Great Idea Maybe I Should Check in with My Friends First or Not?

Have you ever noticed that when you need a reminder or a kick in the pants, it shows up? Literally, I was reminded to keep focussed on my goal and to not be distracted by shiny objects or distractors. What I mean by distractors is unsolicited advice. Colleen Francis, President and Founder of Engage Selling Solutions spoke at our Canadian Association of Professional Speakers - Edmonton Chapter meeting recently and shared excellent advice for all. I couldn't wait to write about what I learned.

Colleen Francis & Debra Kasowski

No matter what your goal or dream is, you need to continue to take steps toward it; even when you are unsure if everything will work out. How will you ever know if you never try? People will always have their own take on whatever it is your dream or goal may be. Remember it is their interpretation from their own experiences and not yours. Colleen stressed that advice should only be considered from "people you respect and who have been there." People who have been there can share their successes, mistakes, and their take aways with you so you can learn from them.  As for the others she said, "Don't listen, if you want to do it, DO IT!"

So you have a great idea...how many people do you have to check in with before you take steps toward it. Several people check in with family and friends only to be dismayed with their lack of understanding, support, or enthusiasm. Who it really should matter to, is you. Here are some of the steps that Colleen suggested when trying out new ideas:

1. IMPLEMENTATION Create your plan of action and implement it to the best of your ability. 
2. TEST Test your ideas and make adjustments where necessary.
3. EVALUATE RESULTS Did your ideas work? Maybe you need to make more adjustments by adding something or taking something away or perhaps you have to try something completely different.

I am sure you have tons of ideas waiting to be implemented but you may be hesitating to act on them for the fear of failing or being rejected. How do you know you will fail? Maybe your success comes when you think you know you will fail and you are WRONG! You could just hit the jackpot!

Now that would be something to celebrate, go out and try your ideas. Keep focussed on your end game.

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?