15 hard things to do, but could change your life forever

I read this article the other day and found it to be compelling...yet truthful...and DIFFICULT. However, I think most of us can try a few of these...



What makes someone uncomfortable depends on the person, but what's universally true is the value of recognizing boundaries and continually pushing them.

As Quora user Joos Meyer explains in response to the question, "What uncomfortable things such as cold showers can improve your life?" pushing your comfort zone is the key to self-improvement.

"I think the best methodology is to every day or week set a task or find a situation that makes you slightly uncomfortable. Do that thing. This will incorporate the experience into your model of 'normality' and hence expand your 'comfort zone,'" he writes.

Here are some uncomfortable things that other Quora users say have helped them grow:

1. Question everything

"The most uncomfortable thing one can do is to question everything that is taken for granted and seek answers," writes Malli Gurram. "Try to see the other side of the norm."

2. Be 100% honest

Being the most honest you've ever been with someone in your life will be one of the most uncomfortable things you can do, Ryan Brown says, but it could also be the most valuable.

To do this, he suggests writing a list of all the people to whom you have something — good or bad — to say, writing down the honest feelings you need to convey to them in a letter, handing the person the letter, and writing down what happened and how the experience affected you and the other person.

"If you're being really honest, each letter you write should make you quite emotional as you are writing it," Brown writes. "That is how you know you have tapped into your actual emotions and feelings — that it actually means something to you."

"Don't forget what you have learned from the experience," he suggests. "Let it be with you forever."

3. Meditate

Oftentimes, slowing down and finding inner calm can be especially difficult for those of us who are constantly on the go and thinking of the next things we need to do.

But as Nathan Hershey points out, the benefits can include enhancing your cognitive capacity, emotional intelligence, and overall self-discipline.

4. Wake up extremely early

Ekin Öcalan loves to wake up before sunrise because it provides the perfect study-and-work environment. Waking at 5 a.m., while everyone else sleeps, is the perfect, albeit challenging, way to begin the day in silence, he writes.

5. Do something creative

"Many people say they want to be creative. Then they go home and binge watch TV episodes on Netflix while drinking red wine," Mark Toole writes.

While fear of rejection and failure are powerful demotivators, having a creative outlet can do wonders for our bodies and minds. What's more, "keeping your work to yourself also guarantees that nobody else will ever love it," Toole notes.

6. Watch your pennies

Keep track of every penny you spend, from auto repairs and life insurance to coffee and french fries, for several months, suggests Bruce A McIntyre.

And try paying for everything you can with cash. "If you have to reach in your wallet and pull out cash, you will often think twice about how much you need something."

You'd be surprised how much debt you can pay off when you literally watch your pennies.

7. Volunteer

Gurram suggests volunteering for a nonprofit or doing selfless deeds. Volunteering can make you feel like you're part of something big, Gurram says, using volunteer experience with TEDx as an example.

"It was such an overwhelming feeling I had on the big day, being part of the community," Gurram says.

8. Track what you eat

Keeping track of all the food you eat and all the exercise you do in a day can be challenging, but Tina Marshall says using her MyFitnessPal app helped her see the harm she was doing to her body.

"I didn't realize how little of some nutrients I was getting and how much sugar and fat I was getting daily until I started to do this regularly," she writes.

9. Eat only nutritious food

After you track your food, start eating only what is truly nutritious — Doug Whitney says this will change your life forever.

"The short answer here is to prepare your own food, eat organic as much as possible — yes, it's expensive, but it's cheaper than the medical bills and lost performance — focus on lean meats and veggies, avoid grains (they're disastrous for most of us), and when you do eat something that isn't good for you, notice the difference in how you feel. This is key!"

He says this will be uncomfortable for a number of reasons: It's hard; it's socially limiting; it can be more expensive if you are used to eating off the dollar menu; it's not as tasty when you start, and it takes more time.

But he says the outcome is 100% worth the effort. "Being a weird health nut and outperforming everyone else is so much more fun than blending in — and that's not just athletically. It's mentally as well."

10. Practice public speaking

It may be scary to think about, but you never know when you may be called upon to speak in public. Practice, while daunting, is the key to improving your communication skills.

Gurram recommends joining a nearby Toastmasters group or an improv group in your city: "It's scary as hell until you realize that everyone around you feels the same."

11. Talk to someone new

"See someone you're interested in? Go talk to them," Toole suggests. "The worst that can happen is an epically catastrophic rejection, which gives you something funny to talk about. That and increased confidence in your abilities next time."

12. Leave your phone in your pocket

"How many times have you checked your phone while reading this? The last time you were at a restaurant or bar, how many times did you pull out your phone to look something up?" Toole asks.

There's something to be said of taking a digital detox and allowing our minds to wander. Rather than reaching for our phones when we're bored, research suggests that leaning into boredom can help make us more productive, goal-oriented, and creative.

Plus, it's just good manners when you're in social settings.

13. Pick just one thing to master at a time

Your approach to self-betterment might be trying as many things as possible and seeing what works. But Rob Hanna says using the opposite tactic, though uncomfortable, is key.

"Intention is the key to mastery," Hanna writes. He explains this requires calling your shots and hitting them.

"The problem with most improvement seekers in life is that they really don't know what they're looking for, and then they keep casting about capriciously for the next new thing."

If you're constantly changing interests, he says, you're never going to discover your own internal progress. "So pick one thing and become progressively committed to mastering it. It doesn't matter what it is, anything will do, as long as you do."

14. Accomplish an almost impossible goal

The most uncomfortable thing you can do, according to Rizwan Aseem, is to set and achieve a goal that's harder than something you've ever done before.

To do that, he suggests you think about a thing you're comfortable doing every day and amplify it until you get to a point where you become really scared of doing it. If you run a mile every day, the idea of running seven might terrify you. Set this as your one-year goal.

"The hardest part is to actually go out there and take the actions steps that will help you achieve this goal," he writes.

"You will have to use all your mental and physical strength to actually get yourself to achieve this goal. But here's the thing: Something very cool happens in your mind, your physiology, your internal makeup when you actually do this. You become invincible. You will be able to set any goal for yourself and then achieve it."

15. Seek help

"I think the most uncomfortable yet healthy thing you can do is go to therapy," writes Sam Ham. "There, those defenses you've been utilizing for years, or perhaps decades, may be exposed, and it can be incredibly difficult to realize that you (and those you love or hate) are not necessarily who you thought."

As Business Insider previously reported, roughly one in every five Americans, or about 43 million people, suffers from mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. About 60% of us received no treatment in the past. With cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), people start to change their thoughts, which in turn can cause behavior changes.

"Learning that you, and those around you, are not so black and white and absolute can be, at the very least, uncomfortable and disorienting. And practicing awareness, acceptance, and forgiveness can be a rigorous and exhausting chore," Ham writes. "But damn, it's so worth it."

9 things to avoid when negotiating a salary

I came across this article the other day. It gives some helpful tips about negotiating your salary. 



You’re 96% sure that you’re ready to schedule a meeting with your boss to ask for a raise. Or perhaps you’re nearing the end of the job interview process and an offer is in sight. However, if you’re like me, you have definitely put your foot in your mouth a time or two saying the wrong thing at the absolute worst moment. Doh!

Don’t mess up. Don’t mess up. No matter how many times you rehearse what to say, there’s always that risk of fumbling right at the five-yard line. Instead of panicking, get prepared.

To coach us along in the salary negotiation process, we turned to Josh Doody, author of Fearless Salary Negotiation. “A salary negotiation is a collaboration, and a key ingredient of a successful collaboration is good communication,” says Doody. “It’s important to be very clear with what you communicate to avoid ambiguity, which could complicate things and slow the negotiation process.”

Instead of Doody simply sharing the things you should say, he’s here to warn you about the potential negotiation landmines to avoid when angling for the salary you deserve. Here are nine things to never say in a salary negotiation:

1. “I’M CURRENTLY MAKING . . .”

The most common question recruiters will ask a candidate is something like, “So where are you right now in terms of salary, and what are you looking for if you make this move?” Don’t fall for it.

Instead of asking for “more” salary or “more” vacation, this is your time to get specific.
“I call this the ‘dreaded salary question,’ and it’s tricky because it usually comes up early in the interview process, and most candidates don’t think of it as part of a salary negotiation even though it is,” says Doody.

“Answering this question by disclosing numbers can make it very difficult to negotiate effectively later on because it can box the candidate in. Once they disclose current or desired salary, the offers they get are very likely to be tied to those numbers. That can be very expensive if the company might have offered them a much higher salary than they disclosed.”

2. “MY DESIRED SALARY IS . . .”

Don’t disclose your current or desired salary! “Recovering from this mistake can be tricky and each situation is unique. But one way to untether from those original numbers is to review the benefits package for deficiencies,” says Doody. “If the health insurance offering, paid vacation, target bonus, or other aspects of the benefits package are underwhelming, the candidate can use those as reasons to ask for a higher salary to compensate.”

Instead, try something like:

I’m not comfortable sharing my current salary. I would prefer to focus on the value I can add to this company rather than what I’m paid at my current job. I don’t have a specific number in mind for a desired salary, and you know better than I do what value my skillset and experience could bring to your company. I want this move to be a big step forward for me in terms of both responsibility and compensation.

3. “SORRY”

According to Doody, “negotiating is uncomfortable, and our natural tendency is to try to smooth the edges on a difficult conversation. Saying sorry could signal to the recruiter or hiring manager that you might be willing to back down, and that could be expensive. Don’t apologize for negotiating.”

4. “NO”

“You want to continuously improve your situation throughout the negotiation and you do that by avoiding negative language and focusing on positive language. Instead of “No, that doesn’t work for me” (two negative words), you can say, “I would be more comfortable with . . .” (a more positive expression).

“Saying sorry could signal to the recruiter or hiring manager that you might be willing to back down . . . Don’t apologize for negotiating.”

Negative words slow things down and may put up walls that make collaboration difficult. Using only positive words is difficult at first, but you’ll get better with practice.”

5. “YES”

While this may sound like the exact word to use when speaking to an HR recruiter, Doody insists it should be used with caution. “You’ll often get a job offer that seems really appealing, and it might be far more than you expected. Your instinct in that case might be to just accept the offer because it’s so good.”

But is it too good?

“It’s possible you underestimated your value in this situation. Instead of “Yes,” formulate a counteroffer to see how much you can improve it. The negotiation should end with the company saying “Yes” to you. Once they say “Yes” to you, or you run out of things to ask for, then you are finished negotiating.”

6. “LATER”

As in, “I can deal with that after I start.” Procrastinators, this one’s for you. “Sometimes it’s easier to avoid uncomfortable parts of a negotiation by deferring those parts of the conversation until after you’re hired. That can be a very expensive mistake because you won’t have the same latitude to negotiate and improve your position once you’re in the door. Push through the discomfort and get the best possible result now.”

7. “TRY”

In expressions like, “Can we try . . .?” “’try’ is a passive word that leaves a lot of wiggle room, and you don’t want that,” insists Doody. “It’s easy for someone to say—honestly or not—”We’ll try…” and reply with, “We tried and it just didn’t work out.” Don’t ask them to “try” to do something. Instead, use more positive language like “I would be more comfortable with…”.”

8. “MORE”

While this word seems counter intuitive because you are negotiating to get more, it’s a word that is too general for a successful negotiation. Instead of asking for “more” salary or “more” vacation, this is your time to get specific.

“Don’t leave things to the imagination once you’re negotiating. Instead of “Could you budge on the salary?” say, ‘I would be more comfortable with a base salary of $105,000.’”

9. “WANT”

Lastly, the word “want” can tank negotiations. Using it can undercut the entire premise of your argument that you deserve to be paid more and you deserve a more competitive salary. Go into a negotiation with facts and figures, making a compelling case. Start with printing out your results using a tool like Glassdoor’s personal salary estimator, Know Your Worth. See what you base salary should be and see what the industry norms are.

“You could talk about what you want, which just isn’t all that important. Or you could talk about what the company wants, which is not as potent as talking about what the company needs, which are the most important thing,” adds Doody. “Focus on the company’s needs and how you can help meet those needs so they can easily see your value and work to compensate you for it.”

Get your money. It's not about what you are worth...it's about what you can negotiate. 

15 questions to ask at the end of every interview...

I came across this article on the WSJ the other day. Hopefully, this can help you.



It's important to remember that every interview is a two-way street.


You should be assessing the employer just as much as they're assessing you because you both need to walk away convinced that the job would be a great fit.


So when the tables are turned and the interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions for me?" take advantage of this opportunity. It's the best way to determine if you'd be happy working for this employer, and whether your goals are aligned with theirs.


"The very process of asking questions completely changes the dynamic of the interview and the hiring manager's perception of you," says Teri Hockett, chief executive of What's For Work?, a career site for women. "Asking questions also gives you the opportunity to discover details that you might not have otherwise unveiled."


Amy Hoover, president of TalentZoo, says there's another reason you should always prepare questions. "It's expected — and if you don't ask at least two questions, you will appear disinterested, or worse, less intelligent and engaged than a prospective employer would like." You should have at least four questions prepared, though, in case your original two are answered through the course of the interview.


But, Hoover says, don't just ask questions for the sake of it. To actually benefit from them, you'll need to think carefully about what you want to ask.


"Your questions can, in fact, make or break an interview," she explains. "If they're not thoughtful, or if you ask something that has already been addressed, this can hurt you way more than it can help. Asking smart, engaging questions is imperative."


Luckily, there are plenty of smart ones to pick from.


Here are 15 questions you should always ask in a job interview — if they weren't already answered — to help you get a better sense of the role and the company, and to leave the interview with a positive, lasting impression:


1. Who do you think would be the ideal candidate for this position, and how do I compare?

Hoover recommends this question because it's a quick way to figure out whether your skills align with what the company is currently looking for. If they don't match up, then you know to walk away instead of wasting time pursuing the wrong position for yourself, she says.


2. Who would I be reporting to? Are those three people on the same team or on different teams? What's the pecking order?

It's important to ask about the pecking order of a company in case you have several bosses.If you're going to be working for several people, you need to know "the lay of the internal land," she says, or if you're going to be over several people, then you probably want to get to know them before accepting the position.


3. How has this position evolved?

Basically, this question just lets you know whether this job is a dead end or a stepping-stone.


4. How would you describe the company's culture?

Hoover says this question gives you a broad view on the corporate philosophy of a company and on whether it prioritizes employee happiness.

5. Who do you consider your major competitors? How are you better?

This question is not for the faint of heart, but it shows that you are already thinking about how you can help the company rise to meet some of its bigger goals, says Peter Harrison, CEO of Snagajob.


6. Beyond the hard skills required to successfully perform this job, what soft skills would serve the company and position best?

Knowing what skills the company thinks are important will give you more insight into its culture and its management values, Hoover says, so you can evaluate whether you would fit in.

7. Do you have any hesitations about my qualifications?

While this question puts you in a vulnerable position, it shows that you are confident enough to openly bring up and discuss your weaknesses with your potential employer.

8. What do you like most about working for this company?

Hoover says this question is important because it lets you "create a sense of camaraderie" with the interviewer because "interviewers — like anyone — usually like to talk about themselves and especially things they know well." Plus, this question gives you a chance to get an insider's view on the best parts about working for this particular company, she says.

9. Can you give me example of how I would collaborate with my manager?

Knowing how managers use their employees is important so you can decide whether they are the type of boss that will let you use your strengths to help the company succeed.

10. Can you tell me what steps need to be completed before your company can generate an offer?

"Any opportunity to learn the timeline for a hire is crucial information for you," Hoover advises.

Asking about an "offer" rather than a "decision" will give you a better sense of the timeline because "decision" is a broad term, while an "offer" refers to the point when they're ready to hand over the contract.

11. How would you score the company on living up to its core values? What’s the one thing you’re working to improve on?

Harrison says this is a respectful way to ask about shortcomings within the company — which you should definitely be aware of before joining a company. As a bonus, he says it shows that you are being proactive in wanting to understand more about the internal workings of the company before joining it.

12. What are the challenges of this position?

If the interviewer says, "There aren't any," you should proceed with caution.

13. What have past employees done to succeed in this position?

The main point of this question is to get your interviewer to reveal how the company measures success.

14. If you were to hire me, what might I expect in a typical day?

Obviously this shows your eagerness about the position, Harrison says, but it also gives you a better idea about what the job will be like on a daily basis so you can decide whether you really want to pursue it. "A frank conversation about position expectations and responsibilities will ensure not only that this is a job you want, but also one that you have the skills to be successful in," he advises.

15. What type of employee tends to succeed here? What qualities are the most important for doing well and advancing at the firm?

This question shows the interviewer that you care about your future at the company, and it will also help you decide if you're a good fit for the position, Oliver writes. "Once the interviewer tells you what she's looking for in a candidate, picture that person in your mind's eye," she says. "She or he should look a lot like you."

PODCAST : ask 12kyle...

Sometimes when you have a burning question…you need to ask someone who will tell you what you NEED to hear…not what you WANT to hear. It’s good to seek the advice of someone who knows what they are talking about and will be impartial in their response.

That’s what host 12kyle does on this edition of The 12kyle Podcast. A few months ago, we gave our readers a chance to open up to us about any problems or issues that they were having and we would address them on the podcast. On this edition, 12kyle fields a wide range of questions from choosing a major in college, dating and relationship problems, giving money to a church…and MUCH MORE! Listen to the podcast and let us know what you think. 

LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE to the 12kyle Podcast

iTunes (https://itun.es/us/RZVM_.c) 

Stitcher (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/12radio/the-12kyle-podcast) 

Soundcloud (www.soundcloud.com/twelve-kyle)

Overcast FM (https://overcast.fm/itunes1067121899/the-12kyle-podcast)

Pocket Casts (http://pca.st/wmVA)

Facebook (www.facebook.com/twelvekyle)

Instagram (instagram.com/12kylepodcast)

Twitter (@12kyle) 

Twitter (@12kylepodcast)

Blogger (http://the12planet.blogspot.com)

LISTEN BELOW...

best advice about MONEY

Here is a pretty good article that I found the other day. You may find it useful...

What secrets about managing money do the rich know that the average person doesn't?

Below are some strategies that helped the rich get rich:

1. Track spending.

Know where your money is going. Look at your bank and credit-card statements every month. You'll uncover certain expenses for things you're not even using, such as club memberships, subscriptions, and automatic charges for services you've never used. Often these automated charges occur after you enroll in some "free" promotion, where the free part expires after a promotional period.

2. Periodically audit expenses.

Many expenses can change over time — like insurance costs. They can go up or down over time. Make sure you are paying the lowest insurance rates for homeowners, auto, and life insurance. Check your health insurance. You could be paying for dependents who left the nest, are on their own, and have coverage through their employer. Cable and internet costs can increase without you being aware of it. Calling your cable or internet provider to secure the lowest fees available should be an annual process.

Periodically shop cellphone plans. Increased competition in the cellphone industry is driving down monthly rates. Make sure you aren't paying more than you have to.

3. Purchase good quality used cars.

New cars lose value as soon as they come off the lot. Buying good quality used cars allows you to take advantage of this loss in value anomaly prevalent in the auto industry. Forty-four percent of the rich in my study purchased good quality used cars.

Typically these are cars coming off a lease. They may be two or three years old. At 125,000 miles, most cars will require some annual repairs. Expect to incur about $1,500 a year in repair costs when you hold on to cars beyond this 125,000-mileage mark.

That is still significantly less than you'd spend on a loan or lease for a new car.

4. Use coupons.

Even the wealthy in my study engaged in this money-savings habit. Thirty percent of the rich used coupons to buy food. Why pay more than you have to on groceries or other expenses?

5. Keep your housing costs below 30% of your monthly net pay.

Contrary to what you've been led to believe, most of the rich don't live in McMansions. Sixty-four percent of the rich in my study live in modest homes.

6. Bargain shop.

Far too many make spontaneous purchases, paying more than they otherwise would. That's a Poverty Habit. Shopping for bargains and taking advantage of sales events is a Rich Habit.

7. Take advantage of credit-card reward dollars.

Many credit cards have rewards programs attached to them. Typically, these rewards programs generate reward dollars that you can use at participating vendors. For example, the American Express reward program gives you about .88% back on every dollar you spend using an American Express credit card.

One of the participating vendors with American Express is Barnes and Noble, and 50,000 American Express Rewards Dollars translates into $500 in Barnes and Noble gift cards. You can buy 20 $25 Barnes and Noble gift cards and give them out as gifts for occasions like birthdays and holidays, and it'll cost you nothing.

8. Establish savings goals.

The rich make a habit of allocating their savings into different buckets, or categories. In order to do this, you need to establish an overall amount of savings you're willing to set aside each month.

For example, if you decide to set aside 10% of your monthly income, you might allocate 5% into your retirement bucket, 2% into your specific expense bucket, 1.5% into your unexpected expense bucket, and 1.5% into your cyclical expense bucket.

9. Automate the savings process.

This is where the rubber meets the road: implementation. Automatically direct each of the above savings amounts into each bucket's separate account via automatic withdrawal from your net pay or from your bank account. Automating your savings forces you to live below your means because you save first and spend what's left.

Money management is a process. Accumulating wealth is a process. It's all one big process this thing we call financial success.

But if you don't have a process or adopt good money habits, like the rich in my study, you will never be able to save. It just won't happen.

When you develop good money habits, you feel like you are finally in control of your life. It's empowering and it will increase your wealth over time. Keep in mind that it took most of the wealthy in my study 32 years to become rich. Accumulating wealth takes time and discipline.

Overcoming Family Financial Habits

While doing some reading on finances, I came across this article. I think you might get something from it.


Whether you realize it or not, your parents likely had a major influence on your financial habits. Studies, including the recently published
"Habit Formation and Learning in Young Children," show that the ideas about money you pick up during childhood tend to stick with you for life, whether you grow up just like mom and dad or have made choices in reaction to them.

"Most of our beliefs and habits take shape well before the age of 12, and that includes money habits," says Keith Whitaker, Senior Family Dynamics Consultant with Abbot Downing. "Most people may not want to believe that, but they know in their heart that it's true."

If your parents didn't talk about money, for example, you also probably feel uncomfortable when the subject comes up. If your family was always trying to keep up with the Joneses, you may equate money with success, and you may feel like you can never have enough.

If you strongly disagreed with your parents' financial habits, you may have reacted by choosing to take the opposite approach. But that too can be harmful when taken to extremes. For example, some people who grew up poor, or whose parents were extreme penny-pinchers, hated feeling deprived, so they may spoil their own children by giving them too much.

• Potential harmful money habits you may have picked up from your parents include:
• Overspending to show love
• Extreme penny-pinching
• Believing that money is the cause of world problems
• Equating money with success and happiness
• Associating money with personal conflict
• Reluctance to talk about money

Whatever your money baggage, fortunately, you aren't stuck with it forever. "It is possible to change," Whitaker says, "but it takes a lot of work." He recommends these five steps:

1. Reflect on your behaviors and feelings about money. Think back to your childhood and your parents' attitudes about money. Were they constantly fighting over money? Did they overspend and go into debt? Or were they extremely frugal? Try to recognize both the positive and negative lessons you learned from your parents, and how they affected your beliefs and feelings about money. "The first step in changing bad financial habits is becoming aware of your deep-seated beliefs about money and where they come from," Whitaker says.
2. Focus forward and don't blame. While it's important to recognize your parents' influence, it's equally important not to assign blame, Whitaker says. "Blaming others won't help you move forward," he says. "Try to empathize with your parents and accept that they probably did the best they could do and, like all of us, they had their limitations. Show yourself grace, too."
3. Clarify your goals. After you identify any bad financial habits that come from your upbringing, make a conscious decision to change. "Ask yourself, 'What are some other ways I can act?'" Whitaker says. If you tend to spoil your spouse and your children with monetary gifts, commit to spending time and having experiences with them instead. "Maybe you suddenly realize that you've been spending all this money on your child, but he's acting like a spoiled brat," Whitaker says. "It may be time to stop giving materially and start giving emotionally."
4. Break big changes into small steps.  Rather than trying to change all at once, commit to taking a series of small steps in the right direction, Whitaker advises. If you're reluctant to create a budget with your spouse because your parents fought about money, start with one small piece of a budget. "Maybe you can do a better job of tracking your spending on just one type of expense, or saving for something specific," Whitaker says. "Instead of taking it all on at once, take on a manageable piece." If sharing specific numbers — such as the size of your estate — makes you queasy, you can start by talking about your estate in a more general way, without the dollar signs.
5. Get help. Connect with people who can help you talk through your money issues and help hold you accountable. Friends, professional colleagues, counselors, or members of shared interest groups can help reinforce your desired behaviors and give constructive, positive feedback. And, of course, your relationship manager is probably your best resource on making good financial decisions. "As hard as it is, you can do something about your beliefs and your behaviors," Whitaker says. "I've seen it happen."

Should College Athletes Get Paid?

We never seem to agree on this topic. In our new video, we revisit our podcast debate about whether college athletes should be paid or not. Listen to our viewpoints and let us know what you think

Watch, Subscribe, and Share our videos...

www.youtube.com/deadendsports

ask 12kyle

Check out the 12 RADIO SHOW. The 12 RADIO SHOW is the most innovative and interactive show on Blog Talk Radio. Tune in tonight at 9pm EST as the host, 12kyle, informs and entertains! Don't just listen to the show...be a part of the show and participate in the interactive chat room...or call in to speak with 12kyle and his co-hosts.

Have you ever sought the opinion (advice) of others?

You've had issues...problems...or questions about dating, love, relationships, sex...or all of the above. If so, who did you talk to?

On this episode of the 12 Radio Show...we'll take calls to offer advice on these things and anything else. You have something on your chest??? Ask 12kyle

We've also received dozens of emails from people across the country. We'll read these emails (see above) on air and offer advice. The show will be co-hosted by Krishna!

TOPIC - ask 12kyle

WHEN - tonight 9pm-11pm EST

WHERE - You can listen online (www.blogtalkradio.com/12kyle) or via phone (347)215-7162. Press #1 if you want to speak to the host. You can also send tweets if you want to have your questions answered or comments to @12kyle

Follow the show on twitter: @12RadioShow. Also follow the host 12kyle on twitter: @12kyle

8 Reasons You Should Turn Down That Job Offer

here's a very interesting article that I found at salary.com

Just Because You Got the Offer Doesn't Mean You Should Accept It

The good news is you got the job. Which, in this still-reeling economy, is quite an accomplishment. But the bad news is you're worried you might be settling for a position that isn't the right fit for you. So where do you go from here?

Look, the honest truth is there are times when you'll have to take any job you can get, even if you know it's a bad fit. Maybe your house is about to be foreclosed on, you can't make rent, or you have a family depending on you for income. We completely understand there will be times when finding ANY job is a priority over the PERFECT job.

But then there's the flip side of that coin, which is taking a job just for the sake of having a job even if you have the luxury of holding out for something better. Maybe you're frustrated because your job search has taken far longer than expected, or you graduated college and you're the last of your friends to find steady employment. Those situations aren't ideal, but neither is taking a "filler" job that won't really benefit your career.

To help guide you, here are some very valid reasons to reject a job offer.

8. When It's a Dead-End, Not a Detour

Sometimes we travel a broken career road, but that's not all bad. Many success stories include colorful chapters where the hero bravely works his way up to corporate glory. But what about the sad dramas where the heroine ends up pausing her career indefinitely in a so-so job that moves her off-target and out-of-sight of her hopes and dreams?

Consider: Will the circuitous route still allow some sort of progress in your chosen direction? Or will the filler job effectively block the path to your desired destination? The best filler job will still allow you to grow skills and experiences that are resume-worthy, and easily applied at your next position. The worst ones can spiral you into a black hole from which you gain no additional skills or experience, essentially trapping you with no hope of escape.

7. When It Costs You Opportunities

Most jobs are found through networking. A job organizing office supplies in a backroom or basement will offer you few opportunities to rub elbows with anyone save the occasional lost soul seeking a restroom. On the other hand, a retail job selling business apparel might give you the inside scoop on unposted job listings. Remember, the clear majority of today’s employment opportunities are unadvertised.

Consider: If volunteer work or community service puts you in touch with a growing number of business contacts, it might be worth fueling that momentum rather than cutting yourself off with a short-term, bill-paying position. Obviously, if you’re in debt and behind on your bills, you may not have the luxury of timing. However, be certain that wherever you spend your 9 to 5, you remain in the vicinity of connections to your chosen career goals.

6. When It Hurts Your Professional Reputation

On the other hand, while assembling sandwiches in a company cafeteria will likely put you in contact with key decision-makers (even CEOs have to eat lunch), do you want to be remembered for a cheddar cheese mishap when you finally land that interview?

Consider: It’s one thing to wait tables as a new college graduate in search of that elusive first job. However, a displaced IT manager refilling iced teas is doing nothing to enhance that image of technical prowess. There is nothing wrong with honest labor. But aim for labor that won’t contradict your status and reputation as a professional. To wit, waiting tables would be consistent with a hospitality manager looking for her next gig. Web design work might be a better fit for the on-hold IT manager. 

5. When It's Soul-Crushing

How tough is your spirit? Can you retain essential hope and focus while working in the potential filler job? Some people own the sort of resilience that will not be trampled by janitorial duties or irate customers at a fast food establishment. Others have a tendency to link identity to work and their self-worth will deflate like a leaky balloon.

Consider: Know thyself. The purpose of a temporary job is to equip you -- financially and possibly experientially -- for the real deal. If a filler job is likely to grind down your self-image, perhaps you need to look a little longer. Find employment that will pay your bills without costing you your confidence and breaking your spirit.

4. When It Goes Against Your Morals & Values

The nature of your temporary work shouldn't make you feel like you're compromising who you are or your beliefs. Obviously you should avoid anything illegal, but beyond that black and white is a lot of grey. For instance, a vegetarian meat-packer, an environmentalist working for big oil, or a personal privacy advocate making telemarketing calls. These are scenarios that will pit self against self.

Consider: You will be ineffective and personally miserable in any position that requires you to ignore core values. Selling something that is personally disagreeable is a blow to your integrity. How will you sell the professionalism of someone willing to turn a blind eye to his own convictions?

3. When It Costs You Your Family

A great paycheck that takes you out-of-town -- or out of family life by nature of the sheer number of hours required -- may be a risk to your family connections. Yes, getting behind on your mortgage payment could strain family loyalties as well, but be sure you and your spouse (or significant other) are on the same page regarding expectations.

Consider: How "temporary" will temporary be? Are there other options that might provide a better balance to the financial vs. family stability equation? An indefinitely timed strain on familial relationships (and connections to your support system) should be approached with caution. Do you work to live or live to work? Just remember, no one on a deathbed ever wished they spent more time at work.

2. When the Money Isn't Good Enough

Sometimes, it really is all about the money.

Most of us work to live. We have mortgages, rent, utilities, car payments, daycare and more to pay for, and we're working to foot the bills. So if you're presented with a job that doesn't even come close to making all the ends meet, it might be worth holding out for something more lucrative if that's feasible.

Consider: Be clear about pay structures and costs of employment -- especially for commission-based work -- before grabbing a temporary position. The word "temporary" can ascribe less value to the details tied to these jobs. These details should matter, however, because you are making a trade of your job search time. Be sure it’s a worthwhile exchange.

1. When the Money Is TOO Good

Whoosh. That’s the soul-sucking sound of a lucrative paycheck pulling talent from a long-term goal. It happens. The pay is so good you stay on a little longer. And a little longer after that. Next thing you know you're completely hooked on your fat paycheck, 10 years have gone by, and you’ve forgotten you used to have other dreams.

Consider: If you’re a "work to live" personality with a goal of retirement, this may not be a deal-breaker. But if your goals are for professional achievement, be wary of temporary jobs that could lull you into career complacency. "Umm, I got busy and forgot" isn’t going to sit well with a bored, stagnated version of yourself, wondering about the untapped potential of your youth.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

"Any" job is often better than no job, but not necessarily. Measure "filler" jobs against your overall career plan. Be wary of any side gig that holds the power to hamstring you into a permanent sideline position.

Our career paths are rarely straight lines. Sometimes the route to a coveted sales position goes through the mailroom. And there are times that outside pressures and financial considerations force us to pause professional progress completely. These challenges are surmountable and may even provide valuable perspective, as long as hitting the pause button doesn't cause our motivation to idle as well.

Know What You're Worth

Regardless of whether or not you actually accept the job you're offered, the important thing is that you're prepared to negotiate salary if you do want it. The first thing you should do is research, so you're able to come to the table armed with the knowledge of what your job is worth. 

3 principles

There are three principles of business that I think are key to ANY successful business

1. Treat people with dignity and respect.

This goes a long way. It doesn't matter if you are dealing with the Vice President of your company or the kid in the mail room. Treat people well. They will always remember it and appreciate it.

2. Never be too "big" to do something.

Far too often...people will say "I'm not doing that. It's not in my job description. Let somebody else to it." If I'm the CEO and I see that the trash needs to be taken out of the building, then I'll do it. People respect you even more when they see you go the extra mile.

3. Make work fun

Nobody works for free. Most people spend 8 hrs a day at work. Help people ENJOY their time at work. You've gotta be there...so you might as well have fun while you're there.

I've worked in corporate America for 15 yrs. I've learned a lot and seen a lot, too. One day...sooner than later...I'll transition to run my own company.

I'll be taking these principles with me.

Marriage 501...12 RADIO SHOW

Check out the 12 RADIO SHOW. The 12 RADIO SHOW is the most innovative and interactive show on Blog Talk Radio. Tune in tonight at 9pm EST as the host, 12kyle, informs and entertains! 

Don't just listen to the show...be a part of the show and participate in the interactive chat room...or call in to speak with 12kyle and his co-hosts. 

TOPIC - Marriage 501 

co-hosted by Krishna

Join us as we discuss the good, bad, funny, and ugly of marriage. Don't miss it!

(347)215-7162

www.blogtalkradio.com/12kyle

Krishna

the price of fame

I didn't ask for this. 

None of it. 

Don't get me wrong...I'm thankful for it ALL but I never asked for any of it. The road of life has many twists and turns. I'm glad that it turned in the right direction. But I didn't ask for this.

Things have changed overnight. One day you go from being a regular Joe on the street to being somebody that the whole world knows. It happened fast. Maybe too fast. I can't be regular anymore. I don't know if I'll ever get used to this "fishbowl life". Who wants to live a life where ever move that they make is tracked? I'm constantly watched and talked about it. Do I like the attention? I do...sometimes. But I miss my privacy.

I don't trust women. When I meet women, I am on the defensive. I don't know if she wants me or if she wants what I can give her. Some just want sex. Others want to have your kid so that they can sit on their ass and live off you. Naw man. That's not me and that's not how I get down. I enjoy the company of women but I keep them from getting too close. I've never been good at long term relationships so maybe it's best that I stay that way. And kids are not going to happen right now. I have a hard enough time with my dog. 

Most of the people that I meet have some type of agenda. They want something from you. It's usually money. I went from being dead broke to being a multi millionaire very fast. I've learned to tell people "no". Does that make me an asshole? I don't think so. I like to spend money but I'm trying to be smart about it. It seems like everybody has their hands in my pocket, though. My lawyers, agents, accountants, publicists...etc. I really feel like I was born to do what I do. God gave me these gifts to give to the world. I was put here to entertain. But I didn't know it'd be like this.

One day I want to...go to dinner without being photographed...go to the movies in the middle of the day...go to the club and sit in the VIP section without the stares from the haters...chill and not have my cell phone blowing up. One day I want to walk down the street and people not recognize me. 

I didn't ask for any of it. I grow tired it. Most people would chop off their arm to be in my shoes. I never thought I'd have to give up ME for this. I'm thankful but I'm tired. Really tired.

The price of fame...

10 toughest interview questions

So you got the phone call that you've been waiting on.

You have an interview with that company that you have been DYING to work for.

Are you prepared to answer ALL the questions they will throw at you?

According to Forbes, they have compiled 10 tough questions that you SHOULD be prepared for...

1. Why Should I Hire You?

The most overlooked question is also the one most candidates are unprepared to answer. This is often because job applicants don't do their homework on the position. Your job is to illustrate why you are the most qualified candidate. Review the job description and qualifications very closely to identify the skills and knowledge that are critical to the position, then identify experiences from your past that demonstrate those skills and knowledge.

2. Why Is There A Gap In Your Work History?

Employers understand that people lose their jobs and it's not always easy to find a new one fast. When answering this question, list activities you'??ve been doing during any period of unemployment. Freelance projects, volunteer work or taking care of family members all let the interviewer know that time off was spent productively.

3. Tell Me One Thing You Would Change About Your Last Job

Beware over sharing or making disparaging comments about former coworkers or supervisors, as you might be burning bridges. But an additional trouble point in answering this query is showing yourself to be someone who can'??t vocalize their problems as they arise. Why didn'??t you correct the issue at the time? Be prepared with an answer that doesn't criticize a colleague or paint you in an unflattering light. A safe scapegoat? Outdated technology.

4. Tell Me About Yourself

People tend to meander through their whole resumes and mention personal or irrelevant information in answering--a serious no-no. Keep your answer to a minute or two at most. Cover four topics: early years, education, work history, and recent career experience. Emphasize this last subject. Remember that this is likely to be a warm-up question. Don't waste your best points on it. And keep it clean--??no weekend activities should be mentioned.

5. Explain A Complex Database To Your Eight-Year-Old Nephew

Explaining public relations, explaining mortgages, explaining just about anything in terms an eight-year-old can understand shows the interviewer you have solid and adaptable understanding of what it is they do. Do your homework, know the industry and be well-versed.

6. What Would The Person Who Likes You Least In The World Say About You?

Highlight an aspect of your personality that could initially seem negative, but is ultimately a positive. An example? Impatience. Used incorrectly this can be bad in a workplace. But stressing timeliness and always driving home deadlines can build your esteem as a leader. And that'??s a great thing to show off in an interview.

7. Tell Me About A Time When Old Solutions Didn't Work

The interviewer is trying to identify how knowledgeable you are in today'??s work place and what new creative ideas you have to solving problems. You may want to explore new technology or methods within your industry to be prepared for. Twitter-phobes, get tweeting. Stat.

8. What's The Biggest Risk You've Ever Taken?

Some roles require a high degree of tenacity and the ability to pick oneself up after getting knocked down. Providing examples of your willingness to take risks shows both your ability to fail and rebound, but also your ability to make risky or controversial moves that succeed.

9. Have You Ever Had A Supervisor Challenge A Decision?

Interviewers are looking for an answer that shows humility--??and the ability to take direction. The anecdote should be telling, but it'??s the lesson learned, not the situation, that could land you the job.

10. Describe A Time When Your Team Did Not Agree

Questions pertaining to difficulties in the past are a way for employers to anticipate your future behavior by understanding how you behaved in the past and what you learned. Clarify the situation succinctly and explain what specific action you took to come to a consensus with the group. Then describe the result of that action.


How would you have answered these questions????

memo to the ballaz

Money is relative.

You can have it. Or not have it.

I've seen it come and go for some. I've spent more than the past 10 yrs in the financial industry. I'd like to think that I have an idea of how money works.

There has been a disturbing trend of the separation of money and athletes. I will be the first to say that athletes are paid a LOT more money that I make (and probably you too). Yet, there's a trend of prominent athletes (Lenny Dykstra, Antoine Walker, Allen Iverson, & Terrell Owens...just to name a few) who are going broke. How does someone who has made MILLIONS lose their money? It's a lot easier than you may think. We live in a culture where it's celebrated to be BALLIN. I'm all for BALLIN...but I'd advise any athlete to ball on a budget. Allow me to impart some wisdom on you ballers...

1. DON'T BUY A BUNCH OF CARS
This may be hard for some people to understand but you don't need a fleet a cars. Two...maybe 3. Cars have no appreciation value. The value decreases even more when you "trick" the cars out. If I had millions, I'd have 3 cars...that's it. At the end of the day, you can only drive ONE at time.

2. DON'T INVEST IN A BUNCH OF HOUSES
It's ok to buy a house for your mama. There's nothing wrong with having a house or 2 for yourself. But that can be tricky. The housing market is still unstable. Don't buy a house today that you can't resale in 3-5 yrs and make a profit

3. UNDERSTAND HOW BUSINESS WORKS
You have to understand how YOUR money works. Make your money work for you. Not the other way around. Ignorance can never be an excuse. If your financial adviser and accountant can count your money...and you can't...guess who's gonna be broke????

4. SLASH YOUR PAYROLL
I'm amazed at how many athletes have friends and family members who are on their payroll and they do nothing. Personal chef, barber, event planner...are all some of the pseudo titles that you'll hear from time to time. You can't pay for everybody. I understand the feeling of not wanting to disappoint your "posse" or "click" but you have to be practical about how you spend your money.

5. GROUPIE LOVE
If you have money, the groupies will come. Athletes are quick to talk bad about groupies but they are just as guilty. Some chicks are looking for a good time. Others are looking for a meal ticket. They know if you get them pregnant, they'll be "set for life." I remember an old head told me when I was young that "a child is a million dollar investment." Guess that means ole 12kyle is worth 4M! LOL. Seriously, child support is no joke. It's hard to fathom why an athlete would have to pay 10k per month for a baby who can barely walk. But that's the rules. Before you lay down, think about the consequences.

6. TEMP GIG
This is the golden rule that all athletes must remember...As a professional athlete, you have the best TEMP JOB in America! Nobody plays forever. It doesn't matter how great you are, one day you won't be able to play. And when that day comes, you can't earn that check. It doesn't matter if you make 20M a year. There will come a time that you won't earn that. If you don't take care of your money, you're gonna be in trouble. Money is relative. Most people spend/or save as much as they make make. If you make 5M a year, you'll live the lifestyle of a person who makes that kinda money. The same goes for someone who makes 40k a yr. If you don't adjust your spending habits before you retire, you will struggle financially. That goes for millionaires and us hundredaires. LOL

Always remember what most of us were told when we were young..."A fool and his money shall soon part."

c.r.e.a.m

Sometimes I wish people thought like me.

Not everybody.

But some people.

Peep this conversation that I had at work with a co-worker.

Her : Kyle, look at this guy's information (as she points to her computer screen). This guy makes $12,500 per month but he's buying this house that only costs $180,000.

Me : Only?

Her : Yeah. That's 150k a year. Look at his credit. He doesn't have much credit. He could afford a more expensive house.

Me : Yeah, he could. Maybe he doesn't want to overextend himself financially? He's keeping his debt to a minimum. I understand it.

Her : Not me. That's just stupid. I would get a bigger, more expensive house. He can afford it.

Me : You know what...that might have been the dumbest thing I've heard all day. Just because he can afford it doesn't mean that he should buy it. People have to get past that mentality. Look at his profile. He's an executive at GM. You never know what may happen with that company or any company. I'm sure his severance would be nice but he's being smart. He's making a good business decision. You never know what his situation is. Why jump into a ton of debt if you don't have to? We're in a recession. You have to be smart about what you spend your money on. And if he found a cheaper house, why not get it?



We're both mortgage underwriters. We have more than 10 yrs of experience. Right now, we're looking at corporate purchase relocations. These are loans where people who work for corporations and are being relocated by their companies. For example, Jon works for Glaxosmith Kline in Durham, NC. He gets a promotion and they want him to move to Reno, NV. It will be up to him to find a home in Reno and he'd have to qualify. The loan file would come to me and I'd approve it.

My point to my co-worker is this...we all have to be smart about how we spend our money. The dude who's credit profile that we were talking about only had one small credit card. No car payment. No loans. So, he is able to invest/save almost all of his money. As we emerge from this recession, I think it's important to be mindful about what we spend our money on. I'm not saying that we shouldn't want the finer things in life. Who doesn't? Foreclosures and unemployment is at an all time high. Companies are going under. Financially, the country is at rock bottom. It'll be some time before we dig ourselves out of this hole. That being said, be smart about the debt that you assume. Be mindful about what you spend your money on.

Don't go all out...just because you can afford to.

bling dynasty

Over the years, there have been several dynasties that have ruled the world

Some dynasties have been more popular than others.

But all dynasties must come to an end.

There was one dynasty that recently died...very quietly. Honestly, I wasn't sad to see it die.

The BLING DYNASTY is dead...thanks to this 2 year recession that we've had. I'm glad to see it go. The bling dynasty had a lotta people fooled and confused. People thought that it was here to stay. They were wrong. Too much flossing. I'm not saying that it's not cool to have nice things. I'm not saying that at all. You just have to be more practical about how you spend your money.

Why buy a $50,000 car that you have to park OUTSIDE in your apartment complex? If you spend that much on a car, you should park it INSIDE your house (garage). Why spend that much on a car note when AND rent when you can use that money to own a house?

Why spend a ton of money on clothes? Well...I know that most people shop and buy clothes and feel good while doing it. Most people aren't practical about what they buy. For example, I may be one of Michael Jordan's biggest fans ever. But at age 36 (soon to be 37), why would I spend $200 for a pair of Air Jordans? I don't wear sneakers to work. I only wear sneakers when I go to the gym. And when I go to the gym, I wear a different kind of sneaker. It's the same with jeans. I wear jeans to work but to spend $200 on a pair of jeans that DON'T jump on my legs by themselves...makes no sense. It's just not practical. Can I afford it? Sure I can. But that's not wise spending.

I'm not here to preach to anybody. We just have to be more practical about how and what we spend our money on. I know that there'll be people who'll spend tons of money over the next few weeks on Christmas gifts. Be practical on what you spend money on. Make sure that it has a net tangible benefit. I mean, when you look back at your purchase, you see that you actually gained something in what you bought. Most of us aren't getting a raise at work. Expenses are increasing (has anybody seen how much a box of cereal costs). Incomes are decreasing. It would be asinine to keep spending like you used to do. That makes no sense. Eventually, you're gonna get hit in the pocket.

Remember, the bling dynasty is over.

Good riddance.

time4acap

There comes a time for CHANGE

And I ain't talking about Prez O...

I think it's time for a change in the laws.

I would like to institute a salary cap...kinda like the NBA...on child support.

There should be a cap on the maximum amount that one can receive for child support despite of their parents earnings. Let me preface my comments by saying that this post ain't about those dead beat dads (baby daddy's) who pay little or nothing towards child support.

This post is for those "high priced babies." You know...the ones who costs more than my kids and your kids. The kids who are born to these celebs who need "special treatment" as a result of a divorce settlement or paternity test. In July, a judge ruled that the hip hop star NaS would have to pay his ex-wife, singer Kelis, nearly 40k/month in "support" (30k in spousal support and 9k in child support). Are you kiddin me? 40k per month? That's 480,000 a year. During their divorce proceedings, Kelis told the judge that she had not received any money from NaS during her pregnancy and she "only made nearly 21k per month." Kelis, who recently gave birth to the couples first child, asked the judge to make sure that she nor the child would not have to have a change in their lifestyle.

The judge ruled in her favor and granted that NaS pay her 9k a month for their child.

I have a HUGE problem with this. Kelis is not the first celebrity to cash in the child support dollars. Kim Porter, former model and the mother of 3 children to mogul Puff Daddy, cashed in for nearly 40k/month per child a few years ago. Porter and Puffy were never married. Fashion mogul Kimora Lee Simmons receives more than 100k/month from her ex husband hip hip mogul, Russell Simmons for their 2 daughters.

I think these amounts are insane. I understand that the "child support" numbers are determined by how much their fathers earn. I don't think any judge would ask NaS, Puffy, or Russell Simmons to pay "child support" that they couldn't afford to pay. I also understand that 40k per month for a multi-millionaire is like us paying 40 bux a month for a credit card. Do you really think that money is being used to "support the child?" Do the kids need Cristal in their Captain Crunch? Do the kids need platinum pampers? Do the kids need to be driven to school in a Bentley? What happens when these dudes don't earn this kinda money any more? Will these women still have the money that they should have set aside for the kids? Hell no

I'll be the first to admit that I don't know Kim Porter personally. However, I have run in the same circle as Ms Porter and we've been in some spots here in Atlanta. I don't know what she does with her money but I find it every time I've seen her...she and her girlfriends are pissy-drunk. I wouldn't call buying out the bar at a club a sound investment. But hey...that's just me.

I hereby propose salary cap on "child support." The new cap number is 7k per month. That is the max no matter how much the parent earns.

I think the cap is necessary because...quite frankly...if you can't raise a child on 84,000 per year...you prolly shouldn't have kids. If you can't raise a child on 84k, send em to me...I'll take care of em and you send ME the 84k.

i don't wanna dream about gettin paid

Somehow...i think i got into the wrong profession. I should've played golf for a living...


Five years ago, Sports Illustrated first set out to find the 50 top-earning American athletes (taking into account on- and off-the-field income). We discovered a few basic facts, and as the Fortunate 50 turns five, some things have remained dead-on consistent:

No one can touch Tiger Woods, the runaway No. 1 for the fifth year in a row. Tiger's near $128 million haul is more than double his closest pursuer, Phil Mickelson at $62.4 million. As usual, hoops dominates the 50: More than half this year's list is made up of NBA players. There are 10 baseball players, seven football players, three NASCAR drivers, three golfers and one boxer -- and yet zero women.

Meanwhile, our International 20 list has seen a huge bump in average paycheck, thanks to the weak American dollar: 12 of the athletes earn their bread in foreign currencies from leagues outside the U.S. In the futures department, we tab the likes of Danica Patrick, Chris Paul and Joba Chamberlain to someday soon make the 50 in our Future Fortunates photo gallery.

As always, we limited our estimates to salary, winnings, bonuses, endorsements and appearances. Candidates for the 50 had to be American citizens. For an in-depth analysis of who's on the fifth annual Fortunate 50 and why, click here.

1. Tiger Woods...(Pro Golf)

Last Year's Rank: 1

$22,902,706 - Salary/Winnings
$105,000,000 - Endorsements
$127,902,706 - TOTAL

With close to $800 million in total earnings on and off the course over his 13-year career, Tiger should become the first billion-dollar athlete in the next two years -- and he's still only 32.

2. Phil Mickelson...(Pro Golf)

Last Year's Rank: 3

$9,372,685 - Salary/Winnings
$53,000,000 - Endorsements
$62,372,685 - TOTAL

Lefty's numbers jump thanks to an extra $2 million in FedEx Cup points in '07 and lucrative appearance fees for his first participation on the Asian Tour in Singapore and Shanghai.
3. LeBron James...Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)

Last Year's Rank: 6

$12,455,000 - Salary/Winnings
$28,000,000 - Endorsements
$40,455,000 - TOTAL

King James has earned $167 million during his five seasons in the NBA, and has his eyes on serious entrepreneurship: He counts billionaire Warren Buffett as a role model and friend.

4. Floyd Mayweather Jr... (Boxing)

Last Year's Rank: 22

$20,000,000 - Salary/Winnings
$20,250,000 - Endorsements
$40,250,000 - TOTAL

It's been a monster year for Pretty Boy, who made $20 million in purse and pay-per-view shares for his fight with Ricky Hatton and another $20 million for his foray into professional wrestling.

5. Kobe Bryant...Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)

Last Year's Rank: 5

$19,490,625 - Salary/Winnings
$16,000,000 - Endorsements
$35,490,625 - TOTAL

How's that for a change of tune? He once criticized his teammates; last month Bryant bought each of them $9,000 Swiss watches as a thank you for helping him win his first MVP award.

6. Shaquille O'Neal...Phoenix Suns (NBA)

Last Year's Rank: 4

$20,000,000 - Salary/Winnings
$15,000,000 - Endorsements
$35,000,000 - TOTAL

Shaq finally unloaded his 2.5-acre Miami estate last fall after having it on the market for more than two years. The buyer? Miami-native (and No. 7) A-Rod, for a reported $27 million.

7. Alex Rodriguez...New York Yankees (MLB)

Last Year's Rank: 11

$29,000,000 -Salary/Winnings
$6,000,000 - Endorsements
$35,000,000 - TOTAL

Assuming A-Rod plays out his new mammoth 10-year, $275 million deal, he'll have earned $445 million in base salary alone over the course of what would be a 24-year career.

8. Kevin Garnett...Boston Celtics (NBA)

Last Year's Rank: 7

$22,000,000 - Salary/Winnings
$9,000,000 - Endorsements
$31,000,000 - TOTAL

KG is the highest-paid of the Celtics' Big Three; at a total of $56.1 million in salary this season, the trio makes up 74 percent of the Eastern Conference champs' entire payroll in '07-08.

9. Peyton Manning...Indianapolis Colts (NFL)

Last Year's Rank: 12

$17,500,000 - Salary/Winnings
$13,000,000 - Endorsements
$30,500,000 - TOTAL

Hide the Lombardi Trophy. Football's leading endorser is still king of NFL pitchmen, but little bro Eli -- with whom he now regularly shares screen time in TV ads -- is creeping up fast.

10. Derek Jeter...New York Yankees (MLB)

Last Year's Rank: 8

$22,000,000 - Salary/Winnings
$8,000,000 - Endorsements
$30,000,000 - TOTAL

The Yankee captain cut a deal with the tax man in February that allowed him to avoid paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in back taxes on his $13 million Trump World Tower condo.

to view the rest of the athletes who made the list go to this link...

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/more/specials/fortunate50/