Get a sneak peek into Hope On The Outside by Bart Smith by reading a few of the hand-picked book excerpts below. If you like what you read here, then you'll definitely love the book or perhaps the audio version. Enjoy these excerpts!
EXCERPT #1
Recidivism is the act of a person repeating an undesirable behavior, such as a criminal act. It is also used to refer to the high percentage of inmates who are rearrested for another or similar offense once they are paroled or released from prison. The term is frequently used in conjunction with criminal behavior and substance abuse. Recidivism is a synonym for “relapse,” which is more commonly used in medicine and in the disease model of addiction.
EXCERPT #2
STEP #1 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
No sense in beating yourself up (forever) over what you did (in the past). What is (now) in the past is JUST THAT … in the past. Every minute, every hour, every day of your life can now be committed to becoming a better you, for ...
EXCERPT #3
STEP #2 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Never do (what you did) ever again. Vow, instead, to: help others, be kinder, nicer, more patient, more understanding and forgiving of others if you wish to receive forgiveness for what you’ve done in your past. When you do, ...
EXCERPT #4
STEP #3 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Write a letter to the individual, group, party, company or whoever you did wrong to say the following (I’ll tell you what to write in just a minute) … This is important ...
EXCERPT #5
STEP #5 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Make a vow as to what you are NOT going to do socially, such as, hang out with the old crowd. Wish them well, ...
EXCERPT #6
STEP #6 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
All kinds! What classes are available where you’re at? Take advantage of them and take as many as you ...
EXCERPT #7
STEP #7 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
This goes for drugs, smoking, drinking, overeating, etc. Check in with the people who are in charge of ...
EXCERPT #8
STEP #13 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
INCOME: What pays what? Well, jobs don’t really pay much unless you have the knowledge, experience or ...
EXCERPT #9
STEP #48 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
I’m going to try to break this down for you as simply as I can. Ready? The news companies and media today that we often turn to for our news, whether it be on TV, online, the radio or newspapers, can only make money if you and I ...
EXCERPT #10
STEP #49 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Write to young people about your story, what you’ve learned to help them avoid what you ...
EXCERPT #11
STEP #56 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Yes, when you get out, go networking with others on the outside at events in your area. Look up events that ...
EXCERPT #12
STEP #70 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
I’d like to say it SHOULDN’T exist, but some people seem to make it into something it shouldn’t be. That is, can we ...
EXCERPT #13
STEP #71 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
BIG WASTE OF TIME! Plus, you’ll get in trouble too, ...
EXCERPT #14
STEP #72 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Don’t trade 15 minutes of fame for 15 months behind bars EVER or 15 days in the HOLE. Not worth it. Stay clean, ...
EXCERPT #15
STEP #73 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
If you’re not already, get TECH SAVVY! Study computers, software, Internet terms, eCommerce/selling online, ...
EXCERPT #16
STEP #74 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Learn all you can about finance, making money, the stock market, penny stocks, futures/options markets, Forex, ...
EXCERPT #17
STEP #75 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Yes, MAKE A LIST of all the things you’re learning in this book that stand out that you want ...
EXCERPT #18
STEP #76 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Keep your mind occupied and plenty to do on your ...
EXCERPT #19
STEP #77 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
When you’re finally out, act as if you only have one ...
EXCERPT #20
STEP #85 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
When you get out and try your hand at something ...
EXCERPT #21
STEP #86 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Did people tell you you couldn’t succeed at anything?
INTRODUCTION & WELCOME
Message From The Author
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Recidivism is the act of a person repeating an undesirable behavior, such as a criminal act. It is also used to refer to the high percentage of inmates who are rearrested for another or similar offense once they are paroled or released from prison. The term is frequently used in conjunction with criminal behavior and substance abuse. Recidivism is a synonym for “relapse,” which is more commonly used in medicine and in the disease model of addiction.
With millions of men and women being released from jail every year, the chances of them returning (i.e., getting rearrested) are HUGE. Whether they get arrested in year 1, 2, 3 or 4, after being released, inevitably, 40-80% of those released will return to whence they came. Not good, folks.
Why is this? What could cause them to return in such high numbers? What was their crime or offense? What is being done to curb this horribly sad and shocking statistic? Is the system that arrests and houses them doing enough or anything at all? What about society, friends, families, and the community? What are they doing? What CAN they do if anything? Maybe some of those parties mentioned don’t exactly know the best way to be part of the solution. Maybe, it’s an environmental thing or behavioral, addiction, economic, educational or psychological. Either way, recidivism is a huge problem in this country and it has to be dealt with and start with a more “internal/self-help” approach.
There have been many ideas on how to solve the problem of recidivism. Some of them include education programs, literacy programs, greater use of halfway houses, electronic monitoring of home confinement, and workshop programs consisting of various forms of military like discipline, physical training, exercise, working outdoors, working, classes, along with drug and alcohol treatment applications for first-time and some repeat offenders. Again, I mention the “internal/self-help” approach because all change(s) start from within. If you want to change, you will, no matter how hard it may be. If you want to change, but don’t know how, someone can show you or provide the tools and materials to learn how to change.
FOR ME, it was after watching a number of TV programs that focused on inmates, rehabilitation, jail, being locked up, getting out, recidivism (going back in), etc., did I sit there in both disappointment and disgust as to how little progress was being made in the area of helping men and women NOT return to jail after they were released.
Some of these trainers I saw or programs showcased, couldn’t offer inmates anything more than the usual advice, “You know you’re going to have to get a job, right?” One inmate in class responded, “But there are no jobs where I live.” The trainer’s reply? “Well, you’re just going to have to look for one.” Today, this type of super lame advice isn’t the case, but in many it still is.
So, I thought to myself, on an individual level, maybe a book like Hope On The Outside just might really get the ball rolling in the right direction if all the right messages were introduced into the minds of those serving their time with tons of time on their hands to consume it. I thought how convenient would it be if all someone had to do was put their head back on the pillow, open up my book and start reading. Who knows? Maybe something they come across that I have to say will motivate them to start thinking about what they did, why they did it, why they won’t do it again, what they will do instead, where they will go when they get out, who will they (not) hang out with, etc. With so much time on one’s hands and this book, wow, read it 10 times over. Commit it to memory and ACT ON WHAT YOU READ!
I wrote this book with the intention to instill the necessary mental foundational groundwork for anyone on the inside to start thinking, planning, training and rehearsing for what to do that is GOOD and RIGHT so they can ensure their chances to succeed on the outside are hopeful. That’s it. That’s really the reason behind why I wrote this book. To help improve the lives of those inside on their way out!
Now, have I ever spent time in jail; well, I did, but only for a few hours. It’s actually quite funny. While I was supposed to stay overnight in jail, with pillow and blanket in hand and my room awaiting me, the officers realized I really didn’t belong there. You see, I was way too nice, cooperative, cordual, and I just suppose they let me go if I promised to pay the outstanding traffic ticket that issued the warrant for my arrest in the first place. I was cuffed, taken in, booked and then ... they realized, I was a pretty nice guy! “Go home. Call someone to come pick you up.”
On a second occassion, I was at my 25-year high school reunion sharing this very book idea with an old classmate of mine, who had probably done some time in jail even if it wasn’t long. He asked me, “Bart, what do you know about being in jail?” He knew I was a clean kid growing up and stayed far away from trouble that would ever land me in a cell. I replied, simply, “NOTHING! I just know how to stay OUT of it!” He laughed and agreed. “Bart, you always were a good influence on people. It’s great seeing you. Cheers!”
You see, to me, it’s not just a person’s internal drive and desire to want to succeed, but their environment, personal and money-making/management skills, computer skills, education, training and know-how that help ensure he/she has the best chance of success on the outside. Well, can this book deliver such insight and motivation? I think so. I live by the very advice and suggestions you’ll read inside. It’s what I use to keep me clean and out of trouble. Maybe it can help you too! That’s the goal here, right?
Now, who is this book for? It’s not just for those on the inside, and parolees. This book is also for their friends, families, co-workers, parole officers, law enforcement and anyone else involved in that person’s life. The goal of this book is to help anyone (on their way out) with a heavy and immediate focus on personal development, self-help, self-education, self-reflection/assessment, making wiser decisions, and becoming more comfortable with accountability and taking action in a positive direction from this day forward.
Hope On The Outside is a must-read/must-have for all those who are seeking to get back out into society and to live a more productive life free of drugs, addiction, violence, gang affiliation, and other criminal activities.
Inside this book are valuable ideas, tips and suggestions on how someone on the inside (doing time or soon to be released) can apply what time they have more effectively and how to avoid relapsing and the inevitable fate of those who wind up returning. That’s not going to be you, right? I hope not. Better not be! Breaking the cycle of recidivism can be done, but only with 110% focus on rehabilitation, applying oneself personally, and with the help of others who care about you, which there are plenty. All you have to do is ask for help and for the most part, it’s there for you!
Having said that, let’s dive right into Hope On The Outside. There’s no better time to start looking forward to, preparing for and working on you and your new life on the outside than right now on THE inside of your mind and inside your heart. C’mon ...
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STEP #1 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Forgive Yourself
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
No sense in beating yourself up (forever) over what you did (in the past). What is (now) in the past is JUST THAT … in the past. Every minute, every hour, every day of your life can now be committed to becoming a better you, for you, your family, and for society as a whole. I’m proud of you for being able to … forgive yourself. It’s not easy. You don’t even have to believe it (what you’re saying) for the first week or month, even.
So, practice it every day. When you close your eyes every night to go to sleep, say to yourself, “I forgive myself for what I did and promise never to do (that) again. I also promise to be a better person going forward.” Then, when you wake up, say to yourself, “Today is the start of a new day. I’m in total control of what I do today. First, I forgive myself for what I did and promise never to do it again. Now, I’ll focus on doing 3-5 things that are positive and will help set the day off just right!”
Rinse and repeat those statements in the morning and at night and after 30 days of doing so, see how much better you’ll begin to feel about yourself. If so? Take someone aside where you’re at and help them do the same thing. Before you know it, you just might have a nice little group going where you’re all helping each other to forgive one another for what you did. Now, that’s powerful. Well? Make it happen!
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STEP #2 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Make This Vow Now
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Never do (what you did) ever again. Vow, instead, to: help others, be kinder, nicer, more patient, more understanding and forgiving of others if you wish to receive forgiveness for what you’ve done in your past. When you do, watch people start helping you when and where you least expect it. Hey, we all need help. No man (or woman) is an island, and no one deserves to be left out in the cold, left alone to fend for themselves for the rest of their life if they’re kind to others, which you can be, right? You bet. Be the first to say, “Hi,” or smile at someone, to be a friend, to lend a hand, and your heart. Be the first to push kindness outward and watch what happens. You know what happens when you push the opposite (of kindness) out there, right? It’s not good. So, … vow you’ll be kind, this day forward every single day for the rest of your life.
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STEP #3 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Write This Particular Letter
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Write a letter to the individual, group, party, company or whoever you did wrong to say the following (I’ll tell you what to write in just a minute) … This is important because it accomplishes two things: 1) Writing something down starts the powerful act of commitment and accountability with every pen stroke (do not type this; although, you may type it just to get your thoughts out fast if you like. Because I type 90 wpm (words per minute), I would never write a letter by hand at first. I’d type first, then hand write what I typed out.) Anyway, the second reason is to put the victim associated with your crime, somewhat at ease knowing you are sorry for committing the crime you did and that you are determined to be good, do better and help others learn from your mistake(s) so the world can become a safer place for all.
When this letter is received by your victim, wow, their heads are going to turn upside down and say, “I can’t believe it. I’m so touched (your name) reached out to me to say these words of commitment and dedication to turning their lives around and even working hard to make the world a safer place for us all. Well, may God bless him/her and I hope they find happiness and success in whatever they pursue in their life. I’m proud of them.
They served their time, and I can only wish them the best.” Now, just imagine millions of these letters going out from you, and others in your shoes, to those involved in the crime you committed against them? Now what if you don’t have the address of the party you wronged? What if you’re not supposed to contact them? That’s okay. The simple act of writing the letter is step one.
Step two is the receiving of the letter in someone’s hands related to your case that can say, “I’m impressed and I’m proud this person (you) is committed to turning his/her life around. I think I’ll reach out and say thank you for writing this letter and let him/her know I’ll communicate their words and intentions with the party they’re not supposed to contact. In fact, I’d like to maybe _____ (i.e., send him/her a personal recommendation of good will, etc. to help them get acclimated back into society faster, etc.). See how this simple task, that literally takes just a few hours, can really help kick start a ripple effect back in your direction of goodwill and potential good luck?
Even if you can’t reach anyone to send your letter to, here’s what you do ... (1) hand write this letter and share it with someone you trust and who loves you dearly and knows about the crime you committed and did time for. Write the letter then either mail it to them or even read it out loud in person or even over the phone? You could personalize it with their name saying, ...
“Dear (Name), I know you’re aware of the crime I committed and that I have paid my debt to society by finishing my stint at (name of correctional facility). Well, you might like to know, by writing this letter and stating what you’re about to read (or hear), I am putting in writing with my own hand that I am fully committed 100% to turning my life around for the good and making true amends with what I did. Further here are three things I’m doing to help get me back on my feet and on the right path to living life as a good and model citizen. First, I’m going to ______. Second, I’m going to _____. Third, I’m going to ________. I have other things I’ll be doing to help improve my life and in so many areas, that I’m so excited to see what becomes of me in the days, months and years ahead. Many of these things I’m supposed to do) came to me through a book I read called Hope On The Outside. Of all the people and programs available to me to help me become that better person, this book told me specifically in writing how I can become just that … a better person. Writing this letter was one out of 100+ things I’m supposed to be doing. As it relates to the crime I committed, I am truly sorry for what I did and promise to work hard every day and night to not repeat what I did, but instead to constantly improve myself for the better and in a way that I can turn what I did into something good and be a positive role model for others. As I sign my name to this letter, you have my word I will do my very best to fulfill everything you just read. Pray for me, as I will pray for all of us. Thank you, for reading my letter to you today. Tomorrow begins the first day of a life of doing good by everyone I know and come in contact with. Sincerely, Your Name.”
Again, even if you can’t send this letter to the actual party involved, we want to put your written word out into the universe for it to be heard and read. In doing so, watch magic, forgiveness, fired up motivation and inspiration come to you to be able to do everything you mentioned in that letter and so much more.
For example, I want you to send a copy of that letter to me. You can mail it, post it on my website or even eMail it to me. I’d like to read it. If I have time, I might even reach out to you and congratulate you for writing such a letter. How’d you like that? Hey, I’ll do my best, ok? Still, do this immediately upon getting out or if you feel motivated to write it now, while on the inside, then write, by golly, write!
In advance, I’m proud of you for taking pen to paper and writing this letter, then mailing it or reading it out loud to someone close by or sending it to me for me to read. Heck do all I just mentioned. Send copies to anyone and everyone you want. I’m proud of you. Now, keep reading this book (or listening to the audio program).
There’s still so much I want you to do. As they say, “idle hands do the devil’s work.” So? Let’s get you busy doing all the right things so you can STAY AWAY and OUT OF TROUBLE every day and for the rest of your life!
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STEP #5 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Vow You’ll Stay Away From Trouble
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Make a vow as to what you are NOT going to do socially, such as, hang out with the old crowd. Wish them well, but MOVE ON and MOVE (physically) if you have to (or can), but do anything to remove yourself from where you got in trouble in the first place. I know I don’t live in places where there’s trouble, and neither should you. Remember these two words when you think about the trouble you were in that got you locked up for a while … “STAY AWAY” from trouble, and instead GRAVITATE to where it’s GOOD and SAFE. When someone (from the old/bad crowd) wants to invite you back into that DANGER ZONE, just say to them, “Gee, that sounds like fun, and I wish I could, but I can’t. I promised myself and others never to ______ again. But, hey, you go have fun for me, ok? I’ve got an underwater knitting project I’ve got to finish by tomorrow (instill some humor or a joke in your communication). All the best …” Then, hang up the phone or close the door and STAY AWAY from trouble. FOREVER! I do, as best I can.
GET a computer of your own, preferably a PC (I’m biased, I know; trust me on this one). Don’t borrow one. You can go online and pay as little as $250 for a starter laptop to get you going, until you can upgrade in price to something more around $450+. Mac laptops are overpriced and don’t do all the things you can with a PC.
You can check out MyTrainingCenter.com (my website) to learn how to use your new computer too. I have 100’s of video tutorials on all kinds of software to get you up to speed from the basics to professional Adobe (and other) software programs you can learn quickly, then turn those new skills into paying gigs to help get you back on your feet fast, financially.
Here’s an example: (SCENARIO A) if you went to apply for a job, you wouldn’t be paid for two (2) weeks. That sucks dug eggs. On the other hand, (SCENARIO B) if someone hired you to design a book cover for them or lay out their book for them, like my clients have hired me to do over the past 20 years, I’d make between $200 and $2,000 in a single night/week/month, depending on how much time it took me to complete the project. I always ask for 50% (or a minimum of $250-$500) down to start the project (so I’m paid before I even start working) and then I get paid each week as I make progress. In another example, I made $1,000 in one single (long) night designing a website sales page for a client’s event they were holding. Imagine that, $1,000 in a single night! I have many stories like that.
LEARN THE COMPUTER SKILLS I KNOW and you can start making money the second you feel confident you can perform a task for someone. How long will that take? How hungry are you to learn from me? Head on over to MyTrainingCenter.com and start learning today so you can start earning tomorrow!
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STEP #6 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Start Taking Classes!
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
All kinds! What classes are available where you’re at? Take advantage of them and take as many as you can. Jump back into society with all hands, feet and eyes on taking new courses in finance, technology, marketing, communication, writing, etc.
If you have help from family or other financial means, you could go online and take a huge variety of classes at Udemy.com, SkillShare.com, Teachable.com, Podia.com and Lynda.com and each month, enroll in 3-5 new classes.
Find subjects that interest you and start learning quickly through these websites. Watch for specials too. Sometimes, you’ll find a course that regularly sells for $199 on sale for $11.99. I’ve seen that happen A LOT. I’ve taken TONS of courses for cheap this way.
THEN? I take that new knowledge and I sell it (in the form of consulting/services) to my clients for what? MONEY MONEY MONEY! I can spend 90 days learning a whole bunch of tech, marketing, and sales related courses that my clients DO NOT have time to learn. So, I learn what needs to be learned, create a menu of services to choose from on my website and go networking. When I’m out networking at events all over town, I’m bound to pick up 3-5 new clients who are willing to pay me between $500 and $5,000 for xyz-services. I don’t even have to leave the house if I want to put my services up for hire at websites like Upwork.com, Freelancer.com, Fiverr.com, Toptal.com, Guru.com, PeoplePerHour.com, iFreelance.com, SimplyHired.com and similar websites.
Be careful though, as you’re competing with other freelancers from around the world who’s cost of living might be lower than yours; hence, they can charge less and outbid you on a job/project. The best thing to do is find just one person to pay you for something, and then ask them to refer their friends to hire you.
After you do 2-5 jobs, you’ll begin to have more work than you can handle. When that happens, sadly, you can GIVE YOURSELF A RAISE! Well, it’s not sad for you, but for your clients. You are in more demand so you can then raise your rates. I did and wow! I now make $1,000 a MINUTE because I’m in such demand! ;-) I do offer discounts and coupons, but rarely do I work for anyone now! No one can afford me! ;-)
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STEP #7 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Get Clean If You Have To
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
This goes for drugs, smoking, drinking, overeating, etc. Check in with the people who are in charge of maintaining the facility where you’re at if you’re still on the “inside.” See what programs they offer and race to join them. Spend your time inside getting clean so you don’t have to waste that time when you get on the “outside!”
If you’ve been released and you’re on the outside, and still addicted to any form of substance, food, etc., get help immediately. Attack these addictions head on and get over them. Thirty (30) days is your first goal; then 60; then 90 days. You get past 90 days cleaning yourself up, you’re going to feel (and function) like a new person. MILLIONS of people got over their addictions, you can too. Now, hop to it!
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STEP #13 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Income, Getting Paid & More
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
INCOME: What pays what? Well, jobs don’t really pay much unless you have the knowledge, experience or education to command such high paying wages or you’ve got great negotiation skills. If you work for yourself as a freelancer, you’re better able to set your own rates based on how much in demand you are and how much you value your time and how much you DON’T want to perform a certain job. For example, I do not want to build websites for people anymore because I’d rather spend my time doing something else. Just because you have the skill set, doesn’t mean you have to price yourself according to what the market is paying. No. Instead, I’ll triple my rates because I don’t want to do the work.
That said, if a client still wants to work with only ME, and they’re willing to pay my rate, then who wins? I do, mostly, and sure the client too … they get to work with me. Do you see how if you’re in demand, and your skills are high, you can command a high wage?
Also, income comes from sales and selling something too. The higher the product price you’re selling, often the higher the profit margin. Selling homes pays more than selling oranges on the street corner. Also, investing (and using money to make money) in the stock markets (i.e., futures, penny stocks, options, etc.) is a great way to lose money, but also to make money if you know what you’re doing. All you gotta do is learn. I’d say this when starting out:
(#1) Get any job you can, just to get some cash flow coming in while you train/study at night or some other time during the day. Do that for 30-90 days. Work the job and learn new skills DAILY!
(#2) Break away from the job and start doing freelance work to make more money and get more freedom working for yourself. Work longer hours to make more, get in demand, raise your rates, and transition your studies from learning skills to learning about investing and/or real estate. Spend 90+ days learning either of those and then transition out of servicing other people to sales, selling and investing, whichever best floats your boat.
That, to me, is a clear and logical progression. That way, you’re not stuck in the dead end job forever making minimum wage, but you see hope escaping that rat race to higher ground where you can make more money, scale your earnings and grow your income until one day you’re living the life you’ve always dreamt of.
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STEP #48 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
The News, Negative News & The Media
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
I’m going to try to break this down for you as simply as I can. Ready? The news companies and media today that we often turn to for our news, whether it be on TV, online, the radio or newspapers, can only make money if you and I watch and listen to what they have to say. Why and how? Well, because they make their money from advertising. What does this have to do with the news and negative news? Well, the more negative, hostile, divisive and EXCITING and FRUSTRATED they can make you with the news they broadcast, well, perhaps the more you’ll watch their PROGRAMMING to learn what’s up in the world today. Well, I’ve got NEWS FOR YOU! You don’t need to hear what they have to say 80% of the time. Sure, it’s good to keep up with current events. It’s a whole other thing to believe everything you hear, which I DON’T.
So, I say to you, don’t believe everything you hear today in the news, because? They also don’t always give you all the information you need to hear to make the best conclusion as to what they’re saying to you. What I mean here is: (1) they will and do leave certain facts out ALL THE TIME to push their own agenda with a story, (2) the news companies purposefully mislead you into thinking the way they want you to think, and (3) they rarely come back to apologize or comment on any mistakes they might have made which would then clear up any false reporting or some other form of news B.S. they typically spew on a daily basis. So? For 30+ years, I’ve chosen NOT to watch the news at all. My TV is literally off 99% of the day.
Consequently, I’m very careful to choose which outlets I do get my news from. I choose more conservative, independent, non-TV related news outlets to get my news updates from. What’s more, I read news articles across the spectrum to see what different news companies are saying about the same topic. What I find is some news outlets stretch the truth or word their stories very negatively, while others simply state the facts and let you make up your own mind. I also do my own research.
Again, I don’t believe everything I hear. Never have, never will. So, I suggest you focus more on you and your world and make it a better place than to believe or hear/see all the negative (news) B.S. happening out there in the world today. Here’s a fact to live by, which is, you were born into this world of war/chaos/desperation/survival and (we) will die in that same world 50+ some odd years later. Just because there’s craziness and chaos happening in the world, that doesn’t mean your world has to reflect that.
Instead, choose to build your own life, a peaceful one, a joyful one. Choose not to get caught up in all the negative news today, because I’m sure there’s a lot more GOOD GOING ON today than there is bad. The news companies just can’t make any money telling us about the good. They profit way more when they tell us about the bad. So? I just turn the channel to ME and don’t watch them. I watch ME and work on creating my own news with what I do in my everyday life! The same goes for you. Does that make sense? If and to what degree it does, GREAT!
Live your own life and let the world do what it does best ... go on without you. Onward and upward, living your own life, right? You bet!
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STEP #49 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Still Got Time To Serve?
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Write to young people about your story, what you’ve learned to help them avoid what you went through. You have value on the inside, before you step outside. You didn’t know that? This could be your very first book.
I teach how to write books and really fast! Here’s a quick lesson: Make a list of 20+ things you’ve learned and would do differently to avoid getting into the trouble you’re in.
Write a Message From The Author to introduce your story/lessons, and then a Summary/Wrap-Up/Words Of Encouragement in the back after your lessons and then guess what? YOU’RE DONE!
You just wrote your first book! Congratulations. Send it to me! Let me see what you wrote!
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STEP #56 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Network With Others On “The Outside”
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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Yes, when you get out, go networking with others on the outside at any number of events in your area. Look up events that interest you on MeetUp.com. Being locked up must be like living in a closet for a number of months/years. You lose certain social skills in the everyday world.
So, I’d suggest for kicks, you attend a minimum of 5-10 networking events in your local area. Even if you go and just ask what people do, “Tell me about yourself.” Then, just listen. Listening will start informing you on what others do. When it’s your turn, you can respond with something short, like “I’m in transition. Looking for something more meaningful to me. Listening to your story inspires me. Tell me more.”
Then, guess what, the other person starts talking again. When your time is up and you have to move to the next person, you can easily. Listen to more stories.
You’ll go home that night with 5-15 stories in your head to think about. You might pick up a few new friends to meet up for coffee later. Who knows. Go to 10+ events like this and you’ll get back into the swing of things and society much faster than just showing up to a job or sitting at home or going out with friends to the bar, which you’re going to minimize when you get out anyway, right? Right.
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STEP #70 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Race, Ethnicity, Color, Etc.
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
I’d like to say it SHOULDN’T exist, but some people seem to make it into something it shouldn’t be. That is, can we (try) to get it out of your head that it’s the enemy? The only enemy (for you) is “not having marketable/sellable skills” in demand to help YOU attract a good paying job/career/business idea, making money and helping others. I don’t see color when I talk to people. I only see if they do or do not have skills, ideas, knowledge, education, do they speak well (or not) and more! In my line of work, if you can do the job, color, age, or gender means nothing. In the end, people/companies want to get ahead and make a profit. If you can help them, you’ll get paid to help them. To me, knowledge, skills, intellect, and the accumulation of all that and more is where it’s at. Focus on that, and not the troubles that come with focusing too much time and energy on what doesn’t bring you happiness, prosperity and fun in LIFE!
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STEP #71 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Don’t Pick Fights With Anyone
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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BIG WASTE OF TIME! Plus, you’ll get in trouble too, whether you started it or not. You’ve got way too much to do to get yourself prepared, up and out ... once it’s time you’re to be let out!
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STEP #72 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
15 Minutes Of Fame Ain’t Worth It!
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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Don’t trade 15 minutes of fame for 15 months behind bars EVER or 15 days in the HOLE. Not worth it. Stay clean, stay away from trouble and look for new found (and earned) popularity, notoriety, fame and fortune doing good for others. Better to improve yourself and let “fame” find you by people saying, “Wow, you’ve come a long way ... you’re so good at ____ ... I’m so happy for you!”
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STEP #73 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Get Tech Savvy
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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If you’re not already, get TECH SAVVY! Study computers, software, Internet terms, eCommerce/selling online, online/offline marketing and advertising terms, etc. The more you know about computers, the more that knowledge will allow you to navigate any field that uses computers. Do searches online to find “TECH” related definitions and just read those definitions and LEARN!
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STEP #74 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Get Financial Savvy
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Learn all you can about finance, making money, the stock market, penny stocks, futures/options markets, Forex, mutual funds, real estate, asset protection, different business entity structures (i.e., corporation, partnership, LLC (limited liability company), trusts, non-profits, etc.), different types of insurance (i.e., life, health, property, auto insurance, etc.), ... ALL THIS will help you focus your attention on making money (with money) for the long haul. There could be a financial planning job waiting for you when you get outside if you start studying for it now! Do searches online to find “FINANCIAL” related definitions and just read those definitions and LEARN!
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STEP #75 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Make A List
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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Yes, MAKE A LIST of all the things you’re learning in this book that stand out that you want to act on now and every day! Perhaps create a plan to act on some topics within 30 days from today. Then, make a list of what you’ll jump on in the second wave you want to act on!
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STEP #76 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Stay Busy / Don’t Slow Down
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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Keep your mind occupied and plenty to do on your calendar, whether you’re on the inside or out. “Idle hands do the devil’s work,” they say. Keep focused on the positive.
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STEP #77 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
You’ve Only Got One Shot To Make This Work!
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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When you’re finally out, act as if you only have one chance to make it and you don’t want to screw it up! That should help keep you on your toes and best behavior. Yes, keep a "ONE SHOT MINDSET" with all your endeavors on the outside.
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STEP #85 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
It’s Okay To Fail On Your Pathway To Success
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
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When you get out and try your hand at something new, yes, you might fail. That’s okay. Did you know failure is part of the journey towards success? Look at any and all failures as learning Go out and fail – don’t be afraid to.
I once helped a friend publish his first book about success. He was afraid to fail as a first-time writer. I told him, don’t be afraid to fail. Just write and let the editor fix what you don’t do right. EMBRACE FAILURE! LET FAILURE BE YOUR TEACHER/GUIDE/INSTRUCTOR. Do not be afraid to fail.
There, now that you know how to overcome failure, go for your dreams and live life fully once you get out!
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STEP #86 FOR HOPE ON THE OUTSIDE
Don’t Listen To Other People Who...
Hope On The Outside Book Excerpt
Copyright © 2024 by Bart Smith
Reprinted by Permission
Did people tell you you couldn’t succeed at anything? What have they ever succeeded at? Probably nothing. Misery loves company. Forget them. Their words ARE MOTIVATION for you to keep pushing on. Besides, you can do anything you put your mind to, study up, practice, rehearse and put time and experience to work for you instead of … their talk. Talk is cheap in my book.
Turn lemons into lemonade, which includes your situation in life. Let nothing stop you. NOTHING! Go for your dreams, turn your fantasies into a reality! Let no one stop you from living the kind of life you want. Just tell them, you’ll be right with them, ... and LEAVE! Leave them hanging onto their own falsehoods when it comes to what your true potential is, which is, A LOT!
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