Who are the idiots? The others... of course! Managers, colleagues, teachers, spouses, mothers-in-law - anyone who doesn’t behave ‘properly,’ that is, the way... we would like them to! Join the Boneheads’ Academy. Congratulations! You’ve just won free life time membership to the club, as chances are that you belong to several of the above categories. Time to realise that, if we ask others, you are the idiot in their lives! Idiotic thinking. Time to also realise that, all too often, we are the ‘idiots’ for ourselves! Irrational thoughts and beliefs create problems for our own selves and for those around us. There is hope. The infallible ‘Ro’ method can help you become a professional problem solver, and deal with annoying people, situations, and your own thoughts. A day with Don Stressote. Join in the adventures of this modern-day Don Quixote de la Mancha, a ‘Ro’ method graduate. Watch Don deal effectively with other idiots (drivers, managers, colleagues, clients, friends and relatives), as well as with the most difficult person among all... - himself! Dealing effectively with either major life events or daily stressors requires the ability to maintain composure / remain calm under pressure, take a time-out and ‘talk sense’ to oneself. Useful questions to ponder when under pressure include: -Is there something I can do right now to solve this problem? -Is it worth my time and energy? -Is my behaviour helping me deal with this and accomplish my ultimate goals? -What can happen to me, if I continue acting in a state of frenzy or remain depressed? -How long can my body endure in this state, without sustaining any undesirable health consequences? -How can I use this event? -What have I learned from it? -What good do I see in all of it? I am confident that the present book will change, if not the conditions in your life, at least the way you think and how you see your life - for the better! A. Rodafinos You can’t stop the birds of worry from flying over your head - but you can stop them from building their nest on your head.

1. I

2. Dr ANGELOS RODAFINOS
Author of Prince to frog and… vice versa!
IDIOTS ARE
INVINCIBLE
…and they always manage to ruin our day!
The fool-proof ‘Ro’ method1 to handle them, solve the
problems they create, and... enjoy the process!
Psychological techniques, manoeuvres, and real life examples
for effective problem solving, better relationships, stress
management, and a better quality of life.
MELBOURNE 2013
1
Any similarities with the infamous ‘R-20’ problem solving method
(Russian-20 year old, mail-order bride), is purely coincidental.
II

3. Translation: Klio Panourgias
Cartoons-Comics: Kostas Tsakonas, Lambros Lazouras,
Anna Konkouri, Kostas Papantoniou,
http://members.aol.com/DonnHolidays/Halloween.html
Cover page: http://zef.me/2117/funny-cat-pictures-suck (site
visited 2-5-2012)
ISBN: ...
Distribution www.rodafinos.weebly.com
© Copyright 2013 Angelo Rodafinos
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopy or otherwise or stored on
any retrieval system of any nature without prior written
permission of the author.
III

4. Kind words
In all honesty, your books have been monumental readings to me
(George Kyriakides, ΜΒΑ, PMP, CTP, Training Director, Human
Asset Ltd.).
You made me laugh out loud several times. I keep thinking about the
cartoons and smile inside me. Congratulations for your wonderful
book. You’ve done an amazing job! (Maria T., Lawyer).
A psychologist friend recommended that I should follow a Rodafinos
therapy, every morning, noon, and evening. Thank you for your
contribution in making our life more beautiful (Vaios Anthoulakis).
A book for a life time! I have thought of a few dozens of friends that
absolutely need to read it (Christina Vovori, Technical Office).
This is the first time that a text motivates me to contact the author. It
is really a great piece of work. Well organized, combines theory and
practice with a lot of humor. It can serve as a guide (Athina S.,
Lecturer, Aristotle University).
I wish to congratulate you for transmitting this knowledge in a
wonderfully unique manner (Melina Bavana, Business consultant).
I really enjoy readings your books! They improve my mood. It was
exactly what I needed and have helped me in my personal and
professional development. Keep writing in the same spirit (Elisavet
T.).
Incredible writing style, with so much humor that someone may
indeed consider changing his/her habits. Check it out. I do not know
the author; I was just impressed and wish to express it (Andria’s
blog).
If you could cast a spell on Angelos Rodafinos, what would it do?
Make him write a third book (Panos Megremis).
IV

5. Table of contents
The end
Borrow some bits
PART I: A little theory from here, some bits
from there, we
managed to write a
whole book …
1. Stress: what is it?
2. Sources of stress
3. The effects of stress
4. Stress and personality
PART II: Coping with stress
5. How you feel depends on…
6. Predicting and preventing stress
7. Responses to stress
8. The ‘Ro’ method
9. Option A: There is something I can do!
10. Option B: There is nothing I can do
11. From theory to practice
PART III: A day in life
12. Morning manoeuvres
13. Manoeuvres for the Road
14. Manoeuvres for the Angry
15. Work manoeuvres
16. Manoeuvres for the way back home
The beginning (Epilogue)
References
V

6. Note for the e-version of the book
If some books can change your life, I am confinent that this is
one of them. I guarantee it will change, if not the conditions in
your life, at least the way you think and how you see your life,
for the better.
At least this is what several hundreds of the thousands of the
readers of ‘Idiots are invincible’ who have contacted me in the
past few years claim.
If what you tried so far has not produced the desired results,
and if your approach is not working, then try a different
approach: read and test into practice the ‘Ro’ method and the
ideas described in the following pages. All you have to lose is
a little time - and perhaps several paper pages, if you choose to
print the book.
On the other hand, if the above claim is valid, the immediate
benefits may include:
 More effective problem solving
 Better decisions and choices
 Improved interpersonal relationships
 Less negative emotions (e.g., tension, anxiety, worry, guilt)
 A stronger immune system
 Feeling of control
 Increased self esteem
 Healthier habits
 Personal development
 A more pleasant and satisfying life
If you like it, feel free to share the sample chapters with your
friends.
A. Rodafinos
VI

7. SAMPLE CHAPTERS
VII

9. The end
“The most unfair thing about life
is the way it ends. I mean, life is
tough. It takes up a lot of your
time. What do you get at the end
of it? A Death! What’s that, a
bonus? I think the life cycle is all
backwards. You should die first;
get it out of the way. Then you
live in an old age home. You get
kicked out when you’re too
young, you get a gold watch, you go to work. You work forty
years until you’re young enough to enjoy your retirement. You
do drugs, alcohol, you party, and you get ready for high
school. You go to grade school, you become a kid, you play,
you have no responsibilities, you become a little baby, you go
back into the womb, you spend your last nine months floating...
and you finish off as an orgasm.”
- G. Carlin
1

10. THE… END? An unusual way to start a book. Probably
because this is an unusual book. I hope it will be an important
aid for the end, or at least, for the beginning of the end of
excessive stress and the start of a happier life. Off we go!
 Story: “Some escape!”
On a cold and rainy winter’s afternoon at an airport, a 12-
year-old observed a number of passengers who were waiting
for their flight. Their flight was delayed and they looked
worn out, exhausted and glum.
“How come those people look so tired?” the little boy asked
his father.
“… Perhaps because adult life is tough,” replied the father.
“You mean I will also become like this when I grow up?”
wondered the 12-year-old.
After taking a minute to think, his father responded:
“Some people manage to escape.”
Who manages to escape? Is it true that some individuals do
indeed manage to get away; or is it that some people just
happen to face fewer adversities in their lives? What kind of
coping strategies do people adopt when faced with life’s
challenges? These are the questions that intrigued Paul Stolts,
the University of Pennsylvania professor who
shared the story above, as well as a number of
distinguished researchers, including, of course,
myself!
Is this how I’ll be when I grow up? I think I’ll
pass!
2

11. HOW ARE YOU DOING?
So, how are you doing?
A common reply I receive from participants in my seminars is:
“Blah, I’m constantly running around, too much stress!” And,
as the conversation starts rolling, questions on the topic start
falling:
“What is stress?”
“Is it normal?”
“Can stress be useful?”
“What are the health consequences of excessive stress?”
“I don’t have a lot of stress. Is this dangerous?”
To find answers to the aforementioned questions, you’ll have
to read the following chapters. They’re there; but since you
insist and I have taken a liking to you, oh well, I’ll answer just
a couple, selectively, just to get you interested.
Some people believe that feeling stressed day and night is
harmless. Wrong! It’s actually suicide, because negative
emotions secrete hormones that affect our health and may, in
the long term, have negative effects on our bodies. Too little
stress, on the other hand, can have similar results!
Q.: “Who has the most problems to deal with?”
A.: “We do, of course!”
3

12. Q.: “Are there some ‘lucky individuals’ who were born with
superior resistance to stress? Is it possible to be completely
‘insensitive?’ What can one do to reduce (or increase) stress?”
A.: “Yes. No. A lot.”
Q.: “If I read this book, will I be able to get rid of stress for
good?”
Okay, I’ll answer this one as well, for the sake of marketing
the book. I guess the answer is similar to the one for the
question “if I take a bath will I smell nice forever?” or “if I eat
a lot, will I feel hungry again?” The reduction or, rather, the
management of stress needs to be a continuous, life-long
process.
Here’s a gratis Q&A, on the house:
Q.: “What’s in it for me if I reduce stress?”
A.: The benefits of stress management include, among others,
better interpersonal relationships, a stronger immune system
and fewer diseases, wellbeing and a more pleasant and
satisfying life, and making a significant step towards the
realization of one’s full potential (if this can ever be
achieved...).
Isn’t it strange? When we have a headache or a stomach ache
we share our problem with everyone around, visit the doctor,
follow the prescription, try ‘alternative medicine’2, we even
2
That is, therapies whose effectiveness has not been proven under well-
planned and controlled conditions – otherwise it would have been classified
as medicine...
4

13. follow the advice of quacks3. On the contrary, when we suffer
from excessive stress or an overall dissatisfaction with our life,
we often do nothing but complain to people who are, on the
whole, unable to help us resolve our problems.
There is so much talk about stress on a daily basis... without
anyone ever saying enough. I sincerely hope that this book will
become a significant aid that will assist you for the rest of your
life. In this relatively simplified manual I have tried to
summarize a series of theories and techniques alongside a
number of everyday life applications. I have, as much as
possible, avoided numerous references and academic citations
to scientific studies so that the material can understood by
everyone. I assure you however, that what you are about to
read is cross-referenced, with evidence and results from
legitimate scientific research apart, perhaps, from the folk
wisdom that stems from the short tales cited; these proffer a
common knowledge that has, actually, been available through
the ages.
Share your knowledge. It’s a way to
achieve immortality.
Q.: “Do you practice what you preach?”
A.: Let me tell you my story. I too was a champion at 15; a
champion… worrier. Unfortunately, worrying never became
an Olympic event; otherwise I would have been able, at that
time, to compete at top level. I received extensive training. My
3
My links page in my web site rodafinos.weebly.com provides a very
interesting list of pseudosciences and related web pages.
5

14. parents were champions too! Besides, despite popular belief,
Greeks have a great National worrying team:
“Do this, don’t do that, you haven’t eaten enough, wear this,
watch out, you’ll hurt yourself, be careful, you’ll catch a
cold…”
This lasted for years. I went through the first 24 years of my
young life having no idea about the principles described in the
following chapters. I have to admit that, although my life has
improved a lot since I’ve read and mastered the related
psychological theories and applications, I often neglect to
apply them when under pressure. Yet, I wish I had been
exposed to them earlier, when I was in secondary or primary
school!
 Story: How our mind… runs
Al Oerter is a disc thrower who competed in four Olympic
Games and was, therefore, in top physical condition for at
least 16 years. According to Dr Dennis Waitley, Al made the
following statement when he was in his 40s:
“By the time I realized that success is 90% the result for how
our mind runs and 10% the result of how we run, my body
had already become a senior citizen! Oh, could I be young;
if only I could have had this knowledge earlier in my life.”
As I mentioned earlier, a single reading or a week will not
suffice to apply some of these ideas. They have to become
habits and part of your way of life. You also need to hang out
with the right people, those who will help you stay on the
straight and narrow, when things get tough. Because, while I
cannot guarantee that things will always run smooth, I can
certainly guarantee that setbacks are inevitable.
6

15. Some of you may well wonder:
Q.: “Can we really improve our psychological state so as to
feel better when things are not the way we’d like them to be?”
A.: I am confident that I can offer a number of valuable
suggestions. Go ahead, turn the pages, and flick through the
book for a brief preview. You’ll enjoy it.
The way forward
The book is divided into three parts. The first part is relatively
theoretical, and as such, slightly ‘heavier’ that the other two.
Still, I suggest you read all parts, both easy and difficult, if you
want to better yourselves.
More specifically, the first part offers a definition of stress,
refers to the main sources of stress (which include ‘the idiots’),
and examines whether personality traits are related to the way
individuals perceive and experience stress. The effects of
excessive stress on physical health are discussed next.
The second part distinguishes between healthy and unhealthy
responses to stress and presents the basic principles of stress
management. Of course, this section also contains the world-
first introduction of the celebrated ‘Ro’ method, a simple yet
sophisticated problem solving procedure for dealing with
annoying people and situations. It is a foolproof (!) method
that can be applied to any sort of problem you may be facing
today or that you may face in the future.
In the third part, the writing style changes radically. Using a
humoristic approach, it describes a day in the life of Don
Stressote, a modern Don Quichote. The hero, who has just
7

16. finished reading the theoretical section and is, therefore, a
proud graduate of the ‘Ro’ method, attempts to apply the
theory in everyday life situations. From the moment he wakes
up till the evening when he returns home exhausted, armed
with courage and stoicism, Don confronts the monsters and
dragons (the idiots) of the 21st century: his partner who got to
the toilet first and is now studying Rodafinos’ book insensitive
to the needs of others, the obese guy in the tiny elevator who
squeezes him into the corner, the traffic, his stupid boss, the
disgruntled client at work, and the most difficult person of all:
himself and his irrational expectations.
Don differs from other mere mortals thanks to his humour, his
determination, his commitment to his pledge “I won’t let any
idiot ruin my day, ‘cause this is MY day!”, and his careful
preparation of an action plan on how to deal both with small
annoyances and seemingly unconquerable summits.
Don’s ability to maintain the appropriate distance from every
problem is of the utmost importance. He can put things into
perspective, offering every event the necessary attention and
nothing more. All this takes place in the final part; by that time
readers, suitably assisted by the Big Black Bear, eventually
realize a) why they have read 300 pages of this book, b) who
they really are, and c) what they are doing on this planet; they
also get answers to a number of other philosophical and...
metaphysical questions.
Tips for readers
Some of the ideas that will be presented in this book, much
like my previous one, may initially appear slightly strange.
Maintain a critical view and do not accept everything you read.
8

17. You are entitled to your own opinion.4 Think, question, and
cross-check the information.
I have always been impressed by scepticism and the ability (or
inability) of the human brain for critical thought. People are
quick to believe that the sky contains 413 trillion stars without
having to count them, but if you tell them that a bench is
freshly painted they need to test it with their finger to verify
the truth of the statement. They are equally gullible to star
signs, coffee-grind readings, psychics5, and tarot cards without,
for an instance, stopping to ponder the validity of every
ridiculous and absurd theory they rush to embrace.
The material in this book is aimed at readers with analytical
thinking skills who are interested in stress and want to
organize their thoughts or add more information to their
existing knowledge.6 It is also aimed at cognitive misers, i.e.,
at most of us, who wish to avoid spending a lot of time and
effort reading everything there is to read about stress. They just
want to feel better now! If you happen to belong to the latter
4
You will, of course, be wrong… besides, who would be silly enough to
argue with the expert? Yet, as we said, you do not need to agree with me on
everything you read.
5
I’ve always wondered why we need to… book an appointment before
visiting a psychic.
6
The book does not aim to replace the advice of your psychologist,
psychiatrist, or other health professional. All information contained in
Idiots are invincible has been checked for accuracy and published in good
faith. However, the author and the publisher accept no responsibility on any
grounds whatever, including liability for negligence, for the use or misuse
of the information contained in this document.
9

18. category, you may choose to go straight to the third part, which
presents everyday applications of the theory that is described
in the first two parts.
Test: true or false?
Before we begin, why don’t we – or, rather, why don’t you -
perform a test to check your knowledge on stress. Grab pen
and paper7. Come on now, don’t be a party-pooper…
Got pen and paper ready? Good. Now write T (True) or F
(False) next to each statement – on your paper, not on the
book, don’t play dumb and don’t pretend you didn’t read the
instructions!
Too many good things in a row can make you sick.
Travel and traffic jams can increase your blood pressure.
Stress, behaviour, and certain personality traits can increase
one’s chances of becoming ill.
Most headaches are caused by muscle tension.
Stress can affect the course of cancer.
Stress is the best substrate for the activation and
multiplication of various pathogenic microorganisms, as it
decreases the effectiveness of the immune system.
Individuals can moderate the frequency, intensity, duration
and, as a result, the consequences or effects of stress.
7
I suggest you do not write on the book; John may feel jealous later and
want to do the test himself.
10

19. Personal development efforts, such as health education
(nutrition, exercise, and smoking cessation), training in
emotional management, and behaviour modification
contribute to better physical and psychological health.
A sense of humour can buffer the effects of stress.
Married people live longer and have 30% higher incomes.
The answers to the above statements are… somewhere in this
book (even I don’t remember exactly where). I guess you’ll
have to read on.8 And, once you’ve read it, you should buy it
as a present for your friends and relatives.9 What better than a
useful book, instead of cakes and drinks on birthdays and other
special occasions?
Happy reading!
8
Alright, just for the impatient readers - not for you - here are the answers.
All statements are true. Read on to find out how and why!
9
I’m just wishing you have a lot - I need to build my beach house soon...
11

21. CHAPTER 8
The ‘Ro’ Method
He who cannot change the very fabric of his thought will
never be able to change reality.
– A. Sadat
ONE THING IS FOR SURE: we cannot always control
other people or external events. We can, however, control our
thoughts, regulate our emotions, and adjust our behaviour - to
a large extent.10 Thus, what happens to us is nearly as
important as how we perceive and respond to it.
You have probably heard the following Alcoholic Anonymous
(Α.Α.) serenity prayer11:
“Give me the strength to change the things that I can change,
the courage to endure the things that I cannot change, and the
wisdom to know the difference between the two.”
10
It may sound a little extreme and ‘robot-like-thinking,’ but please bear
with me for a couple of chapters, before you reject the idea.
11
Also attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi, among others.
85

22. At first, this appears to be a simplistic approach. On the
contrary, the serenity prayer is the basis for a very effective
problem solving method, which can be applied to all sorts of
problems. Indeed, there are two basic choices in life: (a) to
accept conditions as they are or, (b) to accept the responsibility
to change them.
As simple it may be to make things
complex, it is equally as complex to
simplify them.
Alas, most people ‘struggle’ with the third part of the A.A.
prayer. Carried away by their emotions, they do not have the
clarity to take a step back and examine:
1. Whether the specific problem is amenable to change.
2. If its priority is high, compared to other demands.
3. The plan of action that they need to follow.
4. The amount of time and energy resources they are willing to
invest in order to deal with the problem (Rodafinos, 2003).
In the following pages I will coach you in a simple method, an
application of the essence of the axioms and theory offered in
the previous chapters, presented in a logical sequence of
thoughts and steps. As mentioned, the particular method can be
used to deal with any kind of problem, large or small,
important or not so important. Ladies and gentlemen, I present
you the ‘Ro’ method!
According to the ‘Ro’ Method, there are only two options for
any type of problem life brings about: (a) we can either do
something about it or, (b) we cannot.
86

23. CHAPTER 8 – The Ro Method
There are t wo kinds of worries – those
you can do something about and those
you can’t. Don’t spend any time on the
latter.– Duke Ellington
The method will help you clarify in your mind the basic
options related to each of the two cases. It will help you
answer questions such as:
“What can I do if I can do something about the problem and
what can I do in case I… cannot do something?”
The diagram and the table that follow present the Ro method
schematically.
Ro
A. I can do something B. Nothing I can do
B1. Changing appraisal
A1. Problem solving
B2. Emotion regulation
87

24. Challenge (problem):
…………………………………………………………………
(Use the space above to write the problem that concerns you)
Options
A B
I can do something Nothing I can do
Approach
A1 B1 Β2
Problem solving Reappraisal Regulation of
emotions
Steps: Psychological Physical
or cognitive methods
- Definition of problem techniques
- Evaluation Massage,
- Alternative plans Humour, music,
- Selection of solution self talk, relaxation,
- Implementation reappraisal, meditation,
- Outcome assessment rational physical
thinking, exercise,
worst case proper nutrition
scenario,
searching for
positive aspects,
putting things
into perspective
Q Exercise: Pick a problem
I now want you bring to mind one of the issues that are
concerning you during this period. In order to deal with it,
88

25. CHAPTER 8 – The Ro Method
we will work as a team: you, me, and your good friends, if
you wish. Do not sweat; this will not be too hard. In two…
pages from now we will have solved it (or you will have
forgotten all about it). The clock (page count) starts now:
The problem that concerns me is
……….………………………………………………………
……….………………………………………………………
……….………………………………………………………
……….………………………………………………………
If you can fix the thing that worries you,
then fix it; otherwise don’t waste
precious time or energy on it.
– Colleen Grant
Have you made your choice? Off we go then, one step at a
time. Stay with me.
I work out, watch what I eat, never smoked a cigarette…
Do I need to attend or can I go?
89

27. CHAPTER 9
Scenario A: I can do something about it
A rooster is chasing a hen. The hen, while running, is
thinking: If I stop and succumb, they will call me ‘easy.’ If I
keep running, I will miss the opportunity. I know: I will just
trip over!
THE FIRST and important step in confronting any problem is
to make sure we have determined precisely what the problem
is – and that we are not confusing it with something else, either
a related issue or a consequence of the problem. Indeed, quite
often, although we have the impression that our problem is
something superficial, a deeper or unconscious issue may be
the underlying cause. For instance, it may be that something is
bothering us at work or in our relationship and we attribute the
annoyance to our colleague or our partner, while in reality we
91

28. [Pages not available in the free version]
92

29. CHAPTER 10
Scenario B: Nothing I can do right now
The perception of the event IS the event itself!
– D. Chopra
IN CASE there is nothing we can do at this stage or, if our
efforts have so far proved fruitless, there are only two
solutions: either change the way we perceive the situation
and/or manage our emotions.
B1. REFRAMING
“Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their
opinions about the things,” stated Epictetus. Centuries later
Shakespeare adopted the same idea, followed by cognitive
psychologists. One of the latter, Ellis (1998), built his methods
on the axiom expressed by good old Epictetus.
In an attempt to become even more famous than his
predecessors, philosopher Rodafinos, 2000 years later,
plagiarized... I mean paraphrased the concept in a new quote:
“What you see or what you think is happening is not
necessarily what is happening. There is no stress in any
situation, unless… you think there is. Things become as
important as you allow them.”
93

30. Chapter 10: Nothing I can do
The greatest discovery of the century is not the microchip or
the advent of DNA sequencing. It is that a human being can
alter their life by altering the attitudes of their mind argued
William James. It is the revelation that we can change our
entire life, without altering external conditions. If our opinion
of things is more important than the things themselves, all it
takes is to change the way we view our life.
In the Enchiridion and the Diatribes, Epictetus continues: “Of
things some are in our power and others are not.” How true!
We cannot always change the world outside us. Yet, we can
always change the world inside us. As we have complete
control over our thoughts, we can alter the way we perceive
external events. Khalil Gibran agrees – it’s how we see it:
Your living is determined not so much
by what life brings to you as by the
attitude you bring to l ife. Not so much
by what happens to you as by the way
your mind looks at what happens.
Indeed, events may affect the course of our lives. But as R.
Holden added: “Circumstances and situations do colour your
life but you have been given a mind to choose what the colour
shall be.”
Interesting! What colour shall we use today? Light salmon
pink12 perhaps…?
12
If you are having difficulties in picking the appropriate color, visit
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_colors ...to become more perplexed.
94

31. Cognitive methods aim to alter our perception and reduce the
effects of stressors. They usually consist of a conscious effort
to reappraise the demands or redefine the importance of the
stressful situation.
Is it plausible? It is! How else could two individuals react in a
totally different manner when placed in the exact same
situation, such as, for instance, a roll-a-coaster? One is
exhilarated and the other needs disposable diapers. Their
physical responses may, of course, be very similar: raised heart
and breathing rate, profound sweating, muscle tension, etc.
Obviously, the differences in responses are due to differences
in the appraisal of the situation.
Most of what we see is only what we
think about what we see.
According to the cognitive approach, we are able to examine
and redefine what we conceived as a threat and what not. By
changing our perception of the situation, we are in a position to
also influence the fight or flight response; that is, our changes
in our physiology, blood pressure, heart and breathing rate that
we mentioned earlier.
Our appraisal of what is threatening is linked to our previous
experiences and our beliefs and value system, and is not purely
the result of external conditions. Consequently, our previous
experiences and our value system have a considerable
influence on the way we react to events.
95

32. Chapter 10: Nothing I can do
Question: Can we control our emotions? 13
We cannot always adj ust situations to
our desires - but we can always adapt
our desires to the situations.
If we accept that we do exercise a certain amount of control
over our thoughts, the answer to the question posed in the
heading is positive, because our emotions stem from our
thoughts. Yet, a number of people believe that we have no or
little control of our thoughts. This impression is normal
because our thoughts are very often fired by external stimuli.
The ‘flame’ is then strengthened by previous learning, past
experiences, and the power of habit. Too often we fall into the
trap of replaying negative recordings and scripts that are stored
in our brain’s CD player and have become model emotional
responses to specific situations: “When such and such happens,
I have to feel …this way.”
A typical example is the infamous Greek ‘mountza,’ the
equivalent of the middle finger gesture.
According to Greek custom and tradition, when someone
‘decorates’ us with the extended open-five-finger palm, the
conditioned response is to get back at them. ‘Idiot’ or ‘In your
face, you jerk!’ The truth is that many have died of heart
attacks in their effort to prove ‘how important they are,’ and to
13
The present chapter includes extracts from chapter 15 of my book From
prince to frog… and vice versa (Rodafinos, 2003). I have included them
because if someone did not have the pleasure of reading the particular
chapter, he/she will have difficulty understanding what it is all about. I
apologize to my loyal readers who may have to perform some repetition
which of course is the “mother of all learning,” right?
96

33. respond to the offence of the traditional Greek mountza or an
equivalent offence.
“Do you know who I am?” they boast and retort, without
expecting an answer, with the blood vessels on their neck all
pumped up.
This is a learned response that passes from father to son. Trust
me, I know. My own father often used to ‘decorate’ fellow
humans with cute little or larger mountzas while driving.
Observing with admiration the model of my childhood, I also
learned to use the infamous mountza. The problem is that all
Greeks have learned its use in the same traditional manner, and
often reciprocate:
“In your face, Rodafinos!”
Moreover, on a great number of occasions, others gladly throw
a mountza in my face, anticipating my move!
It surely must be a Greek custom, because to ‘barbarians’ (i.e.,
non-Greeks) the mountza looks like a… salutation! Hence,
they do not become offended or feel the automatic urge to
reciprocate.
We end up believing that we do not control our thoughts
partially because some of our responses are to a great degree
automatic. Yet, if we do not control them, who does? Find
them and send them to me for treatment ASAP, in order to…
improve your mental health!
97

34. Chapter 10: Nothing I can do
Now, you too can throw ‘mountzas’ easily, quickly, and
accurately by using the new MNTZ-16 moutza-shootgun. On
sale now, while stocks last.
We feel the way we think
Everything has its beauty but not
everyone sees it. – Confucius
Rational emotive therapy is taught and used by a great number
of psychologists. According to Albert Ellis (1962, 1988), its
founder, it is not the external event but rather our belief and
value system that triggers our emotions after processing the
event. Thus, Ellis argues, if we change our way of thinking,
our emotions will follow. Our values and beliefs, the
moderating factors that act as our personal filters of the world
are, by and large, a result of learning – oh yes – and
environmental influences.
Quite often though, many of our beliefs are out-dated. They
may be the result of information acquired through learning and
experience, but are not necessarily correct today. As a
consequence, our thinking and our expectations may, on
occasion, prove irrational or limiting. Hence, every now and
then, it is imperative to identify, re-examine and question our
beliefs and either change them or adjust them according to the
new data.
98

35. [Pages not available in the free version]
99

37. CHAPTER 11
From theory to practice
The road to learning by precept is long, but by example
short and effective.
– Seneca
IN THIS CHAPTER we will put the theoretical principles
and the ‘Ro’ method to the test, and present specific examples
and suggestions. As you will observe, the examples more often
focus on changing our appraisal rather than on changing the
external event simply because, as I noted earlier, events are not
always under our control and amenable to change.
Our first goal should probably be to resolve each problem and
modify the external conditions to our satisfaction. However,
when this is not feasible, we need to re-examine our
expectations, change our non-adaptive responses, and manage
our negative emotions.
The following section also includes several bonus enlightening
(and sometimes confusing) famous quotes on theory and
practice, such as this one:
101

38. Chapter 11: From theory to practice
In theory, there is no difference between
theory and practice. But, in practice,
there is. – Y. Berra
APPLICATIONS
As I have already noted, the ‘Ro’ method can be applied to any
problem. Let us put it to test on two difficult scenarios.
Scenario Alpha: financial problems
Assume I have a publishing company facing financial hardship
(the scenario can become very realistic if you do not urge your
friends to buy this wonderful book).
My immediate – not so conscious, if you wish – response is to
transfer my negative emotions to the employees and, at the
same time, or consequently, to my debtors and suppliers.
Frustrated as I am, I blame and curse the municipality, the
system, the government, and whoever dares to appear in front
of me. I take it out on my spouse, I might even explode at the
kids, kick the cat, or even hurt Elias, my best man’s little
tortoise.
Scenario Beta: relative with serious health
problems
Next, let us assume that I am the caretaker of a beloved
relative who is suffering from Alzheimer or is becoming
senile. (The scenario is all mine, so I get to choose the disease
and who will suffer…!)
I am facing all the related problems, such as seeking medical
support, finding a house nurse, the difficulty of dealing with
the financial expenses, etc. I invest a lot of my energy in
102

39. cursing the usual suspects: the municipality, the system, the
government, and take it on my wife, the kids, the dog, even
Elias, my best man’s tortoise.
However, deep down inside a little voice is telling me that
blaming others, no matter how good I’ve become at it with all
the practice, does not do me any good; in either scenario.
“So, what can you do? Apply a new tactic? Change course yet
again?”
Wait a minute, didn’t you pay good money to hear – or
rather… read me?
“We did, indeed.”
Well, then, read first, and make your comments afterwards.
In theory, practice is simple.
– T. Reenskaug
THE MIGHTY ‘RRRO’ METHOD … IN PRRRACTICE!
The dead end I have arrived at due to my ineffective responses
(blaming others) will, at some stage, force me to get my act
together. In an attempt to keep emotions away from logic, I
think of the two basic choices suggested by the ‘Ro’ [Ro-
dafinos] method:
(a) There is something I can do about the problem right now,
(b) There is not much I can do (at least not at this stage).
Let us re-examine the two scenarios (Alpha and Beta), always
bearing these two options in mind.
103

40. Chapter 11: From theory to practice
But, is it simple to practice theory?
– A. Boily
Option A: I can do something
“Of course I can!” I resolve, with regards to scenario Alpha. A
brainstorming session with my associates produces a list with
the following possible actions: I can develop a new marketing
plan for my product, come up with a more intelligent
advertising campaign, organize fanfares, trumpet blasts, and
parades, offer freebies, train my staff, cut expenses, find a
cheaper supplier, get professional advice from a coach or a
mentor. Alternatively or in addition to the above, I can get a
group of friends and relatives to write letters to newspapers,
ministers, everyone in charge and even those out of charge,
vote for the opposition party in the next elections, put up
resistance, organize teams of citizens to revolt against the
state… after all, power comes from unity!
“Of course I can!” I resolve, with regards to scenario Beta as
well. I can attend training and educational seminars on the
nature and demands of caring for Alzheimer patients and how
to deal with these, I can contact and learn from others facing
similar situations, I can join the related association.
Alternatively or in addition to the above, I can organize
donations and events to sensitize and motivate my fellow
citizens and the state, write letters to newspapers etc.
Right! Now, there is a chance that my efforts will produce the
desirable results, but there is also a chance that the outcome
will not be the desired one. At this point, I may very well
choose to try nothing more and give up. Yet, I have to
understand that getting upset and overwhelming with
complaints people who have nothing to do with my problem or
those who cannot do something about it, does not help me find
104

41. a solution anyway. On the contrary, such behaviour can create
additional problems: damage my relationships with my
employees, suppliers, customers, my family, or the person who
absolutely needs my support and positive attitude…
Allow me to repeat that learning to distinguish between the
situations over which we can exert control and those we cannot
is of utmost importance. At the same time, we need to develop
the ability to examine whether we are really willing to allocate
time and invest energy in order to change the situation we are
confronted with.
Option B: not much I can do right now
If the answer to the question “is there something I can do?” is
negative, we are better off, I repeat for the Nth time (is it clear
yet, or should I go about beating you over the head?),
accepting the fact that we cannot always control what happens
outside us. On the contrary we have a lot of control –
particularly after continuous and persistent training – to what
happens inside us, i.e., our thoughts, emotions, and responses.
Again, the problem here is that most of us try to change
situations that, at least at this stage, are not amenable to
change. As a result, we pointlessly waste time and energy that
could more efficiently be channelled into something else, more
important. For example, we could try to acquire further
information and knowledge about the problem studying those
who solved it effectively, work on and strengthen our
relationships with other members of our family, relatives or
good friends, ask for help from our social support network,
improve our skills and enrich our repertory of coping
strategies.
105

42. Chapter 11: From theory to practice
Your turn now!
The time – or rather the… page – has come for us to work
together on dealing with the problem you selected a while – or
rather a few… pages – ago.
Men advance better when practicing the
theory. – I. Stobaeus
P‘Ro’blem-solving form
1. Problem title (use your own words)
…………………………………………………………………
2. Description of the problem (draw it, if you have to)
…………………………………………………………………
3. Who is to blame – usual suspects (individuals or
organizations)
 My parents  My teachers  Genes  The stars
 The company  The system  God  Other.....
4. Does blaming help?
 No  No (Please tick one box only)
5. Can I do something to change the situation?
 Yes. Go to section A below.
 No. Skip section A and go to B.
106

43. (A) What can I do? (brainstorming, evaluation of ideas)
…………………………………………………………………
6. What more can I learn about the issue?
…………………………………………………………………
7.
[Pages not available in the free version]
107

45. In the Third and final part we will explore specific applications
of the ‘Ro’ method at home, when commuting, when dealing
with people who upset us, and at work. Our hero, Don
Stressote, will serve as the model, altruistically putting himself
to the test in order to provide specific real life examples for
you!
109

47. End of the free part…
As folk wisdom has is, all good things come to an
end. You have reached the end of the FREE part of
the book ‘Idiots are invincible.’
Yet, this does not really have to be the end. Dr
Rodafinos, the president of the Boneheads Academy
(AKA Idiots Club), invites you to a) join the club and
tell us your personal stories in the related Idiot’s blog,
and b) continue reading by purchasing the printed or
the electronic version.
A gift with a MEANING!
There is no need to stop after buying your personal
copy. You are allowed to order two or more copies,
on the side for gifts - rather than aimlessly wondering
around, searching for a last minute present for a
friend’s anniversary, birthday, a dinner invitation etc.
You may also wish to visit the author’s site to find out
about future events, watch video presentations,
download free lecture material, articles, podcasts, and
send your feedback.
The President
Angelo Rodafinos
111

48. Special thanks 14
… to the dear readers who literally embraced the Greek
version and shared their experiences with me online and by
phone; some introduce themselves in person on the street, in
shops, at the cinema, and joyfully describe the changes they
accomplished in their lives.
… to the most loyal ‘fans,’ who read extracts every morning,
applying generous splashes of Eau de ‘Ro’ to get them through
the day. I am flattered and will probably become slightly
arrogant, but don’t worry, carry on. I can take it!
... to friends and colleagues who have proofread drafts and
suggested corrections.
... to Kostas Tsakonas, Lambros Lazouras, and Anna Konkouri
who illustrated the text with their sketches.
14
Note: I have made every effort to acknowledge the original authors of
short tales, quotes, and texts and to ensure their content is as accurate as
possible. Wherever this was feasible their names are noted in accordance
with ethics and copyright law requirements. However, on certain occasions,
these are either attributed to more than one source, or are orphan (i.e., of
unknown origin; you know, the ones we tend to call ‘Chinese proverb’),
and I have not been able to identify the copyright owner. If you know the
source, kindly email me the information, so that the necessary corrections
can be made in future editions.
112

49. This page ...unintentionally left blank
113

50. Idiots are invincible…
and they always manage to ruin our day.
Psychological applications for
effective problem solving,
improved relationships, stress
management, and better quality
of life.
Theme Psychology, Stress,
Self-development
ISBN: ...
Size 17 Χ 25cm, Pbk, 90gr
velvet, cover 4 colours, matt,
plastic.
Sales rodafinos.weebly.com
SUMMARY
Who are the idiots? This is one of the few questions in the
world that most people agree on its answer: The others... of
course! Managers, colleagues, teachers, spouses, mothers-in-
law - anyone who doesn’t behave ‘properly,’ that is, the way...
we would like them to!
Join the Boneheads’ Academy. Congratulations! You’ve just
won free life time membership to the club, as chances are that
you belong to several of the above categories. Time to realise
that, if we ask others, you are the idiot in their lives!
114

51. Idiotic thinking. Time to also realise that, all too often, we are
the ‘idiots’ for ourselves! Irrational thoughts and beliefs create
problems for our own selves and for those around us.
There is hope. The infallible ‘Ro’ method can help you
become a professional problem solver, and deal with annoying
people, situations, and your own thoughts.
A day with Don Stressote. Join in the adventures of this
modern-day Don Quixote Quichote de la Mancha, a ‘Ro’
method graduate. Watch Don deal effectively with other idiots
(drivers, managers, colleagues, clients, friends and relatives),
as well as with the most difficult person among all... - himself!
A ‘normal’ life is not always a ‘happy’ life.
“… grant me the courage to change the things that I can
change, the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change,
and the wisdom to know the difference between the two”, is a
popular motto by Alcoholics Anonymous. Most of us fail in
the third part, as we hopelessly try to change things that either
are not amenable to change or unworthy of our time and
energy.
Dealing effectively with either major life events or daily
stressors requires the ability to maintain composure / remain
calm under pressure, take a time-out and ‘talk sense’ to
oneself. Useful questions to ponder when under pressure
include:
-Is there something I can do right now to solve this problem?
-Is it worth my time and energy?
-Is my behaviour helping me deal with this and accomplish my
ultimate goals?
115

52. -What can happen to me, if I continue acting in a state of frenzy or
remain depressed?
-How long can my body endure in this state, without sustaining
any undesirable health consequences?
-How can I use this event?
-What have I learned from it?
-What good do I see in all of it?
You can’t stop the birds of worry from flying over your head - but
you can stop them from building their nest on your head.
The book aims to inspire, as well as to educate. In the first part
the author discusses stress, its sources and its effects, followed
by the ‘Ro’ Method, a simple but complete problem solving
process, and a number of examples and real life applications.
Then, using a light, humorous and innovative style, the author
describes the day of ‘Don Stressote,’ a modern Don Quichote
de la Mancha and ‘Ro’ Method graduate, who attempts to
apply the theory in everyday life situations. Armed with
courage and stoicism, Don deals with the monsters and the
dragons (the idiots) of the 21st century: his partner who entered
the toilette first and is reading the newspaper insensible to the
needs of others, the obese fellow in the elevator, the traffic
jam, his stupid boss, the thick-skinned client, as well as the
most difficult person among all – his own self and his
irrational expectations…
Don’s positive state of mind, and his determination and focus
on his pledge “I won’t let any idiot ruin my day, ‘cause this is
my day!” together with a careful plan of action on how to deal
with little annoyances and seemingly unsurpassable obstacles,
is what distinguishes our hero from the average/normal citizen.
116

53. A number of applied psychological techniques, combined with
examples and exercises assist the reader to make positive
changes towards a) either solving problems or b) altering the
way s/he sees the situations. Specifically, the author offers
simple tips and street-smart ideas and remedies for those who
want to:
-Understand stress, its sources and its effects.
-Learn to control negative thoughts, in order to manage
stress on demand, and to be able to assist others to cope with
it.
-Deal with everyday problems and life events more
effectively.
-Stop getting upset with others and with themselves.
-Become an elite performer and a model for their children,
and significant others.
-Enjoy more happy and pleasant moments.
WRITING STYLE
This is not the typical psychology book. Modern, enjoyable,
relaxing yet exciting, ‘tutti frutti!’ (to use an expression
suggested by the author). Forget the dark, obscure, and
complicated theories of 19th century psychology. One can
teach or write about the same things with or without humour.
Which approach is more likely to attract the attention of the
audience or the reader? You guessed it.
This is a reader friendly and easy to comprehend book. Yet, its
content is deadly serious… especially for the reader who takes
it lightly and continues to run his/her life under excessive
stress and negative emotions.
117

54. With passion and sincere interest for the reader, the writer
presents real life examples, practical exercises and
manoeuvres, and offers some of the most precious educational
lessons one might learn in their lives. The text is blended with
cartoons, hilarious stories including self-sarcasm and
anecdotes. Inside, the reader will find important tools for
problem-solving (e.g., the ‘Ro’ method), every day stress
management tips and exercises (e.g., the Stress-Visa, the
rubber bands for self-punishment), tips for dealing with anger
and angry people (e.g., the manoeuvres ‘a lá Bart Simpson’),
and the confrontation of the idiots (e.g., the Insults-cannon).
WHO SHOULD BUY THE BOOK?
…everyone. Those who want to reduce stress and learn to deal
successfully with any kind of problem (challenge). Those who
want to improve their lives in certain areas, following A.
Robin’s motto: ‘Constant and Never-ending Improvement.’ It
is hoped that the book will be read by the younger generation,
who can apply its ideas in order to live more healthy and
happy years than we did.
TELL A FRIEND!
So, what will you buy for a present to the loved ones, the
friends that you will visit? Cakes? Or a book? A book can be a
precious gift for the ones you love and wish to help improve
the quality of their lives, changing either the conditions
themselves or their attitude!
118

55. Prince to frog… and vice versa!
Subtitle Applied psychological
techniques to improve yourself –
or others.
Theme Psychology, Change,
Self-development
Sales rodafinos.weebly.com
ISBN 960-92105-0-3
DESCRIPTION
We are all born beautiful babies,
adorned by parents and friends, with potential to become real
princes. However, at some stage, around 30 - for some later,
for others even earlier- most of us, instead of “would-be
princes,” we become “frogs,” as a result of the bad habits (poor
nutrition, maladaptive thinking, bad companies, etc.) that we
adopt along the way… and so on. How can one revert to being
a prince once again? One solution is to wait for the kiss of the
princess. The other is to read Dr Rodafinos’ book.
The book is a manual for the accomplishment of changes in
our behaviour and our lives. Using a light and humoristic
approach, Dr Rodafinos presents applied cognitive and
behaviour modification techniques for those who want to quit
smoking, lose weight, change their thinking and reduce stress,
overcome a past relationship, change jobs, study more, stop
biting their nails, get up on time… Readers will learn about
basic psychological principles and theories, and then get their
hands on behavioural modification techniques. They will
119

56. examine their lives, let their imagination dream of desired
lives, design and evaluate courses of action to achieve these
goals, identify potential obstacles, and sign contracts of the
actions that they will take to achieve their goals.
-Would you like to stop smoking or drinking?
-Do you have a weight problem, would you like to improve
your diet?
-Do you find it difficult to adhere to your exercise/fitness
schedule?
-Do you wish to get over a past relationship?
-Do you bite your fingernails?
-Do you watch too much Electronic Income Reducer (TV)?
-Do you wish you could study more? Complete your
assignments on time?
-Are you constantly late to work, school, or appointments?
-Would you like to be able to get up on time?
If you answered yes to one or more of the above statements,
then you are facing the challenge of self-control. Most people
would like to change one or more things in their lives: Get a
better job, have less stress, more friends, etc. In fact, when
examining their lives, very few individuals have difficulty
finding an area they would like to improve. ‘It is very simple,
all it takes is a little self-control,’ someone may advise. Yet,
what is self-control and how can it be acquired?
The book describes specific techniques to change an unwanted
behaviour (e.g., smoking) or to increase the occurrence of a
desired behaviour (e.g., exercise). Based on the theories of
learning and cognitive-behavioural psychology, the author
120

57. describes goal setting and behaviour modification techniques
that have been applied effectively in educational settings,
fitness centres, business organizations, hospitals, mental health
institutions, and prisons. The book may serve as a manual for
individuals who want to change something in their lives or in
the lives of people around them.
If you are not happy with yourself or with the conditions in
your life, do not lose hope, because you can change – as long
as you follow certain steps. But if you do not change your
direction, you’re going to end up where you’re heading.
“If you keep on doing what you’ve been doing, you’re gonna
keep on getting what you’ve been getting” (Zig Ziglar).
THE BOOK IS ADDRESSED TO
those interested in behaviour and life changes (that is...
everyone without exception).
 General audience, independent of their professional or
academic level and education
 Parents who wish to find effective ways and ideas in order
to provide positive guidelines and inspire their children
 Educators, who, by profession, lead and inspire a great
number of individuals
 Employees in the private and public sector. Employers or
business managers who aim for changes in their
organization and the people around them
 Those who would like some degree of success, because
they have never felt any, and those who would like some
more of the success they are already enjoying.
121

58. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
PART I: Choices
1. Whose fault did you say it is?
The Past: Factors that have affected our lives
2. The effect of significant others
3. Responsibility and choices
Three interesting choices
PART II: A little theory
4. Theories of learning
5. I have a few habits
6. Why don’t people change?
Cognitive dissonance theory: applications
7. When do people change?
Stages of change
8. Our everyday mood depends on two factors …
9. Change your vocabulary - change your thoughts
10. Cognitive techniques: “You may be right, I may be crazy”
11. Change the way you think: Rational Emotive Therapy
12. Other cognitive techniques
13. Imagery and Mental training
14. Yes, but …
PART III: Steps to effective change
15. Goals and elite performance
Theory and research on goal setting
16. Self-awareness: Examine your life, discover your dreams
17. Step 1: Choose a goal
18. Step 2: Gather the basic facts; determine the antecedents of
the behaviour
19. Step 3: What could stop me, what do I need to learn, who
can help me. Potential obstacles, Necessary knowledge, “With
a little help from my friends”
20. Step 4: Designing and implementing the program
21. Desire and persistence
22. If you invest, invest on this …
122

59. 23. Changing in Action: Examples
Example A: To do’s
Example B: Lose weight
Example C: Increase your sales
Exercise: Decrease your expenses
Ten small changes
24. Epilogue: Can YOU do it?
References
123

60. About the author (self-praise…)
Angelo (Kaissidis-) Rodafinos began his
studies in the Athens Metchovion School
of Marine Engineering because… he was a
top student. Being a keen basketball player
who loved sports he changed major and,
despite several people’s expectations, went
on to study Physical Education and Sport
Sciences (Aristotle University of
Thessaloniki). He holds an MSc in Sports Psychology and
Teaching (Ithaca College, New York), and a PhD in
Psychology (University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia).
An academic for nearly 20 years, Angelo taught applied, social
and work psychology in various Universities, and has been the
Head of the Department of Psychology at City College,
International Faculty of the University of Sheffield, UK for
nearly a decade. He has published more than 40 articles in
academic journals, a manual for managing small-medium
enterprises, and a number of articles in popular magazines. His
first book Princes to frogs… and vice versa! Applied
psychological techniques for the accomplishment of changes in
our lives (in Greek) has become a popular reading guide for
people from all ages and backgrounds for more than a decade.
His second book The Idiots are invincible deals with stress and
problem solving.
Today he is Program Director for Social Sciences at
Swinburne Online Learning, Melbourne.
124

61. Guest lectures, seminars, training and
counselling
A professional speaker and consultant for organizations and
individuals, Dr Rodafinos presents numerous seminars and
workshops on topics related to change, stress and time
management, motivation, communication, persuasion and
negotiation, management, team building and cohesion, public
relations, success and happiness, exercise and nutrition, etc.
If you are interested in organizing a book show, a lecture or a
seminar for a high school, company, club, association, etc., to
view Dr Ro’s schedule, download free eBooks and
presentations, visit www.rodafinos.weebly.com
125

62. Media coverage
Dr Rodafinos has appeared on TV and radio stations including
Ant1 TV, BEST TV, Cosmos TV, Europe-1, ERA 3, TV 100,
Vergina TV, Alpha 103, Egnatia TV, Makedonia TV, Planet
radio, TRT Larisa, Hrima FM, Radio Global Australia etc.,
while his articles have been published in magazines such as
Prevention, Auto-Triti, Close-up, Super-fitness, Exodos-Club,
Super Fitness, Quality of life, FanZein etc.
126

63. Sample list of clients
Dr Rodafinos’ list of clients includes companies, educational
institutions, fitness and health centres etc. (See below)
127

64. 128

65. Kind words from seminar Participants
The worst part of the seminar was… the break! (Ν.
Anthopoulos).
I really believe business around the world need to hear a voice
of calm, positive and realistic opportunities during tough
economic times. I was most impressed with your positive and
enthusiastic presentation style (Bill Lewis, President Extension
Management Inc.).
Congratulations for the presentation you delivered in Sheraton
Sofia on Wednesday! It was exact, having in mind the
audience, with humor, positive and easy-to-get message
(Draga Paskova, Human Resources Manager at Interamerican,
part of Eureka Group).
Today I thanked God for giving me the courage to get up and
come to your seminar. I want to thank you as well for
reminding us of the simple but basic truths in life (Chris
Vovori, Psychologist).
I regret that you are not in Sydney, because if you were here,
maybe I could attend some of your lectures. They were one of
the most interesting during the whole ExecMBA program of
City College, Sheffield (Marietta Kostadinova, MBA).
A very good presentation. We wish there was more than 6-
hours! I was not tired at all. It was interesting with lots of
variety (Panos Rogaris, Managing Director, Hellenic
Telecommunication Insurance Co.).
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66. Contact details
Angelo (Kaissidis-) Rodafinos
Program Director Social Sciences
541 St. Kilda Rd.,
3004 Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 (0)3 8525 5688
E-mail: arodafinos (at) gmail.com
SKYPE: rodafinos
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