All posts with the ‘ practical advice ’ Tag

As a society we’re sort of obsessed with losing things.

Losing your mind; your virginity; control; face; weight; your religion; your grip; your hair; touch; ground.

Generally speaking, we associate “losing” with things that are bad (OK, except maybe the virginity thing).

So it shouldn’t come as a shock that psychologically humans hate losing more than we like winning.  A lot more.

Radio Lab did … Read More

I’ve been reminded a number of times in the last week that people Don’t Like Lawyers.

This confounds me.

No, seriously, it does.  I understand that people usually need lawyers during rough portions of their life, but I’ve rarely heard as many jokes about oncologists as I hear about lawyers.

And yes, there are lawyers that are jerks.  But there are also kittens who are … Read More

‘Tis the season for questions.

I am a big fan of asking questions during a negotiation.  As a means of gathering information, asking questions is about 10 times easier than being imprinted with the skills of a covert spy, breaking into the NSA and stealing a planted file, all while running in high heels.  (er, “spoiler.”)

But not all questions are created … Read More

For those of you that went, welcome back from Emerald City!  I took crazy advantage of a whole weekend of sunshine and spent most of my time outside.  It was lovely.  I’ve got a post or two in the hopper, but in the mean time, I offer a few more Ninja Tips.  Enjoy.

1.  Good freelancers refer other good freelancers.

Knowing when to say “No” … Read More

Man, ask just about anyone how 2009’s been treating them and you’ll get a smattering of groans, grunts and a whole lotta “What the heck is up with the economy?”

And if the job market looks frightening now, the freelance market is gonna start making it look like a 76-trombone parade (sorry, this shouldn’t be news).

Unfortunately, when things get rough our natural tendency is … Read More