodology that’s worked for years for a reason: it solves a problem really well. Prioritizes the mobile view. The mobile view is the simplest and arguably the most important, as it encompasses all the key user journeys, and often accounts for a higher proportion of user visits (depending on the project).  Prevents desktop-centric development. As development is done using desktop computers, it can be tempting to initially focus on the desktop view. But thinking about mobile from the start prevents us from getting stuck later on; no one wants to spend their time retrofitting a desktop-centric site to work on mobile devices! Disadvantages of mobile-first Setting style declarations and then overwriting them at higher breakpoints can lead to undesirable ramifications: More complexity. The farther up the breakpoint hierarchy you go, the more unnecessary code you inherit from lower breakpoints.  Higher CSS specificity. Styles that have been reverted to their browser default value in a class name declaration now have a higher specificity. This can be a headache on large projects when you want to keep the CSS selectors as simple as possible. Requires more regression testing. Changes to the CSS at a lower view (like adding a new style) requires all higher breakpoints to be regression tested. The browser can’t prioritize CSS downloads. At wider breakpoints, classic mobile-first min-width media queries don’t leverage the browser’s capability to download CSS files in priority order. The problem of property value overrides There is nothing inherently wrong with overwriting values; CSS was designed to do just that. Still, inheriting incorrect values is unhelpful and can be burdensome and inefficient. It can also lead to increased style specificity when you have to overwrite styles to reset them back to their defaults, something that may cause issues later on, especially if you are using a combination of bespoke CSS and utility classes. We won’t be able to use a utility class for a style that has been reset with a hig --- ## Designers, (Re)define Success First URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/designers-redefine-success-first/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 About two and a half years ago, I introduced the idea of daily ethical design. It was born out of my frustration with the many obstacles to achieving design that’s usable and equitable; protects people’s privacy, agency, and focus; benefits society; and restores nature. I argued that we need to overcome the inconveniences that prevent us from acting ethically and that we need to elevate design ethics to a more practical level by structurally integrating it into our daily work, processes, and tools. Unfortunately, we’re still very far from this ideal.  At the time, I didn’t know yet how to structurally integrate ethics. Yes, I had found some tools that had worked for me in previous projects, such as using checklists, assumption tracking, and “dark reality” sessions, but I didn’t manage to apply those in every project. I was still struggling for time and support, and at best I had only partially achieved a higher (moral) quality of design—which is far from my definition of structurally integrated. I decided to dig deeper for the root causes in business that prevent us from practicing daily ethical design. Now, after much research and experimentation, I believe that I’ve found the key that will let us structurally integrate ethics. And it’s surprisingly simple! But first we need to zoom out to get a better understanding of what we’re up against. Influence the system Sadly, we’re trapped in a capitalistic system that reinforces consumerism and inequality, and it’s obsessed with the fantasy of endless growth. Sea levels, temperatures, and our demand for energy continue to rise unchallenged, while the gap between rich and poor continues to widen. Shareholders expect ever-higher returns on their investments, and companies feel forced to set short-term objectives that reflect this. Over the last decades, those objectives have twisted our well-intended human-centered mindset into a powerful machine that promotes ever-higher levels of consumption. When we’re working for an organization that pursues “double-digit growth” or “aggressive sales targets” (which is 99 percent of us), that’s very hard to resist while remaining human friendly. Even with our best intentions, and even though we like to say that we create solutions for people, we’re a part of the problem. What can we do to change this? We can start by acting on the right level of the system. Donella H. Meadows, a system thinker, once listed ways to influence a system in order of effectiveness. When you apply these to design, you get: At the lowest level of effectiveness, you can affect numbers such as usability scores or the number of design critiques. But none of that will change the direction of a company.Similarly, affecting buffers (such as team budgets), stocks (such as the number of designers), flows (such as the number of new hires), and delays (such as the time that it takes to hear about the effect of design) won’t significantly affect a company.Focusing instead on feedback loops such as management control, employee recognition, or design-system investments can help a company become better at achieving its objectives. But that doesn’t change the objectives themselves, which means that the organization will still work against your ethical-design ideals.The next level, information flows, is what most ethical-design initiatives focus on now: the exchange of ethical methods, toolkits, articles, conferences, workshops, and so on. This is also where ethical design has remained mostly theoretical. We’ve been focusing on the wrong level of the system all this time.Take rules, for example—they beat knowledge every time. There can be widely accepted rules, such as how finance works, or a scrum team’s definition of done. But ethical design can also be smothered by unofficial rules meant to maintain profits, often revealed through comments such as “the client didn’t ask for it” or “don’t make it too big.”Changing the rules wit --- ## Humility: An Essential Value URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/humility-an-essential-value/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Humility, a designer’s essential value—that has a nice ring to it. What about humility, an office manager’s essential value? Or a dentist’s? Or a librarian’s? They all sound great. When humility is our guiding light, the path is always open for fulfillment, evolution, connection, and engagement. In this chapter, we’re going to talk about why. That said, this is a book for designers, and to that end, I’d like to start with a story—well, a journey, really. It’s a personal one, and I’m going to make myself a bit vulnerable along the way. I call it: The Tale of Justin’s Preposterous Pate When I was coming out of art school, a long-haired, goateed neophyte, print was a known quantity to me; design on the web, however, was rife with complexities to navigate and discover, a problem to be solved. Though I had been formally trained in graphic design, typography, and layout, what fascinated me was how these traditional skills might be applied to a fledgling digital landscape. This theme would ultimately shape the rest of my career. So rather than graduate and go into print like many of my friends, I devoured HTML and JavaScript books into the wee hours of the morning and taught myself how to code during my senior year. I wanted—nay, needed—to better understand the underlying implications of what my design decisions would mean once rendered in a browser. The late ’90s and early 2000s were the so-called “Wild West” of web design. Designers at the time were all figuring out how to apply design and visual communication to the digital landscape. What were the rules? How could we break them and still engage, entertain, and convey information? At a more macro level, how could my values, inclusive of humility, respect, and connection, align in tandem with that? I was hungry to find out. Though I’m talking about a different era, those are timeless considerations between non-career interactions and the world of design. What are your core passions, or values, that transcend medium? It’s essentially the same concept we discussed earlier on the direct parallels between what fulfills you, agnostic of the tangible or digital realms; the core themes are all the same. First within tables, animated GIFs, Flash, then with Web Standards, divs, and CSS, there was personality, raw unbridled creativity, and unique means of presentment that often defied any semblance of a visible grid. Splash screens and “browser requirement” pages aplenty. Usability and accessibility were typically victims of such a creation, but such paramount facets of any digital design were largely (and, in hindsight, unfairly) disregarded at the expense of experimentation. For example, this iteration of my personal portfolio site (“the pseudoroom”) from that era was experimental, if not a bit heavy- handed, in the visual communication of the concept of a living sketchbook. Very skeuomorphic. I collaborated with fellow designer and dear friend Marc Clancy (now a co-founder of the creative project organizing app Milanote) on this one, where we’d first sketch and then pass a Photoshop file back and forth to trick things out and play with varied user interactions. Then, I’d break it down and code it into a digital layout. Along with design folio pieces, the site also offered free downloads for Mac OS customizations: desktop wallpapers that were effectively design experimentation, custom-designed typefaces, and desktop icons. From around the same time, GUI Galaxy was a design, pixel art, and Mac-centric news portal some graphic designer friends and I conceived, designed, developed, and deployed. --- ## Personalization Pyramid: A Framework for Designing with User Data URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/personalization-pyramid-a-framework-for-designing-with-user-data/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 North Star: What larger strategic objective is driving the personalization program?  Goals: What are the specific, measurable outcomes of the program?  As a UX professional in today’s data-driven landscape, it’s increasingly likely that you’ve been asked to design a personalized digital experience, whether it’s a public website, user portal, or native application. Yet while there continues to be no shortage of marketing hype around personalization platforms, we still have very few standardized approaches for implementing personalized UX. That’s where we come in. After completing dozens of personalization projects over the past few years, we gave ourselves a goal: could you create a holistic personalization framework specifically for UX practitioners? The Personalization Pyramid is a designer-centric model for standing up human-centered personalization programs, spanning data, segmentation, content delivery, and overall goals. By using this approach, you will be able to understand the core components of a contemporary, UX-driven personalization program (or at the very least know enough to get started).  (image) Growing tools for personalization: According to a Dynamic Yield survey, 39% of respondents felt support is available on-demand when a business case is made for it (up 15% from 2020).Source: “The State of Personalization Maturity – Q4 2021” Dynamic Yield conducted its annual maturity survey across roles and sectors in the Americas (AMER), Europe and the Middle East (EMEA), and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions. This marks the fourth consecutive year publishing our research, which includes more than 450 responses from individuals in the C-Suite, Marketing, Merchandising, CX, Product, and IT. Getting Started For the sake of this article, we’ll assume you’re already familiar with the basics of digital personalization. A good overview can be found here: Website Personalization Planning. While UX projects in this area can take on many different forms, they often stem from similar starting points.       Common scenarios for starting a personalization project: Your organization or client purchased a content management system (CMS) or marketing automation platform (MAP) or related technology that supports personalization The CMO, CDO, or CIO has identified personalization as a goal Customer data is disjointed or ambiguous You are running some isolated targeting campaigns or A/B testing Stakeholders disagree on personalization approach Mandate of customer privacy rules (e.g. GDPR) requires revisiting existing user targeting practices (image) Workshopping personalization at a conference. Regardless of where you begin, a successful personalization program will require the same core building blocks. We’ve captured these as the “levels” on the pyramid. Whether you are a UX designer, researcher, or strategist, understanding the core components can help make your contribution successful.   (image) From the ground up: Soup-to-nuts personalization, without going nuts. From top to bottom, the levels include: North Star: What larger strategic objective is driving the personalization program?  Goals: What are the specific, measurable outcomes of the program?  --- ## To Ignite a Personalization Practice, Run this Prepersonalization Workshop URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/to-ignite-a-personalization-practice-run-this-prepersonalization-workshop/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Picture this. You’ve joined a squad at your company that’s designing new product features with an emphasis on automation or AI. Or your company has just implemented a personalization engine. Either way, you’re designing with data. Now what? When it comes to designing for personalization, there are many cautionary tales, no overnight successes, and few guides for the perplexed.  Between the fantasy of getting it right and the fear of it going wrong—like when we encounter “persofails” in the vein of a company repeatedly imploring everyday consumers to buy additional toilet seats—the personalization gap is real. It’s an especially confounding place to be a digital professional without a map, a compass, or a plan. For those of you venturing into personalization, there’s no Lonely Planet and few tour guides because effective personalization is so specific to each organization’s talent, technology, and market position.  But you can ensure that your team has packed its bags sensibly. There’s a DIY formula to increase your chances for success. At minimum, you’ll defuse your boss’s irrational exuberance. Before the party you’ll need to effectively prepare. We call it prepersonalization. Behind the music Consider Spotify’s DJ feature, which debuted this past year. We’re used to seeing the polished final result of a personalization feature. Before the year-end award, the making-of backstory, or the behind-the-scenes victory lap, a personalized feature had to be conceived, budgeted, and prioritized. Before any personalization feature goes live in your product or service, it lives amid a backlog of worthy ideas for expressing customer experiences more dynamically. So how do you know where to place your personalization bets? How do you design consistent interactions that won’t trip up users or—worse—breed mistrust? We’ve found that for many budgeted programs to justify their ongoing investments, they first needed one or more workshops to convene key stakeholders and internal customers of the technology. Make yours count. ​From Big Tech to fledgling startups, we’ve seen the same evolution up close with our clients. In our experiences with working on small and large personalization efforts, a program’s ultimate track record—and its ability to weather tough questions, work steadily toward shared answers, and organize its design and technology efforts—turns on how effectively these prepersonalization activities play out. Time and again, we’ve seen effective workshops separate future success stories from unsuccessful efforts, saving countless time, resources, and collective well-being in the process. A personalization practice involves a multiyear effort of testing and feature development. It’s not a switch-flip moment in your tech stack. It’s best managed as a backlog that often evolves through three steps:  customer experience optimization (CXO, also known as A/B testing or experimentation) --- ## Opportunities for AI in Accessibility URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/opportunities-for-ai-in-accessibility/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 In reading Joe Dolson’s recent piece on the intersection of AI and accessibility, I absolutely appreciated the skepticism that he has for AI in general as well as for the ways that many have been using it. In fact, I’m very skeptical of AI myself, despite my role at Microsoft as an accessibility innovation strategist who helps run the AI for Accessibility grant program. As with any tool, AI can be used in very constructive, inclusive, and accessible ways; and it can also be used in destructive, exclusive, and harmful ones. And there are a ton of uses somewhere in the mediocre middle as well. I’d like you to consider this a “yes… and” piece to complement Joe’s post. I’m not trying to refute any of what he’s saying but rather provide some visibility to projects and opportunities where AI can make meaningful differences for people with disabilities. To be clear, I’m not saying that there aren’t real risks or pressing issues with AI that need to be addressed—there are, and we’ve needed to address them, like, yesterday—but I want to take a little time to talk about what’s possible in hopes that we’ll get there one day. Alternative text Joe’s piece spends a lot of time talking about computer-vision models generating alternative text. He highlights a ton of valid issues with the current state of things. And while computer-vision models continue to improve in the quality and richness of detail in their descriptions, their results aren’t great. As he rightly points out, the current state of image analysis is pretty poor—especially for certain image types—in large part because current AI systems examine images in isolation rather than within the contexts that they’re in (which is a consequence of having separate “foundation” models for text analysis and image analysis). Today’s models aren’t trained to distinguish between images that are contextually relevant (that should probably have descriptions) and those that are purely decorative (which might not need a description) either. Still, I still think there’s potential in this space. As Joe mentions, human-in-the-loop authoring of alt text should absolutely be a thing. And if AI can pop in to offer a starting point for alt text—even if that starting point might be a prompt saying What is this BS? That’s not right at all… Let me try to offer a starting point—I think that’s a win. Taking things a step further, if we can specifically train a model to analyze image usage in context, it could help us more quickly identify which images are likely to be decorative and which ones likely require a description. That will help reinforce which contexts call for image descriptions and it’ll improve authors’ efficiency toward making their pages more accessible. While complex images—like graphs and charts—are challenging to describe in any sort of succinct way (even for humans), the image example shared in the GPT4 announcement points to an interesting opportunity as well. Let’s suppose that you came across a chart whose description was simply the title of the chart and the kind of visualization it was, such as: Pie chart comparing smartphone usage to feature phone usage among US households making under $30,000 a year. (That would be a pretty awful alt text for a chart since that would tend to leave many questions about the data unanswered, but then again, let’s suppose that that was the description that was in place.) If your browser knew that that image was a pie chart (because an onboard model concluded this), imagine a world where users could ask questions like these about the graphic: Do more people use smartphones or feature phones? How many more? Is there a group of people that don’t fall into either of these buckets? How many is that? Setting aside the realities of large language model (LLM) hallucinations—where a model just makes up plausible-sounding “facts”—for a moment, the opportunity to learn --- ## Design for Amiability: Lessons from Vienna URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/design-for-amiability-lessons-from-vienna/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Today’s web is not always an amiable place. Sites greet you with a popover that demands assent to their cookie policy, and leave you with Taboola ads promising “One Weird Trick!” to cure your ailments. Social media sites are tuned for engagement, and few things are more engaging than a fight. Today it seems that people want to quarrel; I have seen flame wars among birders.   These tensions are often at odds with a site’s goals. If we are providing support and advice to customers, we don’t want those customers to wrangle with each other. If we offer news about the latest research, we want readers to feel at ease; if we promote upcoming marches, we want our core supporters to feel comfortable and we want curious newcomers to feel welcome.  In a study for a conference on the History of the Web, I looked to the origins of Computer Science in Vienna (1928-1934)  for a case study of the importance of amiability in a research community and the disastrous consequences of its loss. That story has interesting implications for web environments that promote amiable interaction among disparate, difficult (and sometimes disagreeable) people. The Vienna Circle Though people had been thinking about calculating engines and thinking machines from antiquity, Computing really got going in Depression-era Vienna.  The people who worked out the theory had no interest in building machines; they wanted to puzzle out the limits of reason in the absence of divine authority. If we could not rely on God or Aristotle to tell us how to think, could we instead build arguments that were self-contained and demonstrably correct? Can we be sure that mathematics is consistent? Are there things that are true but that cannot be expressed in language?  The core ideas were worked out in the weekly meetings (Thursdays at 6) of a group remembered as the Vienna Circle. They got together in the office of Professor Moritz Schlick at the University of Vienna to discuss problems in philosophy, math, and language. The intersection of physics and philosophy had long been a specialty of this Vienna department, and this work had placed them among the world leaders.  Schlick’s colleague Hans Hahn was a central participant, and by 1928 Hahn brought along his graduate students Karl Menger and Kurt Gödel. Other frequent participants included philosopher Rudolf Carnap, psychologist Karl Popper, economist Ludwig von Mises (brought by his brother Frederick, a physicist),  graphic designer Otto Neurath (inventor of infographics), and architect Josef Frank (brought by his physicist brother, Phillip).  Out-of-town visitors often joined, including the young Johnny von Neumann, Alfred Tarski, and the irascible Ludwig Wittgenstein.  When Schlick’s office grew too dim, participants adjourned to a nearby café for additional discussion with an even larger circle of participants.  This convivial circle was far from unique.  An intersecting circle–Neurath, von Mises, Oskar Morgenstern–established the Austrian School of free-market economics. There were theatrical circles (Peter Lorre, Hedy Lamarr, Max Reinhardt), and literary circles. The café was where things happened. The interdisciplinarity of the group posed real challenges of temperament and understanding. Personalities were often a challenge. Gödel was convinced people were trying to poison him. Architect Josef Frank depended on contracts for public housing, which Mises opposed as wasteful. Wittgenstein’s temper had lost him his job as a secondary school teacher, and for some of these years he maintained a detailed list of whom he was willing to meet. Neurath was eager to detect muddled thinking and would interrupt a speaker with a shouted “Metaphysics!” The continuing amity of these meetings was facilitated by the personality of their leader, Moritz Schlick, who would be remembered as notably adept in keeping disagreements from becoming quarrels. In the Café The Viennese café of this era was long remembered as a particularly good place to argue with your friends, to read, and to write. Built to serve an imperial capital, the cafés found themselves with too much space and too few customers now that the Empire wa --- ## An Holistic Framework for Shared Design Leadership URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/an-holistic-framework-for-shared-design-leadership/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 Providing craft-specific feedback on team member development Identifying design skill gaps and growth opportunities Offering design mentorship and guidance Signaling when team members are ready for Picture this: You’re in a meeting room at your tech company, and two people are having what looks like the same conversation about the same design problem. One is talking about whether the team has the right skills to tackle it. The other is diving deep into whether the solution actually solves the user’s problem. Same room, same problem, completely different lenses. This is the beautiful, sometimes messy reality of having both a Design Manager and a Lead Designer on the same team. And if you’re wondering how to make this work without creating confusion, overlap, or the dreaded “too many cooks” scenario, you’re asking the right question. The traditional answer has been to draw clean lines on an org chart. The Design Manager handles people, the Lead Designer handles craft. Problem solved, right? Except clean org charts are fantasy. In reality, both roles care deeply about team health, design quality, and shipping great work.  The magic happens when you embrace the overlap instead of fighting it—when you start thinking of your design org as a design organism. The Anatomy of a Healthy Design Team Here’s what I’ve learned from years of being on both sides of this equation: think of your design team as a living organism. The Design Manager tends to the mind (the psychological safety, the career growth, the team dynamics). The Lead Designer tends to the body (the craft skills, the design standards, the hands-on work that ships to users). But just like mind and body aren’t completely separate systems, so, too, do these roles overlap in important ways. You can’t have a healthy person without both working in harmony. The trick is knowing where those overlaps are and how to navigate them gracefully. When we look at how healthy teams actually function, three critical systems emerge. Each requires both roles to work together, but with one taking primary responsibility for keeping that system strong. The Nervous System: People & Psychology Primary caretaker: Design ManagerSupporting role: Lead Designer The nervous system is all about signals, feedback, and psychological safety. When this system is healthy, information flows freely, people feel safe to take risks, and the team can adapt quickly to new challenges. The Design Manager is the primary caretaker here. They’re monitoring the team’s psychological pulse, ensuring feedback loops are healthy, and creating the conditions for people to grow. They’re hosting career conversations, managing workload, and making sure no one burns out. But the Lead Designer plays a crucial supporting role. They’re providing sensory input about craft development needs, spotting when someone’s design skills are stagnating, and helping identify growth opportunities that the Design Manager might miss. Design Manager tends to: Career conversations and growth planning Team psychological safety and dynamics Workload management and resource allocation Performance reviews and feedback systems Creating learning opportunities Lead Designer supports by: Providing craft-specific feedback on team member development Identifying design skill gaps and growth opportunities Offering design mentorship and guidance Signaling when team members are ready for --- ## From Beta to Bedrock: Build Products that Stick. URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/from-beta-to-bedrock-build-products-that-stick/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-20 As a product builder over too many years to mention, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve seen promising ideas go from zero to hero in a few weeks, only to fizzle out within months. Financial products, which is the field I work in, are no exception. With people’s real hard-earned money on the line, user expectations running high, and a crowded market, it’s tempting to throw as many features at the wall as possible and hope something sticks. But this approach is a recipe for disaster. Here’s why: The pitfalls of feature-first development When you start building a financial product from the ground up, or are migrating existing customer journeys from paper or telephony channels onto online banking or mobile apps, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of creating new features. You might think, “If I can just add one more thing that solves this particular user problem, they’ll love me!” But what happens when you inevitably hit a roadblock because the narcs (your security team!) don’t like it? When a hard-fought feature isn’t as popular as you thought, or it breaks due to unforeseen complexity? This is where the concept of Minimum Viable Product (MVP) comes in. Jason Fried’s book Getting Real and his podcast Rework often touch on this idea, even if he doesn’t always call it that. An MVP is a product that provides just enough value to your users to keep them engaged, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming or difficult to maintain. It sounds like an easy concept but it requires a razor sharp eye, a ruthless edge and having the courage to stick by your opinion because it is easy to be seduced by “the Columbo Effect”… when there’s always “just one more thing…” that someone wants to add. The problem with most finance apps, however, is that they often become a reflection of the internal politics of the business rather than an experience solely designed around the customer. This means that the focus is on delivering as many features and functionalities as possible to satisfy the needs and desires of competing internal departments, rather than providing a clear value proposition that is focused on what the people out there in the real world want. As a result, these products can very easily bloat to become a mixed bag of confusing, unrelated and ultimately unlovable customer experiences—a feature salad, you might say. The importance of bedrock So what’s a better approach? How can we build products that are stable, user-friendly, and—most importantly—stick? That’s where the concept of “bedrock” comes in. Bedrock is the core element of your product that truly matters to users. It’s the fundamental building block that provides value and stays relevant over time. In the world of retail banking, which is where I work, the bedrock has got to be in and around the regular servicing journeys. People open their current account once in a blue moon but they look at it every day. They sign up for a credit card every year or two, but they check their balance and pay their bill at least once a month. Identifying the core tasks that people want to do and then relentlessly striving to make them easy to do, dependable, and trustworthy is where the gravy’s at. But how do you get to bedrock? By focusing on the “MVP” approach, prioritizing simplicity, and iterating towards a clear value proposition. This means cutting out unnecessary features and focusing on delivering real value to your users. It also means having some guts, because your colleagues might not always instantly share your vision to start with. And controversially, sometimes it can even mean making it clear to customers that you’re not going to come to their house and make their dinner. The occasional “opinionated user interface design” (i.e. clunky workaround for edge cases) might sometimes be what you need to use to test a concept or buy you space to work on something more important. Practical strate --- ## Marketing Chaos Ends With a Real System URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/marketing-chaos-ends-with-a-real-system/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-12 Marketing Chaos Ends With a Real System written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the Full Episode Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, host John Jantsch and Sara Nay, CEO of Duct Tape Marketing and author of Unchained: Breaking Free from Broken Marketing Models, discuss why traditional marketing feels chaotic and how installing a structured marketing operating system can drive clarity, consistency, accountability, […] Marketing Chaos Ends With a Real System written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the Full Episode (image) Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, host John Jantsch and Sara Nay, CEO of Duct Tape Marketing and author of Unchained: Breaking Free from Broken Marketing Models, discuss why traditional marketing feels chaotic and how installing a structured marketing operating system can drive clarity, consistency, accountability, and long‑term growth. Nay breaks down the seven core components of the system—from strategy and campaign design to AI integration, measurement, meeting rhythms, and optimization. They also explore the differences between this system-based approach and typical agency engagements, practical ways teams can implement these ideas, and how this structure increases business equity. Guest Bio Sara Nay is the Chief Executive Officer of Duct Tape Marketing, a leading authority in systematic marketing approaches for small and mid-sized businesses. She is also the author of Unchained: Breaking Free from Broken Marketing Models, a book focused on rethinking how businesses build and scale marketing with strategy, systems, and measurement. With deep experience in marketing operations and strategic growth, Sara helps organizations transform chaotic marketing into predictable, measurable engines of growth. Key Takeaways Marketing Feels Like a Moving Target Because Tactics Proliferate Traditional marketing often jumps from tool to tool without strategy, creating confusion rather than results. A Marketing Operating System Provides Structure Like financial or business operating systems, a marketing OS installs strategy, processes, scorecards, and rhythms that make marketing predictable and accountable. Seven Core Components of the Marketing Operating System Strategy First Core Campaign Builder Workstream Engine AI Marketing Hub Scorecard & Signals Dashboard Momentum Meeting Quarterly Optimization Strategy Before Tactics Is Non-Negotiable Creating a differentiated strategy rooted in ideal clients and core messaging informs everything that follows. AI Enhances People, It Doesn’t Replace Strategy AI tools are most effective when informed by strategy and integrated into documented processes. Measurement and Culture Shift Drive Accountability Dashboards and structured meetings cultivate team ownership and goal alignment. System Equals Equity Marketing systems not only improve performance but also increase the value of the business. Catch the Full Episode on Youtube: Time‑Stamped Great Moments 00:01 – Introduction to Today’s Topic 03:05 – Traditional Agencies vs. a Marketing Operating System 05:23 – Strategy First Core Explained 08:25 – Campaign Builder: From Strategy to Action 09:15 – Workstream Engine: Process, Roles, and SOPs 12:13 – AI Marketing Hub: Step Four 15:02 – Scorecard & Signals Dashboard 17:10 – Momentum Meetings: Rhythm and Accountability 20:04 – Quarterly Optimization: Bigger Picture Learning 22:32 – Engagement Models With Duct Tape Marketing 25:26 – How to Book a Call: Clear Next Step --- ## Why Goals Fail and How to Change the Odds URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-goals-fail-and-how-to-change-the-odds/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-12 Why Goals Fail and How to Change the Odds written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the full episode:   Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, host John Jantsch sits down with award-winning strategy consultant, speaker, and author Kyle Austin Young to explore his decision-making and goal-achievement framework called probability hacking. Kyle explains why traditional goal pursuits rooted in hustle, mindset, and positive thinking fall […] Why Goals Fail and How to Change the Odds written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the full episode:   (image) Episode Overview In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, host John Jantsch sits down with award-winning strategy consultant, speaker, and author Kyle Austin Young to explore his decision-making and goal-achievement framework called probability hacking. Kyle explains why traditional goal pursuits rooted in hustle, mindset, and positive thinking fall short and how identifying and solving for potential risks can dramatically shift your odds of success. Guest Bio Kyle Austin Young is a strategy consultant, speaker, and writer helping high achievers accomplish meaningful goals through his probability hacking framework. He’s been featured in top publications and is the author of Success Is a Numbers Game: Achieve Bigger Goals by Changing the Odds. Key Takeaways Probability over Mindset: Success isn’t just about positivity—it’s about improving your odds. Probability Hacking Framework: Define goals, identify prerequisites, anticipate what could go wrong, and solve creatively. Success Diagrams: Visual tools to map out and de-risk goal pathways. Multiplying Probabilities: Understand true odds by combining variables—not averaging them. Resilience & Repetition: Trying multiple times can dramatically increase your likelihood of success. Mindset Shift: Think negative—not to be pessimistic, but to preemptively solve issues. Notable Moments (Time‑Stamped) 00:01 – Introduction of Kyle Austin Young and today’s topic 00:59 – Odds vs. mindset in goal-setting 04:15 – Kyle’s story of landing a high-stakes job at age 21 07:04 – Breakdown of the success diagram framework 09:19 – Why averaging leads to false confidence 11:57 – Miracle on Ice and the math of multiple attempts 14:32 – Getting started with probability thinking 15:41 – The four paths to success explained 17:47 – Edison and the role of experimentation in resilience 19:54 – Where to find Kyle and his book Quotes “What’s going to have to go right? And what could go wrong? That’s where your opportunity to change the odds lives.” — Kyle Austin Young “Success is really about identifying what could derail you and finding creative ways to make those outcomes less likely.” — Kyle Austin Young Connect with Kyle Austin Young Book: Success Is a Numbers Game — available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Penguin Random House Website: kyleaustinyoung.com LinkedIn: Kyle Austin Young   Duc --- ## A “Moore-ish” law for marketing URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/a-moore-ish-law-for-marketing/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-12 A “Moore-ish” law for marketing written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Marketing is quietly crossing a threshold. Not because we can “make more content” with AI. Because every time the cost of thinking drops, the amount of experimentation and personalization you can afford explodes. And that changes the shape of marketing from campaigns you launch to systems you operate. I’ve spent decades teaching small businesses to […] A “Moore-ish” law for marketing written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Marketing is quietly crossing a threshold. Not because we can “make more content” with AI. Because every time the cost of thinking drops, the amount of experimentation and personalization you can afford explodes. And that changes the shape of marketing from campaigns you launch to systems you operate. I’ve spent decades teaching small businesses to stop chasing shiny tactics and install a marketing system that creates clarity and consistent growth. That “system-first” mindset is exactly what this moment demands, except now the system can learn faster than your team can type. The “Moore-ish” Law of Marketing: When the Cost of Thinking Drops, Experimentation Explodes Table of contents A “Moore-ish” law for marketing Three forces changing marketing right now What this means in the near term Content shifts from assets to streams Personalization shifts from segments to situations Agents start eating coordination work The role shift: from makers to operators of systems What to do right now: a near-term playbook How this fits the Duct Tape Marketing system FAQs A “Moore-ish” law for marketing Here’s the framing: (image) When the cost per marketing experiment keeps falling, the number of experiments you can afford rises dramatically. If it gets 2x cheaper, or 2x faster, to generate, quality-check, and deploy a new variation, you do more of them. Over time, that pushes marketing from campaign-centric (big launches, big bets) to system-centric (continuous learning, continuous improvement). The unlock is not “AI content.” It’s collapsed time-to-learning. When time-to-learning collapses, the limiting factor shifts: Not “can we produce it?” But “can we measure what’s true and decide well?” That is the big idea in one sentence: Execution moves from human throughput to machine throughput, while humans move up the stack to judgment, strategy, constraints, narrative, offers, positioning, and ethics. Three forces changing marketing right now 1) Cost per experiment is falling The ability to create variations is no longer scarce. What is scarce is the ability to run clean tests, protect the brand, and decide. 2) Time-to-learning is collapsing Shorter loops mean you can improve messaging, creative, and offers continuously instead of waiting for a quarterly campaign post-mortem. 3) Coordination work is becoming automatable Most marketing teams spend more time coordinating work than creating leverage. As tools integrate into work apps, AI can draft, route, repurpose, tag, schedule, and execute multi-step workflows under human supervision. What this means in the near term 1) Content shifts from assets to strea --- ## Selling Outcomes Instead of Services URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/selling-outcomes-instead-of-services/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-12 Selling Outcomes Instead of Services written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the full episode: Episode Overview Joe Pine, co-founder of Strategic Horizons and author of The Experience Economy, returns to discuss his new book, The Transformation Economy: Guiding Customers to Achieve Their Aspirations. The conversation breaks down the shift from staging memorable experiences to guiding customers through meaningful change, where customers invest time for compounding […] Selling Outcomes Instead of Services written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing Catch the full episode: (image) Episode Overview Joe Pine, co-founder of Strategic Horizons and author of The Experience Economy, returns to discuss his new book, The Transformation Economy: Guiding Customers to Achieve Their Aspirations. The conversation breaks down the shift from staging memorable experiences to guiding customers through meaningful change, where customers invest time for compounding benefits, and businesses are accountable for outcomes. Guest Bio Joe Pine is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and management advisor. He co-founded Strategic Horizons LLP and is best known for coining the term “The Experience Economy.” Joe advises organizations on creating new forms of economic value through experiences and transformations. His latest book, The Transformation Economy, focuses on guiding customers to achieve lasting aspirations rather than short-term satisfaction. Key Topics Covered What the Transformation Economy is and why it follows the Experience Economy The difference between time well spent and time well invested Why transformation is not marketing language, but an economic offering How B2B companies can design and deliver transformations Productizing transformation without commoditizing it The role of AI in diagnosis, coaching, and sustained change Pricing for outcomes instead of activities or time Why guarantees act as catalytic mechanisms for transformation Marketing as an “invitational transformation” and identity change First steps small businesses can take toward transformation-based offerings Key Takeaways Transformation is the next level of economic value. Businesses evolve from commodities to goods, services, experiences, and now transformations—where customers pay to become someone new. Experiences are the raw material for transformation. Experiences create memories; transformations create lasting change and compound future benefits. You cannot change customers—only guide them. Customers transform themselves. Businesses act as guides, coaches, counselors, or navigators. B2B transformation is often easier than B2C. Businesses buy offerings as a means to an end; uncovering the true aspiration unlocks transformation opportunities. Outcome-based pricing changes everything. Transformations require charging for outcomes, often supported by guarantees that align incentives. AI enables scalable personalization. AI can support diagnosis, coaching, and follow-through—helping productize transformation at scale. Marketing can invite identity change. Great marketing experiences help customers move from “I use this” to “I am this.” Follow-through determines success. Sustaining change is often more valuable than achieving the initial result. Great Moments & Timestamps 00:03 – “The real premium left is helping customers become someone new.” 01:04 – Joe Pine defines the Transformation Economy in 60 seconds 02:03 – The difference between time well spent and time well invested 04:02 – Why companies must become guides, not sellers --- ## Start smaller: Any local business can be your incubator URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/start-smaller-any-local-business-can-be-your-incubator/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 Are you starting a business that could use retail space, but you can’t justify renting a storefront? Find a tiny space inside another business that can be your incubator. Who could display This can work for all kinds of physical-display businesses: Artists Crafts Authors Resellers Photographers Shelf stable foods and beverages Small manufacturers Agri-products like […] (image) Are you starting a business that could use retail space, but you can’t justify renting a storefront? Find a tiny space inside another business that can be your incubator. Who could display This can work for all kinds of physical-display businesses: Artists Crafts Authors Resellers Photographers Shelf stable foods and beverages Small manufacturers Agri-products like beeswax candles or goat milk skin care Who could host And any kind of bricks and mortar business could host: Retail stores Lodging Coffee shops and restaurants Services like insurance or legal offices Cultural spaces like museums The host business doesn’t have to be related to the pop-up. In fact, when they’re not related, both sides benefit from exposure to both sets of customers. Many small town businesses struggle to keep enough merchandise on display to make the store feel full and vibrant. Adding a pop-up business can help fill out the interior. Together, you’re creating an experience for your customers that they can’t get anywhere else. See also: How do you get merchants to host pop-ups inside their business? Start with one wall, one shelf, one square foot of retail space. Here are some pictures to inspire your creativity. Photography in a clothing store (image) It’s tough for retail stores to fill the space  near the ceiling, and any empty space makes a small town business look sparse. Solution: local photography display. Photo by Deb Brown   One square-foot retail Beauty salons are natural business incubators. Salons always have other little businesses growing inside them because they have great foot traffic. This is an opportunity to do more with the same amount of space. Probably the smallest pop-up I’ve seen is this stack of headbands, crafted by a local high school senior raising money for her mission trip. It fit into one square foot of the retail counter. (image) You don’t need much to start small. Even one square foot of space may be enough. Photo by Becky McCray.   The One Wall Bookstore I love the one-wall bookstore idea! How many times have people said your town is too small for a bookstore? You’re not too small for anything if it only needs one wall! (image) One wall of shelves made a flexible pop-up space inside The Village shops in Washington, Iowa. Photo by Cathy Lloyd   A building of tiny shops Besides the one-wall kids’ bookshop, this building is divided into many different small retail shops. (image) Another one-wall bookstore, this time for kids books. Photo courtesy of Walker Mercantile, Woodward, Oklahoma   Local art and photography Every local business (retail, service, office…) needs art on their walls. Every local artist needs to get in front of new customers. Put those together, and you have an amazingly easy local art project. (image) Coffee shop Gathering Grounds displays local art on the walls in Avon, Minnesota. Photo by Deb Brown   Fill just one shelf A local hobby farm doesn’t need a full retail store for their goat milk products. One section of an endcap display in the local pharmacy may be just right. (image) This pharmacy obviou --- ## Caring is a small town business advantage URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/caring-is-a-small-town-business-advantage/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 By Stephanie Ward, Firefly Coaching Caring isn’t something you can do if you’re only using it as a tactic. You can’t fake caring, either you do or you don’t. The good news is that we all have the capacity to care. It’s a state of being that you can tap into, just like gratitude. We […] (image) By Stephanie Ward, Firefly Coaching Caring isn’t something you can do if you’re only using it as a tactic. You can’t fake caring, either you do or you don’t. The good news is that we all have the capacity to care. It’s a state of being that you can tap into, just like gratitude. We would probably be more caring, more often, if we just thought about it. Like anything, it has to be a priority, something you are consciously thinking about and want to do. So how can you show potential clients, your current clients, and the people in your network that you care? Here are some ideas to get you started. 1) Listen We all want to be heard. My favorite habit from Stephen Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, is Habit #5: First seek to understand, then to be understood. Listen deeply to people when you communicate with them. Make sure they feel that you hear them and clearly get what they are saying. 2) Ask How It’s Going Ask your clients about their experience with your products and services. Ask them if they are satisfied, if they are receiving what they expected. If things aren’t up to snuff, do everything you can within your power to make the situation right. And then do even more to exceed their expectations. 3) Offer Help If you see that someone is struggling with something, offer to help. Can you share a resource that will help? Make an introduction? Review something? Being helpful is a wonderful way to show you care. 4) Check In Check in with people for no reason other than to say hello and see how they are doing. You can drop a note in the post, call, or send an email. 5) Give Support & Encouragement If you know someone has an upcoming event, book launch, speaking gig, or an equivalently big deal on the horizon – send them a message of encouragement. Caring about the success of others is fun and easy to do. 6) Share Their Work As the Salvation Army says, Sharing is Caring. If you care about someone, and the work she is doing, share it. Social media makes it a piece of cake to do. So take a few minutes to share the creations of others. 7) Keep Your Promises In business, your word is everything. Caring about someone means keeping your promises. Keeping your promises builds trust and lets people know they can count on you. 8) Say Thank You If someone does something kind for you, show you care by saying thank you. Showing your appreciation goes a long way and yet, it’s another thing we sometimes forget to do. The funny thing about caring about people is that in your effort to give, you will also receive. It feels good. How do you show people you care? © Stephanie Ward, reprinted by permission Photo PD by Alex Starnes, via nappy Stephanie Ward is the Marketing Coach for Entrepreneurs who want to create meaningful and prosperous businesses. Grab your FREE copy of the special report ’7 Steps to Attract More Clients in Less Time’ plus business building tips, at: . Which one of these ideas will you try? How do you show your clients you care? Share your experiences, thoughts, and questions in the comments section below. --- ## Use your loyalty card as your business card URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/use-your-loyalty-card-as-your-business-card/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 At the LaunchRuralOK Small Business Resource event in Alva, I overheard the owner of Millie Coffee from Fairview, Oklahoma, talking to a service provider she wanted to work with. She  apologized for not having business cards with her, then handed over her shop’s loyalty card instead. I looked over my shoulder and said out loud, […] (image) Photo by Becky McCray At the LaunchRuralOK Small Business Resource event in Alva, I overheard the owner of Millie Coffee from Fairview, Oklahoma, talking to a service provider she wanted to work with. She  apologized for not having business cards with her, then handed over her shop’s loyalty card instead. I looked over my shoulder and said out loud, “That’s actually genius.” Here’s why her loyalty card beats a regular business card. It gives people a reason to visit A business card sits in someone’s pocket or gets filed away. Maybe they’ll call you someday. Maybe. A loyalty card? That’s an invitation with a built-in incentive. “Come see me at my shop. Get a punch. Come back again.” Bonus: Cross off one punch right there because they met you personally. You’re not just handing them a card. You’re starting a relationship and giving them credit for it. You’re already paying to print them Loyalty cards cost about the same as business cards. Why print two separate things when one card can do both jobs? Put your contact info on your loyalty card: phone number, address, email, hours, whatever you’d put on a business card. Now you’ve got one card that does double duty. Do you already have cards?  If you run a coffee shop, car wash, retail store, massage therapy business, hair salon, spa, ice cream shop, or any business where you want people to come back, you probably already have loyalty cards printed. Those are your business cards now. Start using them Grab a stack of your loyalty cards and take them to your next chamber meeting, networking event, or business gathering. Anywhere you’d normally hand out a business card, hand out your loyalty card instead. And when you order your next batch of loyalty cards, make sure your contact info is on there. You’ll have the most genius business cards in town. --- ## The End of Year Checklist for Small Businesses URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-end-of-year-checklist-for-small-businesses/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 I’ve been in business a long time now, from retail to service to ag, and I’ve learned some things about wrapping up one year and getting ready for the next. Some of it I learned the hard way! Whether you run your business on paper, desktop software, mobile or cloud services, there are common tasks […] I’ve been in business a long time now, from retail to service to ag, and I’ve learned some things about wrapping up one year and getting ready for the next. Some of it I learned the hard way! Whether you run your business on paper, desktop software, mobile or cloud services, there are common tasks that need doing at year-end. Here’s your checklist. (image) Time for those must-do end-of-year tasks! Photo by mavoimages via Depositphotos. Must do Jan 1 These are the ones you can’t easily do later, so you don’t want to put them off. The good news: these are the easy ones. Count your inventory. If you sell or make products, take an inventory of all products and raw materials on hand at the turn of the year. You need the value of what it cost you. If you use a point-of-sale (POS) system, write down the end of year inventory total on January 1. Why you have to write it down: Most POS systems only keep a running (current) inventory total. If you forget to write it down now, you’ll have to figure backwards from all purchases and sales since Jan 1. Trust me, this is not a fun job. When I managed a liquor store, we took advantage of being closed on New Year’s Day to do a full count of our inventory and correct our POS records. It didn’t take long with one person counting, and one running the laptop to make corrections. Record end of year mileage. If you use your vehicle for business, write down your mileage at the end of the year. This provides an important baseline for your mileage records all year long. I always put this on my online calendar so I can find it easily. Get these done during January These are the tasks that need to be done soon, but don’t have to happen on January 1. But don’t let it slide, or you’ll pay for it with rushed days during tax filing season. How to get this done: Right now, commit time on each Friday during January to work through the checklist until you’re all finished. 1. Financial Data Backup accounting data in two formats. Yes, this applies whether you use paper records, software, app or a cloud service. Every data service is subject to being interrupted at the worst possible time or even closing down with no warning. Hot tip: Do an export of the data in your accounting system’s backup format and then also in CSV. So if you use Quickbooks, let it back up in the special .qbw format, then do another backup in CSV. Run accounting reports in PDF. Run year-end financial reports as PDFs. If you need this data in a few years from now, it will be easy to look at a PDF report that shows the answer in an easy-to-read fo --- ## Get more customers without advertising: Show up where they can find you URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/get-more-customers-without-advertising-show-up-where-they-can-find-you/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 How the Roofer Nailed Marketing Guest Post by Chris Brogan Let me tell you about an experience I had in a little diner in Lewiston, Maine. I sat at the counter of a busy Maine diner slinging breakfast to a crowd of mostly locals, it seemed. One guy a few seats away from me did […] How the Roofer Nailed Marketing (image) Photo by Becky McCray. Guest Post by Chris Brogan Let me tell you about an experience I had in a little diner in Lewiston, Maine. I sat at the counter of a busy Maine diner slinging breakfast to a crowd of mostly locals, it seemed. One guy a few seats away from me did roof work. I know this because over the course of my meal, maybe eight different people interrupted him to ask him to check out a job they had in mind for him. I couldn’t ignore any of this, so I asked, “I don’t want to interrupt, but you sure are getting a lot of business just sitting here at the counter. You don’t advertise or anything, do you?” “Nope,” he said, pushing some eggs into his mouth and chewing for a little. “I come here for breakfast and lunch every single day they’re open. And every day, someone asks me if I can look at a job. Easy as that.” --- ## Local Products Make the Best Swag URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/local-products-make-the-best-swag/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 Jim Katzman wrote a great article on Medium about creating swag that customers actually want. One of his tips was “Leverage Local Pride.” That got me thinking: Local products would make the best swag. Local products are easier Instead of designing a batch of custom pens or ordering another lot of logo coffee mugs, walk […] Jim Katzman wrote a great article on Medium about creating swag that customers actually want. One of his tips was “Leverage Local Pride.” That got me thinking: Local products would make the best swag. Local products are easier Instead of designing a batch of custom pens or ordering another lot of logo coffee mugs, walk into a local shop and buy what they’ve got. Local honey. Locally made soap. Beef jerky from a nearby producer. A small art or craft piece. You skip the minimum order quantities and the wait time. You support another local business. And you hand people something they’ll actually use and remember. Whether you’re at a trade show, conference or heading to a special event, you can share your local flavor rather than “yet another water bottle.” People love local products (image) A tasty sample from Head Country sauces in Ponca City that is easy to take home. I often give visitors Shawnee Mills cornbread mix packets when they come through Oklahoma or I visit them. Cornbread is an important cultural food to me. Even though I live a few hours from Shawnee, it’s local enough. And people love it when I share stories about my grandmother making cornbread. That’s what local products do. At their best, they tell a story about your place. Head Country BBQ Sauce in Ponca City, Oklahoma, once made mini 3-ounce bottles specifically as swag. Small enough to meet TSA liquid rules, so visitors could take it home even when flying. Make it yours and theirs You can co-brand if you want: add your sticker or tag to local sauces, seasoning mix, or whatever fits your business. Or just hand it over as-is with your business card (or your loyalty card). Those Head Country sample bottles included some promotional text about Ponca City, done in cooperation with their economic development team. (Go, Ponca!) Shawnee Mills actually does custom mixes, and that would be so much cooler than a generic water bottle with your logo. When I managed a liquor store and was participating in social media conferences, I took mini 50ml bottles of liquor, added a little card from Moo printers, and used that as my calling card. People would fight over them! (image) My liquor store business cards for social media events. Photo by Crystal Storm. It’s better marketing When you give someone local products, you’re not just promoting your business. You’re showing that you support other local businesses. That’s good marketing for you and good for your community. Next time you need swag, look local first Walk around your downtown. Check out local makers and producers. See what’s already on the shelves at local shops. Look --- ## Twenty Years of Small Biz Survival URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/twenty-years-of-small-biz-survival/ Type: post Modified: 2026-02-05 Twenty years ago today, I hit “publish” on the first post here at SmallBizSurvival.com. I was sitting in the backroom of my liquor store in Alva, Oklahoma, population at the time of just under 5,000 and dropping. That very first post asked: ‘Can you build a growing small business in a declining small town?’ I’ve […] Twenty years ago today, I hit “publish” on the first post here at SmallBizSurvival.com. I was sitting in the backroom of my liquor store in Alva, Oklahoma, population at the time of just under 5,000 and dropping. That very first post asked: ‘Can you build a growing small business in a declining small town?’ I’ve spent twenty years proving the answer is yes. (image) I started this blog because I’m a small town entrepreneur, and I believed then (still do) that small town entrepreneurs have a lot to teach other businesses. When local entrepreneurs prosper, they help their small town prosper, too. That was January 14, 2006. A lot has changed since then. A lot of other blogs have come and gone. But we’re still here. The People Who Made This Possible I can’t talk about twenty years without talking about the people who’ve contributed their knowledge, their stories, and their time to this rural corner of the internet. My mom, Glenna Mae Hendricks (Maesz), shared tax tips and accounting wisdom that helped so many small business owners sleep better at night. She’s since passed on, leaving a real legacy. Jeanne Cole was one of our earliest contributors, a friend from long before I started the blog who showed up when it mattered. Glenn Muske brought decades of Extension service experience and true expertise on micro-businesses. Deb Brown, my co-founder at SaveYour.Town, has contributed her retail knowledge and real-world small town business experience. And there have been so many guest contributors over the years: Jon Swanson, H.E. James, Zane Safrit, Barry Moltz, Sheila Scarborough, Marci Penner, John Warrillow, Shannon Ehlers and Scott Meyer. What Blogging Brought Me Here’s what I didn’t expect when I started: blogging was the step that made everything on my career goal list possible. (Of course I had a career goal list! If you know me, then you know.) Chris Brogan was my first blog friend. He got me involved in his early podcasting projects starting with Grasshopper New Media in 2006. Then other media ventures like Owner Magazine. He’s the one who convinced me to join Twitter in 2006 when it was brand new (my user number was 10,318), back before hashtags or even @ names existed. Chris is really the biggest reason blogging turned into more for me over the years. In 2020, he came back to guest post here. Thanks, Chris! Then there was Liz Strauss of Successful-Blog.com. She handed out Successful Outstanding Blogger awards and called us SOBs, which was hilarious. Liz connected me with so many other people. At her SOBCon event, I met Barry Moltz, who became my co-author for our award-winning book Small Town Rules. Liz got me early speaking roles at BlogWorld Expo in 2008 and ’09. We spoke together as a duo at SXSW in 2010. Rest in peace, Liz. Those connections led to more connections. Speaking opportunities. My work with Sheila Scarborough creating Tourism Currents. Eventually, the work Deb Brown and I do at SaveYour.Town. The Survey of Rural Challenges that started as a topic survey for this blog and has now reached over 2,200 rural folks. My second book The Idea Friendly Guide. Speaking engagements from local community centers to Harvard Kennedy School and international stages. None of that would have happened without me hitting publish on January 14, 2006. What We’ve Built Together The recognition has been humbling. Top 10 Best Small Business Blogs by Feedly and FeedSpot, as of today. Top 25 by Technorati for a brief moment during the height of the blog competition. Selected for syndication through LexisNexis, Thomson Business Intelligence, MyVenturePad. Named a Small Business Influencer multiple years running and a Power Player in Technology Business Media. (image) Look how SmallBizSurvival had grown by 2008! Our long-running Brag Basket, where people shared their own successes. The podcasts, video streams and e --- ## Letting Go of the Life You Were Told to Want URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/letting-go-of-the-life-you-were-told-to-want/ Type: post Modified: 2026-01-24 “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson Ever since I was about four years old, I knew I was different from the other kids. I was always on the outside looking in. As I approach middle age, I’ve never shaken that feeling—the knowing—of being different. We live in a noisy world where we find whatever we seek. If we’re looking for validation that we don’t belong, that’s exactly what we’ll find. While flawed, the standard ‘life blueprint’ hasn’t quite sailed off into … “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson Ever since I was about four years old, I knew I was different from the other kids. I was always on the outside looking in. As I approach middle age, I’ve never shaken that feeling—the knowing—of being different. We live in a noisy world where we find whatever we seek. If we’re looking for validation that we don’t belong, that’s exactly what we’ll find. While flawed, the standard ‘life blueprint’ hasn’t quite sailed off into the sunset. The path to happiness, according to societal norms and expectations, goes something like: Getting the degree Climbing the corporate ladder Finding ‘the one’ Having children and the ‘dream’ family Buying the fancy house, the car or whatever else we desire Buckling up for retirement and living ‘happily ever after’ Let’s Stop Selling People the Fairytale For many, life’s expectations sink so deeply into their bones that they hardly pause to ask: Do I actually want this life? Am I simply following the path I was told to walk? The reality is that, as someone living through the experience, choosing a life that doesn’t look like everyone else’s can be confronting. I’m single at thirty-eight and have no kids and live alone. I always say everything has its pros and cons, but when I am alone with no outside noise to sway me, I am genuinely content. I feel this at my core. I’m home. The Heavy Weight of the Word ‘Should’ I despise the word “should.” It’s a heavy word because it comes wrapped in fear. More pointedly, fear of letting people down, of being rejected, of daring to dream of something that isn’t on the tried and tested path, and ultimately, the fear of getting lost in uncertainty. I was never a fan of ticking boxes. Even more so when I learned through experience that every box left me feeling emptier. Recently, I’ve become increasingly interested in the origins of societal ideas. We are the only people walking in our shoes and experiencing this world as we do. Checklists may seem comforting thanks to their supposed certainty, but I speak from experience when I say they are suffocating when they fail to align with who we truly are. What would happen if you engaged in a self-audit on the “shoulds” in your life? You’d be surprised at how often the word pops up. I know I was. Being Open to Curiosity Curiosity is a superpower. If people asked questions more than they assumed, the world would be a softer place. When I was younger, I remember a family member saying something along the lines of, “Everyone wants to find their person, settle down, and have kids.” Even as a teenager, I knew that assertion didn’t sit right with me. How can everyone on this planet have the same life path and desires? Permitting ourselves to ask the uncomfortable questions is a gift in the long term because it helps to prevent us from creating a life where we are playing a character rather than truly living. What if I don’t want children? What if owning a home isn’t important to me? What if [enter whatever your greatest desire is] doesn’t make me feel how I think it will? Listening to the Wisdom of Our Body It’s odd to me how we compartmentalize mental, physical, and emotional health and well-being. There’s no mental health without physical health and vice versa. The body knows before the mind latches on. That sinking heaviness in your chest when you picture a future you don’t truly want. The flutter of lightness when you imagine an alternative that feels more aligned, even if it scares you. This is not your imagination. Our bodies are constantly speaking to us on a 24/7 basis, willing us to listen. Learning to listen to our body’s signals can be a compass. If a decision leaves you feeling constricted, drained, or resentful, it may not be congruent with your values. If it leaves you feeling expansive, calm, or quietly excited, it may be pointing you toward your version of freedom. Of course, this doesn’t mean the path will always be easy (it won’t), but it will be yours. And there is peace in that. Facing the Fear of Judgment Let’s be honest: choosing a life that is counterculture often means facing judgement. Lots of people think all kinds of things about me. I let them because correcting them isn’t important to me. Here’s what I know for sure: Family often question our choices Friends don’t always understand People fear change and the uncommon Here’s the truth: People are often most unsettled not by our choices, but by the mirror our choices reflect back to them. When you step outside the script, you remind others that they, too, have the option to choose differently. For some, that’s inspiring. For others, it’s threatening. Creating Your Own Life, Not Someone Else’s The beauty of life lies in diversity. Your version of a meaningful life may shift and evolve as you do, and that’s okay. What matters most is you choose it consciously rather than by default. Choosing a life that doesn’t look like everyone else’s isn’t about rebellion for the sake of it. It’s about alignment. It’s about living in a way that honors your values, nourishes your well-being, and allows you to show up authentically. I’m not here to offer fun tips and tricks. I assure you that if you feel you are destined for something greater or more, you’re not alone. So what will you choose? If you feel your life doesn’t fit into a standard mold, you aren’t broken. You are simply hearing the call to create something authentic for yourself. It takes courage to step off the well-worn path. And every time you choose your own version of enough—your own rhythms, joys, and definitions of success—you make space for others to do the same. The world doesn’t need more cookie-cutter lives; it needs people who are brave enough to live in alignment with their hearts. See more posts Get More Articles Sarah Cannata is the creator of Storytelling for the Soul. She uses journaling and body-based practices to help women in midlife and beyond reconnect with themselves and gently shift how they live and feel. Get your Copy Of Emotional Wellness eBook Web | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. --- ## The Power of Imperfect Work in an AI-Driven, Perfection-Obsessed World URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-power-of-imperfect-work-in-an-ai-driven-perfection-obsessed-world/ Type: post Modified: 2026-01-18   Why Perfectionism Is More Dangerous in the Age of AI AI tools can generate clean, fast, and mistake-free content. While impressive, this creates an unhealthy comparison—humans versus machines on machine terms. Imperfection as a Competitive Advantage Human creativity carries context, emotion, and lived experience. Imperfection signals authenticity and builds trust. Real Work Creates Real Connection People connect with honesty, not polish. Imperfect work feels alive because it reflects real effort and vulnerability. How to Share Work Before It Feels Ready Publish at 80%, not 100% Reframe mistakes as meaning Optimize for connection, not perfection Author: Awung NgangOrganization: Success King Marketplace Inc.Category: Personal Growth / AI & Humanity / Creativity  How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior. You can also follow Awung Ngang on Instagram, , and Amazon. Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. MoreReaings: The Power of Imperfect Work in an AI-Driven, Perfection-Obsessed World “Have no fear of perfection—you’ll never reach it.” — Salvador Dalí We live in a world that worships polish. Perfect photos on Instagram. Seamless podcasts with no awkward pauses. Articles that read like they’ve passed through a dozen editors. And now, with AI tools capable of producing mistake-free writing in seconds, the bar feels even higher. Machines generate flawless sentences, perfect grammar, and polished ideas on demand. Meanwhile, I find myself second-guessing a paragraph, rewriting the same sentence six different ways, and still wondering whether “Best” or “Warmly” is the least awkward email sign-off. It’s easy to feel like our messy, human work doesn’t measure up. I’ve fallen into that trap more times than I care to admit. I’ve delayed publishing because something “wasn’t ready.” I’ve rerecorded audio because I stumbled on a word. I’ve tweaked formatting details no one else would ever notice. Perfectionism whispers: If it isn’t flawless, don’t share it. Over time, though, I’ve learned something important: imperfection is not a liability. It’s the point. A Table Full of Flaws One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned about imperfection didn’t come from writing or technology, but from woodworking. About a decade ago, I decided to build a dining table. I spent hours measuring, cutting, sanding, and staining. I wanted it to be perfect. But here’s the reality of woodworking: nothing ever turns out perfect. From across the room, the table looks solid. Up close, the flaws appear. A board mismeasured by a quarter inch. A corner oversanded. A stain that didn’t set evenly. At first, I saw those flaws as failures—evidence that I wasn’t skilled enough or careful enough. Then my wife walked into the room, looked at the finished table, and said she loved it. She didn’t see the mistakes. She saw something made with care. Eventually, I learned to see it that way too. That table isn’t just furniture. It’s proof of effort, patience, and process. It carries my fingerprints, my frustration, and my imperfect humanity. And somehow, it’s far more fulfilling than anything mass-produced or machine-perfect. Why Imperfection Connects Us That table taught me something AI never could: flaws tell a story. Machines can produce flawless output, but they can’t create meaning. They can’t replicate the pride of working with your hands or the warmth of laughter around a table that wobbled for the first month. Imperfections are what make something ours. They carry quirks, context, and lived experience. Perfection, by contrast, is often sterile. Impressive, yes—but rarely alive. Think about what moves you most: a vulnerable story shared by a friend, a laugh that turns into a snort, a speaker who loses their train of thought and recovers with honesty. Connection usually happens not in polished moments, but in real ones. Imperfection reminds us we’re not alone. The AI Contrast AI is impressive because it never hesitates. It never doubts. It never sends an awkward message or spills coffee on a keyboard. It can do flawless. But flawless isn’t the same as meaningful. AI doesn’t feel the mix of pride and embarrassment that comes with showing someone your imperfect work. It doesn’t know the joy of a meal that didn’t go exactly as planned. It doesn’t experience the nerves of hitting “publish,” followed by a message that says, “This made me feel less alone.” Flawlessness may be a machine’s strength. Humanity is ours. The quirks, rough edges, and imperfections I once tried to hide are often the very things that make my work worth sharing. A Different Kind of Readiness I used to believe I needed to wait until something was “ready.” The post polished just right. The podcast perfectly edited. The message refined until it was immune to criticism. What I’ve learned is that readiness is often an illusion. More often than not, it’s perfectionism wearing a more respectable mask. Some of the work that resonated most—the messages people referenced months later, the content I almost didn’t share—felt too raw, too messy, too real at the time. And those were the pieces people said, “This is exactly what I needed.” Not the flawless ones. The human ones. How to Embrace Imperfection This isn’t easy. Perfectionism is subtle and persistent. It often disguises itself as “high standards” or “being thorough.” These aren’t rules—just reminders I return to: Share before you feel ready. If it’s 80% there, release it. The last 20% is often endless polishing. Reframe mistakes as meaning. The flaws in my table became conversation starters. Yours might too. Notice where connection happens. It’s rarely in the shiny parts. It’s in the honest ones. The Bigger Picture We live in a culture obsessed with speed, optimization, and polish. AI amplifies that pressure, tempting us to compete on machine terms: instant, flawless, infinite. But that isn’t the game we’re meant to play. Our advantage is being human. We bring nuance, empathy, humor, vulnerability, and lived experience. Machines don’t laugh until they snort. They don’t get emotional during movies. They don’t mismeasure wood and still create something meaningful. We do. So maybe we don’t need to sand down every rough edge. Maybe we don’t need to hide every flaw. In a world flooded with machine-polished perfection, imperfect human work doesn’t disappear—it stands out. And those are the things people remember. About Awung Ngang; Awung Ngang is a digital entrepreneur, author, and founder of Success King Marketplace Inc. He writes about creativity, personal growth, digital business, and the human side of technology in an AI-driven world. Through his work, Awung helps creators, entrepreneurs, and everyday thinkers embrace progress without losing authenticity, purpose, or humanity. Web | More Posts Get in the conversation — leave a comment and share your perspective. Keywords: imperfect work, power of imperfect work, imperfect creativity, human creativity, AI driven world, perfection obsessed culture, perfectionism, authenticity in content, human vs AI, AI and creativity, human centered content, creativity in the age of AI, imperfect content, authentic work, personal growth mindset, vulnerability in creativity, meaningful work, creative process, imperfection as strength, digital creativity, content creation mindset, thought leadership writing, human connection, emotional authenticity, creative confidence, overcoming perfectionism, originality in AI era, creator mindset, imperfect action, publish before perfect, real human stories Hashtags; #ImperfectWork #HumanCreativity #AIAndHumanity #AuthenticityMatters #Perfectionism #CreativeMindset #CreatorEconomy #ThoughtLeadership #ContentCreators #DigitalCreativity #CreativityInTheAgeOfAI #HumanCentered #ImperfectAction #PersonalGrowth #RealNotPerfect #MeaningfulWork #CreativeProcess #Vulnerability #EntrepreneurMindset #BuildInPublic #AuthenticContent #AIThoughtLeadership #FutureOfWork #HumanOverHype #SuccessKingMarketplace --- ## Book your dream trip—fast, easy, and affordable URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/book-your-dream-trip-fast-easy-and-affordable/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-31 Book Your Dream Trip Today!32975-394513987_large2849-163375551_large (1)230248_large (1)233896_large2849-163375551_large Book Your Dream Trip Today! Easy, Fast, and Affordable Travel Bookings.   Discover the ultimate travel booking experience with Booking.com Services at SK Markets Inc Onestop Shop. Whether you’re planning a dream vacation or a business trip, our platform Success King Marketing Inc offers seamless and efficient solutions tailored to your needs. Explore a world of possibilities with our extensive network of travel options, from flights and accommodations to car rentals and more. Our user-friendly interface ensures that booking your next adventure is a hassle-free process, providing you with competitive prices and the best deals available Directly with Booking.com. With SK Markets Inc., your travel dreams are just a click away. Experience the convenience and peace of mind that comes with booking through a trusted platform dedicated to making your travel experience unforgettable. Easy, Fast, and Affordable Travel Bookings. Hashtags; #TravelBookings #SKMarkets #BookingDotCom #TravelDeals #AdventureAwaits #BusinessTravel #TravelMadeEasy #ExploreTheWorld #AffordableTravel #TravelWithConfidence #SeamlessTravel #DreamVacation #Wanderlust #TravelSmart #BookYourTrip Youtube: travel, booking, travel bookings, Booking.com, SK Markets, vacation planning, business travel, car rentals, travel deals, affordable travel, seamless booking, travel services --- ## Automattic Gets $300M Investment, Now What? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/automattic-gets-300m-investment-now-what/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-18 Automattic, the company that runs WordPress.com and many other services like JetPack, WooCommerce and more has received $300 million USD in funding from Salesforce. What does this mean WordPress going forward? The post Automattic Gets $300M Investment, Now What? appeared first on HighEdWebTech. (image) Last year, I wrote about my experience of getting to 500,000 public story views on Snapchat. While fully acknowledging that I am not Snap’s target demographic, it’s been interesting to watch the rise, dip and potential rise again of this company. This is a critical time for the social media platform, as new networks like TikTok are gaining a lot of steam globally, especially in higher ed. Today, I write to let you know that earlier this summer, I crossed the million public story views milestone. On my Snapchat. I know, it’s nutty. It’s strange to think people around the world have watched 40 days worth of my content. My content? It’s not terribly interesting. It’s a lot of food shots taken while I’m travelling and vinyl I’ve been listening to lately. Observations on a million Snapchat views First, Snapchat isn’t dead. While it’s certainly not aimed at me and people my age, it’s still used heavily by its younger users. My oldest is nearly 18 years old, and most of the time his phone is open to Snapchat or Instagram. It’s a big communication tool for one to one and group chats. Second, the analytics available to power users haven’t changed all the much. I wrote about Snap’s analytics tools when they first launched last year and the tool hasn’t evolved. The stats are still top level, and while they’re interesting (location, interest), they aren’t much more than superficial. There isn’t much in the way of actionable intel here to work with or make decisions with. Snap tells me I’m popular in Greater London as well as my public Snaps are 7x more popular than average amongst people who are fans of cricket. I dig cricket, but I’ve never posted a Snap or story about cricket. There’s a lot of room for improvement here. Third, consistency is key when it comes to views. When I was posting regularly, often daily, I would get more views, often to the tune of 7-10k views per story.  I haven’t posted much this year, and that number hovers between one and two thousand views per post. If you want to grow your public views, post a lot and regularly. Finally, Snap will still not give you a total number of views. Maybe if you’re a big brand that has a high ad spent, you can see those types of analytic data, but I can’t. I’d love to know how many people follow me, instead Snap just tells me who recent followers are. That’s disappointing. I hope Snap rebounds and keeps adding new and interesting features. They certainly are doing great work around their lens and filters and just this week they announced a new version of their Spectacles wearable. The post What I’ve Learned from a Million Public Story Views on SnapChat appeared first on HighEdWebTech. Keywords; Automattic, WordPress, WordPress.com, Salesforce investment, WordPress future, WordPress ecosystem, WooCommerce, Jetpack, open-source CMS, digital publishing, content management system, WP community, WordPress strategy, WordPress growth, WordPress platform, impact of Salesforce funding on WordPress,Automattic investment WordPress future, WordPress.com roadmap post-Salesforce funding, WooCommerce and Jetpack growth with new funding, open-source CMS funding trends, WordPress ecosystem strategy after investment   #OpenSource #CMS #DigitalPublishing #WebDevelopment #WebTech #TechNews #WordPressEcosystem #WordPressFuture #OpenSourceCMS #WPCommunity #WordPressCommunity #EcommercePlatform   --- ## How Menopause Exposed the Hidden Trauma I Spent Years Ignoring URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-menopause-exposed-the-hidden-trauma-i-spent-years-ignoring/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-12 “There is no way to be whole without first embracing our brokenness. Wounds transform us, if we let them.” ~Sue Monk Kidd Menopause flagged up everything unresolved, unmet, and unchallenged and asked me to meet it with grace. I’m not saying it was an overnight thing—more like a ten-year process of discovery, rollercoaster style. One of those “strap yourself in, no brakes, no seatbelt, possibly no survival” rides. If I’m honest, the process is still unfolding, but with less “aaaaggggghhhhh” and more “oh.” Having mentally swapped Nemesis Inferno for It’s a Small World, I can now look back with … “There is no way to be whole without first embracing our brokenness. Wounds transform us, if we let them.” ~Sue Monk Kidd Menopause flagged up everything unresolved, unmet, and unchallenged and asked me to meet it with grace. I’m not saying it was an overnight thing—more like a ten-year process of discovery, rollercoaster style. One of those “strap yourself in, no brakes, no seatbelt, possibly no survival” rides. If I’m honest, the process is still unfolding, but with less “aaaaggggghhhhh” and more “oh.” Having mentally swapped Nemesis Inferno for It’s a Small World, I can now look back with deep compassion for that younger version of me at the start of perimenopause.  She was the one frantically Googling her way through a vortex of symptoms, never quite able to figure out whether it was a brain tumor or an underactive thyroid gland. It all started when I was around thirty-five (for context, I’m now forty-nine). I’d just moved to Brighton from Cheshire to do a degree in songwriting at BIMM and threw myself into it with all the gusto of a twenty-four-year-old; after all, I had it…the gusto, that is. That first year was wild, to say the least, but then, the ground beneath me started to fracture. My mind would go blank on stage. The keyboard started looking like a fuzzy blob of jelly. My heart would pound through the night for no apparent reason. I gained a spare tire around my middle. I’d walk into town and have a panic attack, clutching the wall of a bank while strangers side-eyed me with pity or concern. My libido shot through the roof like a horny teenager. The rage was volcanic, and my poor partner couldn’t even breathe next to me without triggering a tirade (I see the dichotomy too). It was a maelstrom of symptoms that even Dr. Google couldn’t unpack, and yeah, neither could my actual doctor, but that’s for another time. The real unraveling came when I went on tour with a band at age forty-two. It was supposed to be fun-fun-fun, except it wasn’t. It was hell-hell-hell. Ten days, and I slept properly for only one of them. I came home wrecked, assuming that once I returned to my bed and the stability of my beloved, I’d be fine. But I wasn’t. That’s when insomnia truly began. I’d ‘learned’ how not to sleep, and now my mind was sabotaging me on a loop. In desperation, I booked in with a functional medicine practitioner who ran some lab tests. The results were “low everything,” and that was the first time I heard the word perimenopause. I didn’t think much of it at the time—standard denial. But the word lodged itself somewhere. Around the same time, I was running a speaker event in Brighton and immersing myself in therapeutic modalities as part of my own healing. Music, my first (well, actually second) career, had started to feel more frightening than exhilarating. In my search for calm, I stumbled upon a modality called RTT, a kind of deep subconscious reset done under hypnosis, which changed everything for me and launched me into a new career pathway. As I continued learning and applying what I was discovering, a huge lightbulb moment landed: “Hang on… A lot of the stories I’m hearing from women in midlife involve more than just symptoms; they involve deep, relational wounds.  I wonder if there’s a link between menopause symptom severity and childhood experiences?” So, I turned to Google Scholar to see if anyone else had spotted this link, and sure enough, there it was. I came across a 2021 study in Maturitas that found women with higher ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) scores were up to 9.6 times more likely to experience severe menopausal symptoms, even when things like anxiety, depression, and HRT were factored in. That blew my mind. Another 2023 study from Emory University showed that perimenopausal women with trauma histories demonstrated significantly higher levels of PTSD and depression than those in other hormonal phases. That explained so much of what I was feeling too.  And then I found a 2017 paper in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry showing that women who experienced two or more ACEs were over 2.5 times more likely to have their first major depressive episode during menopause, even if they had no prior history of depression.  Finally, a recent 2024 review framed early trauma as a key driver of hormonal sensitivity, especially during life transitions like perimenopause. It helped me see that my struggles weren’t random or my fault; there was something a lot deeper at play. But I was still confused. What was the biological mechanism behind all of this? Dun dun dah… I found a peer-reviewed paper in Frontiers in Medicine that helped me connect the dots. Take a breath. In trauma-exposed women, our GABA receptors become altered. These receptors, which help calm the nervous system, rely on a metabolite of progesterone called allopregnanolone. But trauma can disrupt both our ability to break down progesterone into allopregnanolone and our ability to receive its effects at the cellular level (because the GABA receptors become dysfunctional). So basically, that means even if we have enough progesterone, we might not be able to use it properly. The ensuing result is that we become more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations, and we can’t receive the soothing effects we should be getting from progesterone. As I began to piece all this together, I was forced to confront something in my own history. Because frankly, I thought I had a happy childhood. That is, until I came across a concept that stopped me in my tracks. It felt so close to home, I literally clapped the book shut. It’s called enmeshment trauma. It’s a type of relational trauma that often leads to symptoms of CPTSD (which, just to remind you, tends to flare up during menopause). But the thing is, enmeshment hides in plain sight often under the guise of “closeness.” We prided ourselves on being a close family… too close, in fact. I was an only child with nothing to buffer me from the scrutiny of my parents and the emotional load they placed on me. They’d confide in me about each other as if I were their best friend or therapist. I didn’t know it then, but their lack of emotional maturity meant they were leaning on me for unconditional emotional support. I was a good listener and a very tuned-in child. I became parentified. Praised and validated for my precociousness, while being robbed of the ability to safely individuate. I was “allowed” to find myself, but the price I paid was emotional withdrawal from my father, equally painful as we’d been so close. It was confusing and overwhelming, and I had no one to help me metabolize those feelings. It wired me for hyper-responsibility, anxiety, and guilt. Not exactly the best recipe for a smooth menopause transition, which requires slowness, ease, and softness. As a textbook “daddy’s girl,” I unconsciously sought out older men, bosses, teachers, even married guys. Their energy felt familiar. Meanwhile, emotionally available prospects seemed boring, even if they were safer. That attachment chaos added more voltage to the CPTSD pot I had no idea was simmering under the surface of my somewhat narcissistic facade. The final ingredient in this complex trauma marinade was a stunted ability to individuate financially. I was still clinging to my parents’ purse strings at age forty-four. The shame, frustration, and despair all came to a head when I dove into the biggest self-sabotaging episode of my life: I decided to leave my long-term relationship. He was my rock and my stability. But “daddy’s girl” wanted one last encore. And when he refused to take me back, despite my pleading, it was a mess. But, in a twist of grace, my father had taught me grit. How to get out of a hole. And that’s exactly what I did. I learned to stand on my own two feet financially. I learned the power of committing to one person and treating them with respect. I learned to set boundaries and become deliciously self-preserving with my energy, because that’s what the menopause transition demanded of me. And if it weren’t for those wild hormonal shifts, I’m not sure I’d have learned any of this. Through my experience, I’ve come to see that menopause isn’t just a hormonal event. It’s a complete life transition, both inner and outer. A transition deeply influenced by the state of our nervous system and our capacity for resilience and emotional flexibility. For those of us with trauma, this resilience and flexibility is often impaired. Hormone therapy can help, yes, but for sensitive systems, it’s only part of the puzzle. And sometimes, it can even make things worse, especially if not dosed correctly. As sensitive, trauma-aware women navigating these hormonal shifts, there’s so much we can do to support ourselves outside of the medical model. Slowing it all down is one of the most powerful ways we can create space for the ‘busy work’ our bodies are diligently undertaking during this transition. Gentle, nourishing movement. Yoga Nidra. Early nights. Simple, healthy meals. Earthing and grounding in nature. Magnesium baths. Dry body brushing. Castor oil packs. Vaginal steaming. Think: self-care on steroids. But perhaps the most radical thing I ever did was to carve out more space in my diary just to S.L.O.W.  D.O.W.N. Now, eighteen months post-menopause, I find myself reflecting. What did she teach me? She flagged up everything unresolved, unmet, and unchallenged. She showed me where I was still saying yes to others and no to myself. She taught me that I need more space than society finds comfortable. She helped me let go of beauty standards and gave me time for rest. She absolved me of guilt for not living according to others’ expectations. She reframed my symptoms as love letters from my inner child, calling me home to myself. See more posts About Sally Garozzo Sally Garozzo is a clinical hypnotherapist and curious explorer of the midlife and menopause transition inside her podcast The Menopause Mindset. After a winding journey through music, anxiety, and unexpected hormone chaos, she now helps others navigate their own transitions through hypnotherapy. Her passion is helping others reclaim agency over their lives during menopause and beyond. Visit her at sallygarozzo.com and on Instagram and Facebook. Web | Facebook | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. --- ## How to Stay Kind Without Losing Yourself to Toxic Behavior URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-to-stay-kind-without-losing-yourself-to-toxic-behavior/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-12 “The strongest people are the ones who are still kind after the world tore them apart.” — Raven Emotion A few months ago, I made a painful but necessary choice: I stepped back from a friendship I had long treated as family. My best friend from childhood had become more than a peer—he felt like a brother. Yet over time, his words grew cruel and dismissive toward my feelings. In the past five years, he shifted from light-hearted ribbing to sharp criticism about my optimism and my stubborn refusal to give up. He would gently, then aggressively, question my choices, labeling my hope as naiveté and my perseverance as a “failure.” Week after week, I heard remarks that chipped away at my confidence. I wanted to believe there was a way to hold onto kindness without letting it be a door mat for insults. I tried to understand him, to see the world from his perspective, to meet him where he was. I explained how his words affected me; I set boundaries; I asked for respect. And when the boundary-crossing continued, I had to make a choice: protect my well-being, even if it meant letting go of someone who had once felt like family. The decision was painful—yet it was also clarifying. Kindness isn’t a free pass for mistreatment. True kindness isn’t self-denying; it’s self-respecting. The strength to stay compassionate while safeguarding your own heart isn’t a contradiction—it’s a discipline. In the chapters that follow, I share the practical steps I learned for staying kind without losing myself to toxic behavior: establishing firm boundaries, communicating with clarity, recognizing when a relationship has become unhealthy, and cultivating a life that rewards kindness with resilience rather than erosion. If you’ve ever found yourself doubting whether kindness can coexist with self-protection, you’re not alone. This book is written for you — for anyone who wants to preserve their gentleness while still standing up for their own dignity. You deserve relationships that lift you up, not ones that chip away at your sense of self. And you can be the kind, hopeful person you are—without sacrificing your mental and emotional health in the process. Get The Complete eBook Here: Hashtags: #staying kind #boundaries #toxic relationships #self-care #resilience  #personal growth #how to say no #dealing with critics #healthy friendships #emotional boundaries   Get This Must Have eBook; Balancing Kindness and Boundaries: A Guide For Parents And Professionals   --- ## Learning to Be Seen After a Childhood Spent Disappearing URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/learning-to-be-seen-after-a-childhood-spent-disappearing/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-11 “The habits you created to survive will no longer serve you when it’s time to thrive.” ~Eboni Davis I learned early how to measure the danger in a room. With a narcissistic mother, the air could shift in an instant—her tone slicing through me, reminding me that my feelings had no place. With an alcoholic stepfather, the threat was louder, heavier, and more unpredictable. I still remember the slam of bottles on the counter, the crack of his voice turning to fists, the way I would hold my breath in the dark, hoping the storm would pass without landing on … “The habits you created to survive will no longer serve you when it’s time to thrive.” ~Eboni Davis I learned early how to measure the danger in a room. With a narcissistic mother, the air could shift in an instant—her tone slicing through me, reminding me that my feelings had no place. With an alcoholic stepfather, the threat was louder, heavier, and more unpredictable. I still remember the slam of bottles on the counter, the crack of his voice turning to fists, the way I would hold my breath in the dark, hoping the storm would pass without landing on me. In that house, love wasn’t safe. Love was survival. And survival meant disappearing—making myself small, silent, and invisible so I wouldn’t take up too much space in a world already drowning in chaos. In a home like that, there was no space to simply be a child. My mother’s moods came first—her pain, her need for control. With her, I learned to hide the parts of myself that were “too much” because nothing I did was ever enough. With my stepfather, I learned to walk carefully, always scanning for danger, always bracing for the next eruption. So I became the quiet one. The peacekeeper. The invisible daughter who tried to keep the house from falling apart, even when it already was. I carried a weight far too heavy for my small shoulders, believing it was my job to make things okay, even though deep down, I knew I couldn’t. Those patterns didn’t stay in the walls of my childhood home; they followed me into adulthood. I carried silence like a second skin, disappearing in relationships whenever love began to feel unsafe. I learned to give until I was empty, to lose myself in caring for others, to believe that if I stayed quiet enough, small enough, I might finally be loved. But love that required me to vanish was never love at all. It was survival all over again. I found myself repeating the same patterns, choosing partners who mirrored the chaos I had grown up with, shutting down whenever I felt too much. I confused pain for love, silence for safety, and in doing so, I abandoned myself again and again. The cost was heavy: years of feeling invisible, unworthy, and unseen. Years of believing my voice didn’t matter, my needs were too much, and my story was something to hide. For a long time, I believed this was just who I was—invisible, unworthy, built to carry pain. But there came a night when even survival felt too heavy. I was sitting in the cold, in a tent I was calling home, with nothing but silence pressing in around me. The air was damp, my body shivering beneath thin blankets, every sound outside reminding me how unsafe and alone I felt. And for the first time, instead of disappearing into that silence, I whispered, “I can’t keep living like this.” The words were shaky, but they felt like a lifeline—the first honest thing I had said to myself in years. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation. Nothing changed overnight. But something inside me cracked open, a small ember of truth I hadn’t let myself feel before: I deserved more than this. I was worthy of more than surviving. That whisper became a seed. I started writing again, pouring the words I could never say onto paper. Slowly, those words became a lifeline—a way of reclaiming the voice I had silenced for so long. Every page reminded me that my story mattered, even if no one else had ever said it. And piece by piece, I began to believe it. Survival patterns protect us, but they don’t have to define us. For years, disappearing kept me safe. Staying quiet shielded me from conflict I couldn’t control. But surviving isn’t the same as living, and the patterns that once protected me no longer have to shape who I am becoming. Writing can be a way of reclaiming your voice. When I couldn’t speak, I wrote. Every sentence became proof that I existed, that my story was real, that I had something worth saying. Sometimes healing begins with a pen and a page—the simple act of letting your truth take shape outside of you. It is not selfish to take up space. Growing up, I believed my needs were too much, my presence a burden. But the truth is that we all deserve to be seen, to be heard, to take up space in the world without apology. We don’t have to heal alone. So much of my pain came from carrying everything in silence. Healing has taught me that there is strength in being witnessed, in letting others hold us when the weight is too much to carry by ourselves. I still carry the echoes of that house—the silence, the chaos, the parts of me that once believed I wasn’t worthy of love. But today, I hold them differently. They no longer define me; they remind me of how far I’ve come. I cannot change the family I was born into or the pain that shaped me. But I can choose how I grow from it. And that choice—to soften instead of harden, to speak instead of disappear, to heal instead of carry it all in silence—has changed everything. I am still learning, still growing, still coming home to myself. But I no longer disappear. I know now that my story matters—and so does yours. So I invite you to pause and ask yourself: Where have you mistaken survival for love? What parts of you have learned to stay silent, and what might happen if you gave them a voice? Even the smallest whisper of truth can be the beginning of a new life. Your story matters too. May you find the courage to stop surviving and begin truly living. May we all learn to take up space without apology, to speak our truths without fear, and to find safety not in silence, but in love. See more posts About Tracy Lynn Tracy Lynn is the founder of From Darkness We Grow, a healing space for those who carry emotional pain in silence. Through journals, courses, and her online community, The Healing Circle, she helps others reclaim their voice and remember their worth. Connect with Tracy at fromdarknesswegrow.com. You can also find support in The Healing Circle. Web | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. --- ## What Finally Helped Me Break Free from Constant Food Noise URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/what-finally-helped-me-break-free-from-constant-food-noise/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-05 “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.” ~Viktor Frankl For years, I thought something was wrong with me. No matter what I was doing—sitting in a meeting, walking the dog, or watching TV—my brain was busy debating food. Should I eat? Shouldn’t I? I could just have one more bite, couldn’t I? What should I eat next? I’ve blown it today, haven’t I? I’ve failed again. Shall I just eat whatever I want and start again tomorrow? The chatter was constant. It left me exhausted, ashamed, and convinced that … “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.” ~Viktor Frankl For years, I thought something was wrong with me. No matter what I was doing—sitting in a meeting, walking the dog, or watching TV—my brain was busy debating food. Should I eat? Shouldn’t I? I could just have one more bite, couldn’t I? What should I eat next? I’ve blown it today, haven’t I? I’ve failed again. Shall I just eat whatever I want and start again tomorrow? The chatter was constant. It left me exhausted, ashamed, and convinced that I was weak. I told myself it was a lack of willpower. If I just tried harder, surely I could silence it. But the harder I fought, the louder it became. The Night Everything Changed One night, after a long and stressful day, I stood in the kitchen with the fridge door open. I wasn’t hungry. My stomach was full from dinner, but my mind was shouting at me to grab something, anything. The noise in my head felt unbearable. It was as if I couldn’t relax until I gave in. In that moment, for the first time, I paused. I asked myself a simple question: What am I really hungry for right now? The answer wasn’t food. It was comfort. Distraction. Relief from stress I hadn’t dealt with. It hit me that food wasn’t the real problem. The problem was the mental chatter about food, what many people now call food noise. What I Discovered About Food Noise Food noise isn’t hunger. Hunger is physical: your stomach growling, your energy dipping, your body asking for fuel. Food noise is mental: urgent, repetitive, often specific. It pushes you toward food even when you’re not hungry, convincing you that you need it to cope or to feel better. Learning this was a turning point. For years I had labeled myself a failure. But food noise wasn’t about failing at all. It was about how the brain works. Every time I ate in response to boredom, stress, or fatigue, my brain logged it as a “reward.” The next time I felt the same cue, the noise grew louder. The loop repeated itself until it became automatic. Understanding this gave me something I’d been missing: compassion for myself. I wasn’t broken. I was human. And if my brain could be trained into these loops, maybe it could be retrained out of them too. How I Began to Quiet the Noise I didn’t wake up one morning free of food chatter. It quieted slowly, through small practices that I repeated again and again. Naming it When the thoughts started, I said to myself, “That’s food noise, not hunger.” It may sound simple, but naming it gave me distance. It reminded me I wasn’t my thoughts. Pausing before reacting At first, I felt powerless against the urges. But I began experimenting with a short pause. Just two minutes. During that pause, I’d sip water, stretch, or step outside. Sometimes the craving was still there afterward, but often it had already passed. That pause gave me back a sense of choice. Refuting the chatter The hardest part wasn’t the food itself. It was the voice in my head. It would say, “You’ve already ruined the day; you may as well keep going.” Or, “One more won’t matter.” I believed it every time, and each binge ended with guilt and shame. I finally found help with a cognitive behavioral tool I’d never heard of before: the refutation. A refutation is simply answering back to the thought—calmly, clearly, without judgment. It’s like shining a light on a lie. The first time I tried it, I wrote my food noise down on paper: “You’ve ruined today, so you may as well give up.” Then I wrote my response underneath: “One moment doesn’t ruin a whole day. If I stop now, I’ll feel better tonight. If I keep going, I’ll feel worse.” It felt strange at first, almost like arguing with myself. But slowly, those written words became a voice I could access in real time. Now, when the chatter starts, I can hear both sides: the urge and the refutation. And with practice, the refutation has grown stronger. Some of the ones I use often are: Food noise says: “One bite won’t hurt.” Refutation: “One bite keeps the loop alive. Every time I resist, I weaken it.” Food noise says: “You can just start again tomorrow.” Refutation: “If I wait until tomorrow, I make waiting a habit. The best time to start is now.” Food noise says: “You’ve earned this.” Refutation: “I’ve earned peace of mind, not more noise.” At first, I had to write them down. Over time, they became automatic. Self-kindness For years, slipping up meant spiraling into guilt and shame. Now, when I give in, I remind myself, “This is hard, and I’m learning.” That kindness keeps me moving forward instead of sinking deeper. Each of these practices was like a mental rep in the gym. The more I repeated them, the stronger I became. What Quiet Feels Like The first time I realized I had gone an entire morning without obsessing about food, I almost cried. The silence in my head felt like a gift. Quiet doesn’t mean I never think about food. It means food has stopped being the background soundtrack of my life. I can work without constant distraction. I can sit with my family without guilt. I can enjoy a meal without a running commentary in my mind. Most importantly, I’ve started to trust myself again. The Bigger Lesson What I learned from food noise applies far beyond eating. Our minds are noisy places, full of chatter about success, relationships, fears, and the future. If we treat every thought as urgent and true, we end up exhausted. But if we learn to pause, to name the chatter, and to choose differently, we create space for peace. The greatest gift wasn’t just a quieter relationship with food. It was discovering that not every thought in my head deserves a reaction. That lesson has changed more than my eating. It has changed how I live. See more posts About Johanna Handley Johanna Handley is an overeating recovery coach and Head of Coaching at The Last Food Fight. She co-created Food Noise Shield, a free tool that helps people quiet cravings and rebuild self-trust. Web | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. --- ## 5 Surefire Signs You Grew Up with an Emotionally Immature Parent URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/5-surefire-signs-you-grew-up-with-an-emotionally-immature-parent/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-04 “There’s no such thing as a ‘bad kid’—just angry, hurt, tired, scared, confused, impulsive ones expressing their feelings and needs the only way they know how. We owe it to every single one of them to always remember that.” ~Dr. Jessica Stephens  All children look up to their parents from the moment they enter this world. They have this beautiful, pure, unconditional love pouring out of them. Parents are on a pedestal. They are the ones who know what’s best! They are the grownups showing us how to do life! We don’t think for one moment that they could be … “There’s no such thing as a ‘bad kid’—just angry, hurt, tired, scared, confused, impulsive ones expressing their feelings and needs the only way they know how. We owe it to every single one of them to always remember that.” ~Dr. Jessica Stephens  All children look up to their parents from the moment they enter this world. They have this beautiful, pure, unconditional love pouring out of them. Parents are on a pedestal. They are the ones who know what’s best! They are the grownups showing us how to do life! We don’t think for one moment that they could be showing us the wrong way. I, like many others, adored both my mum and dad. I could not see their flaws, their pains, or their trauma. I just loved them and wanted to spend time with them. If they shouted at me and told me I was wrong, I trusted that they were right, no question. When I had non-existent self-esteem, anxiety, and suicidal ideation because I believed I was not good enough, I blamed that 100% on myself. I had unconsciously recorded all those moments when their behavior had made me feel not good enough as my own fault for being ‘bad,’ not considering they could have had something going on themselves. When I struggled in romantic relationships, always chasing unavailable men, I held myself responsible and never for one minute thought that this pattern of behavior stemmed from my relationship with my parents. I believed what they had told me in different ways—that I was the problem! The reason I struggled in relationships, I later discovered, was that my parents were not actually okay when they were parenting me because of their own traumas and were emotionally immature. Here are five signs you had emotionally immature parents and how may it impact you. 1. Their feelings and needs were more important than yours. Emotionally immature parents can be incredibly self-absorbed and distracted by their own feelings and emotions, and they want their child, you, to regulate them. For example, when my mum was upset, I would be affectionate toward her and soothe her. As I got older, she would be angry with me if I was not there to soothe her when she needed it, saying I was selfish and she had no one. I believed her. I was off playing with my friends and being a child, but this was not allowed if it meant I couldn’t meet her needs and calm her emotions. As a result, I learned it was not safe to choose my needs over hers, as she would withdraw her love from me, which felt so scary. My heart would race, and I would feel terror take over my body. As an adult, this meant I believed I was responsible for other people’s emotions, and if they were angry or upset, it was my fault. So I would always walk around on eggshells just in case someone might attack me for upsetting them. Because I believed everyone’s pain was my fault, I attracted more relationships like the one with my mum. These relationships made me feel powerless. 2. Expressing your feelings or needs was not safe. When you expressed a feeling and it was met with a negative reaction from your parent, it created a world of panic inside your body. For example, sharing how you were struggling could have been met with a comment about how their lives were so much worse and you should stop being so dramatic. Expressing a need, like asking for a ride somewhere, could have launched an attack about how selfish you were—and didn’t you realize how hard your parents were working! So what happened? You stopped expressing your feelings and needs and buried them deep. (For me, I topped them with ice cream and sugar for comfort.) As an adult, you may now be so cut off from your own emotions and needs that you act as if you don’t have any. 3. They did not take responsibility for their actions. They’d say or do something that really hurt you, but they wouldn’t acknowledge it, nor apologize. In fact, they may have just carried on as normal. Your relationship with them was not repaired as a result. You may have tried to resolve the situation, but you were the only one trying, and you may even have found yourself blamed for something you didn’t even do. The whole situation would leave you feeling crazy and like you didn’t know what’s true. You may even have started thinking it was your own fault. As an adult, you might repeat this dynamic in other relationships, feeling powerless to repair and resolve issues that arise. This leads to resentment and staying in unhappy relationships because you don’t know it can be any other way. 4. They have no idea how to regulate their emotions. They walked around triggered by their emotions all day. They had no idea how to bring themselves back into balance. They’d come home exhausted from work, but rather than doing something to discharge from the day, they’d get stuck in their chores and then take out their emotions on others due to resentment over being so tired. They also might have had no idea what they were feeling. Maybe they were constantly angry because they lacked the self-awareness to recognize they were really feeling sad or anxious or overwhelmed. And because they didn’t know what they were feeling, they had no idea what they needed to do to feel better. 5. You were forced to grow up before your time. It wasn’t okay for you to be a child. They found it way too stressful, so you were encouraged to be a little adult. Maybe even a little adult that parented them. It was also not safe for you to be a child. You couldn’t be loud or silly, as they could have lost their temper, so you walked around on high alert waiting for this. You may have learned to be the calm one because your parents weren’t. I found myself getting involved in their very grown-up arguments as a child just to try and keep the peace in the house. This is not the role of a child. If you had the same experience, you may find yourself attracting similarly codependent relationships as an adult. — If this childhood sounds like yours, you are not alone. There are many of us. There is an inner child within you that missed out on so much love, nurturing, encouragement, and balance, which could be the reason you are struggling now as an adult. It is not because you are not good enough or because you are to blame for everything. It is because you were raised by emotionally immature parents. Effectively, you were raised by children in adult bodies. You could still be dealing with these patterns as an adult with your parents, as they could be children in even older bodies now! Learning how to be emotionally mature yourself so you don’t repeat the patterns with your own children is a wonderful gift to be able to give them, but also it means you can have healthy relationships and find peace within. Healing and reparenting your inner child means you will be able to express your emotions and have boundaries so others don’t think it is okay to do the same to you. I used to feel powerless when people treated me like this, not just with my parents but in other relationships too. I would try to be whatever they wanted me to be, but they would still react in the same ways no matter what I did. Stepping back from them and focusing on healing my inner child, understanding her feelings and needs, and holding space for her has changed my life. I was able to become the parent I always longed for. I understand now that my parents were emotionally immature, as they were raised by emotionally immature parents too. They were mature with money and jobs, but with emotions, they were out of their depth because no one showed them how to manage them, and unfortunately, they never learned. But we can be the generation that breaks this pattern by being the emotionally mature parent we needed. We can be the example of healthy relationship dynamics that we never had. **This post was originally published in 2022. See more posts About Manpreet Johal Bernie Manpreet is the creator of the podcast Heart’s Happiness, where she talks about intergenerational trauma, and is also a coach who helps people make peace with their past and rewrite their story by learning how to love themselves and their inner child. Check out her FREE MASTERCLASS, Freedom from Anxiety, where she shares her proprietary technique to help with anxiety. Follow her on Instagram here. Web | Facebook | YouTube | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. --- ## Work Is Not Family: A Lesson I Never Wanted but Need to Share URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/work-is-not-family-a-lesson-i-never-wanted-but-need-to-share/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-04 “The paradox of trauma is that it has both the power to destroy and the power to transform and resurrect.” ~Peter Levine “Work Is Not Family: A Lesson I Never Wanted But Need To Share” is a trauma-informed memoir by a corporate professional who survives years of abusive behavior from a male boss and a dismissive CEO. The narrative links past sexual trauma with ongoing workplace abuse, showing how love-bombing, manipulation, and a constant fight-or-flight state erode safety. It reframes work as a contract, not a family, and critiques HR and organizational cultures that prioritize risk management over employee well-being. Through trauma education, the author outlines practical healing steps—monitoring the nervous system, cultivating self-compassion, setting boundaries, and rebuilding trust. The piece also examines systemic issues like institutional betrayal and the evolving nature of workplace loyalty. Ultimately, it offers a hopeful path: healing is possible, and healthier boundaries can transform work into a safer, more human experience. GET A COPY OF THE COMPLETE MEMOIR (eBook) Relevant Keywords trauma at work, workplace abuse, healing from trauma, trauma-informed coaching, work is not family, abusive boss, sexual trauma at work, institutional betrayal, corporate HR and employee rights, nervous system regulation, neuroception, fight-or-flight, Long-tail keywords, trauma in the workplace after sexual assault, healing strategies for workplace trauma, boundaries at work for healing, HR policies and employee protection, why work is not family: exploring corporate loyalty, rebuilding safety after workplace abuse Hashtags #WorkIsNotFamily #WorkplaceTrauma #TraumaInformed #HealingFromTrauma #WorkplaceAbuse #EmployeeRights #InstitutionalBetrayal #Boundaries #MentalHealthAtWork #NervousSystem #SelfCompassion #CareerHealing #CorporateCulture #HRInsights #TraumaRecovery See more posts About Katie Hadiaris Katie Hadiaris is the founder of Work Is Not Family, a movement that challenges workplace norms and helps professionals restore self-trust, rebuild confidence, and step into their power so they can protect their time, energy, and peace—no matter where they work. An ICF-certified somatic trauma-informed coach with a background in HR and corporate leadership, Katie combines personal insight with professional expertise to share practical tools for nervous system regulation and self-protection. Learn more at workisnotfamily.com or join her free Facebook group. Web | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here For Complete EBOOK.  leave a comment on the site. --- ## What Happened When I Stopped Expecting Perfection From Myself URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/what-happened-when-i-stopped-expecting-perfection-from-myself/ Type: post Modified: 2025-12-02 “There is no amount of self-improvement that can make up for a lack of self-acceptance.” ~Robert Holden. Letting Go of Perfection: A Mother’s Journey to Self-Acceptance Six years ago, I forgot it was picture day at my daughter’s school. She left the house in a sweatshirt with a faint, unidentifiable stain and hair still bent from yesterday’s ponytail. The photographer probably spent less than ten seconds on her photo, but I spent hours replaying the morning in my head, imagining her years later looking at that picture and believing her mother had not tried hard enough. It’s strange how small moments can lodge themselves in memory. Even now, when … (image) “There is no amount of self-improvement that can make up for a lack of self-acceptance.” ~Robert Holden Six years ago, I forgot it was picture day at my daughter’s school. She left the house in a sweatshirt with a faint, unidentifiable stain and hair still bent from yesterday’s ponytail. The photographer probably spent less than ten seconds on her photo, but I spent hours replaying the morning in my head, imagining her years later looking at that picture and believing her mother had not tried hard enough. It’s strange how small moments can lodge themselves in memory. Even now, when life is smooth, that picture sometimes drifts back. The difference is that I no longer treat it as proof that I am careless or unloving. I see it as a reminder that no one gets it all right, no matter how hard they try. I tend to hold on to my “failures” long after everyone else has let them go. My daughter has never mentioned that photo, and one day, if she becomes a mother, she might discover that small imperfections are not proof of neglect. They can be a kind of grace. For most of my life, I thought being a good person meant being relentlessly self-critical. I stayed up too late worrying over things no one else noticed, like an unanswered text or a dusty shelf before company arrived. Sometimes I replayed conversations until I found the exact moment I could have been warmer or wiser. The list was endless, and my self-worth seemed to hinge on how perfectly I performed in every role. Somewhere along the way, I started expecting myself to already know how to do everything right. But this is the first time I have lived this exact day, with this exact set of challenges and choices. It is the first time parenting a child this age. The first time navigating friendships in this season. The first time balancing today’s responsibilities with today’s emotions. The shift came on a day when nothing seemed to go my way. I missed an appointment I had no excuse for missing, realized too late that I had forgotten to order my friend’s birthday gift, and then managed to burn dinner. None of it was catastrophic, but the weight of these small failures began to gather, as they always did, into a heaviness in my chest. I could feel myself leaning toward the familiar spiral of self-reproach when I happened to glance across the room and see my daughter. And in that instant, a thought surfaced: What if I spoke to myself the way I would speak to her if she had made these same mistakes? I knew exactly what I would say. I would remind her that being human means sometimes getting it wrong. I would tell her that one day’s mistakes do not erase years of love. I would make sure she knew she was still good, still worthy, and still enough. So I tried saying it to myself, out loud. “We all make mistakes.” The words felt clumsy, almost unnatural, like I was finally trying to speak the language I had only just begun to learn. But something inside softened just enough for me to take a breath and let the day end without carrying all its weight into tomorrow. Self-compassion has not made me careless. It has made me steadier. When I stop spending my energy on shame, Keywords: self-acceptance, self-compassion, perfectionism, letting go of perfection, self-criticism, motherhood, mindful parenting, grace in parenting, self-talk, how to be kinder to yourself, parenting mistakes, mother-daughter, relationship, daily self-care, emotional resilience mental wellness for moms, inner voice, personal growth, women’s memoir, childhood memory, nonjudgmental parenting Hashtags; #SelfAcceptance #SelfCompassion #StopPerfectionism #Motherhood #MindfulParenting #Grace #YouAreEnough #ParentingTips #MentalWellness #PersonalGrowth #SelfLove #SelfCare #MomLife #GracefulLiving #RealMotherhood --- ## The 2026 Tiny Buddha Calendar Is Ready for Holiday Gifting! URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-2026-tiny-buddha-calendar-is-ready-for-holiday-gifting/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) Hi friend! As we head into the holiday season, I know many of us are starting to think about gifts for the people we love (and maybe a few things for ourselves as well). With that in mind, I wanted to remind you that the 2026 Tiny Buddha Day-to-Day Calendar is now available. It’s one of my favorite projects every year because I include the kind of daily reminders that I personally find validating, comforting, and encouraging—some from me, some from site contributors, and some from authors I enjoy. And as the number-one bestselling calendar in Mind-Body-Spirit for the past … (image) Hi friend! As we head into the holiday season, I know many of us are starting to think about gifts for the people we love (and maybe a few things for ourselves as well). With that in mind, I wanted to remind you that the 2026 Tiny Buddha Day-to-Day Calendar is now available. It’s one of my favorite projects every year because I include the kind of daily reminders that I personally find validating, comforting, and encouraging—some from me, some from site contributors, and some from authors I enjoy. And as the number-one bestselling calendar in Mind-Body-Spirit for the past two years, I know it’s become an annual staple for lots of readers. Featuring vibrant tear-off pages, the calendar is printed on FSC certified paper with soy-based ink and covers topics like happiness, love, relationships, change, meaning, mindfulness, self-care, letting go, and more. Here are a few recent reviews from the 2026 edition: “I got this as a gift last year and fell in love with all the advice from many different sources! So I ordered one for this year, and I just received my new one and it is the same! If you want gentle daily messages that not only inspire but also make you think, this is it!” “I buy this calendar every year, and I love it!!! I look forward to the daily inspiration. Sometimes you just need a little kick in the pants to get your mind right, and this calendar does that for me. Thank you!” “I love, love, the daily quotes, and this will be my third year of purchase. I would really miss them if I didn’t have them each day to read a different quote. They brighten my day.” If you’d like to bring a little Tiny Buddha wisdom into your home and your day—or give someone you love the gift of comfort and insight—you can grab a calendar (or two!) here. Thank you, as always, for being here and for supporting my work. See more posts (image) About Lori Deschene Lori Deschene is the founder of Tiny Buddha. She started the site after struggling with depression, bulimia, c-PTSD, and toxic shame so she could recycle her former pain into something useful and inspire others to do the same. You can find her books, including Tiny Buddha’s Gratitude Journal and Tiny Buddha’s Worry Journal, here and learn more about her eCourse, Recreate Your Life Story, if you’re ready to transform your life and become the person you want to be. Web | Twitter | Facebook | More Posts Get in the conversation! Click here to leave a comment on the site. --- ## What I See Clearly Now That I Can’t See Clearly URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/what-i-see-clearly-now-that-i-cant-see-clearly/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen… they must be felt with the heart.” ~Helen Keller I didn’t want to admit it—not to myself, not to anyone. But I am slowly going blind. That truth is difficult to write, harder still to live. I’m seventy years old. I’ve survived war zones, illness, caregiving, and creative risks. I’ve worked as a documentary filmmaker, teacher, and mentor. But this—this quiet, gradual vanishing of sight—feels like the loneliest struggle of all. I have moderate to advanced macular degeneration in both eyes. My right eye is nearly gone, and my … (image) “The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen… they must be felt with the heart.” ~Helen Keller I didn’t want to admit it—not to myself, not to anyone. But I am slowly going blind. That truth is difficult to write, harder still to live. I’m seventy years old. I’ve survived war zones, illness, caregiving, and creative risks. I’ve worked as a documentary filmmaker, teacher, and mentor. But this—this quiet, gradual vanishing of sight—feels like the loneliest struggle of all. I have moderate to advanced macular degeneration in both eyes. My right eye is nearly gone, and my left is fading. Every two weeks, I receive injections to try to preserve what vision remains. It’s a routine I now live with—and one I dread. Living in a Vision-Centric World We live in a world that privileges sight above all other senses. From billboards to smartphones, from flashy design to social cues, vision is the dominant sense in American culture. If you can’t see clearly, you fall behind. You’re overlooked. The world stops making space for you. Is one sense truly more valuable than another? Philosophically, no. But socially, yes. In this culture, blindness is feared, pitied, or ignored—not understood. And so are most disabilities. Accessibility is often an afterthought. Accommodation, a burden. To live in a disabled body in this world is to be reminded—again and again—that your needs are inconvenient. I think of people in other countries—millions without access to care or even diagnosis. I thank the deities, ancestors, and forces of compassion that I don’t have something worse. And I remind myself: as painful as this is, I am lucky. But it is still bleak and painful to coexist with the physical world when it no longer sees you clearly—and when you can no longer see it. How a Filmmaker Faces Blindness As my sight fades, one question haunts me: How can I be a filmmaker, writer, and teacher without the eyes I once depended on? I often think of Beethoven. He lost his hearing gradually, as I’m losing my sight. A composer who could no longer hear—but still created. Still transmitted music. Still found beauty in silence. I understand his despair—and his devotion. No, I’m not Beethoven. But I am someone whose life has been shaped by visual storytelling. And now I must learn to shape it by feel, by memory, by trust. I rely on accessibility tools. I listen to every word I write. I use audio cues, screen readers, and my own internal voice. I still write in flow when I can—but more slowly, word by word. I revise by sound. I rebuild by sense. I write proprioceptively—feeling the shape of a sentence in my fingers and breath before it lands on the screen. It’s not efficient. But it’s alive. And in some ways, it’s more honest than before. Try ordering groceries with low vision. Tiny gray text on a white background. Menus with no labels. Buttons you can’t find. After ten minutes, I give up—not just on the website, but on dinner, on the day. This is what disabil --- ## How to Calm Anxiety That’s Rooted in Childhood Wounds URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/how-to-calm-anxiety-thats-rooted-in-childhood-wounds/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “Anxiety is a response to a nervous system that learned early on it had to protect itself.” ~Dr. Hilary Jacobs Hendel Anxiety shaped much of my life—how I showed up, how I held myself back, and how I connected with others. For years, I didn’t even know what it was. I just knew the pounding heart, the tight chest, the trembling hands. I knew the shame that followed every “failure,” big or small, and the fear I would never be enough. For a long time, I thought I was the problem. But anxiety isn’t a moral failing. It’s a part … (image) “Anxiety is a response to a nervous system that learned early on it had to protect itself.” ~Dr. Hilary Jacobs Hendel Anxiety shaped much of my life—how I showed up, how I held myself back, and how I connected with others. For years, I didn’t even know what it was. I just knew the pounding heart, the tight chest, the trembling hands. I knew the shame that followed every “failure,” big or small, and the fear I would never be enough. For a long time, I thought I was the problem. But anxiety isn’t a moral failing. It’s a part of me that learned to survive in environments where my emotional needs weren’t met, where fear and shame felt louder than safety. Where It Started The roots of my anxiety began in childhood. I was in first grade when I brought home my school report card and saw that I ranked seventh in my class. At that age, I didn’t know if that was good or bad. I was just excited to tell my dad. When he came to pick me up, I smiled and shared the news innocently. Instead of a hug or encouragement, his eyes glared at me. His sharp, aggressive tone cut through me as he shouted, “It’s bad!” Looking back, I can see his reaction came from fear—that my performance might limit my future and that shaming me would push me to improve. But as a child, I couldn’t see that. I felt shocked and humiliated. My small body trembled, and my younger brain concluded: “I’m only worthy of love if I perform better.” The next semester, I ranked third. My dad bragged about it to everyone, and I felt brief relief. But the fear returned quickly: “What if I can’t keep this up?” That was the beginning of a belief that no matter how much I achieved, I was never “enough.” This pattern followed me for decades, surfacing in unexpected places. As an adult, I would freeze with anxiety at gas stations, trembling as I pushed my motorbike forward even when no one was rushing me. Eventually, I connected it to another childhood memory: my dad shouting at me to move faster in line at a gas station, his glare and sharp tone burning into me again. When processing this as an adult, I realized he had a good intention—to move things along for the other people waiting. But before I began my healing process, my nervous system was wired to react to the present as if I were reliving the past. Even years later, the anxiety lived on in my body, and I didn’t know how to process it. The Breaking Point I carried this unprocessed anxiety into adulthood. When I was five weeks pregnant, my partner was in a tragic accident that left him in a coma for two weeks before he passed away. Suddenly, I was alone, grieving, and without money to survive. I didn’t have the privilege of avoidance anymore. Grief, financial instability, and the responsibility of carrying a child forced me to face emotions I had buried for years. This was when I learned the practices that helped me stop spiraling and regain my composure. 10 Tips That Help Me Prevent and Manage Anxiety Important note: These --- ## When You’re Tired of Fixing Yourself: How to Stop Treating Healing Like a Full-Time Job URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/when-youre-tired-of-fixing-yourself-how-to-stop-treating-healing-like-a-full-time-job/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “True self-love is not about becoming someone better; it’s about softening into the truth of who you already are.” ~Yung Pueblo One morning, I sat at my kitchen table with my journal open, a cup of green tea steaming beside me, and a stack of self-help books spread out like an emergency toolkit. The sunlight was spilling across the counter, but I didn’t notice. My eyes kept darting between the dog-eared pages of a book called Becoming Your Best Self and the neatly written to-do list in my journal. Meditation. Gratitude journaling. Affirmations. Ten thousand steps. Hydration tracker. “Inner child … (image) “True self-love is not about becoming someone better; it’s about softening into the truth of who you already are.” ~Yung Pueblo One morning, I sat at my kitchen table with my journal open, a cup of green tea steaming beside me, and a stack of self-help books spread out like an emergency toolkit. The sunlight was spilling across the counter, but I didn’t notice. My eyes kept darting between the dog-eared pages of a book called Becoming Your Best Self and the neatly written to-do list in my journal. Meditation. Gratitude journaling. Affirmations. Ten thousand steps. Hydration tracker. “Inner child work” … still unchecked. It was only 9:00 a.m., and I’d already meditated, journaled, listened to a personal development podcast, and planned my “healing workout” for later. By all accounts, I was doing everything right. But instead of feeling inspired or light, I felt… tired. Bone-deep tired. When Self-Improvement Becomes Self-Criticism I didn’t realize it at the time, but I had turned personal growth into a job I could never leave. Every podcast was a strategy meeting. Every book was an employee manual for a better me. Every quiet moment became a chance to find another flaw to address. And if I missed something, a day without journaling, a skipped meditation, a workout cut short, I felt like I had failed. Not failed at the task itself but failed as a person. I told myself this was dedication. That it was healthy to be committed to becoming the best version of myself. But underneath, there was a quieter truth I didn’t want to admit: I wasn’t growing from a place of self-love. I was hustling for my own worth. Somewhere along the way, “self-improvement” had stopped being about building a life I loved and had become about fixing a person I didn’t. Self-Growth Burnout Is Real We talk about burnout from work, parenting, and caregiving, but we don’t often talk about self-growth burnout. The kind that comes when you’ve been “working on yourself” for so long it becomes another obligation. It’s subtle, but you can feel it. It’s the heaviness you carry into your meditation practice, the quiet resentment when someone tells you about a “life-changing” book you have to read, the way even rest feels like you’re falling behind in your own healing. The worst part? It’s wrapped in such positive language that it’s hard to admit you’re tired of it. When you say you’re exhausted, people tell you to “take a self-care day,” which often just becomes another checkbox. When you say you’re feeling stuck, they hand you another podcast, another journal prompt, another morning routine to try. It’s exhausting to realize that even your downtime is part of a performance review you’re constantly giving yourself. The Moment I Stepped --- ## Be Like a Paddle Ball: How to Bounce Back to Yourself URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/be-like-a-paddle-ball-how-to-bounce-back-to-yourself/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “Come back to yourself. Return to the voice of your body. Trust that much.” ~Geneen Roth I may be showing my age, but here goes… It has come to my attention that I’m like a paddle ball. To anyone born in the 21st century: for context, before handheld devices ruled the world, kids entertained themselves with simple analog toys—such as the paddle ball. Picture a small flat paddle (like a small ping-pong paddle) with a rubber ball attached to the center by an elastic string. The goal was to hit the ball with the paddle, watch it fly out and … (image) “Come back to yourself. Return to the voice of your body. Trust that much.” ~Geneen Roth I may be showing my age, but here goes… It has come to my attention that I’m like a paddle ball. To anyone born in the 21st century: for context, before handheld devices ruled the world, kids entertained themselves with simple analog toys—such as the paddle ball. Picture a small flat paddle (like a small ping-pong paddle) with a rubber ball attached to the center by an elastic string. The goal was to hit the ball with the paddle, watch it fly out and then back, and keep this going for as long as possible, until the ball returns wildly and goes rogue, missing the paddle altogether. Recently, while I was flossing my teeth, much to my surprise, my dental crown popped off in my mouth. (I’ll connect these things together; stay with me.) I was fortunate enough that my dentist was able to get me in to fix it the next day, but this unexpected mishap added to an already incredibly hectic month. Other notable events this month included a vacation with a six-hour time change (I find that the older I get, the more challenging it becomes to travel across time zones), a broken (on the second day of vacation) phone that the day after returning home required an entire day of driving back and forth all over town to resolve, my son’s new used car (that we just purchased a month prior) broke down and required towing, and now my errant crown, just to name a few. Like I said, it’s been quite a month. I arrived at the dentist’s office half an hour early (because I had other unavoidable obligations that morning as well) and decided to use this time for my daily meditation. I could feel that the gentle tug to slow down had turned into a more forceful pull. Side note: I’ll admit that even though I have a daily meditation practice, I go through periods where I successfully carve time out earlier in the day for longer, more intentional practices, and other times when I barely squeeze in a quickie at the last minute of the day. If it’s not obvious, this was a last-minute-meditation kind of month. Once in the office, while reclining in the long black chair waiting for the dentist, I resisted the urge to distract myself with my phone and instead did some box breathing to give myself space to slow down. And again, while waiting for the anesthetic to take effect, I decided to just be with myself. There was no rushing this. I had nothing else to do, nowhere else to go. It was a welcomed pause. With my mouth pried open, I reflected on all the life stuff I’ve been trying to keep up with and wondered if I would ever find balance. Why don’t I come back to myself more often? Why don’t I just stay put, centered all the time? Well, as the saying goes, everything in moderation, right? If all I did was sit and meditate or pause indefinitely, I wouldn’t be dealing with these stressors, but I also wouldn’t be able to fulfill my purpose, help others, connect with family, or enjoy all the incredible experiences life has to offer. Just “being” feels nice, but “doing” also has its advantages and is required for me to be the person I want to be. --- ## 3 Surprising Causes of Burnout That Most People Miss URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/3-surprising-causes-of-burnout-that-most-people-miss/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.” ~Lucille Ball The first time I experienced burnout, I was twenty-six. I was at the height of my career in London, doing it all, and yet I somehow found myself back at my parents’ house, sobbing in my mom’s car, after signing myself off from work, not having a clue how I landed there. Burnout isn’t just about being tired from overexertion. It’s when we reach physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion after pushing ourselves past our capacity for too long. When we finally stop, often against our will, all the confusing … (image) “Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.” ~Lucille Ball The first time I experienced burnout, I was twenty-six. I was at the height of my career in London, doing it all, and yet I somehow found myself back at my parents’ house, sobbing in my mom’s car, after signing myself off from work, not having a clue how I landed there. Burnout isn’t just about being tired from overexertion. It’s when we reach physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion after pushing ourselves past our capacity for too long. When we finally stop, often against our will, all the confusing symptoms surface. We feel overwhelmed, out of control, like we’re going mad. That was me at twenty-six, right when I thought I should have been thriving. To give you some background, I was managing several boutique fitness studios in London, working under a highly demanding boss whose mood could swing and affect the whole office. I wasn’t much of a party girl, but I was still burning the candle at both ends, socializing with friends on the weekend and running around meeting demands during the week. The burnout crept in slowly, starting with crying over the smallest things, gaining weight despite all the exercise I was doing, never being able to switch my mind off, and feeling constantly wired and overwhelmed with emotions I didn’t understand. Burnout shows up differently for everyone, and I believe many of us live with a chronic, low-level version we don’t even notice until our well-being starts to fall apart. At the time, I thought burnout was just about long hours and stress. But over the years, I realized there were deeper, less obvious reasons behind mine. So, let’s get into the three not-so-obvious causes of burnout that most people miss. The Hidden Pressure to Prove Your Worth One of the biggest things I’ve learned about myself in the last ten years is that I’ve always had a need to prove myself. I’ve never quite felt good enough, and it’s always affected my confidence. I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. We all struggle with our confidence and worth, wanting to prove ourselves—to the people we work for, to our parents, to our partners, and to the world. However, I wasn’t conscious of this when I was younger. I knew I had a strong drive within me to work hard and meet other people’s demands, but I didn’t think it had anything to do with needing to prove myself. I’ve come to see that many of us have a core wound around self-worth, even the most confident among us, and we all need to work on accepting, embracing, and loving ourselves exactly as we are. But when we’re not conscious of our inner drivers, we can blindly rush into life, not understanding what’s really motivating our actions. For me, my lack of confidence played out in my need to please my boss, to the point where I was no longer conscious of my needs or desires. Her disapproval terrified me. I dreaded missing her calls or not replying to her emails fast enough. I anticipated her demands constantly, beating myself up if I misjudged a situ --- ## Why Narcissistic Abuse Doesn’t Define You and How I Found the Love I Deserve URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/why-narcissistic-abuse-doesnt-define-you-and-how-i-found-the-love-i-deserve/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “When it hurts to move on, just remember the pain you felt hanging on.” ~Unknown There was a time when I thought my heart would never heal. I’d been lied to, betrayed, and broken by a man I thought I loved. A man who turned out to be nothing more than a beautifully packaged nightmare. If you’ve ever been hurt by a narcissist, you know that the pain cuts deeper than most people can imagine. You know the way it seeps into your bones, the way it makes you question your worth and replay every moment, wondering if you could … (image) “When it hurts to move on, just remember the pain you felt hanging on.” ~Unknown There was a time when I thought my heart would never heal. I’d been lied to, betrayed, and broken by a man I thought I loved. A man who turned out to be nothing more than a beautifully packaged nightmare. If you’ve ever been hurt by a narcissist, you know that the pain cuts deeper than most people can imagine. You know the way it seeps into your bones, the way it makes you question your worth and replay every moment, wondering if you could have stopped it. I’ll never forget that night in Paris when I learned what love is not. The Champs-Élysées was alive with golden lights strung high in the air. Shoppers moved slowly, bags swinging in their hands, laughter spilling out of nearby cafés. The smell of roasted chestnuts drifted through the crisp night. And in the middle of that beauty, my world shattered with one heavy punch to the stomach I did not deserve. It happened on the balcony of a famous Paris hotel. I had overheard a phone call. His voice casual, almost bored. “I’ll be home in a few days.” Home. To. His. Wife. My blood ran cold. The words clung to my skin like ice. Betrayal swelled in my chest, my breath sharp and ragged. I demanded answers. My voice cracked, trembling between anger and disbelief. The first slap was so fast I barely registered it. Then another. Then the kick. A sharp, merciless blow to my stomach that folded me in two and dropped me to the floor. My lungs emptied. I gasped, but no air came. I needed to scream. I wanted to claw, to fight, to make him hurt. But some part of me knew that to stay alive, I had to stay still. My body shook in silence, hot tears sliding down my cheeks, my ears ringing as his voice faded into a blur of meaningless words. The carpet felt rough beneath my palms as I steadied myself. My ribs ached with each shallow breath. When his rage finally burned out, I slipped away and stepped onto the balcony. The night air stung my face. Through the blur of tears, I saw the Eiffel Tower shimmering in the distance, each light flashing like a cruel reminder of where I was—the city I had dreamed of visiting. In love. I gripped the railing, fighting the urge to collapse again. I wanted to disappear. I wanted to wash every trace of his hands from my skin. I wanted to go home, crawl into my bed, and erase Paris from my memory. It took months to unravel what had happened that night. Months to understand why I had let a narcissist treat me like that. I wasn’t naive. I wasn’t unloved. I came from a loving family. I cared for people. So why did I believe I deserved this? Somewhere deep inside, I had confused love with proving my worth. I believed that if I could just give enough, forgive enough, understand enough, I could earn love that stayed. That belief had been quietly living in me for years—from the little girl who learned to keep the peace by being “good” to the woman who equated over-giving with strength. I didn’t think I deserved --- ## The Prowler in My Mind: Learning to Live with Depression URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-prowler-in-my-mind-learning-to-live-with-depression/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” ~Leonard Cohen When depression comes, I feel it like a prowler gliding through my body. My chest tightens, my head fills with dark whispers, and even the day feels like night. The prowler has no face, no clear shape, but its presence is heavy. Sometimes it circles in silence within me. Other times it presses in until I don’t know how to respond. In those moments, I feel caught between two choices: do I lie still, hoping it passes by, or do I rise and face it? Often, … (image) “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” ~Leonard Cohen When depression comes, I feel it like a prowler gliding through my body. My chest tightens, my head fills with dark whispers, and even the day feels like night. The prowler has no face, no clear shape, but its presence is heavy. Sometimes it circles in silence within me. Other times it presses in until I don’t know how to respond. In those moments, I feel caught between two choices: do I lie still, hoping it passes by, or do I rise and face it? Often, I choose lying down—not out of paralysis but patience. Sometimes the only way to coexist with the shadow is to rest, to surrender for a while, to let sleep take me. And sometimes, when I wake, I feel a little lighter. Not free of the prowler but reminded that it is possible to live alongside it. Carl Jung once wrote, “Everyone carries a shadow, and the less it is embodied in our conscious life, the blacker and denser it is.” I know this to be true. The more I try to push my depression away, the heavier it becomes. But when I bring awareness—even reluctant awareness—its power weakens. The Shadow as Teacher The shadow is not only my enemy. It also serves as a teacher. Depression forces me to face the parts of myself I would rather outrun: shame, grief, fear, anger, discontent. But it also carries hidden truths. Jung suggested that the shadow holds not just what we reject but also forgotten strengths and possibilities. For me, the shadow’s message is humility. It reminds me I am not in control, that I can’t polish myself into perfection. It pushes me to listen more deeply—to the pain I carry and the struggles I see in others. It insists that healing doesn’t come from pretending the darkness isn’t there. It comes from being willing to see it. Buddhism and the Prowler Buddhism gives me another way to see this. The Buddha taught that suffering doesn’t just come from clinging to what we crave; it also comes from turning away from what we don’t want to face. That turning away is called aversion. When the prowler moves through me, my instinct is always to turn away. I want to push it out, distract myself, pretend it isn’t there. But each time I run from it, the shadow grows stronger. In meditation, I practice staying. I sit and breathe, whispering silently, “May I be free from fear. May I be at peace.” I’ll be honest, sometimes these words feel empty or even silly. They don’t always lift me. But saying them creates a pause—a moment of willingness to stay instead of running. The prowler doesn’t vanish, but it softens a little under the light of compassion. Creativity and the Shadow I’ve also discovered that my documentary work—filmmaking, writing, teaching—is only authentic when I acknowledge the shadow. My camera becomes a mirror. When I pretend everything is light, the images feel flat. But when I allow the complexity of shadow into my seeing, the work has depth. When I sit with people to listen to their stories, I often sense their shadows too—grief unspoken, fear beneath the surface, contradictions in how they see themselves. I can recognize those shadows because I have lived with mine. Facing my own shadow allow --- ## The Unexpected Therapy I Found on My Phone URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-unexpected-therapy-i-found-on-my-phone/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-30 (image) “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” ~Dr. Seuss The notification pops up on my phone: “Jason, we made a new memory reel for you.” I pause whatever I’m doing, probably something stressful involving deadlines or dishes, and feel that familiar flutter of excitement. What chapter of my life has Google decided to surprise me with today? I tap the notification, and suddenly I’m watching years of Father’s Day adventures unfold. It started accidentally—one Father’s Day trip to the Buffalo Zoo that somehow became our tradition. Instead of buying me something I … (image) “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” ~Dr. Seuss The notification pops up on my phone: “Jason, we made a new memory reel for you.” I pause whatever I’m doing, probably something stressful involving deadlines or dishes, and feel that familiar flutter of excitement. What chapter of my life has Google decided to surprise me with today? I tap the notification, and suddenly I’m watching years of Father’s Day adventures unfold. It started accidentally—one Father’s Day trip to the Buffalo Zoo that somehow became our tradition. Instead of buying me something I didn’t really need, we chose experiences. Year after year, we’d visit a new aquarium or zoo. There’s my son at age three at the Erie Zoo, barely tall enough to see over the penguin exhibit barrier. The same kid at five at the Baltimore Aquarium, tentative but overjoyed as he touched a stingray for the first time. Then six at the Philadelphia Zoo, taking in the fact that there is a tube system where some of the big cats can walk overhead. Buffalo, Erie, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charleston. We’d mapped Father’s Days across the Eastern Seaboard without ever planning it. So much time has passed since we started. My son has grown taller, lost teeth, found his voice. I’ve gotten balder, maybe a little softer around the edges. But there we are, year after year, choosing moments over things. We tell ourselves to create experiences instead of accumulating stuff, but just how important that choice is never really hits until you play it back. Here was the proof: a memory bank I didn’t even realize we were building, one Father’s Day adventure at a time. The emotions hit in waves. Pure joy at his excitement over feeding the stingrays, happy sadness watching his younger self discover jellyfish for the first time, overwhelming gratitude for every single trip we took. This ninety-second reel has become medicine for whatever current stress I’m carrying. And that’s when it hits me. My phone accidentally became my therapist. When Technology Gets It Right I never intended for Google Photos to become part of my self-care practice. Like most people, my wife and I take hundreds of photos without much thought, letting them pile up in digital storage. The idea of actually organizing or regularly looking through them feels overwhelming. Iƒt feels like thousands of images scattered across years of living. But then technology stepped in with an unexpected gift. These automated memory reels started appearing, curating my own life back to me in perfectly sized emotional portions. Not the entire overwhelming archive, just a gentle serving of “Remember this?” At first, I was skeptical. Another way for a tech company to keep me glued to my screen when I routinely looked for ways to escape. But as these memory notifications became part of my routine, I realized something profound was happening. Google’s algorithm had accidentally created something I never knew I needed: regular reminders of how blessed my life has been. The beauty is in the surprise element. I’m not seeking out specific photos when I’m --- ## Beware of Anger URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/beware-of-anger/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-11 A Path to Healthier Hearts Anger can alert us to threats, but it can also harm our health and strain our relationships. In small, passing doses, anger can feel like medicine—jolting us into action. But when anger becomes persistent and consuming, it poisons the mind and those around us. A Guided Evening: Wednesday Night Meditation and Talk In this meditation and discussion, we begin with a 45-minute practice: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then we move into a talk addressing a timely topic many are facing during the Coronavirus pandemic: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. You’re warmly invited to join my free Wednesday Meditations—open to everyone. What’s Included Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona Audio: Downloadable recordings of both sessions Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity These teachings are offered freely. If you feel moved to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity, you may offer a dāna (donation) to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity is a beautiful practice that opens the heart, relaxes the sense of “self,” and ripples outward to touch others—including ourselves. The Practice of Generosity Generosity is not limited to money. Many expressions of generosity are everyday: offering attention, encouragement, patience, and a listening ear. A simple act of listening, a word of appreciation, or a kind look can be a powerful gift. Try cultivating a little more generosity for one day and notice what changes. Note: If you’d like to support the Wednesdays, you’ll find the option to donate via a simple online form and PayPal after you submit your information. --- ## Meditation + Talk: How Mindful Awareness of Emotional Pleasure and Pain Can Break the Chain of Suffering URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-how-mindful-awareness-of-emotional-pleasure-and-pain-can-break-the-chain-of-suffering/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick Hanson offered a meditation and talk about How Mindful Awareness of Emotional Pleasure and Pain Can Break the Chain of Suffering. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Come to Center URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/come-to-center/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 When feeling scattered, collect and concentrate your thoughts and feelings. Return to the reliable rewards of feeling already full. Savor pleasure, move, lift your eyes to the horizon, enjoy art, feel the core of your body, and come into the present moment. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: Creating a Healthy Relationship (With Yourself) with Najwa Zebian URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-creating-a-healthy-relationship-with-yourself-with-najwa-zebian/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Poet, activist, and author Najwa Zebian joins Forrest for a conversation focused on discovering what truly matters to us. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: How to Change Your Perspective URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-how-to-change-your-perspective/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Forrest and Rick explore what a healthy perspective looks like in practice and how we can change our perspectives over time. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: Two Fundamental Realities – 1. We Will All Die; 2. We Know Not When URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-two-fundamental-realities-1-we-will-all-die-2-we-know-not-when/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Daniel Ellenberg offered a meditation and talk on Two Fundamental Realities – 1. We Will All Die; 2. We Know Not When. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: Bringing Wisdom to Our Reactions to World Events URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-bringing-wisdom-to-our-reactions-to-world-events/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick Hanson offered a meditation and talk about Bringing Wisdom to Our Reactions to World Events. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Be Helpful URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/be-helpful/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Do not underestimate the impact of a small deed. We all know that the needs in this world are great. And so are the opportunities to make a big difference to the ones we touch. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Do Freely URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/do-freely/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 There’s a way to relate to the endless To Do list that’s freer and less burdened. When we “do freely” we refresh in having a sense of choice. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: How to Become Self-Confident URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-how-to-become-self-confident/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 We explore how we can improve our self-confidence, which helps us become psychologically flexible and create healthy boundaries with other people. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: Should You Become A Parent? URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-should-you-become-a-parent/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 On today’s episode, Dr. Rick and Forrest focus on one of the most important decisions we’ll make in life: the choice to become a parent. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: The Power of Love in Turbulent Times URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-the-power-of-love-in-turbulent-times/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick Hanson offered a meditation and talk about The Power of Love in Turbulent Times. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: See the Whole, Be the Whole URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-see-the-whole-be-the-whole/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick Hanson offered a meditation and talk called See the Whole, Be the Whole. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Drop The “Shoulds” URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/drop-the-shoulds/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 When healthy inclinations become “shoulds” “musts” then there is a big problem. Consider a situation that bothers you, and find a deeper “should” that’s related to an experience you “must” have or avoid. Face the should, ask this question: “Is it really true?” [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: Mastering Change with Brad Stulberg URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-mastering-change-with-brad-stulberg/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Brad Stulberg joins Forrest to explore how we can reshape who we are, navigate and embrace change, and become more resilient. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: The Polyvagal Theory and Recovering from Trauma with Dr. Stephen Porges URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-the-polyvagal-theory-and-recovering-from-trauma-with-dr-stephen-porges/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of the polyvagal theory, joins the podcast to walk us through how its lessons can be applied to recovering from traumatic experiences. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: How to Use Fear and Not Let It Use You URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-how-to-use-fear-and-not-let-it-use-you/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick Hanson offered a meditation and talk called How to Use Fear and Not Let It Use You. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: Tools For Difficult Conversations URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-tools-for-difficult-conversations/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Oren Jay Sofer offered a meditation and talk called Tools For Difficult Conversations. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Love Your Neighbor URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/love-your-neighbor/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Kindness to others is enlightened self-interest. Compassion and kindness expresses an inner freedom.  [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Kindness to You is Kindness to Me; Kindness to Me is Kindness to You URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/kindness-to-you-is-kindness-to-me-kindness-to-me-is-kindness-to-you/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Kindness to others and to yourself is a genuine and beautiful two-way street. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: The Being Well Holiday Survival Guide URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-the-being-well-holiday-survival-guide/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how to survive the holidays with the dishes (mostly) intact. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: What Really Helps Trauma? with Dr. Jacob Ham URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-what-really-helps-trauma-with-dr-jacob-ham/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In one of the most interesting conversations we’ve ever had on the podcast, Forrest is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Jacob Ham to explore what really helps people work with – and be with – trauma. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: Wise Effort: Already Home URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-wise-effort-already-home/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick offered a meditation and talk called Wise Effort – Already Home. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: The Essence of Practice – Loving, Knowing, and Growing URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-the-essence-of-practice-loving-knowing-and-growing/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick offered a meditation and talk called The Essence of Practice: Loving, Knowing, and Growing. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Say Thanks URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/say-thanks/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Say Thanks – it’s a small moment with big ripples. What do you feel when someone thanks you for something? For a comment in a meeting, a task done at home, an extra step taken, an encouraging word. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Learn As You Go URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/learn-as-you-go/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Are you missing opportunities to grow stronger, happier, and more resilient? Each day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and take in the good. Use this two-step process to heal from the past, grow strengths for the future. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: Highly Sensitive People, Repairing with Family, and “Talking About Talking”: November Mailbag URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-highly-sensitive-people-repairing-with-family-and-talking-about-talking-november-mailbag/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Dr. Rick and Forrest open up the mailbag and answer questions from listeners about repairing with family, highly sensitive people, and more. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Being Well Podcast: What Healthy Couples DON’T Do with Dr. Amy Morin URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-what-healthy-couples-dont-do-with-dr-amy-morin/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Therapist Amy Morin joins Forrest to help us learn how to regulate our thoughts, manage our emotions, and become more psychologically flexible. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Meditation + Talk: Releasing and Receiving URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-releasing-and-receiving/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick offered a meditation and talk called Releasing Receiving. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/364/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings… [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341898773{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]In this meditation, talk and discussion from my Wednesday Night Meditation, we start with a 45-minute meditation in Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart. Then, as many are dealing with a range of feelings during the Coronavirus pandemic, I offer a talk on Love and Anger in the Time of Corona. I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341871000{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Resting at Peace in a Radiant Heart [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341045073{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1585341924664{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585341916709{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Love and Anger in the Time of Corona [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1585344651129{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584459334949{margin-top: 40px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584444232868{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Practicing Dāna: Cultivating Generosity [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584820360729{margin-top: 65px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. And if you like, you may wish to participate in the age-old tradition of generosity through making an offering yourself – called “dāna” – to support Rick and the Wednesday Meditations. Generosity itself is a beautiful practice that opens and gladdens the heart, relaxes the contraction of “self,” and ripples out into the world to touch many people – and perhaps, eventually, even oneself. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459266594{margin-top: 15px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584459323955{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] /* “function”==typeof InitializeEditor,callIfLoaded:function(o){return!(!gform.domLoaded||!gform.scriptsLoaded||!gform.themeScriptsLoaded&&!gform.isFormEditor()||(gform.isFormEditor()&&console.warn(“The use of gform.initializeOnLoaded() is deprecated in the form editor context and will be removed in Gravity Forms 3.1.”),o(),0))},initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.callIfLoaded(o)||(document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.scriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),document.addEventListener(“gform/theme/scripts_loaded”,()=>{gform.themeScriptsLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,()=>{gform.domLoaded=!0,gform.callIfLoaded(o)}))},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,r,e,t)},addFilter:function(o,r,e,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,r,e,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,r){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,r)},removeFilter:function(o,r,e){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,r,e)},addHook:function(o,r,e,t,n){null==gform.hooks[o][r]&&(gform.hooks[o][r]=[]);var d=gform.hooks[o][r];null==n&&(n=r+”_”+d.length),gform.hooks[o][r].push({tag:n,callable:e,priority:t=null==t?10:t})},doHook:function(r,o,e){var t;if(e=Array.prototype.slice.call(e,1),null!=gform.hooks[r][o]&&((o=gform.hooks[r][o]).sort(function(o,r){return o.priority-r.priority}),o.forEach(function(o){“function”!=typeof(t=o.callable)&&(t=window[t]),”action”==r?t.apply(null,e):e[0]=t.apply(null,e)})),”filter”==r)return e[0]},removeHook:function(o,r,t,n){var e;null!=gform.hooks[o][r]&&(e=(e=gform.hooks[o][r]).filter(function(o,r,e){return!!(null!=n&&n!=o.tag||null!=t&&t!=o.priority)}),gform.hooks[o][r]=e)}}); /* ]]> */ "*" indicates required fields Email Address* Donation Amount:* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation?* Would you like to make this an automatic, recurring weekly donation? Yes No Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* = 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_wrapper_113’);var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘#gform_confirmation_wrapper_113’).length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf(‘gformRedirect(){‘) >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! is_redirect && ! is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery(‘html’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + parseInt(jQuery(‘body’).css(‘margin-top’), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass(‘gform_validation_error’)){jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).addClass(‘gform_validation_error’);} else {jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).removeClass(‘gform_validation_error’);}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).offset().top – mt); }, 50 );if(window[‘gformInitDatepicker’]) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window[‘gformInitPriceFields’]) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery(‘#gform_source_page_number_113’).val();gformInitSpinner( 113, ”, true );jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_page_loaded’, [113, current_page]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find(‘.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK’).html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}jQuery(‘#gform_wrapper_113’).replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery(‘#gf_113’).offset().top – mt);jQuery(document).trigger(‘gform_confirmation_loaded’, [113]);window[‘gf_submitting_113’] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery(‘#gform_confirmation_message_113’).text());}else{jQuery(‘#gform_113’).append(contents);if(window[‘gformRedirect’]) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger(“gform_pre_post_render”, [{ formId: “113”, currentPage: “current_page”, abort: function() { this.preventDefault(); } }]); if (event && event.defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_wrapper_113” ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document.createElement( “span” ); visibilitySpan.id = “gform_visibility_test_113”; gformWrapperDiv.insertAdjacentElement( “afterend”, visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document.getElementById( “gform_visibility_test_113″ ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender() { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform.core.triggerPostRenderEvents( 113, current_page ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv.parentNode.removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function() { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function() { timeout = null; if ( !immediate ) func.apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && !timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func.apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function() { triggerPostRender(); }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations.forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation.type === ‘attributes’ && visibilityTestDiv.offsetParent !== null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender(); observer.disconnect(); } }); }); observer.observe( document.body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: [ ‘style’, ‘class’ ], }); } else { triggerPostRender(); } } );} ); /* ]]> */ [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1584458073685{margin-bottom: 40px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1584457982337{margin-top: 15px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”]Additionally, many expressions of generosity are not about money. People offer attention, encouragement, and patience many times a day. Sometimes we withhold when it would be so easy, actually, to listen quietly for another minute or to offer a word of appreciation or simply a look that says, “I’m with you.” Try being a little more generous for a day and see what happens. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] ;(function (l, z, f, e, r, p) { r = z.createElement(f); p = z.getElementsByTagName(f)[0]; r.async = 1; r.src = e; p.parentNode.insertBefore(r, p); })(window, document, ‘script’, “); --- ## Twelve Good Things About Life Worth Living URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/twelve-good-things-about-life-worth-living/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 12 Good Things About Life Worth Living Intro Life is a mosaic of moments—big and small, bright and quiet, expected and surprising. In the hustle of daily demands, it’s easy to overlook the simple, enduring blessings that make life worthwhile. This piece chronicles twelve good things about life worth living, not as platitudes, but as reminders to pause, notice, and cultivate gratitude. May these reflections spark a deeper appreciation and inspire you to invest in what truly nourishes the soul. The Gift of Breath and Presence Each inhale is a chance to reset; each exhale a signal that we are here. The ability to pause, notice, and be present is a quiet superpower that grounds us amid chaos. Connection with People You Love Friendships, family, mentors, and strangers who brighten our days—human connection is a wellspring of support, learning, and shared joy. Small Moments, Big Meaning A cup of tea, a warm smile, a sunbeam through a window—these tiny events accumulate into a life rich with meaning. Lessons from Adversity Challenges test us, but they also teach resilience, creativity, and compassion. Growth often arrives wearing a different name. Curiosity and the Joy of Learning Every new fact, skill, or perspective expands our world. Lifelong learning keeps the mind flexible and imagination alive. Beauty in Everyday Surroundings Nature, art, music, and design offer frequent reminders that beauty exists in many forms, inviting awe and gratitude. The Freedom to Choose The ability to decide our path—even in small ways—empowers us to align actions with values and purpose. The Body’s Resources Energy, strength, and the body’s remarkable systems often work behind the scenes to support our goals and adventures. Quiet Moments of Reflection Silence, journaling, meditation, or simply watching the world go by can restore peace and insight. Acts of Kindness Small gestures—holding a door, listening deeply, lending a hand—create ripples that can transform a day and, over time, a life. Hope and Possibility Even in uncertainty, we glimpse potential. Hope fuels action and keeps dreams within reach. The Power of Purpose Having something meaningful to strive toward—whether a goal, a relationship, or a cause—gives direction and motivation. Conclusion Life’s goodness isn’t measured by dramatic milestones alone but by the cumulative everyday experiences that nourish heart and mind. By noticing and cherishing these twelve aspects, we cultivate gratitude, resilience, and a deeper sense of living well. May you find joy in the ordinary and courage in the ordinary moments that push you toward your best self. Further Reading and Practice Mindful gratitude journaling: write three things you’re grateful for each day. Daily micro-habits: one small action aligned with your values. Slow down to notice: commit to a 5-minute daily pause of observation. Author Note Awung Ngang writes to illuminate the ordinary as extraordinary—inviting readers to live with intention, kindness, and curiosity. --- ## Let It Flow URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/let-it-flow/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Mindful Resilience Through Life’s Ups and Downs Teaser (short, for social previews or newsletter intro) Mindfulness helps you stay steady when life gets bumpy—learn to ride the waves with gratitude, grace, and inner peace. Introduction Life is a continual ebb and flow of gains and losses, praise and blame, pleasure and pain. By letting thoughts and experiences flow without clinging, we can navigate challenges with steadiness, gratitude, and grace—without being overwhelmed. Main Discussion Mindful Resilience in Daily Life The inevitable bumps of life—what they are, why they occur, and how they affect our mental state. The practice of observing thoughts and emotions without judgment to prevent reactivity. Techniques to maintain equilibrium during stress, including breathing, grounding, and brief reflective pauses. Parenting as a Fundamental Choice The Being Well Podcast episode framing: choosing to become a parent is one of life’s most meaningful decisions. The practical vision of good parenting beyond ideals: showing up consistently, modeling values, and fostering resilience. The critical distinction: viewing a child as a “means” versus an “end,” and how this perspective informs parenting decisions. Practical Guidance for Prospective Parents Assessing readiness: values alignment, support networks, and emotional resources. Aligning expectations with reality: the daily commitments, joys, and challenges of parenting. Decision framework: evaluating whether parenting is the right path for you at this stage of life. Resource Spotlight: Neurodharma Course Overview: a live online course designed to develop seven key qualities that steady the mind, warm the heart, and cultivate inner peace. Special offer: code BeingWell20 for 20% off the purchase price. How it complements mindful parenting and personal growth. Calls to Action Watch the episode on YouTube to explore the parenting discussion and mindfulness practices. Consider enrolling in Neurodharma to deepen your internal calm and resilience. Share your thoughts in the comments: what practices help you stay steady when life gets bumpy? Editorial Notes Visuals: Include a balanced, professional image pairings—one reflecting mindfulness and one reflecting family/caregiving. Accessibility: Use clear headings, concise paragraphs, and alt text for all media. Conclusion Letting thoughts and experiences flow—paired with mindful practices and informed life choices—enables us to ride life’s waves with gratitude, grace, and a reliable sense of inner peace. --- ## Being Well Podcast: How to Become a NEW Person URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-how-to-become-a-new-person/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how we can step out of the way we’ve been, and into a new way of thinking, doing, and being. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”71708″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]We all know that change is inevitable in life, and getting good at changing is one of the most important skills we can develop. It’s also one of the most difficult to master, as so many parts of who we are tend to resist change. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1626716173756{margin-top: 50px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]On today’s episode of the Being Well Podcast, writer and coach Brad Stulberg joins Forrest to explore how we can reshape who we are, navigate and embrace change, and become more resilient.   About our Guest: Brad focuses his work on the philosophical and psychological foundations of excellence, and the habits and practices necessary to attain it. He’s a regular contributor at The New York Times and the author of a number of wonderful books including The Practice of Groundedness and his most recent book Master of Change: How to Excel When Everything Is Changing – Including You. You can watch this episode on YouTube.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] LISTEN [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38547″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38546″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38545″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″ css=”.vc_custom_1548358925662{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”][vc_single_image image=”38543″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_patte --- ## Meditation + Talk: Effortless Effort – The Wise Effort of No-Self URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-effortless-effort-the-wise-effort-of-no-self/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Stephen Doetsu Snyder offered a meditation and talk about Effortless Effort: The Wise Effort of No-Self. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]This Wednesday Night Meditation included a 33-minute meditation and a 50-minute talk about See the Whole, Be the Whole.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1675388415367{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – which are open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1698429121902{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: See the Whole, Be the Whole [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1698430404150{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1698429104207{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: See the Whole, Be the Whole [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1698430423384{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1592665944417{margin-top: 25px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Dāna offering: [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1593494145571{margin-top: 25px !important;margin-bottom: 15px !important;}”](image) These teachings are offered freely, at no charge. To practice generosity through making an offering – called “dāna” in the language of early Buddhism – please enter your email and donation amount below. Once you click “Donate” you will be directed to PayPal, where you can pay via credit card (no PayPal account required) or your PayPal account.[/vc_column_text] --- ## Meditation + Talk: Right Effort . . . about Right Effort! URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/meditation-talk-right-effort-about-right-effort/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 In this Wednesday Night Meditation, Rick Hanson offered a meditation and talk called Right Effort . . . about Right Effort! [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”71720″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of the polyvagal theory, joins us on this episode of the Being Well Podcast to walk us through how its lessons can be applied to recovering from traumatic experiences.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1626716173756{margin-top: 50px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]We start by simplifying the polyvagal theory, discussing the three key states our body can rest in, and exploring some of polyvagal’s key take-aways. Dr. Porges then explains why there are common responses to traumatic events, and finishes by sharing some polyvagal-informed practices we can use to to heal old wounds and feel safer.  About our Guest: Dr. Stephen Porges is a Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina, and Professor Emeritus at both the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Maryland. He’s published more than 300 peer-reviewed papers and is the author of a number of books, including his recently released Our Polyvagal World: How Safety and Trauma Change Us. You can watch this episode on YouTube.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] LISTEN [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38547″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38546″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38545″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″ css=”.vc_custom_1548358925662{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”][vc_single_image image=”38543″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_ --- ## Be Mind Full of Good URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/be-mind-full-of-good/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 With a mind full of good, you’ll have more to offer others, which will grow the good in them, too, perhaps—reaching eventually around the whole world. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”71734″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Ah the holidays, that blessed time of year when we come together with our highly functional family systems to engage in some good, old-fashioned fun. If that sounded like a joke, this episode of the Being Well Podcast is for you. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1626716173756{margin-top: 50px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how to survive the holidays with the dishes (mostly) intact. They talk about the pull of dysfunctional family systems, our tendency to return to the way things were “back then,” and balancing the desire to flip the Thanksgiving table with the desire to just make it through another year.  I thought this was one of the most interesting conversations we’ve had recently, and I hope you enjoy it. You can watch this episode on YouTube.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] LISTEN [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38547″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38546″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38545″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″ css=”.vc_custom_1548358925662{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”][vc_single_image image=”38543″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1626716182229{margin-top: 50px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text] WATCH --- ## Being Well Podcast: Harnessing Your Generativity: The Secret to Productivity, Creativity, and Consistency URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/being-well-podcast-harnessing-your-generativity-the-secret-to-productivity-creativity-and-consistency/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Dr. Rick joins Forrest for a deep dive into harnessing our natural generativity. How can we become more productive and creative, experience greater satisfaction, and lean into our biological drives to get more of what we want out of life? [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]This Wednesday Night Meditation included a 32-minute meditation and a 52-minute talk about Tools For Difficult Conversations. Our guest teacher Oren Jay Sofer teaches meditation and communication internationally. He holds a degree in comparative religion from Columbia University and is a Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner for the healing of trauma. Oren is also the author of several books, including the best-seller Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication and his latest book, Your Heart Was Made for This: Contemplative Practices to Meet a World In Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love. His teaching has reached people around the world through his online communication courses and guided meditations. A husband and a father, Oren lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he enjoys cooking, spending time in nature, and home woodworking projects.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1675388415367{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – which are open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1699547434258{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Tools For Difficult Conversations [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1699547592149{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1699547473750{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Tools For Difficult Conversations [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=” ; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1699547621205{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animati --- ## The Basement of Suffering URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-basement-of-suffering/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 Resting into fullness. A way to explore the green zone as a way of engaging the challenges of life while not getting stressed. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]This Wednesday Night Meditation included a 33-minute meditation and a 49-minute talk from Rick’s series on Wise Effort, focusing on being Already Home. This is the first in a series on Wise Effort. Many people these days are feeling discombobulated, rattled, befuddled, alarmed, outraged . . . . What to do about this? We need clarity about the efforts that we CAN make, and we need to find authentic ways to be at peace with what is out of our hands. So this series offers simple steps we can take in our own lives to find our footing, lower the pressures, and feel calmer and clearer inside. This talk and meditation featured several quotations which can be found under the video players below.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1675388415367{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”]I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – which are open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1700159724063{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Meditation: Wise Effort – Already Home [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1700245973822{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Meditation [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1700159754694{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Talk: Wise Effort – Already Home [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”; el_width=”90″ align=”center”][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMG5hbWUlM0QlMjJkYW5hJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1700262555745{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”] Download the Audio of this Talk [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] This talk touched on 5 different aspects that related to 5 different quotations, which are: — ONE — Be at home in your refuges My heart is moved by all I cannot save: So much has been destroyed I have to cast my lot with those who Age after age, Perversely, --- ## The Sweetness of Lovingkindness URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/the-sweetness-of-lovingkindness/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 This talk from the San Rafael Meditation focuses on lovingkindness through personal effort, deliberate practice, There is a sweetness in the emphasis on the power of love. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]This Wednesday Night Meditation included a 34-minute meditation and a 47-minute talk from Rick’s series on Wise Effort, focusing on The Essence of Practice: Loving, Knowing, and Growing. Life happens to us, and we happen in life, in nature, in reality. Then what?We can either be swept along, in ignorance, fueled and poisoned by hatred, greed, and heartache.Or we can practice: In our relationship to and how we respond to what is happening to us our experiences of that, and the nature of reality itself Practice is like a three-legged stool, with three key elements. In Pali: Metta. Sati. Bhavana. — loosely translated into English: Loving. Knowing. Growing. This talk and meditation featured several quotations which can be found under the video players below. [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701128947036{margin-bottom: 30px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;background-color: #f0f0f0 !important;}”]I hope you find it helpful, and you are welcome to join my free Wednesday Meditations – which are open to everyone![/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” css_animation=””][vc_column_inner css=”.vc_custom_1585341935427{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custo --- ## Three Questions to Change Your Day – Life URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/three-questions-to-change-your-day-life/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 This talk from the San Rafael Meditation focus is on three questions 1) Should I be bother about this? 2) Should I stay driven about this? 3) Should I be clinging about this? [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”71746″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]In one of the most interesting conversations we’ve ever had on the Being Well Podcast, Forrest is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Jacob Ham to explore what really helps people work with – and be with – trauma. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1626716173756{margin-top: 50px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]They begin with Dr. Ham’s background and what drew him to trauma work before Forrest asks him how he “conceptualizes” different kinds of traumatic experiences. Dr. Ham then takes them away from the conceptual, and toward the felt.  They talk about cultivating a felt sense of connection, empathy as a way in to relationship, and the value of anger. Dr. Ham shares about his own process taking risks as a clinician, using parts work, moving away from the “false idol” of cognizing, and finding a unique way in for each individual. About our Guest: Dr. Jacob Ham is a clinical psychologist, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Mount Sinai, and the Director of the Center for Complex Trauma. He was the therapist former podcast guest Stephanie Foo wrote about in her wonderful book What My Bones Know. You can watch this episode on YouTube.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] LISTEN [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38547″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38546″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38545″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″ css=”.vc_custom_1548358925662{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”][vc_single_i --- ## Resting In Love URL: https://skmarketsinc.com/resting-in-love/ Type: post Modified: 2025-11-08 This talk from the San Rafael Meditation focuses on resting in love and the need for connecting. [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”71787″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Just as we can exercise our arms or legs to build physical strength, we can exercise our brains like we do any other muscle. On this episode of the Being Well Podcast, Therapist Amy Morin joins Forrest to help us learn how to regulate our thoughts, manage our emotions, and become more psychologically flexible.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_1626716173756{margin-top: 50px !important;}” z_index=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]These key skills are particularly important for building a healthy relationship. Forrest and Amy explore how couples can work together to identify their issues, deal with effort imbalances, and avoid common mistakes (like having, get this, not enough conflict).  About our Guest: Amy Morin is a licensed clinical social worker, bestselling author, and the host of the Mentally Stronger podcast.Her most recent book is 13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don’t Do, out on December 26th. You can watch this episode on YouTube.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] LISTEN [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38547″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38546″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”38545″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-0 vc_col-md-offset-0 vc_col-sm-offset-0 vc_col-xs-6″ css=”.vc_custom_1548358925662{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}”][vc_single_image image=”38543″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” qode_css_animation=”” link=”;][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” css=”.vc_custom_16267161822 ---