If you follow the rules of the art, not only will you save money, you will enjoy little games with the shopkeepers.

First, it is important to always remember that sellers are pretty smart folks, and have honed their art to perfection. They can be as charming as Cleopatra if needed, and are perhaps worthy enough of an entry in Wikipedia.

Games Sellers Play
Let me narrate a story about their psychological games.

A lady walks into a sari store. After enquiring about her budget (range, as they call it), the shopkeeper proceeds to show her a few pieces. She can't seem to decide on buying.

He spots the indecision, and quickly capitalizes on it.

Suddenly, in a PC Sorcar-like act, he pulls out a few saris at a higher price than the range quoted.

As she goes through them, the choice is pretty clear. Sensing the opportunity to seal the deal, the salesman says, "Madam, take the lesser priced range, it suits your budget.

The lady, feeling insulted, "Pack the blue coloured higher priced sari."

"OK Madam," says he, with a wry smile, knowing he's won the game.

We are all bargaining most of the time. Sometimes over which program to watch on TV. At other times over the salary your next company should pay. Many a time, we don't realise that we are bargaining.

But, when we do and learn to communicate, negotiate and close deals better, we become good at the game. Here are a few tips that will stand you in good stead.

Now see the price drop. Because you're not the interested buyer, he's the keen seller.

Quote 30 percent less. Always
Yes, you heard me right. Quote 30 percent less than what you're willing to pay. And see what happens. If he begins to drop from the quoted price, then for every Rs 100 he cuts, you hike your price by Rs 20. In the end, if you're patient and play the game well, you could well end up getting it for a song.

Tip: Always make 'em sell. You don't buy.

Learn to Negotiate
Let me walk you through a typical bargain I do at a second-hand bookstore.

Me (pointing to Stephen Covey's Seven Habits, without much interest): How much is that book?
Seller: Rs 150 sir. Please take it and see, sir.
Me (Looking at another book on the other side): It's ok.
Seller (Pursuing an opportunity to push): Tell me your price sir.
Me: (browsing through something seriously): It's too steep.
Seller: Ok, you tell me your price.
Me: Perhaps, Rs 70.
Seller: Rs 70 is too low, sir. The new edition costs Rs 390. Give me Rs 125.
Me: (Shocked as if a rickshaw guy asked me Rs 100 for a one KM ride): Nothing more than Rs 80.
Seller: Let's make it Rs 100.
Me: Thanks. The ELBS edition is Rs 130, did you know?
(I slowly move on towards the next shop.)
Seller (coming after me): Ok take it at Rs 90.
Me: Rs 80 only.
Seller: Ok, here's the book. Any other books you want, sir.

Smiles take you Miles
Always smile as you bargain. It lowers prices like nothing else does. Shopkeepers don't like to sell less to scowling faces.

If you know the stuff you're buying, he'll definitely offer you a good price. That's if you can differentiate between a micro and leather, 100 percent cotton and polycott. Otherwise you’ll get nothing. Zip, zilch, nada.

Tip: Show no great interest. And be in no great hurry to buy.

Never quote your Price
Never put a price to anything you want to buy. Let the seller say his price. Then say it's too high. Seller will come down further. Now put a price, say 30% lesser than what you're willing to pay. Keep negotiating from thereon to the price you're willing to pay, or lesser.

Tip: Closing times are the best times to buy.

In case you're in a strange territory or don't know the language, never put a price to anything you intend to buy. 'cause if you do, the only way to go is UP. Instead, try a few shops and you'll know the approximate price for the product you want to take home.

Tip for the traveler: Never go out and buy things in an unknown place. Check with some locals before buying.

All’s Well in Love and Bargaining
Even if you are not able to close a deal, don't worry. You actually haven't lost. Instead, you have found out a price range to negotiate in the next shop.

Now, are you headed to the bazaar?

Happy bargaining!

Written by KS Rajasekar

The classic Valentine dinner is a romantic candle-lit one in a quiet restaurant. Carry a bouquet of red roses and a gift for your sweetheart if you are a man and a gift if you are a woman. Order a meal with wine or champagne that you can enjoy as you have a long, lingering romantic conversation. Finish off by surprising your date with a beautiful heart-shaped cake or dessert with a special message on it.

If you want to set up a customized Valentine dinner at home, here are a few ideas. First create the mood in the room by having colorful gas-filled balloons in romantic colors like pink, white or red. If you want to get more elaborate paste a few hearts on the wall or string up some heart streamers across the room.

Spray a romantic scent into the air and light some mild incense. Play a selection of soft romantic songs in the backdrop to enhance the mood. Take some time to dress for Valentine dinner picking clothes that flatter and spraying on a sexy perfume especially with hints of vanilla which is an aphrodisiac.

Make dinner special, pick some attractive crockery and serve a gourmet menu that includes aphrodisiacs. Some popular aphrodisiac foods include caviar, lobster, bananas, figs, chocolate and so on. If possible, prepare something by yourself, don’t forget to serve some heart-shaped items like heart-shaped cutlets or, heart-shaped pies and so on. Pick up a bottle of the finest wine or champagne that will go with your meal and raise a toast to your relationship. Remember to finish the meal with a delicious heart-shaped dessert.

Your Valentine gift is the highlight of the evening. Gift your date a carefully chosen Valentine Day gift beautifully gift-wrapped.

These tips should help you enjoy creating the perfect Valentine dinner setting and enjoying it to the hilt.

But, they could also be good, healthy and positive. They could improve our efficiency. Help organize our lives better. Inculcate self-discipline.

A lot depends on whether the habit is good or bad. Something that's done regularly over a long period of time turns into a habit. And when that happens it's no longer in the realm of conscious acts. Habits exist independently in our subconscious. Which makes it all the more important for you to identify and work on the bad habits, or they could kill your time, reduce efficiently and stunt your personality.

Remember you weren't born with a bad habit you just acquired it over the years. So it's something you can undo.

Drawing up a plan

Decide which habit you want to do away with first. Procrastination, back-biting, killing time before the TV, overeating, smoking or drinking. Take on one habit at a time. They are as tough as nails.

Visualization

Writing your intention on a piece of paper works like magic. That's how most successful people have realized their dreams. When you put them on paper that's commitment. Then you must visualize doing away with that bad habit. See yourself smoking fewer cigarettes. Attending to things immediately. Spending lesser time before boring soaps. Eating healthily. This helps tremendously in your fight against bad habits.

Get family and friends to support you

Quitting a compulsive habit like smoking or drinking is tough. Not having the support of loved ones only worsens your resolve. Inform everyone of your resolve to throw a bad habit out of the window. Seek their support. They'll only be too glad to lend it. Join alcoholics anonymous or a non-smokers club. Being amidst people who've benefited from losing a negative habit will motivate you.

Substitute with alternate activities

You can kick a bad habit in the butt only if can find a better activity to replace it. Let's say you want to stop sitting in front of the television for long hours.

Can you do something more healthy and rewarding during that time. Maybe reading a book. Notes to Myself, Chicken Soup for the Soul or Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, if you please. Or get into a routine of exercising. You'll be a lot more healthier. Perhaps, an Evening Walker's Club or polishing some unused skill of yours. Painting or playing the guitar. And why not join a computer class.

Yes, if you can think that a challenge at work or home can be done, you are most likely to achieve the same. At the same time, if one has doubts it can be achieved, then success is unlikely. Because when the mind sets about the task in a positive framework, then it’s easy to cross any hurdle that we may face.

All successful folks began with positive thoughts and dreams. Bill Gates, Pete Sampras, Muhammad Ali, Steve Jobs, etc. each one of them had a goal, believed they could get there, put in efforts and never lost hope at any point in time.

Starting with a clear mind, goals and thoughts is like beginning a formula one race with a fabulous vehicle filled with gas. Hence you start so positively, the confidence builds up to get you nearer the dream.

“Champions aren’t made in the gym. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill,” said the boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

Positive thinking is like a tonic, like fuel that can drive you to success. Make it a habit to start with an advantage and you will get ahead in life. Success is all yours.

Communicate with Colleagues

Whether you like it or not, you have to communicate to co-workers. It doesn’t mean you have to be nice at all times to people you don’t like. It only means one must recognize co-workers with a hello or smile. Or else you may face criticism or gossip during the breaks. Starting with a positive attitude to be good to people around will make your life at work peaceful. This will make life at office happy and you’ll feel great coming over every morning.

Don’t say Negative Things

Refrain from talking ill of colleagues. This will save you a lot of trouble. I mean even if you don’t like the turn of someone’s nose, keep it to yourself. Or share it with someone you trust. Never say something negative in a group. It reflects badly on your personality. It’s tough to be like this but thing of the tremendous benefits. There’s always positive energy around you at work. Bosses can easily get a feel of whether co-workers are looking forward to your leadership. This will become critical when you are in line for a bigger responsibility.

Be professional with regard to bosses. Showing overt eagerness to be in bosses’ good books is seen by many as unprofessional and also assesses as a sign of incompetence. So it’s best to carry out the challenges assigned and maintain cordial relationship with bosses. Remember to show initiative and take reasonable risks at work. Keep bosses posted about critical developments, even when the work has not been completed.

Resolve Misunderstandings Quickly

Have you run into trouble with someone? Connect and resolve the misunderstanding as soon as possible. Speak to the person concerned and be frank. Everyone makes mistakes, but the world loves folks who admit the same. Make up rightaway.

Show genuine interest in people regardless of tags. Managers always love folks who are people-oriented. We are full of emotions and keeping relationships well oiled means we are on the road to peace and success.

First love comes unbidden and hits you like a ton of bricks. This happy surprise is the most enjoyable thing about it. Before you realize it, the object of your affection become the most important thing in your life. You adore, praise and wax eloquent over your beloved, you also find moments when you turn an impromptu poet or break into a jig!

The funny thing about first love is that in many cases it's a strong crush and the target could be anyone ranging from a favorite teacher, painter, preacher or the good-looking neighbor next door.

The first time your beloved expresses love is something very special. It can be as subtle as a soft 'I Love You' whispered in your years or as flamboyant as hiring a hoarding to declare love! Love expressed as a cute little love poem, a mushy card or with a heart-warming teddy-bear are some of the popular means of expressing this emotion. Love mugs, love flowers, heart-shaped chocolates, heart stationery and love song CDS are just a few of the ideal gifts to gift someone you love when you want them to know you love him or her.

First love takes the young lovers to another world oblivious to what happens around them. A world where just the two of them exist, moonlit walks, romantic dinners, long drives, dance and such couple activities feature high on the agenda. Friends might find that they begin to take a back-seat but most good-naturedly understand.

First love is a mix of both a physical and emotional rush of feelings with both running high. With both partners being young, the stirrings of desire awaken and both feel the throbbing physical need. The period is marked by lots of kissing, petting and making out.

First love packs in fine memories of the first experience with the opposite sex. If you are in the throes of it, enjoy every moment, for it's to be cherished for a lifetime.

For more on "Famous Love and Romantic Sayings" check

http://www.cupidquotes.com/ and http://quotes4love.blogspot.com/

4> How to be Happy in Life?
God: It's very easy. Expect nothing. Give all you have. Sport a Smile. Be like children.
Think Positive. Speak the truth, Always. Then you don't have to remember Anything.

6> When I can't decide on something, what should I do?
God: Listen to your heart. Not to your Reason.
God, what about depression after a failure.
Remember, when you can no longer walk, you'll be a able to fly.

7> My mind is noisy. How can I listen?
Only the mind that listens can understand anything. Listening is not passive as most of you think. It means to let a message sink in, without being judgemental. Don't criticise. Don't comment. Let not your conditioning intefere with Understanding what you are hearing. Put off your filters. Let your intelligence take a break. Don't validate anything. Listen with a still, calm Mind. You'll hear the deeper meanings. You'll understand the Truth.

8> Is it easy to Love people?

Truth is the foundation on which True Love is built. Lies and falseness can crush a romantic relationship. Sooner or later, the person is going to find out the truth and then the love bonds are gone - disappearing into the thin air.

When you're wrong or make a mistake, accept it. And the person will forgive you. Not just that. The bonds of Love grow stronger after that.

9> Do we need conditions in Love?

The whole world seems to be doing this wrong. As children grow up, we ask them to do certain things. If they do, we shower love on them. If they don't, we scold them. We deny them our love. The teacher does it. The boss is no different. And the partner is the same too. Rejection. Scorn. Cold shoulders. That's what people get when they don't follow the carrot and stick policy.

Do what I say. Do what I like. And you'll be my best friend. You'll get my Love. But, conditional love works in the short term. Guess we can easily find the answer from our own experiences.

Unconditional love to children, friends, partners and parents. That's the winning strategy. Try it and you won't regret.

Indianyogi, Motivational and Inspirational Quotes

Nothing in this world has ever been achieved without careful preparation. The purpose of the meeting should be outlined, and the agenda set. The purpose, date and time should be put down on a notice, to be sent to all concerned. The venue, capacity of the hall and facilities available must be checked. Tea or snacks required should be ordered well in advance. Sufficient time should be given and, if possible, all invitees must be spoken to and participation confirmed, lest you be facing empty chairs on the day of the meeting. Notes, minutes of the previous meeting, report cards or other material should be at hand during the meeting.

Written by William Byrd.
Performed by John Sankey.
Copyright by Nicholas Gordon

Love comes through the tastes and smells
Of fresh and well-cooked food,
For in the gift of nourishment
Is much else that is good.

But though love comes through senses five,
Love comes from the heart,
For there resides the greater love
Of which ours is a part.

Music by Lord Franklin
Sequenced by Barry Taylor.
Copyright by Nicholas Gordon

This Valentine's I Wish that You Were with Me.
It's lonelier than most days I'm alone,
Even though we'll manage on the phone
To touch with words the face we cannot see.
You away are far more dear to me
Than anyone who might remain at home.
My love is in the places that you roam,
Being with you where I cannot be.
We do not choose the objects of our passion,
But passively await the holy fire
That immolates our past and lights our fate,
Twisting through the alleys of desire.
So I am yours, and will contented wait,
Allowing love my life and will to fashion.

Written by Dimitri Shostakovich.
Sequenced by J. Marques.
Copyright by Nicholas Gordon.

Some love lasts a lifetime. True love lasts forever.
-- Author Unknown

All mankind loves a lover.
-- Henry Thoreau

To love and win is the best thing. To love and lose, the next best.
-- William M. Thackeray

To love another person is to see the face of God.
-- Les Miserables

There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.
-- George Sand

I never knew how to worship until I knew how to love.
-- Henry Ward Beecher

Love is, above all else, the gift of oneself.
-- Jean Anouilh

Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.
-- Albert Einstein, Famous American Scientist

The physical aspects Chronic illness in some children leaves them tired with little concentration on what's being taught, sometimes poor eyesight causes a child to lag behind in taking down notes from the board. Loss of hearing or lack of concentration are also common problems with school-going children.

Slow Memory Development

Surprisingly some children write 'p' for 'q' even at later stages of schooling. Words that are reversed also create problems. Ten for net. This isn't a major problem and should be handled with care by teachers and parents. Do not make the child feel inadequate because of this. Train him better. It's not that he is dull or unintelligent. You need to speak to the language teacher and get your child special attention. At home spend time with him teaching him better spelling. Unattended, these children may turn out be poor sellers, often misspelling even five letter words.

One the gravest errors parents make is to threaten erring children. "I'll inform your teacher. She'll give you nicely." This creates hatred for the teacher and ensures just the opposite of what you're trying to accomplish. 'Strict' teachers too add to this. Sometimes an accident or illness that originated at school creates fear , and the child will refuse to go to school. At other times a 'bully' at school may be eating his lunch every day and threatening to box him if the teacher is informed. Kids who hate physical training periods may fuss on certain days, even refusing to eat breakfast. Or feigning illness. Take this matter of factly and get him going. Don't give into all these or soon you'll find him testing your nerves.

Points to ponder

1> Children walk to school, but run to home.
2> Nearly all children exhibit starting problem.
3> Its not always something to do with studies.
4> Loss of hearing, poor eyesight and chronic illness could be the cause.
5> Don't guess, talk to the child to identify the root cause.
6> Its painful for children to hold the pencil at first.
7> Make it a point to meet the class teacher regularly.

Write down clearly how you’d want your son to be

At home
At work
At social life

Points to ponder

Character and values are vital to happiness in life
Attitude is key to success
Relationships are critical

1> Its unwise to confront the child with a behavior problem.
2> First, confirm that he has made a mistake.
3> You must first follow the rules.
4> Threatening or spanking should be the last resort.
5> Rewarding good behavior ensures repetition of the same.
6> Children love to please their parents
7> Love, care and understanding alone can help your child.
8> Degrading your son in front of other children will only worsen your problem.
9> Complaining to others will affect his self-esteem.

Let’s get it straight right away. All children lie or steal at some point of time. Only the frequency may vary. Parents needn’t worry if the child lies, but must take care to explain that one must always speak the truth. And by doing that the child’s parents can find a solution to the actual problem.

Every child must be taught that to lie isn’t accepted behavior. And if one wants to be loved and cared for, one must always speak the truth. Rigid rules and over expectant parents are often the cause for persistent lying in children. Its very difficult indeed for a child to confirm to every rule. So whenever he / she flouts a rule, he resorts to lying fearing a reprimand by the disciplinarian father. So it undoes what a parent actually wants of the child.

Its wise for parents not to confront the child, “Don’t lie. Tell me why did you lie….. will you lie again”. That’s a typical reaction of an overanxious parent. Do not instill guilt in the child over small matters. His character hasn’t been damaged because he lied once or twice. And the same time don’t let the child feel it isn’t wrong. Encourage him to express his actual problem. And in earnest see the solution. Just make him feel it’d be a lot better if he didn’t repeat that.

Some parents may laugh over an incident where the child lies. That could be a tragedy. Do not send wrong signals. Above all, you don’t lie to each other or to the child over anything. Speak the truth. Remember, the truth frees us all.

Just another common behavior problem associated with slightly grown up children, say about seven years onwards. As children begin to grow up, letting go of the hem of the mother’s sari, they learn to be individuals with thoughts of their own. And things of their own. Picking up signals from those around, children begin to identify things as their own and somebody else’s. They develop a deep attachment for certain toys and definitely pride too.

It all starts with toys. Toys draw the admiration of friends and give endless joy. And hence, the occasional ‘stealing’ of a neighbor’s toy shouldn’t shock the parents. If ever they discover this they could politely hand it over. Cool your nerves. Don’t reprimand or spank the child. This is a normal thing that happens universally. Let not the child feel he’s done a grave crime or broken one of your Ten Commandments. Be tactful in explaining that the toy belongs to the other child. And that he can play with it when they are together, but shouldn’t bring it home. Moreover, tell the child he too has a lot of toys and he could share it with friends. Although sharing isn’t a habit acquired easily. Slowly but persistently (and certainly not forcefully) the joy of sharing can be put across. But never ask a child to share something he’s isn’t letting go easily. A child must first of all enjoy possession of his toys, before he / she is willing to share. And as parents you must understand this.

In older children, stealing (lets say of toys) may be creep in as a result of deprivation of the same at home. Or because that toy card, game, pen or ball is the cynosure of all kids in the neighborhood. The resulting envy may force the child to ‘steal’ the toy, at other times, older children do a ‘heroic act’ stealing chocolates or smaller items from shops. This is more of a ‘gang act’ as several children go to the shop to buy and one of them ‘does the act’.

Don’t bring the roof down if your son is caught red-handed. You may have to call upon all your patience to handle this Embarrassing problem. Gently tell the child that he could have always asked you if he needed that. And you cold have bought it. Put it across that its not accepted behavior to do this. Tell the child you’ll be very happy if he didn’t repeat the mistake.

A> Pick up a quarrel as soon as he comes home.
B> Wait for your child to go out to play or tuitions before discussing things.
C> Discuss problems even when the children are around.

2> When your spouse does something good, do you...

A> Seek a private moment to thank
B> Openly compliment at the dining table
C> Thank him in your heart.

A> Hide your negative traits
B> Can't control yourself even when children are around.
C> Portray only positive traits in front of children.

Answers - 1> B 2> B 3> C

The more you give, the more you get. True. Parents should shower affection. Not necessarily by buying things the kid loves. Or being with them all the time. But by being with them when they need you. Sharing your thoughts. Taking them out for a walk. Helping him clean his cycle. Perhaps, even cooking together.

Love binds the family together. It makes the child feel wanted. Consequently, the child does everything to get your approval. Love means overlooking faults, not criticizing, not being judgmental. It also means being caring, kind, generous and sympathetic.

But, you must express the feeling. The child must know you love him. Play, fondle, cuddle, kiss and let the child be all over you. Physical expression of love, though unapproved in many cultures, is essential.

Tell him the joy of having received a surprise card on your anniversary. Express the joy of having her in the family. Reward him for good behavior. And don't forget his birthdays.

Of course, all of us desire the above. Often we are willing to sacrifice, forgo even necessities for fulfilling the desires of children. Take care to provide him quality education, health and entertainment. But let him know the hard work behind it. Let him not grow up without knowing your hardship. The truth will make him more responsible.and he'll try to fulfill his responsibilities as a child at home and school.

Be there when he needs you.

Its vital. Maybe to lend a shoulder for him to cry on. To cheer him on the sports day. Pick him up from school or drop him at the gym. Listen even when you're busy. Talk to him about his likes and find time to walk together.

Do not expect too much.

In the event of the child not matching up your dreams who'll face agonizing disappointment. Naturally, you. Mould him wherever possible, but let him grow naturally. Find out his dreams, test his ability and then decide on what suits both. Its OK if he's not the best, provided he's given it the best shot. Forget it, if she isn't half as intelligent as you. But, has the child the good qualities that help him get along well with others, be confident at work and face the world bravely. That's vital.

Remember James Watt invented the steam engine, not his father.