"It's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."

- Abraham Lincoln

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"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any."

- Alice Walker

4 Ways to Fire Up Your Idea Engine by Arnie McKinnis

Searching for ideas? Trying to figure out what to do next? I know I am. And these four ideas have actually come in handy! This small article by Arnie McKinnis packs in some big ideas:

1. Do a random internet search
   Figure out a few keywords that make sense and see what's out there.
2. Look at different (non-competitive) products, industries, or regions
   Find out what makes them innovative, and think about how that can be used for your company or product.
3. Look at trends
   Check out "trend sites" like Springwise or Trendwatching.
4. Look at where the money is going
   People are cautious with money, but venture capitalists are smart and usually right.

"Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don't."

- Bill Nye

9 Habits of Remarkably Persuasive People by Jeff Haden

Yet another great little information-packed article by Jeff Haden. These nine points are good to keep in mind, be it casual conversation or a presentation to a packed auditorium. Here are the 9 Habits of Remarkably Persuasive People:

1. They Take Bold Stands
   • Humans prefer cockiness to expertise. We naturally equate confidence with skill.
   • Be bold. Stop saying 'I think' and 'I believe' - instead just say 'It will.'
2. They Adjust Their Rate of Speech
   • If the audience is likely to disagree, talk faster - it gives less time to formulate counter-arguments.
   • If they are likely to agree, speak slower - it gives more time to evaluate and factor into their own thoughts.
3. They Start with Small 'Wins'
   • Gaining agreement has an enduring effect.
   • Start with statements or premises you know they will agree with to build a foundation of further agreement.
4. They Occasionally Swear
   • Tossing in an occasional and heart-felt curse word can show urgency and concern.
   • Authenticity is more persuasive.
5. They Know Their Audience
   • Don't push for instant agreement if their personality style requires thinking time; likewise, don't hesitate if they don't require thinking time.
6. They Share Positives and Negatives
   • Sharing an opposing viewpoint or two is more persuasive.
   • Very few ideas are perfect; sharing negatives shows understanding of potential misgivings.
7. They Draw Positive Conclusions
   • Positive-outcome statements are more persuasive than scare tactics.
8. They Choose the Right Medium
   • For example: men tend to feel competitive in person while women, the opposite.
9. Most of All, They Make Sure They're Right
   • Be clear, concise, and to the point.
   • Make sure your data, reasoning, and conclusions are beyond reproach.