found us, Isle of Mull, Peter Cobley, Oban
Peter Cobley
found us - business consulting and headhunting
found us - business consulting and headhunting
UKAT
Peter Cobley
UKAT (here we go again...)
UKAT (here we go again...)
Isle of Mull, Tobermory, Peter Cobley
Peter Cobley
Turning on the Tobermory Christmas Lights
Turning on the Tobermory Christmas Lights
Peter Cobley
Peter Cobley
Tobermory photos. found us. End of the week.
Tobermory photos. found us. End of the week.
Peter Cobley
Peter Cobley
“The pen is mighter than the sword”
“The pen is mighter than the sword”
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Castlefield Gallery - a late appearance for myself

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Resonance and Remnants (2023) - Omid Asadi

I am a bit remiss in having passed this gem of a gallery that has been sat adjacent to Deansgate train station for 40 years. Thankfully I visited the gallery with friends for a private viewing and brainstorming session, Monday 11th December 2023. What a wonderful thing it is!

Omid Asadi’s work did make me think indeed. In Iran dandelion seeds landing on you are viewed as signifying a message that is yet to come, so a dream in one sense. If you look closely enough, or view the exhibition you’ll see that the floor is blanketed by dandelion seeds, thousands of them all signifying dreams, a floor of dreams yet to come or already in existence. Surrounding and puncturing the dreams are memories; an old wall, a telephone, a paraffin heater in this case, surrounded by the words of an Iranian poet killed by the regime emanating from an old Sharp cassette player.

These are Asadi’s dreams and memories from his past. All in juxtaposition. And I found resonance with this. I dream, we all dream, and we all have memories which are dreams. Dreams of the past. And it is a stimulating thing to think of myself dreaming of the past, of maybes and things yet to come and that may never come, whilst living in the here and now.

The exhibition made me think of a much simpler youth, of my past, especially the old style telephone, as did the surrounding and derelict building. And I dream all the time of the past and maybes which the dandelions signify. So for me it was both poignant and reminded me that I whilst I live and connect in the present, which is the concrete, dreams are am ever present part of my present. So the term, one day at a time, or one moment at a time is a much wider and unconstrained concept.

The sister exhibit contains storage boxes both old and new collected from various sources all stacked and ready to be opened. I myself think this a statement of people’s unopened dreams stacked away for use, sometimes never opened.

About Castlefield Gallery

“We are a contemporary art gallery and artist development organisation. Established in 1984, we’ve led the way in artist development for almost 40 years. We provide creative and career development, exhibition opportunities and commissions for artists and independents. We work from our galleries in Manchester, off-site, online and in the public realm. We create long-lasting impacts in our city region, North West and beyond. Our national and international activities focus on artist exchange. Castlefield Gallery’s public and participation programmes provoke new ways of thinking, bringing together artists, creatives, communities and audiences to explore the art and issues of our time. We believe when artists and communities come together they can help shape a better world.”

https://www.castlefieldgallery.co.uk/about/


Remember, today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday - Dale Carnegie

I thought I’d write a blog post revolving around “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” written by Dale Carnegie.

I have known about Dale Carnegie and his writings for many years. He, I suppose, was the first self help Guru drawing on his experiences, and I would strongly suggest listening or reading the book I focus on. This is a man who met the likes of Laurence of Arabia across to Rockefeller.

He died in 1955 but I honestly think that this book is a vital read for learning not to worry and living in the moment. His life spanned the turn of the century, the rise of capitalism, and the rise of great men who have somewhat disappeared from popular vernacular.

What is important…

That Carnegie spoke from experience and tried and tested methods in a time where there was no Social Media or as I coin it, the “Cult of the Personality.” This book I feel is a vital read for any person who works in a demanding career or for that matter is ambitious, or wants to succeed in an ethical manner, but also enjoy the simple things like a family life. The book is not full of the trite shite that we now see with a lot of “self help” specialists or posted on Social Media. That in my opinion are too easily believed and not backed up by lived experience. So get a copy and read.

Remember, today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday

I have been listening to the Audible version of his book and this quote from the book really stuck in my mind. I suspect a number of people have read of the contemporary Eckart Tolle and his “The Power of Now” and will understand this quote and the book for that matter. In worrying about what may happen you do not live in the moment, which is your actual reality. Worrying as to what if’s is living in a false reality. Living in the now and actioning the now is how one should live, and please note this does not mean you cannot dream, nor plan. Carnegie with his book and specifically quote nails it, and keep re-reading the quote until it sinks in.

I also believe Calvin’s philosophy should be observed - real time keeping it in the moment….

Joys of Good Search Marketing - searchup

PLEASE CALL OR E-MAIL ME FOR A CHAT, TO DISCUSS A FREE SEARCH MARKETING AUDIT.

(excuse the caps and sales pitch, but we are worth talking to - you’d be surprised as to us and our clients!)

Oh, and PLEASE READ below…

Here’s searchup……..

I enjoy many things: eating, sleeping, fell running and so on. From a work perspective I enjoy searchup and here’s why….

I have been working with searchup since last year, initiated via an old contact Terry McCusker. And I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I’ve been able to get back into Search, close up and dirty, which takes me fondly back to 2002 and the later years.

I’d started my foray into Paid Search when setting up the Goto.com/Overture office in Manchester back in 2003; later I was to be accustomed with SEO. It was a very early period in Search history with Goto.com having invented the sponsored pay per click listing in SERPS (Search Engine Results) that Google was to copy (see legal ding dong as to the history of it all…) and monetise, and then the rest my lad and lass is history.

I was given me a great grounding in PPC and other digital advertising charging models, and stepping stone into what was to become Programmatic etc. In hindsight I was rewarded with a great deal of knowledge for which I am grateful.

Fast forward to April 2023 and I collect my thoughts after two weeks away in The Lakes and Oban. I have an open diary and am planning to chat to people about searchup, why I like working with them, and just how good a Search agency that they are.

  1. Being at Goto.com, Overture, Yahoo!, I Spy Marketing (sold to iProspect), and IMA HOME I know a good Search agency when I see one, plus my working on clients ranging from the Coop across to Citibank. And searchup are good. Read below.

  2. For the money orientated ones, searchup offer free Search Audits, produced confidentially. From this you will get useful Search Marketing information, especially with an e-Commerce bias and yes gratis. (We have faith in doing this.)

  3. Searchup specialise in helping grow the Search Marketing and Analytics for start ups and small to medium sized businesses, and this does not necessarily correlate to business turnover. “Small is beautiful”.

  4. Have a look at the Case Studies on the website. Searchup delivers results utilising Search, hence looking after a number of retail led clients - from white goods to B2B.

  5. But what is crucial is how searchup uses retail data from clients, Search data and performance, to generate sales (depending on what is defined as sales) whilst enhancing client metrics, that could range from product margin across to SKU sales, to promotional campaigns pre/post results.

  6. I’ve not mentioned “OTHER stuff” and will do so here. Searchup delivers on campaign creative, website performance and optimisation, plus CPM or CPA driven campaigns using non-search channels where appropriate, or platforms such as mobile or touch point for example.

  7. Lastly we are technology bi-partisan and can advise on Venda across to Magento. We are good a putting heads under a businesses bonnet and reporting back, without sucking in breath.

Anyway enough of searchup…..

WHY NOT GIVE ME A CALL OR E-MAIL ME FOR A CHAT OR TO DISCUSS A FREE SEARCH, WEBSITE, COMMERCIAL DIGITAL MARKETING AUDIT?

And here are some holiday snaps from The Lakes and Oban over Easter by way of pleasant distraction.

"Rub-a-dub-dub" - What an earth are people up to?

“Rub-a-dub-dub Three men in a tub. And who do you hink they are? The butcher, the baker, the candle stickmaker . Run 'em down. Knaves all three”

Not blogged in a while and thought I would draw upon a very old nursery rhyme that most of us will remember but not necessarily realise its context. I draw upon it as I question the behaviour of people as of late. In a world that seems to be going mad., the rhyme rings true.

Origins and meaning

“The earliest versions of this rhyme published differ significantly in their wording. Dating back to the 14th century, the original rhyme makes reference to maids in a "tub" – a fairground attraction similar to a modern peep show. The rhyme is of a type calling out otherwise respectable people for disrespectable actions, in this case, ogling naked ladies – the maids. The nonsense "Rub-a-dub-dub" develops a phonetic association of social disapprobation, analogous to "tsk-tsk," albeit of a more lascivious variety. The nursery rhyme is a form of teaching such associations in folklore: for individuals raised with such social codes, the phrase "Rub-a-dub-dub" alone could stand in for gossip or innuendo without communicating all of the details.” Wikipedia

Calling out respectable people for disrespectable behaviour is not what I wish to do. For the most part we all posses volition and thus know right from wrong. This leads to me to bemoan the current state of affairs when I look to humanity globally and then again locally at home.

Where are we going as a race when Globally we think in nation states and argue with each other. Take Ukraine for example. What is it about?

Locally, we have a Government in power that seems to represent a certain echelon of society to the detriment of others.

The rhyme reminds us that we must cut though the image that is presented to us, the reality that is not true. At the moment we hear so many points of view in the form of Governments, Politicians and this mentality feeds down to society, and is also delivered via Media.

I suppose we need to stand up to such messaging and denounce it, and create a new narrative - I know this is possible as I work in Media. It then becomes a question of a) choosing to do this, and b) then doing it. We, I suspect, are already seeing this in some of the “anarchy” conservative society refers to. Maybe a new way that society and humanity deserves as people protest.

We cannot expect others to shower us “with meaning and happiness”. We need to join in to break the current narrative and rhetoric of those we disagree with, including organisations (“organisms” maybe) in order to make change. Einstein is rightly quoted that if you keep doing the same thing, and expect different results, then that is insanity. Are we as insane as those we refer to as being insane when we sit back, do nothing, and expect different results?

Maybe we all ought to read Beyond Good and Evil by Nietzsche? Yes, yes, yes, it is heavy going and a tad old, but it is an important text for today’s calamities.

Nietzsche challenges the traditional definition of good and bad as simplistic. It traps us into inaction. Nietzsche shows we are all human and it is how we ultimately express ourselves as output that defines who we are and our behaviour. After all there is good in the worse of us, and bad in the best of us. He challenges traditional morality and the aforementioned view of good/evil and pushes an affirmative approach to what we perceive and thus morality - we have volition. If we do not take affirmative action as an expression of our humanity, the very state of the modern individual is at risk, as is the societies we have built. And remember none of us are perfect.

Footnote:

I had not planned for this Blog entry to be a rant, and certainly don’t think it necessarily has to be interpreted in such a way. I have had a tough time in recent months, and honestly for a while even before these months. I have resurfaced so to speak, but different and learned from all I have tasted and learnt by way of experience. I think this is reflected in this Blog entry. In a way it is a statement of how I feel.


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Good Search Marketing from Peter Cobley and searchup

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It is November and we have two months left of Q4 and 2023. Thoughts are likely to be turning to Christmas sales, especially if eCommerce driven. What would they have been like in normal circumstances, let alone current trading conditions facing the UK and global economy; what with declining consumer confidence?

Such challenges can be exacerbated for the smaller growing business that does not have in-house resource for targeted Search Marketing, or its Digital Advertising Agency is not delivering a cost effective return on Search Marketing.

search up, the Search Marketing agency that I advise through found us, may be your solution.

  • The agency specialises in Search Marketing for smaller to medium sized businesses who cannot necessarily cover the Search Channel internally, or are not receiving return via their Advertising Agency.

  • searchup already works with, and delivers return for national eCommerce businesses.

  • The agency prides itself on its unique approach to PPC Search Marketing (also including Social Media), and importantly SEO.

  • Its approach is Data driven across Channels, but crucially works with and harnesses Client Sales Data and Management Information to achieve results.

  • I’ve seen many Search Marketing Agencies since my early days of Goto/Overture back in 2002, and decided to work with searchup based on their approach, results, ethics, and how they treat people. I was tired of “typical” Search Agencies. (I consult for searchup via my business - found us.)

  • Working with searchup we have achieved excellent Client results and have a look at searchup Case Studies

  • Don’t hesitate to get in touch for a chat, to find out more, or for advice. We are friendly, happy to help, and won’t just stick an invoice under your nose.

  • I can be contacted on peter@searchup.co.uk or 07876 684899.

    After all it's nearly Christmas and maybe you deserve that Present you’ve always wanted! - Peter Cobley

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Ello, We're SearchUp

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Well it is time after 8 plus years of being a solo entrepreneur to get involved with a lovely Search Marketing agency called SearchUp. As they say, “Your digital marketing is about to get a serious lift...”

I have known the wonderfully honest and funny Terry McCusker for a number of years and both of us share the same view on life; namely being honest, treat people nicely, do your best, and bring good to the world. Which is also applied to work and business.

So, a while back Terry and I spoke over SearchUp, a lovely little Search Marketing agency he is a director of. And I also met it’s original founder Craig Griffiths, who I have discovered is a Hong Kong Fooey of SEO. Terry and I are commercial, sales, account management etc. etc. etc. Hence our being older than Craig, and potentially more sarcastic. Craig is also a nice honest chap with ethics. This is why I got into business with them and more below on this.

SearchUp I discovered is very good at delivering sales results via Search for its clients, utilising technology and best practice to mirror and drive client metrics, sales and commercial needs. And all with honesty and transparency, and fun. Something that appealed to me bearing in mind how I run my consultancy, found us, and also having spent years in the cut and thrust of working in advertising and not necessarily ascribing to its darker side. Lastly, I originally come from a Search background, in the days of GoTo./Overture, and always enjoyed it.

So, I have decided to work with the guys two days a week as a Director to help them grow and reach more clients, or realistically like minded people in symbiotic or mutually beneficial relationships. Something I’ve always tried to do, i.e. help people you admire, aspire to, or want to plain help.

I’ve liked the fact that there is so much potential within SearchUp business for personal growth, and the growth of other people and their company, whilst everyone making some money in a happy manner.

Search is the core proponent of the business, and behind it all is a skilled utilisation of data and insights, marrying client sales and commercial metrics together with Search to deliver transparent results. SearchUp has rolling monthly contracts and also works to revenue share models, such are the results it delivers to new and long retained clients.

So, get in touch if you require help with your SEARCH marketing or analytics, needing to see a return on ad spend with comprehensive tracking.



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A room with a view - some musings.

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Yesterday I sat here and heard the cries of fun from the children in the Primary School beneath me, whilst looking at the view over the Moors. And I mused…

Misson Control - Sort of…

Yesterday was a good day as I cycled to and from meetings, whilst also bobbing into Aldi in Stalybridge. A lovely day, and a nice way to see the world at your pace and not speeding by. Which makes me think. What is pace? Or what is the correct pace? Hmmm.

We often talk about getting the balance right in life, which is correct, but I got thinking as to pace. Are we living at the correct pace, and what do I mean by this?

I realise now that pace is important and by pace I mean at what speed are we living life? It has taken me years to realise that pace can be habitual, i.e. get up, breakfast, travel, work, lunch, chores, work, home, leisure/work, bed, etc. etc. etc. We rush into habitual behaviour, like driving a car over 30mph and miss the scenery. We have a myopic view and if slower or paced we would look out of all windows of the car and appreciate what we see, and in slowing down have time to think, observe, and let the mind flow through its stream of consciousness.

Daniel Oliver in 1840 in First Lines of Physiology: Designed for the Use of Students of Medicine, when he wrote

“If we separate from this mingled and moving stream of consciousness, our sensations and volitions, which are constantly giving it a new direction, and suffer it to pursue its own spontaneous course, it will appear, upon examination, that this, instead of being wholly fortuitous and uncertain, is determined by certain fixed laws of thought, which are collectively termed the association of ideas.”

You need to make time for your mind to flow at a slower pace (mental) and for you to set aside time for you to sit in your thoughts, or slow the pace down (physical). In doing so you allow for a stream of consciousness within your mind and via analogous conscious and unconscious reasoning make associations with thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It leads to solutions, emotional stability, and a calmness in the moment. The troubling past sweeps by, and the hypothetical future does not eat up time or cause anxiety.

Also have a read of the following, it is a wonderful book that explains how we humans are creatures of habit, and of their impact on how we live, but do not yet realise.

”Me” time, or time to yourself, to think, to meditate, to be, is what I allude to. And something I have had to learn. Sit in the moment. Doing so allows one to break a habit routine, and to examine what one does in the moment. Now back to habits.

In The Power of Habit, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg researches and explores how habits grow into automatic behaviors that determine personal lives, businesses, and society. Unhealthy habits seem to difficult to break. He gives practical advice to help you understand, change, and develop good habits.

If you understand that you are existing to pre-ordained habits, you can break cycles that you operate in and free yourself to be happy, live in the moment, and achieve dreams. How hard do we find it to seemingly break out of where we are? Have you ever sat at the desk, head in hands, wondering about Groundhog Day, or is this all I have?

Today - Thursday 28th April - an approach

So it is roughly twenty past nine in the morning of Thursday 28th April, and I am finishing off this blog entry from yesterday whilst watching ending of The Power of the Dog which I watched a short while back but not finished.

Benedict Cumerbatch’s character Phil has died and it is the aftermath; atmospheric, severe, thoughtful. It engenders a stream of thought, of consciousness, as I sit here in the lounge, fire on, observing the film, where I am, letting my thoughts wander.

I think life is transient and ever changing, and do we really know what we or others think? All we have is the moment, and like the ending of the film, life is an enigma every second that we live in, as we are enigmas in our own thoughts. And like a babbling brook we should flow and happen. What will be will be, and we do not have to be slaves of habit.

Like the great space of Montana in the film where you can flee to, you can flee from the constraints of habit, or conditioned thinking as dictated by what you think you must think - influenced by upbringing, society. This allows for creativity and bucking the trend so to speak. Of reaching out and taking the moment.

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Monday 18th October. Fight, Flight, or Freeze?

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Well it is Monday 18th October, and it commences. What commences? Erm, life. And danger. Fight, flight, or freeze?

Danger. (With homage to Bill Watterson)

I think sometimes we can crave for security and avoid risk. Perfectly natural for humans, with quite a bit of their chimp ancestor in them struggling to survive in the jungle of life. And let us face facts, life today can be a bit of a jungle. Is it better to leg it and climb a tree than get into a scrape? And what is a scrape? A roller coaster, to a frightening presentation, to a challenging person or situation. The list is quite endless.

The standard approach of this evolved mammal is fight, flight, freeze. But I think we all know this. Well I hope so. I myself have never been much of a fighter and sit in the flight or freeze categories. Well I used to but have been lucky to have learnt a lot over the last few months which has really helped me to cope with stress, anxiety, or plain daft challenging people, or life situations, oh and the occasional animal.

I am soon to finish off The Chimp Paradox, which I have been meaning to read for a while. But never had the time and was, if honest, a bit loathe thinking it one of “those” books. But in hindsight, with 30 pages to go, it has been an informative read and quite a useful perspective on controlling one’s behaviour. Helping greatly with understanding stress, anxiety, fear, and how to cope with challenges fronted by people, places, and things.

Worth a read.

I have a strong belief when it comes to reading this type of book. I am trying to avoid the term “self-help” as I find that quite a patronising title. Your average human these days can read and write, and mostly find their way home. I think you can take what you need from what you learn and experience, and this also includes reading. We all have volition and can figure things out for the most part, aided by an internal moral compass and a few brain cells.

The premise of the book is to divide the brain into Chimp, Human, and Computer. One is the emotional primate, the other the moral and logical reasoning entity, the last the hardwired element that provides instructions for behaviour in situations.

What I learnt, well reinforced what I already know, in a nice and easy to consume fashion was that we have an emotional element to our brains that can override what makes us human, namely logic and community; being part of a community versus the self. And I can relate to this.

In a stressful situation such as running a head hunting business, living life, being married, owning a Terrier it can be hard and the Chimp in me can take control and the result negative outcomes. Mainly the fight element, or more better put as behaving like an arse with others or in situations. It manifests in selfishness, aggression, territorial dominance, across to hurting people. In real life this is me being nasty, not coping, getting stressed with people, the wife, business associates, the dog. I see myself put me first in a dominant resentful way, eyeballing fellow Chimps who I think are asserting their dominance over me. The Chimp reveals itself before the “human” can interject and assess the situation using pre-ordained and programmed logic from the “Computer” or memory, as developed by thinking and learning.

For example let us say I am dealing with a demanding candidate over a senior head hunting brief when running found us, my head hunting and consultancy business. The candidate is pestering me and not following process and interfering with my time and control of the brief. The Chimp in me becomes resentful, angry, frustrated, and this can lead to taking a chunk out of the candidate’s Chimp or worse. This does not endear itself to interpersonal relations which is key to head hunting. And it does not bode well for life in general. Do we all know two Chimps having a verbal scrap between man and wife? How we have felt afterward and the outcome? And regrets that we did not handle it better (the Human utilising the stored Computer information)?

So, how does one feed the Chimp bananas?

Really easily if you read the book, and it all makes sense. It is about keeping your internal Chimp calm and thus outsider’s Chimps calm.

The trick is to press “pause” on the Chimp behaviour thus giving enough time for the Human to take control of the brain processing of what to do next in a stressful, anxious, or challenging situation. The Human in the aforementioned example can say to themselves “pause” and “change”. Prof Peters recommends this, and guess what? It works. Two simple words. One to pause the Chimp and remind you of it and possible poor consequences. The second word to remind you that you can change how you handle this situation. A situation you undoubtable have witnessed before - someone trying to control you.

The Human can take charge and use logic to firstly understand the situation and secondly decide on a plan of action. You could for example arrange a call or Zoom with the candidate to explain the process involved for the brief and that you are acting diligently on their behalf, so calming their probably demanding Chimp. You can use prior learning from the Computer to handle the situation, knowing that getting Chimp angry will only anger their Chimp and it will more than likely go “Pete Tongue”.

Another method similar to the above is to use the 3 R’s.

Retreat - detach from the situation, take a breath, count to ten, walk around the block.

Re-Think - have a think about the situation, and don’t just observe you initial thought or behaviour. For example in the above, I might be initially inclined to view the candidate as an asshole or get angry. Letting the Human think assuages the first thought, with the second thought process asking and drawing on Computer experience; what is the best approach? And what is likely to happen if I get angry?

Respond - note the word, and not react. This is about taking calm logical morally driven action and behaviour. In my example I have explained the situation and importantly my position to the candidate. After all this is about my well being.

Have a read of the book to AVOID CHIMP CHAOS. Which we are all capable of.

Don’t be a Chimp (in public)

(With homage to Bill Watterson)

Happiness. Sunday 19th September 2021.

Not posted in a while. Variety of reasons. Today is about happiness. Today is about giggles, mischief, and fun. As personified by Roobarb and Custard. It is about being a child again, and these two characters featured in my childhood. Today is also about letting go of resentments. Because Roobarb and Custard always make up.

Well it is Sunday 19th September and I am happy, yes I am happy. And that is a good, good; well in fact a jolly good feeling after what has been a while and a number of tribulations. I hope my happiness rubs off on people, and I’ll muse below if you fancy a read. I will structure this all around animated cartoons from the years of growing up with particular HOMAGE paid to Cosgrove Hall Films.

You see cartoons can bring the child out of us, remind us of that simplicity and innocence that we hark back to, have lost, but can rediscover. It is about hanging about with pals and adventures.

It is time to go back in a time warp to easier times, when life has been hard with Brexit, Covid.

Roobard and Custard - Anarchy and Living in the Moment

These two hooligans for me sum up what being alive is all about. Anarchy and living in the Moment. So simple, yet so crucial. We should reach into the past as a reminder, but we ought not to live in the past for that is an artifice. Roobard and Custard are cartoon animals, and like animals they live in the here and now. We, mankind, can be foolish in our pursuit and analysis of what has passed and what may yet be. Through reading and meditation we can learn those skills of being in the moment. Being at peace within our story, our timeline.

Dangermouse - Friendship

When I look to Dangermouse and his endearing relationship with Penfold I smile. Through thick and thin we hear the cry of “Crumbs DM!” A now favourite phrase of mine instead of being a potty mouth and swearing.

Be rich in those friends you have, and above all cherish them for you have swift company, sound advice, and love. Do not forsake this or them.

Make friends and choose carefully. I though I’d chosen carefully, but clearly I did not. Do read further, and like myself find your peace in being proud of who you are. Dangermouse is Dangermouse, Penfold is Penfold, You are You.

Chorlton and the Wheelies - Don’t be put down or Judged

Chorlton the Dragon is the epitome of happiness. Simple, cheerful, and brings pleasure to the Wheelies. The is how I seek to be. A happy dragon who does not let the miserable and wicked Fenella the Kettle Witch get on top of him. To the un-initiated Fenella does not like people being happy.

To me, Fenella represents those individuals who fail to see the good, the happiness in life. They have lost direction. After all “… there is a bit of good in the worst of us and a bit of bad in the best of us…” Don’t let the Fenella’s of this world grind you down, or lead you to their way of living. Sadly such people will “crap” on you to make themselves feel better. In fact to justify what they do and how they behave.

Realise, Like Chorlton the happy Dragon, that you cannot control people, places, and things. Especially people. You focus on “keeping your side of the street clean”. Chorlton is oblivious to Fenella and happy. You concentrate on your “s**t” and let such people “keep their side of the street clean”. In doing so you obtain a freedom that is unbridled. (Have a read of The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama.)

When I had a meltdown in July and August of “quality” proportions it was somewhat interesting in retrospection to see who rallied around me. Yes, I was at fault and yes erratic to put it mildly, but I have seen both the humanity and the inhumanity. What opened my eyes to crisis, personal meltdown, and self-questioning were those who were not there for me. But over time I realise that harbouring resentments only bites you in the bum. A resentment is simply a fear. But a fear of what? Of not being liked, of being alone in my case.

But I reverse engineered my thinking and understood that you only have control over yourself and not others. So focus on you, since you will not change these people and how they act. And to harbour resentments ties you to the past, when we in fact live in the moment. Face your fears (resentments) and realise you are rich in this life.

I was lost but found by real people. True friends.

Jamie and the magic Torch - Always Dream

Can you remember Jamie and his dog Wordsworth? Ever night was a dream. As adults were stifle our inner child, our happiness, because we are sucked into the system we live in. I suggest you head off for a walk and pretend to be a child exploring, looking for adventure, mischief maybe. Go somewhere different, where you have not been, go alone. Re-connect with that sense of adventure and forget the present and its challenges. In re-connecting you feel that inner happiness you once felt as a carefree child. It creates a sense of peace, of happiness, of seeing the colours in the trees, the smell of the air.

Day dream of what could be, but don’t sit in melancholy. This will inspire you and potentially break a cycle you feel trapped in. How many of us have become subservient to a system and people that teaches us “it’s way of life”? You can but choose your own life if you dream and remember what you wanted as a child.

It is never too late. I’ve learnt that.

Mr Ben - We all “wear” Personas

“All the world’s a stage,

And all the men and women merely players;

They have their exits and their entrances;

And one man in his time plays many parts,”

Shakespeare - As You Like It, Act 2, Scene 7

Are we like Mr Benn?

We are ourselves when with ourselves. Only we are the true person when alone. In life we become players wearing a persona and it is healthy to be aware of this. It is not wrong, it is what we do. But be aware that you may be wearing a mask, and may not need to. Be true to yourself, read below. Note the part I have placed in BOLD.

“Yet here, Laertes? Aboard, aboard, for shame!
The wind sits in the shoulder of your sail,
And you are stay'd for. There- my blessing with thee!
And these few precepts in thy memory
Look thou character. Give thy thoughts no tongue,545
Nor any unproportion'd thought his act.
Be thou familiar, but by no means vulgar:
Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried,
Grapple them unto thy soul with hoops of steel;
But do not dull thy palm with entertainment
Of each new-hatch'd, unfledg'd comrade. Beware
Of entrance to a quarrel; but being in,
Bear't that th' opposed may beware of thee.
Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice;
Take each man's censure, but reserve thy judgment.
Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy,
But not express'd in fancy; rich, not gaudy;
For the apparel oft proclaims the man,
And they in France of the best rank and station
Are most select and generous, chief in that.
Neither a borrower nor a lender be;
For loan oft loses both itself and friend,
And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.
This above all- to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.
Farewell. My blessing season this in thee!”

Polonius to Laertes, Hamlet Act 1, Scene 3.

Sometimes we have to wear a mask, for example to accommodate people, e.g. when talking to a young child. But as an adult be true to yourself and speak your mind. If someone is p*****g you off, tell them. Do not stew in this because this does not lead to happiness. Make your happiness. Choose your happiness. So as you choose your mind set your behaviour will follow, as the happy sun follows the lonely darkness. I say darkness because in not being who we are we can lose ourselves in the dark.

Suggested Reading/Bibliography

  • The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama.

  • The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.

  • Irresistible: Why you are addicted to technology and how to set yourself free by Adam Atler.

  • The Chimp Paradox by Prof Steve Peters.

  • The Ocean at The End of The Lane by Neil Gaiman.

  • Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig.

  • What I talk about when I talk about Running by Haruki Murakami.

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The joys of fell running, Kerridge Ridge, and Haruki Murakami

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As I sit here after a good day, typing this blog, I reminisce to the days of late running the Saddle of Kerridge, to and from White Nancy and Kerridge Hill, and from there to further pastures. And what fun it has been.

Looking backwards to Kerridge Hill Trig, and village of Rainow in the Peak District.

I am currently spending some time with mother (“Muver”) at her establishment in Macclesfield. Try as I may I am not capable at 49 years of age of resisting being mothered, smothered, loved, told off, given advice, and needing to report in regularly. It is actually quite nice, and I’m having quality time with her. I am also quite thankful of my remembering to leave the toilet seat down.

Whilst here I am working found us, ticking the business along as the good ship navigates the choppy waters of Covid. But I have some time on my hands as industry begins to crank itself up. So what do I do?

Well I go fell running in the hills of my youth, where I grew up, and now realise have longed to return to. The isolation of solo running I’ve enjoyed. Myself and my thoughts, a drifting stream of consciousness that has allowed me to sort thoughts, worries, hopes and aspirations as I tread gingerly through the ever changing terrain. Wonderful.

White Nancy looking towards Bollington and Manchester city centre, wearing Merrell Nova Trail shoes.

I’ve really enjoyed myself and started around the 6 mile mark, and have now increased the distance to 12 miles with around 2k of climb as I take in the very much hidden Lamaload Reservoir that sits near to the Goyt Valley.

Lamaload Reservoir.

My latest run today was in wonderful weather and conditions; overall cool, with the sun breaking through the cloud cover at times. I was able to wear the sunglasses and simply enjoyed the freedom of being alone, getting fitter as I have put weight on, and have also not been running regularly.

STRAVA: https://www.strava.com/activities/5229383216

Haruki Murakami

All of this has made me think of a wonderful and book that I read a while ago. It is written by a Japanese author and whilst he is a crime writer, he loves running, and wrote “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running”. It is a wonderful book for anyone who solo runs and has a mind that is active. Have a read of it, it is well written, fascinating, and a perfect insight into the mind of the runner. It is clear we do not simply switch off when running, it enhances both the conscious and subconscious as we cover those miles.

Everyone needs a Mum (even at 49 and 6 months.)

Over in Macclesfield at the moment with “Muver”. This morning I was sat down and my hair cut, with help from Nicky Clake. Instructions issued, obeyed. I felt like I was a child again. It was nice.

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Life and reality are always in flux, such is the nature of the universe. Ever changing, ever morphing, becoming something that is (the present), and was (the past), and may be (the future). Time is always moving.

But one thing that fascinates me about life and Time despite all this, is how it repeats itself, is circular, and re-visits the past (though obviously not the same past, as that is impossible.)

And I had that experience today. And a reminder.

I needed a haircut, Mum has clippers. I could not be bothered walking to a local hairdresser and all the hassle that entails in the current climate. So… I was instructed to a) get a chair, b) get the Nicky Clarke clippers, plug them in c) sit down, d) do as told, e) no shirt and tie required, f) oh, and check the Dyson is charged.

Off she went on her Motherly mission whilst issuing instructions. These were not to be negotiated.

Time Travel

In one moment all of 49.5 years of life dissipated instantaneously. And I travelled back in time in my head and body to being a child. It was as though I was released from the worldly worries of being an adult. I felt safe, calm, happy, and enjoyed the haircut. I’d forgotten what it was like to have yourself placed in the complete control and hands of someone else. It was an actual relief.

(And my hair looks funky. I even used some No7 putty. Sexy beast.)

Some musings

Whilst feeling more comfortable, I mused and learnt a few new things. (Or re-remembered stuff.)

  • Everyone needs a MUM.

  • It is funny just how much responsibility and worry we take on as adults in the Western World. Which leads to angst, and constantly chasing our tails. No stopping to simply look at the birds in the air, the leaves on the trees.

  • But in one moment, that burden was released by my placing myself in the care of another, which got me thinking.

  • Maybe we need to engage more with those parents we still have, and be taken back and reminded of what it was to be a child, and placed in the care of another. It is fulfilling as a human being, and a reconnection with life.

  • Maybe we need to take time out in a quiet place to “send” ourselves back, or to be a child again to relive the adult burden, and contextualise our current life.

  • That is not to say you can take yourself out of your own personal reality as that is living in a illusion. But is can place things in perspective and maybe lead you to conclude that things are not that bothersome.

  • Maybe we can learn to “hand over” to another. A loved one, a friend, a colleague, reminding ourselves of what it was to be a child. To have someone look after us and relieve the burden of modern life. After all none of us I suspect are that strong. A singular tree can be torn down by an inclement wind, but a tree in a forest has a better chance.

Guess the ages?

Guess the ages?

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Why I like Fell Running, and a long overdue visit to Teggs Nose.

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When times are tough, the mind racing, low moods embrace you, running a business makes your head hurt, donning the fell shoes, even when not in the mood takes me outside, and outside of myself. And this happened today with a visit to Teggs Nose.

Photo taken from Teggs Nose car park looking toward Macclesfield Forest.

Photo taken from Teggs Nose car park looking toward Macclesfield Forest.

I’d been up early, probably on the computer from 7.30am, and by lunchtime needed a run as my head was spinning for business and personal reasons. My mood was also low, but after speaking to a couple of friends perked up a bit.

Attired I set off, with no particular plan apart from running to the Trig at Kerridge Hill at a gentle pace, followed by some sun bathing whilst looking toward the village of Rainow.

I ran to the summit, sunbathed and relaxed letting the proverbial brain box wander, and avoided picking up the iPhone. All of this with beautiful views over the Cheshire Plain and down toward Rainow.

The mood grabbed me and I decided to head for the Teggs Nose Country Park and off I went on the undulating ascent via Rainow. Hot in places, but a nice cool breeze in places. I eventually hit Teggs Nose with the plan to get a soft drink from the cafe. That was not happening - closed. Thanks Covid.

Chilled out on a bench and took a photo toward Macclesfield Forest, and also took a business phone call from a lovely old business contact. Then proceeded to make my way back. A lovely descent with amazing views of the Cheshire Plain and Manchester.

View toward Manchester from a hill not far from Teggs Nose on the return route.

View toward Manchester from a hill not far from Teggs Nose on the return route.

It was a bit of a rocky climb up to Kerridge Hill, so I took a rest and again admired the views at the Summit. Tried to call a friend, gave up due to reception, despite a mobile mast about 300 metres away down the hill from me - how does that work? Then back along the ridge (Saddle of Kerridge) to White Nancy, with views into Bollington. And from there back to Macclesfield.

Why do I like Fell Running?

Well today it got me out physically in lovely weather in an area of beauty where I was lucky to grow up in (Macclesfield). But more importantly was the break and release from troubling mental pressures, a sense of resignation, coupled with low mood, uncertainty, worry, and sadness.

What fell running seems to do is take you out of that moment as you concentrate on where you are putting your feet, whilst taking in scenery. On the flat or downhills, and for that matter steep climbs my mind wanders as I concentrate on feet, terrain, breathing; and my mind seems to organise thoughts, put thoughts to bed, create thoughts. And it is the same for emotions. It is very therapeutic when having a bad day. I’d like to say shite day up until the run, but that is rude.

I’d suggest Fell Running for those who fancy getting up in the hills and off the Tarmac, but must confess it is not for everyone. Running up hills in this heat can also be rude.

Graham Greene’s “Travels with my Aunt”

I very rarely listen to anything when Fell Running as I prefer to hear the natural sounds. But today, being low, fancied some company. I’ve been listening to this book on Audible and continued listening when running. Highly recommended is all I can say.

Why I love running the Saddle of Kerridge

Saddle of Kerridge? What is that you ask? Well coming originally from Macclesfield I can explain it is the distinctive ridge, with the highest point and Trig called Kerridge Hill, that effectively separates Bollington and Kerridge from Rainow; all places near to Macclesfield. Locals normal refer to it as Kerridge Ridge. At the opposite end to the Hill is the famous “White Nancy” monument.

Whilst in Macclesfield I donned the trail shoes and ran up to White Nancy and the ridge via various routes. This week has seen beautiful weather with spectacular views across the Cheshire Plain, Manchester City Centre, across to Macclesfield Forest and Rainow.

The Gritstone Trail also runs across the Ridge, and earlier this week whilst sat against a drystone wall sunbathing I came across two fell runners - Martyn and Jane Hodgson. Both far afield from Marsden where they live, out running the Gritstone Trail in sections. A pleasant and somewhat surreal surprise.

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But it just goes to show that try as you may, you can never escape “Polite Society”.

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Do you really want to be a "Personality"?

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Mulling over media and it’s creation of personalities, or people who try to create a personality.

I do understand the fact that in any business promotion of the business, and your role is important for raising awareness amongst the industry community you work in, including clients. However I personally try and draw a line at self promotion to the detriment of the business that employs you (conflict of interest) and to the detriment of you the person, and your integrity.

For example I have begun to notice that LinkedIn is getting hammered with self promotion and it does concern me that older, more experienced individuals are setting the example or the height of the bar for the younger ones coming into the business. Do we want an advertising industry staffed by vacuous persons, only interested in self? I also do wonder if people read such posts, or to be frank can be bothered, have time; or if reading a post wonder if they obtained something of benefit, depending on what you define as benefit.

Is this a mid life crisis I ask? Is self promotion taking away from growing and teaching the new talent coming into the business, something I bemoan. Or maybe I am a 49 year old dinosaur? But that is how I was brought up at the start of my career when I started off in August 1994 in London in national press. And it is also what I have learnt out of the business through thankfully having bosses who acted as mentors and taught me that if you grow people, they grow you, the business. If you give, you get back. I discovered helping people in their career (and not view them as a threat) gives pleasure and where respect occurs it ultimately aids you if in a senior role with loyal and hard working staff.

“Our awesome responsibility to ourselves, to our children, and to the future is to create ourselves in the image of goodness, because the future depends on the nobility of our imaginings.” Barbara Grizzuti Harrison

It is not about going toe to toe with a youngster, it is about growing people, and thus you grow yourself and lead by example, and word will be spread in a humble and honest way by others about you. Awareness not by your words, your interpretation of yourself. You become unique, not another wrapped in self promotion on LinkedIn and other forms of social media. Do you really want to appear full of narcissism, full of self importance, full of your own belief and opinion instead of helping others? Instead of letting your peers judge you, which can and is a brave thing to do?

I am not against shouting out about yourself to your fellows in this industry, especially when seeking to make people aware of services, skills you offer, or you have something interesting to say. After all we work in advertising.

In finishing, do I watch the many videos I see on LinkedIn? No.



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A post as we approach Christmas

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Whilst “things” are settling into a semblance of “normality”, it is still turbulent waters we find ourselves in. I thought I’d waffle as to my thoughts on this. It may help people find still and calm waters.

Wessenden Reservoir - Sunday 6th December 2020

Last year saw Brexit causing angst, this year a truculent US election, Covid 19, with Brexit rearing it’s ugly head; and we have Christmas coming up which can be a stressful time. I (and Claire my wife) decided to furlough myself in April until it became sensible and viable to work fully. Running a head hunting and consultancy business in the circumstances would have involved banging one’s head against a brick wall. Taking time off is what I did, and it may help people assess their own actions, or for that matter what they do next. But everyone’s journey is their own.

I used the time off to learn about myself, read and learn, and also spent time in the campervan with Claire on a trip around Scotland. The point being my business was still there, financially we were okay, ticking things over. I lived in the moment, not casting my eyes back or forward (this did not mean I cannot plan) and constantly asked myself, “what is the worse that can happen?” and “do I have problem now, not back then, or what may happen?” You cannot change what has happened, nor can you change what will come to pass. But you can enjoy the now. And that’s what I did.

One thing that I learnt was by how much I could reduce business and personal expenditure. Whilst also not panicking. Sometimes you just go with the flow. It always surprises me just how little you can live on.

  • Examine your personal and business expenses. Ask yourself, do I really need to pay for this? Is it a necessity or a luxury?

  • Don’t be afraid to cancel commitments like serviced offices across to subscriptions. You can always reinstate them.

  • Start to put money aside, even if minimal. It creates reassurance and gives you a buffer.

Accept that all of us are playing a “time” game. So, ask yourself the following:

  • Does my business work?

  • Does this job work? Am I happy, working well in this role?

  • Is my personal life a happy one considering the above?

If the answers to the questions posed sit in the positive then you have the ingredients for success, and can accept that you have to sit it out, and use your time constructively.

If the answers are negative, then maybe current events are nature’s way of bringing to a close one chapter of your life, or nudging you into making a change. Have a think about it? Believe it or not in times of flux, opportunities outside of your comfort zone can and do manifest themselves.

Waterfall and weir at Wessenden Moor - Sunday 6th December 2020

What is the worse that can happen?

Yes, yes I know, it is a cliched phrase. But it holds validity. When all about you is a maelstrom, just stop and ask yourself the question. Because when you do so, you reduce the anxiety and the catastrophising to neutral. And you also realise that there is always a solution, or acceptance of the situation. And this does not prevent you from holding a sense of calmness or equanimity about you, or living in the present. Take each hour, each day as they come.

Some useful reading

  • The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Now I don’t agree with all in the book, but for the most part this book teaches you how to live and enjoy the now, not being shackled by the past nor the future. It creates self awareness of one’s own focus in life.

  • The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg. A fascinating book that shows how we all work to routine and habit, and of how an understanding of this allows us to harness behaviours to achieve goals/plans, and personal fulfilment.

  • Why we Sleep by Matthew Walker. An absolutely fascinating book looking into sleep. Why would you want to read this? All I can say is it gives a valuable insight into the importance of sleep, how the mind works, and of how your looking after sleep and the mind reflects on your life.

Brun Clough Reservoir looking toward Diggle - Sunday 6th December 2020

So where do I find myself?

In all honesty, the time off suited me for a variety of reasons. And I never personally created the business to chase money, being more a question of enjoying life and helping others.

I now see myself ramping up the business in a sensible, soft, and considerate way. Being cognisant of the turmoil and hardship people are feeling and suffering.

I have sat it out and been patient and am still patient now. Things will improve and we will see changes. But out of adversity comes opportunity for change, and maybe you need a change?









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Mr Ted's perspective on rushing and the "Media".

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Ted the Terrier: Question, do Big People rush about more now than in the past? Are their lives more hectic? Is this something that I do?

Sniffing out good news and advice in a time of Media bombardment

Woof woof and good morning humans, Ted here. Nice and warm at “Hotel Macclesfield” with Pete’s Mum. Fed, walked, pampered whilst he’s up in Scotland with The Boss.

I hope he is relaxing in Hamilton. Big people; they always seem to rush about, read up and be concerned with what’s happening in the Big People’s world, and worry. But he does seem to take life easy, read books, and I enjoy walks as he is not always on his iPhone unless he’s got us lost again in the hills…

I think Big People seem so concerned with events in the world and sadly they are bombarded with and by the Media, and with technology access all this information which causes consternation, anger, worry, concern, and occasionally happiness. It seems to be more negative than good and I notice this in the way they seem so self absorbed. Also news does not have to be official; it can be local news, what he or she said, what they saw on a Facebook Group or in a Twitter thread and so it goes on.

So to my question? Do these humans rush about compared to old days?

People seem to have this idea that life has speeded up, that history has moved rapidly, and they live crowded and faster lives than those of their ancestors. I think this though is a result or product of media and artificial. Life is the same as those who came before but if humans engage with Media they lose control of our lives and yes they speed up, accelerate out of their own control. By Media I think it is commercial and non-commercial, especially Social Media. Media tells them about other people’s experiences, and they know more sooner, about more people, and so the seeds are sown for them moving from “themselves” to “ourselves” which can be an unnoticed and insidious shift, as life speeds up with their concern as to others and what they do and have.

They now know when royal babies are born, when distant wars are fought, when disasters happen. These “things” have always occurred, have always happened, and have swallowed and engrossed those who are immediately concerned.

Humans are also subject to the views, thoughts, behaviour of “outsiders” and so can be distracted by this and rush headlong into what they think they need or aspire for.

Hence the sensation of falling at speed into a way of life with no control, routine without purpose, a sense of stasis.

Me? Well I am dog, and I don’t have an iPhone, laptop, or read the news, or see what people are up to on Social Media. And you know what, that is a good place to be. I live for simplicity, do my own thing, don’t keep up with other dogs, and happily keep it simple. News? Well it is what happens to me in real time and thus I am grounded and happy. I say hello to my mates when I see them, but let them get on with their lives and don’t religiously follow them, to become subsumed in what they do, did, or could do. So for me life is calm, not rushed, in control, and contemplative. A nice place to be… Maybe the big people ought to try. Live their own lives, which does not mean being unconnected.

A thought for the day:

Obscurity can be a good thing. In not being known or engaging with other’s lives I won’t twist my values of life, and enter the rush we see. I move back to the past, connect with my ancestors and their own lives. I live my life as part of the world, not other’s lives.




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in the early hours... thinking about the recruitment market.

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Well it is quarter past four on Monday morning, 26th October 2020. I’m in Hamilton with Claire’s parents, wide awake, decided to come downstairs to work on the computer with a brew as I could not sleep.

Bracklinn Falls above Callander.

So, yesterday was a good day that involved a family walk with Claire and her parents around Bracklinn Falls, which are stunning, with part of the walk giving a great view of the mighty Stuc a Chronin (a Munro we’ve run up before.) It was a bit wet, well Scottish moist as I like to call it, but all were happy, especially when having food, wine, and brews in Minty the Campervan whilst looking at the hills.

Now I find myself wide awake, and I’ve been so since 3am, but I am relaxed and happy; chilled in fact. It is not the first, nor will it be the last time. I often wake up in the early hours and potter down to the kitchen for a brew, a read, a think. I learnt to do this a long while ago rather than rolling about in bed restless and worrying at not sleeping. I am able to get away with the lack of sleep, and have a suspicion this nocturnal part of me was grown out of living in a pub in Macclesfield for 20 years. I’ll probably drift back to bed and put some music on from Insight Timer by way of relaxing. Or will stay up. What will happen will happen.

What will happen will happen

This neatly brings me to my thoughts at this early hour listening to Radio 1’s Chill Mix on iPlayer. It’s okay, but more dance than ambient, which I prefer, so going to use Spotify to create me a radio play list around Radiohead, and here’s to hoping its not friggin’ depressing. (It wasn’t.)

Recruitment, job, role, employment, career, work and so this list goes on. It is about putting bread on the table, not worrying, and being able to have a good time, so I suppose pretty fundamental for most people. It’s also part of my business, head hunting, so worthy of some grey matter being allocated to it.

Found Us is ticking along nicely in the current environment, which to be frank is the equivalent of being Donald Trump’s hair stylist; a tall order. Many businesses are finding it tough as are individuals. I realise this from my own situation, talking to people, talking to business people. I must admit to having given a lot of advice over recent times to the best of my ability and experience.

My thoughts for people, those recruiting and those seeking to be hired, are below. It’s a bit of a brain dump, not in order and may help, and if so great. Feel free to drop me a message if you want a natter without having an invoice shoved under your nose. I presently have time to chat to people.

INTERLUDE: The Boss (the wife) came down and made me go to bed.

Back at it and it is 8.40am, about to have coffee and listening to Radio 6.

  • Jobs are out there as the economy has to roll on, and some companies are Covid robust. It is a question of realising this and not giving up hope, or becoming reliant on your current employer, furlough, or a redundancy payment - this is dangerous territory and can encourage boredom, loneliness, fatigue, sadness, and becoming stymied.

  • I notice that people struggle. They have in one sense become institutionalised in their career and are afraid to change to the point of financial pain, even where necessity dictates this. MONEY is still the same colour, the same thing, no matter how you earn it. So don’t be afraid to get a job of any kind. Why?

  • Well for starters you earn money, you have routine, you have company, you have self esteem, and worry dissipates. This is important to mental and physical well being.

  • I remember at one point in my life being a security guard in Boots in Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, and at times chasing people around the gardens. For me when I look back it was a life making experience, not just monetary. with some hilarious moments.

  • There is light at the end of the tunnel. There are jobs in this this top 10 economy even if you cannot get the role you want in advertising.

  • And you can always head back into advertising and have a story to tell, one of initiative and resourcefulness, and probably some funny and sad stories.

  • You also have to look at yourself in the mirror and if you are on a high horse as to money, status, title, role, then GET off that high horse. You are fellow human being like all and sundry and need to be humble and be thankful for what you have; there are people out there in much worse situations. If you chase the aforementioned in the current climate you will reach a dead end, as you have to adapt. The “Glory Days” are over - have a listen to song and read the lyrics.

  • Now is about helping people and in return you’ll be helped back. It may not happen immediately, but life has its own way of saying thanks. I am not religious, but I do believe in Karma.

  • Try not to worry or panic. What will happen will happen. The recruitment market is in flux as people are loathe to move from roles, and there has been a decrease in some roles. You can expend a lot of time ruminating over factors you have no control over.

  • So, take control of those things that you can. You can search for roles, people, different industries, look at you financial budgeting for example.

  • We have to bear in mind that Covid is not just going to disappear and improvement is likely not to be seen until well into 2021, we have a hard fought US election in two weeks, Christmas, and the elephant in the room called Brexit. Remember, these are factors that are macro and out of your control, so let them roll on, and focus on your macro - and this also includes your mental well being and time for yourself, your family.

  • Do get out of the house, do go for walks, exercise, or take a coffee in town and walk there. Change physically will engender change mentally.

  • Lastly, wave the white flag if struggling, ask for help. Don’t be British and hide it away with a façade. Being honest wins you friends, help, and respect.

    Some photos of a walk yesterday around Bracklinn Falls above Callander in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park - I really hope it encourages people to get out.

The Lord of the Flies... the have's and have not's...

The Lord of the Flies… the have’s and have not’s…

The last couple of days have certainly been an eye opener in terms of the disparity between those in power, money, and position, and those not in power, money, or position. With the meeting of opposites polarising around Manchester and free school meals.

Dickensian Britain… appalling

I cannot seriously believe what has been witnessed by the populace over the last two days which I think shows the culmination of a sorry state of affairs in this country.

We have a group of people behaving no different to the storyline of Lord of the Flies, hence the usage in this post of a black and white photo from the 1963 film.

Ralph in the 1963 film.

“Lord of the Flies is a 1954 novel by Nobel Prize-winning British author William Golding. The book focuses on a group of British boys stranded on an uninhabited island and their disastrous attempt to govern themselves. Themes include the tension between groupthink and individuality, between rational and emotional reactions, and between morality and immorality.” (Wikipedia.)

The Present…

What was one is now two, or even more fragmented.

One camp is aggressive, self seeking, and violent. Not physically violent but mentally, morally, with a dash of the inhumane. We see MPs reject support for the North, then punish accordingly, the denial of school meals to children and the dreadful reasoning that sits behind this.

The other camp is brow beaten, fighting its corner, brutalised. Can it survive or will it rebel?

I am not taking sides here as I have my own views as to all the inhabitants of the Commons, and what it takes an individual to be there; but the behaviour of the Conservative Government and its leader shows a complete lack of empathy, of understanding, of humanity, of downright decency.

Where is out Ralph? Where is the sole fighter against oppression. Is it Starmer? Is it Burnham. It does not matter because we can all stand up against the oppressor. That’s the point. The common man and woman are able to stand up to this ego driven arrogance that is governing decision making. Ego driven from a background of birth and upbringing that only seeks to serve its own myopic viewpoint of the world - privilege and arrogance breeds the same. It is a circular argument with no break. I suppose a self fulfilling prophecy.

We have to stand up against this tyranny and fight for a better world, a better Britain. A society where we work together for equality. I am not against personal wealth or graft or entrepreneurial gusto. It adds to society. I am against the favour shown by a select few to a select few, stymied by borderline corruption, and an arrogance of knowing better and preserving “their” status quo.

Rise up I say, not violently, but with your voice, your pen, your very soul. For we have to fight for what is just and right.

Gratitude and Humility; and Insight Timer.

The post today celebrates my gratitude and humility at being happy with the skin I am in, and for what I have in the current environment. I think we all should be, whilst reaching out to the needy. And who knows about Insight Timer?

Why grateful and humble? Because of where I am. Last year saw the impact of Brexit, now we see Covid, Brexit, the US election, and the ongoing aftermath of 7 months of Covid. This has left people, civilisations in tatters, with a sense of lethargy, lack of meaning, and isolation.

I myself am so lucky to have Claire and Ted, family, a business (despite it being in the doldrums), friends, and the great outdoors including my blessed fell running. It keeps me occupied and my active mind under control. And suffering from OCD I have an active mind.

I am therefore grateful. I am therefore Humble. I respect what I have when others are suffering mentally and physically, whilst my home business of advertising finds itself in a vortex of uncertainty. What will happen as the furlough money ceases at the end of this month? This is one example of not being in control of events and that can be disturbing where you have seen years of routine, certainty, and happiness. It can be a horrid, horrid state of affairs.

Some things I learned that might help

  • Each morning I try not to pick up the phone immediately whilst getting the first brew. This I have discovered drags me into the real and leaves no time for me. You can end up being distracted and you lose control of your present moment.

  • Me time is important in the morning. By this I mean set some time aside before you launch into work and life, which I appreciate is not easy if you have children for example.

  • I make my brew and then settle to read something that is inspiring or though provoking. I allow myself to focus on me, my mental state, and physical state. This takes me out of the world and allows me to think about living in the moment, what was yesterday, and what may come to pass. But I am in control.

  • I use INSIGHT TIMER which some will be familiar with. Suffice to say that it is a resource for all sorts of meditation, talks, yoga, calming music and the like. It is a free resource and you can also upgrade if you wish. I make sure I listen (ideally in the morning before picking the phone up) to a meditation. This sets me up for the day.

  • The reading and meditation, or just do a meditation, even when driving or travelling to work, puts you in the present, in the context, makes you not feel alone, and understand we don’t really have worries, and can live in the moment. The problem is we pick up the dratted phone and are immediately thrown into the world and its issues - we then lose ourselves, our essence. We lose control of our wellbeing on awakening.

  • The mobile phone. Try, try, try not to pick it up first thing on awakening. The dog wags the tail, the tail does not wag the dog. Don’t let it take you away from you.

  • The morning can allow you to think about what makes you happy, the positives, and all that is negative dissipates and falls into place. You have control of your day, of you.

  • Give Insight Timer a go, it is so worth it, and your mobile phone in this case is actually good for this!

    Giving

    Presently it is understandable to look after number one. The world does seem to be going to hell on a crazed out of control horse at a rapid pace. We become isolated and insular as we cope, especially as a lot of us are working from home.

    But now is the time to give, to help, to get to know people. Why? Because in giving and helping we ourselves become stronger and happier, and we grow. We also help our fellow human being and this gives a sense of belonging alleviating loneliness. In connecting we are not left in our own mind, our worries. We get a bounce in our stride and a sense of achievement. It could simply be you smile at a stranger during the commute, or say thank you.

Give the Dug a Bone.

Sometimes I look to Ted the Terrier for a lack of inspiration, as against inspiration. Simplicity of life can be seen in Ted. He lives in the moment, and yesterday saw him munch on a bone, and that was it. Not complicated. He was happy and ignoring me.

A Terrier tucking into a bone, or for that matter just watching Ted always reminds me to keep it in the present and that we humans can over complicate things. Happiness can come from simplicity, and it can also come from the moment. Just focusing on your particular bone moment.

Now I am not suggesting we head out, buy a bone, and go caveman. We have to live in the modern age. For example, you are reading a blog entry on a SquareSpace site via a browser, potentially on a hand held device - pretty complicated stuff.

What I find is that when tasks and life can overwhelm me, I remind myself I am living in the moment and thus ought to deal with what I have to deal with now. And that could also include doing nothing. It brings me back to myself and my inner spirit and the task or moment in hand. It is quite a grounding and relieving feeling. At times when the world crowds in on me I sometimes see what Ted is up to and study him. The sheer simplicity of his life reminds me we actually only have the moment to enjoy and live in because if we dwell in the past we miss now, likewise for the future. Sometimes watching animals or for that matter nature shows how the natural flow leads to happiness or contentment.

As I said earlier we humans do like to complicate things, and after all we are animals with a big brain, so maybe going for a walk, looking at birds, the squirrel in the garden, or plain looking out of the window is all that is needed to curtail being spun around in the whirlpool of humanity.

At the moment a lot of people are struggling due to a lot of factors outside of the control of the average person. Uncertainty can lead to looking back and looking forwards and not being in the now. That is not to recognise what has been and what may come, it is more to switch off to these two things. Humans are very time conscious and nature and animals are not, well apart from seasons. The point being that life is being lived as I type and nature and animals don’t think of time.

  • Try and be happy now. Take a leaf out of Ted’s book and focus on your “current bone”.

  • The past is to be learned from but don’t live it.

  • Likewise don’t live in the future. What will happen, will happen, especially in the current climate. And you present moment could be to write down some goals. There is nothing wrong with planning.

  • Try to view life like a Ted - unclouded, uncomplicated, in the moment as one will achieve the task in hand.

  • Don’t let yourself steal the happiness of the moment from yourself.

  • Life is hard, but living now opens up a huge perspective. You see and hear things.

  • Nature, animals, the universe. Get out in it, even if busy. It will bring you back to now and take you from time wasting maybes or has been’s. I mention time in this bullet point, but ask yourself what actually is time?

    Footnote:

    “Dug” is the Scottish term for “dog”. My wife Claire is from Hamilton and the term is used all the time. I like it.