Monday, December 28, 2009

IF YOU CAN FIND HUMOR IN ANYTHING...

Years ago, I was watching a television news special. Dan Rather was interviewing Bill Cosby only weeks after his son was murdered. After sharing his grief over his son's death, the comedian was asked what I thought was a very difficult, if not unfair, question. “Now that Bill Cosby's son is no longer with us,” said Rather “what is Bill Cosby going to do with the rest of his life?” Cosby contemplated the question for a few seconds and confidently said, “I think it’s time for me to tell the people that we have to laugh. We've got to laugh. You can turn painful situations around through laughter. If you can find humor in anything...you can survive it.” I think that about says it all!!!!!

Laugh It Off Productions, Rizz's Biz
http://www.steverizzo.com
steve@steverizzo.com
http://twitter.com/AttitudeAdj

Friday, December 18, 2009

Failing At Something

Failing at something doesn't matter - It's how You Deal with it that does! http://www.steverizzo.com/SteveRizzosSecretMinuteToSuccess.aspx?vid=2

Thursday, December 17, 2009

NEVER LOSE HOPE

Never lose Hope - Even the smallest Light Shines in the darkness.
http://www.steverizzo.com/SteveRizzosSecretMinuteToSuccess.aspx?vid=1

Thursday, December 10, 2009

For Those Who Are Still Waiting

Time

Ticking away the moments that make up a dull day
You fritter and waste the hours in an off hand way
Kicking around on a piece of ground in your home town
Waiting for someone or something to show you the way

Tired of lying in the sunshine, staying home to watch the rain
You are young and life is long and there is time to kill today
And then one day you find ten years have got behind you
No one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun

And you run and you run, to catch up with the sun, but it’s sinking
And racing around to come up behind you again
The sun is the same in a relative way, but you’re older
Shorter of breath and one day closer to death

The above words were written by musician and song writer, Roger Waters. I believe everyone should have a copy of these lyrics hanging somewhere in their home or office as a reminder to take advantage of the time we have on this planet.

Time is something most of us take for granted. Especially the young, they have so much of it to spare. But as we become older we are acutely aware that we are using up yet another day, another season, another year. Misuse of our time is a major reason for so much of our unhappiness.

Our lives are based on choices. If we want to fulfill our dreams and desires we must take responsibility, choose accordingly and then take the appropriate action to achieve them. A lot of people have dreams and ideas for success, but only a few decide to do something about them. There are steps to be taken. There is always a process involved. That process, whatever it is always begins with you. If you are serious about making your life a meaningful journey then you simply must take action.

It is of extreme importance that you remember that your thoughts lead to every action you take. If you are continually creating thoughts that limit your ability or stifle your self esteem you will not be taking action with the attitude you need to succeed. In fact, habitual negative thinking can stop you from taking action all together.

It doesn’t matter how old you are or what you’ve done with your life up until this point. It makes no difference how much time you feel you’ve wasted or how many opportunities you have allowed to pass you by or how many heartaches and disappointments you’ve had. What really matters is what you are willing to do with your life from this point on. Not tomorrow. Not next week, but today. Right now you have an opportunity to turn your life around. You can take advantage and choose to utilize time to work for you. It is possible for you to achieve the things you desire. All it takes is a commitment on your part to take that necessary first step.

If you’ve been procrastinating over a career move make up your mind and take the necessary first step. Perhaps your desire is to lose weight or to sop smoking. Don’t put it off any longer. Stop the excuses. Make up your mind and do it. Maybe you’ve been longing to ask someone for forgiveness or to tell someone how much you care. Do it today; for tomorrow may never come. This list can go on and on, but I think you get the point.

If you are unsatisfied with any aspect of your life, know that you have the power to change. But also know that all change requires movement. Your dreams will always remain dreams unless you take action that is driven by passion. There is always one guarantee when it comes to success. If you don’t try, you will not succeed. Albert Einstein said, “Nothing happens until something moves.” I say, “Your life won’t happen until you move.” Waiting for life to shower you with material or spiritual treasures is the slowest most painful of all suicides. Waiting leads to hopelessness. Hopelessness breeds victims.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Better Left to Chance

Holding you, I held everything
For a moment, wasn't I the king
But if I'd only known how the king would fall
Hey who's to say , you know I might have changed it all
And now I”m glad I didn't know
The way it all would end, the way it all would go
Our lives, are better left in chance, I could have missed the pain
But I'd of had to missed the dance


The above lyrics, are from a song called “The Dance,” sung by Garth Brooks. This song simply and beautifully states that it's not the outcome or what happens to us that validates our lives, but rather; it's what we do and how we feel along the way that gives our lives meaning. We will never know who we are or what splendor life has to offer unless we jump in and participate in the dance. Yes, you may be entering unknown territory, but that's where the adventure is. You may be on top one day and suddenly fall the next but think about this. Isn't it better to fall than not to try at all?

We can strategically plan our lives, make careful use of our choices and take what we think are the appropriate actions to fulfill the ideal life we want, but there is absolutely no way of knowing with certainty what will happen. There are just too many variables and unexpected twists and turns that come into play. There is no sure way of knowing how our lives will wind up. Well guess what? We're not supposed to. If we did, the thrill of life would cease to exist.

As John Lennon said, “Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans.” Ironically, as you know the unexpected did happen to him. After years of inner turmoil and isolation from fame and the music business, John Lennon got his life together and came out of seclusion. He was making a huge comeback when he was suddenly killed by a crazed fan. This happened within weeks after his new album – ironically entitled - “Starting Over” - hit the top of the charts.

I can't help but wonder; what if John Lennon somehow knew that his life would be taken by an assassin's bullet? How would he have lived the rest of his life? Would he have come out of seclusion and into limelight again? Or would he have stopped dancing to the song in his heart and suppressed his potential, he's creativity, his soul and the very essence of who he was?

Our lives are better in chance simply because if we knew the outcome we would be tempted to override the gifts of choice and free will. ( No, not Free Willy. Free will.) If we altered our lives because we knew of our fate beforehand we would never know our true potential. Our experiences would be limited for fear of moving forward.

If we possessed the magical power to see into the future and know the outcome of a particular road we chose to follow, our lives would be boring – to say the least. We would be unchallenged to discover our essence. We would be robbing ourselves of the events that cause us to grow. It is the combination of our victories, successes, and happy moments – as well as our disappointments, failures and heartaches that make up the ingredients to the recipe of our lives. It's in the not-knowing - the uncertainty that makes our lives worthwhile.

Awhile back I was watching The Super Bowl at a hotel I was staying at. There were well over 100 people in the lounge area. Everyone was yelling and cheering for their team to win. It was an incredibly close game. Every time a team scored or made a great play, fans would jump out of their seats and cheer them on. It was obvious that everyone was excited and enjoying themselves. But that excitement and enjoyment was coming from the anticipation of not knowing which team was going to prove to be victorious.

My question to you, dear reader, is this – what would be the point in watching The Super Bowl or any other sporting event if we knew beforehand which team would win? Who could deny that it's in the not-knowing that makes it exciting? It's the same with our lives which have often been referred to as a game. Unlike any other game however; the goal in the game of life is not to win or to be the best, but rather it's to follow our hearts and to experience, learn, grow and become.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Monday, September 21, 2009

Pay It Forward

On September 8th 2009, I donated my time and lead an effort to empower a staff of over 500 employees at a soon-to-be-closed American Airline call center in Windsor, Connecticut. The event was held at the Mohegan Sun Hotel and Casino, in Uncasville Connecticut.

I have flown all over the country with American Airlines during my career as a comedian and a speaker. Throughout the years I got to know some of the workers very well. One person In particular is Barbra Bell. Or as I like to call her, My miracle worker.

When I learned of the pending closure, I decided that I was going to somehow help the departing workers find optimism during these trying times. I t was my way of saying "Thank You" for the many years of outstanding service they provided. I told Barbra that I was going to speak to the entire group at a venue in their area. Her response was "How in the world are you going to do that!?" My response to her was "I don't know, but I will find a way."

In the movie "Field O f Dreams" Kevin Costner hears a voice "Build it and they will come."
Well, I heard a voice inside me that said, "Ask and they will do it." That's exactly what I did and that's exactly what happened.

The first person to jump on board was Diane Goodman, President of Goodman's Speakers Bureau. Together we created an event themed "Don't Stop Believin." The following are those who graciously donated to the cause. Gina M. Rodigau, CMP, director of hotel sales at the Mohegan Sun, who allowed us to use the beautiful Cabaret Theater for the event. Darby O'Brien, advertising and public relations, who helped promote the event. Dattco, a New Britain based bus company, volunteered to provide American employees with no-cost transportation to the event and back. And the magnificent Passing Zone, my friends and a much sought after juggling act, who performed with me. By the way, these guys received four standing ovations. Wait, there's more. The event was also sponsored by Al Parinello, Executive Producer of the film "Clear Blue Tuesday."

This entire event brought together five industries that were hit by the current economy in an act of mutual support. As I said in the press release, "These are trying times. It's time we all look at the big picture and ask ourselves what it is that we can do to help each other." The message, "Pay it Forward."

Without a doubt, giving of ourselves is the one activity that makes us realize that we are all connected, and that it's this connection that plays a big part in making the world wonderful. Words cannot express the emotions and the gratitude from those who attended the event on September 8th. It is without a doubt one of the most gratifying feelings a person can experience. I can honestly say that I am the happiest when I've done something nice for someone. Don't just take my word for it. Try it for yourself, The next time an opportunity arises, take the initiative and perform an act of kindness for someone (even a stranger) and notice how you feel. For example, the next time you are walking through town and notice a parking summons on someones windshield, go over to the car, yank that sucker off, rip it up and throw it away! Why should that person have to pay for it? See, you feel better already, don't you?

These are trying times my friends! Once again, the message, "PAY IT FORWARD" Let's help each other.

Monday, August 17, 2009

WORK SHOULD BE FUN

Hello my friends, and once again welcome to my Blah, Blah, Blah, Blog. Well I am about to launch my new video Demo. I must say that it is the best video I have ever done. Thanks to the great Ed Primeau and Shelly Sink.

Ed has been my business associate and close friend for over 16 years. He is without a doubt the "Ultimate Expert" on video and audio production. What separates Ed from anyone else in his field, (besides the fact that he's the best) is his ability to make business personal. Let me explain.

Creating a video demo and product for speakers is not an easy task. After all, you're dealing with arguably the two biggest marketing tools in the speaking industry. There are a lot of egos to stroke, deadlines to be met, and money to be spent. Through the entire step by step process Ed assures everyone he works with that their needs are being taken care of.

Ed's greatest quality and I believe his strongest asset is his ability is to enjoy the process of whatever he is creating. I spent 3 days in his studio and through all the snags, setbacks, and mishaps, the laughter was non-stop. Ed Primeau is a Humor Being to the tenth-power. He always manages to see the humor in the midst of frustrating and challenging situations. It is this very quality that enables him to bounce back and continue from a healthier, more productive mind-set. Laughter instantly clears the mind of negative clutter and rejuvenates burn-out better than anything I know. Laughter also ignites the creative process.

Studies have shown that those who make conscious choices to enjoy themselves and laugh throughout the day are more creative, productive, and resilient to challenging problems. They are also more likely to easily find solutions to complex problems. In other words, focusing on your happiness makes you smarter. How smart are you, dear reader?

"Intellectual benefits of a good laugh," says Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence, "Are most striking when it comes to solving problems that demand a creative solution."

One study found that people who had just watched a video of television bloopers were better at solving a puzzle often used by psychologists to test creative thinking. In the test, people are given a candle, matches and a box of tacks. They are asked to attach the candle to a corkboard wall so that it burns without dripping wax on the floor.

"Given the challenge, most people fall into 'functional fixedness." says Goleman. "They think about using the objects in the most conventional ways. But people who have just watched a funny film, compared to people who have watched a film about math or who have exercised, were more likely to see an alternative use for the box holding the tacks. They come up with the creative solution of tacking the box to the wall and using it as a candleholder."

A study done at San Diego State University followed students who thoroughly enjoyed themselves as they attended a series of lectures that contained wit, laughter, and anecdotes. These students achieved higher test scores than students who attended the same lectures without the humorous elements. Why? Because they were Enjoying The Process!

One time Ed was video taping me for one of my "Rizzo's Secret Minute To Success" segments. It was near the end of a really long day, my energy level was at rock bottom and it was getting increasingly difficult to concentrate. We were on the 27th take and my nerves were beginning to unravel. For some reason Ed finds it very amusing when I get frustrated. Just when I was one sentence away from finishing the shoot, Ed's dog Tanya came into the studio and decided to bark. For a moment there was silence. I shook my head in disgust and blurted, "That's it!""I quit!" I glanced over at Ed who was trying with all his might to refrain from laughing. "What the h~*! is so funny!" I said. Then he lost all control and went into hysteria. Wiping the tears from his eyes and trying to catch his breath, he said, "You should have seen the look on your face!" Then he mimicked my expression. There is truth to the phrase "Laughter is contagious;" because it didn't take long before I was infected. We both laughed for quite some time. What really drove us over the edge was when we reviewed the 27 takes or should I say Bloopers. It really was amusing to see myself getting frustrated and to hear myself swear.

I am certain that the laughter gave us the time out we needed to unwind and relax. It literally lifted our spirits and gave us enough energy to finish the project on the next take.

The fact is, and you can prove this to yourself at any time, if you're having fun at work everyone benefits. This holds true for every aspect of our lives. No matter who you are of what you are doing, whether you are teaching or learning, if you are enjoying the process the odds are in your favor that you'll achieve the outcome you desire.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

TURN THE OTHER CHEEK

In every experience you face, there is always a moment when all problems start out as merely seed possibilities. It is your responsibility to make sure that they don't blossom into emotional havoc. Every spiritually evolved person that I have read about alludes to a principle that states that there is always a peaceful part of us that we can turn to and react from when times are tough. Buddha, Confucius, Gandhi, Jesus, and many others have embraced this philosophy. Jesus said, "Turn the other cheek."

What does it mean to "turn the other cheek?" Well, first of all it doesn't mean that we should lie down and allow people who have offended us to continue to walk all over us. It doesn't mean that we should give life's circumstances permission to repeatedly take advantage of us. Whenever we find ourselves in turmoil over a situation or something someone has said or done, our turmoil is an indication that we have been in the wrong state of consciousness. When we react to whatever upsets us in the same state of mind we only compound the problem. "Turning the other cheek" is an opportunity for you to shift perspective and respond from the Higher part of yourself - the other side of you.

Awareness is the first step towards turning inner conflict around. The problem is that most of us go through the course of our lives unaware that our negative emotions and inner conflicts are sucking the energy right our of us. If you are not aware of what's happening to you, it's impossible to choose a better way to respond. When confronted with a challenge or problem there is always a point where you can respond to the situation from the level of human consciousness alone and risk letting the situation to consume you: or you can shift perspective "turn the other cheek" and remind yourself that you are also a spiritual being and respond from your Higher Self.

Let's say that you find yourself getting angry or jealous over a particular situation in your life: immediately say to yourself - "Where is this going to take me?" If you don't like the answer (and when you think of the repercussions, you will not) know that you have the power to change the outcome. There is always a potential of strength within you in times of weakness. That strength comes from your Higher Self. You are both human and divine. There is that in you that can never be hurt: that is always dignified and calm and that knows your unity with God. That's "the other cheek" - the side you turn to.

Whatever challenges you are facing, whatever your desires are, it all comes down to how you evaluate yourself in the situation. When a healthy outcome seems to be a human impossibility remember to "turn the other cheek" and respond from your Higher Self. If you do you will come to know that no one or no situation can take your good from you unless you allow it to happen. Your Higher Self always brings out the best in you when your world seems to have fallen apart at the seams.

Friday, June 5, 2009

IT'S ALL IN HOW YOU VIEW IT

Years ago, I was waiting for what I considered to be a very important phone call from my agent. He had left a message the night before stating that three shows that had been booked were now cancelled, and a television special I was in the running for, now looked bleak.

I immediately called him the next morning. His secretary said he was in a meeting. She assured me he would call me as soon as the meeting was over. Three hours went by, and still no call. I decided to call again. This time his secretary said he was out to lunch. I hung up the phone. I was very angry. All kinds of negative thoughts were going through my head. When thoughts go through my head - negative or positive - I have a tendency to repeat them out loud as I pace back and forth.
A few more hours went by and I had actually convinced myself that my agent didn't care about my needs or my career.

At that point I was overwhelmed by negativity and I started talking to the phone. Now, let me make this clear. I wasn't talking on the phone - I was talking to the phone. "Let me wait, will you? I don't deserve this kind of treatment! Who do you think you are?!" Even my dogs were looking at me as if to say, "Don't you have to pick it up first?"

Apparently my wife was observing the entire ordeal. Without missing a beat, she stepped in front of me, grabbed the phone, disconnected the wires from my desk and started yelling at the phone. "Yeah! Who do you think you are, treating my husband like that? Bad telephone! Bad telephone!" Then she took it and threw it in the garbage. I looked at her and said, "What are you doing?"
"Honey, I don't know what that phone did to upset you", she said, "but whatever it was, it will no longer stay in this house." Then she said, "Is the fax machine bothering you too? How about the computer? Because if they are, I won't tolerate it!" Then she literally yelled through every room in the house, "Now hear this! Can I have your attention please? All of the appliances, pieces of furniture, and all other inanimate objects! If you do anything to upset my husband, out you go! This is the law! I have spoken!!!" Then she quietly walked away. She burst back into my office, approached the phone that was in the garbage and said, "You're not so tough now are you?" She then turned to me, Kissed me on the cheek, patted my head, and said, "You see honey, you just have to learn how to take control!" And walked out of the room.

After watching this crazy woman running around the house, in a rampage, yelling at everything in sight, I noticed something was different. I was laughing. The question is - Why was I laughing at a situation that only seconds earlier had me emotionally distraught? The answer of course, is that my wife's crazy antics helped me pull myself away from this negative experience. She enabled me to see myself star in a scene from my own comedy movie. As a result, I realized I was sweating the small stuff and blowing the whole thing out of proportion and my emotional state made a complete turn around. Twenty minutes later, my agent called and I was able to listen to him and tell him my concerns, without the anger and frustrations.

It is truly amazing the power we can acquire when we allow ourselves the emotional luxury to pull ourselves away from our emotional scenes and give ourselves permission to view them from THE HUMOR PERSPECTIVE.

Monday, May 18, 2009

TAKE CONTROL

Years ago, in the middle of my comedy career, I was in New York City, driving a rental car that kept breaking down. It was ninety-eight degrees, the air conditioning didn't work, and sweat was pouring from my body. To make matters worse, I was in the world's biggest traffic jam and I was already forty-five minutes late for a very important audition.

I started to feel this snowball of negative emotions building up. I said to myself out loud, "What else could possibly go wrong?" I soon realized that was the wrong question to ask. Whenever you ask a question like that the universe has its own way of answering you.

I drove up to the tollbooth with beads of sweat running down my face. I tried really hard to control my emotions. I reached into my pocket to pay the toll - and realized that I had left my money at home. I sat there in total amazement at the series of events that were keeping me from my destination.

I started to take it personally. I actually believed that life was out to get me that day - and it was succeeding. For a moment I was in a daze. I was unaware of the cars beeping and people cursing at me. The guy in the tollbooth finally asked, "Can I help you?" I don't know what possessed me to say this, but my reply was, "Yeah, I'll have a couple of burgers, two fries, a coke, and get something for yourself there Sparky!" Apparently he was new to this country and he didn't understand my brand of humor. "I'm sorry" he said in an foreign accent, "but we don't have food here!" "Well," I replied nervously, "then you better get some because you're holding up traffic!" As I said this I noticed he was starting to laugh. And much to my surprise, so was I. The long line of drivers behind me, however, did not join in the laughter. There were horns honking and people cursing, "Come on, we gotta get moving!" "What the hell is the problem up there?" Then my new found friend stuck his head out from the tollbooth, motioned to the line of cars, and said, "Sorry we ran out of food. Try the next booth!"
By then we were hysterical over the absurdity of the situation. We were high-fiving each other and the coolest thing is that he let me go without paying. He said, "Thank you my friend. I am new to this country and this is my second day on the job. I really needed to laugh today!" I looked at him and said, "Believe me, so did I!" We shook hands, wished each other a great day, and I drove away from that tollbooth in a totally different mood.

As a result, I was able to plant positive thoughts in my head and think of constructive ways to deal with the important audition I had coming up. Guess what? I had a great audition! It's a good thing I did, because it led to the most important break in my career. That's how I got my Show Time television special, which paved the way to many other opportunities.

Think about this. What would have happened if I had gone to the audition in the mood that I was in before the tollbooth incident? I wouldn't have had a chance. Not in the mood I was in. In fact, I almost turned the car around to go home. Believe me, I tried everything to control the situation. After all, I read all of the books on positive thinking and positive affirmations. I thought I was an expert. I found out that day that positive thinking and reciting positive affirmations doesn't always work; because there are times when you are in such an overwhelming negative emotional state that your brain isn't going to buy the fact that everything is okay.

I mean, there I was, sitting behind the wheel of a stalling car without air conditioning, sweating in ninety-eight degrees, stuck in the world's biggest traffic jam, and late for my audition - reciting affirmations out loud over and over. "Everything is going as planned. I am in control of this situation. I am the radiating center of love and peace." Just then someone beeped their horn and I motioned to him with my fist and shouted, "Pick a number pal!" Not only was I frustrated and angry, because of my ordeal; I also felt totally inadequate, because I couldn't think positively and get control of my emotions.

When I started to laugh, however, I was able to think positively and visualize how I wanted my audition to go. Do you know why? When you start laughing at a stressful or highly emotional situation your brain is no longer concentrating on that negative thought. In fact, your brain is now somewhere else laughing at something ridiculous that you just did. Even if your brain goes back to the negative thought, it won't be as overpowering as it was before, because you have stopped the snowball effect. You have calmed down your nervous system to the point where you can think positively and take control.

That's the first time in my life I realized how important it was to be in control of my emotions and how laughter helped me take control.

You never know when opportunity is going to knock, and when it does, you have to be prepared. I can't tell you how many opportunities I've blown in my life, because I couldn't control my emotions. I can't tell you how many bridges I burned, because I made decisions when I was in an unhealthy state of mind.

It doesn't matter what you call it. You can call it karma, payback, or the laws of cause and effect. It doesn't matter. The fact is, the choices you make will determine the actions you take. The actions you take will determine who you are and where you go. This holds true on any level of your life, in all your personal and professional relationships.

Thursday, April 30, 2009

EMOTIONAL SELF-DEFENSE

One Saturday night, years ago, I was performing at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. I was backstage conversing with a fellow comedian named Steve. We were discussing what a trip it was to make people laugh and better yet, get paid for it. We agreed that the power of laughter has many medicinal purposes. I suggested that since we were responsible for making people laugh, that would make us "Humor Healing Technicians".

The conversation took on a more serious tone when Steve told me he was HIV positive. I asked how he was dealing with it. He said, "Watch me. I'm going on before you, Watch my set." I went to the back of the room and stood by some other comedians. The room was sold-out - standing room only. Steve was introduced. What transpired within the next twenty minutes totally blew my mind. His entire routine was on the HIV virus. His opening line was: "Hi, I'm Steve and I'm HIV positive. Don't be concerned, Naomi Judd was diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis C. The good news is that we are going to form a duo and call ourselves Sick and Tired."

Steve had an incredible ability to use humor as a tool. His HUMOR BEING glowed that night. His comic timing was exceptional; equaled only by the powerful message that was interwoven in and around the laughter. He even found humor in the many side effects that occurred from all the different medications he was taking. There were over five hundred people in that room and Steve had them all in the palm of his hand. He make them realize how healing laughter can be and how precious life truly is. I remember saying to another comedian, "This guy is making people laugh about one of the biggest challenges to face this planet."

Later that evening our conversation continued. I told Steve that what he did on stage took courage and was absolutely incredible. He smiled and said, "Thank you but, the really good news is that my white blood count went up phenomenally, ever since I chose to deal with this challenge with humor." I stood there with my mouth opened, searching for the proper words. Finally I said, "That's incredible."

Later in his career, Steve starred in his own HBO Special entitled, "HIV." He now has a following. There are people who are HIV positive who claim that Steve's humor and message helps them to embrace their challenges. One very important point must be made. Steve was not laughing at his challenge. We know there is nothing funny about the HIV virus. What he was doing, however, was allowing his HUMOR BEING to laugh off the fear that represented the challenge. Laughing in the face of fear eventually helped him confront it. When he confronted his fear he gradually began to understand where it was coming from and why it was controlling his life. Understanding always leads to compassion and compassion leads to the ultimate, unconditional love.

The most incredible accomplishment my friend Steve is making is that he is letting people know they have the power within themselves to view their own personal challenges from the same perspective. He reminds us that we all have a HUMOR BEING within us, but it's up to us whether we choose to use it or not.

Steve Rizzo's Point of Interest
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Monday, April 20, 2009

WAY BEYOND COMEDY

Quite often people come up to me and say, Steve (because that's my name), what's one of the main characteristics that separates a comedian from everyone else? I simply respond, that it's the way a comedian looks at life. A comedian views life and all of its obstacles, absurdities, tragedies, mistakes, incomprehensibility's, and embarrassing moments from a humorous perspective. When comedians look at life this way, they're not negating the seriousness of the subject matter, they're just looking at life from a different perspective - it's a healthier perspective - it's the humor perspective.

Let me share with you how I discovered the power of my Humor Being, which was one of the key factors that motivated me to leave stand-up comedy and move on to the speaking forum.

Following a comedy performance I would feel this surge of positive energy flow through my body. This energy surge gave me the confidence that I could achieve and accomplish anything I set my mind to do. Sometimes I would go back to my hotel room and write in my journal or write new material. It seemed that my creative juices flowed from me, into the pen, and onto the paper. Other times I would go out with a group of people, have wonderful conversations, laugh and have fun. The point is, whatever I did I was totally void of all negative thoughts. My problems - whatever they were at the time - somehow seemed manageable. I was living in the moment and enjoying every minute of it.

Initially I thought the reason for these power surges was because I was feeding my ego. You know, standing ovations, signing autographs, and people wanting to be around me. Although all of these things made me feel good, I knew there had to be more to it than that. Then one night after a comedy performance it hit me. It was at a time in my life when I was at an all-time low. I was either in or very close to a state of depression. All of the old fears and limiting beliefs that I thought I had conquered were back, haunting me again. It took everything I had to muster up enough energy and courage to step onto the stage that night. I remember thinking how ironic life is. There I was, ready to make a sold-out crowd of over five hundred people laugh, when what I really wanted to do was tell them how much life sucked. Much to my surprise, I was able to do both.

In spite of my problems - in fact it was because of my problems - I had one of the most spectacular performances of my career. I was on stage for more than two hours and the crowd wanted more. When I finally stepped off the stage the euphoria hit me with more intensity than ever before. I remember saying to myself, "This is way beyond comedy." I actually felt invincible. I felt a presence in me that radiated confidence and hope. I was in a complete state of love - and it was because I had allowed my Humor Being to take me there.

It was then that I discovered the real reason I got the power surge of positive energy. When I'm up on stage, I am in a totally different state of mind. I'm in a place where my problems and the world's problems are viewed in a different light.

That night I did more than my usual act. I let my Humor Being loose and allowed my higher self to take control. I talked about my world and how it was falling apart. I even talked about some painful experiences from my past. I literally laughed off my frustrations, pain, negative labels, and inner most fears. I vented my anger in a constructive way and the crowd loved it. It was like therapy, with a two major differences, I had fun and I didn't have to pay for it.

A few days after my performance, I began to reflect on what had transpired on stage that night. Without my knowledge the owner of the club had recorded my entire performance. When I viewed the tape, I was amazed at what I heard. It felt strange to listen to myself ramble on about my personal history in such a way. I was never afraid to speak my mind, but if I didn't know any better I would have thought I was possessed or that someone had injected me with some kind of serum that made me reveal parts of myself that were never touched before. I now know it was really my Humor Being exposing my fears for what they were. Through laughter I was able to understand that my negative labels and the fears that belonged to them didn't have to formulate my reality if I didn't want them to.

I also came to understand that the reason the people in the audience enjoyed themselves so much was because they were laughing at extensions of themselves. My stories and the humor behind them helped these people view their own personal problems from a healthier perspective. In other words, our Humor Beings were connected. We were feeding off of each other.

That's what humor does. It makes us realize that we are all the same in God's eyes. We have the same fears, pains, and heartaches. We just have different stories to tell. It doesn't matter who you are, what you do, or how much money you make. It doesn't matter if you're black or white, male or female, rich or poor, conservative or liberal, or homosexual or heterosexual. We all make mistakes. We all have our successes and failures. We all have good times and bad times. Humor just has a way of ironing out the wrinkles. Humor helps us embrace who we really are and gives us enough peace to live with it.

The next time you're being entertained by a comedian, listen to the underlying statement that is so often hidden within the laughter. Many comedians are venting their phobias and innermost fears. Some talk about the pain and hassles of divorce and their inability to stay in relationships. Many discuss their addictions to drugs, alcohol, gambling, and sex. Others find levity in their physical or mental handicaps. Some even describe the abuse they had to endure while growing up. As I said at the beginning of this story, they are not negating the seriousness of the subject matter. They are choosing to view their pain from a healthier perspective.

Friday, April 3, 2009

Change: What You Think Is What You Get!

Let me make this perfectly clear my friends, change is inevitable in the workplace today!!! Right now we are all experiencing very challenging times in regards to an uncertain and shaky economy. The result; companies are going out of business, people are getting laid off, and many are being forced to change their lifestyles. Regardless of the changes that take place in your life, you must know without a doubt that it's not the change in and of itself that determines your fate, but rather it's the thoughts you have about the change that really makes the difference. So, stop whining about it and think about what you're thinking! In fact, your thoughts are the key factor as to whether you embrace the change and move forward with optimism or allow the changes to propel you in to a state of hopelessness.

I often speak to groups on how to embrace change in the workplace. Many times, within each audience the members pretty much have the same educational background, the same job description, and the same or similar responsibilities. Everyone is experiencing the changes that are taking place and yet I know for a fact even after they've heard my program that some, will move forward with enthusiasm and positive energy. They will also achieve great success and enjoy themselves during the process. Others will merely go through the motions because they have to, they will complain along the way and have great difficulty making their lives work. And some will become emotionally mentally paralyzed and unable to escape the grasp of fear.

Why is this so? Why is it that some will move forward and even become empowered as a result of the change; while others will have great difficulty to the point of feeling victimized? I'll tell you why. It's because of what each individual is thinking and saying to themselves.

Some will instantly and continually ask themselves empowering questions and declare empowering statements that will lead to brighter alternatives, such as:

What makes this situation positive?
What are my assets?
This change will force me to learn and that can only make me stronger.
I will make the best of it and enjoy myself along the way.
This is an opportunity for me to grow.


Others will fall prey to the repetitious voice in their heads that never shuts up; that voice is the flow of compulsive fear, based thoughts that usually come from past experiences that never worked out. Here we go again:

Why is this happening to me?
Why can't I ever get a break?
I will never be able to handle this.
What's the use, no one cares anyway.


When your thoughts are expressed in words, you increase their energy and intensify the effect they have in your life.

The act of positive self talk will not only strengthen your character, but also boost your spirit. It is beneficial for you to ask yourself what good can come out of even the most challenging situation no matter how bleak it may seem. Our current economic situation can be viewed as an opportunity to grow if we so choose. It will be difficult, if not impossible for you to seek opportunity if you are consumed with thoughts of fear, anger, and self doubt.

Asking yourself empowering questions and declaring empowering statements help you to rebuild on a foundation of hope. Remember, it's not the change that takes place in your life that causes you to be consumed by fear. Rather, it's how you perceive the change that makes the difference. If what you think is what you get, then you need to create a thinking system that will lead you to take action that will be advantageous in spite of the situation.

Your perception of yourself and this changing world around you are key factors to your success and happiness. If you think you are weak, inadequate or feel victimized then the energy you send out will mirror those thoughts. It will be difficult to succeed and be happy when harboring such thoughts.

If you believe you are powerful and view life as a never-ending learning experience filled with choices - you - will formulate within yourself a sense of hope. Then the energy you send out will mirror those thoughts, enabling you to lead a more fulfilling life.

HIGH POINTS TO REMEMBER

* Regardless of the changes that take place in your life you must
know without a doubt that it's not the change in and of itself that
determines your fate, but rather it's the thoughts you have
about the change that really makes the difference.

* If What You Think Is What You Get, then you need to create a thinking system that will lead you to take action that
will be advantageous in spite of the situation.

* The act of positive self talk will not only strengthen your
character, but also your boost your spirit!

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

LAUGHTER & EXTREME ADVERSITY

Years ago, I attended the wake and funeral services of a friend who was killed in a car crash. He was loved by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. I have been to many wakes, viewings, funeral services and memorials throughout the course of my life, but there was something special about this one in particular. An awareness came over me that caused me to view the losses in my life from a different perspective.
When the funeral service was over, a group of us met at a relatives house. As you can imagine, people were wiping away tears and consoling one another. Some were understandably having difficulty accepting the unfair twist of fate that life had thrust upon him. We all were.
From across the room, I overheard an acquaintance telling part of a story that I was familiar with about our friend when he was in high school. I noticed that a few people were laughing along with it. Then someone else joined in on the conversation and offered an anecdote about the dearly departed's affinity for football. Before long, everyone in the room was laughing and reminiscing about the good times they had. In the midst of all the laughter, I had a strange, uplifting feeling come to me. This feeling can best be described as a smile from within. I realized I was no longer grieving over my friend.
My energy immediately shifted and I was temporarily delivered from my pain. At that moment, I think we all felt a special connection to him. In fact, his wife said, "You know I miss him and always will, but right now, I feel like a part of him is with us and always will be." Then she paused and said, "It's as if he's saying to all of us, It's okay. I'm okay. Everything is as it should be and I will always be with you."
Of course, we all started crying again, but this time, they were tears of hope. At that given moment his death was not the point of focus. The only thing that mattered was the powerful feeling we were all experiencing. We were celebrating and embracing the spirit of our love for him. It was our ability to laugh and reminisce about the good times that ignited that powerful sense of his spirit. In such a short time, our Humor Beings took us from a place of pain and uncertainty to a place of inner peace and hope. Laughter made us realize that, throughout our life journey there are no goodbyes, only good memories. The spirit moves on, and we all move on, in turn, in life. We all felt the smile from within that day. I believe laughter derives from the spirit. It has a magical way of breaking down barriers that make us feel like we are alone and reminds us that somehow we are all connected. We all have fear and pain to deal with. It's part of life, period. Laughter has a way, though of smoothing out the wrinkles and gives us enough hope and peace to move on.
Suffering may not be unavoidable, but just plain suffering can be avoided. Finding the laughter in between the tough times is essential to living a happier life. It's your Humor Being, urging you and reminding you that life still goes on, regardless of whether you like the way it goes or not. There will be good times and bad times, but in the end, all you'll really leave behind are memories. So you might as well attempt to enjoy them all!!!

Thursday, March 5, 2009

UNLEASH THE POWER OF YOUR "HUMOR BEING"

We're living in a world that's moving incredibly fast. On top of our personal problems and everyday pressures, we read the newspapers and watch the evening newscasts to learn that corporations are being forced to downsize and massive technological advancements in the workplace are causing people to drastically change their lives. Cell phones, Blackberry's, e-mails, text messages, and even micro-communication applications like Twitter are clogging our minds with an overwhelming amount of information, leaving us with little or no time to relax, unwind, and focus our attention on the big picture.
To compound this, political unrest, crime, disease, prejudice, and violence are running rampant, as they have done for decades on end. The divorce rate is at an all time high and war seems to be the only answer to remedy differences between nations. It's really no wonder why so many of us have to be medicated in some way or another in order to cope with the madness we have created!
We all need something to reduce the tension, the fast pace that we are subjected to everyday. I honestly believe that our ability to occasionally laugh off the major and minor tensions in our lives is crucial in order for us to survive the insanity. I'm not suggesting, I'm telling you that we have to take time out each day and laugh. Why do you think that people go to the comedy clubs? Because they want to laugh. Why do they want laugh? The same reason they have sex, it simply makes them feel good. A physiological and mental reaction takes place when you laugh. Laughter charges your inner battery and helps you to cope with the tough times. Even if you are having a really bad day, when you laugh life doesn't seem that bad after all.
This is why I urge you to unleash the power of your Humor Being on a daily basis. Right now you're probably wondering, "Great Steve, but what is a "Humor Being?" That, I can explain. Let me start off by saying that I believe that everyone on this planet is born with a Humor Being within them. Unfortunately some people live their entire lives without ever knowing they have the power to change their attitude by laughing, let alone how to tap into it and make it work for them.
Your Humor Being is one facet of your higher self. It's the part of you that brings out the best when times get tough. What your Humor Being can give you more than anything else is emotional stability and peace of mind.
I want you to take a few moments right now and think of the challenges you are faced with every day, personally and professionally. Now I want you to focus on a particular problem you may have at home or at work: health issues, financial problems, divorce, job security, or anything that is a current cause for concern. Pay particular attention to the emotions you are feeling as a result, such as worry, anxiety, anger or fear and notice how difficult it is not to take your problems from home to work and vice-a-versa. Not only is it important to know you have a Humor Being within you, it is essential that you use it everyday throughout your entire life. Your Humor Being will save you from despair time and time again, and before you know it, you won't need saving quite as often. Invoking your Humor Being as a habit will turn you into a better person with a brighter outlook. We go through our lives and we allow unfortunate situations, unlucky circumstances, and foul people to suck the energy right out of us, because we don't know that we have the tools that can help us cope well or even heal ourselves after bad encounters. One such tool in your Humor Being. Those who live in harmony with their Humor Being always see the brighter alternative to a negative situation. They embrace change more easily and make conscious choices to enjoy themselves during the process. Your natural state is that of joy and inner peace. It's your responsibility to stay connected to that state each and every day throughout your entire life. It's your Humor Being's job to help you stay connected.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Speak Words that Empower You

Thoughts are one thing. Sometimes, you can even convince yourself that you're not being very negative, especially when the situation really calls for some good old fashioned angst. Words are an entirely different and often times more powerful animal. We need to be especially careful about the words we speak out loud when things aren't going the way we want. Yes, it's true that what you think is what you get, but what you say out loud in the midst of troubling times has even greater impact on how long you stay in those situations and how deeply you are affected by the situation. If you're always describing your problems with defeatist language, don't be surprised if you live in constant turmoil and you feel like you are constantly saying, "I never get a break", "I'm not lucky", and "Good things never happen to me". What do you expect? These words are not only self defeating in the moment, but they keep you from seeing possibilities to a brighter outcome or finding solutions to problems.
The inevitability that your words will affect your attitude and thus your situation, is spiritual law that always works to perfection, whether what you are saying is positive or negative. The moment you open up your mouth to say something, you ignite the beginning stages that lead to enormous creative power. You can create your own reality with your words, ultimately building high walls that keep you trapped in or bridges that can help you escape your situation gracefully. Again, the choice is yours, but do understand this: You will never be able to see the escape from a hole of negativity by voicing more of the same. Either wallow in it or give yourself a fighting chance to get out.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

What It Means To Be Positive

Anyone can tell you that one key to living a happy, successful life is having a positive attitude, especially during adverse times. I know that sometimes there just isn't justification for all the unfortunate things that happen to us. But I also know that we all have what it takes to deal with misfortune when it occurs. This is what acquiring a positive attitude is all about. It's about fortifying yourself for a fight with a very real enemy: Your own negativity.
I know this is much easier-said-than-done. I know that sometimes it seems impossible to stand tall and be positive when it feels like your world is falling apart around you. Yet this is something that can be achieved, and it's an attitude that's worth acquiring and keeping sharp. Who knows? Your life may depend on it some day.
The word "positive" seems to frustrate a lot of people. I hear people say, "How do you expect me to be positive when nothing in my life is working?" Or, "It's easy for you to be positive and feel blessed. You didn't lose someone you love."
Maybe we should consider a more realistic interpretation of what it means to be positive. Being positive isn't always a Disney movie. I have learned that being positive isn't always about feeling good. Oddly, it's healthy to feel bad sometimes. That's a good thing. That means you're not a robot. Are you with me? And being positive doesn't mean we never make mistakes. True positivism is knowing that we learn from making these mistakes and move forward with an optimism that we are better people for having made them, richer, deeper, and more resilient than before. Being positive doesn't mean that we should always smile and enjoy every moment of our lives. Give me a break! It's knowing that sometimes it's okay to cry, mourn, and feel sad. You don't always have to be in control of your emotions. Sometimes it's okay to get angry and lose your temper. Don't worry, your positivity license won't be revoked.
People who are generally positive have problems just like everyone else. What separates the chronically positive from everyone else is that they know that their problems are simply part of the process of life. After, and sometimes during, a crisis positive people respond to a habitual mechanism that enables them to pay attention to parts of their lives that don't make them want to spontaneously burst into tears in the middles of the produce aisle. They find a way to shift their perspective and hold on to only the things that bring them joy. This is the quality that keeps them from feeling victimized. Pain is unavoidable, but to a person with a positive attitude, that's all it is: Pain, simple, temporary and uncompounded by doubt and comparisons to past experience.
Positive people instinctively know that adversity is necessary in order for them to grow. We are here on Earth to experience, learn, grow, and become the person we are meant to become. It can't be stressed enough that the filter through which you view experience ultimately determines who you become. How we choose to experience what happens to us, be it good or bad, will determine what we learn. What we learn determines how we grow, and this continued growth is what shapes who and what we become. If we can comprehend this, it will help free us from feeling victimized when times are tough, and just maybe help you to compare a challenging situation with a pop quiz in Life: 101, rather than , say, the apocalypse.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

What You Think Is What You Get

I find it absolutely amazing that some people seem to have every advantage within their reach and still manage to destroy their lives and sabotage their success and happiness. Then there are those who seem to have every disadvantage thrown their way and choose to move forward and refuse to go down. They take what appears to be the greatest of challenges and somehow manage to make their lives work and enjoy the process.
It has always been my experience that those who choose the latter alternative somehow, consciously or unconsciously, direct their thoughts to create an empowering belief system that eventually steers them to a brighter outcome.
If there is one thing I would love for you to walk away with more that anything else after reading this article, it would be for you to understand that you have the power to experience any challenge in your life from a healthier perspective. Notice I didn't say some challenges, I said any challenge. How you experience your challenges are by the thoughts that you continually program into your brain day in and day out.
Contrary to what most people believe, it's not the situation, it's not the event, and it's not the circumstance in and of themselves that determine your quality of life. Rather it's the way you think about life's hard times that will minimize or maximize the impact they have on you. Each and every thought that you have can be appraised as to whether it strengthens you or weakens you.
People who are successful and attract wealth into their lives consciously or unconsciously think successful thoughts. Whether they are aware of it or not, they create predominant thoughts of wealth and abundance on a consistent basis. They don't allow negative thoughts of lack and failure to blossom and take over their minds. You can see evidence of this in the people you come in contact with everyday.
Haven't you noticed that those who are always talking about their ailments are always ill. Those who speak about prosperity are prosperous. Those who always talk about how wonderful life is are always happy and so on.
There is no getting away from the fact that the more dominant your thoughts on any subject in your life, the more you solidify your life experience. Whatever you habitually think about or focus on the most will appear in your life.
The Bible says, "As a man thinketh so shall he be". Many people refer to this as the Law of Attraction. Some have come to know it as "The Secret". I'm from New York and I say "What you think is what you get". (Leave it to a New Yorker to tell it like it is!) It really doesn't matter what you call it. All you need to know is that this spiritual law does not know good from bad, right from wrong, or true from false. It does not judge and it doesn't excuse negative thinking. It simply works in accordance to what you're thinking. Like I said, "What you think is what you get". Get it! You need to understand that this powerful law can either make you or break you.
The great poet Milton said, "The mind is its own place and it can make a heaven of hell or a hell of heaven". What a powerful statement and how true it is. The mind is its own place, but it's important that you understand that your thoughts feed your mind. Those very thoughts are the determining factors that make a heaven of hell or a hell of heaven in your life.