What is Network Marketing and How Does It Work? Monday, Jun 30 2008 

• Many network marketing plans are based on providing a home shopping service.

• You can save money on a wide range of goods and services you use on a daily basis by purchasing these goods at cost price.

• You also save time by having these goods delivered to your door. You can do your shopping using the internet.

• If you are happy with the service and the products, then the companies that manufacture the goods will pay you commission if you recommend the homeshopping service to others. It works very much along similar lines to loyalty points that you earn in supermarkets. The only difference is that here you are rewarded with a monthly cheque rather than money off coupons.

• These products and services are used by every person in the world day after day, giving repeat business and a steady income.

• The size of the business and income is unlimited because you don’t have to do all the work yourself and the business operates in over 80 countries world wide.

• The network marketing idea is simple and has been described as the ideal business.

• Quite simply having used the products and services and providing you are happpy with these high quality and cost effective products, it is easy for you to recommend the products to others. When you think about it you do this all the time when you recommend a good restaurant, clothes shop, plumber etc,

• You make money when people sign up to the home shopping service and a network of people using the service develops below you. You explain to these people that by joining this home shopping service, they can make money as well as save money.

• At the end of each month the network marketing company calculates the total number of points earned by all the shoppers in your network. It’s a little bit like the loyalty points you earn when you shop at the supermarket.

• However the big difference is that you get loyalty points for all the the shoppers in your network and those points earn you a commission cheque each month.

• I would be delighted to provide you with further FREE information about this fascinating concept.

Aled Evans is an official Network Marketing Independent Business Owner, dedicated to helping people to develop their network marketing business.
http://www.letsescape.co.uk

Golf Exercises Don’t Have To Be Grueling Saturday, Jun 28 2008 

Golf exercises are viewed by the majority of golfers as “work”. That is why it is so difficult to convince golfers that golf exercises can be fun and don’t have to wipe you out physically.

I’ve worked with many golfers in person and with my online golf performance sites, who were shocked to realize how much fun and motivating golf exercises can be.

Don’t picture going into a sweaty, smelly gym and lifting god-awful weights. No…picture doing golf exercises that mimic your golf swing and have a direct impact on your power, accuracy and consistency.

This new outlook will be a huge motivating factor in the success of your golf exercise program. When you envision the end result, it makes it all worthwhile.

It’s also a double benefit!

Doing golf exercises that closely mimic your golf swing, will not only improve the strength and flexibility of your golf swing quickly, but reinforce your swing technique off the course. This double benefit will transform your game.

Get ready for powerful drives, accurate approach shots, and scores that will plummet.

Golf exercises can be done with very affordable and portable equipment saving you time, money and convenience. The thought of going to a gym; or having to join a gym to get started will keep you from starting indefinitely.

Your golf exercises can be done in your home, office or even a hotel room with exercise tubing, a pair of handweights, and maybe a stability ball if you want to get a little more creative.

They are not golf exercises if they are on a machine (especially seated ones). How can a seated machine help your golf swing, when your golf swing is done on your feet, in a very dynamic position require timing, sequence of motion, and stability to name a few?

So next time your golfing buddy says he’s doing golf exercises, ask him (her) what they’re doing specifically. If he/she says they go to the gym and use the machines, you won’t have to say anymore.

Fueled with the above, affordable equipment you are ready to embark on your golf exercises.

Mike Pedersen - EzineArticles Expert Author

About The Author: Mike Pedersen is one of the top golf performance experts in the country. He is Golf Magazine’s golf performance expert; author, and founder of several cutting-edge online golf performance sites. Take a look at his just released golf performance dvds at his golf swing tips site - Perform Better Golf.

Notable Thoughts on Positive Living Saturday, Jun 28 2008 

I went online — and what do I see? A news report scrolled across my screen: “Murder by Mother’s Milk,” compliments of the Associated Press. I try to keep up with the news as it informs me of my environment, the world around me and society in general. But when I look at a television or monitor screen and read horrific reports such as this one, I have to wonder what this world is coming to.

Purportedly, a 31-year old woman (who, by the way has 5 children) was an apparent methamphetamine addict and was breastfeeding her 3-month old son. According to the report, the fatal drug passed through the mother’s breastmilk and caused the death of her tiny infant. Although the child can no longer be brought back to life, the mother was indicted and charged with second-degree murder. She could receive up to life imprisonment.

So, are you angry yet? What type of world are we living in when supposed, responsible parents are so high on drugs that they “accidentally” poison their children with methamphetamine?

Then I hear reports of a bride-to-be being buried today because of radical fundamentalists who get kicks out of bombing innocent people.

Of course, the epitome of news reports is to make our modern, “civilized” public aware of current events, people, places and things. But does it really? If awareness is being raised to the potpourri of countless, violent reports then what has transpired? Yes — more violence.

Like a flashing billboard of red lights, all the warning signs come barreling into our faces. However, how often are these ominous “news stories” going to be taken to heart? We sit back, view news reports, eat our dinners, do our chores, sit back down and watch a movie. No more talk about the 3-month old who was murdered. No more talk about the innocent young bride being bombed. Suddenly, the rose-colored glasses get put across our eyes and we’ve become desensitized to all the negative in our world.

We, as a people, coexist with modern neandrathal-like maniacs who care of nothing but self-satisfaction and egotistically charged, radical perspectives of life. A matter of fact, these nomenclatural fiends of society seem to marvel at their newfound notoriety by playing to society’s camera view.

“I was abused as a child…” “I didn’t have a Nintendo…” “My religion is better than your religion…” “I couldn’t help myself because nobody cared enough about me…” I’ve heard just about enough excuses for irresponsible, childish and violent behavior. It’s about time society take note of these news reports and start proacting.

People, in general, have been brainwashed by alleged leaders of independent cultures, schools, and even parents to think that whatever they do will ultimately be an excuse to do as they please. I’m here to tell you that life is not a bowl of peaches and cream. Life is not easy. Nothing gets handed to people on a silver platter without hard work, dedication and willpower.

If individuals want positive things to happen in their lives, they have to reinforce positive behavior and attitude. I am sick and tired of hearing people say the reason they act the way they do is because they had a hard life. Get over it. Jesus had a hard life and look where He is today.

I look at people like Susan Smith. This woman takes the cake; and is the poster child for what is wrong with society. Here is a young woman who one day decides that she would intentionally trade her children’s lives in on a man who didn’t even want her. She idly stood by and watched her helpless tots drown in a murky lake, then phoned police to say a “black man” had stolen her vehicle and abducted her boys. Sickening. “…but she was sexually abused as child…” screamed her defense attorneys. Amazing what antics defense attorneys can squeeze out in a courtroom. Yet it gets better. Now — if you’d like, you can personally contact Ms. Smith and have a long-distance relationship over the Internet with her.

So, here are a few pointers to positivie living that I’ve come up with — in my own opinion, of course:

  • If you’ve had a terrible life and can’t deal with it — get counseling for God’s sakes. You are your own person and need to take control of your actions by being in charge.
  • If you think your religion is better than the next persons, don’t bomb innocent communities. This is not a positive way to prove your point.
  • If you don’t use drugs, don’t start using them. If you do use drugs, it’s time for you to check into a clinic and get rehabilitated. Many are free and provide financial assistance to those who cannot afford to go to one.
  • If you decide that you no longer wish to raise your children, please contact social services and get some help. You’ve brought life into this world and that life is your responsibility. Period.
  • If everything in life has gone wrong and you’re sitting there wondering if life is worth living, think of this: somewhere in the world — children are literally starving to death; somewhere in this world, a person is dying from some god-awful disease; somewhere in this world, people don’t have luxuries like clean, running water and a roof over their heads; somewhere in this world, there is another person going through the same thing you are experiencing.

Positivity is the key to all good things. Always focus your intentions on the overall good of humanity. Promote peace and live peacefully. Accentuate the positive, as positive energy attracts positive energy. Leave this world a better place than in which you came. In closing, I leave you with a quote from an incredible human being — Mohandas Gandhi wrote, “Nonviolence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.”

Copyright 2003 - Notable Thoughts on Positive Living
by C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot

EzineArticles Expert Author C. Bailey-Lloyd

About the Author:
C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot is the Public Relations Director & Staff Writer for Holistic Junction — Your source of information for Holistic Practitioners; Naturopathy, Naturopathic Schools, Massage Therapy Schools and Reflexology Schools; Alternative Healthcare; Insightful Literature and so much more!

Caregivers Friday, Jun 27 2008 

If you look up caregiver in the dictionary, it is defined as someone who gives direct care. The example given was someone who cares for the chronically ill, or for children. Since I teach special education children (K-22yrs old) about moving their bodies, then I would qualify as a caregiver. I feel a great deal of pride in being called a caregiver, even though our society does not seem to value the importanceof what we are doing with monetary remuneration. Teachers and nurses who are primary caregivers, are usually at the bottom rung of the ladder when it comes to salaries, so I know firsthand most of us did not go into it for the money. (Doctors fare much better with their standard of living.) However, in most foreign countries these same teachers and nurses are well paid and revered by the entire society. An interesting commentary about what we value in this Country———–we would much rather pay the people who take care of our cars more than the people who take care of our elderly or children. Something to think about, now that there is a shortage in both fields.

So, if it is not for the money why do most people go into these fields? I truly believe it is a calling for most people, and also a very special gift that they are honoring. I believe that we all are born with a purpose, and it is up to all of us to find out what that purpose is, in order to fulfill our destiny. It is what fills your soul with joy each day and makes you excited to go to work. Caregivers truly fulfill the calling of
being of service to others, regardless of pay—for most it is their soul’s destiny. I’ve seen many people go into these professions, after they realized that the corporate or business world did not fulfill their soul’s joy or destiny. Once they honor what their true purpose is, there is a different look in their faces and they are excited with”loving life.” This may sound a little corny, but I have seen it happen over and over
again———–it is about a soul’s renewal and remembrance of their promise. It is about truly loving what you do!!!!!

Does that mean that there are no “down days” as a caregiver—-(whether you are paid for your position or a brother or sister taking care of a sibling or a parent taking care of a child or another adult or your parent)—- because we all human. I like to think that we are “All Spiritual Beings having a Human Experience.” There is a tremendous amount of stress related to being a caregiver and sometimes it takes its toll on you physically, mentally, and emotionally. So, as funny as it may seem caregivers are usually the worst people at taking care of themselves.

It is a valuable lesson that they must learn in order to truly last in this lifestyle. I call it following the “Caregiver’s Golden Rule———”Do unto YOU as you would Do unto others!!!!” So, for me, I have learned to take a mental health day every once in awhile, when my batteries need to be recharged. I do something just for ME—-like sleeping in—-going to the beach—–staying at home with the phone off—
getting a massage—-anything that I want to do!!!!

Another group of caregivers that I really want to acknowledge are those parents who are dealing with children with a disability or those children who are dealing with parents who require constant care. I have a great deal of respect and
appreciation for them. I watched my mom care for my dad who had Altzheimer’s, and respected her choice of “in sickness and in health”, but I also had to let her know that she needed a break sometimes for herself. It can be a thankless job being with people that don’t even understand what you are trying to do for them, and all you can do is just love them.

I think love and compassion are the main ingredient for ALL caregivers. So, in ending this article on caregivers I would like to say if you know one—-let them know how much you appreciate what they do—that is worth more than money!!! If you are one, and receive a great deal of joy, love, and peace in what you do, than know that you are truly fulfilling your soul’s work and that What You Do is Important to the World!!!

Fran Buckless has been a coach and educator for over 30 years. She has just started a newsletter, “All About Caring”, on her website http://www.myallaboutcaring.com. Her goal is to remind people that there is someone out there that cares about them and their needs. Fran comes from a spiritual background, and believes in helping others through a variety of ways. If you need a “pick me up” or something that will make you “think”, read one of her articles. She is just like you, and will try to relate some of her experiences knowing that there are others who are going through the same thing. She is also committed to helping you find other people who come from integrity in a variety of fields—–people that you don’t have to search for but can trust. If you like honesty, you will like what she has to write about. She is truly inspirational, and has a bigger heart than anyone I know.

Taking Voice Lessons Friday, Jun 27 2008 

You can often see people cherishing a secret desire to become a singer one day. It is said that to be a singer you need to possess a sweet voice with a sense for music. But that is not all. You have seen in television programs, how the amateur people join the show and sing their heart out to become a professionally recognized singer. Practice makes a man perfect. Definitely you should have some kind of musical sense. But that alone will not do to make your dream come true. You should follow vocal lessons with full dedication. Together they all can help you to achieve your dream.

You may wish to be a rock star or a pop star or you can dedicate yourself for classical music. You cannot do it alone. You need a teacher - a teacher who knows how to guide you to your dream. A famous singer may not always be that much good teacher. A teacher is a person who has the knowledge to guide you through the proper channel. In Minnesota there are several musical schools to offer you vocal lessons. If you search online you will find some professional singers who give lessons.

If you want your singing habit to be your profession, some schools offer you placement as well. You can go to the schools or can request the schools to send a teacher at your place for vocal lessons. They will arrange accordingly. As a teacher is the only one responsible to mould your singing future, always find the best teacher who can understand you and your desire. Start your run to reach your dream. There are professionals to be the force under your wings. So, let your vocal chords express your emotions and the world know about the singing prowess.

Winclear :Free Internet History Remover Friday, Jun 27 2008 

Just recently I tried this product and I was amazed with the result of it’s service rendered to my PC. The software doesn’t just here to erase evidence but also it helps me restore the performance of my PC. Evidence Eraser can completely remove all traces of my Internet activity and protect sensitive information while improving my computer’s performance. The program is the only software that meets the standards of the US Department of Defense so needless to say that the program really works. If you ever see unexpected pop-ups on desktop (when no browser is launched) or suspicious Windows messages rest assured your PC is heavily infected by spyware.

However, this last feature often comes as an obstacle for the parents. They think that keylogging their children’ online activity equals to spying and that such harsh supervision in not required for their beloved ones. Well, even if your child is very smart and kind, he or she is still a child so there is still a threat that they can make a wrong choice. And the consequences may be horrible. There are online predators that try to gather information about children in various chat rooms to take hostile actions against them in the real life. Even though children who realize they should keep their private information really private, can reveal some bits of information to a predator, who will then stick the facts together and find out what he needs. Data loggers, key loggers are just a few programs which harvest info from your computer. Winclear is the only program created specially to auto remove such spywares. Most anti-virus software does not adequately check for keyloggers and Spyware. That is why every computer owner needs winclear.

Protect With Winclear :Online Privacy
Identity theft protection is quickly becoming a hot topic. Every day, computer users are haunted by stories of people falling victim to identity theft. The biggest culprit in this recent rise in cyber crime is spyware, the buzzword that is on the lips of every internet user. Experts are now saying that nothing is 100 percent secure on the internet anymore, and users must take steps to protect themselves. Winclear is the only software which is capable of removing keylogger programs. If you visit a pet store online and commonly look at cat products the store will install a cookie that saves your preferences and tracks which pages you look at not only telling the company what their customers are viewing but giving you targeted results on the front page. Winclear has been the industry leader in fighting keyloggers for the last 8 years.

Winclear:
In fact we’re talking about feature-limited editions - less controls simpler admin panels no live support etc. That is the reason why you need Winclear installed onto your computer. Some keyloggers or computer spy software can be used as an Internet police or firewall. Protect your computer security by using Winclear! More about Winclear here: Winclear.

Reducing your exposure to Carcinogens Monday, Jun 23 2008 

Reducing the exposure to carcinogens is one of the “Major Recommendations for cancer prevention.” The American Cancer Society.
Charles Jacobson, compliance officer of the US. Consumer Product and Safety Commission in the area of toxic chemicals, said, “If every carcinogenic ingredient were banned, there would be hardly any products on the market.”

Do you know anyone who is troubled by respiratory problems, liver damage, kidney problems, chest pains, rashes, dizziness, convulsions, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, fatigue, headaches, nervousness, nausea, drowsiness, irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin or cancer ?
Well, ! It is likely caused by the “SEA OF CHEMICALS THEY ARE LIVING IN” !

These chemicals are found today in most Name Brand household products that are sold in your Grocery Stores, products that most of us have bought. At the time, we believed that they were safe for us to use in and around our home and family.

1: Isopropyl Alcohol poisonous, toxic & carcinogenic
2: Isopropanol poisonous toxic & carcinogenic
3: Benzyl - (benzene) poisonous, toxic & carcinogenic
4: Chlorine poisonous, toxic & carcinogenic
5: Phenol highly toxic & highly carcinogenic major killer in the US

6: Ammonia highly toxic & carcinogenic
7: Halogenated hydrocarbons highly toxic & carcinogenic
8: Aromatic amines carcinogenic
9: Amino Azobenzene carcinogenic
10: Methylene Chloride poisonous toxic, birth defects & carcinogenic
11: Perthloroethylene poisonous, toxic, birth defects & carcinogenic
12: Sodium Nitrite carcinogenic
13: Toluene toxic & carcinogenic
14: Xylene toxic & carcinogenic
15: Is amyl Alcohol toxic & carcinogenic
16: 4-Dimethylaminoazobenzene carcinogenic
17: Diethylene Glycol poisonous
18: Diethyl Ether poisonous
19: Sodium Hydroxide causes lung damage & destructive effect upon tissue
20: Sodium Hypochlorite bleaches) poisonous & toxic
21: Borax toxic
22: Hydrochloric Acid poisonous & toxic
23: Phosphorus highly poisonous & toxic (explosive)
24: Dichlorine monoxide extremely toxic
25: Chlorine monoxide extremely toxic
26: Chlorine dioxide extremely toxic
27: Chlorine hex oxide extremely toxic
28: Chlorine heptoxide extremely toxic

If you need more, read “A Consumers Dictionary of Household Yard and Office Chemicals” by Ruth Winters.
You can find a copy at your local Library.

If you are ready to change the products you currently use and make your home environmentally safe for your family, I can show you how. I can also show you how to make a part time or full time income showing others about the harmful chemicals found in household products and how to replace the products loaded with carcinogens to products that have natural ingredients but are very effective.

For more information you may email me at tc@thewinnersteam.net or visit my web site at http://tc.thewinnersteam.net.

Tami Calendo

posted by Tami Calendo @ 12:29 PM 0 comments

Your Trans National Property Market Space: Made Easy by Property Index Saturday, Jun 21 2008 

Overseas property specialists Property Index sell a range of properties such as apartments and villas.

Albeit Property Index is really a recent enterprise, doing business since March 2007, they have quick attained to expert status. In actuality they are a very simple enterprise and focus on offering advice to any individual who is expecting to buy, sell, rent etc. real estate in a global environment. They affirm to be of help to you to locate squarely what you are looking for swiftly and, obviously, straightforwardly. Land can be purchased across the world these days, probably the coolest area being property for sale in Spain. It should really be no big challenge to determine the phenomenal properties you can purchase in Spain, the motivation for looking into properties here is the houses and apartments available for sale and the possibility of living amid this bubbly, optimistic and welcoming population.

It’s one of the most well-liked markets these days, and with the gorgeous landscape and weather surrounding you here, how could you be wrong. Land in Spain is immersed in culture, art and history, this country has been and is still home to a fair number of sophisticated nations. About 30 years ago there’d be very few of Englishmen keen on properties in Spain. Just ask about anyone who has emigrated to Spain and they’ll be sure to confirm this. Most people would will insist on viewing it as a brief fashion and others will insist on viewing it as a that’s quite an obsession. Shoppers that will move to this region generally range from young well to do couples looking for a life perspective to the older generation looking to enjoy themselves.

Bear in mind, though, that you may hit on a few drawbacks when trying to purchase properties in a foreign market — there are normally a hundred procedures to manage be it when organizing, calling in or purchasing. If you only miss but a single minor action this can engender broad drawbacks and, most importantly, monetary loss. As can be supposed with this sought after location, properties could well be extremely high priced in this area and this, of course, is only on account of the great buyer demand. However, the real estate buyer is spoilt in terms of choice in such an area so great in terms of sunshiny topography and good scenery. It actually has practically all any of us may really wish for and more.

MLM Recruiting Success- The MLM Recruiting Myth in Network Marketing Wednesday, Jun 18 2008 

There is a Myth, a Lie, a Bogus concept that has been promoted to the MLM Industry for years, and recently in a seminar, I was asked during one of the breaks about it.

So many ideas and concepts are promoted in this industry that DO work, but on the other hand, there are many that don’t work, but yet they still promoted with fervor and fire.

One such idea is The MLM Recruiting Myth.

What is the recruiting myth that has been focused on but yet has proven to not work? This one has been promoted for years, and has had a negative impact on tens of thousands of distributors.

I am going to get some heat over this, but I would rather catch the heat, and tell the truth, than not.

INFERNO Secret:

MLM Recruiting is NOT just a Numbers game, as much as a CONNECTION and CONVICTION game.

Did you get that?

Network Marketing Recruiting is NOT just a Numbers game, but a Connecting and Conviction process.

Why?

I cannot tell you how many folks in Network Marketing have told me that they have worked a TON of numbers, but have yet to strike Gold in this business. And I recently saw a list of calls a distributor had made. She had made over 800 calls and over 500 people talked to in a certain time period. And yet the person had recruited only 2 people.

2 PEOPLE!

What’s Missing here? What’s the problem?

Let’s take a look at what she did:

1) The Numbers were there.

2) The Names were there.

3) The Phone calls where there.

4) The Effort was there.

5) The long distance bill was there.

But why was this sweet young lady still struggling and not finding the Success she was seeking?

GOOD QUESTION!

There is a “Lack Of” Factor in MLM Success that destroys many a business, and future in MLM.

What is that Lack Factor?

It was due to a Lack of Connection, and Conviction in many respects.

She lacked a TRUE Connection to the MLM Industry, her company, her products, and the income potential that was there before her. Her heart was simply NOT connected to it. She was NOT working this business, but only TRYING it. And people were FEELING that in her words, and perceived that as a negative. She was focused on what SHE could get out of it, not what the prospect could gain from her call.

People today are too sharp and experienced because of the onslaught of Telemarketers, to pay attention to most sales calls. And the ones they do pay attention to, even with friends, are the ones they CONNECT with, and feel the Conviction of the person and the willingness to help Increase, Expand, Enlarge, and Empower their life and future.

I asked this lady to say what she said to the 500 calls and I listened. And I just shook my head. This woman was working the numbers right, but working the MLM prospects totally WRONG. It was a sales pitch, and there was really no Conviction or Connection in her voice. There was only a sales pitch and an “I want your money” focus.

INFERNO Secret:

You can work all the numbers you want, but if the prospect is not communicated to CORRECTLY with Connection and Conviction, you have wasted most of the calls and your time.

Ok, here is the Million Dollar question:

How do you create Connection and Conviction?

INFERNO Secret:

Recruit them through THEIR eyes, not yours.

People join Direct Sales/MLM companies for THEIR reasons, not yours. And if you talk to 500 people and don’t take the time to see what is important to them and what they want to change and improve in their life, one thing for sure is NOT going to happen:

They won’t HEAR you. They might be listening, but they won’t hear what you are saying.

Find something you can relate to with them. Find something you have in common about the future. Find something that they want to change in their life and show them how your company can help bring that change about. And then display a sincere Conviction in helping them obtain it with your company and the business it offers.

You MUST understand that Numbers ARE important in Network Marketing. But just as in any other thing, the WAY you work the numbers is just as important, if not more important. Don’t be seduced with the myth that all you need are just numbers.

You need the MLM CONNECTION and CONVICTION to go along with it. They will make your efforts 10 times more powerful, and your check 10 times more exciting!

blessings.. doug Firebaugh (c) 2005/all rights reserved
http://www.passionfire.com

Doug Firebaugh is one of the top MLM Network Marketing
Trainers in the world. Over a million people a month
read his training ezine. He spent the last 7 years
traveling the world speaking and training on Success.
He lives in Birmingham Michigan, and you can receive a
FREE subscription to his training ezine- The MLM
Success HEAT- at:
http://www.passionfire.com/pf_heat_4.html

http://www.passionfire.com

Teaching Student Drivers: 9 Tips To Keep Everyone Safe And Sane Tuesday, Jun 17 2008 

I have had the experience of teaching several people how to drive. Some were youngsters, but I have also taught a few adults how to drive too. Let’s just say that I am more than glad to have “retired” from this practice as teaching someone how to drive can be taxing mentally as well as physically. Still, not everyone has the funds to go to driving school or an available friend to help out. So, if you are one of the “lucky” ones playing the role of instructor, here are some tips to help keep you sane and your student listening.

1. Set A Schedule. Keeping teens on a schedule can be nearly impossible as they juggle their busy lives with after school programs, work, homework, socializing, etc., but it is something that you must do. Find a time that works for the both of you and go out no more than one hour each time for your lessons. Oh, by the way, make sure your driver in training has his or her driver’s permit on them at all times.

2. Simple Start. Keep the first lesson or two simple. Backing in and out of the driveway and driving around the neighborhood first are good starts. If you live on a busy road, then you should drive the car to a less busy area before allowing your student to take over. At the very beginning, avoid driving on days when pavement is wet - dealing with water on the road is a separate lesson for the more experienced student.

3. A Good Beginning. Thirty years after I first received my license, I remember in my lessons being told that there were four things that a driver must do before even starting the car: door, seat, seatbelt, mirror. In other words: close and lock the doors, adjust the driver’s seat for your personal settings, fasten your seatbelt, and adjust side and rear view mirrors. Then, put the key in the ignition, start the car, look all around, engage the transmission, and slowly step on the accelerator and get moving.

4. Moving Forward. Once your driver has a good feel for the car - no jackrabbit starts or hard breaking observed - step things up and start practicing using hand and turn signals, parallel parking, how to negotiate turns and curbs, etc.

5. Stepping Out. After several lessons of driving locally and practicing safe driver habits, it is time to take the student out onto a busy road. Keep this lesson short to allow the nervous student time to adjust to driving in traffic. At least initially avoid rush hour traffic, highways, and areas with excessive pedestrian traffic. Make sure your student understands road signs, traffic signals, stopping/yielding, and the myriad of other rules of the road. Repeat lessons as needed to help your student grow accustomed to driving in traffic. Once your student builds up their confidence, take them out on the highway.

6. Study and Review. While behind the wheel lessons are extremely important, knowledge about driving rules and regulations are important too. When driving down the road, point out road signs and ask your student what they mean. Discuss the fines and points that can be assessed by the Department of Motor Vehicles {DMV} for violations. All of these things will be on their written test.

7. Defensive Driving. If you live in a more northerly climate, learning how to drive on ice and snow is essential to being a safe driver. Even if your student learns how to drive and secures their license in warmer months, insist on getting back in the car with them when wet leaves, snow, and ice are on the ground. Also make certain that your student understands how alcohol can impair judgment, how a radio, cell phone, or other passengers can distract them, and how to drive around pedestrians, bicyclists, mopeds, etc.

8. Check Fluids. An important lesson apart from actual driving and preparing for the written test is maintenance of the vehicle. Your student should be familiar with looking under the hood, checking fluid levels, hoses, belts, etc. Also show your student how to check tire pressure, do a visual check of turn signals, headlights, and all other lights. Familiarization with the exhaust and suspension systems is important too.

9. Ready, Set, Test! Once you are certain that your student understands all the rules of the road, is exhibiting safe driving practices, and is a confident driver then take the test. Do not let a pending birthday or special event drive that decision as you want to produce a safe driver, not a reckless one.

Once your student has passed their test make certain that the information on their license is correct, your car’s registration is up to date, your insurance has them covered, and the car that he will be driving is road ready before allowing him to drive by himself.

Remember, driving is a privilege and not a right. Good driving habits are formed early on, but so are bad habits. Nip any problems in the bud early to ensure the safety of your student and everyone else who is out on our roads.

Copyright 2006 - Matt Keegan is a contributing writer for the Auto Parts Warehouse, a leading wholesaler of quality performance and replacement parts for your vehicle. At the Auto Parts Warehouse we encourage all drivers to use their
turn signals,
adjust mirrors, and
check fluids to help ensure a safe and sane driving experience.

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