Cellphones have made people lazy – it is far too easy to phone someone to solve a problem for you than to actually work it out for yourself.

In a previous version of my life I was on call 24 hours a day and also fielded calls of a technical nature – eventually the technical calls dwindled as the techs got used to me asking “Have you got a Manual”, Yes? “Okay, I will help you now by telling which page you can find the solution to your problem on, the next time you call I will refer you to the manual.” Don’t be afraid to make people that surround you strong – it works and is empowering.

I make judicious use of the OFF button and make it clear in all communications that my cellphone messages will NOT be answered, phoning me on the landline is better, e-mailing me even better and that my UNDIVIDED attention will be given to someone who visits – all done on an escalating need and priority basis.

The most effort normally results in the most reward.