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We’re all resistant to change - even when we know that we need a major upheaval. Fear of the unknown can take over us - fear that things might actually get worse, not better, and that the price for change might be just too big.

But the fear holding us back is usually no more than an imaginary barrier that we’ve envisioned in our mind. To knock down this barrier, we need to massively outweigh the negative obstacles we’ve created, and replace them with even bigger reasons to move our lives forward.

Look at this mathematical formula for change: D x V + F is gerater than R …namely… Dissatisfaction x Vision + First Steps is greater than Resistance to Change.

Our reasons for doing something have to become bigger than our resistance to change. When we’re thinking about making changes, it’s usually because we’ve become fed up with putting up with the circumstances in our current life. Whether it’s our career, relationships, job, lack of money - whatever we’re unhappy about, we have to break down the problem and make it a motivating force for action. In truth, we need to get down and dirty and really be honest with ourselves; life can be much more than the scraps we’re getting, and we don’t need to miss out any longer.

The power of this dissatisfaction can be multiplied by envisioning how good things will be once we’ve made the changes. To mentally focus on a life of plenty is a great feeling - we’re in control of our destiny because we took responsibility for change. Our resolve becomes stronger the more we can visualise our success.

Our minds can not hold positive and negative thoughts at the same time. So by actively focusing on positive thoughts, and simultaneously pushing out the negative ones, we strengthen our will, and weaken the power those downbeat feelings had over us.

Once we’re prepared mentally, we can start making the first moves towards change. Little, encouraging steps build confidence, and we begin to create a positive feedback loop which leads us to more action and then more confidence and self-esteem. Building on these first moves progressively overcomes and breaks down our hesitancy to change.

W N Murray, a member of the Scottish Himalayan Expedition wrote:

“…Until one is committed there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: That truth is, the moment one commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events occur once the decision is made, raising in ones favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way.”

Similarly Goethe said, “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.”

‘It’s easy to think that those who achieve in life are lucky, that somehow things were simpler for them - they had the breaks. The truth is we make our own luck, by deciding when to make a move, and then committing wholeheartedly to its execution’. This acknowledgement of the different ways we respond when there’s a need for change comes from a book written in our own time. “Who Moved My Cheese” by acclaimed author Spencer Johnson says it all.

(C) 2009. Go to LearningLolly.com for clear info on Security Essentials for Computer Users and Security Essentials for Computer Users Training.

CCNA is the way to go for training in Cisco. This will enable you to work on the maintenance and installation of routers and network switches. The internet is made up of many routers, and large companies that have various regional departments use them to allow their networks of computers to communicate.

It’s vital that you already know a good deal about how computer networks operate and function, because computer networks are joined to routers. If not, the chances are you’ll fall behind. Better to look for a course covering the basics in networking (maybe the CompTIA Network+, possibly with A+ as well) and then do a CCNA course. Look for a training provider that can offer this as a career package.

We’d recommend a bespoke training program that will take you through a specific training path before starting your Cisco CCNA course skills.

Typically, a new trainee will not know to ask about something that can make a profound difference to their results - how their company divides up the training materials, and into what particular chunks.

Students often think it makes sense (with most training taking 1-3 years to gain full certified status,) that a training provider will issue a single section at a time, as you pass each element. However:

It’s not unusual for trainees to realise that their providers ’standard’ path of training is not what they would prefer. It’s often the case that a different order of study is more expedient. Perhaps you don’t make it in the allotted time?

Put simply, the best solution is to have a copy of their prescribed order of study, but to receive all the materials up-front. Everything is then in your possession in the event you don’t complete everything inside of their required time-scales.

Look at the points below carefully if you think that over-used sales technique about examination guarantees seems like a good idea:

In this day and age, we tend to be a little more ‘marketing-savvy’ - and generally we know that for sure it is something we’re paying for - it’s not because they’re so generous they want to give something away!

If you want to qualify first ‘go’, then you should avoid exam guarantees and pay when entering exams, give it the priority it deserves and be ready for the task.

Sit the exam as locally as possible and hold on to your money and pay for the exam when you take it.

Buying a course that includes payments for exams (and interest charges if you’re borrowing money) is a false economy. Resist being talked into filling the training company’s account with your hard-earned cash just to give them a good cash-flow! A lot bank on the fact that you will never make it to exams - so they get to keep the extra funds.

In addition to this, you should consider what an ‘exam guarantee’ really means. Many training companies won’t pay for re-takes until you can prove to them you’re ready to pass.

Prometric and VUE exams are approximately 112 pounds in Great Britain. Why pay exorbitant charges for ‘Exam Guarantees’ (often hidden in the cost) - when a quality course, support and study, commitment and preparing with good quality mock and practice exams is what will really guarantee success.

Be on the lookout that any exams that you’re considering are recognised by industry and are current. The ‘in-house’ certifications provided by many companies are often meaningless.

Unless your qualification is issued by a big-hitter like Microsoft, Adobe, CompTIA or Cisco, then chances are it won’t be commercially viable - as no-one will have heard of it.

Being at the forefront of revolutionary new technology really is electrifying. You personally play your part in impacting progress around the world.

There are people who believe that the revolution in technology we’ve had over recent years is slowing down. This couldn’t be more wrong. There are huge changes to come, and most especially the internet is going to dominate how we conduct our lives.

And don’t forget that on average, the income of a person in the IT market in the United Kingdom is a lot greater than the national average salary, therefore you will probably gain much more in the IT sector, than you’d get in most other industries.

The search for properly certified IT professionals is assured for many years to come, due to the continuous increase in the technology industry and the vast shortage that remains.

(C) Jason Kendall. Visit LearningLolly.com for excellent career tips on Cisco Training and Cisco CCNA Training.

What can a student looking for Microsoft certified training expect to find today? Patently, training companies ought to have a number of courses that cover the portfolio of Microsoft certified training paths.

Maybe you’d choose to have a chat about jobs with a training advisor - and if you haven’t come to a decision, then have some guidance on what sort of job would be right for you, based on your personality and ability level.

Make sure your training is matched to your ability level and skill set. A reputable training company will always guarantee that your training program is appropriate for the job you want to get.

Only consider training paths that move onto industry accepted certifications. There’s an endless list of trainers suggesting ‘in-house’ certificates that are essentially useless when it comes to finding a job.

All the major IT organisations such as Microsoft, Cisco, Adobe or CompTIA have globally recognised proficiency courses. Major-league companies like these will ensure your employability.

IT has become one of the most electrifying and revolutionary industries that you could be a part of. To be dealing with leading-edge technology is to do your bit in the gigantic changes affecting everyone who lives in the 21st century.

It’s a common misapprehension that the revolution in technology we have experienced is slowing down. Nothing could be further from the truth. Terrific advances are ahead of us, and the internet significantly will become an increasingly dominant part of our lives.

And keep in mind that on average, the income of a person in the IT industry in Great Britain is a lot better than in the rest of the economy, therefore you’ll most likely gain a lot more as an IT specialist, than you’d expect to earn elsewhere.

Excitingly, there’s a lot more room for IT industry expansion across Britain. The market continues to develop enormously, and we don’t have anywhere near enough qualified skilled IT professionals to fill current job vacancies, so it’s most unlikely that it will even slow down for years to come.

It’s usual for students to get confused with a single courseware aspect which is often not even considered: The method used to ’segment’ the courseware before being packaged off through the post.

Normally, you’ll enrol on a course staged over 2 or 3 years and get posted one section at a time - from one exam to the next. This may seem sensible until you think about these factors:

What could you expect if you didn’t actually complete every module at the speed they required? Often the prescribed exam order doesn’t work as well as an alternative path could be.

Truth be told, the very best answer is to obtain their recommendation on the best possible order of study, but make sure you have all of your learning modules right from the beginning. You’re then in possession of everything should you not complete it within their ideal time-table.

Your training program should always include the most up to date Microsoft (or Cisco, CompTIA etc.) authorised exam preparation and simulation materials.

Due to the fact that a lot of IT examining boards are American, it’s essential to understand how exam questions will be phrased and formatted. It’s no use simply going through the right questions - they need to be in the proper exam format.

Always request some practice exams so you’ll be able to verify your knowledge whenever you need to. Simulations of exams will help to boost your attitude - so you’re much more at ease with the real thing.

(C) Jason Kendall. Pop to LearningLolly.com for quality advice on SQL Server Courses and SQL Course.

Because you’re doing your research on MCSE courses, you’ll probably be in 1 of 2 situations: You might be wondering about a dynamic move to get into the IT field, and all evidence points to a huge demand for qualified people. Alternatively you could already be in IT - and you want to enhance your CV with a qualification such as MCSE.

During your research, you’ll come across companies that lower their out-goings by failing to provide the latest version from Microsoft. Avoid these companies as you’ll experience challenges at exam time. If you’re learning from the wrong version, it is going to be hugely difficult to get qualified.

Training colleges should be completely focused on finding the right path for their students. Mentoring education is equally about helping people to work out which direction to go in, as much as giving them help to get there.

Some commercial training providers will only provide support to you inside of office hours (typically 9am-6pm) and sometimes a little earlier or later; It’s rare to find someone who offers late evening or full weekend cover.

Don’t buy training that only supports trainees through a message system when it’s outside of usual working hours. Colleges will always try to hide the importance of this issue. The simple fact of the matter is - you need support when you need support - not at times when they find it cheaper to provide it.

The best training colleges provide a web-based round-the-clock system pulling in several support offices across the globe. You will have a single, easy-to-use interface that seamlessly selects the best facility available at any time of day or night: Support when you need it.

Never make do with less than this. Direct-access round-the-clock support is the only way to go when it comes to IT training. Maybe burning the midnight-oil is not your thing; often though, we’re working at the time when most support is available.

It can be a nerve-racking task, but finding your first role in IT is often eased by training colleges, through a Job Placement Assistance facility. Sometimes, there is more emphasis than is necessary on this service, for it is actually not that hard for any motivated and trained individual to find work in the IT industry - because there’s a great need for skilled employees.

However, what is relevant is to have CV and Interview advice and support though; also we would encourage any student to bring their CV up to date as soon as they start a course - don’t put it off until you’ve graduated or passed any exams.

You’ll often find that you will get your first position whilst still on the course (sometimes when you’ve only just got going). If your CV doesn’t say what you’re learning - or it’s not getting in front of interviewers, then you’re not even going to be known about!

In many cases, a specialist independent regional recruitment consultant or service (who will, of course, be keen to place you to receive their commission) should get better results than any division of a training company. In addition, they will no doubt know the local area and commercial needs.

To bottom line it, as long as you put the same commitment into getting a position as into studying, you won’t have any problems. Some men and women curiously spend hundreds of hours on their training course and then just stop once they’ve passed their exams and would appear to think that businesses will just discover them.

The age-old way of teaching, involving piles of reference textbooks, is usually pretty hard going. If this sounds like you, check out study materials that are on-screen and interactive.

Many studies have proved that long term memory is improved when all our senses are involved, and we take action to use what we’ve learned.

Programs are now found in the form of CD and DVD ROM’s, where everything is taught on your PC. Video streaming means you will be able to see the instructor presenting exactly how it’s all done, and then practice yourself - with interactive lab sessions.

You must ensure that you see the type of training provided by the company you’re considering. Be sure that they contain full motion videos of instructors demonstrating the topic with lab’s to practice the skills in.

It’s usually bad advice to opt for on-line only training. Because of the variable quality and reliability of the ISP (internet service provider) market, it makes sense to have disc based courseware (On CD or DVD).

It’s essential to have accredited simulation materials and an exam preparation system as part of your training package.

As the majority of examining boards for IT tend to be American, you’ll need to be used to the correct phraseology. It’s no use just understanding random questions - they must be in an exam format that exactly replicates the real thing.

Ensure that you request some practice exams in order to test your understanding whenever you need to. Simulations of exams will help to boost your attitude - then the real thing isn’t quite as scary.

Just because we want to lose weight doesn’t mean that we want to be ostracized from society. This is particularly an issue if we happen to be the family chef; nibbling our own lightweight morsels whilst the aroma of ‘real food’ wafts under our nostrils! This can be frustrating, so let’s look at how we can integrate our weight loss program into regular family meals.

Whatever we serve up, when we’re aiming to lose weight the first thing we can address is our portion size. Starting a meal with a full plate is very gratifying, so why not buy yourself a smaller plate? Don’t rush to be the first to start eating. Take your time and chew your food well. This will leave you feeling more satiated, and prevent you from always finishing before everyone else.

Basically you can often eat the same food as your family is eating, but cut down on the amount of rice, pasta, potatoes and fatty meat. Eat more veg to avoid getting too hungry. Just don’t be tempted to fill up on bread rolls! If you have a sweet tooth, take care not to go overboard. A portion of stewed apple from the crumble is one thing, but treacle sponge and custard is quite another.

On the other hand, you can make slimmer’s meals for everyone. No-one need suspect they’re eating a low-cal meals with some of the recipes you can use. Use lemon juice, garlic and fresh herbs for a really scrummy pasta dish. Tinned tomatoes are a great base for the sauce, and no oil is needed if you stir in a little low fat creme fraiche before serving.

At the supermarket or store, always choose low fat meat and dairy products. After a while, your family will get used to these healthier products and enjoy them just as much. Breast of chicken or turkey is a good choice, especially if you eat it without the skin. Boil or steam potatoes rather than frying. Maris Piper is one variety that has a good waxy consistency. There’s no need to add high calorie spreads or butter then.

Be careful when you buy cereals as some have a really high sugar content. Again, breakfast bars might look like healthy food, but most are highly sweet and calorific. The sugar content in a lot of drinks is also far too high for dieters. If you love your drinks, stick to sugar free varieties. If you like juice, dilute it with water and add ice!

When socialising, alcohol really increases our calorific intake. Iced tea can make a refreshing change and is a good thirst quencher. Serve your drinks in wine glasses so they still feel more sophisticated.

Clearly, we can’t keep consuming the same things and expect to drop the weight. Although the odd bit of fine-tuning can work wonders to help things along.