Success!
When asked most of us would say we want to be successful. Of course we do...why are you even asking?
But if asked what that means to you could you answer? Can you define what success means to you in detail? Can you picture yourself in the future, being what successful means to you? If not, if you can't paint that picture in your mind in clear detail - your chances of achieving that success is very limited. In order to picture it you have to know what "it" is.
Years ago, in the late '90's, I was introduced to personal growth. After trying a couple of options I settled in at Context Associated and did the "Excellence Series", a 3 course process. Context is now known as Context International. They run multiple day classes to help you get in touch with your thoughts, views, and opinions - basically the way you view the world (your unique context), so you can choose to adjust it if you want different results. They respect all religious views and all activities and events are based on choice and respect. I especially liked the second course in the 3 course series - The Wall. In "The Wall" we did many activities and reflective thinking exercises to identify what is stopping us, our Walls. We also eventually come up with what we call our Definition of Success.
We all know comparing is dangerous, everyone is on their own path. Sometimes, to most everyone else, a person will appear successful, yet they don't feel or experience success internally. I believe that is because there is something missing for them. We all have multiple elements or experiences we need to have daily in order for us to feel successful. Mine will be different then yours. So we each have a unique definition of success that we need to experience daily. Once we recognize the elements and develop constructive strategies to achieve them, we can begin to experience more success for ourselves all of the time, and better course correct when we aren't.
I believe most people never do the work to clearly identify these elements for themselves and therefore do not have a clear picture of what success is for them. They do have some idea of their Walls, what they won't do or don't want. They have good days and bad days but don't know how to re-create the good and avoid the bad. This is why so many people take someone else's successful life and say "That is what I want...". They don't really know, but it looks good from over here. What they don't realise is the work, the struggles, and commitment the person they have decided is successful has went through to get there. It is not an accident. Only by doing the work to know what success is, then holding a clear vision of that up and constantly working towards it, were they able to move through all of the adversity, stay on track, and gain success.
I've also noticed most everyone wants more money, and along with that more time. We usually want more of both of these in order to experience more of the other elements we consider successful. In my first blog A New Way of Thinking and my second Putting to Rest The 'Old Ways' of Thinking, I talk about what Robert Kiyosaki calls the Sacred Cows. Old ways of thinking that no longer work in today's world. When we aren't clear on our own path and what we want and need daily to feel vibrant, alive, and successful, we more easily fall into the trap of these old ways of thinking.
So my challenge to you is - get clear on what success means for you.
Do the work to define what is stopping you and also what you call Success. Context International is a great organization and the courses will help you gain clarity in this area. If you know of other options great, but realize there is no shortcut. At some point you just have to do the work.
For me it is one of the best gifts I ever gave myself and I use the information daily.
Keep growing and learning!
*If you are open and looking for options to create more time and money in your life, part time, watch this video, use the tab up top and choose Business Opportunity Presentation Video...
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Monday, September 17, 2012
Keeping Agreements
In some segments of society today it seems to be a missing skill.
The Agreement...
Making an Agreement and keeping Agreements are two different things!
Life today can be very dynamic in our fast paced world and schedules can and do change in a second. In fact change is the constant, as much as we like to think things stay the same. I know most of the time I have more agreements that shift and change than I do that stay the same. Of course I am not talking about major commitments, like a relationship or marriage.
A couple of very important components to making and keeping Agreements is:
When making an agreement be sure to ask questions so you are both agreeing to the same thing. It is easy to cut a corner or make an assumption and not really have the details clarified. This happens most with people we know well, and then we have conflict. What happens in this case is both parties are committed to the agreement it's just that they have agreed to different things. These types of agreements lead to follow up conversations that very often contain phrases like, "I thought you meant..." or "I assumed you meant..." or "I guess I thought...". When making the agreement take a moment in your mind (I'm talking a couple of seconds) to look ahead and identify possible issues. Just be curious for a moment. Things like other plans that may shift into this time frame, depending on other situations for this step to happen, and having contingencies for when those do not happen as agreed or planned. This forecasting can often prevent the cascading effect one issue can have on the entire string of agreements or an entire day. Clarify the details and be crystal clear.
If the agreement involves a meeting or getting back to someone by a certain date and time, as most do, make sure the details are tracked. Go ahead and set a reminder in your calendar or on your phone, whatever works best for you. There are so many ways to do this today it is really inexcusable to not do it. Most all contact management software has reminder and alarm options.
If it is a meeting it also needs to be written down so the time can be reserved for what was agreed upon and not double booked. Have a day planner or schedule of some kind so you don't have to keep everything in your head. When it isn't written down, over time details can shift and change not to mention you have to use mental capacity to remember and that capacity is not available for other purposes - like what is going on right now! Yes you're smart, that's why you write agreements down.
Here is where many of us fall short in the agreement creation and honoring cycle - making changes. When we make an agreement with someone we have a commitment in place. When something comes up that conflicts with or changes an agreement most of us make the change, and then call the other party to let them know what we've done. We just broke the agreement.
Instead, what we should be doing prior to making the change or revising the agreement, is to call the other party and let them know something is going on and work it out. Let them know you respect their time and want to honor the agreement, explain the situation, and then together make the changes to your agreement. Almost always you will get what you want or need. You will also gain trust and respect from your peers by doing it this way. You'll find that more people keep their agreements with you and notify you more in advance if there is a shift or change.
Whether you work for a large enterprise, a SMB (small to medium business), or you are an entrepreneur working from home or on your own, managing agreements and keeping them is a skill. As Jack Canfield says, "Relationships are built on trust and respect, and few relationships are as important as the ones among members of your team. One critical way to build and maintain strong team relationships is to ensure that you are keeping your agreements." Read the rest of his article on Keeping Agreements To Strengthen Your Team.
Take the time and pay attention to how you make agreements, how you track and manage agreements, and how you make changes to the agreements you have in your life.
Managing your Agreements with integrity and respecting the other parties time and what was agreed upon can and will pay huge dividends and gain you much respect and trust from those in your network. TRY IT!
PS. For those that keep your options open and are looking for something better consider this vehicle or opportunity to help you acheive your dreams and goals - watch the video (tab on top of page) to take part in a modern day gold rush...
The Agreement...
Making an Agreement and keeping Agreements are two different things!
Life today can be very dynamic in our fast paced world and schedules can and do change in a second. In fact change is the constant, as much as we like to think things stay the same. I know most of the time I have more agreements that shift and change than I do that stay the same. Of course I am not talking about major commitments, like a relationship or marriage.
A couple of very important components to making and keeping Agreements is:
1) Know what you are agreeing to;
2) Know the time lines, dates, and times and make sure to track;
If the agreement involves a meeting or getting back to someone by a certain date and time, as most do, make sure the details are tracked. Go ahead and set a reminder in your calendar or on your phone, whatever works best for you. There are so many ways to do this today it is really inexcusable to not do it. Most all contact management software has reminder and alarm options.
If it is a meeting it also needs to be written down so the time can be reserved for what was agreed upon and not double booked. Have a day planner or schedule of some kind so you don't have to keep everything in your head. When it isn't written down, over time details can shift and change not to mention you have to use mental capacity to remember and that capacity is not available for other purposes - like what is going on right now! Yes you're smart, that's why you write agreements down.
Here is where many of us fall short in the agreement creation and honoring cycle - making changes. When we make an agreement with someone we have a commitment in place. When something comes up that conflicts with or changes an agreement most of us make the change, and then call the other party to let them know what we've done. We just broke the agreement.
Instead, what we should be doing prior to making the change or revising the agreement, is to call the other party and let them know something is going on and work it out. Let them know you respect their time and want to honor the agreement, explain the situation, and then together make the changes to your agreement. Almost always you will get what you want or need. You will also gain trust and respect from your peers by doing it this way. You'll find that more people keep their agreements with you and notify you more in advance if there is a shift or change.
Whether you work for a large enterprise, a SMB (small to medium business), or you are an entrepreneur working from home or on your own, managing agreements and keeping them is a skill. As Jack Canfield says, "Relationships are built on trust and respect, and few relationships are as important as the ones among members of your team. One critical way to build and maintain strong team relationships is to ensure that you are keeping your agreements." Read the rest of his article on Keeping Agreements To Strengthen Your Team.
Take the time and pay attention to how you make agreements, how you track and manage agreements, and how you make changes to the agreements you have in your life.
Managing your Agreements with integrity and respecting the other parties time and what was agreed upon can and will pay huge dividends and gain you much respect and trust from those in your network. TRY IT!
PS. For those that keep your options open and are looking for something better consider this vehicle or opportunity to help you acheive your dreams and goals - watch the video (tab on top of page) to take part in a modern day gold rush...
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Back To School
It happens every year. As sure as Fall and Football. Labor Day weekend, the last holiday weekend of the summer, then...
Back to school.
Of course for some back to school starts earlier, the week before Labor Day. College and NFL football both start. There is a bit of a snap in the air as the crisp fall weather starts to push in on summer. Many times by now we have already had what I call a 'fall preview' week. This year here in the Pacific Northwest it appears we'll be having an Indian summer - drier, warmer, and sunnier than most.
I find it interesting how almost everyone gets into the "Back-To-School" mode or spirit in the late summer and early fall. Even in business it has traditionally been one of the best times of the year. Seems like everyone gets a renewed focus. So whether it be kids going back to K-12, young adults going to or back to college, or a professional that has been working for some time, my experience is everyone gets a bit more focused on goals, growth, and moving ahead in September and on through the fall.
Isn't that great!
As a business owner and entrepreneur this is an excellent time to really get focused and make a push. You can capitalize on the natural momentum and get more and better results! It is an exciting time. I'll use my experience here in the Northwest. Typically it is more challenging to get new business and new clients in July and August unless it is already in discussion. Then, almost like a gust of fall wind blowing in to signal the change of seasons, people's focus and energy shifts as we move into September. There is a natural tendency to look at our results for the year and see how they match up against our goals from the beginning of the year. Hopefully you have your yearly goals written down. Michael Hyatt has a great article on the value of putting your goals down in writing, check it out to see for yourself. Then, we adjust and make the fall push towards the end of the year.
Here are some action steps to take:
Now is the time to get into action!
Take advantage of the natural cycle and that Back-To-School energy and make your push.
Keep focused on the vision.
Make it Happen...
PS. - if you are looking for a vehicle or opportunity to help you acheive your dreams and goals consider watching this video to take part in a modern day gold rush...
Back to school.
Of course for some back to school starts earlier, the week before Labor Day. College and NFL football both start. There is a bit of a snap in the air as the crisp fall weather starts to push in on summer. Many times by now we have already had what I call a 'fall preview' week. This year here in the Pacific Northwest it appears we'll be having an Indian summer - drier, warmer, and sunnier than most.
I find it interesting how almost everyone gets into the "Back-To-School" mode or spirit in the late summer and early fall. Even in business it has traditionally been one of the best times of the year. Seems like everyone gets a renewed focus. So whether it be kids going back to K-12, young adults going to or back to college, or a professional that has been working for some time, my experience is everyone gets a bit more focused on goals, growth, and moving ahead in September and on through the fall.
Isn't that great!
As a business owner and entrepreneur this is an excellent time to really get focused and make a push. You can capitalize on the natural momentum and get more and better results! It is an exciting time. I'll use my experience here in the Northwest. Typically it is more challenging to get new business and new clients in July and August unless it is already in discussion. Then, almost like a gust of fall wind blowing in to signal the change of seasons, people's focus and energy shifts as we move into September. There is a natural tendency to look at our results for the year and see how they match up against our goals from the beginning of the year. Hopefully you have your yearly goals written down. Michael Hyatt has a great article on the value of putting your goals down in writing, check it out to see for yourself. Then, we adjust and make the fall push towards the end of the year.
Here are some action steps to take:
>Review and assess your written goals for the year;
>Write out your goals for September through December;
>Get with your manager, coach, mentor, or team leader to review and develop a specific plan for you - break it down into actionable and measurable steps;
>If you are a team leader get with your entire team to gain consensus and help everyone to buy in. This is a good article on how to help with that. While the article focuses on a Project, consider your fall goals your project through the end of the year. Really pay attention to the third paragraph - sharing a clear vision. Make sure everyone on the team knows that vision, this can have a huge impact. Paint a BIG VISION.
Take advantage of the natural cycle and that Back-To-School energy and make your push.
Keep focused on the vision.
Make it Happen...
PS. - if you are looking for a vehicle or opportunity to help you acheive your dreams and goals consider watching this video to take part in a modern day gold rush...
Friday, September 14, 2012
TGIF, Really?
Thank God it’s Friday!!!
TGIF… A saying most of us have used in the past or still use frequently.
However, I also work with a group of others that don’t even know what day of the week it is most of the time. Really… And if they do know they don’t care. They usually get reminded as Sunday rolls around and they go to church.
My point is, what kind of life are we living when we count down to Friday and the weekend every week? Just surviving Monday through Friday to really live those 2 days before we go back to the weekly grind. Is that really living? Who’s in control?
A couple of posts ago (Empower Network blog) I mentioned Robert Kiyosaki and his video Shooting the Sacred Cows of Money. If you haven’t watched it yet I highly recommend you take the time to do so, now. Don’t put it off. The entire video is about 1 hour, this link to the YouTube video is just 2:36 and still makes the overall point. Those old ways or beliefs - Go to College, Get a Job, Work Hard, Save Money, Invest in a Diversified Portfolio, they no longer work in today’s world. It is pretty clear to me that those I know who are more attached to those “old ways” of thinking and doing, the Sacred Cows as Robert Kiyosaki calls them, are the ones doing more of the weekly grind. Just putting in the time at ‘work’ to get out and live our ‘real’ lives. Of course their (our) real lives are filled with the repercussions of those old ways – high credit card debt, huge mortgage payments, liabilities we call assets like a house and cars and toys, and many times working 40+ hours per week on someone else’s schedule with little or no time for those we love and care about most. Not the dream most of us had when we bought into those old beliefs.
Those beliefs did work in the past…
But that is all different today and we need to embrace the new ways…
That other group I mentioned, the group that many times doesn’t even know what day of the week it is, this group doesn’t say TGIF. They love every day and do what they love every day. They are today’s entrepreneurs. Leaders blazing new trails and establishing the “new ways” that work today in this new Information Age. Sometimes they use older concepts in new ways – like franchising or brokering. Many times it involves entire new industries and all new ways of doing business. The Internet is a new vehicle (OK, new since 1989) that has created and provided many new opportunities for individuals to work from home or anywhere they want, work when they want for as long as they decide, and create their own versions of success. There are all kinds of options like managing websites that sell products, Affiliate Marketing, managing lists and groups of customers, and so many more… I really like Empower Network.
Another great ‘new’ vehicle or method is Direct Sales, also called Network Marketing or Multilevel Marketing (MLM). Direct Sales is the oldest and most traditional form of sales or moving products, it is based on referrals and recommendations. This industry was founded back in the fifties and with the Internet has really come into it’s own. There are hundreds of companies selling every type of product or service. Compensation varies and the support and training varies so do your research. You should be looking for what author Richard Poe calls a Wave 4 company in his book Wave 4: Network Marketing in the 21st Century. Having re-occuring purchases and products everyone uses is a crucial concept.
I like ACN and the platform they’ve provided for Telecommunications and Energy – something we all use and can never pay off. The deregulation of energy has created a modern day gold rush and you can be a part of it! Watch this short video for more on this great opportunity to create a residual income and the time to enjoy it, use the link and select the video tab up top. Even if this isn’t for you the video is very eye opening…
So, as the classic rock song goes, are you just “Working for the weekend?"
Or do you have a plan that works in today’s world, providing you the income, time, and lifestyle you want?
If you don’t, consider using the links above to begin researching options and learning what you need to know in order to become a successful entrepreneur in the 21st century!
Whatever you do, Be All In!
TGIF… A saying most of us have used in the past or still use frequently.
However, I also work with a group of others that don’t even know what day of the week it is most of the time. Really… And if they do know they don’t care. They usually get reminded as Sunday rolls around and they go to church.
My point is, what kind of life are we living when we count down to Friday and the weekend every week? Just surviving Monday through Friday to really live those 2 days before we go back to the weekly grind. Is that really living? Who’s in control?
A couple of posts ago (Empower Network blog) I mentioned Robert Kiyosaki and his video Shooting the Sacred Cows of Money. If you haven’t watched it yet I highly recommend you take the time to do so, now. Don’t put it off. The entire video is about 1 hour, this link to the YouTube video is just 2:36 and still makes the overall point. Those old ways or beliefs - Go to College, Get a Job, Work Hard, Save Money, Invest in a Diversified Portfolio, they no longer work in today’s world. It is pretty clear to me that those I know who are more attached to those “old ways” of thinking and doing, the Sacred Cows as Robert Kiyosaki calls them, are the ones doing more of the weekly grind. Just putting in the time at ‘work’ to get out and live our ‘real’ lives. Of course their (our) real lives are filled with the repercussions of those old ways – high credit card debt, huge mortgage payments, liabilities we call assets like a house and cars and toys, and many times working 40+ hours per week on someone else’s schedule with little or no time for those we love and care about most. Not the dream most of us had when we bought into those old beliefs.
Those beliefs did work in the past…
But that is all different today and we need to embrace the new ways…
That other group I mentioned, the group that many times doesn’t even know what day of the week it is, this group doesn’t say TGIF. They love every day and do what they love every day. They are today’s entrepreneurs. Leaders blazing new trails and establishing the “new ways” that work today in this new Information Age. Sometimes they use older concepts in new ways – like franchising or brokering. Many times it involves entire new industries and all new ways of doing business. The Internet is a new vehicle (OK, new since 1989) that has created and provided many new opportunities for individuals to work from home or anywhere they want, work when they want for as long as they decide, and create their own versions of success. There are all kinds of options like managing websites that sell products, Affiliate Marketing, managing lists and groups of customers, and so many more… I really like Empower Network.
Another great ‘new’ vehicle or method is Direct Sales, also called Network Marketing or Multilevel Marketing (MLM). Direct Sales is the oldest and most traditional form of sales or moving products, it is based on referrals and recommendations. This industry was founded back in the fifties and with the Internet has really come into it’s own. There are hundreds of companies selling every type of product or service. Compensation varies and the support and training varies so do your research. You should be looking for what author Richard Poe calls a Wave 4 company in his book Wave 4: Network Marketing in the 21st Century. Having re-occuring purchases and products everyone uses is a crucial concept.
I like ACN and the platform they’ve provided for Telecommunications and Energy – something we all use and can never pay off. The deregulation of energy has created a modern day gold rush and you can be a part of it! Watch this short video for more on this great opportunity to create a residual income and the time to enjoy it, use the link and select the video tab up top. Even if this isn’t for you the video is very eye opening…
So, as the classic rock song goes, are you just “Working for the weekend?"
Or do you have a plan that works in today’s world, providing you the income, time, and lifestyle you want?
If you don’t, consider using the links above to begin researching options and learning what you need to know in order to become a successful entrepreneur in the 21st century!
Whatever you do, Be All In!
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