Social Media Technology Love it or Hate it, It's Here to Stay

Social Media Technology: Love or Hate it

I’ve made this as a very simple, quick and easy way to get familiar or re-familiarize yourself with Social Media Technology (SMT). I have also included some links for some of the main sites should you wish to explore or try some of these.

Much of this is what I have personally discovered. continue to learn using SMT, and as someone who has a love/hate relationship with it. However, I have found that it is necessary to make an effort to at least have an idea of what's going on out there since we are all being affected in one way or another. Just look around you now, from your watch, phone, television, even appliances. SMT is part of our lives.

Due to its nature, it is impossible to include all that is related to social media technology. But ideally everyone can use this to have confirmation, learn something new, and food for thought and engage more fully their journey through the social media world. I also would like to save you the time and frustration I have gone through navigating through this new world of ours.

Social Media Technology, What is this?

What is social media?Social Media is a type of technology (SMT). One that creates very strong feelings in many of us. Many of us either hate it or love it . I personally have a love/hate relationship with it. It is my contention that for every pro there is a con. And if you are undecided on how to use it, I believe considering both sides is crucial. At minimum we should know what SMT is because it is literally everywhere and can’t be ignored, for too long anyway.

Some researchers are studying the effects social media has on us. SMT however, is constantly evolving and at an ever-increasing rate. The effect of on us is still undetermined and unfolding. It is unlikely we will come up with any definitive conclusion because of its dynamic nature. So the bad news is, resistance is truly futile when it comes to social media in our lives. Good news, there is something for everyone at any level that we can make use of.

This is what we do know thus far. More people are using SMT than ever in our known history. People are spending more time per day on one type of social media or another.

It used to be that teens and those in their twenties were the main users for SMT. Now people of all ages are using it and those 65 and older are using it at an unexpectedly high rate.

My experience,  feelings and why I use SMT

Many people don’t know this about me because they may know me as an entertainer, speaker, event lover, but I actually did my Master’s Thesis on the woes and fears of the use of evolving technology. That is because of my own fear associated with its use. Unlike many young people today, I wasn’t born with computers and other technologies being ubiquitous. In fact, we took basic typewriting courses during my high school days, on a typewriter not computer. If there was a computer it had that awful black screen with green fonts and DOS (Disk Operating System) was the main way of using it. We didn't have "window", swiping or systems the way we easily use them today.

In a fairly short time, things have evolved and changed to the point where using a basic computer seems like childsplay for most people. Just slide here, touch there, click other there and boom, you get things done.

What SMT is in a nutshell
Types of SMT range from huge to small websites, programs, applications (apps), and other technology.

Some examples SMT is used for are connecting people to each other via writing, photos, texting, work projects, video chatting, vlogs (videoblogs) networking, gaming, dating, dining, social bookmarking certain sites and general entertainment (streaming movies and shows online).

There are more and more devices using SMT. We have the traditional computer,  mobile smart phones, tablets, cameras, shopping registers, and emerging technology devices like Google glasses with a computer attached. Anywhere you go, even at home, these are there. And they are somehow becoming interconnected with each other. Did you notice that many websites now allow you to sign in not just through themselves but through other sites like Facebook and Twitter?

The Human Factor

We as humans have to find a way to adapt to this in one way or another. Some refuse to engage and go live in a technology-less sub-cultural systems. But that is quite rare and very challenging. So more of us are using SMT as said above. That means we will come in contact with all kinds of characters through this virtual world. These include, regular everyday folks, friends, family, business owners, huge business entities, artists, entertainers, the vain, people with political agendas, those who want to do good for the world, bullies...the list goes on. We have to learn how to use common sense manners and caution to get through our days avoiding the bad seeds out there.

Benefits and Transformation

SMT has changed from simply sharing information in a virtual environment, to a way of creating and establishing a presence and reputation in both the virtual and real world. This includes making money, career, health, social engagement and many other facets of our lives. It is literally changing the way we as humans communicate, process about share information.

Our brains have something Neuro-scientists call Neuroplasticity. That is, are brains our much more flexible in its neural connection that we ever thought possible. We can learn new things in amazing, previously unknown ways. With social media and current technology our brains are literally processing information/data differently.

Why Love SMT
It can make life easier in many ways if used properly. From paying bills, finding information fast. to sending out instant messages. The days of the carrier pigeons are gone. In addition, the below is also possible:

• Anyone can be a “star”
• Connections with things you care about (niche interests)
• Money can potentially be made (e-commerce) and other goods and services can be exchanged
• There is a global reach. At no other time, have we been able to reach anyone, anywhere in the world about anything. As long as they have access to the technology, we can reach out to each other. So when we say the world wide web or interconnection, it is quite literal. 
• It has become one of the best for hearing about breaking news anywhere in the world.
• It can help create romantic relationships, business liaisons, and humane causes
• Can have a positive impact psychologically by being in the know on so many issues and information that otherwise be inaccessible 
• Used for teaching and working better

Why Hate SMT

The reasons to hate SMT are the opposite of the reasons to love it.

• It’s complexity--it can be extremely hard to use and understand
• Bombardment of info--too much too fast
• Feeling disconnected
• Relationships can be destroyed (all kinds)
• One can be bullied, staked by predators including sexual predators from anywhere, at anytime
• A target by spammers, scammers and all kinds cyber criminals
• Our privacy is decreasing exponentially (cameras everywhere) we can even be seen by our monitors and home cameras in our own home
• We can be left behind by society if we are not caught up with this virtual world movement

Despite Loving or Hating, What to do with it?

Although the feelings toward SMT are all over the place, there are benefits to using any of these platforms. It all depends on what your goals are. The tricky issue is that much of this technology is moving so fast it's hard to figure out if your goals are in tune with the technology itself. Either way, you have to start somewhere and probably already have. So consider:

~If you just like to watch, read, learn and observe any of these will be fun to try.

~If you want to participate, communicate actively, write, add photos, videos, or any content, each of these has different ways you can do this and it depends on what is your favorite style.

~If you want to avoid it as much as possible, at least know what any particular SMT is being used for and if one day it will affect you directly or indirectly.

The Big and Popular ones ones...I have either put the general link (if it's available) or a link to a page I use for you to see how I'm using some of these.

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Youtube
• LinkedIn
• Pinterest
• Foursquare
• Google+
• BlogTalk and other podcasts
• Instagram
• Itunes or Reverbnation (you can do an online search for these)
• Blogger and Wordpress

Niche Social Media and applications for reviews, discounts and more

• Yelp
• Groupon
• Living Social
• Virtual reality/world with avatars etc (you can do an online search for these)
• LiveDeal.com
• Retailmenot

Other niche, evolving apps

• QR code
• Goto Meeting- virtual business meetings, webinars and conferences (online search)

Sites and Apps For Dating

• OkCupid
• Plenty of Fish
• Match.com
• Hot or Not
• Tinder

There are sites for travel discounts, service and product reviews, you name it. All you have to do is do a search and try not to get overwhelmed. The more popular ones will likely appear first but some gems can appear later on in the search pages so take a look at what's there too.

As the title states, SMT is here to stay. You can hate it, love it but will eventually use it so why not get to know it.  

Want to know more? Schedule a coaching session on this and other issues at This is Diana.

~Always with Love, Light and Common Sense Manners~

Diana Navarro, M.S.
On a Quest to Bring Common Sense Manners Back!

www.Thisisdiana.com

And get my new book by clicking here

Are you Breathing?? Make EVERYTHING Better with Conscious Breathing

BREATHE

What is Pranayama (conscious) Breathing?

How are you breathing right now? I can't tell you how many times I've caught myself breathing shallow and too fast. This is due to the years of anxiety attacks I've had. But with time, information and tons of practice I remind myself to breathe a little deeper and slower. I'll share what I've learned below about what they call in Yoga Pranayama. This is conscious breathing.

It is hard to believe that what we think it a natural function can be done the wrong way. Meaning not effectively to provide us with the sustenance we need to be healthy, e.g. provide enough oxygen in and carbon dioxide out. In yoga, conscious effective breathing can be as simple as just being aware of how you are breathing to very complex exercises that should be done with the right guidance. For now, we are going for the simple but VERY effective first step--awareness. 

This can be done wherever you are. Just notice how deeply or shallow you are breathing. Also notice how often. Do this for a few seconds. You can slowly transition to try to breathe in a bit more deeply but down into your belly (not your upper chest because you won't get the air in the lungs and may hyperventilate). Exhale, but try to control it and do it a bit more slowly than normal. Simply practice. 

So I ask you, have you had the opportunity to give yourself the gift of breathing consciously? The good news since we take millions of breaths during our lifetime you have plenty of upcoming chances. Regardless of what is happening in your life breath is your one constant. Your reminder of the spirit the lives within your physical body. This force, “air”, is always available and free for us to use. Not even water is free is most places these days. So enjoy air and breathing. Should you be concerned about breathing clean, healthy air, you are not alone.

If you want to see how to improve your breathing habits overall try one of these options:

~ Go to a source of nature that has little pollution around,like by the sea. Sadly, this is not always feasible to many for it requires, travel and some financial expense. 

~Find local parks and gardens in your area via websites, there are surprising lovely places just waiting to be discovered.

~Make the investment of purchasing air purifier for you home and/or work space. This can provide you with some peace of mind that the air you are breathing is clean, healthy and the precious mixture we all need to survive. Air purifiers come in different price ranges, sizes, and levels of sound. A side note, while some prefer silent purifiers, many traditional “noisy” ones provide an excellent source of white to mask and neutralize other unpleasant noises.

~The humble plant. This is the best and most natural purifier known. Get a few, love them and they will reward you with fresh air, beauty and much more.

Continue to pay attention to your breathing to insure healthy habits that increase your oxygen intake and lessen the effects of bad breathing habits. It is a really good idea to practice pranayama anytime you remember to do so. It has an incredible way of making you more mindful and self-aware. Please use this section as a reminder to practice the simple form of pranayama we did above—belly-breathing. 

And if you need convincing, here is what simple conscious breathing can help you with:

• In alleviating panic and anxiety attacks
• When feeling chronic stress
• When fatigued
• If you have cloudy thinking
• With problems sleeping (and I'm an expert in that area)
• In romantic moments (really!), it makes it 100 times better
• While waiting for news (good or bad)
• Exercising (all types)
• While getting a doctors exam
• Digesting food better
• Honestly, everything

There are many resources you can use to learn more. If you specifically want yoga breathing exercises go to your local yoga studio or do an online check for a qualified teacher. In the meantime, just do a book search or internet search and try what works for you.

And here is our constant reminder of what your breath tells you on the regular basis.

When you are feeling relaxed, like when you are sleeping, your exhalation is twice as long as your inhalation. Keep in mind that anger, your breathing is shallow. Imagine how little oxygen your brain is getting during this time. and when feeling frightened or anxious you tend to hold your breath. No oxygen = no good. So as I always say....BREATHE

Want to know more? Schedule a coaching session on this and other issues at This is Diana.

~Always with Love, Light and Common Sense Manners~

Diana Navarro, M.S.
On a Quest to Bring Common Sense Manners Back!
www.Thisisdiana.com

Yoga's Secret--Mudras (Hand Postures)

Source: Free Digital Photos. net

Millions of people do yoga. But many don't know about one of the secrets of the movement of energy lie in your hands. They are the hand postures called Mudras.

What are Mudras?

Did you know you do Mudras everyday? Unbeknownst to many of us, we use what is defined as hand gestures. But it gets more interesting. These hand gestures have symbolic meaning and also the ability to move the energy within us and around in certain ways. 

In other words, they are connected to yoga. In addition to physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation and vocalization, mudras can enhance your ability to yoke and balance your life in an elegant manner. You don’t have to be an expert in any religion or science to enjoy the benefits mudras can bring. In fact, it’s a great way to enhance any meditation or relaxation practice. Mudras can also be used in physical hand therapies and help in the process of emotional healing. In fact, madras can be used to manifest certain outcomes.

The beauty of mudras is that they can be practiced anywhere and be held as long as you like. With practice, an innate knowledge usually develops on which gestures work best for each individual. Like the rest of our bodies, the hands process quite a bit of physical and subtle/non-physical energy. Whether we mean simple circulation or a person to person communication tool, our hands are incredibly powerful. Mudras can be used to promote healthy and optimum energy flow to and from our hands.

We are mostly familiar with mudras that have a so-called neutral meaning like pointing your finger or crossing our fingers. We also are familiar with mudras that have an insulting intention, like giving someone “the finger”. However, there are mudras that we actively do on the regular basis that have an incredible power potential once we are attuned to it. 

The Linga Mudra

Linga Mudra

Here is an example of one of a commonly used mudras; but this time with intention and purpose.

We’ll work with fingers crossed mudra. It is called upright mudra or Linga mudra as seen in the above illustration. 

Place both hands together with one thumb remaining upright. 

This has benefits that make worth doing it on the regular basis. 

The Linga Mudra:

• Can help assist in your weight loss goals when used in conjunction to a healthy diet, drinking lots of water and increase in physical activity. 
• Increased resistance to colds, coughs and any infection of the chest. 
• And if you suffer respiratory problems, this mudra can help loosen mucus in the lungs. 

It can be done several times a day and held for 5 to 15 minutes per session. This can be done when the opportunity arises or a specially selected time. Worth giving a shot isn't it?

There is so much more info out there on postures you can use and I trust you are excited to find out more. 

Want to know more? Schedule a coaching session on this and other issues at This is Diana.

~Always with Love, Light and Common Sense Manners~

Diana Navarro, M.S.
On a Quest to Bring Manners Back!
www.Thisisdiana.com

This is Diana News, Updates and Events

Hello and Happy Spring to YOU!!!

I’m happy to be able to send you an update because you know it’s been awhile. First, let me thank all of you who have been with me for the past several years.

You know the ups and downs I have experienced and how I like to share love and assistance no matter what. I want to welcome those who have recently signed up to be in the know of all that This Is Diana is.

I have fine tuned what I do and ask you to join me on my quest to Bring Common Sense Manners Back and facilitate Spiritual Awakening and Emergence.

Let me take this opportunity to answer some of your questions and update you on a few services and events via newsletters, and social media. My Facebook business Page can be accessed and “Liked” . I have am almost at the milestone of 1000 likes so go ahead and check if you haven’t already.

Events and Singing

Yes I am still doing events but I have learned quite a bit from the ones I’ve done in the past few years. I always strive to do events where we are all celebrating something, making new connections and can walk away with something to cherish.

The next scheduled event is my birthday. I like to think of this way of getting people together to thank them for being in my life in celebratory way. If you have not received your invite, which send via Evites, and or Facebook, please let know and I will resend it to you. All details are there and I am really looking forward to turning the big 44!

Psychic Readings

Yes and no. I am doing Spiritual Coaching which is a more accurate description for what I’ve always done and continue to do. You can find so much more on my website which I have yet again improved to make it easy and enjoyable to browse. I have also enabled it to be used for mobile devices so you can schedule a session from anywhere. Simply check  This is Diana

Writings

I have been working on my two books and am almost done with both. The first is  1) You’re not Crazy, It’s Paranormal! Real Stories, Insights and Photos of Orbs For Those Who Think They’re Going Insane because of a Spiritual Awakening or the Supernatural, and

2) Oh No You Didn’t: The Quest to Eliminate Rudeness and Bring Common Sense Manners Back

Each of these have been in the making for years so it is no wonder why you will see more and more about these two projects. I will keep you updated on when they will be published and how to get your copy. In the meantime, I will still do topical blog entries and other writings.

Radio and Commentary

I still do have the “This is Diana” radio on Blog Talk Radio. You can check that on my website or on theirs any time. I do shows depending on guests and topics hence will announce them accordingly. I am also having more media sources interview as I continue to work on my writings, do my work with “The Psychics” and my future one woman show.

Entertainment

Aside from singing I am on board with New Apple Productions and working on “The Psychics” as I just mentioned. Please do check that page as well on The Psychics TV Show on Facebook.

You are now caught up! If you have any questions, contact me and I’ll be happy to answer it. Enjoy the Spring time and every moment as it comes.

~Always with Love, Light and Common Sense Manners~

Diana Navarro, M.S.
On a Quest to Bring Manners Back!
www.Thisisdiana.com

Diana Navarro Singing with Mitch Winehouse, Wait for 2nd Song - YouTube

Diana Navarro Singing with Mitch Winehouse, Wait for 2nd Song - YouTube:

What Makes an Empathic/Intuitive Consultation Session

Empathic-Intuitive Healing

You can hear this in a broadcast HERE

The intuitive work I perform is a culmination of 25 years of crisis counseling, academic advising, business consulting, academic and independent research analysis, and interpretation, spiritual inquiry, conducting workshops, lectures and seminars, and musical performance, personal fitness experience in restorative yoga and strength training to promote health of body, mind and spirit.

I am an empath-Empaths are extremely sensitive to their environment, people and animals. They literally “feel” and sense what others feel in many ways. Some are more sensitive than others and display psychic abilities via feeling, hearing, hearing what others do, visual flashes, dreams, and connecting synchronicities.

Intuitive healing takes various forms

The most common type is one on one consultation with one or more individual. During these consultations various tools are used. What tool is used depends on the clients preference, comfort level and healers intuition.

Examples of tools used include, handwriting analysis, Archetypal visual cards, like Tarot, Sacred Geometry, Angel cards and Jungian I-Ching. Through these transactions the following can be achieved.

1. Client receives confirmation on what the he/she senses, feels, has a hunch about or intuits.

2. An opportunity for a transformation of consciousness which may be exclusive of the success or failure of the person.

3. A safe harbor in which to think aloud, conjecture, verify, or release fears and concerns.

4. A concept of the truth without preconceived motives or judgments.

5. A metaphorical mirror in which the client may review past, present, and future trends, decisions, goals, and/or actions.

6. A mental resolution or peace of mind.

7. Information to improve interpersonal relationships.

8. Information that encourages the manager to take responsibility in creating one's environment, personally and communally.

9. Assurance that the services are for the betterment of all humanity as the intuitive consultant becomes totally absorbed, beyond personal ego, in the process at hand.

10. Information which is objective and discerning, absent of judgment or fear.

11. An opportunity to view people (w)holistically.

12. Information that promotes above all Free Will. In addition, independence, right thinking, right motivations, and right action are encouraged versus co-dependence or being subjected to other people's attempts to control or to manipulate.

13. Information that confirms an attitude of "allowing things to happen" versus making them happen.

14. Guidance on how to live an ordinary life in an extraordinary way.

15. Perspectives on working with the concept of diversity and commonality.

16. Incorporation of music as a healing modality into consultations, workshops and humane fundraising events.

Feng Shui

Feng Shui services including creating a sacred space and space clearing/cleansing.

Feng Shui is the art and science of placement. The Feng Shui technique used, combines Tibetan, Buddhist, Indian Taoist techniques with modern Psychology.

The basic principle is that moving, adjusting and changing your physical and subtle energy directly influences the quality of the inhabitants dwelling in that home or business. Expect improvement of health, prosperity, relationships and overall balance with their environment.

All Feng Shui Consultations include:

Explanation of the Bagua and The Five Elements

Assessment of address your concerns

Explaining Feng Shui, Cures and Blessings as well as Feng Shui Topics

An Exterior Assessment with suggestions

Assessment of interior of home including each room

Color consultation, when specifically requested

Suggestions for energy enhancement and maintenance for each space

Space Clearing

Disclaimers and what Intuitive Work does NOT do

The client is never told what to do. The tenet of empowering a person’s FREE WILL is the primary goal.

Options and suggestions are offered, but is it absolutely up to each client what to do and how to do it.

Fortune-telling and predictions are not part of the intuitive healing process. Only likelihood of possible outcomes are explored as to give the client insight.

If you would like more information on me and my quest please do contact me. I am of course on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Youtube, Google+, Pinterest, Blogger, and BlogTalkRadio and all can be accessed via my website: www.thisisdiana.com and http://ow.ly/AGmlA  Sign up to my email list and get a FREE E-Book!

~Always with Love, Light and Common Sense Manners~

~Diana Navarro, M.S.

Finding the Beautiful Things in LIfe--Including Manners

For Coaching Services with me check here

To get  your copy of my books please check here

#bitesizehealing

5 Really Good Reasons to Say Goodbye--To Friends, Lovers, Social Media, and Even Your Phone

Note: This piece is for introspection, you are fully responsible for all choices you make in your life.

A Brief Intro
When I was in elementary school I had to learn how to say hello and goodbye a lot. I went to 6 different elementary schools and had to hear that infamous "Hello class let's welcome our new student Diana".  Each time, I was scared to death I would not be welcomed or worse be un-welcomed. By the grace of the universe I was never treated badly or made to feel un-welcomed, but that's because I had a strategy. One I still use to day and will share at another time.

The worse part of moving around was saying goodbye to the friends I made. It was heartbreaking every time. You know what they say, with practice you get better. And I did. As a child and being an *empath, it was extra hard to detach, and even as an adult I have a very difficult time letting go of people and things when the time comes. But the time does come when it is time to move on for the greater good of all. 

I deal with a lot people in one way or the other. Again as an empath, I have to be extra self-protective. Something I learned the very hard way. I can't afford to have close and ongoing encounters with individuals who are on a significant different frequency (mismatched goals, ideologies, values) than me. How about you?

Do you know when it's time to say goodbye? As a child I didn't have a choice, I was moving. But as an adult it was a bit more vague. I felt I wanted my "bff" and be with my family/friends forever, but that isn't realistic. People and circumstances come into our lives for a reason. You may not know the reason for a long time to come, but chances are you will know and see the signs it's time to say goodbye.

1. When the greater good is no longer served, what does that mean? You know inside your mind and heart when a relationship, of work, personal or even casual is not serving the highest good:
2. When there is an ongoing, uneven exchange of energy and resources. 
3. When there is emotional, physical, spiritual depletion and damage to one or any of the parties involved.
4. When you feel frustrated, confused and fatigued dealing with the person or circumstance.
5. When you just know in the deepest level, and you do not need any logical reason.

You don't have to wait until you are so sick, upset, betrayed or experience any other negative emotion, before you move into your own peaceful space physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

The key is to move on with finesse, class and proper manners. There is no point in creating more negativity when you are trying to be in a healthier place. Many people wonder just how to do that. Here is when you use that incredible brain you were given and tap into common sense. 

Family, Friends, Acquaintances
With personal contacts it can be very sticky. Particularly family and long time friends. But it is your right to have peace, love and good things should you choose it. So you begin with creating boundaries. Oh, I guarantee you it won't be a piece of cake, but it will bring you peace eventually. You don't have to run to someone's rescue all the time. So choose if you want to continue doing this. You will have resistance so prepare yourself. But hold strong, because that will pass. There are also so many support resources you can use to do a little research and give yourself that gift.

Many people come into our lives for a reason. To share experiences with, and/or to learn lessons from. Often, we are not meant to be around the same people our whole lifetimes. This includes family. Once you understand the relationship dynamics, the lessons to be learned, and karmic implications, you can begin to decide how deeply invested you want to be. 

Romantic Relationships 
This is a topic for a separate and much more involved post/episode. But the quick of it is, that if you are in a romantic relationship, you are absolutely exchanging energy in every way. Is that energy exchange a healthy one? Only you know. Check in with your body, your mind, your circumstances at various times and see what you find. From thousands of people I've consulted with, too many are inexcusably unsatisfied with their relationship. Feeling they give too much and not receive any energy equally. 

Don't be fooled thinking, "Oh, this is just a casual fling/hookup/affair." There is no such thing in the true energy field. Most people are settling  hoping something changes or until something better comes along. They may feel pass the phase of fixing their karma or learning a lesson but still hold on. This only creates more karma debt and harsh unbalance. Choose now what you want in your most intimate relationship. Peace, bliss, pleasure, joint learning, passion, respect, joy...or conflict, illness, confusion, violence, abuse, heartbreak, loneliness (while with this person). The choice is truly yours. Begin with knowing what your patterns are, who are you typically attracted to, and why? As I said above, personal romantic relationships are very complex and this is just a snippet. There will be more on this in future posts.

Social Media
Social media is relatively new but very powerful. We meet and re-meet many people we would not otherwise do so. This includes old friends, new lovers, business colleagues, and new contacts. With other social contacts as in social media, I can personally tell you, knowing who to stay in touch with and who not to has been a complex issue. I and many others don't want to "burn bridges" or create animosity with social contacts. Yet too many folks are just takers of your information, resources, energy and offer nothing in return except an attitude of entitlement, or even playing dumb. I tell those people the following.

• Don't take it as a personal insult if I unfriend/unfollow/hide you. There is probably little that benefits us being in contact in this manner.
• Should you want to stay in touch and increase the quality of our connection, you may contact me via email, or phone and make a proposal.
• Respect my decision, simply taking from others does NOT benefit either party, yes including the taker. 

This is my personal standard: I believe in sharing resources and a paradigm of abundance, not a scarcity-based one of competition.

Your Phone, Car, House, Jewelry, Other Material Object (*not pets, they are sentient and should never be given up unless to a guardian who can better love them!)

We can get so attached to material objects we love them more than people, animals and ourselves. We can even become obsessed with these and that affects the overall quality of our lives. For that, I would definite go to a professional for help. But if you are just somewhat attached, like you really just like your phone or service but aren't satisfied with cost, plan, quality, but feel you must be loyal to it, then you have every right to shop around for something that better suits you. If it's a company, then bear in mind that it knows you as money or a number, not a person so trust me they will not take it personally.  

Basically, what I am saying is that it's all about YOU. but in good way. Giving yourself care, love, respect, and boundaries makes it possible for you to be whole. Always remembering that we are in a web of inter-connectedness regardless. But you have the choice to surround yourself with loving people and things. It's okay to give yourself permission for a life of peace. In a world that seems so chaotic, you have control, believe it or not, of your mind, brain, and spirit. Even if someone attempts to assault you, your heart, body and soul is YOURS so cherish it, love it and thank it. Let's get out of victim-hood and into power-hood. Feel empowered to walk a away from things that don't serve the highest good and make room to allow wonderful things to enter your life.

Have a question? Visit www.thisisdiana.com

*An Empath is an intuitive who in addition to expressing empathy (the ability to put oneself in another person or animals place emotionally, physically and spiritually), have abilities and characteristics that go beyond the normal senses. Empaths are extremely sensitive to their environment, people and animals. She/he literally “feel” and sense what others feel in many ways. Hence Diana received psychic information by feeling what others feel but also via visual flashes, dreams, and connecting synchronicities.

On a Quest to Bring Manners Back
With Light. Love and OM
Diana Navarro, M.S.
www.Thisisdiana.com
Psychic--Empath with a Psychology background, Radio and Video Broadcast Producer/Host, Social Commentator/Speaker, Entertainer, Consultant and features topics on Lifestyle/Manners, Humor, Entertainment, Health, The Paranormal and Causes.

Radio Show Address: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/this-is-diana
Radio Listener dial-in number: (347) 857-3160

More Contact info:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/This-Is-Diana/135169706521596?ref=hl

• Email: Dianan4839@aol.com

What I Learned and YOU Should Know From My "Failed" Crowdfunding Indiegogo Campaign

NOTE: Below are This is Diana Website and Radio links, click visit and follow...

It took me a couple of years to launch my Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign. I originally created a campaign in to of the main sites, Kickstarter and Indiegogo.  I wanted to be clear of what I wanted to achieve. I wanted to do an album with beautiful heartbreak love songs people love to hear, followed by a live show performing the songs. I did a lot of research on the songs I wanted, musicians, format, and rewards that I would offer my contributors for their support. I would also give 10% to a after hours New York City animal rescue fund. My campaign didn't pass the 1% of the needed funds.

My campaign was a failure. Or was it?

What Went Wrong?
Crowdfunding is the funding of now and the future where one can launch a creative, business, or non profit, project campaign by promoting to the public. The public would in turn get "perks" in return for their contributions.

Very close to the end of my campaign (you have 45 days to fulfill your financial goals). I did a lot of research on Indiegogo and other crowdfunding sites. As I already suspected and from what I saw it is very competitive. What I didn't expect is that you really have to have a PR person or huge team to move your campaign forward. I had neither. 

That's not what the original plan was. The original plan as I understood it, was that everyone with a really good project could get access to funding via these sites along with the project creator's effort of course. Since I didn't have a huge PR/Marketing firm I turned to my own network. My network has been created due to years of cultivating relationships of various kinds, doing consultations, being in entertainment, airing broadcasts, and on-going networking events. I turned to those and personal friends and family but oddly got very little response. I was becoming heart broken. 

However, the more I researched, the more I learned that much of the funding actually comes from contributors unknown to the project creator. You see the concept though relatively simple is still new to most people. It is hard to explain by an email invitation or post. So that was a relief of sorts. For that to happen any person creating a campaign must reach 20% of their goal. The more you ask for, the more challenging it is to reach that. Hence no promotion or exposure by the crowdfunding site almost insures one will not be successful in their goal.

What Went Right?

Learning and understanding that the crowdfunding process isn't a reflection of the quality of the project or lack of support from family and friends. The success of a campaign is really political and financial. Many phony, silly, even ridiculous campaigns have raised six figures or more, just check here: http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/is-crowdfunding-for-everyone-the-successes-failures/.

But nevertheless, it is hard not to take it personally when friends and family won't give as little as a dollar for a campaign they will receive something for. I however understand many didn't really read the posts, promotions and announcement. I also know many have supported me in many other ways, like coming to my events. So I thank sincerely and wholeheartedly thank them for that. Some reached out to me and told me their financial challenges and again, I am grateful they took the time to do that and it wasn't a reflection of the project's quality. 

I did get support however from several people who will get ongoing credit and perks from me because of this. Not for this campaign per se since it did not go through but other ways, as publicity from my broadcasts, public speaking, future music shows, personal referrals and references and more. There were those who almost facetiously sent me a note saying "good luck" and did not go unnoticed. 

What to Know for Your Campaign

• Worthiness--Launch your project if you really believe in it, no matter what. Follow the instructions and do your research and don't get caught up on its success of failure. At least you had the courage to put your dreams out there. And what you will learn from the process will be invaluable. As I said above there are really silly ideas and projects that get full funding. However, many are valuable in one way or another. Make sure you emphasize how so. 

• Do research with key words on failed projects. It's important to know what NOT to do. If you just follow what to do, you will not know what to avoid and what you should do instead.
• Try to explain as much as you can to a few close people, discern whether they are truly interested in your project's success. This is just human nature. If you have tons of people all trying to do the same thing, the thought of competitive scarcity may lead people to not support you because they want to do the same thing. Explain your success is their success. It doesn't have to be a competition at all but a collaboration. 

• Pre-screen your supporters- Do a trial email, calls, posts to see how many people seem interested in your idea. Ask to to commit so supporting you one way or another. Even having them post, forward and share for you is very valuable. It surprising how many people will NOT press the little share button. It makes you wonder...

• Perks--The idea is for you to give perks, rewards and such to those who contribute. Explain people are not just giving you money. They are paying for something valuable. I was willing to give a full song download for as little as a $1 contribution, along with mentions.

• If you are fortunate enough to have a marketing team/PR team, utilize it fully. Even if you don't use whatever network you do have, neighbors, co-workers (if at a traditional job), friends, family, and of course social media). It seems like common sense but it is unbelievable how many people don't use the resources they have. Use what you've got baby!

• Each crowdfuding site had its own criteria for helping you promote. Find out what it is. As I said, for me and Indiegogo it was to reach at least 20% of the total goal then you get featured and tada!! You get promoted and much funding from that alone. So the amount you choose originally for your project matters. It is much harder to get 20% of $35,000 than it is for $350.

My Lesson
Failure and success are relative terms. And believe me I've been on the failure rodeo plenty of times. I was very reluctant to launch my campaign. I was fearful it would not go through. Guess what, it didn't go through and I survived! Oh but I learned so much. 

For instance: 
-How the process continues to evolve. Crowdfunding is here to stay in some way, form or another. 
-How people in your life close are a far affect your goals and dreams--to the extent that you allow them. 
-What really matters to me. 
-How to accept failure and find the silver lining. And be creative to find something that is useful in the process. 
-That just because many did not support this project, doesn't mean I take it personally. I can absolutely tell who didn't quite understand what this process is, who is struggling financially, and who don't actually care to participate in what I do (and that is totally okay too). 
-To continue to do what I believe in for the ultimate higher good.

My advice: Stay strong with your project no matter what. There are always other ways to do it, move it forward, create it etc. Just keep loving what you do, learning and trusting your intuition at all levels and always. 

Do email me with any questions or comments and best of luck on your goals!

Infinite thanks to Sponsors of This Is Diana via the Indiegogo Campaign

Those who did contribute, listed below, have made it possible to continue my This Is Diana radio broadcasts on Blog Talk Radio, help with admin costs related to website, blog, events and most importantly the challenges that come with being an artists. 

~Barbara Stettner
~Luisa Poster
~Felicia Glucksman
~David Vernon
~Rick Bogart
~George and Francine Aline
~Dana Humprey-Whitegate PR
And a few Anonymous donors

A special thanks to ~Sady Manoel, M.D. for contributing directly to This is Diana

Diana Navarro, M.S.
On a Quest to Bring Manners Back!
www.Thisisdiana.com
Psychic--Empath with a Psychology background, Radio and Video Broadcast Producer/Host, Social Commentator/Speaker on Manners, Entertainer, Consultant and features topics on Lifestyle/Manners, Humor, Entertainment, Health, The Paranormal and Causes.

Radio Show Address: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/this-is-diana
Radio Listener dial-in number: (347) 857-3160

More Contact info:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/This-Is-Diana/135169706521596?ref=hl

• Email: Dianan4839@aol.com

$1 In Less than 11 Days For Music/Animal Rescue Combo Campaign On Indiegogo

What is Needed
The time is almost up for my Indiegogo campaign to fund my first album and give a percentage to animal rescue. Many have told me they didn't know about this project so I'm sending the information again.

As little as $1 in the next 11 days that each person adds can still make it happen. If you want to participate please click here: Diana's Music Project

The Project,

I've always believed that music is the universal language...

Growing up in New York City, I was exposed to music early on because my family would be invited to Churches in all five boroughs and we would perform music them for them. Being bilingual I sang in both English and Spanish. But as years went on, school and life to precedence and music was just an occasional hobby. 

Many years later I experienced a spiritual awakening and my life changed. Priorities shifted and being creative was the biggest pull I felt. I slowly reacquainted myself with one of my favorite genres, songs from the American Songbook, by vising New York venues where there was live music. Magic began to happen for me.

There is no shortage of singers and music but I had the pleasure to meet and work with many of the professionals who have been in the business for years. They welcomed and took me in. With no official technical training they knew I had natural ability, passion and heart when I sing. Almost a decade later I have had the pleasure of doing professional shows and even showcases for other singers regularly. I recently however felt it was time to do an album like most of my colleagues, but in with Spanish songs added, as well as live show to follow via Indiegogo

Crowdfunding

I heard about this process called crowdfunding where one can launch a creative or project campaign by promoting to the public. The public would in turn get "perks" in return for their contributions. I created a campaign in to of the main sites, Kickstarter and Indiegogo but did not launch it on Indiegogo until 2 years later. I wanted to create enough of a reputation at creating events, doing radio broadcasts, and singing to properly present it. I added a personal component to give a percentage to an animal rescue group, since that is one of my passions---do see no animal hurt, neglected, abused, etc. 

Every bit counts in projects like these so even a single $1 can and will help. With less than 11 days left you or someone you know who loves music performed with heart can make this happen.

All info can be found here  and of course Thank you to those who have already supported this. 

With Light. Love and OM
Diana Navarro, M.S.
www.Thisisdiana.com
Psychic--Empath with a Psychology background, Radio and Video Broadcast Producer/Host, Social Commentator/Speaker, Entertainer, Consultant and features topics on Lifestyle/Manners, Humor, Entertainment, Health, The Paranormal and Causes.

Radio Show Address: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/this-is-diana
Radio Listener dial-in number: (347) 857-3160

More Contact info:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/This-Is-Diana/135169706521596?ref=hl

• Email: Dianan4839@aol.com