Richard Branson tells all.....

When we talk about innovation, running a business, brand-building and most notably entrepreneurship - there is one outstanding name that comes to mind - Richard Branson. The creator and owner of the 'Virgin' group with over 200 companies across the globe falls into the category of being one of the most exciting brand names on the planet.

I have often used Richard Branson's story of how he created his business empire incorporated in my training in the forms of articles, interviews and the various websites of the many different companies within the Virgin umbrella. Hopeully, this interview (TED conference 07) together with the slide below will illustrate the brains behind Virgin's success and help you get a feel of how Mr.Branson's mind ticks....

| View | Upload your own

Marketing made easy

Seth Godin, a household name witin the marketing world tells us his thoughts and ideas at the TED conference. An annual conference which brings global 'thinkers' and 'doers' to the podium spreading their thoughts, ideas and insight with the world.

This extract lasts for almost 19 minutes but will certainly give you food for thought if not an outside-the-box viewpoint towards your marketing approach.

Check out the 'recommended sites' link where you will be able to find the TED website. An inspiring site that provides details on past and future speakers in addition to all the conferences.

55 Simple Pleasures

Time for something completely different!

Whatever we do in life, our professional lives – family lives – social networks – we somehow all need and value those, somewhat simple pleasures. Yes, the small things that are for free or come close to very little.

A little trick I like to use to make my days much more pleasant is to find little, simple pleasures and sprinkle them throughout my day. Below is a list of 55 that in their own way contribute to brightening your day. Obviously, we all have our own 'delights' so let us know yours!!!!

1. Walking barefoot in grass.

2. Listening to good music in the car.

3. Taking a long, relaxing shower.

4. Coffee.

5. A good novel.

6. Popcorn and an old movie on DVD.

7. The smell of fresh-cut grass.

8. Watching the sunrise.

9. Walking on the beach.

10. A gentle morning run.

11. Yoga or stretching or meditation. .

12. Watching the sunset.

13. Hugging your child tightly.

14. Good wine. .

15. Dancing like you’re crazy.

16. Telling jokes till your sides ache.

17. A long conversation with a good friend.

18. Kissing in the rain.

19. Being lazy on a Sunday.

20. Waking to a clean house.

21. Fries and a chocolate milkshake.

22. Singing in the shower, loudly.

23. Dancing in the rain and stomping in puddles.

24. Watching your child play.

25. Fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies.

26. Helping someone in need.

27. Making someone smile.

28. A nature hike.

29. Laying back and watching the stars.

30. Making a sandcastle.

31. Floating in the water.

32. Taking an afternoon nap.

33. Serving your spouse a surprise breakfast in bed.

34. Watching your children on Christmas morning.

35. Laying back and looking up at clouds.

36. Watching the ocean.

37. Getting a massage.

38. Starbuck's Frappuccino

39. Acting crazy in public.

40. Seeing your savings account grow.

41. Seeing your debt shrink.

42. Taking a hot bath.

43. Blowing bubbles.

44. A gentle breeze.

45. The feeling after a good workout.

46. Checking something off your to-do list.

47. Writing on good paper with a good pen.

48. A clear desk.

49. Fresh popped popcorn.

50. Homemade strawberry shortcake.

51. Watching animals in nature.

52. An empty email inbox.

53. Staying up all night talking.

54. Having a picnic.

55. Swimming at night.