From personal experience and working with hundreds of
clients, I notice that change is hard. And, perhaps most
frustrating of all, too often old habits come back and
change rarely lasts. I think we can fix that!
Everyone seems to have some habit or behavior they want to
change. Maybe it's spending less, or weighing less, or using
time more productively, but too often people set a goal,
decide to "go for it" and try really hard. Sometimes they
change for a while, but in the end, they revert back to old
habits and they feel like a "failure." They get cynical and
discouraged. They even start making fun of "New Year's
Resolutions" and doubt that goal-setting programs will ever
work.
That's a shame. Fortunately, there is a way to be
successful--if you know the recipe!
Step 1: Acknowledge that change involves. . .change! Habits
die hard. The brain has tried-and-true neural pathways that
mostly serve us well and make life easier and efficient for
us. That's actually a very good thing! But when we try to
change our habits (neural pathways), the brain resists. Take
this normal resistance seriously, admit it exists, and use
powerful strategies to install new habits. If we don't do
this first step, in the end, old habits will return.
Step 2: Be PRECISE about the change you want. Generalities
and hopes to "do better" won't cut it. Decide exactly what
you want, what it will look like, and how you will measure
your progress. Skipping the few minutes it takes to do this
step carefully and thoroughly is a setup for failure. Be
precise! Define the exact change you want. Remember, clarity
is power!
Step 3: Lists the COSTS of not changing. What will it cost
you over a lifetime to continue your old habit? Will you die
younger? Will you be poorer or more frustrated or have less
integrity? Again, do not skip this step! There are reasons
(important, vital reasons) you want to change. Write them
down.
Step 4: List the ADVANTAGES of making the change you want.
How will you (and your loved ones) benefit from this change?
Will you be richer, stronger, live longer, be happier, or
healthier? Will you be more fulfilled? Will you have greater
integrity or achieve more in life? What are the real,
tangible benefits from making this change? List them all!
Step 5: DECIDE the change is worth it! Make the commitment.
Design systems and strategies for success. Think it through
and be very clear that the "new you" is going to happen,
and quickly! Being "interested" or hopeful, or wishing for
change is not enough. Assess the costs and advantages, then
decide.
Step 6: Be ACCOUNTABLE. Tell people about the change you
are making and ask them to monitor your progress. Use a
MasterMind. Ask family and loved ones to be your
cheerleaders. Report on your progress (and, if appropriate,
on your failures) and use your support team to cheer you on.
Get a coach! Fitness is easy if your best friend, a loved
one, or your entire team is waiting for you at the gym!
Be accountable!
Step 7: CHART your progress. Post your weight on the
refrigerator door. Post your monthly budget where the family
can see it. Use graphs and pictures to mark your progress
and get feedback from people who care about your success.
Step 8: CELEBRATE! Too many people skip or forget this key
step! As you hit your benchmarks or when you are convinced
the new habit is successfully installed, have a family
celebration! Mark your victories! Change is hard and when
you've achieved it, you deserve a BIG reward, a victory
celebration and a HAPPY DANCE! Do this. It will make
everything easier.
Change can be hard, but it's not all that hard. We change
and grow, we learn new things and become new people all the
time. When the change we desire is specific, the costs and
benefits are clear, and we have the support of people who
love us, change is almost easy. And definitely more fun! You
can do this! The key is to plan wisely, start today, and
stay the course.
Quotes of the Week
"In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the
right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing." -- Theodore Roosevelt
"In each of us are places where we have never gone. Only by
pressing the limits do you ever find them." -- Dr. Joyce Brothers
"Man is so made that when anything fires his soul,
impossibilities vanish." -- Jean De La Fontaine
"Most of the things worth doing in the world have been
declared impossible before they were attempted." -- Earl Nightingale
Monday, August 29, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
3 ESSENTIAL WEALTH-BUILDING CONCEPTS THEY DON'T TEACH IN SCHOOL
By the time the average student graduates from high school, he will have invested around 15,000 hours in learning about a wide variety of subjects, which are considered necessary in order to be successful in life.
Many go on to college where they'll spend another 2,000 or so hours studying a specific subject in preparation for a rewarding career.
If we were to stop each graduate as they stepped off the stage and ask them the question, "What's your biggest goal in life?" chances are the most popular answer would be, "To make a lot of money."
Although this kind of wet-behind-the-ears answer may lack the seasoning of maturity, it's hard to overlook the fact that - intentionally or not - schools simply fail to teach financial literacy.
What about the economics classes? Nope, most of what you usually get is just a bunch of academic mumbo-jumbo that's entirely useless to all but a handful of policy makers.
Is it any wonder why the vast majority of us don't understand the basic principles of money and wealth?
Why are so many people living paycheck to paycheck? Why has consumer debt spiraled out of control? Why aren't you happy with your own financial situation?
Well, the answer goes deeper than just an economic downturn or the transition from The Industrial Age to The Information Age.
While many people are currently facing tough financial circumstances, there are also those who have become even wealthier during these uncertain times.
These people aren't any smarter than anyone else, but they do understand something that most everyone else doesn't: the difference between earning money and creating wealth.
They understand and use the following three wealth-building concepts that aren't taught in school, but should be:
Wealth-Building Concept #1: Leverage
Leverage is being able to do a lot with a little. Within the context of creating wealth, it means leveraging financial resources to get better than average results.
Truly understanding how this concept works is what separates the poor and middle class from the wealthy.
If you're currently trading your time for someone else's dollars at a job, you can only exchange about 14 to 15 hours a day. And since time = life, you're literally selling your life to someone else. One of the most popular ways to leverage your time is to become a business owner and multiply your efforts and profits by having other people work for you.
The other way to leverage your time is to be an investor or a trader -- someone who uses money as leverage. Most financial institutions and businesses have been using O.P.M. (other people's money) for centuries.
Think about it:
• Your bank and credit card companies make money with your money
• Your insurance company makes money with your money
• And your mortgage company makes money with your money
The good news is, you too have the same opportunity to make money just like these guys do when you apply these wealth-building concepts in your own life.
Wealth-Building Concept #2: The Rule of 72
You may already know how The Rule of 72 works, but what I've found is that most people who have heard of it don't really remember what it says (which means they probably aren't applying it), or a larger segment of the population has vaguely heard of it, but they don't have a clue about what it is.
The Rule of 72 is a very key financial concept that says that if you take the number 72 and divide that by the interest you're getting on your investment, the answer to that equation will tell you how long it takes for your money to double.
For example, if your money earns 6% per year in a mutual fund and you have $10,000 in that account, it will take you 12 years to double that money (72 divided by 6% per year = 12 years).
I'm sure you'd agree, that's a really long time to wait. However, time isn't the only thing you need to contend with because you must also find a way to combat the silent wealth killer of inflation.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual inflation rate over the past 20 years has been 3.24%. In other words, you need to be earning at least 3.24% per year on your investments just to keep up with inflation.
If you're starting out in your early 20s, then you've got time on your side, and by using the next wealth-building concept I'm going to cover, you can still grow a large nest egg even with smaller annual returns.
But as a general rule, long-term investing works best when you either have a lot of money or you have a lot of time. If you're lacking in either one or both of these areas, you need other investment vehicles that are more aggressive to help you accomplish the same end result.
That certainly doesn't mean that you should allocate all or a large portion of your available investment capital into higher-yielding investments, but you do need vehicles that allow you to apply The Rule of 72 aggressively in order to get higher returns.
Wealth-Building Concept #3: The Magic of Compounding
Albert Einstein once said "The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest", yet very few people actually understand or completely comprehend what it means.
So here are a couple of scenarios showing how simple vs. compound interest plays out long-term:
Wealth Strategy #1: Your great-grandfather invested $100 in 30-day T-bills (or the equivalent) on December 31, 1925, and always rolled over all proceeds into 30-day T-bills. 78 years later, that $100 would be worth $1700.56 -- big whoop, right?
Wealth Strategy #2: Your great-grandmother invested $100 in large stocks (the S&P 500 portfolio) on December 31, 1925, and reinvested all dividends in that portfolio. 78 years later that $100 would be worth $199,200.80 -- BIG difference.
This example illustrates the amazing power of compounding. The "safe" rate of return in T-Bills pales in comparison to the second example where the profits were compounded over the same amount of years.
All of these financial concepts are vital to your success. Trying to build wealth without them is like driving a car with worn out parts. The car might still run and eventually get you to where you want to go, but it won't be as fast and efficient as it could be.
Many go on to college where they'll spend another 2,000 or so hours studying a specific subject in preparation for a rewarding career.
If we were to stop each graduate as they stepped off the stage and ask them the question, "What's your biggest goal in life?" chances are the most popular answer would be, "To make a lot of money."
Although this kind of wet-behind-the-ears answer may lack the seasoning of maturity, it's hard to overlook the fact that - intentionally or not - schools simply fail to teach financial literacy.
What about the economics classes? Nope, most of what you usually get is just a bunch of academic mumbo-jumbo that's entirely useless to all but a handful of policy makers.
Is it any wonder why the vast majority of us don't understand the basic principles of money and wealth?
Why are so many people living paycheck to paycheck? Why has consumer debt spiraled out of control? Why aren't you happy with your own financial situation?
Well, the answer goes deeper than just an economic downturn or the transition from The Industrial Age to The Information Age.
While many people are currently facing tough financial circumstances, there are also those who have become even wealthier during these uncertain times.
These people aren't any smarter than anyone else, but they do understand something that most everyone else doesn't: the difference between earning money and creating wealth.
They understand and use the following three wealth-building concepts that aren't taught in school, but should be:
Wealth-Building Concept #1: Leverage
Leverage is being able to do a lot with a little. Within the context of creating wealth, it means leveraging financial resources to get better than average results.
Truly understanding how this concept works is what separates the poor and middle class from the wealthy.
If you're currently trading your time for someone else's dollars at a job, you can only exchange about 14 to 15 hours a day. And since time = life, you're literally selling your life to someone else. One of the most popular ways to leverage your time is to become a business owner and multiply your efforts and profits by having other people work for you.
The other way to leverage your time is to be an investor or a trader -- someone who uses money as leverage. Most financial institutions and businesses have been using O.P.M. (other people's money) for centuries.
Think about it:
• Your bank and credit card companies make money with your money
• Your insurance company makes money with your money
• And your mortgage company makes money with your money
The good news is, you too have the same opportunity to make money just like these guys do when you apply these wealth-building concepts in your own life.
Wealth-Building Concept #2: The Rule of 72
You may already know how The Rule of 72 works, but what I've found is that most people who have heard of it don't really remember what it says (which means they probably aren't applying it), or a larger segment of the population has vaguely heard of it, but they don't have a clue about what it is.
The Rule of 72 is a very key financial concept that says that if you take the number 72 and divide that by the interest you're getting on your investment, the answer to that equation will tell you how long it takes for your money to double.
For example, if your money earns 6% per year in a mutual fund and you have $10,000 in that account, it will take you 12 years to double that money (72 divided by 6% per year = 12 years).
I'm sure you'd agree, that's a really long time to wait. However, time isn't the only thing you need to contend with because you must also find a way to combat the silent wealth killer of inflation.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual inflation rate over the past 20 years has been 3.24%. In other words, you need to be earning at least 3.24% per year on your investments just to keep up with inflation.
If you're starting out in your early 20s, then you've got time on your side, and by using the next wealth-building concept I'm going to cover, you can still grow a large nest egg even with smaller annual returns.
But as a general rule, long-term investing works best when you either have a lot of money or you have a lot of time. If you're lacking in either one or both of these areas, you need other investment vehicles that are more aggressive to help you accomplish the same end result.
That certainly doesn't mean that you should allocate all or a large portion of your available investment capital into higher-yielding investments, but you do need vehicles that allow you to apply The Rule of 72 aggressively in order to get higher returns.
Wealth-Building Concept #3: The Magic of Compounding
Albert Einstein once said "The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest", yet very few people actually understand or completely comprehend what it means.
So here are a couple of scenarios showing how simple vs. compound interest plays out long-term:
Wealth Strategy #1: Your great-grandfather invested $100 in 30-day T-bills (or the equivalent) on December 31, 1925, and always rolled over all proceeds into 30-day T-bills. 78 years later, that $100 would be worth $1700.56 -- big whoop, right?
Wealth Strategy #2: Your great-grandmother invested $100 in large stocks (the S&P 500 portfolio) on December 31, 1925, and reinvested all dividends in that portfolio. 78 years later that $100 would be worth $199,200.80 -- BIG difference.
This example illustrates the amazing power of compounding. The "safe" rate of return in T-Bills pales in comparison to the second example where the profits were compounded over the same amount of years.
All of these financial concepts are vital to your success. Trying to build wealth without them is like driving a car with worn out parts. The car might still run and eventually get you to where you want to go, but it won't be as fast and efficient as it could be.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
CREATE YOUR SALES PLAN
Nothing happens until a sale takes place. Your actual ability to sell your product or service to your customer determines your profit or loss, success or failure, in business. The sales process, to be effective, must be planned and organized in detail from start to finish. Every word and action must be scripted, rehearsed and memorized. Nothing can be left to chance.
Sales Recipe
Making a sale is like cooking with a recipe. You must use the correct ingredient and blend them in the proper quantity with the right timing. All successful companies have developed a proven sales process that can be duplicated over and over. By using a proven sales system, you can accurately predict the quantity of your sales, the average size of your sales, and the profitability of your sales activities.
Prospecting
It is important to speak directly or by telephone to people who can and will buy and pay in a reasonable period of time. Start with your ideal customer profile. Who is he or she exactly-in terms of age, occupation, income, education? Who is he or she exactly—in terms of problems, wants, needs, attitudes, and experiences regarding your product or service? If you could advertise for perfect customers, how would you describe him or her?
Marketing and advertising is aimed at telling your ideal prospect that your product will help them. The ideal prospect has an immediate need for what you sell. The ideal prospect knows you, likes you, and respects your products or business. The ideal prospect can buy and pay for your product if he or she likes it.
Establish Rapport
Establishing rapport and trust with the customer is a must. The prospect will not listen to you or buy from you unless he/she likes you and believes that you are honest. Be friendly, straightforward and believable. Be punctual, prepared and properly dressed. Ask questions and listen carefully to the answers. Make no attempt to sell until the prospect is relaxed and comfortable with you. Identify what the customer needs so you can better sell to them. Ask carefully planned, structured questions so that you can fully understand the customer's situation. There is a direct relationship between asking questions and sales success. Plan your questions word-for-word in advance. Make no effort to sell or talk about your product. Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
Presenting Your Product or Service
Repeat back the specific needs or concerns that your prospect has expressed. Position yourself as a trusted advisor, dedicated to helping him solve his problem or achieve his goal with your product. Position yourself as a teacher-showing her how your product works to help her satisfy her needs. Match the customers expressed needs and concerns to the product or service. Focus on helping rather than selling. Conclude your presentation with an explanation of how the product is delivered or used. Invite questions.
Action Exercises
List three phrases or questions you can use or ask to determine if this is a qualified prospect.
Sales Recipe
Making a sale is like cooking with a recipe. You must use the correct ingredient and blend them in the proper quantity with the right timing. All successful companies have developed a proven sales process that can be duplicated over and over. By using a proven sales system, you can accurately predict the quantity of your sales, the average size of your sales, and the profitability of your sales activities.
Prospecting
It is important to speak directly or by telephone to people who can and will buy and pay in a reasonable period of time. Start with your ideal customer profile. Who is he or she exactly-in terms of age, occupation, income, education? Who is he or she exactly—in terms of problems, wants, needs, attitudes, and experiences regarding your product or service? If you could advertise for perfect customers, how would you describe him or her?
Marketing and advertising is aimed at telling your ideal prospect that your product will help them. The ideal prospect has an immediate need for what you sell. The ideal prospect knows you, likes you, and respects your products or business. The ideal prospect can buy and pay for your product if he or she likes it.
Establish Rapport
Establishing rapport and trust with the customer is a must. The prospect will not listen to you or buy from you unless he/she likes you and believes that you are honest. Be friendly, straightforward and believable. Be punctual, prepared and properly dressed. Ask questions and listen carefully to the answers. Make no attempt to sell until the prospect is relaxed and comfortable with you. Identify what the customer needs so you can better sell to them. Ask carefully planned, structured questions so that you can fully understand the customer's situation. There is a direct relationship between asking questions and sales success. Plan your questions word-for-word in advance. Make no effort to sell or talk about your product. Seek first to understand, then to be understood.
Presenting Your Product or Service
Repeat back the specific needs or concerns that your prospect has expressed. Position yourself as a trusted advisor, dedicated to helping him solve his problem or achieve his goal with your product. Position yourself as a teacher-showing her how your product works to help her satisfy her needs. Match the customers expressed needs and concerns to the product or service. Focus on helping rather than selling. Conclude your presentation with an explanation of how the product is delivered or used. Invite questions.
Action Exercises
List three phrases or questions you can use or ask to determine if this is a qualified prospect.
Monday, August 22, 2011
AVOID PERFECTION, PURSUE EXCELLENCE
There are two famous recommendations that I don't believe
in. They are supposed to lead to the "good life" but I don't
think they work. The first is "all things in moderation" and
the second is the quest for "perfection."
Regarding moderation, I much prefer the wonderful quote from
May West that "too much of a good thing is just right." What
a great attitude!
I deserve LOTS of great things in my life! I deserve all the
health, joy, love, great memories, passion and fulfillment I
can get!
Now, I admit, I have noticed that moderation in some things
is a good thing. Moderation in drinking, for instance, seems
to reduce hangovers, accidents, addiction, and all sorts of
embarrassing moments. Moderating my consumption of chips,
dip and beer seems to be a good thing. (Super Bowl Sunday
may be an exception – I'm still checking data on that one.)
Moderating my spending to match my income seems to be a good
thing.
But when it comes to the things that make life worth-while,
I hate moderation! Why would I settle for a "little"
happiness when the world seems designed to fill my life with
joy?! Why would I work like a slave, when wealth and fun and
freedom and love are all around me? Sure, I work to earn
money (and to make my unique contribution), but I'd much
rather practice "moderation" in work and "let her rip" when
it comes to joy and personal development!
I don't believe in "moderation in all things." Be very, very
careful about the things you "practice in moderation!"
Similarly, trying to make life "perfect" is a trap. Very few
things in life are "perfect" because life is always
changing. If it was perfect a moment ago, it may already be
deteriorating or evolving into something new and better.
Perhaps my tastes have changed and I'm no longer satisfied.
Very few things in life are "perfect," and certainly not for
very long.
More importantly, since we aren't perfect, very few of the
things we do are perfect. There's a wonderful quote about
Howard Hughes that for all his genius and wealth and
determination, "he sought a perfection that assured
failure."
Don't do that to yourself! It doesn't work out well.
Instead, strive for excellence. Strive for a GREAT life, not
a perfect one. Trouble happens. Mistakes happen. Bad luck
and misfortune, and yes, evil raises its head and tragedy
happens, but good things happen, too. Excellence and wisdom,
love and joy never go out of style. We never outgrow our
desire for celebration, achievement, personal growth and
learning.
I am totally convinced it is possible to live a World Class
Life(tm)! In fact, I believe it is the MINIMUM we should
expect of ourselves. Who would choose to live a mediocre
life? Who would choose to develop only part of their
potential, to use only some of their talent or a bit of
their creativity? No one would do that!
You can and should strive for excellence--for a life that is
nothing less than "World Class" in all things.
Quotes of the Week
"You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm." -- Colette
"And the trouble is, if you don't risk anything, you risk
even more." -- Erica Jong
"We would worry less about what others think of us if we
realized how seldom they do." -- Ethel Barrett
"Fun is about as good a habit as there is." -- Jimmy Buffett
in. They are supposed to lead to the "good life" but I don't
think they work. The first is "all things in moderation" and
the second is the quest for "perfection."
Regarding moderation, I much prefer the wonderful quote from
May West that "too much of a good thing is just right." What
a great attitude!
I deserve LOTS of great things in my life! I deserve all the
health, joy, love, great memories, passion and fulfillment I
can get!
Now, I admit, I have noticed that moderation in some things
is a good thing. Moderation in drinking, for instance, seems
to reduce hangovers, accidents, addiction, and all sorts of
embarrassing moments. Moderating my consumption of chips,
dip and beer seems to be a good thing. (Super Bowl Sunday
may be an exception – I'm still checking data on that one.)
Moderating my spending to match my income seems to be a good
thing.
But when it comes to the things that make life worth-while,
I hate moderation! Why would I settle for a "little"
happiness when the world seems designed to fill my life with
joy?! Why would I work like a slave, when wealth and fun and
freedom and love are all around me? Sure, I work to earn
money (and to make my unique contribution), but I'd much
rather practice "moderation" in work and "let her rip" when
it comes to joy and personal development!
I don't believe in "moderation in all things." Be very, very
careful about the things you "practice in moderation!"
Similarly, trying to make life "perfect" is a trap. Very few
things in life are "perfect" because life is always
changing. If it was perfect a moment ago, it may already be
deteriorating or evolving into something new and better.
Perhaps my tastes have changed and I'm no longer satisfied.
Very few things in life are "perfect," and certainly not for
very long.
More importantly, since we aren't perfect, very few of the
things we do are perfect. There's a wonderful quote about
Howard Hughes that for all his genius and wealth and
determination, "he sought a perfection that assured
failure."
Don't do that to yourself! It doesn't work out well.
Instead, strive for excellence. Strive for a GREAT life, not
a perfect one. Trouble happens. Mistakes happen. Bad luck
and misfortune, and yes, evil raises its head and tragedy
happens, but good things happen, too. Excellence and wisdom,
love and joy never go out of style. We never outgrow our
desire for celebration, achievement, personal growth and
learning.
I am totally convinced it is possible to live a World Class
Life(tm)! In fact, I believe it is the MINIMUM we should
expect of ourselves. Who would choose to live a mediocre
life? Who would choose to develop only part of their
potential, to use only some of their talent or a bit of
their creativity? No one would do that!
You can and should strive for excellence--for a life that is
nothing less than "World Class" in all things.
Quotes of the Week
"You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm." -- Colette
"And the trouble is, if you don't risk anything, you risk
even more." -- Erica Jong
"We would worry less about what others think of us if we
realized how seldom they do." -- Ethel Barrett
"Fun is about as good a habit as there is." -- Jimmy Buffett
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
A VITAL TOOL FOR YOUR BUSINESS'S WEBSITE
Ready to grow your business, network, share and communicate ideas? Giving persuasive and powerful marketing webinars is one of the fastest ways to let clients and prospects know more about why they should do business with you.
Today's buyer is looking for extra value, extra learning and extra motivation. Where can they find all those extras? In targeted webinar events.
But, what if you're not technical, hate virtual meetings and don't have a clue how to communicate effectively online? No worries.
Follow these 6-steps to get started right away.
1. Speak Directly To Your Customers
Create a compelling headline for your webinar.
Look for emotional connection so the value is instantly clear to anyone who is looking for your type of knowledge or expertise.
Headlines and titles act just like a magnet. Great titles pull in attendees and can help your webinar go from a 'ho-hum' option to a 'got to be there' action learning event.
2. Plan A Singularly Powerful Story
What's the key idea and compelling story of your webinar?
When building and structuring your plan, focus on the one important idea you want people to take away.
Just one? Yup!
In today's insanely saturated information landscape, people will love a single idea, a life-changing insight, and a compelling simple story. One key idea is your best bet. Use this to structure a memorable message for your marketing, sales or training webinar.
3. Put PowerPoint on a Diet
Don't listen to the experts who tell you more is better.
More slides are not better. Especially for communicating effectively in virtual presentations and webinars. Look for ways to reduce the number of slides. One of the fastest ways to do this is to imagine reducing the time of your virtual event. If you have 60 minutes, plan your slides as if you only had 30. Reduce the number of slides. Next, plan for 15 minutes. Repeat.
You get the idea.
4. Show Persuasive Visuals with PowerPoint and Whiteboards
Slides are not your only option.
Whiteboards are a quick way to add interaction and liveliness to virtual meetings. Check with your virtual meeting provider to determine which whiteboard options are part of the package.
Consider using a traditional dry erase board and projecting the sketches with a video camera. This adds variety and invites a more informal conversational style into your webinar.
If you aren't sure how to present effectively using whiteboards, take a whiteboard skills webinar. 5. Resist Temptation To Show 'One More Thing'
Keep this in mind: your audience has not seen your presentation or webinar before. They aren't familiar with your content, topic or expertise. They haven't been slaving over the story, pictures and delivery the way you have.
Therefore, resist the ever-present urge to add in one more thing. They are most likely overloaded! This is a very important point to be successful in webinars.
Most often subject matter experts forget that one more feature in a demo, one more slide, one more chart are not truly adding more value. If you think this could be a problem for you, ask a colleague to sit in on your webinar and give you candid feedback.
6. Ask For Group Feedback
Presenting virtually is an iterative process.
Experiment. Try out different strategies. Ask for feedback. Adjust. Repeat.
Not everything you try will be an instant success. However, clients and prospects will appreciate your commitment and involvement. Focus on being well prepared, clear on objectives and deliver true value. Ask for and listen to feedback.
Let participants know how you have altered the structure based on their input. This keeps the lines of communication open and recognized the contribution of individual attendees.
Educational webinars are a powerful way to grow your business, increase value for your customers and share your unique expertise with prospects and clients. Now is the time to add this dynamic communication tool and grow your business.
Today's buyer is looking for extra value, extra learning and extra motivation. Where can they find all those extras? In targeted webinar events.
But, what if you're not technical, hate virtual meetings and don't have a clue how to communicate effectively online? No worries.
Follow these 6-steps to get started right away.
1. Speak Directly To Your Customers
Create a compelling headline for your webinar.
Look for emotional connection so the value is instantly clear to anyone who is looking for your type of knowledge or expertise.
Headlines and titles act just like a magnet. Great titles pull in attendees and can help your webinar go from a 'ho-hum' option to a 'got to be there' action learning event.
2. Plan A Singularly Powerful Story
What's the key idea and compelling story of your webinar?
When building and structuring your plan, focus on the one important idea you want people to take away.
Just one? Yup!
In today's insanely saturated information landscape, people will love a single idea, a life-changing insight, and a compelling simple story. One key idea is your best bet. Use this to structure a memorable message for your marketing, sales or training webinar.
3. Put PowerPoint on a Diet
Don't listen to the experts who tell you more is better.
More slides are not better. Especially for communicating effectively in virtual presentations and webinars. Look for ways to reduce the number of slides. One of the fastest ways to do this is to imagine reducing the time of your virtual event. If you have 60 minutes, plan your slides as if you only had 30. Reduce the number of slides. Next, plan for 15 minutes. Repeat.
You get the idea.
4. Show Persuasive Visuals with PowerPoint and Whiteboards
Slides are not your only option.
Whiteboards are a quick way to add interaction and liveliness to virtual meetings. Check with your virtual meeting provider to determine which whiteboard options are part of the package.
Consider using a traditional dry erase board and projecting the sketches with a video camera. This adds variety and invites a more informal conversational style into your webinar.
If you aren't sure how to present effectively using whiteboards, take a whiteboard skills webinar. 5. Resist Temptation To Show 'One More Thing'
Keep this in mind: your audience has not seen your presentation or webinar before. They aren't familiar with your content, topic or expertise. They haven't been slaving over the story, pictures and delivery the way you have.
Therefore, resist the ever-present urge to add in one more thing. They are most likely overloaded! This is a very important point to be successful in webinars.
Most often subject matter experts forget that one more feature in a demo, one more slide, one more chart are not truly adding more value. If you think this could be a problem for you, ask a colleague to sit in on your webinar and give you candid feedback.
6. Ask For Group Feedback
Presenting virtually is an iterative process.
Experiment. Try out different strategies. Ask for feedback. Adjust. Repeat.
Not everything you try will be an instant success. However, clients and prospects will appreciate your commitment and involvement. Focus on being well prepared, clear on objectives and deliver true value. Ask for and listen to feedback.
Let participants know how you have altered the structure based on their input. This keeps the lines of communication open and recognized the contribution of individual attendees.
Educational webinars are a powerful way to grow your business, increase value for your customers and share your unique expertise with prospects and clients. Now is the time to add this dynamic communication tool and grow your business.
Monday, August 15, 2011
LOVE YOUR WORK
A long time ago, I heard Jim Rohn talk about the necessity
to "love your work, every single day." I've never forgotten
that.
Jim was wise enough to make the distinction about "liking"
your work every day. Very few of us are fortunate enough to
enjoy every moment of every day on the job. Things go wrong.
People get cranky. Sometimes, stress and tension and anxiety
are life's way of telling us we are in the wrong line of
work, or it's time to make some changes.
But those daily ups and downs are not the same thing as
"loving" your work.
I recently got an email from a friend who noted that his 13-
year old son can be "a handful, but we don't love him
because it's easy, we love him because we do." Your
relationship with your career should be something like that.
Ultimately, your financial success is the result of "loving"
your work--nurturing it over time, going the extra mile,
doing it right whether anyone is watching or not. Love means
taking care of the details. Loving your work means investing
in your customers, investing in tools and skills and
resources. Ultimately, loving your work means investing in
your own future.
Whatever your job, profession, or business, love and sustain
it. Care for it and give it every chance to grow. There is
no other path to ultimate, long-term success.
to "love your work, every single day." I've never forgotten
that.
Jim was wise enough to make the distinction about "liking"
your work every day. Very few of us are fortunate enough to
enjoy every moment of every day on the job. Things go wrong.
People get cranky. Sometimes, stress and tension and anxiety
are life's way of telling us we are in the wrong line of
work, or it's time to make some changes.
But those daily ups and downs are not the same thing as
"loving" your work.
I recently got an email from a friend who noted that his 13-
year old son can be "a handful, but we don't love him
because it's easy, we love him because we do." Your
relationship with your career should be something like that.
Ultimately, your financial success is the result of "loving"
your work--nurturing it over time, going the extra mile,
doing it right whether anyone is watching or not. Love means
taking care of the details. Loving your work means investing
in your customers, investing in tools and skills and
resources. Ultimately, loving your work means investing in
your own future.
Whatever your job, profession, or business, love and sustain
it. Care for it and give it every chance to grow. There is
no other path to ultimate, long-term success.
Friday, August 12, 2011
INCOME STREAMS
It is a common say today that there is no job security whatsoever, that is
true worldwide. The civilized countries of the world are not left out.
They all downsize. So what's the hope of an average employee who only
keeps the 9 to 5 grind as the only source of income?
The first objective for such people is to get out of rat race and move
onto financial fast track, then to achieve their dream while they're
on financial fast track.
But before you talk about financial fast track, how do you get out of
rat race first?
To get out of rat race, you must have equal or more passive income
than your monthly expenses.
In other words, your passive income must be enough to cover your
monthly expenses before you can move onto financial fast track.
Like everyone else, you have your own profession. You have a job and
you receive paycheck at a fixed time interval. It's what you do
differently that determines how fast you get out of rat race.
But how do you accumulate enough passive income to get out from rat race?
There are only two ways to achieve this; Robert Kiyosaki in his book
Rich Dad Poor Dad has pointed out that we live in an age where we must
ensure that we have Multiple Sources of Income. He correctly
identified four ways of earning money:
1. Employment (i.e. a normal traditional 'job')
2. Self Employment (working for yourself)
3. Business (having a 'system' that makes money)
4. Investment (earning money of accumulated capital)
Kiyosaki argues that an individual seeking financial freedom should try to
position himself in both nos. (3) and (4), which is exactly what the rich
do - they either own a business (its management can be outsourced at a
cost
to a professional manager), or invest surplus capital in other people's
business - and both these do not require an individual to work (i.e. trade
time for money).
The point is basically to be free from being wholly dependent of an
employer.
A wise man does not work for money, but lets money work for him.
So to get out of rat race, the trick is to accumulate as many assets
as possible by investing in money opportunities that appear around you.
You know very clearly what asset is and what liability is. Once you
know the difference, you focus on accumulating assets rather than
liabilities.
The feeling is great when you are able to get out of rat race and move
onto financial fast track. No words can describe my feelings when I
first got out of rat race.
Why?
When you're on financial fast track, money is no problem as it will
come regardless of whether you work or not. You do not depend on a job
to receive your money anymore. You are totally free to do what you love.
So its time to forget the golden watch and the dream of easy sweet
retirement at 65.
true worldwide. The civilized countries of the world are not left out.
They all downsize. So what's the hope of an average employee who only
keeps the 9 to 5 grind as the only source of income?
The first objective for such people is to get out of rat race and move
onto financial fast track, then to achieve their dream while they're
on financial fast track.
But before you talk about financial fast track, how do you get out of
rat race first?
To get out of rat race, you must have equal or more passive income
than your monthly expenses.
In other words, your passive income must be enough to cover your
monthly expenses before you can move onto financial fast track.
Like everyone else, you have your own profession. You have a job and
you receive paycheck at a fixed time interval. It's what you do
differently that determines how fast you get out of rat race.
But how do you accumulate enough passive income to get out from rat race?
There are only two ways to achieve this; Robert Kiyosaki in his book
Rich Dad Poor Dad has pointed out that we live in an age where we must
ensure that we have Multiple Sources of Income. He correctly
identified four ways of earning money:
1. Employment (i.e. a normal traditional 'job')
2. Self Employment (working for yourself)
3. Business (having a 'system' that makes money)
4. Investment (earning money of accumulated capital)
Kiyosaki argues that an individual seeking financial freedom should try to
position himself in both nos. (3) and (4), which is exactly what the rich
do - they either own a business (its management can be outsourced at a
cost
to a professional manager), or invest surplus capital in other people's
business - and both these do not require an individual to work (i.e. trade
time for money).
The point is basically to be free from being wholly dependent of an
employer.
A wise man does not work for money, but lets money work for him.
So to get out of rat race, the trick is to accumulate as many assets
as possible by investing in money opportunities that appear around you.
You know very clearly what asset is and what liability is. Once you
know the difference, you focus on accumulating assets rather than
liabilities.
The feeling is great when you are able to get out of rat race and move
onto financial fast track. No words can describe my feelings when I
first got out of rat race.
Why?
When you're on financial fast track, money is no problem as it will
come regardless of whether you work or not. You do not depend on a job
to receive your money anymore. You are totally free to do what you love.
So its time to forget the golden watch and the dream of easy sweet
retirement at 65.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
CHARACTER TRAITS OF EXTRAORDINARY LEADERS
The success of every organization rests on the foundation of leadership. A group of people, whether a business, organization, family or society, can only go as far as leadership will take it.
Some people do not believe that they are leaders or even that they can be a leader. I believe that every person is a leader in at least one situation.
Maybe you aren't a leader at work but you are in your family or as the soccer coach of the little league team. Somewhere you are leading. That brings me to my final point before today's specific topic. Here is my working definition of leadership: INFLUENCE. Nothing more, nothing less. So as you are reading this understand that I am giving you these thoughts in order to help you influence as many people and in the most effective way possible!
When people make a decision (either consciously or unconsciously) to follow your leadership, they do it primarily because of one of two things: Your Character or your Skills. They want to know if you are the kind of person they want to follow and if you have the skills to take them further. Yes, there are other variables but these are the bulk of the matter. This week we focus on the kind of character that causes people to follow your leadership.
1. Integrity. Integrity is that you do what you say you will. You are trust worthy. People can rely on you. You keep your promises. The one thing that will most keep people from following you is if they can't know for sure if you will actually take them where you say you will. Are you known as a person of integrity? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
2. Optimistic. People don't want to follow others who think the future is bad! They want to follow those who can see the future and let them know that there is a better place and that they can get them there! Do you see the cup as half empty? Then you are a pessimist. Do you see it as half full? Then you are an optimist. Do you see it as totally full - half air and half water? Then you are a Super Optimist! Are you known as an optimist? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
3. Embraces Change. Leaders are the ones who will see the need for change and willingly embrace it. Followers will at first desire to stay where they are. Leaders need to see the benefits of change and communicate them to followers. If you don't change, you won't grow! Are you known as a person who embraces change? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
4. Risk Taker. Whenever we try something new, we are taking a risk. That is part of growing though and it is imperative. Most people are risk averse. Not the leader! They calculate the risk and what is to be gained from taking the risk. Then they communicate that to the followers and away they go to a better tomorrow! Are you known as a person who is willing to take risks? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
5. Tenacious. The tendency of the follower is to quit when the going gets tough. Two or three tries and their motto becomes "If at first you don't succeed, give up and try something else." Not the leader! They know what good lies beyond this brick wall and they will go and get it. Then they will bring others with them! Are you known as a person who is tenacious? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
6. Catalytic. A leader is ultimately one who gets people going. They are able to move others out of their comfort zone and on toward the goal! They can raise the passion, enthusiasm and the ACTION of those who would follow. Are you known as a catalyst? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
7. Dedicated/Committed. Followers want people who are more devoted and committed then themselves. At the first sign of lack of commitment, followers scatter for the doors. If the leader sees the end and is bailing out, they better get out first. Followers follow those who will stick it out because they see the importance of the task and the goal. Are you known as a person who is committed and devoted to the goal? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
Some people do not believe that they are leaders or even that they can be a leader. I believe that every person is a leader in at least one situation.
Maybe you aren't a leader at work but you are in your family or as the soccer coach of the little league team. Somewhere you are leading. That brings me to my final point before today's specific topic. Here is my working definition of leadership: INFLUENCE. Nothing more, nothing less. So as you are reading this understand that I am giving you these thoughts in order to help you influence as many people and in the most effective way possible!
When people make a decision (either consciously or unconsciously) to follow your leadership, they do it primarily because of one of two things: Your Character or your Skills. They want to know if you are the kind of person they want to follow and if you have the skills to take them further. Yes, there are other variables but these are the bulk of the matter. This week we focus on the kind of character that causes people to follow your leadership.
1. Integrity. Integrity is that you do what you say you will. You are trust worthy. People can rely on you. You keep your promises. The one thing that will most keep people from following you is if they can't know for sure if you will actually take them where you say you will. Are you known as a person of integrity? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
2. Optimistic. People don't want to follow others who think the future is bad! They want to follow those who can see the future and let them know that there is a better place and that they can get them there! Do you see the cup as half empty? Then you are a pessimist. Do you see it as half full? Then you are an optimist. Do you see it as totally full - half air and half water? Then you are a Super Optimist! Are you known as an optimist? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
3. Embraces Change. Leaders are the ones who will see the need for change and willingly embrace it. Followers will at first desire to stay where they are. Leaders need to see the benefits of change and communicate them to followers. If you don't change, you won't grow! Are you known as a person who embraces change? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
4. Risk Taker. Whenever we try something new, we are taking a risk. That is part of growing though and it is imperative. Most people are risk averse. Not the leader! They calculate the risk and what is to be gained from taking the risk. Then they communicate that to the followers and away they go to a better tomorrow! Are you known as a person who is willing to take risks? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
5. Tenacious. The tendency of the follower is to quit when the going gets tough. Two or three tries and their motto becomes "If at first you don't succeed, give up and try something else." Not the leader! They know what good lies beyond this brick wall and they will go and get it. Then they will bring others with them! Are you known as a person who is tenacious? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
6. Catalytic. A leader is ultimately one who gets people going. They are able to move others out of their comfort zone and on toward the goal! They can raise the passion, enthusiasm and the ACTION of those who would follow. Are you known as a catalyst? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
7. Dedicated/Committed. Followers want people who are more devoted and committed then themselves. At the first sign of lack of commitment, followers scatter for the doors. If the leader sees the end and is bailing out, they better get out first. Followers follow those who will stick it out because they see the importance of the task and the goal. Are you known as a person who is committed and devoted to the goal? If so, you will become an Extraordinary Leader!
Monday, August 8, 2011
THE LAW OF CLARITY
Clarity accounts for probably 80% of success and happiness. Lack of clarity is probably more responsible for frustration and underachievement than any other single factor. That's why we say that "Success is goals, and all else is commentary." People with clear, written goals, accomplish far more in a shorter period of time than people without them could ever imagine. This is true everywhere and under all circumstances.
The Three Keys to High Achievement
You could even say that the three keys to high achievement are, "Clarity, Clarity, Clarity," with regard to your goals. Your success in life will be largely determined by how clear you are about what it is you really, really want.
Write and Rewrite Your Goals
The more you write and rewrite your goals and the more you think about them, the clearer you will become about them. The clearer you are about what you want, the more likely you are to do more and more of the things that are consistent with achieving them. Meanwhile, you will do fewer and fewer of the things that don't help to get the things you really want.
The Seven Step Process for Achieving Goals
Here, once more, is the simple, seven-step process that you can use to achieve your goals faster and easier than ever before.
First, decide exactly what you want in each area of your life. Be specific!
Second, write it down, clearly and in detail;
Third, set a specific deadline. If it is a large goal, break it down into sub-deadlines and write them down in order;
Fourth, make a list of everything you can think of that you are going to have to do to achieve your goal. As you think of new items, add them to your list;
Fifth, organize the items on your list into a plan by placing them in the proper sequence and priority;
Sixth, take action immediately on the most important thing you can do on your plan. This is very important!
Seventh, do something every day that moves you toward the attainment of one or more of your important goals. Maintain the momentum!
Join the Top 3%
Fewer than three percent of adults have written goals and plans that they work on every single day. When you sit down and write out your goals, you move yourself into the top 3% of people in our society. And you will soon start to get the same results that they do.
Review Your Goals Daily
Study and review your goals every day to be sure they are still your most important goals. You will find yourself adding goals to your list as time passes. You will also find yourself deleting goals that are no longer as important as you once thought. Whatever your goals are, plan them out thoroughly, on paper, and work on them every single day. This is the key to peak performance and maximum achievement.
Action Exercises
Here is how you can apply this law immediately:
First, make a list of ten goals that you would like to achieve in the coming year. Write them down in the present tense, as though a year has passed and you have already accomplished them.
Second, from your list of ten goals, ask yourself, "What one goal, if I were to accomplish it, would have the greatest positive impact on my life?" Whatever it is, put a circle around this goal and move it to a separate sheet of paper.
Third, practice the seven-step method described above on this goal. Set a deadline, make a plan, and put it into action and work on it every day. Make this goal your major definite purpose for the weeks and months ahead.
Get ready for some amazing changes in your life.
The Three Keys to High Achievement
You could even say that the three keys to high achievement are, "Clarity, Clarity, Clarity," with regard to your goals. Your success in life will be largely determined by how clear you are about what it is you really, really want.
Write and Rewrite Your Goals
The more you write and rewrite your goals and the more you think about them, the clearer you will become about them. The clearer you are about what you want, the more likely you are to do more and more of the things that are consistent with achieving them. Meanwhile, you will do fewer and fewer of the things that don't help to get the things you really want.
The Seven Step Process for Achieving Goals
Here, once more, is the simple, seven-step process that you can use to achieve your goals faster and easier than ever before.
First, decide exactly what you want in each area of your life. Be specific!
Second, write it down, clearly and in detail;
Third, set a specific deadline. If it is a large goal, break it down into sub-deadlines and write them down in order;
Fourth, make a list of everything you can think of that you are going to have to do to achieve your goal. As you think of new items, add them to your list;
Fifth, organize the items on your list into a plan by placing them in the proper sequence and priority;
Sixth, take action immediately on the most important thing you can do on your plan. This is very important!
Seventh, do something every day that moves you toward the attainment of one or more of your important goals. Maintain the momentum!
Join the Top 3%
Fewer than three percent of adults have written goals and plans that they work on every single day. When you sit down and write out your goals, you move yourself into the top 3% of people in our society. And you will soon start to get the same results that they do.
Review Your Goals Daily
Study and review your goals every day to be sure they are still your most important goals. You will find yourself adding goals to your list as time passes. You will also find yourself deleting goals that are no longer as important as you once thought. Whatever your goals are, plan them out thoroughly, on paper, and work on them every single day. This is the key to peak performance and maximum achievement.
Action Exercises
Here is how you can apply this law immediately:
First, make a list of ten goals that you would like to achieve in the coming year. Write them down in the present tense, as though a year has passed and you have already accomplished them.
Second, from your list of ten goals, ask yourself, "What one goal, if I were to accomplish it, would have the greatest positive impact on my life?" Whatever it is, put a circle around this goal and move it to a separate sheet of paper.
Third, practice the seven-step method described above on this goal. Set a deadline, make a plan, and put it into action and work on it every day. Make this goal your major definite purpose for the weeks and months ahead.
Get ready for some amazing changes in your life.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
WHEN A MEETING IS CUT SHORT
While we like to think that our scheduled time with Buying Influences is their top priority for the day, the reality is that an untold number of "fires" or urgent activities may cut short your scheduled time.
You may learn about an abbreviation a few days, hours, or minutes before your meeting, possibly even during the meeting, so it pays to be prepared for this situation.
To maximize shortened meetings, be armed with at least the following every time you come to a scheduled call:
1. Confirmation questions
At the start of the conversation, ask a confirmation question that addresses the top priority for this Buying Influence. This provides him information he needs to understand or to be reminded exactly why he agreed to meet with you in the first place. Make sure nothing has changed since you last talked. This will lead you to use the remaining dialogue productively.
2. Top Takeaways
Realizing that you now only have time to ask a couple of questions instead of addressing a number of areas that you wanted new information on, what are the 2-3 top takeaways that you need to get from this limited discussion? Make sure you ask them.
3. Gain Commitment
Get a commitment from this individual that will move your sales initiative forward. It may be a new meeting in the very near future to continue the conversation, or agree to present your proposal to the planning board this coming Friday, for example.
It’s often useful to confirm the timing of your meeting at the beginning of the conversation as well as the time limit. Ask questions like, “Is this still a convenient time for you to give me half an hour?” By setting the expectations of how much time he needs to spend with you, you avoid the unfortunate situation of being cut midstream.
You may learn about an abbreviation a few days, hours, or minutes before your meeting, possibly even during the meeting, so it pays to be prepared for this situation.
To maximize shortened meetings, be armed with at least the following every time you come to a scheduled call:
1. Confirmation questions
At the start of the conversation, ask a confirmation question that addresses the top priority for this Buying Influence. This provides him information he needs to understand or to be reminded exactly why he agreed to meet with you in the first place. Make sure nothing has changed since you last talked. This will lead you to use the remaining dialogue productively.
2. Top Takeaways
Realizing that you now only have time to ask a couple of questions instead of addressing a number of areas that you wanted new information on, what are the 2-3 top takeaways that you need to get from this limited discussion? Make sure you ask them.
3. Gain Commitment
Get a commitment from this individual that will move your sales initiative forward. It may be a new meeting in the very near future to continue the conversation, or agree to present your proposal to the planning board this coming Friday, for example.
It’s often useful to confirm the timing of your meeting at the beginning of the conversation as well as the time limit. Ask questions like, “Is this still a convenient time for you to give me half an hour?” By setting the expectations of how much time he needs to spend with you, you avoid the unfortunate situation of being cut midstream.
Monday, August 1, 2011
USE BETTER STRATEGIES FOR BETTER RESULT
As long-time subscribers know, I am passionate about helping
people create the lives they truly want. I am not
necessarily concerned that we all get rich or drive fancy
cars, because we each have our own definitions of success.
(Think how crowded it would be if we all lived on the same
beach!)
But I am passionate about developing tools and systems that
empower thousands of people to enjoy the life they truly
want. Obviously, a tough economy may make success more
difficult, but that only emphasizes the need for smart
strategies and elegant solutions. Even in tough times, some
people achieve magnificent outcomes! And so can you.
Very few people define success in terms that are rare or
wildly unusual. Most of us define success in terms that are
recognizable to thousands of our friends and neighbors. We
want healthy families and enough money to be comfortable and
secure. We want to travel or perhaps have a second home in
the country. We want happiness, security, and peace of mind.
Some people define success as having their own business, or
leaving a legacy.
But, and this is vital, most of us want things that other
people have achieved before! And if they have already done
it, we can learn from them, copy their methods, and achieve
similar results.
Most of us want the kinds of success that thousands of other
people have already achieved, and we are working really,
really hard, and yet too many of us are no closer to "the
good life" today than we were a year ago. That is terribly
frustrating and unacceptable!
In most cases, the problem is that we are not using smart
strategies. We are working very hard, but not making
progress. Many of us are wasting our time, talent and energy
on things of secondary importance. We are not focused and we
are not getting the results we deserve. We can do better!
Highly successful people work from a "play book." They begin
by clarifying precisely what they want. Then they study the
problems, get good advice, and develop a plan. They create a
road-map, and follow it to their ultimate goal. They have a
budget, a schedule, good teachers (or coaches) and support
people. They know what their most important tasks are, what
they will focus on next week, and (assuming there are no
major revisions) they can tell you where they will be a year
from now.
If your definition of "the good life" is something other
people have already achieved, and you are not making
adequate progress, I encourage you to review and (if
necessary) revise your strategies.
Highly successful people do certain things, and for the most
part, they are simple, ordinary things that we can all copy.
Here's a short list:
1. They have the courage to choose specific, concrete
goals. They know they cannot do everything, so they make
choices. If necessary, hard choices.
2. They focus on personal development first, external
achievement second. They know that to have more, they must
first become more.
3. They learn from experts. They study and use techniques
that have worked for others, even if at first they seem
expensive or uncomfortable.
4. They take time to plan and they follow their plan to
completion. They are focused, disciplined and determined. If
they aren't getting the results they anticipated, they
devise a better plan.
5. They work hard at working smart. They are not easily
distracted and they never give up.
We live in the most amazing time in history, when you can
achieve pretty much anything you want. The major requirement
is that you have a good plan and be willing to pay the
price. If you are not making the progress you desire,
double-check the quality of your planning. Get expert
advice. Invest in training. Get a coach. And then persist
until you reach your goal.
Quotes of the Week
"Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of
things which matter least." -- Goethe
"Two little words that can make the difference: START NOW." -- Mary C. Crowley
"The reason so many people never get anywhere in life is
because when opportunity knocks, they are out in the
backyard looking for four-leaf clovers." -- Walter Chrysler
"What gets measured, gets done." -- Edward Deming
people create the lives they truly want. I am not
necessarily concerned that we all get rich or drive fancy
cars, because we each have our own definitions of success.
(Think how crowded it would be if we all lived on the same
beach!)
But I am passionate about developing tools and systems that
empower thousands of people to enjoy the life they truly
want. Obviously, a tough economy may make success more
difficult, but that only emphasizes the need for smart
strategies and elegant solutions. Even in tough times, some
people achieve magnificent outcomes! And so can you.
Very few people define success in terms that are rare or
wildly unusual. Most of us define success in terms that are
recognizable to thousands of our friends and neighbors. We
want healthy families and enough money to be comfortable and
secure. We want to travel or perhaps have a second home in
the country. We want happiness, security, and peace of mind.
Some people define success as having their own business, or
leaving a legacy.
But, and this is vital, most of us want things that other
people have achieved before! And if they have already done
it, we can learn from them, copy their methods, and achieve
similar results.
Most of us want the kinds of success that thousands of other
people have already achieved, and we are working really,
really hard, and yet too many of us are no closer to "the
good life" today than we were a year ago. That is terribly
frustrating and unacceptable!
In most cases, the problem is that we are not using smart
strategies. We are working very hard, but not making
progress. Many of us are wasting our time, talent and energy
on things of secondary importance. We are not focused and we
are not getting the results we deserve. We can do better!
Highly successful people work from a "play book." They begin
by clarifying precisely what they want. Then they study the
problems, get good advice, and develop a plan. They create a
road-map, and follow it to their ultimate goal. They have a
budget, a schedule, good teachers (or coaches) and support
people. They know what their most important tasks are, what
they will focus on next week, and (assuming there are no
major revisions) they can tell you where they will be a year
from now.
If your definition of "the good life" is something other
people have already achieved, and you are not making
adequate progress, I encourage you to review and (if
necessary) revise your strategies.
Highly successful people do certain things, and for the most
part, they are simple, ordinary things that we can all copy.
Here's a short list:
1. They have the courage to choose specific, concrete
goals. They know they cannot do everything, so they make
choices. If necessary, hard choices.
2. They focus on personal development first, external
achievement second. They know that to have more, they must
first become more.
3. They learn from experts. They study and use techniques
that have worked for others, even if at first they seem
expensive or uncomfortable.
4. They take time to plan and they follow their plan to
completion. They are focused, disciplined and determined. If
they aren't getting the results they anticipated, they
devise a better plan.
5. They work hard at working smart. They are not easily
distracted and they never give up.
We live in the most amazing time in history, when you can
achieve pretty much anything you want. The major requirement
is that you have a good plan and be willing to pay the
price. If you are not making the progress you desire,
double-check the quality of your planning. Get expert
advice. Invest in training. Get a coach. And then persist
until you reach your goal.
Quotes of the Week
"Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of
things which matter least." -- Goethe
"Two little words that can make the difference: START NOW." -- Mary C. Crowley
"The reason so many people never get anywhere in life is
because when opportunity knocks, they are out in the
backyard looking for four-leaf clovers." -- Walter Chrysler
"What gets measured, gets done." -- Edward Deming
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