Where ambitious young professionals connect and grow

Michael Felberbaum
Hamden, CT
Coach & Founder, NumeSpot LLC
Career/Life Coaching
Fans (148)
Following (146)
Groups (18)

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TOP IDEA: Laura McCallum Anyone out there read the Rich Dad, Poor Dad Series? Thoughts on financial literacy?

112 weeks ago

JRandom42: My father, a successful businessman, taught me financial literacy:

"Income should always exceed outgo"

"Do not give the government cause to ...More
My father, a successful businessman, taught me financial literacy:

"Income should always exceed outgo"

"Do not give the government cause to investigate your finances"

"Spend some, give some, save some"

"If the financial terms can't be explained in less than 100 words, walk away from the deal"

"Trust but verify all statements"

"The quickest and easiest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket"

"If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is"

"Attempt to fool the tax man at your peril"

"Double check any advice you get"

43 weeks ago
Carrie Clark: @JenG: Hahaha! That sure sounds like a compliment to me.
110 weeks ago
Ashley Evans: I think that being optimistic is a must. Why live a life of worry and negativity? Life wouldn't be any fun, I wouldn't have a reason to get up in ...MoreI think that being optimistic is a must. Why live a life of worry and negativity? Life wouldn't be any fun, I wouldn't have a reason to get up in the morning if there wasn't something to look forward to.
109 weeks ago
Chris Williams: Jake,

I like the post, I always like to remember that just because something takes a long time and may be hard that that somehow means it's ...More
Jake,

I like the post, I always like to remember that just because something takes a long time and may be hard that that somehow means it's important and/or productive. This just reminded me to keep that in mind! Thanks!

Chris

105 weeks ago
Jake LaCaze: I'm glad you enjoyed the post, Chris. Sometimes we all need a little help keeping things in perspective.
105 weeks ago
 
Jamie Nacht Farrell I hate when someone looks at my career and says, "You're so lucky". Am I really? Or is it about a combination of skill, desire for continuous improvement, tenacity, etc? How do you respond when someone says, "you're so lucky"? I contend that it's not luck, but about CHOICES and what we choose to prioritize in our life at different times; Wrote about my response here: http://bizrelationships.wordpress.com/2010/08/01/how-humble-do-i-have-to... Thoughts?

94 weeks ago from Objectivists, Shotgun Startups, Creating a Life You Love, Consultants R US and Entrepreneurs3 more

Frank E. Warren: Lighten up... the two of you are both too young to place this kind of stress upon yourselves. Certainly, be proud of your accomplishments - you ...MoreLighten up... the two of you are both too young to place this kind of stress upon yourselves. Certainly, be proud of your accomplishments - you have earned it.
Working hard can be a "gift" that you offer to yourself. When viewed in this manner, hard work becomes a more pleasant experience. Think too, of all the people in the world who have never heard a kind word from their parents. It may help you appreciate your mother's pride, even if you are uncomfortable with her words.
And, since you both have made the choice to work hard, celebrate your achievement and be happy about it... and remember it is a gift that you have offered yourselves.
Peace,

92 weeks ago
Jessica Bahr: Luck happens when preparation and opportunity meet. It's not luck, its the reward for hard work.
84 weeks ago
 
Michael Felberbaum Thanks Jason. I'm all for it. Interested in bartering coaching for graphic design/web design work...

72 weeks ago from Barter on Brazen

 

72 weeks ago

 
JR Moreau As someone who's freelanced, I must say coworking spaces are the best! I love how collaborative they are (and generally affordable)

134 weeks ago from Coworking

Timothy Johnson III: Oh, co-working is definitely all about the synergy. JR, if you're out here in New Jersey, you should definitely come by for a visit!
93 weeks ago
V. Holman: I love the coworking space here in raleigh, NC called designbox. The only thing I dislike is it closes at 6pm. Most of us work a full time while ...MoreI love the coworking space here in raleigh, NC called designbox. The only thing I dislike is it closes at 6pm. Most of us work a full time while we build our biz. After hours is much needed.
75 weeks ago
 
Michael Felberbaum How do you know you’re doing a good job? -- measuring performance for the self-employed http://bit.ly/9yOUjQ

92 weeks ago from Productivity & Time-Management

 
Michael Felberbaum Be interested to see what you think of my latest post on measuring your performance if you are self-employed http://numespot.com/2010/08/how-are-you-doing/

92 weeks ago from Entrepreneurs

Jamie Nacht Farrell: All great ideas; thank you - I will incorporate. Something it made me think to do is to send clients an "assessment" when completing a project. ...MoreAll great ideas; thank you - I will incorporate. Something it made me think to do is to send clients an "assessment" when completing a project. Instead of asking the overall, "how did I do?" which is a broad question - perhaps a 10 question assessment with specific questions makes sense?
92 weeks ago
Laura McCallum: Great, job, Michael! I left you some feedback.
92 weeks ago
 
TOP IDEA: Harriet May Making start-up money, and why I try not to focus on salary - http://www.brazencareerist/2010/08/12/making-start-up-money-and-why-i-tr...

92 weeks ago

Michael Felberbaum: I don't think it's every possessions themselves that make us happy -- it's what those things do for us. New clothes make a statement. A new TV ...MoreI don't think it's every possessions themselves that make us happy -- it's what those things do for us. New clothes make a statement. A new TV allows for more enjoyable viewing.

This may sound out there, but I think the whole idea of "consumption" is faulty. It's not like most material goods are edible. We really are "users" of stuff -- users of TV sets and cars, clothing and sofas. That's why experiences and vacations are a good use of money -- because they recognize that the value is always in experience anyway -- it's rarely in consumption.

Thanks for an interesting post.

92 weeks ago
Harriet May: @Ryan I think for me, I am so early into my career that right now I can afford to put experience way before salary (way, way, way before salary). ...More@Ryan I think for me, I am so early into my career that right now I can afford to put experience way before salary (way, way, way before salary). Of course the potential of a bigger salary motivates me to work hard so that I can make the most of opportunities as they come. Money is really only a medium through which you garner the freedom to do more, which I think from what you said means a lot of the same things to me as to you (travel, house, marriage, etc). But since Jason and I have effectively no debt, I've just opened an IRA, and we're both making a conscious effort to save what we can, I feel like we're taking the right steps towards creating our own stability, even though I work for a start-up and he works in the car business (which I'm learning is almost as unstable as a start-up!). And really, the adventure has only just begun, right??

@Max I agree. Cash does open a lot of doors. The key I think comes from deciphering when you're making a valuable-- in terms of experience and meaningfulness-- purchase over acquiring things for the sake of it. That's always going to be different for different people. An imported car, for instance, might be a status symbol for one person but for another it might be a hobby and a childhood dream. A lot of it is about staying true to yourself and your long-term financial goals over impulse shopping-- sometimes I struggle with that.

@Michael That's a great point. That leads me to a conclusion similar to Max's comment: that it's about knowing who you are as a consumer/user, so that you are able to make the wisest choices when spending. That way, all your purchases will hold some kind of emotional value, and that's meaningful when it comes to seeking happiness.

92 weeks ago
 
TOP IDEA: Michael Felberbaum I see every business as an "experiment in value." I say "experiment" because every business owner is trying to determine through trial and error what will be more valuable to customers. I say "value" because the relationship between business and customer determines value; it's relative and undetermined until it's offered.

94 weeks ago

 
Michael Felberbaum Fellow entrepreneurs: I'm offering a complimentary coaching session this week only for those who are in start-up or early stage mode. The 30 minute session will focus on core strengths and unique value. Contact me if you'd like to clarify your offerings.

94 weeks ago from Entrepreneurs

Jamie Nacht Farrell: I'm in neither right now, but would love to observe...
94 weeks ago
Michael Felberbaum: Thanks Jamie. Would love your observations!
94 weeks ago
 
Ryan Paugh I got interviewed this morning by a reporter who wanted to discuss Generation Y's heightened interest in Parks & Recreation careers and other careers related to the environment, conservation and the outdoors. Do you think that this has to do with inherent Gen-Y traits or the opportunities made available to use through social media. Are we more idealistic, or just more connected?

106 weeks ago from Green Social Media and Green and Environmental industries

Chris Williams: I think it has to go with our generation no wanting to comprise. We want to heal the environment but don't think business needs to suffer for this ...MoreI think it has to go with our generation no wanting to comprise. We want to heal the environment but don't think business needs to suffer for this to happen.
105 weeks ago
Megan Atkinson: I think that there are two major factors in the number of Gen Y'ers in green collar jobs. The availability of green jobs has increased because of ...MoreI think that there are two major factors in the number of Gen Y'ers in green collar jobs. The availability of green jobs has increased because of their social relevance. Also, I think Gen Y'ers may be more interested in the field (regardless of job availability) because we've been brought up under the pressure of "having to live with the mistakes of the past" and when the social relevance became more socially relevant, we were coming into the age(s) where we decide on a direction for our career.
98 weeks ago
 
TOP IDEA: Jon Bishop College for all? Experts say not necessarily. Do you think we are missing the "mind-opening effect of an undergraduate degree" or is it time we make "certification as the new education currency — documentation of skills as opposed to mastering curriculum." http://bit.ly/dvdXcd - via www.msnbc.msn.com

104 weeks ago from I am Gen Y and Entrepreneurs

: Randy-I know how you feel. My son has just finished his first year of college and he often takes a very 'superior' attitude with me. He believes ...MoreRandy-I know how you feel. My son has just finished his first year of college and he often takes a very 'superior' attitude with me. He believes what he's been taught over my business experience. It can be frustrating and counterproductive at times. Carole
104 weeks ago
Jamie Nacht Farrell: Having had my career in the higher ed industry, we've been looking at this question for a long time now. My opinion: No, college is not for ...MoreHaving had my career in the higher ed industry, we've been looking at this question for a long time now. My opinion: No, college is not for everyone. We (the US) has shown that very specified certifications in certain industries are even more important. Let's take IT for example. Far more people get hired based on the amount of MCSC, C++, etc certifications they have...unless it is a CIO position, formal edcation is not usually looked for.
102 weeks ago
 
Cameron Plommer What is the best business/personal development/professional development book you've ever read? I'd like to know your all-time favorite as well as the best book you've read that is 0-3 years old. Some of the new books that are my favorites are Making Ideas Happen, Rework, Switch and Linchpin. Two of my all-time favs are How To Win Friends and Good To Great

105 weeks ago from Book Shelf, Entrepreneurs, Professional Development and Personal Development2 more

Mike Ambassador Bruny: All time favorite: Falls in the personal development is "The Power of Focus"

Career Development: "What Color is Your Parachute" <--helped me ...More
All time favorite: Falls in the personal development is "The Power of Focus"

Career Development: "What Color is Your Parachute" <--helped me get clear on what I have to offer the world and where I want to offer it. I picked it up when I was at a low point and have never looked back since.

@Kiran: I just finished reading, "Leadership and Self-Deception" very powerful stuff, have you read this book from the same authors that is the pre-quel?: "The Anatomy of Peace."


104 weeks ago
Mike Ambassador Bruny: @Cameron: I'm working on cliff notes as well. Rock on brother!
104 weeks ago
 
Lance Haun How well do you know your recruiting process? Dr. Sullivan had an interesting post this week about identifying failure points in recruiting (http://www.ere.net/2010/05/10/the-steps-of-the-recruiting-process-%E2%80...) and I am wondering how many of you keep a close track on your process? I know I certainly did not initially and spent a lot of wasted time fleshing out our process later.

106 weeks ago from ERE on Brazen, Corporate Talent Acquisition, Recruiters Unite! and Human Resources2 more

Josh Allan Dykstra: I certainly don't mean to imply that we shouldn't create processes or steps; I just think most of our systems are completely out-of-control ...MoreI certainly don't mean to imply that we shouldn't create processes or steps; I just think most of our systems are completely out-of-control complex. I'm encouraging leaders to take a hard look at the structures we tend to blindly follow (not that anyone here is doing that, but it's happening in many places) and instead try to peel back a layer. To look "under the hood" and ask: are our systems actually getting us the results we want?
106 weeks ago
Tony Deblauwe: Over process and having the tools run the system. That is the #1 failure over knowing your talent, having a workforce plan, and communicating a ...MoreOver process and having the tools run the system. That is the #1 failure over knowing your talent, having a workforce plan, and communicating a solid brand and work environment people want to work for.
101 weeks ago
 
Sabera (Kapasi) Photographer I am currently working on 2 career paths - Marketing / Cooking education. While I have an MBA in Marketing, I also have a passion for Indian food and cooking. I do a lot of consulting and volunteer work in Marketing, and recently began Indian food cooking classes. What surprises me is that I'm equally passionate about nurturing both career paths. How do you feel about working 2 jobs? How would you prioritize your time and resources between them?

106 weeks ago from Slash Jobs

Bryon Ownby: Gosh, for me, there are so many things that I have interest in, leadership/learning fields, music, digital photography, performing arts (not to ...MoreGosh, for me, there are so many things that I have interest in, leadership/learning fields, music, digital photography, performing arts (not to forget socializing). If all of those could be placed in one job, it would scare me!! I would say that if it wasn't for the volunteer roles that I have taken on to help hone my leadership skills, I probably would not be at the place where I am career wise. Early in my career, I wasn't given much leadership roles (although I had many many roles while in college). It's been an unique challenge to get the corporate environment to see the skill set that I have (so until then, I have continued to lead outside of work). Now they are beginning to recognize this (but may be too late).
106 weeks ago
Sabera (Kapasi) Photographer: @Carlee - Thanks for the link! I've put the book on my reading list! Hopefully we can share notes on the book once I'm done reading it.

@Rebecca ...More
@Carlee - Thanks for the link! I've put the book on my reading list! Hopefully we can share notes on the book once I'm done reading it.

@Rebecca - I know precisely what you mean. I took up french classes when I worked in advertising fulltime back in India and found that it took so much effort to be equally dedicated to both! I loved learning the language, but work drained me over the week.

I'm posting an update here on a separate discussion topic I just thought of!

@Bryon - Isn't volunteering THE BEST? I never realized how fulfilling it was till I started doing it. And with you on pursuing other interests while volunteering.

I know what you mean about developing skills outside work. I keep drawing comparisons to India because I feel like so much is different here. But back there, a manager didn't really evaluate your achievements outside work to give you better projects at the workplace. Here, at least you get a chance.

105 weeks ago
 
Ryan Paugh I rarely eat breakfast. I'm just not hungry first thing in the morning. Not too mention, as soon as I wake up I'm already running out the door. I'm realizing that this habit poorly affects my brain power at work. Any suggestions for what I can do?

106 weeks ago from I Love to Cook!, Brazen Foodies and Health and Nutrition1 more

Bryon Ownby: @Ryan, I've been like this my whole life until the past year. My experiment, it does help with AM brain drain - more than I realized (although my ...More@Ryan, I've been like this my whole life until the past year. My experiment, it does help with AM brain drain - more than I realized (although my brain doesn't really function until after 10am and stops at 2am). Anything that's halfway nutritious will work (and a little caffeine doesn't hurt).
103 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh: @Bryon -- Caffeine is one of my problems! I drink a lot of coffee and if I don't eat enough I get jittery.

I'm not a morning person either. It ...More
@Bryon -- Caffeine is one of my problems! I drink a lot of coffee and if I don't eat enough I get jittery.

I'm not a morning person either. It takes me til around 10AM to really get my brain going. I spend the morning doing administrative tasks that don't take too much of my brain power.

103 weeks ago
 
Patrick Ambron Sparked a little debate yesterday. MSNBC wrote an under-researched article about Social Media and the Job Search. She concluded social media was not an effective vehicle to use in your job search. However, research is showing that its an incredibly useful tool (used correctly). What do you guys think? Is social media an effective way to get your foot in the door? How or how not? http://ow.ly/1KC2H

106 weeks ago from Personal Branding

Michael Felberbaum: It's incredible to me how the debate is whether social media works or not. Social media is just a forum, a venue, a tool -- what matters is how ...MoreIt's incredible to me how the debate is whether social media works or not. Social media is just a forum, a venue, a tool -- what matters is how people use it. Lots of good comments here, so I don't need to reiterate and preach to the choir...
106 weeks ago
Sean Masters: @Michael remember though that the effectiveness of a tool will make or break it in the long run. We humans are all about efficiency and ...More@Michael remember though that the effectiveness of a tool will make or break it in the long run. We humans are all about efficiency and effectiveness (or at least we like to think we are!)
106 weeks ago
 
TOP IDEA: Michael Felberbaum Someone asked me recently whether all career/life coaching was really just about self-esteem. I don't think so. I believe a healthy self-concept can be developed without having any career direction whatsoever. A person can be completely and utterly lost and still feel good about themselves. How? Some people can embrace the wandering cluelessness associated with not having a path. They can appreciate the spontaneity and freedom of it...

106 weeks ago

 
Erin Lariviere What can you accomplish in 15 minutes? We just posted about the power of the 15 minute meeting. The shorter duration can create a sense of urgency that keeps people on track, and it's amazing what you can accomplish in 15 minutes. Post here: http://www.tungle.me/Home/blog/sometimes-shorter-is-better-welcome-to-th... Now it's your turn - what can you accomplish in 15 minutes?

106 weeks ago from Tungle.me - Meetings made easy, Productivity & Time-Management and Social Media1 more

Dain: @Erin Interesting thought. I think you may have a point with people afraid to have meetings shorter because the content of the meeting will have ...More@Erin Interesting thought. I think you may have a point with people afraid to have meetings shorter because the content of the meeting will have less importance. I have been to quite a few meetings where everyone wants to voice their own opinion and get their 2 cents in. They will give opinions but are not willing to help or take action on their opinion. Longs meetings create talk and no action. (again if there is not a certain goal in mind for the meeting as well as a duration cut off) 15 min is great :)
106 weeks ago
Jamie Nacht Farrell: @Michael; solid point - especially with Geico. great call.
106 weeks ago
 
Rebecca Thorman Just read some interesting research about the science of commitment (http://nyti.ms/bMpCjV). The most interesting bits to me were when they talked about how scientists speculate that your level of commitment may depend on how much a partner enhances your life and broadens your horizons. They theorize that couples who explore new places and try new things will tap into feelings of self-expansion, lifting their level of commitment. Sounds like a ringing endorsement for power couples to me!

106 weeks ago from Power Couples

Brandy Brown: I think the traveling together thing is the least interesting point to this research personally - we've all heard that before haven't we?? Here ...MoreI think the traveling together thing is the least interesting point to this research personally - we've all heard that before haven't we?? Here was my favorite part, "To measure this quality, couples are asked a series of questions: How much does your partner provide a source of exciting experiences? How much has knowing your partner made you a better person? How much do you see your partner as a way to expand your own capabilities?"

I used to say I wanted a symbiotic relationship - just because AP BIO II was my favorite class. Then I finally had one - and that to me tells me why this time I'm deeper in love than I have ever been, happier, feel like a better person who is more productive than I have ever been before, and am more willing to compromise etc. in this relationship. Because he does constantly expand my capabilities - and I know it, and I value that so very much I'd never want to give him up.

106 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman: I totally agree Brandy. My favorite part of the article, but I couldn't fit it in my first comment was that couples who succeed in challenges ...MoreI totally agree Brandy. My favorite part of the article, but I couldn't fit it in my first comment was that couples who succeed in challenges together are more apt to stay committed. So the new stuff doesn't just have to be fun stuff like travel, but perhaps helping each other succeed in business which is why I thought it was relevant to the Power Couple network :)
106 weeks ago
 
Penelope Trunk I'm decorating the farm house (hooray!) and I'm working with a color consultant. I loved her blog, so I thought I'd try out the idea. (colourmehappy.com.) I've learned SO much from her, the mistakes I would have made surprise me (like my woodwork clashed with the paint I was choosing). This experience reminds me of when I hired a resume consultant. I was shocked by how much better she made my resume. I wonder, what are other types consultants you guys have hired who made amazing changes for you?

106 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!

Delta Waters: landscape designer...i have a vision but don't know how to implement it...
106 weeks ago
Cary Thomson: Technically I didn't hire her but I set great store by Paula Begoun's advice on cosmetics and skin care. So much so that I have a subscription to ...MoreTechnically I didn't hire her but I set great store by Paula Begoun's advice on cosmetics and skin care. So much so that I have a subscription to her website at beautypedia.com. Her team has reviewed thousands of individual products so it's invaluable for putting together a skin care routine that meets your budget and actually works.
104 weeks ago
 
Melissa Breau I frequently find that I get so caught up trying to get something perfect that I never manage to get it done. I found myself doing this recently (http://wp.me/pPuvU-2P) and had to say enough was enough. Is anyone else guilty of standing in their own way?

106 weeks ago from Entrepreneurs

Alan Koskelin: It's certainly an old problem. Coincidentally, about a week ago, I added a Voltaire quote to my profile: "The perfect is the enemy of the good."
106 weeks ago
Melissa Breau: @michael - thank you for the thoughtful comment! I agree that sometimes the best option is stepping away from the issue and consulting someone you ...More@michael - thank you for the thoughtful comment! I agree that sometimes the best option is stepping away from the issue and consulting someone you trust. It's definitely tough to make the call sometimes though...

@Paul - that's an interesting concept, but I'm not sure it applies to my situation. See, I'm starting my own freelance writing business and need to choose a name. A name isn't something you can work at 20% but it is a major step in the process, and until it's done a lot of things have to sort of be on hold.

@Alan Great quote! Thanks for the comment.

106 weeks ago
 
TOP IDEA: Michael Felberbaum Do you have a theoretical to-do list? In other words, are the items on your to-do list things that you want WANT to do, but have no real commitment to doing? So, in THEORY it would be GREAT if the bathrooms were clean and the book was finished... Does that mean you are GOING to do it?

106 weeks ago

Groups (18)

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Fans (148)

Dave Sawyer
Tyler Wasden
Scott Asai
Rachel Lawley
Curtis
Rodger Avila
Cameron Plommer
Allison Cheston
Melissa Breau
Tom

Following (146)

Mehul Kar
Shelley Senai
Carrie Clark
Jason H. Parker
Alexandra Levit
Laura McCallum
Cathy Finn
Jonathan Hung
Scott Messinger
JenG