A WORD ABOUT SYSTEMIC DUCK FEEDERS: Some organizations and groups encourage anonymous feedback, in mistaken belief that this provides a safe environment for honest communication. WRONG! Anonymous feedback promotes dysfunctional systems . . . and dysfunctional systems are essentially "duck food silos." (I put a spin on an old mantra, "If you can't say it to his/her face, don't say it at all." Of course, sometimes we need help -- a mentor, an advocate, a companion, a safe structure. But whatever it takes, in healthy systems, constructive, behavior-focused criticism comes with a name attached, and if at all possible, is given face-to- face.)

Finally: HOW NOT TO BE A DUCK: Before YOU criticize, think clearly. Figure out what is really bugging you. And then speak directly to person with whom you have a problem. Use 'I' statements (a skill unknown to ducks, as far as I know). Rehearse ahead of time to be sure you're focused on behavior (Do-ing), not Be-ing. A good rule is to ask yourself, "How would this sound if she (or he) were talking to ME?"

© Maureen Killoran, 2005

Fortunately there is a simple answer. If you exert more control over information that you receive, then you start to exert more control over information that arrives into your sub-conscious mind. In turn this gives you more control over results you get.

So how do you do that? Simply put yourself in a position where you expose yourself to less neutral and negative information, and more positive information. How do you do that? Evaluate information that is flowing to you, and reduce your exposure to information that is not likely to contribute positively to your results.

When you start to look at your sources of information you may find that some of people in your life are not a positive inspiration to you. Should you dissociate yourself from them? Not necessarily, but spend less time with them and do it less often. The same applies to television programs that are not uplifting or thought provoking, and to newspapers and magazines.

Similarly identify people who you aspire to be like in some way, and find out how to spend time with them. Identify reading material that will give you insights into life or help you grow as a person. Biographies of successful people might be a good example. Listen to self development CD's when you are travelling.

What you expose yourself to, and focus on, expands. Become a censor of information that you allow yourself to be exposed to which is not helpful in achieving life results you want, and a promoter of information which will help.

For more information about achieving results that you want in life, in every area of your life, visit http://www.mypowerfulmind.com/page/page/1653324.htm Be sure to sign up for regular newsletter