So many of problems today both with parenting and teaching is way society and government put handcuffs on both. Parents can't even hit their children today without threat of being a child abuser and being carted off jail, court or worse. Discipline is not abuse, and I believe that discipline is sorely needed. I am not advocating child abuse, however, you cannot reason with a 2 year old sticking their finger in a wall socket. A firm no, with a slight slap of hand works wonders. I am amazed at what children get away with today. However, they get away with these things, because parents let them. Over years we've let government, vocal parental groups, legislators and legal system dictate how we raise our children. Why? Because then we can use mantra, "It's not my fault, it's not my responsibility".

People today are to quick to abdicate responsibility to everyone but themselves. One of biggest problems are all frivolous lawsuits out there. Children taking their parents to court. Parents suing companies because of hot coffee, a hot pickle. These cases get too much attention and unbelievably juries that give out awards.

The media perpetuates many of problems today. By focusing so much attention on people that do harm to others, more individuals out there figure if they want attention they need to do same. This becomes a vicious cycle, and teaches our children wrong way to accomplish things.

So, how do we fix it. We all take responsibility for our actions. We don't abdicate our responsibility. We admit we are human, we make mistakes, and move forward from there. Try and I mean really try not to make same mistakes over and over. But most important of all, take responsibility for your own screw ups and don't put blame on anyone else.

Copyright DeFiore Enterprises 2001

G. Educate, don't intimidate. Help person understand your position. Be prepared to explain, detail and justify to that person why they should accept your offer.

H. Be patient. If at first you don't succeed try again. Slow but steady movement creates momentum, which can lead to agreement.

I. Consider what would occur if there is no agreement. The pluses and minuses. Can you afford to walk away or do you have to do it now.

J. Be flexible and creative. Always have a fall back position. Some alternative that satisfies you and other party enough to make a deal (for example, in Lease Purchasing, consultation, if lease purchase doesn't work). Be competitive, you just might find you get what you need.

Copyright 2000, DeFiore Enterprises.