Why You Should Read The Legal Disclaimer - the only true picture

The internet abounds with people claiming to have special programs, unique strategies and foolproof methods for making easy money on the internet.

I suppose there must be some profit in being an internet snake oil sales person because there is a never ending tsunami of get rich quick schemes that choke both my in box and my junk folder - I guess my Jewish friend was right: 'Nail two sticks together and some schmuck will buy it!'

There is one foolproof (dare I use that word?) method to gaining some perspective on the wild schemes floated daily past your eyes: read the LEGAL DISCLAIMER - it hopefully will be the slap in the face - or wake up call you might need if you are considering taking a flyer at one of the imaginary carrots being dangled before your salivating palate.

Here is a good example:  

Legal Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to accurately represent our program and its potential. Any claims made of actual earnings or examples of actual results can be verified upon request. The testimonials and examples used are exceptional results, don't apply to the average attendee/purchaser and are not intended to represent or guarantee that anyone will achieve the same or similar results. Each individual's success depends on his or her background, dedication, desire, and motivation. As with any business endeavor, there is an inherent risk of loss of capital and there is no guarantee that you will earn any money. 

Ok, so let's analyze this piece of legal weasel work. To anybody with even the slightest bit of reading comprehension, it should be clear that there are some very strong key words here:

-The testimonials and examples used are exceptional results...
-...don't apply to the average attendee/purchaser
-...not intended to represent or guarantee that anyone will achieve the same or similar results
 -...there is no guarantee that you will earn any money.

For those with poor reading skills let's take a minute to analyze what is stated:

First off, the amazing money making results used to entice you are EXCEPTIONAL - dictionary definition = forming an exception or rare instance; unusual; extraordinary: which should be interpreted in the vernacular to mean 'no f***ing way will you make money'.

Second. Sorry if I am insulting you...but...if you are thinking of pursuing some wildly overstated method of earning easy money, then you, without a doubt, are an average person...i.e.: there is definitely no f***ing way you are going to make money.

Third.  This one is real simple: most likely no one will achieve the stated results.

And finally...there is a guarantee that you will lose money investing in this harebrained idea.

So, this begs the question: surely all the people who part with their hard earned money to get rich quick are not all stupid. Well, the answer to this deep question is, "Yes". 

So why, you ask, do un-stupid people fall for these gimmicks?

Well, you can choose one, more than one, or all of the reasons below:

1. Thinking they are above average - it doesn't apply to them
2. It only costs a few (hundred?) bucks 
3. They were a victim of Jabba the Hutt (a master manipulator)
4. They kept it a secret so no one would know
5. The snake oil salesperson seemed so down-to-earth and genuine
6. Nothin' ventured - nothin' gained
7. They were longing to be duped
8. They think riches are the way to happiness
9. A sucker is born every minute 
10. Despite what they thought in #1 - they really are gullible.
11. They do not read disclaimers.


So, knowing that we all (yes, even myself) are susceptible to the Jabba Hutts of this world, it is imperative
that the next time you begin to feel the pull of easy money, you immediately go into pg. dn. mode and read the Legal Disclaimer...if that does not help, denial after the fact is the most accepted form of obtaining absolution.

Good Luck!







 

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The tragedy of events that led to the organization of the Underground Railroad in America and Canada in the 18th and 19th centuries forced exceptional individuals to rise above and transcend the everyday horrors of slavery. For more information on the Underground Railway and some of the exceptional who made it possible, click HERE.

Parent's Guide To Solving Homework Problems - Part 12

SUMMARY

Solving your child’s homework issues requires commitment and time from both you and your child. 

Remember to determine if the problem is pervasive or not.

Make sure the homework problem is not just you demanding unreasonable goals be met.

Pinpoint the problem by talking with your child.

Create a description of the problem and then consult with the teacher.

Discuss and prepare an action plan.

FOLLOW THROUGH!!!

Motivate your child preferably without many incentives or consequences.

In closing it is worth mentioning that most children emulate the behaviours and attitudes of their parents. Keep this in mind when you are finding it hard to remain cool and reasonable with your child’s homework struggles.

Parent's Guide To Solving Homework Problems - Part 11

MOTIVATING AT HOME

The debate continues whether it is better to punish or provide incentives to get children to work more efficiently and effectively.

You can find arguments for and against each method. I believe neither is correct – it is really what works with your child. 

When talking with your child about how to motivate them to overcome their homework problem, it is important to first review/talk about the problem. Make sure you both are on the same page when it comes to understanding exactly what the homework problem is.

Once you have established the problem, it is then time to talk about what if anything you can do to help motivate them. Be careful here for it could be a nasty trap for you.

Try to lay some ground work by first talking about how you are there to help and provide guidance (i.e. you are there to ensure they stay on track and follow any plan agreed upon). Try to avoid any actual rewards or punishments – rather talk about how, with your guidance and their commitment, the problem could be resolved without resorting to either.

Talk about what specific expectations you have and try to resolve that neither punishment nor rewards will be used. If you cannot get to this point, then determine with your child what method would help them the best.

At this point it is time to put things in writing so no one forgets what was agreed upon – in other words – a contract.

The contract should clearly indicate the expectations and rewards/consequences.

When it is signed off – post it – as a constant reminder of what everyone’s obligations are.

A good contract should indicate:

1. Scheduled time & place

2. Elimination of all distractions

3. Getting homework to and from school

4. Quality, quantity and neatness

5. Attitude – no whining, no procrastination, no forgetting, no relying on parents to do the homework

6. Preparedness – have all materials, books, pens, etc. required to complete the assignments properly.

7. Rewards/ consequences – if any were decided upon

By taking the time to develop a good understanding with your child of what the problem is and how you both will go about correcting it you empower your child to gain control over their learning.

This method also provides immediate feedback to the parent on whether the child is responsibly fulfilling his obligations on a nightly basis.

A final note on rewards and consequences:

- Specific praise is a powerful reward (e.g.: “Hey! I am glad to see you remembered to put your backpack by the door!”) – also praise your child in front of others – it is a great tonic.

- Rewards need not be elaborate (e.g.: having a friend over for a pajama party)

- Natural consequences are good (e.g.:  let child face a poor grade for homework incomplete)

- If you must give a consequence make it immediate – long lasting consequences have little effect over time – avoid too hash a consequence – focus on the positive.

part 12 to follow...