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September 30, 2007
Success Is A Process by Jeffery Combs
We all have a desire to achieve some level of success. For some the desire is greater than the average person. Let's face it, everyone wants to be successful but very few are really willing to pay that price of W.E.I.T. (What Ever It Takes). I have assisted entrepreneurs through my seminars, workshops, and personal coaching programs for the past six years and I have found that there are a few key principles that assist people in achieving the levels of success that they deserve.
Success is an attitude. It is a posture that you take that states "I deserve to have it all." Success is attainable to all, yet so few achieve it. Success is a habit and has no real secrets. It all starts with your belief system. Your belief system starts with how you feel about yourself. Your own personal self-esteem is the key ingredient to so much of your success. You must first adopt a personal positive self-image of yourself. In networking your product is always going to be "YOU" and your second product is people. You are really marketing your confidence. This is why a positive self-image is so important, especially in your first conversation with your prospects. (You never get a second chance to make a first impression.) Forgiving yourself, other in your past, past mistakes & failures are paramount in your early journey to success. A key point to remember here is that you attract to your reality who and what you are. When you are positive and feel good about you, you attract like-minded individuals. The same holds true if you are negative in your thought processes. Your thought processes will always determine your bank account of love. It is essential that you learn to forgive, let go, and let go of your past. Many people drag their past into their present, which stops them from ever having a clear vision of their future.
Success is a process, not a payoff. You will pay your ten dollars at the door on your journey to success, and you will find out fast that there are no shortcuts. You will never be able to completely master every detail of your life. Attempting to do so will only lead to frustration. What will make the most difference is becoming the master of a few key principles that will allow you to have the fastest personal growth.
To accomplish this task you will begin to think exponentially rather than incrementally. (THINK BIG - ACT BIG) You must have uncommon thoughts to have uncommon results and a steady consistent plan of action. What I have found in over sixteen years of entrepreneurship is that very few people have a plan of action. "When you fail to plan, you are planning to fail." By "Plan of Action", what I am talking about is putting your goals down on paper where they are visible and you can get your hands on them to monitor your progress. You also have to have a very precise clear mental picture of where you are going on your journey to success. Make your goals reachable and realistic, yet big enough that you have to stretch to reach them. Along with goal setting, I recommend that you have a daily plan of action (Method of Operation) in place that you work from daily. If you are part-time, have down on paper exactly what you will do in the hours you commit to your enterprise. If you are full time do the same. Don’t over-promise to yourself. Put down on paper exactly what it is that you will do in the time you devote to your business. This will allow you to hold yourself accountable. Every night before you go to bed look over your daily method of operation and ask yourself how accountable you were to yourself today.
In working with over one thousand in the past six years as a personal coach, I have worked with people on developing a seven day game plan and then working it for four consecutive weeks (one FULL month). This teaches people how to become consistent. Consistent effort over a period of time coupled with personal growth will create consistent results. I also work with people on breaking networking down to what I call the "ridiculous". First of all, this is a numbers game and you will make up in numbers what you lack in skill. No matter what business or enterprises in networking you are in, the most important aspect will be collecting the results. By "breaking it down to the ridiculous", I am talking about taking enough action so that you sponsor or enroll 1 person or more a week if you are part-time, and two people or more a week if you are full-time.
This process of success will happen when you take consistent action, let go of your past, feel good about you and continually improve your internal communication.
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 29, 2007
The Seven Deadly Roadblocks to Success by Chris Widener
When traveling down the road it is always good to beware of roadblocks! You don't want to crash and burn do you? The same is true in our journey toward success. We need to beware of those things that will keep us from our destination!
What are the most common? Here they are:
1. Fear. Fear is one of the worst enemies of success. When fear wraps its tentacles around you and keeps you in bondage, you will never be able to reach for your dreams. We must confront our fears, see them for what they are, toss them to the side, and pursue our dreams with relentless passion. Conquering fear and stepping forward to reach new lands and new ideas is what makes success possible. What are you afraid of today? What fear must you conquer to be able to achieve your dream? When you realize what it is, take an action that is diametrically opposed to that which you fear. This will confront and conquer the fear by giving you the first step in the right direction.
2. Lethargy. Quite frankly, what keeps most people from success is that they simply don't have the energy, or make the energy, to do what it takes to move to the next level. They get to a point that is comfortable and then they settle in for a nice, life-long nap! Don't get lethargic; get going! Force yourself to wake up from the slumber and move!
3. Lack of perseverance. Often times the race is lost because the race is not finished. Success is often just around the sharpest corner or the steepest hill. Persevere. Keep going. One more hill. One more corner! In real estate they say the three most important things are "location, location, location." In success the three most important things are "perseverance, perseverance, perseverance."
4. Pessimism. The saying is that you can achieve what you believe. Ask yourself what kinds of beliefs you hold. Are you an optimist or a pessimist? If you don't believe that you can achieve than you won't. Your pessimism will prove yourself right every time. You will find that you subconsciously undermine yourself. Develop your optimism. Look for ways to believe that you can achieve success.
5. Not taking responsibility. I am the chaplain for the local police department. The other day I went with an officer as he took two prisoners to court. Time after time the prisoners made excuses as to why they hadn't yet done what the judge had ordered (she didn't buy it, by the way). After dropping the prisoners off, I said to the officer that unsuccessful people and prisoners have the same bad habit - they won't accept responsibility for their lives. You are responsible. When you accept that, you are on the road to success.
6. Picking the wrong people to hang out with. We can easily become products of our environment. This is why it is essential to hang around people who will spur you on not hold you back! What about the people you have surrounded yourself with? Are they quality people who will encourage you and strengthen you in your quest for success? If not, move on!
7. No vision. Those who succeed always see their success months and years before they live it. They have the ability to look ahead, see the future, imagine the good that can and will come from their lives, families and work. To not have vision is a tremendous roadblock. Sit down and work on seeing the future - and make it good!
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 28, 2007
The Two Choices We Face by Jim Rohn
Each of us has two distinct choices to make about what we will do with our lives. The first choice we can make is to be less than we have the capacity to be. To earn less. To have less. To read less and think less. To try less and discipline ourselves less. These are the choices that lead to an empty life. These are the choices that, once made, lead to a life of constant apprehension instead of a life of wondrous anticipation.
And the second choice? To do it all! To become all that we can possibly be. To read every book that we possibly can. To earn as much as we possibly can. To give and share as much as we possibly can. To strive and produce and accomplish as much as we possibly can. All of us have the choice.
To do or not to do. To be or not to be. To be all or to be less or to be nothing at all.
Like the tree, it would be a worthy challenge for us all to stretch upward and outward to the full measure of our capabilities. Why not do all that we can, every moment that we can, the best that we can, for as long as we can?
Our ultimate life objective should be to create as much as our talent and ability and desire will permit. To settle for doing less than we could do is to fail in this worthiest of undertakings.
Results are the best measurement of human progress. Not conversation. Not explanation. Not justification. Results! And if our results are less than our potential suggests that they should be, then we must strive to become more today than we were the day before. The greatest rewards are always reserved for those who bring great value to themselves and the world around them as a result of who and what they have become.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 27, 2007
11 Steps that Absolutely Guarantee You'll have the Body of Your Dreams in 90 Days or Less! by Christopher Guerriero
1. Persistence!
Violate this step and you'll never achieve permanent results. We recently concluded conducted a 10 year study which proves that persistence is the single most important aspect of any diet or exercise program. The study followed a group of people (group #1) who exercised and dieted very strictly, but sporadically and compared those results to a group of people (group #2) who exercised mildly and followed a very basic diet, but this group never varied from their routine. Even though group #2 exercised and dieted far less (but did so persistently) they got 68% better results than those who exercised and dieted VERY STRICTLY but only occasionally.
2. Workout around other people.
Working out with others will get you about 43% faster results!!!
3. Don't take bad advice.
Take ONLY the advice of those people who look strong & healthy themselves, and, whom you know to be knowledgeable about health & fitness!
4. ALWAYS keep an eye on your pulse.
When doing aerobic or cardiovascular training! Keeping your pulse inside your 80% target heart rate zone will burn up to 9 times more calories. Dropping below your target heart rate will not burn nearly as many fat calories, and going above your target heart rate may lead to muscle breakdown.
5. Surround yourself with winners.
One of the key qualities of all successful people is that they avoid negative people and they spend the majority of their time surrounded by those who have already achieved what they themselves seek to achieve. So if your goal is to weigh 135 pounds by eating healthy and living an energy full life - then seek out others who already live a healthy lifestyle and weigh 135 pounds. Hanging out with people who just talk about getting in shape but never take persistent action will ensure that you never reach your goal.
6. Know your outcome.
Have specific goals. Get a photo (or several) of what you WILL look like when you reach your goal, then focus only on that image. Quickly erase any negative beliefs or images that may enter into your mind during your day.
7. Increase you water intake.
Water is a key component to life. No living creature can survive without a fresh supply of pure water each and every day. If you do not consume enough fresh water every day, your body will age faster, appear fatter, be more susceptible to germs and colds, lose joint mobility, and much more. Generally speaking, most people who weigh under 150 pounds require no less than 8-10 glasses per day, those who weigh between 150-250 pounds require about 16 glasses per day.
8. Watch where your calories come from.
Without a doubt, we eat way too much sugar and fat. Moderation was the key in the past, now the key is moderation and the exclusion of junk food. One or two binges per year are generally OK if you are a normal healthy individual, but more is absolutely not OK.
9. Increase the number of meals consumed per day.
On average, you should be eating some form of protein and vegetable combination that's low in fat and high in fiber every 2 -3 hours of the day. Doing so will give you an almost unfair advantage over those who only eat the normal 3 meals (or less) each day.
10. Visualize Clearly and Often.
Design your new body in your mind first. You cannot achieve your idea of the perfect body if you don't have an idea of what the perfect body means to you. Take 10 minutes when you are sure not to be disturbed by people or phone calls, get comfortable, fully relax, then begin to dream about what you will look like when you have achieved your goal. Be specific, what will your calves look like, your legs, your butt, your lower back, your stomach, your chest, your upper back, your shoulders, your neck and your face. Then review this image as often throughout each day as possible (never less than 3x/day).
11. Cardio...Cardio...Cardio.
Cardiovascular exercising does more for the health and the appearance of the human body than any other form of exercise. Learn how much and what type of cardio is right for your particular body. Then refer to step #1 and do it persistently.
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 26, 2007
Don't Stop Asking So Many Questions Chris Widener
I take my son on a trip that we make together every year. This particular time we left the house at 6 am on a Monday and got home at 9 pm on a Thursday. That was just 87 hours. My son was ten-years old, and that translated to 84,293 questions!
I mean, 10-year old kids can be question machines! Virtual question-paloozas! On this trip, my son wanted to know why we got up so early, why we chose that airline, when we would get there, what things meant in the books we were reading, how they got the jelly filling in the donuts, and on…. and on…. and on…. For four days!! Even my friend who drove us to the airport told my wife later that he asked a lot of questions, even at 6 am! Anyway, you get the point.
I found myself repeatedly saying what thousands of you have said many times yourself, I'm sure:
Stop asking so many questions!
And then it hit me: This is why so many people lose their ability to achieve success. We tell them to stop asking so many questions. That's right, we methodically strip our children of their innate inquisitiveness. And then when they get older we wonder why they don't think for themselves! We told them to stop asking questions! They were born with a desire to understand the world around them and we, because of our frustration with the process, tell them to stop asking questions. What happens when you tell someone repeatedly to stop asking questions? They stop asking questions. It is a classic example of negative feedback and association. The chances are high that it happened to you to some degree.
But being inquisitive is inherent to long-term success. We must constantly be asking questions of others and ourselves. We must relentlessly be questioning processes that we use. We must always question whether or not products can be improved. Questioning is what produces new answers, which leads us to forge new ground.
Where does that leave us? Recommit yourself to asking lots of questions. Start by going through the basics: Who, what, when, where, why and how. Except, put "why" at the front of the list. Why? Because "why" gets behind the scenes even more so that the other questions do. "Why" deals with more than facts; it deals with motives and reasons. "Why" can be very enlightening.
After all, "Why" is about 80% of all of the questions that kids ask, and if anybody knows how to ask questions, it is kids. That is, if we let them.
So, as you live your life, let yourself ask lots of questions. Yes, people will wonder if you are a troublemaker, but you will know that you are pursuing enlightenment, knowledge, and the wisdom that will take you far beyond those who chose to live as others tell them life shall be lived!
Don't stop asking so many questions, and if you have kids at home, don't stop them either!
Chris Widener
Reprinted with permission from The Chris Widener Ezine
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September 25, 2007
How to Communicate After a Fight - Six Easy Steps to Recover Relationship Harmony! by John Gray
Wouldn't it be great if your love relationship could be a bed of roses all the time? Imagine being magically transported to a land of brilliant sunrises and sunsets where there were no misunderstandings or hurt feelings, no sideways glares, no slammed doors, and no arguing. As much as any couple may avoid fighting, the truth is, one minute you may feel great passion, and the next you're contemplating divorce!
Too many times we justify this shift in attitude by thinking that our partner's behavior needs an overhaul. Funny thing though, it's usually not about them! So what's next? How can couples open the communication again and put an argument behind them?
Read on as we take a look at the six steps to leaving a fight in the dust and getting back on the road to lasting romance.
1. Take the Edge Off - Get a Little Space
The best way to stop an argument is to nip it in the bud. Men, in particular, need to cool off and think things through. Women need to make sure that they are not bringing a 'cold-front' to the negotiating table. This is a good time to reflect on how you usually approach your partner. Take a step back and think about how much you love this person. Also, focus on your own needs and take some self-healing time.
2. Ease Into It After Some Downtime
Approach each other slowly and softly after some downtime. Wait until you can feel positively about your partner and the relationship, as it's impossible to work things out when negative emotions are still on the surface. If your anger, hurt or frustration is still overwhelming, take it as a sign that you are not ready to jump into solution making. It's too easy to blow things out of proportion unless you take a step back and ease in to the resolution slowly.
3. Nothing Too Serious
After some time has passed, come back and talk again, but in a loving and respectful way. Fueling the argument is not your goal. Take it easy, and keep the conversation light, because even though some time has passed, you still may not be able to be objective right away. Simple gestures like a smile, holding hands or getting your partner to laugh at something silly and unrelated to the situation can be good icebreakers.
4. Women Need to Talk
Women often need to completely talk the problem through before they are able to stand aside and put it behind them. Men can mistakenly feel blamed and attacked when a woman works through her problems by talking, so it's a good idea for her to reassure him. By letting him know how much he is supporting her by listening, she will free him from feeling unappreciated or attacked as she rehashes the details of the upset.
5. Men Need to Be Forgiven
After a big blow-up, men simply need to be told that they are forgiven. The four magic words to support a man in getting over hurt or angry feelings are, "it's not your fault." A man hates to feel criticized, or that his partner disapproves of him. When a woman forgives her partner for his mistakes, she not only frees him to love again but also gives herself permission to forgive her own imperfections.
6. Both Parties Need to Take Personal Responsibility
Couples can't point fingers after an argument and expect things to get better. Both men and women have to acknowledge their own shortcomings and take responsibility in order to move on and improve communication. Men have to let go of being righteous, demanding and overly sensitive, while women have an opportunity to apply new and improved relationship skills to assure him that he is appreciated and that she does not blame him for the fight.
Learning to communicate with each other through stormy times is essential to the success of a long-lasting relationship. While the best advice we have for couples is to avoid arguments, the stresses of ordinary life can get in the way of even the happiest Martian and Venusian collaboration. Again, forgiveness really is key for both sides. None of us will ever find a mate who is perfect all of the time; however, we can be the best for the one who is most perfect for us.
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 24, 2007
The Winner's Circle by Dr. Denis Waitley
Every four years we see those five, brilliant, interlocking Olympic rings on flags and in television and billboard advertising globally. The Olympic Games are where the best in the world go for the gold and the few stand, listening to their national anthem, in the coveted winner's circle. If the five Olympic rings were attitudes of champions in every profession, these five attitudes would be prominent in the mindset of the peak performer:
1. Paying the Price -- Everyone wants to win, but few are willing to invest the time and effort. Paying the price means focusing on developing the skills and training regimen of champions – observation, imitation, repetition and the internalization of knowledge into habits; also, learning why and how to go the extra mile and seeing success as a marathon, not a dash. Champions view failures as temporary inconveniences and learning experiences.
2. The Olympian Within -- Winners believe in their worth in advance of their performance. Most people base their worth on their current status or achievement level, which means that until they are judged successful by society's standards, they have little to be proud of. Champions believe in their dreams when they have only a dream to hang on to, even in the face of criticism and superior achievements by others.
3. Non-situational Integrity -- Authentic, lasting winners have an uncompromising attitude about self-honesty. They function according to an "integrity triangle", consisting of three basic questions: (a) Are my beliefs based upon truth? (b) Do my words and actions correspond with truth and honesty? (c) Before I speak or act, do I honestly consider the impact of my decision on other people and the environment?
4. The "Coachability" Factor -- Champions are always open to alternatives to improve their performance. Consistent winners are not the arrogant egotists who dominate the media spotlight. The most successful individuals in the game of life are often the most approachable, most gracious, non-judgmental with others and most critical of their own performances, as well as most eager to learn and improve.
5. Being a Team Player -- a team in harmony is synergy in motion, where the whole is greater than the sum of the individual talents. When all assignments are understood, when each takes 100 percent responsibility for the outcome, a quantum leap in performance takes place. Winners learn how to become interdependent, without sacrificing individuality; how to stand out, while fitting in.
Go for the "gold" in your life!
-- Denis Waitley
Reprinted with permission from The Denis Waitley Ezine
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September 23, 2007
You Can't Get the Sale 'til You Ask for It by Jeffrey Gitomer
Seems too simple. Just ask.
In most cases to get the sale -- at some point you must ask for it. "Yes, Jeffrey," you say, "but when do you ask? What's the perfect time to ask?"
How do I know? No one knows that except you. I can only tell you it's a delicate combination of the prospect's buying signals, and your gut feeling.
How and what to ask are easier to define than when. Since the "ask" is a critical part of the sale, you'd better be prepared with a number of options for the how and what part.
Important note: Here's what never to ask. "What will it take for me to get your business?" or "What will it take to earn your business?" That's an insult question. Great salespeople figure out what it takes, and then do it.
More important note: Many salespeople are "ask reluctant." If this is you, just realize the worst that can happen when you ask is that the prospect says "no" -- which to any good salesperson means "not yet!" Big deal.
How do you ask for the sale? Here are 7.5 ways...
1. Ask -- What's the risk? When you ask the prospect what risks are associated in doing business with you, real objections surface -- or -- (and here's the best part) there are usually none that come to mind. You say -- "Well, Mr. Johnson, when would you like to start not risking?" and the sale is yours.
2. Ask -- When is the next job? If you're making a sale where there are lots of opportunities (printer, supplies, temp help, construction, graphic design) you only need to get one job (order) to prove yourself.
3. Ask for an indirect commitment. -- Could you arrange your schedule to be there at delivery? How many people will need to be trained? When can we set up training? (This is the assumptive position, explained in depth in an earlier article.)
4. Ask -- What's preventing it? Is there anything preventing you from doing business with us? What's in the way? What are the obstacles?
5. If there's an obstacle or objection ask -- Is that the only reason? In other words, Mr. Johnson, if it wasn't for (objection) then we could...
6. Ask or communicate creatively -- Go to the 5¢ & 10¢ store (pretty much dates me doesn't it) and buy some plastic fence and a few plastic (rubber) people. Wire one person to the fence that most resembles (or would be non-offensive to) the prospect. Send it in a box to the prospect -- and include a flyer declaring it's "National Get Off the Fence Week." Tell the prospect he's been thinking about it long enough -- and what better time to get off the fence, and place an order than during this special celebration week? Tell him he'll be helping underprivileged salespeople all over the world by getting off the fence and placing an order. Create some laughter. Have some fun. Make some sales.
7. Create an offer so good that you can end by asking "fair enough?" "Mr. Johnson, I don't know if we can help you of not -- but if you bring your most important examples to lunch on Friday -- if I can help you, I'll tell you. And if I can't help you, I'll tell you that, too. Fair enough?" Here's another -- "Mr. Johnson, give me a trial order and let me earn your business. If it's not everything I claim and more, you don't have to pay for it. Fair enough? ("Fair enough" should always be accompanied by a "can't say no deal.")
And when all else fails:
7.5 Ask with humor -- "Mr. Johnson, I finally figured out what it will take to get your business -- all you have to do is say yes! The more adventurous salesperson will add -- "When would you like to do that?"
Most important note: Ask for the sale when the mood is right. The worst possible place is in the prospect's office. Best place is a business breakfast, lunch or dinner. Next best is your office. Next best is a trade show.
The rule of thumb is: ask early, and ask often. The best way to master the skill is -- practice in front of someone who can say "yes."
OK -- That's how and what to ask. When to ask is next week.
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 22, 2007
I Know That You Are Lying by Ron White
Ten years ago, someone attempted to drive a wedge between myself and a female friend. He confronted her and told her that I had said some negative things about her. She looked at him and while smiling said, 'I know you are lying.' He was shocked and inquired as to why she would say that. She said, 'I have never heard Ronnie speak negatively about anyone and because of that I know that he wouldn't do it about me either.'
Do you know what? She was right, I had said nothing negative about her.
Five years ago, I was in business with my cousin. An associate of ours wanted to get me out of the picture so he buddied up to my cousin and said, 'Your cousin has been saying some bad stuff about you.' My cousin didn't even look up from his work, but the first words out of his mouth were, 'You obviously don't know Ronnie or you would have never said that. He doesn't talk like that.'
Two scenarios, separated by five years, yet two people who knew me better than most confidently told my accusers that they had never heard me speak negatively about anyone and because of that knew they were lying.
Here is the life lesson:
In your office, organization or circle of friends if you want to see a cancer spread faster than almost anything... begin to speak negatively about others when they are not around. Not only will a cancer spread in your group that will fragment it into factions, but you will no longer be trustworthy. It made me feel good that my friends didn't say, 'I know you are lying because he is my friend or loyal to me.' I am glad they didn't say that because friendships change. Instead, they spoke to my character in my defense.
Do I always get it right in this area? Certainly not. Last year, a man had irritated me so bad that I often fantasized about planting my knuckles in the back of his skull via his nostrils. I was so irritated I began spewing my venom to a few who would listen. Finally, I realized the damage I was doing to my reputation and I confronted him.
Do you want to be a top notch sales professional? Attempt that without being trusted and try to be trusted while being known as a gossip.
Do you desire to be an effective leader? Again, attempt that without being trusted. A simple way to lose trust is gossip.
Develop a reputation as someone who can be trusted not because of your loyalty to your friends, but because of your character and watch as your business skyrockets!
-- Ron White
Reprinted with permission from The Ron White Ezine
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September 21, 2007
Walking a New Road by Jim Rohn
Here is a good question to ask yourself. Ten years from now you will surely arrive. The question is, where? We don't want to kid ourselves about where; we don't want to kid ourselves about the road we're walking.
At age 25, I had a day shortly after I met Mr. Shoaff called "do not kid myself anymore" day. I didn't want to be disillusioned anymore. Up until then, I had been using the crossed-finger theory. But after meeting Mr. Shoaff, I finally decided that the crossed-finger theory was not going to get me what I wanted. That it wasn't where the treasure lies. That I was going to have to make sure which way I was headed
Then, with the help of Mr. Shoaff, I found with a few reading disciplines, and a few disciplines of mind, and a few disciplines of activity, that when exercised, can begin making all the difference in the world as to where you will arrive.
Just a few changes. Sometimes we get the idea that we're doing about 10% and there's about 90% more that we need in order to make the difference for our fortune but probably the opposite is true. We're doing enough things to have bought and shared in the good life so far. And maybe all we need is that extra 5% or 10% of intellectual change. Activity change. A refinement of discipline. A refinement of thought. And all we need is the ideas to make those simple changes and the equity starts gathering in one year, three years, five years, ten years.
I have a good comment for you: Now's the time to fix the next 10 years. Now, you may have to come to grips with reality and with truth; that's what was good for me when I met Mr. Shoaff, I was 25 years old, he was 44 years old. And he brought me a wealth of experience and he started asking me the tough questions. "Big question", he said, "Are you reading the books that are going to take you where you want to go in the next 5 years?"
Excellent question. See, you want to make sure. I would assume for all of you, to get to where you want to be in the next 5 years, you are either reading the right books or you're not. You're either engaged in the disciplines or you're not. But, here's what we don't want to engage in: disillusion. Hoping without acting. Wishing without doing.
The key is to take a look and say, "Where am I? What could I do to make the changes to make sure that I can take more certain daily steps toward the treasure I want, the mental treasure, the personal treasure, the spiritual treasure, the financial treasure? I don't want to make any more errors, now's the time to adjust my daily program to take me where I want to go."
In lecturing the last 40+ years, I've gotten letters and personal testimonies of people that have done such remarkable things with just a few suggestions. And that is why seminars, tapes and books can be so valuable. Here's a key idea for us all to remember: We could all use a little coaching. When you're playing the game, it's sometimes hard to see it all.
But the key is to start right now making these changes to walk this new road. And here's what's exciting to me, just a few daily disciplines makes a great deal of difference in one year, three years, five years. And before you know it, you will be walking a brand new road.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 20, 2007
Humility is Tremendous by Charlie "Tremendous" Jones
I know no man who feels fully qualified to speak as an expert on "leadership". In fact, it seems that those who appear to be the most qualified are often the most reluctant. Knowing that I am a student of the word, rather than an authority, I think my attitude toward what I'm about to say can best be described in the story of file young minister preparing to give his first sermon. As he read and observed, he could see so clearly everyone's mistakes, and how simple it would be to set everyone straight. He couldn't wait for the big day when he would be able to lower the boom on the congregation. Finally, the big day came, and he rose for the great occasion. After a few minutes, he realized he was in trouble and began to sense that maybe he wasn't the hope of the world. After a few more minutes, he began to wish he'd never heard of preaching, and that there was a trap door behind the pulpit that would allow him to press a button and quickly slip out of sight. Of course, there wasn't and finally, after five minutes, which seemed to be hours, he said a hasty benediction. With his head hung, he left the pulpit, discouraged, broken and beaten. As he walked to the rear, an old, white haired war-horse slipped his arm over the boy's shoulder and said, "Son, IF YOU'D HAVE GONE UP, LIKE YOU CAME DOWN - YOU COULD HAVE COME DOWN LIKE YOU WENT UP." Humility is the quality that will enable you and others to enjoy your success.
Tremendously,
Charles "T" Jones
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 19, 2007
I Believe by Brian Tracy
I believe every person has within themselves inexhaustible reserves of potential they have never even come close to realizing.
I believe each person has far more intelligence than they have ever used.
I believe each person is more creative than he or she has ever imagined.
I believe the greatest achievements of your life lie ahead of you.
I believe the happiest moments of your life are yet to come.
I believe the greatest successes you will ever attain are still waiting for you on the road ahead.
And, I believe through learning and application of what you learn, you can solve any problem, overcome any obstacle and achieve any goal that you can set for yourself.
Brian Tracy
Reprinted with permission from The Jim Rohn Ezine
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September 18, 2007
Three Keys to Greatness by Jim Rohn
Several years ago I went into the studio and recorded a 56-minute video for teenagers called "Three Keys To Greatness." Although my focus was for teenagers, the principles I shared certainly apply to adults as well.
Recently I was asked to list these three things using one to two sentences for each. Now for your benefit here they are again.
1) Setting Goals. I call it the view of the future. Most people, including kids, will pay the price if they can see the promise of the future. So we need to help our kids see a well-defined future, so they will be motivated to pay the price today to attain the rewards of tomorrow. Goals help them do this.
2) Personal Development. Simply making consistent investments in our self-education and knowledge banks pays major dividends throughout our lives. I suggest having a minimum amount of time set aside for reading books, listening to audiocassettes, attending seminars, keeping a journal and spending time with other successful people. Charlie “Tremendous’ Jones says you will be in five years the sum total of the books you read and the people you are around.
3) Financial Planning. I call it the 70/30 plan. After receiving your paycheck or paying yourself, simply setting aside 10% for saving, 10% for investing and 10% for giving, and over time this will guarantee financial independence for a teenager.
If a young person, or for that matter an adult, focused on doing these three simple things over a long period of time I believe they will be assured success!
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
Reprinted with permission from The Jim Rohn Ezine
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September 17, 2007
It's Easy to Earn Money by Bob Proctor
There is a very real possibility that everything you and I have been taught about how to earn money is so far from the truth that it's almost comical. Earning money has nothing to do with age, formal education, gender or geography. It has nothing to do with past experience or your formal years of education or your level of intellect. Check it out… there are individuals who are functionally illiterate who have become multi-millionaires, while there are others who are absolutely brilliant and they are broke. Virtually anyone can be taught how to earn millions of dollars and yet the sad truth is that 97 out of every 100 people are born, live their entire lives, and die without ever learning how to earn money. To perpetuate this ridiculous problem, their ignorance is passed along from one generation to the next.
Our school system has been designed as an environment to enlighten young minds, to replace ignorance with understanding and thereby improve the quality of life. Our educational system has obviously been successful in many areas. However, it has woefully neglected one important subject, "How to Earn Money." You can earn a doctorate degree in economics and have little or no knowledge of how to earn money. A lack of understanding in this area is the cause of numerous unwanted and unnecessary problems, since money is the medium of exchange that is used worldwide for other people’s products and services.
There has always been a small, select group, approximately 3% of our population, who clearly understand that prosperity consciousness is the primary cause of wealth and their prosperity consciousness, like ignorance, is also passed down from one generation to the next.
Let's look at "money." What is it? Money is a reward you receive for the service you render. The more valuable the service, the greater the reward. Thinking of ways we can be of greater service will not only help us earn more money, it will also enable us to grow intellectually and spiritually.
Money Is An Idea:
The paper you fold and place in your purse or pocket is not money. It is paper with ink on it. It represents money, but it is not money. Money is an idea. The earning of money has nothing to do with the paper stuff. It has to do with consciousness.
I am aware there are books that instruct you on how to manipulate the market, stocks and people… they might even help you get money. But, let me caution you… when there is no spiritual growth… there is no spiritual strength… there is no lasting happiness… and, there is no real or lasting wealth.
To accumulate wealth, a person must become very comfortable with the idea of money. That may sound strange, however most people are not comfortable with the idea of money, which is why they do not have any. The cause of poverty is poverty consciousness. A poverty consciousness will cause a person to see, hear, smell, think and feel... lack and limitation.
The late Mike Todd said, "Being broke is a temporary situation. Being poor is a mental state."
He was correct. There are wealthy people who lose every cent they have through a series of mistakes in judgment… but that does not make them poor. They will have it all back in a short time because of their prosperity consciousness.
If you have any question in your mind regarding your level of consciousness with respect to money, be very honest with yourself and look at your results. Study the patterns in your life.
If you want to improve your financial position in life, focus your attention on creating a higher level of prosperity consciousness. Begin by preparing a powerful, positive affirmation and fuel it with emotion. When you do this, you are depositing this creative energy in the treasury of your sub-conscious mind. And, by repeating this process over and over and over again every day, it will begin to alter your conditioning and mentally move you in the direction you want to go. Write it out, read it, feel it, and let it take hold of your mind.
How much money do you want? Saying you want more is not good enough. Five dollars is more. How much more? Decide on a figure. Be specific. You will not seriously want more money than you are capable of earning... however, you would be wise to remember, you must earn it.
There Are Three Income Earning Strategies:
Trading time for money – By far the worst of the three income earning strategies, it is employed by approximately 96% of our population – doctors, lawyers, accountants, laborers, etc. There is an inherent problem with this strategy – saturation. You run out of time. If a person accumulates any degree of wealth employing this strategy, it will be at the expense of a life. They compromise on the car they drive, the house they live in, the clothes they choose and the vacations they take. They rarely, if ever, get what they want.
Investing money to earn money – This strategy is used by approximately 3% of the population. The number is small for the obvious reason – very few people have any money to invest. Many people who effectively employ this strategy follow the advice of a trusted, knowledgeable advisor.
Leveraging yourself to earn money – This is where you multiply your time through the efforts of others by setting up Multiple Sources of Income (MSI). This is, without question, the very best way to increase your income. Make a decision to have many sources of income; it's the strategy that wealthy people have used dating clear back to the ancient Babylonians. Unfortunately, this strategy is only used by approximately 1% of our population, yet that 1% earns approximately 96% of all the money that is earned! You are only a decision away from membership.
Once you determine how much money you want to earn, write it down on a sheet of paper in large figures. Look at the number with the dollar sign beside it and tell yourself over and over again:
That Amount of Money is an Effect:
It Represents a Reward that I Want to Receive.
What Service Can I Render that Would be Deserving of that Reward?
You can take the total figure and divide it into multiple parts. Each part would represent a source of income. Each source of income represents a separate reward that you would receive for a service you would render.
Work on one source of income at a time; each one can become an exciting part of your life. What you are actually doing is thinking of different ways you can be of service to others.
Think of how you can do whatever you do – more effectively.
Think of how you can improve the quality and quantity of service you render.
Think of how you can help people in a greater way.
Money is the ultimate servant. The more you earn, the more you can help others.
Bob Proctor
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievemment Ezine
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September 16, 2007
Zig Ziglar On Simple Communications
When I entered the sales world, one of the first things my manager taught me was to keep my presentation so clear and uncluttered that a child could understand what I was saying. This advice has had a lasting impact on my life. I frequently remind my audiences that I speak and write at the 7th grade, 9th month level. I do this because I've discovered that at that level virtually everyone can clearly understand the message--even college professors! I include college professors because they're real people, and they, too, deserve to understand.
As my friend, Dr. Steve Franklin, a college professor from Emory University who taught me this, said, "The great truths in life are the simple ones. You do not need three moving parts and four syllables for it to be significant." He then pointed out that "there are only three pure colors--but look what Michelangelo did with them. There are only seven notes, but look at what Chopin, Beethoven and Vivaldi did with them. For that matter, look at what Elvis did with two!"
Most of us prefer things we can understand. Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is short and clear with nearly 80 percent of the words only one syllable. "God is love"--three words, all of them one syllable.
Seriously, now, when you ask someone what they had for breakfast, would you really appreciate it if they responded that they had the "upper part of a hog's hind leg, with two oval bodies encased in a shell laid by a female bird?" Or would you prefer to have the person answer, "We had ham and eggs for breakfast"?
And remember, language changes. At one time we referred to a person who spread rumors around the office as a "gossip." Now that person is called an "information specialist."
Personally, I prefer simple, clear, direct communications. I'm convinced that most people do. Keep your communications "simple," and I'll SEE YOU AT THE TOP!
Zig Ziglar
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievemment Ezine
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September 15, 2007
Gradual Adaptation by Ron White
The older I get the more I notice that my metabolism seems to be moving slower than most glaciers. I was watching a turtle the other day make its way across the grass and I could have sworn that I heard my metabolism say,' Hey turtle, slow down…what is your hurry?'
It has become a monumental struggle to maintain the weight that I prefer to be at. Other than eating the right foods, I have become a runner. That is right – a runner. It is the last thing I thought you would ever hear me say. A few years ago, it would have been more likely that I join a Polish circus as a fire juggler. Yet, here I am a runner.
A concept that running has taught me is the one of 'gradual adaptation'. When I started running 1 and a half miles seemed unfathomable. As I lumbered around the track that first jog it felt as if my eyes were rolling back in my head. I could feel my lunch making its way to resurface and my lungs gasped to grab all the oxygen in my time zone.
Now, today as I glide past the 1.5 mile mark I haven't even gotten warmed up. What made the change? Gradual adaptation.
A fellow runner suggested that I run for twenty minutes at a slow pace. He convinced me that it was the duration and not the intensity that was important. I soon reported back to him that I was able to run twenty minutes with great ease at 6.3 mph. 'Super!' he replied. 'Next time you run – run for 25 minutes' was his continued suggestion.
In my mind, he might as well told me to sprout wings and fly. Yet, I nodded my head and told him I would give it a try. To my amazement the extra five minutes came easy. Within a few weeks, I was running 30 minutes, then 35, then 40, then 45 and then 60 consecutive minutes!
If I had started at 60 minutes, I would have most likely been wheeled to the hospital afterwards and never ran again. Instead, I chose the option of gradual adaptation.
Whether your goal is running, building a business or learning a new skill the concept of gradual adaptation is one that you must implement to be successful.
Don't attempt to change the world in a day. Brian Buffini says that most people over estimate what they can accomplish in a year (this is because they don't practice gradual adaptation) and underestimate what they can accomplish in a decade.
How to implement gradual adaptation:
- Decide what your ultimate goal is
- Understand this will also be a lesson in patience and do not rush the end result
- Establish stages or levels of the larger goal
- Focus on the next stage, not the end result.
- Remind yourself of the end result to maintain excitement and passion while still focusing on the next stage
- Measure your progress with a chart
Realize that your results in any endeavor will be slow at first but as you gain momentum the results expand geometrically. This is why most overestimate their accomplishments for a year and under-estimate the possible accomplishments of a decade.
This six step process will work if you are building a business, a workout routine or learning a new skill. Remember that no one ever ran a marathon the first time out of the blocks and neither will you.
Practice gradual adaptation.
-- Ron White
Reprinted with permission from The Ron White Ezine
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September 14, 2007
Look up to Those Beneath You by Dr. Denis Waitley
The most successful business leaders today are like great coaches who manage by inspiration, instead of intimidation. The command and control, management style is obsolete. In this fast forward global marketplace, there is no such distinction as superior and subordinate. The key to getting and staying on top is to provide a resilient, positive working environment. This requires that you "check your ego at the door" and that you seek alliances with others who may have different talents or strengths than you do. This is what synergy is all about.
David Ogilvy, founder of giant advertising agency, Ogilvy and Mather, used to give each new manager a Russian doll, which contained five progressively smaller dolls inside. A message inside the smallest one read: "If each of us hires people we consider smaller than ourselves, we shall become a company of dwarves. But if each of us hires people who are bigger than we are, we will become a company of giants."
To become a giant in the eyes of others, and to succeed in the 21st century, look up to those beneath you! Consider these action ideas as you lead your team:
1. Listen often and openly to what others say, and try to do so without prejudgment.
2. Don't put anyone off or be too busy to listen to and answer questions.
3. Use praise frequently and sincerely.
4. If you feel that criticism is warranted, do it in private, and make sure you say something encouraging after the reprimand.
5. Be firm and be fair. Don't meet with people in person or on the phone when you are angry. Exercise or take a walk first, then communicate when you are relaxed.
6. Don't be afraid or hesitant to share your concerns with others. Far better to discuss a molehill, then to wait until it festers into Mt. Everest.
7. Don't make rash promises and be consistent.
8. Whenever you are in a leadership role, focus your supervision on teaching effective habits and skills, not in pointing out mistakes.
Encourage everyone in both your personal and professional life to speak up and express their own ideas, even if you disagree with them.
-- Denis Waitley
Reprinted with permission from The Denis Waitley Ezine
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September 13, 2007
More Heart than Talent by Jeffery Combs
Why Heart Beats Talent Every Time
It is my belief that talent is one of the most overrated attributes when evaluating what is required to be successful. Although talent is very important when it comes to performing, it often times has little to do with how success is achieved and who becomes successful. The world is filled with talented people, yet why is it that so few people live and achieve their dreams?
What does it truly mean to have heart? Heart is the intangible; the invisible ingredient that is difficult to explain and measure to the average person. Heart is the magic, the juice, the stuff, fifth gear, the overdrive that great achievers in life tap into when challenges and obstacles appear. Heart is making a conscious choice to live an exceptional life rather than an average one. Average people (about 97% of society) let events shape their lives, while exceptional people are able to change their perceptions of challenging events and overcome them.
Heart has little to do with size, weight, color, creed, education, intelligence, I.Q., bloodline, where you grew up, or most of all, talent. Virtually everyone has raw, untapped talent. The problem is that most people never get out of their talent. Instead, they hide behind it, too afraid to take risks, to be vulnerable, and most of all, to risk not being perfect. Fear and procrastination (unwarranted perfection) becomes the opponent. Taking the risks to get out of your talent is where having heart begins.
Learning to live in the moment, the present, is also where heart begins. This means making your move before you are ready, challenging yourself and the beliefs that limit you, standing tall in the face of adversity, and taking on life's challenges without having to prove that you are good enough. Having heart means you possess a quality called courage, which there is always a market for and never goes out of fashion. Exceptional people tap into their courage when faced with adversity and step immediately into the solution, even when the solution takes them into unfamiliar territory. Average people typically choose to remain in the problem simply because it is familiar and they fear being vulnerable when facing the possibility of not performing perfectly in the solution.
When stepping out of what is perceived to be comfortable, it is often uncomfortable in the beginning. These early tests are where you really get to learn and grow from adversity and to gain insights and wisdom to the causes and effects that stop "want to be success seekers". When we are being tested is typically when we are about to learn our greatest lesson.
Heart can be looked at medically through microscopes and surgery, but cannot be measured by typical eyesight. Heart is about feelings and emotions rather than thinking and contemplating. This means being outside of yourself, your head, your ego, and being inside your heart and loving the process, the evolution of change. Having heart means being able to take any ball in life and saying, "Follow me! I don't know how we are going to get there, but we are. Just give me the ball." Heart is what separates the average from the exceptional.
Heart is what separates the average from the exceptional and I have learned in life that heart beats talent every time. Show me a man or woman with heart and I'll show you a way to overcome someone else's talent. We all have talent, talent on loan from God, more talent than humanly possible. That guy or that woman has so much talent it's unbelievable. Look how much talent he or she has. They are loaded with talent. These are all statements that refer to how much potential a man or a woman may have. We all have this; it's God-given. Unfortunately, not many people really get outside their talent, instead they hide behind it and they stay in it. They stay in their ego; afraid to reach their human potential; afraid to risk and be vulnerable; afraid to become the person they really deserve to be.
Now, "deserve" is a very interesting word and it is a word that keeps many people from becoming who they really could be. What the word deserve references in Latin is "de servire" which means day of service. When you have self-esteem issues or don't feel good enough, you send a telepathic mixed message in a business situation or in life that says things such as, "Please join me, but don't follow me because I can't lead you." Or "Please reject me, because I'm not lovable." Or "Don't go out on a date with me because I wouldn't want to be on a date with me either." Or "Please send me money, but don't send me money because I'm not comfortable with it. I have an emotional resistance and I want to keep it away because I don't deserve it. I was born on the wrong side of the tracks."
This is how many people stay in their talent, afraid to take a risk. Any kind of success is going to involve risks and average people resist taking risks because they believe that they have to stay comfortable. The average person's comfort zone is really a miserable zone and you have to get uncomfortable, you have to get out of the box, you have to be moving into the present to become the person you deserve to be. This is where you’re going to have to take some risks. This doesn't mean you jump off the Brooklyn Bridge on a dare, but start to take a bigger calculated risk than you've typically been comfortable with. This is when you really begin to stretch and grow and become the person that you really are. Risk is really a perception. And sometimes the biggest risk is not taking one.
Changing isn't nearly as difficult as you perceive. You already are a brilliant person, you're a masterpiece in progress, and you have the ability to design your life rather than make a living. The people who stay in their talent stay in their safety zone. They're not excelling; they're being stuck, procrastinating, using money as an excuse, and using perfection as an excuse. When your excuse becomes believable to you and you become the excuse, constant reminders of how talented you are don't help much.
Stepping Outside Your Talent
Now, let's take a look at what it's like to get out of your talent and some of the feelings that we have when we truly take this step. Being outside of your talent is the hands-free zone; it's a state of flow; it's a relaxed state of consciousness; it's playing like a child.
People ask me all the time, "How do I get into flow?" A better question is, "Why do you ever get out of it once you’re in it?" I ask people to smile and laugh. When you see anyone who is laughing, they are in a state of flow. They don't have to try to be in flow.
The average person spends too much time trying to achieve, rather than just being. If you're being, you're in the moment, you're in the now and that's where you can really tap into your heart consciousness. This is the highest level of consciousness where you really attract the people, situations and opportunities that you are seeking. When you are outside of your talent, you are who you really are. You're riding a bicycle with no hands. Success becomes you and it comes to you rather than you chasing it.
Being out of your talent is when you are present; then you unleash your full potential. You begin to transmit, telepathically, your thought waves through the universe from a position of peace. It means you love who you are so you can love what you’re becoming and doing. What you do becomes a game rather than a job. You develop touch, finesse, you glide, people want to touch you, be with you, become you, you become what is called a people magnet. You vibrate from a level that says, "I'm very comfortable with who I am and who I'm becoming." You vibrate from a position that says, "I am the leader you are looking for."
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 12, 2007
So What's to Gain from Getting Ink? by Dianna Booher
Now that the majority of white-collar professionals have college degrees, what do you do to distinguish yourself from your peers? To gain the next promotion? To promote your product, service, or professional practice? Publish books and trade journal articles. Publishing has become the new pastime for those who are already there and those who are still building a career. Prestige, money, new business, recognition—all are valuable and reasonable to expect as a result of publishing your idea, process, procedure, or data.
The Rich and Famous. The likes of Donald Trump, Bill Gates, Michael Eisner, Jack Welch, Queen Noor, and Harvey Mackay have turned publishing into power. Publishing has added pizzazz to their already prestigious careers.
The Average Joe or Josephine:
Each month five to ten callers to my office express their publishing plans this way:
I'm a lawyer, and our firm is working on a really interesting case. We're thinking of doing a book on it. Can you tell me how to go about it?
I have a manuscript about real estate equities that I've just finished. As a stockbroker, I don't know much about publishing. Do I just take it to a publisher or a printer, or what?
My boss is really after me to get a book published on this new anticorrosion process our company will be marketing next year. It was originally a technical paper, but I guess I'll have to change the approach a little bit for the general reader, don't you think?
I'm a gynecologist who's developed a new technique for laser surgery, and the hospital wants to get some PR out of it. I've got 20 pages done. Can you help me turn it into a book?
I've got a small catering business and I want to do a cookbook. It'll be a giveaway to corporate customers. And we may use it as fund-raiser, if we can get some corporate sponsors.
The Competitive Corporations. The mention of a company's name and product or service is now worth measurable dollars—dollars these companies are willing to pay their employees in bonuses or professional PR people for their publishing efforts.
Whichever category you fall into—the rich and famous, the average Joe or Josephine, or the competitive corporations, the timing for getting your ideas into book form couldn't be better. That third-party endorsement from a major publisher says to the world that "somebody out there," some objective editorial board, thinks what you have to say is worthwhile and that people would pay money to hear/read it.
Nothing enhances your credibility or brings recognition—from colleagues, from your own management, from customers and clients—like publishing a book on your subject of expertise. In fact, this principle has even worked its way into our language. To establish someone's credibility, we say, "He wrote the book."
Not only could you receive nice royalty checks from book sales, you often find that subrights sales fatten the pot: software, video, and audio rights; fees for excerpts reprints; premium sales; internet licensing fees, sales of spin-off products such as T-shirts, buttons, posters, calendars, and other paraphernalia; and fees for consulting and speaking engagements.
Like Suze Orman, Brian Tracy, John Gray, Ken Blanchard, Tony Robbins, Ann Coulter, Stephen Covey, and Phil McGraw, you, too, may find that the recognition and credibility gained through publishing translates into political, social, or financial power.
Dianna Booher
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 11, 2007
Bring on the Boosters! By Chris Widener
Nobody becomes a success alone, period. There is no such person who is "self made." I know this because I have regularly involved myself with some of America's most successful people and as I listen to their stories I realize that all of them have had what I call their own "booster club."
When I think back over my life I realize that I have had my own booster club: People who gave me a boost, either through direct help, opening doors to others or opportunities, or through their belief in or encouragement of me.
I think of my mother who was left a widow at age 40 to raise me alone. She believed in me. She sacrificed for me. She gave up much so that I could become what I dreamed of. My mother was my booster!
I think of a man who is the CEO of a twenty five billion dollar a year company who, when I was only three years out of college and striking out on my own, sent me a check out of the blue. It wasn't an investment; it was a gift. Then he sent another... and another. Every month for nearly 7 years he sent me a check. Nothing large enough to live on but enough to be a sign that he believed in me. When I asked him why he did it, he said, "Because I believe in what you are doing and that you are the one to do it." To have someone of his stature believe in you! Wow - is he ever a booster!
I think of my good friends, Tony and Jenni. When they were married they moved in right next door to us. They have become our best friends. Every step of the way they have loved us, challenged us, and encouraged us. They have been there in the darkest hours and in the brightest days. They are definitely boosters!
I think of my two friends named Kevin. The first, my best friend, lives here in Seattle. He is a guy that I laugh with, talk about things with and thoroughly enjoy all of my time with. He always comes through for me. In fact, as I write this, he came through for me just yesterday! When I know that I need a boost, he does whatever he can. And being one of the most competent men I have ever met, he always gets the job done. Major booster!
The second Kevin lives in Atlanta. He is a "new" friend but has already been a big booster. He has been willing to open doors for me that I never would have been able to budge because those on the other side would have been unwilling to open them. But on his recommendation, they have. A great booster and a person I will get to know better throughout the years.
I think of Kyle, he has boosted me literally millions of times - every time he publishes my articles and brings me out to speak at an event he helps me bring my message to the masses. To know that a person like Kyle sees the value in my message is an incredible boost!
I think of my most fanatical booster, my wife Lisa. No one believes in me more than she does. In fact, there are many times I wonder who she thinks she's married to! She sees the best in me even when there is nothing good to see. She sticks by me through it all and encourages me to go for my dreams. What a blessing - what a booster!
I think of my kids. They boost me every time I leave in the morning and when I come through the door at night. They boost my life and my career! Above all, they boost my happiness and my spirits each and every day. Big boosters in little bodies!
I think of God - the ultimate booster. In a scene from The Count of Monte Cristo, the Count, still in prison, tells the old man prisoner who is with him, "I don't believe in God." The old man replies, "That's okay. God believes in you!" While I don't understand all that God is I do believe that if God is for me, then it matters not who or what is against me!
So where does this leave us? Is this just a trip down memory lane? No, in fact, I have two specific actions for you as it relates to boosters:
One, make a list of your boosters. Then take a moment to send them a note to say thanks for what they have done and been for you!
Second, decide for yourself that you will be someone else's booster! Be very specific and begin to invest yourself into that person's life. Encourage them. Open doors for them. Challenge them. Give of yourself to them so that they can soar. Be their booster!
Bring on the boosters!
Chris Widener
Reprinted with permission from The Jim Rohn Ezine
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September 10, 2007
Skills Make Labor More Valuable by Jim Rohn
As you know by now, if you have been a long time student of my philosophies, I'm a very big proponent of activity, labor and discipline. In fact, I devoted one of the five major pieces to the life puzzle (in my book under the same name) to the subject of activity and labor. But now let me add another key word to the labor equation - skillful. Yes, skillful labor.
We need the skills to help build our family's dreams, the skills to stir up an enterprise and make it successful. We need skills to build equities for the future. We need skills of all kinds.
How about this - skillful language. If you just talk to your family you can hold them all together, but if you skillfully talk to your children you can help them build dreams for the future. That is why I spend so much time at the Weekend Seminar on communication - how to affect others with words. You can't be lazy in language - it cost too much. What if you meant to say "what's troubling you?" and instead you said "what's wrong with you?". Wow, that's too big a mistake. And sure you could have made that mistake 10 years ago, but not now. You should have gotten much better by now in language and communication.
Skills multiply labors by two, by five, by ten, by fifty, by one hundred times. Hey, you can chop a tree down with a hammer but it takes about 30 days, called labor. But if you trade the hammer in for an ax, you can chop the tree down in about 30 minutes. What's the difference in 30 days and 30 minutes? Skills. Skills made the difference.
So do what you can - labor. But also do the best that you can do – improved skills. And you will find that the labor combined with skills will start producing miracles. Miracles with your money, miracles with your family and miracles in every part of your life.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
Reprinted with permission from The Jim Rohn Ezine
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September 9, 2007
Ten Attitudes of Top-Achievers by Brian Tracy
If you think the same way as the top achievers think, you can begin to get the same results they do. Here are ten psychological and practical ways to mirror the attitudes of top-achievers.
1. See yourself as a consultant rather than a salesperson. Believe that you are a problem-solver with regard to your product and how the client can best use it.
2. Become a doctor of selling. Act in the best interests of your “patients’ and have a high code of ethics.
3. See yourself as the president of your own sales corporation. Accept 100 percent responsibility for your results.
4. Commit yourself to being the best in your field. Dedicate yourself to lifelong learning.
5. Be ambitious, hungry, and determined to use selling as a stepping-stone to the success you want in life.
6. Have integrity. Be honest with yourself and others.
7. Engage in thorough preparation prior to every call.
8. Be an excellent listener; be extremely customer-focused.
9. Have tremendous courage. Be willing to face your fears of rejection and failure, and overcome them.
10. Be highly persistent. Start your workday earlier, work harder, and stay longer.
To make these changes work you must walk, talk, and behave consistently with them every hour of every day.
Brian Tracy
Reprinted with permission from The Ron White Ezine
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September 8, 2007
Learn From Failure and Confirm with Success by Chris Widener
Most people think that failure is bad and success is good. I want to help you change your thinking about that if you fall into that category. I will give you that failure isn't fun and success is, but I think the following is true:
Both failure and success are good... if you know what their specific purpose is.
Of course we know that success is good, but why? Success is good because it confirms things for us.
Success confirms our plans.
Success confirms our decisions.
Success confirms our resources.
Success confirms our strategies.
Success confirms our hunches.
Success confirms our teamwork.
Success confirms our risks.
Success confirms a lot of things!
So when you are successful, ask yourself the following question: What does this success confirm in my mind?
Now, what about failure? What is the role of failure and how in the world can it be GOOD?
Failure's role is to teach us. We learn from failure.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our plans.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our decisions.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our resources.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our strategies.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our hunches.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our teamwork.
Failure teaches us that we need to change our risks.
Failure teaches us that we need to change a lot of things!
But at least now we know one more thing that won't work! With every failure, we learn one more way we can abandon and focus in on what may be the correct way in the future! When we look at it that way, we set ourselves up for a powerfully successful future! So when you fail, ask yourself this question: What does this failure teach me?
Remember, Success and Failure are both good. They can both be your friend... If you know what role they are to play in your life.
Learn From Failure and Confirm with Success!
Chris Widener
Reprinted with permission from The Chris Widener Ezine
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September 7, 2007
Change Begins with Choice by Jim Rohn
Any day we wish; we can discipline ourselves to change it all. Any day we wish; we can open the book that will open our mind to new knowledge. Any day we wish; we can start a new activity. Any day we wish; we can start the process of life change. We can do it immediately, or next week, or next month, or next year.
We can also do nothing. We can pretend rather than perform. And if the idea of having to change ourselves makes us uncomfortable, we can remain as we are. We can choose rest over labor, entertainment over education, delusion over truth, and doubt over confidence. The choices are ours to make. But while we curse the effect, we continue to nourish the cause. As Shakespeare uniquely observed, "The fault is not in the stars, but in ourselves." We created our circumstances by our past choices. We have both the ability and the responsibility to make better choices beginning today. Those who are in search of the good life do not need more answers or more time to think things over to reach better conclusions. They need the truth. They need the whole truth. And they need nothing but the truth.
We cannot allow our errors in judgment, repeated every day, to lead us down the wrong path. We must keep coming back to those basics that make the biggest difference in how our life works out. And then we must make the very choices that will bring life, happiness and joy into our daily lives.
And if I may be so bold to offer my last piece of advice for someone seeking and needing to make changes in their life - If you don't like how things are, change it! You're not a tree. You have the ability to totally transform every area in your life - and it all begins with your very own power of choice.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 6, 2007
Simply Solving the Puzzle by Vic Johnson
"Even if he fails again and again to accomplish his purpose -- as he must until weakness is overcome -- the strength of character gained will be the measure of his true success, and this will form a new starting point for future power and triumph." – As A Man Thinketh
When most young children are given a puzzle to solve or put together that is especially challenging, most will make a good effort at solving it, but if unsuccessful will soon lose interest and abandon it. Some will even become angry at their failure to solve it and may throw a tantrum.
Contrast that with the experienced puzzle player who proceeds to put the puzzle together with an air of certain confidence that they will complete it. They know that they have all of the pieces of the puzzle before them so it is only a matter of finding out which pieces work where and once that's done the puzzle will be complete. Putting a piece in the wrong place is not a cause for concern; it's simply another step toward putting all of the pieces in their proper place.
I think of all the times in my life when I acted like a young child in dealing with the current puzzle in my life. Instead of turning over and trying the next piece, I got angry and walked away from the puzzle, seeing the puzzle as a problem instead of as an opportunity.
Napoleon Hill, author of the classic Think and Grow Rich, knew Thomas Edison and Henry Ford personally. He said of both men that the ONLY thing that was different about them from everyone else was their persistence. Which gives rise to an interesting thought. Where would our civilization be today if either man had treated his puzzles like the impatient young child?
If you don't have all of the pieces of your puzzle on the table, then stop, identify them and get them on the table before proceeding. If, however, you've got them on the table, then take the approach of the experienced puzzle player. When they don't fit -- don't quit -- try another piece or move them to another place. While you're at it, learn another valuable lesson from great puzzle players. They don't just enjoy completing the puzzle; they delight in putting it together.
Napoleon Hill thought Persistence was a pretty important key to success -- he used the word 97 times in Think and Grow Rich and he devoted an entire chapter to it. Some of his wisdom includes, "The majority of people are ready to throw their aims and purposes overboard, and give up at the first sign of opposition or misfortune. A few carry on DESPITE all opposition, until they attain their goal. These few are the Fords, Carnegies, Rockefellers, and Edisons. There may be no heroic connotation to the word "persistence," but the quality is to the character of man what carbon is to steel."
And that's worth thinking about.
Vic Johnson
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 5, 2007
Developing Desire to Succeed by Tom Hopkins
Here are three methods of developing a burning desire to succeed. They will work -- if you want them to.
1. The greatest obstacle to developing desire is a conviction that we'll never be able to fulfill it. So many people discourage desire to avoid the frustration they may encounter. If you don't have a burning desire to better your life, you're cheating yourself and your loved ones with phony excuses. You're choosing a level of life that's poor compared to what you could have with the extra exertion you're capable of. It's all on your shoulders and there's no way you can shift a bit of the responsibility to anyone else.
2. Focus on the specific things you want. Make agreements with yourself. When I do this, I get that. Don't try to make yourself work for nothing.
3. Take it in steps. If you've never made more than minimum wage, don't aim for half a million dollars the first year. The essential element is faith in yourself.
I know former migrant farm workers who came out of the fields and make themselves wealthy. If your sunshine wants far outstrip your cold morning desire, have a talk with yourself, then have a lot more talks. Convince yourself you can succeed and will succeed.
Tom Hopkins
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 4, 2007
Good Thoughts Bear Good Fruit by Vic Johnson
"Every thought-seed sown or allowed to fall into the mind, and to take root there, produces its own, blossoming sooner or later into act, and bearing its own fruitage of opportunity and circumstance. Good thoughts bear good fruit, bad thoughts bad fruit." - As A Man Thinketh
My friend, Mark Shearon, once posed a very enlightening question to a telephone audience, "Are you thinking about what you're thinking about?" Read that sentence again and read it carefully. It's not a play on words.
Most people give very little thought to what occupies their thinking and ever fewer people understand that "good thoughts bear good fruit, bad thoughts, bad fruit." Most of us understand the law of sowing and reaping in other aspects of life, but we fail to understand that this same law is just as potent when our thoughts are involved.
A June 1997 story in the Wall Street Journal said that HMOs reported that as much as 70 percent of all visits to a primary care physician are for a psychosomatic illness -- a disorder that involves both mind and body. According to Dr. David Sobel, a primary care physician and author of the highly respected Mind-Body Health Newsletter, only 16 percent of people who visit their physician for common maladies like nausea, headache and stomach upset are diagnosed with a physical, organic cause. That means that a whopping 84% are suffering from an illness that originated in 'Thought'!
These statistics tell us that the majority of people literally think their way into sickness.
If you've never trained yourself in "right thinking," I challenge you to spend today monitoring and recording your thoughts. If your understand the power of thought in your life, at the end of the day you won't be surprised at why your life is where it's at today, be it good or bad.
In 'Make Your Life Worthwhile', Emmet Fox wrote, "The more you think about lack, bad times, etc., the worse will your business be; and the more you think of prosperity, abundance and success, the more of these things will you bring into your life."
The more you think about your grievances or the injustices that you have suffered, the more such trials will you continue to receive; and the more you think of the good fortune you have had, the more good fortune will come to you.
And that's worth thinking about.
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 3, 2007
Every Decision We Make has an "Opportunity Cost" by Denis Waitley
Every decision forfeits all other opportunities we had before we made it. We can't be two places at the same time. In their excellent management book, Tradeoffs, Drs. Greiff and Munter discuss the difficult options that face us in all areas of our lives. One case in point illustrates a common opportunity cost. It's a true anecdote they call, "Bicycle vs. Mother":
"John is a precocious eight-year-old boy. Both his parents work. His mother is a management consultant and travels frequently. After being away for several days, she arrived home late one night and hugged her son.
He said, 'Mom, I missed you. Why were you away so long?'
She smiled and replied, 'One of the reasons I was away was to make enough money to buy you the bicycle you wanted.'
Young John looked at her reflectively and stated, 'Mom, I really did want the bicycle. But mothers are more important than bicycles. So please stay home more.'"
Even though we all are aware of the tradeoffs of "quality time vs. quantity time" in our relationships, we are not used to thinking specifically about how our decisions cost us other opportunities. Without this understanding, our decisions will often be unfocused and unrelated to helping us achieve our most important goals.
This week be more aware of the "opportunity cost" and use this to help you make great decisions!
Denis Waitley
Reprinted with permission from The Denis Waitley Ezine
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September 2, 2007
Bring Added Value - It's a Must for Job Security by Connie Podesta
WHAT ADDED VALUE DO you bring to your job that directly contributes to the financial stability, success, and growth of your organization? If your manager asked you this question, how would you respond? Would your response be persuasive? Your ability to demonstrate through performance and behavior that you are a vital part of the team can determine your future employability.
Decision-makers are often overwhelmed with demands. As a result, they are often unaware of your positive contributions. Negative things come to their attention first, so you need to demonstrate and document the value you add. Don´t expect your boss to notice your extra work, additional training, creative ideas, and special projects. You may be enthusiastic and intelligent, communicate effectively, exhibit strong leadership skills, embrace change, work efficiently, and possess technical competence and strong interpersonal skills—yet still find yourself unemployed simply because you fail to persuade your boss that the skills, ideas, and commitment you bring to your work are vital to team success.
To convince your boss that you and your job are essential, you must think about what you bring to your job and the unique, significant impact you have on your organization and its customers. You must also demonstrate this contribution to your boss in a persuasive way. You must convince people that you have a positive impact on bottom-line profits by showing them how you help make and save money.
Help make money:
If your organization is committed to making a profit by providing top-quality products and services along with extra value to its customers, then you must show how your job contributes to that pursuit.
Organizations make money by retaining current customers and bringing in new customers. Your value will be related to the positive impact you have on these goals. If you do not have direct customer contact (either servicing existing customers or attracting new customers) or work for or with those who do, your job may not be perceived as vital.
The customer ultimately determines the ability to make a profit. As Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart, said: “There is only one boss—the customer. And he can fire everybody, by spending his money elsewhere.’
This means that you must be 100 percent committed to bringing in new customers and keeping the ones you have. Make the customer your focus daily by doing your job in a way that will have a positive impact upon those who deal with customers. You must bring added value in the form of profits by focusing on the impact on customers.
Help save money:
You can also help increase profits by saving money. Managers seek to save in five ways: reduce staff (downsizing and layoffs), cut benefits, lower wages, decrease products or services (cutbacks), or increase productivity. Since you aren´t interested in the first four options, think of ways to increase your productivity by working smarter and producing more to maintain your salary and benefits.
If you are worried about your job security and frustrated by the extra work and fewer resources, you can´t let this affect your job performance. Employers definitely have the right to expect that you give l00 percent of your efforts during paid work time. Beyond increasing productivity, you also help save money by integrating money-saving ideas into your job. If you can spot money-wasting activities and then come up with a solution to remedy the situation, you´ll prove your loyalty and added value.
Stand Out in a Positive Way:
You stand out when you add value to your job and your decision-makers know who you are and what you do. Your presence must be felt in a positive way and linked to the contributions you personally make.
Many people argue, whine, and complain about their jobs, duties, customers, equipment, and co-workers. If you attract attention by being negative, don´t be surprised when you lose your job! Negative attention does not help. People should associate your name, face, and expertise with positive feelings about your work, your teamwork, your customer commitment, and the value you bring.
Do your customers, co-workers, and supervisors know who you are? And if they do, would a discussion about you and your work be positive and favorable? Are you essential to your organization´s growth? Are you the one person your company should retain and never let go? Even if all your answers are yes, you still need to document your contribution. You don´t need to brag or boast, but you do need to maintain a healthy self-confidence and blow your own horn a bit to sell yourself. You should be able to say: “I do some very special things for this organization. I should be recognized as someone they need to keep because of the added value I bring to my job. It´s up to me to let them know how and what I contribute.’ Have a positive attitude, and soon your energy and enthusiasm will help motivate your colleagues and customers.
Communicate assertively and work cooperatively in team settings. Be flexible and accept change when a new idea seems appropriate. Let your employer know how you can best help increase productivity and profitability. And keep your negative thoughts, complaints, and energy to yourself. To stay employed, determine how you bring added value and discover ways to share or demonstrate your value with those in charge. Think of the ways you can help make money, save money, inform management about your accomplishments, and position yourself as a valuable and vital employee. Once you determine these factors, you can answer the all important question: “What added value do you bring to your job that contributes directly to the financial stability, success, and growth?’
ACTION: Prove your value to your organization.
Connie Podesta
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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September 1, 2007
The Major Key to Your Better Future is You by Jim Rohn
Of all the things that can have an effect on your future, I believe personal growth is the greatest. We can talk about sales growth, profit growth, asset growth, but all of this probably will not happen without personal growth. It's really the open door to it all. In fact I'd like to have you memorize a most important phrase. Here it is, "The major key to your better future is YOU."
Let me repeat that. "The major key to your better future is YOU." Put it someplace where you can see it everyday, in the bathroom, in the kitchen, at the office, anywhere where you can see it everyday. The major key to your better future is YOU. Try to remember that every day you live and think about it. The major key is YOU.
Now, there are many things that will help your better future. If you belong to a strong, dynamic, progressive company, that would help. If the company has good products, good services that you are proud of, that would certainly help. If there were good sales aids, that would help, good training would certainly help. If there is strong leadership that will certainly help. All of these things will help, and of course, if it doesn't storm, that will help. If your car doesn't break down, that will help. If the kids don't get sick, that will help. If the neighbors stay half way civil, that will help. If your relatives don't bug you, that will help. If it isn't too cold, if it isn't too hot, all those things will help your better future. And if prices don't go much higher and if taxes don't get much heavier, that will help. And if the economy stays stable, those things will all help. We could go on and on with the list; but remember this, the list of things that I've just cover! ed and many more - all put together - play a minor role in your better future.
The major key to your better future is you. Lock your mind onto that. This is a super important point to remember. The major key is you. A friend of mine has always answered when asked, "How do you develop an above average income?" He says, "Simple. Become an above average person. Work on you." My friend says, "Develop an above average handshake." He says, "A lot of people want to be successful, and they don't even work on their handshake. As easy as that would be to start, they let it slide. They don't understand." My friend says, "Develop an above average smile. Develop an above average excitement. Develop an above average dedication. Develop an above average interest in other people." He says, "To have more, become more." Remember; work harder on yourself than you do on your job. For a long time in my life, I didn't have this figured out.
Strangely enough, with two different people in the same company one may earn an extra $100 a month, and the other may earn a $1,000. What could possibly be the difference? If the products were the same, if the training was the same, if they both had the same literature, the same tools. If they both had the same teacher, the same compensation plan, if they both attended the same meetings, why would one person earn the $100 per month and the other person earn the $1000?
Remember here is the difference...the difference is personal, inside, not outside, inside.
You see the real difference is inside you. In fact, the difference IS you. Someone once said, "The magic is not in the products. The magic is not in the literature. The magic is not in the film. There isn't a magic meeting, but the magic that makes things better is inside you, and personal growth makes this magic work for you."
The magic is in believing. The magic is in daring. The magic is in trying. The real magic is in persevering. The magic is in accepting. It's in working. The magic is in thinking. There is magic in a handshake. There is magic in a smile. There is magic in excitement and determination. There is real magic in compassion and caring and sharing. There is unusual magic in strong feeling and you see, all that comes from inside, not outside. So, the difference is inside you. The real difference is you. You are the major key to your better future.
To Your Success,
Jim Rohn
Reprinted with permission from Your Achievement Ezine
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