Achieve Goals Without Trying

I was walking briskly by the magazine rack at the gym and one of the headlines on a magazine caught my eye. The title read, "Lose weight without trying." I began to wonder how was that done. A magic pill, the cure all for cellulite. Perhaps, positive thinking will melt away the pounds of Christmas sweets and baking. I am afraid not. I did not open the magazine to read the article but it got me thinking. Can you achieve your goals without trying too?

Goal setting is an exercise of your mind. You must get clear on what it is you want so you can start moving toward achieving it. Keeping track of your goals in your mind is not very effective. You must write them down, hence the phrase, "Think it and ink it." By doing this, you make your goals more tangible and real. You also bring your goals to a greater awareness; they are not something you tuck in the back of your mind and only retrieve when the time feels right. If you want something bad enough, the time should be right now. If not, when?

Goals have parameters that need to be considered when writing them out. You need to be specific with what it is you wish to achieve. Maybe you do want to lose weight. If so, much? Once you are sure on what it is you want to achieve, what will demonstrate to you that you have achieved it? For weight loss, it could be the scale, how you feel in your clothes, or the measurements you read as you use a tape measure on different circumferences of your body.

"A goal is a dream with a deadline." - Napoleon Hill

You need to be able to measure your results. In what time frame do you wish to achieve your goal? Now with that being said, goal setting is specific to individuals. Your goal is set and completed by you, no one else can achieve your goal for you as it is your vision for vision for yourself. You have to be invested in yourself. Are the goals you have set achieveable and realistic for you and the time frame you set to accomplish ? Setting a goal to lose 20 pounds in one week is not realistic nor healthy for you. Do you see what I mean? How does someone achieve a goal without trying?

A person needs to take action steps to create a momentum toward achieving their goals. Goal setting is the "magic pill" of achievement. Consistent action and cultivation of healthy goal setting or habits will take a lot further than "without trying". As Dr. Phil would say, "How is that working for you?"

How Full Is Your Bucket List?

How Likeable Are You?

I have been listening to an audio book entitled “The Likeability Factor” by Tim Sanders. This is an excellent content rich book about what characteristics make people more likeable and how these qualities make them more successful. Sanders states that a person’s “L” factor or “likeability factor” has to do with four key concepts.

1. Friendliness. People make greater efforts to help people they like and who treat them with kindness and respect. Communicating positive feelings.

2. Reciprocation. When people are friendly, you want to reciprocate.

3. Relevance. How does another person connect to your life? Find out what another person’s passions are; this can include their hobbies or interests and remember to also share your passions with them. He recommends that we seek to understand how the person we have met has significance in in our own lives. When someone fulifills our needs they have satisfied a "sweet spot", therefore they become more relevant to us. We can also seek what significance we have to the other person in return.

4. Empathy. Ask about another person’s feelings or think about what you would feel like if you were in their situation. Form an emotional connection and show that you really care. By being empathetic versus simply sympathetic makes you become more likeable. He uses the movie “Groundhog Day” as an example of how a character who insults others can learn how to become empathetic and thus more likeable.

People who are likeable get better treatment and also get their needs met. Sanders elaborates on how the reader can become more likeable with fabulous tips and techniques. Great book for all areas of your life!

One exercise that I enjoyed was...

Think about the qualities that you most often get complemented on. These are some of the “likeability” qualities that people receive from you. Often the qualities you like in others are qualities you also possess. Insightful!

This is definitely a book you need to read or listen to more than once. Better yet add it to your library collection. There is so much great content to apply to your life right now.

Be Likeable from the Inside and Out!

Debra

Create Wildfire with Word of Mouth

Manage Your Fear By Increasing Your Knowledge

Risks vs. Rewards

Building on Lessons

Living Your Great Life

What Can You Do to Become Unstoppable and Expand Your Network?

Do you think you can change the way you relate to people or the way you do business in a way that could double your income? I do. Does it have to cost you oodles of money? No, but you need to make a commitment to making a plan. A plan that consists of steps in taking consistent action. Without consistent action, you will not see an increase in your prospects or profitability.

Here are 9 surefire ways for you to become unstoppable and expand your network, and increase your bottom line:

1. Build and nurture your relationships

2. Cross promote with other businesses

3. Send out cards of appreciation

4. Ask for referrals. Word of Mouth, the most powerful marketing tool.

5. Have a call to action on the back of your business card . Invite others to experience you with a free estimate, 15 minute coaching call, or access to resources on your website.

6. Put a raving testimonial in your email signature and on your blog.

7. Commit to continuous learning - read at least 15 minutes a day.

8. Offer and share value. Connect others with articles, magazines, special deals, or programs of interest to your customers or people in your network. It is fun to help others succeed and know that you were a part of something bigger.

9. Keep an abundance mindset. There is enough for everyone. Quit comparing yourself to others. You diminish your own value when you do so.

Become unstoppable and invaluable to your network of people. You will be the person others seek out to do business with. Give of yourself and be real. In working together with others, you will get much farther than traveling this journey alone.

What unstoppable tips do you have to share?

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Light Up A Room

Can You Believe It - Say It Isn't So!

Recently, I sent someone a random act of kindness and they told me that they wished to return it because they felt they did not need the gift. As our conversation continued, the gift appeared to be viewed as a form of "help or desperation" instead of seeing it as a nice gesture or a gift from the heart. I proceeded to explain that it was a gift and a gift is meant to be received. Yet, they struggled with being open to receive due to pride.

Did you know that you actually rob the gift giver of the pleasure of giving the gift? What I have noticed is... people often become uncomfortable with receiving gifts or asking for help. Yes, to be honest with you, my gift had many meanings, perhaps a form of help, but more so to be a pleasant unexpected gesture of kindness.

For many people, the act of receiving a gift, accepting a compliment, or asking for help is seen as a sign of weakness. I see it as a great strength. Here's a few tips for moving your pride to pleasure:

Gift Giving. Think about the time, thought, and effort a person puts into making, preparing, or purchasing a gift. It was important enough for them to give the gift or random act of kindness. Be gracious and grateful. I am not talking about an engagement ring but random acts of kindness and celebratory gifts that do not have a form of commitment or pay back. Sometimes a person's pride can get in the way of sharing in the joy.

Compliment Receiving. When some offers you a compliment, honour them by simply saying "Thank You". By saying, "It was no big deal.", you are downplaying the act of kindness. After a while, they will not want to compliment you because the joy of giving you the compliment, was zapped away.

Asking for a Hand. Asking for help can be the most powerful thing you can do to strengthen a relationship and improve your circumstance. People like to help people and people like to feel valued. Help needs not to be seen as a hand OUT but a hand UP. People like to see people succeed and know in their hearts that they were a part of something bigger - bigger life and a brighter future.

Be open to receive gifts of kindness, compliments and hands up. It gives the gift giver much joy and fulfillment to know that they had a chance to contribute to your life. You never know when you may need a gift to put a smile on your face. The best thing you can do is acknowledge the gift with a big "THANK YOU". Enjoy the gift.

Offer 3 random acts of kindness to honour the gift you received. It can be as simple as helping someone cross the street, paying for their meal at the drive thru window, or sending a thank you card. Do not let acts of kindness go unnoticed - pay it forward!

Let us know how you pay it forward!

Are You Ready to Get Your Head in the Game?

How Great Is Your Will?

“Do or do not... there is no try.” - Yoda

The road to successful living comes with many choices and the willingness to participate in your life. Being a bystander in your life, does not allow you to share your light and energy with others. Those who choose to be a victim in their lives get left behind, while others who actively participate enjoy the journey to success and happiness because they are in control of where they want to go. According to Brainy Quote, willingness is "the quality or state of being willing; free choice or consent of the will; freedom from reluctance; readiness of the mind to do or forbear." Other will related definitions are: do, being, choice, will, and freedom. Do you use these words when you speak? Do you have a choice and the will for freedom?

Here are 10 questions to ask yourself on your journey to success:

1. 
   
   Am I willing to give first and expect nothing in return?
2. 
   
   Am I willing to ask for what I want?
3. 
   
   Am I willing to set goals and plan ways to get what I want?
4. 
   
   Am I willing to give up complaining, making excuses, and blaming others for not getting what I want and take 100% responsibility for my actions?
5. 
   
   Am I willing to say "no" to an opportunity based on my priorities knowing that bigger and better opportunities may come my way?
6. 
   
   Am I willing to step out of my comfort zone to experience all life has to offer me?
7. 
   
   Am I willing to fail in order to learn and move forward?
8. 
   
   Am I willing to persevere when the going gets tough?
9. 
   
   Am I willing to embrace change?
10. 
    
    Am I willing to take action?

When you are willing to go after what you want with conviction, you will inevitably get where you want to go and achieve what you want to achieve. You must be willing to do what it takes. How badly do you want what you say you want? What are some other questions you ask yourself about your "willingness" to participate in this exciting world called life?

"Courage is simply the willingness to be afraid and act anyway. "

Robert Anthony

Fearless Living

Whose Responsibility is it Anyway?

People who play the victim game often point fingers at others as the responsible party for their current situation. I do not know how many times I have heard people say these phrases: "I never get a chance to...", "I am unhappy because they...", "I cannot have what I want", or even "I do not have a life." PLEASE - You do have a life and chances to make a difference in your own life and the lives of others. Remember this echoing phrase, "Life is what you make it." We all have the same amount of time in a day. All too often the people who say these comments blame others for not getting what they want. Sad thing is...nobody ever knew what they wanted. You are responsible for your chances, happiness, and the excitement in your life. YOU - you cannot blame others for what is in your control. The choice lies within you.


Your happiness depends on you. That's right. If you are searching outside of yourself for your happiness and saying to yourself, "I will be happy when.... I have the big house or an expensive car.", you are cheating yourself out of all you have and all you have accomplished to date. If you do not appreciate the present, when you have the things you yearned for, you will not appreciate them either as you will be yearning for something else.

Get Clear on What You Want. You can have what you want, however, many people do not get what they want because they are not always clear on what exactly it is they want or expect from themselves or others. I have seen spouses get upset about the other person fulfilling their needs or holding them back from going after what they want. The only problem is no one clearly expressed what it was they wanted; they made assumptions.

Set Your Priorities. You are the one who knows what is important to you. You need to choose and balance what you want to achieve. Let's say you are frustrated because you cannot go to the gym for one and a half hours so you do not bother going. Who is suffering? Who is responsible for your health? You are! Going to the gym or for a walk for 30 minutes is still better that you coming home to sit on the couch. Do something toward reaching your goal instead of nothing.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate. You need to let people know what it is you want to achieve. This works both personally and professionally. People want to help others achieve. It makes them feel good to know that they were a contributing factor to your success. If people do not know what you want, how can they help you?

Remember You Have Choices. If you need a babysitter so you can get to the gym, connect with a responsible teenager in your area. Check and see if your gym has babysitting available. Maybe you can even swap babysitting with another mother in your area so you both can benefit. There are options to help you achieve what you want. Many businesses are formed because of the need for options and lifestyle.

Ask for Help. If your options are not working out, do not give up. Ask others for help or referrals to people they know, like, and trust. Tap into the new opportunities and options available.

Compromise and Create Win-Win. There are times when you may have to compromise to get what you want by helping others get what they want. That's a great deal. Remember you can delegate to others to help you achieve what you want. You do not have to do it all.

Go and Get It. You have to develop a take action mindset.The responsibility for achieving what you want lies in you. Think about how badly you want something. Are you willing to go the distance and do what it takes to get there? If so, go and get it!

Might be a bit of tough love but...stop blaming, complaining, or making excuses about why you have not achieved what you want. The person responsible for your life is the person looking back at you in the mirror every morning and every night. That person is - YOU!

How do you take responsibilty for achieving what you want?

Leave Your Footprint in the Sand

When your leave a footprint, you leave a reminder, an imprint to others that you were there. People buy from and surround themselves with people they know, like, and trust. How can they get to know you if you do not leave your footprint in their mind or even their heart?

People want to get to know you, so BE REAL - BE YOURSELF. They want the full meal deal - not an imposter. They were attracted to your qualities and character. When you try to be someone you are not, you rob the world of the person you are. We often think that if I just had this car or if I have more money, they would think more of me. Sadly, this is often not the case. What matters most is how you feel about you - on the inside. You may have heard the saying "Confidence is Sexy!" Confidence attracts people to you; and, confidence is empowering. People want to be around people who are energetic and have enthusiasm for life. They want to expereince what you have to offer.

"Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else." ~Judy Garland

SHARE A PIECE OF YOURSELF. Let people sample who you are. Build relationships with others. Give the people you meet value - a referral, tip, technique, or an idea that might be benefit them. You will receive more than you may expect in return. Take time to teach others, as you have had many teachers that helped you get where you are today. List the ways you can help others and start doing some of them toda

"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." Buddha

FOLLOW-UP WITH THE PEOPLE YOU MEET. You do not want the winds of time to bring a tide to the shore to wash away your footprint. Follow-up with  the people you meet so you are on top of their mind and your footprint etched in the sand.

“Footprints on the sands of time are not made by sitting down.”   Proverb

TAKE ACTION...TAKE THE FIRST STEP IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Sweeten Things Up with a Spoonful of Sugar

During my family camping trip, I read "Embrace the Struggle -Living Life on Life's Terms" by Zig Ziglar and Julie Ziglar Norman, a gift my girlfriend gave me. In this book, you will learn struggles several people have endured during life's journey but also about the faith and dedication of Zig Ziglar and his family. You see, Mr. Ziglar fell down several stairs and suffered a brain injury. His love for his family, his Redhead, and his purpose did not waiver. When you embrace your struggle, there is always one thing you can count on - God.

Everyone has their own struggle, whether it is personal, emotional, spiritual, business-related, or financial, we all struggle at one time or another.


3 lessons I learned from this inspirational book are:

1. No matter what your struggle may be - you are never alone. Family, friends, and strangers unite in prayer and support of all kinds. People want to help people.
2. When you are living your purpose, what you truly love to do, there will always be a way for you to live that purpose, it may not be the way you envisioned it to be...it may be even better than you expected.
3. Learn to accept things you cannot change and be solution focused on the things that you can change.

Someone once said to me,"It is hard to stay positive all the time." I will not argue that for some people and even myself that there are times that are more difficult to endure than others, but I know for a fact, it is much more difficult to be surrounded with negativity. Negativity is energy draining. Optimism makes me feel alive. I will share my rose coloured glasses any day.

Embrace your struggle with faith and optimism (a spoonful of sugar). Make lemonade from the lemons that come your way. Be grateful for the people who lift you up. Life can be sweet again!

"Look forward to the harvest, and remember,

where there is struggle, there is life!" - Zig Ziglar

Share how you embrace your struggle.

The Three Gifts of Time

Time is precious commodity. We cannot borrow it because once it has been spent, it cannot be returned. The passing of time also represents the becoming of who you are now and who you have yet to become. The three gifts of time are your past, present, and future.

The lessons you learn, you may not see as gifts. We all have events or situations in our lives that are pivotal or have transformed our lives into who we are. These situations and events are also a matter of perspective. I have heard from a number of different people about their life's journey and resilience from situations like abuse, being a child of a workaholic, neglect, death of a parent or spouse, and many others. I'm not saying that anyone deserved to be a product of their situation. What I am saying is these situations make who you are.

As I take some time to reflect on these three gifts, I came up with several insights and treasures.

PAST

Your past represents the beginning of your journey. It cannot be changed for it lies behind you. When you hold onto your past, it prevents you from moving forward and enjoying the present and planning for the future. Your past is a memory and a learning. It is the person you were at the time.

PRESENT

The present is the time that you're living in the moment. It can often be difficult for people to enjoy the moment because of all of the distractions in the world around them. That is why it is important to savor the moments, the feelings, and the laughter for soon it will be the past.

FUTURE

Future is what we plan and hope for. It allows us to dream. Your dream can be what you want to be, do, or have. It is the time of who you have yet to become regardless of your past and what situation or where you came from.

Cherish and embrace your PAST. Live in the PRESENT.

Dream and Plan for your FUTURE.

Who do you wish to become?

Courage Come Out to Play

Life can hand us unexpected challenges. Sometimes, we can rise up to the challenge and sometimes it feels like the darkest hour has hit. If you know someone who has overcome their challenge, you know it takes courage to move forward. Courage despite what others think is best for you. The courage to do what you think is best for you and trust that you already know what you need to do. You already have it in you.

Listen to my friend Justin Hines as he encourages - Courage!



Share how you find courage!

Back Pedalling in Your Business and Life

"Life is like riding a bicycle - in order to keep your balance, you must keep moving." ~Albert Einstein

After not competing in a triathlon in 5 years, I did it. I signed up a week in half before the race for a mini triathlon without much training as the distances were do-able. (I do not recommend this for everyone.) I knew in my mind that I really needed to train for a Sprint Triathlon (750 m Swim, 20 km Bike, 5 km Run). Even with half the distance, I could hear my internal chatter battling back and forth having quite the conversation: “Are you crazy? You know you need to train. You have done this before, you can do it! For heaven sakes, it has been 5 years. You know what it takes.”

Have you realized that little voice speaks the loudest when you are challenging yourself? It does not matter if you are doing something for the first time or you are doing it for the twentieth time. The voice inside likes to put in its 2 cents. While I was racing, I realized that, yes I did do triathlons over 5 years ago and I still had the skills to do it again. Mind you, I needed definitely to sharpen those skills but nonetheless I already had them. You, too, have many skills you may not have used for months or years but you still own them. They are part of your blueprint. When there are challenges that come up in your life, you consciously or unconsciously retrieve those skills to apply to the situation that comes up.

As I was riding up the hill, I found myself thinking,”Wow, You did amazing job several years ago!” I think I appreciated it then but not as much as I do now. Climbing the hill became difficult and I quickly tried to find the right gear. When I found the right gear, I looked at the top of the hill and then focussed on 3-4 feet ahead of me. Every three to four feet, I got closer to the top. My positive self-talk was in the highest gear. My mind back pedalled to the past...Keep going you can do it! You never forget how to ride a bike! You can do it!


When I reached the top of the hill, I felt a surge of energy rush through me. I conquered it! I continued until I completed the race. If any of you have participated in an event or have been challenged by a situation that tests your mindset, you can appreciate what it takes to reach your end result.


ACKNOWLEDGE AND APPRECIATE – Acknowledge and appreciate where you are right now and realize that where you have been has made you who you are today. You are not defined by the past but many lessons where learned that you pull into your future. You have done some pretty incredible things that you may not have full acknowledged.


BREAK THE PATTERN – Break the pattern of the internal chatter and filter out the negative from the positive. Allow the positive to replay in your mind to make you strong. When you break the pattern, you can have better control of the thoughts you allow to enter your mind.


CONQUER THE TASK AT HAND – Conquer the task at hand by seeing your end result but also focussing on what is in front of you right now. Every task or project you work on, keeps you pedalling to your destination – your end result.


Your mind is  powerful. You can accomplish many things. Sharpen it as often as you can and you will pedal into greatness!


What skills have you sharpened to move forward?

Maximize Your Opportunities

Life Is Not A Dress Rehearsal!

The WOW Factor: 3 Ways to Make Them Say WOW!

To be WOWed or not to Be WOWed? is the question. When I was in Dallas at the eWomen Network conference, I had the pleasure of hearing Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos, Inc. speak about the WOW experience. WOW is all about "Delivering Happiness". He spoke about the family culture developed at Zappos. It was refreshing to hear about a place that encourages: employee engagement, embracing change, and open honest communication. You can find their core values http://about.zappos.com/our-unique-culture/zappos-core-values . Needless to say, I was very impressed and within 2 weeks I started to experience the WOW not by Zappos but by three different places. I should call Zappos just to feel the WOW effect. Better yet, let's start creating our own WOWs. I want to share these WOW experiences with you and why they impressed me so.

El Ranchitos Restaurant- Dallas, Texas

One of the nights in Dallas, some girlfriends and I went to El Ranchitos to have the authentic mexican restaurant experience. The food was fantastic and the atmosphere was great.  Live Maraichi tunes in the background. Our waiter had a great sense of humor, big smile, and even brought us a dessert on the house as we could not leave without tasting the Banana Flan. It was yummy! Jokingly when we asked him to call for a ride, he pulled out his own car keys. We had a blast!

Lesson #1: WOW does not have to cost anything to give. Engage, smile and have fun!

Coeur d'alene Resort - Coeur d'alene, Idaho

From playing on the beach to walking the boardwalk of the Coeur d'alene Resort, you will soak up the sun and hospitality in Coeur d'alene, Idaho. My WOW experience came when Jason, a Sous chef, at the Coeur d'alene Resort stopped by our family huddle in the lobby to see what we  were up to. My son and my girlfriend's daughter were trying to pull out some slivers on the bottom of their feet. Jason had security paged to bring the first aid kit. When security had not yet arrived, Jason had took it upon himself to go and get the tweezers and some bandages for our children's sliver feet. WOW! He was the sous chef. He did not have to do what he did but he did it with great style and excuse the pun - taste!

By the way, security arrived, the slivers came out, and the fun continued!

Lesson #2: Go above and beyond your call of duty!

Apple Store - Southgate Mall - Edmonton Alberta

My iPod touch was not functioning properly so I decided to take it to the Apple Store to have someone take a look at it. It could not be repaired and it was past warranty. Good news was - they could get me a replacement in 3-5 days. Within 6 hours, I had another iPod touch in my hands. Thanks to Justin, a very personable and open employee at the Southgate Apple Store. He was very professional and tried to find a solution to my issue. I had to give him a high 5! I explained to Justin that I had just finished reading "Delivering Happiness" by Tony Hsieh and that the book talked about creating the WOW experience. Justin stated that they look for WOW moments too. WOW was all I could say! Full circle and Kudos!

Lesson #3: Over Deliver What You Promise and You Will Be Remembered!

We need to come up with ways we can make people say WOW! Businesses who focus on customer service can benefit from delivering the WOW! Each of us can contribute to this movement and make the world a happier place to be! Let me know how you practice the WOW!

Tony Hsieh signed my book with these words to live by, "Live in the WOW!"

Spotlight Moment

I have been getting emails and requests for the video footage of the spotlight moment. The spotlight moment is because of amazing people like you! You energize me! Thank you! Special Thank You to eWomen Network for an incredible conference and life changing experience!

Faster Can Mean Slower

A friend of mine gave me Loral Langemeier's book, The Millionaire Maker's Guide to Creating a Cash Machine for Life, to read a year ago. It has sat on my beside table waiting to be read. Do you have some books like that?

Timing is Everything!

I had the opportunity to meet Loral in Dallas at the eWomen Network conference I attended. Meeting Loral  has motivated me to start reading her book. I could not put it down. She shares down to earth examples of how you can start thinking more like a business owner than an employee and what your revenue model is. Now I understand why this book was not yet read. It was because I was not ready to hear the message. Have you ever wished everything would happen right now? Well, it usually doesn't; it takes time. They say that when the student is ready the teacher will appear. This was exactly the case. There are many tips I could start instituting right away that will help grow your business and think outside the box. 

Whether you are contemplating starting a business, improving an existing one, or just getting started, this book with help you be aware of the due diligence you should be doing. The opportunities are there, you need to look at your strengths to create your cash machine. It is when you try to go too fast, you begin to fall.

I believe this quote to be true.

"If you have the endurance to persist, the conviction of your vision, and the commitment to your plan, you will eventually reach your goal." - Loral Langemeier

Mind Shifting Gears

I just returned from the eWomen Network Conference in Dallas, TX where I won the Spotlight on Stage for One Minute. Let me tell you this was an incredible experience. I will never be the same again.

There were many incredible speakers and business owners that I had the opportunity to meet. Each one was full spirit and intention to get the most out of their experience. I have several pages of notes with stars and notes saying "You need to do this". That way, I will not forget what ah-ha moments; I had during the presentation, perhaps you do the same.

The 10 highlights from a few of the speakers included:

1. Zig Ziglar - inspired us all. WOW!
2. Lisa Nichols - "The world is more interested in who you are becoming."
3. Marcia Wieder - "Dreaming without taking action is a fantasy."
4. Barbara Niven -"Trust that you know your stuff."
5. Lisa Johnson Mandell - NEVER say "We are thrilled to announce.." in a press release.
6. Tony Hsieh -Your happiness will not last if you sole purpose is profit.
7. Connie Podesta -"You will never have the least competition that you have today."
8. Mari Smith - "Biggest Financial Disaster - Do not measure your worth in dollars."
9. Peggy McColl - "Think like your customer."

10. Lisa Clemons - "Do not allow anyone or anything negative live rent free in your mind!"

These are few of the statements that stuck out in my mind from their talks. Powerful content...transforming content to apply. My mind has shifted gears and I want to connect and follow-up to be the change I want to see in the world. Many people go to conferences and seminars and do not follow up with their contacts. This should be a no "brainer". This is a prime opportunity for businesses to grow and discover joint venture opportunities.

With the opportunities and speeches, I realized once again that I need to be aiming higher. Higher than ever before in order to achieve bigger. I started view ing the world and thinking differently about the opportunities available. What are you doing to achieve bigger and shine? Are you taking actions and meeting your opportunities?

Make Your Website Rock!

Sharing: One of the Greatest Lessons Learned from Kindergarten

If you knew your friend needed your help to achieve one of their goals, wouldn't you want to help them out? Do you think they would do the same for you? Have you told them what you need?

We were taught to share with others. It important to share your goals with others. When others are aware of your goals, they are better able to support and encourage you and you are better able to support and encourage them as well. Find an accountability partner or friend to remind you why you chose your goals in the first place and what the end result will look and feel like when times get weak. It is during those times that you need to look fear in the face and remind yourself you can achieve so many things if you believe in yourself, your talents, and your abilities. People want to help people succeed. They share in the triumph and glory when you reach your goal.

Remember no one can support you or help you achieve what you want if you don't share!

Are You Accountable?

The Millionaire Woman Club is growing! I am glowing and raving about the incredible women I get to meet. Each one shares their light of knowledge and expertise. The energy is amazing! I could bask in it every day. I had asked the participants to develop an accountability relationship with their partners during a couple exercises that I facilitated.

Accountability = Commitment.

An accountability partner is someone you make a commitment to. A commitment to complete a task or exercise that will take you one step closer to your achieving your goal. This is why having an exercise buddy or partner is so crucial to many people's fitness goals. You have someone to challenge you to higher heights. Having an accountability partner, helps you stay true to your word. Why is it we break commitments to ourselves before we break a commitment to others? Is it because they depend on you or you are afraid that you will hurt their feelings? We must realize that not only should we make commitments to ourselvess but we must also keep them. Your commitment to yourself is most important. When you value your commitments, people also know that you will value theirs.

Accountability partners are people who:

• you share and review your goals with. help you keep your commitments
• you share and celebrate your wins with
• you set your intentions for the week with
• challenge you when you do not follow through
• keep you motivated to keep your commitments to yourself and others
• help you achieve maximum results
• brainstorm through roadblocks
• share advice
• encourage you when you feel that you are ready to give up!

Accountability partners are NOT people who:

• place judgment on you
• breach your confidence
• assess you

Accountability partners are ultimately there to hold you accountable for your own success! What are you doing to achieve your success?

Why Do You Need a Mentor?

ABCs of First Impressions

Have you ever been out and realized you had two different shoes on or your skirt was caught in your panty hose? First impressions are lasting impressions and the impact we have can last longer than we know.

As I was planning next month's Millionaire Woman Club event, Dress for Success theme, I started think about all the first impressions or judgments that women make. Yes, we say "Do not be judgmental." however,  we often get thoughts in our heads about what a person is like before we even speak to them.

The theory of knowing your ABC's can be followed in many contexts. For instance, in healthcare, ABC - airway, breathing and circulation. When assessing a child's wellness, we often look at ABC's being appearance, behavior, and color. The more I thought about this, the more I realized that  the ABCs of your first impression are the lifeline that gives breath or air to your personality and a person's perception. That's right ladies - Your first impression is the circulation and color of who you are!

The ABCs of First Impressions are:

Appearance/Apparel/Aura - Are you looking after your appearance? Do your clothes fit right? What does your dress say about you? These are a few of the questions to ask yourself. The most important question is - Would you want to do business with you?

Behaviour- This is the area that your personality shines through. Are you approachable? Do you introduce yourself to others or do you wait to be introduced? Can you start a conversation and learn more about the person you are talking to and truly listen?

Communication/Character- The words you speak are profound. How you speak to and about others says a great deal about your integrity. Smile, keep eye contact, and practice your handshake. A handshake is a tell tale sign of confidence.

First impressions last...know your ABCs and have impact!

Celebrate Your Wins

Find a reason to celebrate everyday!




How do you celebrate your wins?

Compound & Interest

In the last couple months, I have become addicted to SUCCESS Magazine. So much so, I started using a yellow highlighter for the main points that speak to me. This past month was full of resources and articles about Innovation.

Darren Hardy, SUCCESS Magazine Publisher and Editorial Director, wrote an article about his book "The Compound Effect". Every step you take no matter how big or small leads to success with smart choices. Individuals limit themselves when they think that they are not smart enough to accomplish their goals. If you think creatively to overcome obstacles and work harder and smarter, you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. Every step you take has value, whether, it was a lesson or a challenge. The question is, "Are you willing to take the challenge?"

It made me realize that in this world where people are searching for instant gratification that they can also get instant "deflation". Deflation of their spirit and motivation if they do not get immediate results. You have probably heard the phrase "Everyone needs to start somewhere." Yes, they do. Success also depends on sustainability. Are we there for instant gratification or long lasting satisfaction?

Key Qualities of Success:

1. Perseverance - The drive to keep going when the going gets tough. The tough look for solutions.
2. Consistency - Do something everyday that gets you one step closer to your big dream.
3. Never Give Up Attitude - This is where innovation comes to play. You continuously look for new ways to succeed. You realize that more opportunities will come your way even if one door closed.
4. Disciplined - Sometimes there will be sacrifices to make in order to reach your dream or goal. You need to keep current, research, and practice your craft or talent.
5. Serve Others -When you help others on their journey to success, others will help you. Success is inevitable.

Get creative when looking at the obstacles that appear on your life's journey. Refine your "qualities of success". Plant seeds of ideas that will reap a great harvest, when your efforts compound and get interest of those around you.
What are your qualities of success?

Method to Your Madness - Build a Fence

Summer is just around the corner. We are halfway through the year and school is almost out. The kids activities are at an all time peak and work is piling things up. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you know how to say, "No thank you!"

Boundaries are invisible fences that you set up for yourself. Setting boundaries in our businesses and personal lives can often be difficult when you are use to giving so much of yourself. You are not obligated to set boundaries but you must for your own personal sanity and health. There is always something that needs to get done. You must look after yourself in order to look after others. Some people say that setting boundaries seems like you are closing yourself off from others but this is further from the truth.

1.  Share Your Feelings. Let the other person you are setting boundaries with know how you feel. Start with "I feel..."
2. Voice Your Boundaries. When you set boundaries, you let people know what your limits are and what you can handle. When others are aware of the limits, they do not get disappointed with unrealistic expectations.
3. Respect the Boundaries. Gain a better understanding and respect for the boundaries set by others and they will be better able to respect your boundaries.

The walls of judgment fall down when a person is fully aware of the boundaries that they must set for themselves and the respect for the boundaries of others. You learn to teach others how to treat you with dignity and respect. You must also believe you should be treated in the same way. Do not try to do everything by yourself. Ask for help when needed. Delegate. Take a break. You will be more energized and ready to take on anything that comes your way.

Let us know how you set boundaries with others; post your comment.

A Matter of Perspective

"If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change."

Wayne Dyer

At The Millionaire Woman Club tonight, I was introduced to a board game that I had not played before. I enjoy playing board games because there is always a lesson to be learned. The lessons can come in many forms:

1. Strategy
2. Planning
3. Anticipation
4. Innovation
5. Taking Risks

and many more. Tonight's lesson was learned through the game of Abundance developed by Brandon Broadwater. Our guest speaker Carly Chan Nickel shared her story about perspective. Two stories - the same stories can be told in two different ways yet one made all the difference.  It really had me thinking about so many things.

Do you pay attention to what you say about others or how you describe them to others? What would happen if you viewed that person with a different set of glasses or viewpoint? How much better do you sound when you make people feel good about themselves and what they offer their family, friends, and community?

We have the capacity and power to change our perspective of situations. Remember the glass half empty and the glass half full analogy. What sounds better? Opportunity OR scarcity? Abundance OR Emptiness? You have the choice to choose the mindset that can create a world of abundance.

Share your views on abundant living.

Deaf Ears Fall on a Complainer

I remember asking my Dad how things were going one day and he said, "No sense in complaining. No one is going to listen to those who complain when they have the power to change what is not right."

How many of us like to listen to someone complaining? Do you find that they are taking responsibility for their own actions? Are they a solution to their issue or are they the ones causing their own grief?

One of my favorite reads is "The No Complaining Rule: Positive Ways to Deal with Negativity at Work" by Jon Gordon. Great story about the power of positive thinking and action. Complaints can become opportunities to explore and improve. Customer service complaints, for example, often speak to the quality of service and experience of the customer. Situations and events cannot improve without feedback. When you eliminate excuses and complaining, your surroundings are more enjoyable and productivity increases.


Listen to the words you say about yourself and others. Avoid getting involved with the complainers; they can pull you into that negative downward spiral of energy. If you change your words to more affirming words, you will create a positive environment around you. Focus on the good things going on in your life. You are healthy and alive. Are the things you complain about in your control? If not, let them go. You sabotage yourself by dwelling on the things you cannot change. My Dad was right!

You are Meant to Do Great Things!

"Are You Living Your Dream? Or Just Living Your Life?"
These are the words found the back cover of "The Dream Giver" by Bruce Wilkinson, a book I am in the midst of reading. The power behind those questions resonates in many of the people I encounter and work with everyday.

This inspirational story is about a boy named Ordinary who leaves the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. The message is powerful and compelling. A great read. We all have big dreams. What is yours? Are you living it right now? What has stopped you from pursuing your big dream?

You may have several reasons that you have not pursued your big dream. Take a moment to think about who you have in your life who would want you to have that dream? There are many people around you that want you to succeed and they will help support you in any way that they can. Let other people know what your big dream is. Remember your dream belongs to you and no one can take it away from you and only you were meant to fulfill it. Go after your BIG DREAM! It was made for you...because you were meant to do great things!

Share your dreams.

The Attitude of Gratitude

A gratitude journal is just one simple way to collect and note things in your life that you are grateful for. Write down 5 things each night before going to bed that you are grateful for. They can be as simple as the giggle of a child, a gentleman holding the door open for you, or a listening ear of a girlfriend. At the end of the day, they can result in big things. They help you appreciate the moment and look forward to the abundance of the future.



Affirmations of the Day:

I am grateful for the smiles that bring sunshine into my life.

I am enjoying the abundance the world is giving me.

Add your affirmations to this blog!

Live Your Life with Purpose and Passion

Do you spring out of bed in the morning to start your day or do you drag your feet to the kitchen for a cup of coffee? Living a life with purpose and passion makes you feel light on your feet, almost off the ground. You are enthusiastic about life's opportunities and yes, even the challenges. Anything worth having is worth all the challenges. You see, the challenges appear to test you. How badly do you want what you are after? When you love what you do every thing seems to come easier. Coffee is not required to jumpstart your day.

When trying to discover your purpose, look first to your strengths. What do people compliment you on? What are you good at? Do you inspire, teach, empower, or design? Your strengths are part of your purpose and you are here to give to others. Share your strengths. Inject passion into all that you do. Think about what brings you your greatest joy. Are you doing it everyday?

What are the ways that you bring passion to your purpose in life?

SUCCESS: Defining Moments

Each of us have moments in our lives where time stood still and we celebrated and cherished the moment. It was our moment. The moments we define as the milestones that lead us to our success. It is in these moments that we truly discover what we are capable of. You are so much more than what you tell yourself. If you only knew what you were capable of, would you work as hard to achieve it?

Follow this link to be inspired to your highest potential:

SUCCESS: Defining Moments

You are meant to do great things. Go out and do it!

Birds of a Feather

Unwrap Your Gift

Life is great until someone or something throws a monkey wrench into your plans. It is how we respond to situations that helps us deal with every situation that comes our way in the future. Change is a part of life yet many people find that change suffocates them. They feel that they lack of control and sometimes become upset, frustrated, or even angry.The reason they develop all these feelings is not because of change, but more so because they don't want to be told what to do or that they must change.

"People don't resist change. They resist being changed!"— Peter Senge

The funny thing is, we all fear change in one form or another. Some people may have the fear of moving, some people may have the fear taking a new class, or even have the fear of eating in a restaurant alone. Depending on how you view change, change can mean many things. I like to see change as a big present with many little boxes inside. You do not know what you are going to get but there are many possibilities and opportunities to unwrap. You might not always like what you get but you must be gracious and accept what has been given to you. Your gift now belongs to you and you may do what you wish with it. You have a choice. Use it wisely. Change allows growth and reflection of who you once were and who you have yet to become.

I recently finished reading the book "Who Moved My Cheese?" by Spencer Johnson.  I enjoyed it so much that I shared it with my kids. They loved analogy used to prepare for change. This book is a quick read, emphasizing many points about anticipating change, moving with change, and yes, enjoying change. Change is something you need to be ready for. You need to embrace it and enjoy the process.

The world continues to turn whether you are ready or not. If you are not ready, you run the risk of being left behind because of what is here today may not be here tomorrow. Treasure the gift of change.

Here are three easy ways to deal with change:

1. Choose Your Response- How you choose to view change with determine how you react to it. Your reaction affects your experience.
2. Focus on What You Can Control - Keep perspective on the things that you do have control of. When you focus on what you can do rather than what you can't do, you can persevere and succeed.
3. Keep a Positive Outlook - Look for the opportunities and lessons to be learned. The attitude you choose to have will determine your thoughts, feelings, and ultimately your behaviours or actions. Stay optimistic about the outcome you wish to have as the result of the change. Remember your gift can be bigger and better than you ever imagined.

Above all,

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." -Mahatma Gandhi.




I would love to know how you deal with change. Do you have a quote or story to tell us about change? Please share it!

Stretch into Your Skin

It always amazes me how fear can interfere with what we want to do. A friend of mine called me today and said, "Debra, I did it, but I was scared and uncomfortable." I asked her what she was afraid of and she said she was afraid the answer to her ask would be "No". Guess what? The answer would still be no if you never asked for what you wanted. What if the answer was "Yes!" We tend get uncomfortable doing things we are not use to. I like to think of the discomfort as stretching into the skin you were meant to be in. It is when we get too comfortable that we must continously strive to stretch ourselves out of that comfort zone.

Have you ever noticed that when you ask for what you want, you get excited and nervous at the same time?  The excitement and nervousness can be put to great use in your learning curve. Take that enthusiasm and savor the moment. What does it feel like to see yourself hearing the "Yes"? Music to your ears I bet!

You can choose to hang onto your fears and your doubts or you can summon up the courage to go after what you really want in life. Too often, we catch ourselves looking for the approval from others instead of from ourselves. Fear and doubt may even numb you from taking action. When people try to talk you out of your dreams, they do so because of their own fears and doubts. It does not necessarily mean they do not believe you will succeed. It is important for you to believe in your dreams and for you to continue to take steps toward reaching your goals even if they are small ones. You will never be able to realize the full impact of the small steps you take until you reach your big destination.

Lead a fearless life!

 

Do You Remember to Share?

From the time we were little, we were taught to share.Why do we not share our hopes and dreams with those closest to us? Are you afraid that they will laugh or talk you out of it? Focus on your vision. It belongs to you. If you believe you can achieve it, it does not matter what others say, you will do it. With the individuals I talk to, it could be further from the truth. When others are aware of your goals, they are better able to support and encourage you and you are better able to support and encourage them as well. They may recommend people that you need to connect with to reach your goals. Tell them what your needs are. Remember that each person knows at least 250 people and those 250 people know another 250 people. Share your dreams and widen your circle of influence.


Find an accountability partner or friend to remind you why you chose your goals in the first place and what the end result will look and feel like when times get weak. It is during those times that you need to look fear in the face and remind yourself you can achieve so many things if you believe in yourself, your talents, and your abilities.

Many people talk but few take action. What are you going to do?

Share your comments on how you build your circle of influence and how you share your goals with others.

Believe You Deserve It

One of the greatest things holding us back from living to our highest potential is that we question whether or not, we deserve what we desire.There is enough in the world for everyone to go after their dreams and goals. My vision for my life is not the same as yours. It belongs to you and no one else. The big question is, " Who can tell us that we do not deserve something?" You have a choice. You have the choice to ask for what you want with the intention that you will receive what you ask for.

"If you follow your bliss, doors will open for you that wouldn't have opened for anyone else." - Joseph Campbell.

Know What You Want. Clarity is the key. You must have a clear idea of what you are asking for and why. You will only receive what you want to the extent that you were clear. What does your end result look like? You are the one in control when you ask the question you wish to ask. How will the person you are asking benefit from your "ask"? Think about it. If you created an "ask" based on a win-win relationship, why would the answer be no?
Believe, it is possible and you deserve it. If you do not ask with confidence and conviction, the person you are asking may wonder how important it would be to answer your question. How bad do you want it? You may want to role-play with a colleague or practice in the mirror before you ask. You are meant to be, do , and have great things in your life. You need to BELIEVE IT!


Go out and ask for what you want!