Ted Ollikkala

Surviving in the New Economy - How Did We Get Here?

News and Society: Economics • Published: January 7, 2010

We find ourselves in a catastrophic predicament. All of us. Do not blame governments, presidents, scientists, economists, or political parties. Do not panic. Remain calm and sensible. We must take responsibility for ourselves, wherever we live - and band together as never before if we are to survive.

Decisions in the New Economy (The Great Recession) - What Would I Do?

News and Society: Economics • Published: December 31, 2009

People in America seem to be worried about a possible permanent shift in the economy that occurred in 2008 with a series of cascading events. A perfect storm of easy credit, the housing boom, commodity speculation (mainly oil), and shady banking practices led to some disastrous events.

The World is Slowly Going Insane

Business: Ethics • Published: December 26, 2009

This can't be happening. Life is supposed to be good. But all around us (US) the quality of life is turning downhill. Most of us have realized this already, watching it from the extreme comfort of our well manicured lifestyles once thought to be immune from all forms of contamination, bugs, terrorists, and the neighbor next door.

Alternatives to a 4 Year Education in the New Economy (2010)

Reference and Education: College University • Published: December 26, 2009

With so many university graduates and ex-graduates finding themselves either jobless and /or starting to default on massive college loans, it is time to rethink the value of a traditional university education in lieu of a more practical and economic approach. A four year degree or higher no longer guarantees stability in the working world. While we have always known that some career fields are more lucrative than others, it is a disturbing trend that MBA graduates from Ivy League schools are no longer in demand and have resorted to entering the realm of the menial worker...

Fooled by Consumer Culture Long Enough

Home and Family • Published: December 23, 2009

For the first time in fifty years I actually saw through the whole scheme; the facade, as it were, of the much taken for granted ideal of consumerism. Boy, have we been bought off long enough... told where to shop, lured by false sales, mesmerized by painted smiles and standard cliches.

Halfway to Enlightenment - Just One Step More

Self Improvement: Spirituality • Published: October 19, 2009

Several Zen-like 'anti-gurus' such as Alan Watts and U.G. Krishnamurti have argued about the futileness of actively seeking enlightenment through strenuous effort, asceticism, or other various disciplines as a waste of energy that could best be put to more practical use.

Acting Out Your Life

Self Improvement: Mind Development • Published: October 14, 2009

There is a human body. And inside of this fantastic human body, connected to all of the motor muscles, nerves, and pain sensors, is a mind. But is the mind the 'ultimate you'? In this article we explore the connection between the mind, body, ego, personality, and something higher...

Life is a Joy - Avoiding the UG Krishnamurti Syndrome

Self Improvement: Spirituality • Published: October 2, 2009

Anyone who comes into contact with the ultra fascinating life-story and circumstances of UG Krishnamurti (not to be confused with J (Jedda) Krishnamurti) is in for a ride straight to the gates of whatever you define as your hell. In fact, it's like being alone in a car in the back seat, blindfolded!

Emotions - How to Stop Them From Running My Life?

Self Improvement: Techniques • Published: August 20, 2009

Emotions run in the basement of the brain. To rise above these primitive and petty masks that overshadow your being, you need to operate from a different center. If the basement is flooded, seek shelter on a higher floor. The water may rise, but so can you!

Cutting Through Crap - Spiritual Whack-A-Mole

Self Improvement: Spirituality • Published: August 20, 2009

Material psychologists and self-help authors have long prospered in their profession by embedding their clients into the old game of 'Whack-A-Mole' whereby once one (costly) problem has been addressed and cured, another pops up (from the same mind). There is a better way.

My Missed Learning Opportunities - Can I Go Back?

Self Improvement: Empowerment • Published: August 20, 2009

Many people regret not having learned more when they had the chance. As an adult, with the pressures of family and work, is there still time to improve yourself? The answer is yes! There is no need to feel guilty any longer.

21 Spiritual Sticky Notes to Improve Your Life

Self Improvement: Inspirational • Published: August 19, 2009

Banish your pet peeves, stop complaining, and get on with your life. Condensed wisdom for spiritual chickens.