The Quotation That May Change Your Attitude Towards Success

The Quotation That May Change Your Attitude Towards Success

The Quotation That May Change Your Attitude Towards Success

Dr Seuss in “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” said:

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go …

I’m living proof of that.

In my late 40s, I started my own language training business. And in my 50s, I earned my master’s degree in teaching Modern Languages to Adults.

I’ve faced a number of obstacles along the way, but I’ve never given up on my dreams.

Dr Seuss’s words inspire me to never stop learning and growing, no matter how old I am.

We all have the potential to make a difference in the world.

What are your dreams? How are you working to achieve them?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Is Wikipedia More Valuable Than Ever?

Is Wikipedia More Valuable Than Ever?

Is Wikipedia More Valuable Than Ever?

Is Wikipedia becoming obsolete?

Or is it still valuable in the age of generative AI?

We now know that AI can generate realistic texts. So do we really need a human-curated encyclopedia?

In his article entitled “Wikipedia ist im Zeitalter der generativen KI wertvoller denn je” German journalist Jörg Schieb argues that Wikipedia is actually more valuable than ever.

He points out that generative AI models are still not perfect, as they sometimes produce inaccurate or misleading information.

In contrast, Wikipedia is a crowdsourced encyclopedia that is constantly being updated and improved by a community of experts.

This means that Wikipedia is more reliable and trustworthy than anything that generative AI can produce.

So why not support Wikipedia and help ensure that it remains a reliable and trustworthy resource for everyone?

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up: The Importance of Courage in Learning English

Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up: The Importance of Courage in Learning English

Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up: The Importance of Courage in Learning English

Are you afraid to speak English?

You’re not alone.

In fact, most people feel nervous about speaking a new language.

But what if I told you that you don’t need more information, you need more courage?

Here’s a story that might inspire you:


“I registered for Christine’s Speed Networking session.

Yes, I was terrified to speak up. I was so afraid of making mistakes.

But then I remembered something I had read:

Most of the time you don’t need more information, you need more courage.

So, I took a deep breath and started to speak.

My voice was shaky at first, but I kept going.

I told the group about my fear of speaking English, and how I was determined to overcome it.

The other participants were supportive. They encouraged me to keep speaking, and even helped me with vocabulary.

When I finished talking, I felt proud of myself. I had faced my fear, and I had spoken up. I knew that I could do anything I set my mind to.”


So, if you’re afraid to speak English, don’t be.

Just start speaking, and you will learn as you go along.

You might be surprised at how much you can learn and how much you can communicate.

Here are a few tips to help you overcome your fear of speaking English:

  • Start small. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start by speaking with people you know and trust—and then gradually start speaking with more people.
  • Find a supportive community. Surround yourself with people who are encouraging and who will help you to feel comfortable speaking English.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes when they are learning a new language. The important thing is to keep practising.
  • Be patient. Learning a new language takes time and effort.

You know I organise free Speed Networking sessions every two weeks.

Why not come and join me?

The Magic of Litotes: How To Say the Opposite of What You Mean With Style

The Magic of Litotes: How To Say the Opposite of What You Mean With Style

The Magic of Litotes: How To Say the Opposite of What You Mean With Style

Have you ever said “Actually, that’s not bad” when you really meant “That’s great“?

This is an example of litotes. A common figure of speech that appears in everyday conversation.

It uses negative wording or terms to express a positive statement

Here are some other examples:

  1. “She’s not unkind.” (meaning: She is kind.)
  2. “The food isn’t bad.” (meaning: The food is good.)
  3. “I’m not unhappy with the results.” (meaning: I am happy with the results.)
  4. “He’s not lacking in confidence.” (meaning: He is confident.)
  5. “She’s not a bad singer.” (meaning: She is a good singer.)
  6. “The film wasn’t terrible.” (meaning: The film was good.)
  7. “He’s not bad-looking.” (meaning: He’s attractive.)
  8. “It’s not the worst idea.” (meaning: It’s a good idea.)
  9. “I’m not unfamiliar with the concept.” (meaning: I’m familiar with the concept.)
  10. “I’m not against your idea.” (meaning: I’m in favour of it.)

Have you ever used litotes in your everyday conversation without realising it?

Why not share an example in the comments below?

Agatha Christie: The Master of Mystery

Agatha Christie: The Master of Mystery

Agatha Christie: The Master of Mystery

Ever wondered how Agatha Christie became the best-selling novelist of all time?

Watch the TED-Ed video and learn how Agatha crafted her mysteries with clever use of clues, misdirection and simple characters.

(You can also add subtitles or just read the transcript if you like.)

My sister was the big Agatha Christie fan in our family.

What about you?

Are you a fan of her novels? If so, do you have a favourite?