Hugh | Page 4 | Roper5

Running update 5-9-08

I should be finished with the 13-week program by now. I’m not.

Yesterday I ran week 10 session 1 (run 30 minutes, walk 1, run 30 minutes). I did it. My longest run ever. I love this 13-week program. After tomorrow’s run, my 2008 total will be 90+ miles.

I’ve decided when I finish to run the “run faster program.” Then I’ll either run the run longer program or possibly train for a half marathon (following in my neice’s inspiring footsteps).

BTW, I’ve lost 20 lbs., 15 since starting the program. 15 lbs., to go.

05/09/2008 | hugh | How's your running? (comment) [4]

Just chilin'

I love this photo of a baby anaheim chili from our garden. It reminds me of my nephew brad with his beanie on.

05/09/2008 | hugh | Comment [1]

Being Proactive

I made the first principle (or habit) too complex. Here’s an attempt at simplifying… being proactive means to make things happen.

Habit #1: Be Proactive
Make things happen (Do it.)

Take initiative (rather than being victimized)
Focus on what you can influence
Recognize, learn from and correct mistakes
Make and keep commitments

05/07/2008 | hugh | Comment [3]

Many of you know that I’ve been self-employed full-time for almost three years (and part-time for four years). During most of that time new business has come via word or mouth or by referrals. Looking back, business has been really good. As a result of (what I think is) the slow down in the economy, the amount of referrals has slowed.

I have recently realized that plenty of work is still available, but that my ability to seek and obtain new work is not as developed as I would like. I also feel like I’m not as effective with producing work as I should be. So I asked a friend (and brother) to help me improve my “sales” skills. During a number of hours on the phone my friend provided a framework to discover potential client needs (and goals), and to create an opportunity to help them then fill their needs (or reach their goals).

Part of this framework is based on the book “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey. My friend (and brother) encouraged me to study this book and teach what I learn to someone else. I’ll be honest, I’ve read parts of the book in the past, but never “caught the vision,” or actually worked to implement the habits in my life. I also previously studied “First Things First” with Michele, but we became busy and didn’t complete it.

One of the basic principles the book teaches is that people can change (and improve) if they choose to. I’ve decided to make the choice to change (and improve). My recent experiences with running and gardening (as well as many past experiences) have helped me realize this is a true principle.

Continue reading Changing Habits...

05/05/2008 | hugh | Comment [3]

Pigeon Control

I was up at the temple last night helping in the baptistry. Every so often I would hear an odd banging noise that sounded like something hitting the side of the building. The temple is always quiet and reverent, so any noise like this seems pretty loud. My imagination ran a little wild, but I couldn’t think of a better place to be and forgot about it.

After everything was finished while we were waiting outside I took McLeavitt over to experience the amazing acoustics of the trees. On the way over there we saw a guy with a bunch of tennis balls and a large slingshot that would make any college student happy. Upon further investigation I noticed he was wearing some sort of vest that said “Pigeon Control” on the back. You can guess where the noises came from.

I think it’s wonderful that we have a Prophet who appreciates (what many would consider to be) one of the lowliest of creatures.

04/30/2008 | hugh | Comment [1]