When You're Ready to SOAR

2009-02-21T06:54:00.001-07:00

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

ee cummings

2008-10-09T06:56:00.000-06:00

When Paul Newman died, I read this story from the last interview Barbara Walters had with him in fall 2007.

Just had to share it because I'm known for telling people how old I feel, not how old I am chronologically. I used to swap ages with my brother, and then he got older than I wanted to be.

Enjoy your day! I am!

Late in the interview, when Walters asked Newman for his thoughts on longevity and mortality, he related a story about his mother.

"My mother on her death bed said, 'Paul, you have to excuse me, I've been lying all these years, I'm not 83, I'm 87.'" Newman told Walters. "And when we took her back to Cleveland, to be buried next to my father, her sister was there.

"And I said, 'You know, mother said that she had been lying all these years, and that she wasn't 83, that she was 87.'

"And her sister said, 'Baloney, she was 93."

Busy or Running?

2008-09-29T07:53:00.003-06:00

It's pretty obvious to everyone around me that I'm busy. I've been putting in a lot of hours with my clients. I've been busy exploring ideas to expand my business.

Lately, I've even been telling people about how I'm burning the candles at both ends and taking almost all weekend to recover from the stress. And, when I have a lot of things scheduled on my weekends, it's even worse because I don't have any "down" time to relax.

These statements do NOT describe how I prefer to live my life!

Last night I asked myself, "Why?" to clarify why I'm doing what I'm doing.

If you're not familiar with the 5 Why's Exercise - here's my version

Ask yourself a question.
Whatever the answer is, ask Why again
Whatever that answer is, ask Why again
When your insides say "AHA!" - that's when you ask "okay, that's interesting. So, what am I going to do now?"

Here's my condensed conversation from last night
Why are you staying so busy? Because I don't want to be at home

Why don't you want to be at home? Because it's quiet and I don't know what to do with myself without a TV

Why did you give up your TV? Because TV had become a crutch to escape my life

Why do you want to escape your life? Because I'm unhappy

Why are you unhappy? Because my current life does not match what I wanted for myself

ah... so what am I going to do about it?

Vision for Catalyst for Success

2008-09-04T08:45:00.005-06:00

This month I have been participating in the Ladies Who Launch intensive incubator. The four-week program is designed for you and 9 women to work on a project you bring to the incubator. The result is a push towards your future.

Here's the vision I created for my business as a result of this month's activities....

Entrepreneur magazine has just published its profile of ultra-successful Lucinda Naia with Catalyst for Success. She continues to expand her vision on how to make a difference for individuals and businesses throughout the world. Catalyst for Success remains dedicated to solving business process issues, maximizing client loyalty, and improving employee relationships. The company has grown to incorporate three divisions: SOAR Consulting, HeartSparks, and BizSparks.

SOAR Consulting provides consulting services to solve business process issues, create dynamic work environments for employees, and maximize client loyalty. Consulting services include business assessments, in-person and tele-conference seminars, and motivational speaking. HeartSparks offers inspirational and motivational products for individuals. Current designs include Beachy, Set sail, heartfull, baby blessed, family moon, and hope blooms. BizSparks offers business-related products including CD’s, DVD’s, and self-study training. There are natural cross-over activities between the three divisions, and that was the focus of the Entrepreneur profile.

This summer Catalyst for Success announces the opening of its ceramic production facility in Guatemala. Valley adventurer Lucinda Naia established the facility with two goals in mind. She wanted to provide employment opportunities for women in Guatemala and create extraordinary inspirational/motivational coffee mugs. “What better way to create a natural extension of the delicious Guatemalan coffee sold in boutique plantations throughout Guatemala,” Lucinda explained.

“After succeeding in corporate America, I was yearning to find ways to live with more passion and still succeed financially,” Lucinda explained. Income generated from SOAR Consulting created an opportunity for investment in a new industry within a developing country. Creating unique coffee mugs that also contribute to financial independence for Guatemalan women is a natural evolution of the SOAR principles under which Catalyst for Success operates:

Success is All About Relationships
Only Have Today
Always Imagine More
Ready to Rise

Lucinda went on to explain the genesis of the unique products she creates. “While working in a challenging environment, I met some girlfriends to paint pottery. One friend Mary suggested I put something inside the coffee mug, and that suggestion sparked everything.”

Lucinda created the Beachy mug to remind herself to be beachy with a light-hearted, happy go lucky attitude instead of bitchy with a “why me?” victim attitude at work. At first, she didn’t realize the potential of what she had created. “Several people commented on the mug and how great it looked, but I didn’t really think much beyond my joy with the individual mug,” Lucinda said.

While participating in a Ladies Who Launch incubator, Lucinda realized she had a rare opportunity. She could continue to live as she had been living OR she could pursue her passion as a vibrant, creative, heart-centered adventurer. She chose to live in keeping with the SOAR principles!

Today Lucinda splits her time between Arizona and Guatemala. Her children are global citizens of the world, and they look forward to the time they spend in both countries. Lucinda is happily involved with a guy who loves her and celebrates her success.

In the last two years, HeartSparks created a distinctive niche for Guatemalan souvenirs, inspirational mugs, and a patented innovation. Orders for her exceptional mugs are increasing, and she’s close to signing a license agreement with a major manufacturer for her patented coffee mug innovation.

“The United States is the largest consumer of coffee in the world, and consumes one-fifth of the world’s coffee. I’m just glad I found a unique way to tap into that consumption and contribute to an improved life for families in Guatemala. Everyone benefits, and I feel blessed.”

“Although my Spanish still needs some more practice, I’m thrilled to escape the heat in Phoenix for the lush natural beauty in Guatemala. Enjoying a more relaxed life in Guatemala allows me to create more opportunities when I return to Phoenix. It truly is the best of both worlds!”

If you're interested in more information about the Phoenix/Scottsdale incubator, you can see the calendar of events by clicking here. You can also click on the Meetup badge next to this post....

Friday Fun: Funny e-cards

2008-08-22T11:14:00.005-06:00

A friend of mine told me about this website Some E-Cards

Of course, my sense of humor around dating might not necessarily match yours.... feel free to find fun e-cards that fit your life and share....

Value of Respect by Bernie Mac

2008-08-10T09:45:00.005-06:00

Like many other people, it was a surprise to hear Bernie Mac died this weekend. As I was reading a Chicago Tribune article on his life, I saw this quote.....

"If you let people put tags on you, you'll never be able to remove them," he said. "You've got to make people respect you. Respect is bigger than dollars and cents."

I wish every teenager in America (or anyone for that matter) could understand the importance of living with respect.

Each morning you CHOOSE who you're going to be....

Choose to respect yourself and live YOUR life!

Taking Risks (aka Living Your Life)

2008-08-05T07:09:00.000-06:00

Have you ever taken a risk - either at work or in love?

Looked beyond where you are today & leaped forward
without knowing what might happen next?

Do you even think about how you make decisions?

Friends know that sometimes I think WAY too much! Over-thinking and over-analyzing have stifled some fantastic opportunities for me.

Just for today - do something spontaneously!

Take a risk.... Live your life....
Forget about the consequences and just set sail....

It's not about the money.... it's about respect

2008-08-01T10:30:00.000-06:00

I feel sorry for Brett Favre! He made a decision that he regretted, and now he's surrounded by controversy & numerous opinions about the "right" thing to do.

Seems to me that all he's ever wanted to do is play football... and now he's being offered a lot of money NOT to play football.

Unfortunately, businesses treat their employees like Ted Thompson & Green Bay's management team are treating Brett Favre. Somehow management seems to think if they throw enough money at him, he'll no longer be a problem.

Green Bay's management team has a bigger problem than just Brett Favre. They have a mindset that is detrimental to the team spirit needed to win Super Bowls.

The money isn't what matters. What matters is respecting your employees and creating a work environment in which those employees can do their best.

Personally, I hope Brett Favre gets traded to a team that respects who he is - a man who loves to play football. I hope Green Bay's general manager and coach are replaced by people who understand that success is all about relationships (and not money).

People Buy When They Like Your Story

2008-07-28T22:42:00.003-06:00

Does your business have a story? Do you have any sort of personal "hook" to connect you with your target market?

It doesn't matter how big or small a company is.

It doesn't matter if it's a product or a service.

It doesn't matter if it's a corporate decision or an individual decision.

Here's what matters....

People buy when they feel connected
to your product, service, or people.

I'm shopping for a motorcycle helmet right now. A few years ago I had a mishap with a motorcycle & I haven't been on a bike since that day. I made a decision that IF I ever got on the back of someone's bike, I'd wear my own helmet.

You would not believe how many motorcycle helmets exist! Earlier this year a friend suggested Shoei. When my brother visited me in March, we went shopping together. Nothing felt right, and I didn't buy anything.

Tonight while I was researching helmets, I found my connection. Other people may choose Arai because of the 10-year JD Power Customer Satisfaction award. For now, I'm choosing Arai because I connected with their story of comfortable quality, craftsmanship, and adventure.

I reserve the right to change my mind. I'm still not quite ready to buy because I still have to try on helmets, discuss the styles and the colors.... and I still have to find someone willing to give me a ride on the back of his bike.

Friday Fun: Photos from my trip

2008-07-25T10:36:00.000-06:00

I love being cool Aunt Lucinda!

I'm putting lipgloss on Callie (my cousin's daughter)

at my grandma's 90th birthday dinner in Kentucky

Pictures of Callie & Carson at the condo & the restaurant

Here are pictures from Wisconsin

when I visited Ferelith, Jason, Anna, & Lucas

What Memories do you Cherish?

2008-07-08T05:29:00.001-06:00

This week is going to be hectic & busy because I'm traveling to visit family & friends. Here's the quick synopsis....

Tuesday (today) is my plane/train/automobile adventure to Illinois
Thursday I'm traveling to Kentucky for my grandmother's 90th birthday on Friday
Saturday I'm catching a 7 a.m. flight to Green Bay, Wisconsin to see my closest friends and play with their kids (my niece & nephew)
Sunday I'm attending a college friend's wedding
Next Tuesday is my train/plane/automobile adventure back to Arizona

Now ask me what I'm REALLY doing this week....

I'm making memories. I'm spending time with people who love me. I'm talking and listening to people I love.

I am going to eat at a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant with my parents and chat with whoever is there at the same time. It's a small town. We're social. We talk with our neighbors and other friendly people.

I will reassure my grandma that it's her birthday, she does know the people who are with her, we are her family, and we love her. I will probably cry when I leave her because I don't know how much longer she'll be with us.

I will play with children, read to them, laugh at their jokes, and give them my undivided attention. I am probably going to be tired from the piggyback rides. Then, I'm going to stay up way too late chatting with my dearest sister/friend.

When something goes wrong at my friend's wedding, I will remind her that the wedding is the party. What matters is the marriage.

This week I am creating magical moments that I will remember when my loved ones are no longer with me.

Take a minute and consider what memories you cherish. What memories are so precious to you that when you're on your deathbed, you will smile when you remember those moments?

What matters in our lives are those moments from those memories with those loved ones....

There's always another task to do, but there may not be another moment to play catch in the yard. There's always another crisis at work, but there may not be an opportunity to share your heart with someone special.

Sometime this week set aside some play time and make some memories you will cherish for a lifetime.

Yes, I'm still blogging

2008-07-06T20:22:00.004-06:00

I know, I know..... you might have wondered what is going on with me.

Here's a brief synopsis of what's been happening in the last six weeks....

Started a new contract with a new client - I'm working in a technical environment related to networks, servers, infrastructure, virtual hosting, and all sort of techie stuff. Quite frankly, I'm working with engineers and I tell them periodically that they are speaking German or Latin (I don't know much about either language)
Of course, I've seen Sex & The City movie three times (loved the story, most of the clothes, the movie's theme, and the friendships!)
Over-scheduled myself in a ton of meetup group events - if you haven't checked out meetup.com, you'll be amazed at how many people share your interests!
Started a joint venture with Intentional Achievements to provide consulting & training activities for corporate clients - intrigued? interested? Leave a comment & I'll contact you
Participated in Ladies Who Launch intensive incubator program
Started dating again - it's amazing to me how you can go out with one guy & then three more guys suddenly appear in your life (truth is I'm partial to one and guarding my heart)
Visited Sedona - every time I visit Sedona, I wonder what it would be like to live there all the time because I love those red rocks & I love how energized I feel when I'm there
Went to Wine Down Wednesday & ended up on 95.5 KYOT Jazz radio station's website (photo posted below)
Joined Club E Network - fascinating new organization for entrepreneurs & networking with lots of high energy, go-getter, positive, focused people
Bowled a 174 and 194 during my first visit to a bowling alley in years! I have not felt that relaxed and had that much fun in ages! I felt like I was a kid again!
Participated in MRA certification training program
Joined Ladies Who Launch ongoing incubator
Planned an upcoming trip to the Midwest for my grandmother's 90th birthday & a college friend's wedding

Wow! No wonder I haven't had time to blog....

I've got more info to share so I hope you continue to visit. You can bet that any one of these bullet points might become a future post on the blog (okay, I'm probably not going to mention the dating stuff too often)

SATC Phenomenon

2008-05-28T23:03:00.003-06:00

Unless you've been living on a deserted island, you probably know that Sex & The City movie premieres this Friday.

I have been waiting for this movie for four long, exhausting, SATC-starved years!

If you're expecting me to write about the sex or the relationships.... that would be boring. Every other writer & movie critic covered those bases multiple times (just like Samantha's orgasms).

Very few people talk about their careers.... and they all created successful, sometimes stressful, sometimes difficult careers!

I'm looking forward to seeing how

Charlotte copes with being a stay-at-home mom....
Samantha moves her business cross-country because of a monogamous (!) relationship...
Miranda juggles a law career with a family that she never intended to have...
Carrie....

The absolutely greatest thing about Carrie is that

I really don't know what to expect from her

and I can't wait to find out what happened in her life!

Where's the Shore?

2008-05-05T23:29:00.001-06:00

"One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time."

Andre Gide

A venture or Adventure?

2008-05-01T07:14:00.001-06:00

When you first decided to create your business, did you view it as a venture or adventure?

I've always thought "venture" was a very business-like, objective term. Dollars or pounds or yen. Pros and cons. Details. Boring facts & figures. Dry, stale, stodgy people evaluating minutiae.

As it turns out.... venture isn't such a stale, stodgy (or dodgy) term after all.

Venture as a noun means a risky, daring journey and is synonymous with adventure

Venture as a verb means to risk or offer

So, I'm on an adventure with my business venture to determine what I will venture next.

(what a catchy new phrase to replace "Peter Piper picked...")

Stop & Consider

2008-04-21T16:30:00.002-06:00

I saw this quote today & felt compelled to share with you:

Dream whatever you desire to dream.

Go wherever you wish.

Seek whatever you desire

Because life is unique by how you shape it.

What are you dreaming, seeking, and going towards?

How are you shaping your life?

Are We In Business or Are We Dating?

2008-04-03T13:03:00.004-07:00

Sometimes when I talk with other business owners, I use the dating analogy to explain basic business relationship concepts.

If you wouldn't expect someone to have sex with you on the basis of a phone call, you shouldn't expect someone to purchase your services because you had a great phone call (or even multiple great phone calls)

If you wouldn't expect someone to fall in love with you & marry you on the basis of one date, you shouldn't expect someone to purchase your services because you had one great presentation.

When one party to the relationship stops returning your calls, you're in trouble. It doesn't matter which party. What matters is that there's an issue that has to be addressed.

Business success is all about relationships. Building relationships is even more important with service-oriented businesses because the value you bring to the table is more intangible than tangible. After all, you can't hold "improved customer service" in your hands like you can hold the next "latest & greatest" widget.

I've said it before & I'll say it again.... If you want to succeed in business, you have to create relationships & creating relationships STARTS with building trust.

What have you done lately to build, re-build, or repair the trust your clients have with you?

What are Your Insides Saying?

2008-04-01T07:23:00.005-07:00

This morning I read Jeffrey Gitomer's Sales Caffeine Issue 334 and he answered someone's question about motivation by saying

"People who can't stay motivated have to look at where their lack of motivation comes from. If you love your job, and you love your product, and you love your company, and even love your boss, then motivation would be a given. So obviously one of these elements is missing. Motivation comes from within. Other people cannot provide it for you. To find yours, start looking at your circumstances. Start looking at your real world. It may be time to change a few things in order to keep your internal fire lit."

I added the bold type to the statement "Motivation comes from within" for a purpose.

The vast majority of people would agree with everything Gitomer just wrote and start evaluating what's wrong with themselves. They would probably look at it as "gee, he's right. Something's wrong with me so I've got to fix it."

I'd like to take a step beyond Gitomer's words to talk about the impact that his statement "Motivation comes from within" COULD have on your business, your relationships, and your life.

Motivation does come from within, and it comes from outside you as well. Anyone who has wondered how they are going to pay the month's bills can tell you quite easily that sometimes you can be motivated by external forces or pressures.

If you aren't motivated, you don't have to look at your circumstances. You don't have to figure out what to do to keep doing what you're doing.

You just have to look at what DOES motivate you....

Your "internal fire" (as Gitomer describes it) is STILL LIT when you aren't thrilled about what you're doing. That inner drive may no longer be directed towards what you're doing externally, but it is still pulling & pushing you towards something else.

For me, the key is to slow down and pay attention to what my insides are telling me. I spent years ignoring my insides in an attempt to succeed in areas that no longer fit who I was or what I wanted because it was the "thing to do" in society or business.

Now I listen to my insides. Do you know what your insides are telling you to do? Are you going to follow your insides and live more abundantly?

What's Possible is Anything You Imagine and Take Action to Create

2008-03-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I read an inspiring story about some disabled veterans skiing. That story led me to visit Daryn Kagan's website.

Daryn Kagan provides daily news about what's possible. After a 12-year career at CNN, CNN chose not to renew her contract. For some people, that decision would have caused a paralyzing agony. Daryn chose to re-invent herself with a website providing inspiration and hope.

Isn't it fascinating that she took the best parts of who she is and what she enjoys doing to create a place where we can be inspired?

She imagined more and took action to create something unique & vibrant for our community.

What are you imagining and creating?

Your Life & Your Business as a Jigsaw Puzzle

2008-03-26T08:57:00.006-07:00

When I was growing up, I loved putting puzzles together. I would put the border in place and then start filling in the other pieces.

As a child, I was used to working on a jigsaw puzzle by myself. During high school I visited a friend's house & the entire family was involved with putting the puzzle together. It was even more fun to create this amazing picture by partnering with other people!

Lately I've been thinking about my life and my business as a jigsaw puzzle. The border was created through my childhood and educational experiences. If the border has formed my life's edges, where's the picture that I'm creating?

Do I have separate jigsaw puzzles ~ one for my business and one for my life? If they are separate, how can I create one without looking at the other?

Do I have a picture in place? Does the Universe or God have a picture for me to see and then re-create with the puzzle pieces?

Can you put a jigsaw puzzle together
if you don't have the picture on the box?

Sharing My Inspirations

2008-03-24T07:28:00.001-07:00

Almost everyone keeps some sort of memento or token on their desks. I'm just like everyone else in this regard. My office is filled with items that remind me of special memories, past successes, places I've visited, and people I love.

I have two stuffed bears sitting on my desk. One is from an English football club, and the other is from a New York state park. A framed photo reminds me of when I lived in Manchester, England. Another photo reminds me of a magical birthday when I swam with the dolphins for the first time. I have a coffee cup from my days at Krannert at Purdue.

My office also has some items that represent what I desire to bring into my life. Butterflies in my office stimulate my belief that I am creating newness, abundance, and prosperity throughout my business and my life. A figurine of a man embracing a woman reinforces my desire to be loved and cherished. A wall sculpture reminds me of my desire to be a mom.

How is your environment pushing you towards the life you desire to create? What are you doing to remind yourself of who you are BECOMING so you will escape your discontentment?

Self-Perception has Impact on Your Power

2008-03-21T16:15:00.003-07:00

This week while I was traveling for business, I experienced how powerful inner attitude and self-perceptions can be.

When I left the hotel, I asked for a taxi. Imagine my surprise when a stretch limo appeared at the door & the bellman said, "it's for you"

At first, I was horrified because it's NOT a good thing to show up at client site in a limo. After all, a client is paying for my expenses. I have a strict policy of spending my client's money as I would spend my own money - wisely!

After a few moments, I decided that I would just enjoy the moment. After all, it's a limo! The limo whizzed along the highway past all the typical commuters traveling at a snail's pace. I loved the spaciousness inside the vehicle and daydreamed about being in a limo with my friends. It would have been that much more enjoyable to be with them instead of alone. We could laugh & celebrate with lots of joie de vivre!

I knew I was meeting another colleague at the client's building. I knew that she would be annoyed and possibly even criticize me for this "choice" she'd assume was mine to make.

In a split second, I rose to a level where I knew I intended to stay. I rose above the current circumstances and chose my attitude. I knew that if I behaved defensively or panicked, it would only lead to an ugly start to a long day.

As predicted, my colleague's pursed lips quivered with annoyance at my arrival. Determined to remain in my contented attitude, I decided to take the light-hearted approach....

"Wow! I asked for a taxi and got this limo. Who would've thought?!" She said something about being treated like a rockstar, and I replied, "yeah, and the best part is that it cost the same as yesterday's taxi"

Riding in that limo gave me an opportunity to examine my limiting beliefs and to stretch (no pun intended) beyond who I am today to feel more comfortable in who I am becoming as I imagine more for myself

Great Fortunes

2008-03-18T13:33:00.004-07:00

I've been in California for several days working on a software implementation for a healthcare client. When I travel, I prefer to try the local restaurants instead of national restaurants. After all, I can eat at a Yard House or PF Chang's in my hometown.

During this business trip, I enjoyed some great places in Pasadena.... Thai Dishes, Bodega Wine Bar, and Bamboo Panda.

Sometimes I feel like the Universe is delivering a message directly to my being when I read a fortune cookie... today was like that.

You will travel far and wide, both pleasure and business.

Today's fortune made me grin because I've been planning my calendar for several upcoming trips. Reading this fortune provided a sense of confirmation for my plans.

Feel free to share your favorite "fortune story" in the comments

Yes, it's my turn to take AIM

2008-03-16T18:08:00.007-07:00

Many people have asked if I am still blogging....

I appreciate your interest!

I paused in my blogging for a few reasons. I wasn't sure that I had anything important or relevant to discuss. I have been working some insane hours for a few clients. I really took to heart something I teach others to do: ALWAYS IMAGINE MORE!

Here are some of my imaginative ideas....

Spend 20 hours of my week working as a Starbucks barista for decent & affordable healthcare
Fire my current clients, refuse any future clients, sell my house, and move to a TBD location
Get my Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) certification
Transfer my current clients to someone else & take on a new challenge in the fitness industry
Become a university professor (preferably at Purdue so I can get season football & basketball tickets)
Move to Guatemala, adopt a baby, fall in love, live happily ever after
Help a non-profit organization establish a new baby home in Guatemala

Clearly, my head and heart have gotten misaligned.... again.

Please stay tuned for what happens next....

You're welcome to vote for any of the listed ideas or share your ideas for which direction I should go

It's a Full Spectrum

2008-01-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

How fun to move from one end of the spectrum to the other!

In the course of a few days, my "gotta get it together" attitude zapped me into overdrive with multiple clients arriving in one day.

Now I get to figure out how to put the jigsaw pieces together for a fun work schedule with lots of life in between client deadlines...

I'm still trying to jolt my being into doing

2008-01-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today as I was writing an email, I wrote these words:

I'm still trying to jolt my being into doing.

Everyone else may have already identified, marketed, and made money from their "special New Year offer" product or service. I'm still trying to get my office organized and re-arranged because I have an emotional need to clear my physical space.

Do you need your physical space to be in order to think clearly?

Are you affected emotionally by the "stuff" that surrounds you?

It seems that I am still seeking clarity, and I'm finding it as I re-define my physical space. I feel almost obsessed with shredding old papers, selling furniture, and re-arranging the furniture I'm keeping.

Today as I emptied my home office of past papers and other items, I felt anticipation. Anything is possible in an empty room.

In my next home, I intend to have one room dedicated to possibilities. I intend for that room to be physically empty except for one chair or sofa for me. For me, the empty room creates space to imagine. It's possible to imagine more when you're surrounded with an abundance of space, air, and light.

Anything is possible!

Friday Fun: Guess the Song

2008-01-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a snippet of the lyrics....

What you need is a big strong hand
To lift you to your higher ground
Make you feel like a queen on a throne
Make him love you till you can't come down

As 2008 Begins

2008-01-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, I read this quote and thought it was the best way to express what I hope for you as 2008 begins.

Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. Be happy now. Don't wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, whether it's at work or with your family. Every minute should be enjoyed and savored.

Earl Nightingale
1921 - 1979
Radio Announcer, Author, and Speaker

When I researched who Earl Nightingale was, I learned that he was one of 12 survivors from USS Arizona at the bombing of Pearl Harbor. After the war, he worked in radio at KTAR in Phoenix. Then he moved to Chicago and became a radio legend.

Earl's radio program Our Changing World became the most highly syndicated radio program ever. It was heard across the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, South Africa, the Bahamas, 23 countries overseas, and the Armed Forces Network.

Earl defined SUCCESS in terms of relationships and experiences.

Here's to OUR SUCCESS in 2008!

Listen, Understand, and DO IT!

2007-12-31T08:14:00.000-07:00

As business owners, we face a new set of challenges every day. It's similar to being a child and learning how to ride a bike or play tennis.

Others have done it before us so we know it's possible to be done. We may have watched a sister, brother, or friend ride a bike. We may have watched professional athletes participate in sports and WOW us with their accomplishments.

We know success is possible. What we don't know is "how" to do these activities. We don't know what it takes to pedal a bike, pitch a ball, or hit a ball. We don't know how to swing a racket. We don't know what to do with ourselves.

Learning how to succeed as a child involved listening, understanding, and doing. We listened to someone explain what needed to happen. Our parent or our coach explained how to hit the ball. The adult may even have shown us how to do it.

From listening, we could begin to understand the mechanics of the activity. We learned that playing the piano requires you to sit in a certain position, use your fingers to hit certain piano keys and read the music in front of us. We learned how to run and meet the soccer ball. We learned how to anticipate where the baseball would appear so that we could hit it.

After understanding the mechanics, there was only one thing left: just doing it. We couldn't succeed from only listening or understanding. We could only succeed by doing the activity.

We sat at the piano, read the music in front of us, and hoped the sounds coming from the piano matched the music in front of us. We threw the ball in the air and attempted to catch it. We practiced kicking the ball towards the goal.

Just because you chose to start a business doesn't mean you will automatically succeed.

Success involves listening to people who know how to succeed.

Success means understanding what you need to do.

Success happens you continue to DO what you've chosen to do.

Wanting "The Best" for You

2007-12-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some reflections after spending over a week with my parents....

Being in business for yourself is most likely something that your parents didn't do. They cannot comprehend what you're experiencing because they are used to having jobs. Someone else set the company strategy, and their participation was to follow someone else's direction.

When you were a child, they cared for you, loved you, and wanted you to succeed. They still love you and want you to succeed even if you're an adult. The biggest difference between now and today is that they may not be able to express 'caring' for you in ways that help you.

They may or may not understand why your inventory levels are low or your books aren't balanced. They may or may not understand why you don't just fire the lousy employees or why you don't hire good people to begin with. Their opinions may grate on your nerves, irritate you, or frustrate you.

But, your parents will always love you and want the best for you.

The better question to ask yourself as 2007 ends...

Do you want the best for you?

What's Your Dream?

2007-12-17T15:38:00.000-07:00

Last week I read The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly. If you haven't read this book, it's worth going to your local bookstore and buying TODAY.

More organizations need to shift their thinking towards asking EVERY employee "What's your dream?" and then helping those dreams become reality.

Matthew Kelly believes that we are on this planet to become the best-version-of-ourselves. It's an interesting concept.

Billy Wilder (American film director) has been quoted as saying, "You have to have a dream so you can get up in the morning."

What's your dream?

What are you doing to make it a reality?

Are you Christopher Columbus?

2007-12-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was talking with a colleague who said that I'm just like Christopher Columbus.

Christopher Columbus left the world he knew. Left everything he knew with all the security he knew from the country where he was born. He got on a ship with people he may or may not have known before their voyage.

The voyage wasn't easy. People got sick. People died. He probably felt like he was failing during the journey.

Because he continued his journey....

He discovered a new world with new people living in ways he had never even considered. He went to a new place and found new people. He lived in their world and learned from them.

I left home years ago. I have traveled to countries where my family has never visited. I've known people and experienced different cultures that seem to be beyond my family's understanding.

As much as I love my family, I live in a "different world" than they do. My choices seem foreign to them. They don't really understand why I do what I do or why I live the way I've chosen.

Are you Christopher Columbus? Have you left home on a ship that your family says is doomed to go over the edge because the world is flat?

Take heart and remember that the world is your adventure! Christopher Columbus stumbled onto his new world. If you're stumbling, keep going.....

Your next adventure is on the horizon.

Celebrate 2007 - Last 2007 CatalystConnect Call

2007-12-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

Today's topic will be about celebrations. My intention is to share some success stories from throughout my year.

If you want more success in your life, you have to focus on the success you have.

Join me today as we talk about Success and how to have more Success in 2008!

Tuesday, Dec. 11 from 2-3 pm Phoenix time
(starts at 1 pm PST, 4 pm EST, 9 pm UK)

Dial 1 605 725 1900

Participant passcode is 7822377 (SUCCESS)

You pay only for your long distance charges

Looking forward to hearing you on the call....

Friday Fun: Guess the Song

2007-12-07T16:45:00.000-07:00

Here's a snippet of the lyrics...

I hope you know, I hope you know
That this has nothing to do with you
It's personal, myself and I
We've got some straightenin' out to do
And I'm gonna miss you like a child misses their blanket
But I've got to get a move on with my life

Are You Really Being Responsive to Your Clients?

2007-12-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

This week I was disappointed when I contacted someone and didn't get any response from them. My email requested a response from them, and it was about something important to me.

The logical part of me can create all sorts of rationalizations:

They are busy and probably focused on the latest "fire" instead of looking ahead.
Maybe they didn't get my email.
I'm sure I'll hear from them today.

The emotional part of me feels hurt, disappointed, and dismayed because I wasn't even acknowledged. For me, hearing "no" would have been easier to accept than hearing nothing.

People buy with their emotions. It doesn't matter if it's a widget or a service. It doesn't matter if it's business or personal. People buy from their emotions, and you have to remember that to succeed in business.

Your clients might react to you in the same way I did this week. Left to wonder why they haven't heard from you, they will start to distance themselves from you. Distance in a business relationship creates separation that ultimately leads to no business. Your clients will be less inclined to continue doing business with you if you aren't attentive or responsive.

It's even more detrimental when you delay contacting prospective clients. You haven't yet established a relationship with them so why should they trust you'll deliver your services or products when you said you would? The quick answer is that they won't trust you. If they don't trust you, you'll never develop a relationship that leads to sales and success.

What is your company's policy on client responsiveness? Do you have any standards? Do you measure employee behavior to know if your business meets its standards?

Until this week, I didn't think I really needed a standard or policy. After all, I take care of my client contacts. I return calls and send emails. Until this week, I hadn't really thought about "when" I take care of those requests.

Until this week, I had listened to other service providers talk about having standards. For example, Alan Weiss returns all phone calls within 90 minutes. A millionaire consultant returns all calls within 90 minutes. That's impressive!

Now I'm setting standards for my company. Phone and email standards are being included in my business processes.

Are you responsive to your clients? How do you respond? More importantly, when do you respond?

"I Fed a Child for a Month" - Do Good Stuff

2007-11-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

As you're shopping for gifts for loved ones, I'd like to suggest that you consider the products from this company - Do Good Stuff.

DO GOOD LLC was established to show how business can have a positive influence on society. Every sale provides humanitarian assistance. Every vendor is carefully chosen. Most items are made in the USA. The items that are made in Latin America are made by companies that protect their employees, not exploit them.

Most items are going to be more expensive than your neighborhood Target, but these items will make a difference to a child in need. DO GOOD believes that we can work within the bounds of the global economy to provide ethically created products.

"I fed a child for a month"

I hope the company succeeds because I like the ideals it is encouraging. I'm looking forward to wearing my T-shirts and sharing with other people how they can feed a child for a month.

In case you're curious, here are links to the items I just purchased:

IFCM Green-Blue Swirl Tie-Dye Shirt

Do Good Rainbow Tie-Dye Shirt

2008 GuatAdopt.com Calendar

After my items arrive, I'll post a picture modeling the shirts.

Enjoy your weekend! Happy Shopping!

"Need a New Job" and Other End of Year Funkiness

2007-11-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

Recently, several people have contacted me with some version of "I hate my job! I've got to get a new job!" As the end of the year gets closer, it's natural for people to evaluate where they are and what they are doing.

When the life you WANT isn't matching your current life, it's uncomfortable at best. It's pretty easy to see people slip into a deep blue "end of year" funk.

I know a lot about solving business problems, especially when those problems relate to your clients or your employees. I'm also good at helping individuals identify what they truly WANT in life. Some people have told me that I helped them with career decisions, and I am grateful to have helped them.

In spite of having guided people in the past with career situations, career transition is NOT my specialty. I'm not the best person to help you when you're trying to decide what kind of job you want or where you want to work.

When I'm not the best person to help you, I believe in finding someone to recommend. Today I'm recommending that you contact Dr. Leah Jackman-Wheitner. You can email her directly at leah@confidencebook.com

Helping people create a firm foundation on which to build a solid, appealing and rewarding future is a passion for Leah Jackman-Wheitner, Ph.D. After more than a decade of intensive training and experience in the field of psychology, Dr. Jackman-Wheitner shares her knowledge as a business consultant and coach by helping successful people become even more successful.

Dr. Jackman-Wheitner’s role as a business and career consultant allows individual coaching clients to fine-tune their personal or professional lives, attaining new levels of success and satisfaction. Dr. Jackman-Wheitner earned a 1991 masters degree and a 1994 doctorate in counseling psychology from The Ohio State University where she completed a dissertation regarding vocational identity and psychological health. Her bachelor’s degree with honors in psychology and French is from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and has completed coach training through the Institute for Life Coach Training

Dr. Leah's published books include Unlocking the Confidence Code: 5 Steps to Complete Core Confidence, Women's Business Success, and Becoming Whole.

Dr. Leah is participating in tomorrow's CatalystConnect free tele-conference. During tomorrow's tele-conference, we will spend 5-10 minutes talking about career transitions and how to secure business (or a new job) NOW. The rest of the hour will be devoted to question & answer among participants.

Dial +1 605 725 1900

Participant passcode is 7822377 (SUCCESS)

You pay only for your long distance telephone charges.

Tuesday, November 27 at 2 p.m. MST

If you need help converting timezones, here's a great link for help.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

My mom sent this link to me over the weekend.

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=HY27482779

May you be blessed with love, laughter, and family/friends during tomorrow's celebration!

For some of my international friends, you might be interested in this link explaining our Thanksgiving holiday.

Abraham Lincoln is credited as establishing Thanksgiving as a federal holiday on the last Thursday. Here's a link to his proclamation.

I prefer the storytelling tone from the above links (found by googling Thanksgiving explanation). Another explanation at Wikipedia includes Thanksgiving in Canada.

Talk with me at 2 p.m. MST on Tuesdays

2007-11-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

For me, Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and reflection.

I've thought a lot about the value I choose to give to my clients and prospective clients. I'm re-introducing something I did in the past because I truly believe it's valuable.

Every Tuesday I am available for one hour at 2 p.m. MST for anyone with a question.

I know that sometimes you just need someone else to provide an objective perspective or offer suggestions. It isn't easy being the boss, and sometimes it's much easier to talk with someone who isn't connected to your business or your personal life.

It's been said that you cannot solve a problem using the same thoughts that created the problem. Another popular saying is "The definition of insanity is to keep doing what you're doing and expect different results."

On the first & third Tuesdays, I am offering to chat with you privately. Calls will be taken on a first come, first served basis at my office (+1 480 344 7747). That means today I'm available from 2-3 p.m. MST in my office.

On the second & fourth Tuesdays, I am hosting a CatalystConnect free tele-conference. During each tele-conference, I'll spend 5-10 minutes to introduce a business topic or idea. The rest of the hour will be devoted to question & answer among participants.

Dial +1 605 725 1900

Participant passcode is 7822377 (SUCCESS)

You pay only for your long distance telephone charges.

You don't have to sail alone on your life's ocean. You can connect with me and other successful people every Tuesday at 2 p.m. MST.

If you need help converting timezones, here's a great link for help.

"Plan To Be Surprised"

2007-11-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when you see a movie, you get a lot more than you expect.

This weekend I saw Dan in Real Life, and it was more than I expected. It was funny, whimsical, and REAL.

If you live as if you plan to be surprised, you are open for anything that can happen. There's a freedom that comes from living as if you don't know what's next.

Just imagine for a moment how you felt when you were a child anticipating Christmas or Hanukkah or Kwanzaa or Ramadan or Pancha Ganapati.

You woke up each morning filled with joy and excitement. You had X number of days until it was time for a big celebration. You just knew that somehow your wishes would be fulfilled.

For today, live as if you're a child anticipating a big surprise! After all, you never know when you'll land the big contract or meet the perfect person or secure the perfect job.

It could be today.

Tagging - Another Form of Relationship Building

2007-11-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

So, there's a first for everything. Kathy tagged me on Tuesday, so here is what I have learned about tagging.

There are a few rules one must follow to play the game. When tagged, you must link to the person who tagged you. Then post the rules before your list, and list eight random things about yourself. At the end of the post, you must tag and link to eight other people.

8 Random Things About Me

1. I have lived, worked, or visited more than 30 cities and 12 countries

2. I really want to sail around the world

3. I love working with a variety of clients because I love learning

4. My best birthday ever was the year I swam with the dolphins off the coast of Kona, Hawaii

5. I still want to marry my best friend and be a mom

6. I don't know who my best friend is (I have a lot of great friends!)

7. I love speaking in front of groups & inspiring people to SOAR

8. I prefer to enjoy a business life filled with consulting, writing, speaking, and teaching

Tagging seems to be a fun way to establish & nurture relationships. I'm interested in knowing 8 random facts about these people:

http://organizeddoodles.blogspot.com/

http://creativeclicksphotography.blogspot.com/

http://www.sunflowersandladybugs.com/blog.asp

http://nina-sotte-fille.blogspot.com/

http://dutchgramma.blogspot.com/

http://frumpmama.blogspot.com/

http://elmoresandiego.blogspot.com/

http://www.notesfromthetrenches.com/

As I found a blog I enjoyed reading, I checked out other associated blogs. There's not really any rhyme or reason to the collection of blogs I listed.

Have a great weekend!

SOAR out of Sameville

2007-11-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

When I spoke at the Indianapolis eWomenNetwork event on Friday, I promised each of the attendees a CD of my speech.

In addition to the speech, two women were kind enough to talk with me about the choices they made after hearing my speech. We talked about the first action they planned to take and discussed how I could help them succeed. Those conversations and my contact information are also included on this CD.

Here's what the CD looks like. My thanks to Leah for the great necklace!

If you'd like to receive the CD, I'm happy to send it to you. Since I'm providing the CD for free, I ask that you pay $5.00 USD in shipping. Post a comment with your info or email me at lucinda @ lucinda.biz (no spaces needed for the email address)

It Doesn't Matter How You Define Success

2007-11-12T14:19:00.000-07:00

Friday I spoke at the Indianapolis eWomenNetwork luncheon. I met some amazing women, and I really enjoyed our conversations.

Here's an excerpt from what I said to the women....

I am not here today to define success for you. Just as the word SOAR creates different images for people, success is as unique as each person listening today.

I am not here to offer you a cookie cutter approach to succeed. Someone listening may choose to quit a job to succeed. Someone else may get a job. A third person may decide that today is the day she wants to sing at the top of her lungs from the balcony of her apartment.

It doesn't matter how you define success as long as you define it.

Have you defined your success lately?

What does it look like?

What does it feel like?

Without clarity and without definition, how will you know when you succeed?

Friday Fun: Funny Telemarketing Call

2007-11-09T07:47:00.000-07:00

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=21323072

I received this link in an email, and I couldn't resist sharing it! Several years ago I spent six months doing inside sales so I have definitely experienced "both sides of the fence" when it relates to dialing for dollars.

Luckily, I didn't have any reason to call Tom Mabe.

FYI: The Bob & Tom show originated in Indianapolis, and I'm speaking there today.

Always Tell Your Friends What's Happening in Your Life

2007-11-02T14:34:00.001-07:00

Today I was speaking with a woman about a job change she made recently. She's been in real estate, and you can imagine how difficult that the market is now.

She told me a story that illustrates perfectly how success is all about relationships. She had mentioned to a friend that she was going to look for a job. The next day he called because his office manager had left the company. She said, "well, you're in luck because I'm available!"

Some might say that it was a coincidence. Others might say she seized an opportunity.

What I say is that her story shows us that we find success through our relationships. In this case, it was a job she needed at the time she needed it.

She was ready, and the job appeared. That proves another key principle - always be ready to rise to the occasion!

UNICEF tricks, not treats

2007-10-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

Until I was pursuing an adoption from Guatemala, I was unaware of UNICEF's actions to stop inter-country adoption.

This year, when the kids in my neighborhood stop by my house, they are also getting a note from me explaining UNICEF's tricks.

You can visit this website for more specific details

Friday Fun: Guess the Song

2007-10-26T13:42:00.000-06:00

Here's a snippet of the lyrics....

And when we meet
Which I'm sure we will
All that was there
Will be there still
I'll let it pass
And hold my tongue
And you will think
That I've moved on....

Honesty is the Best Policy

2007-10-18T13:01:00.000-06:00

If you have bad news to deliver, be honest. Honest communication is what fosters trust in a relationship.

"I'm sorry, but it just isn't going to work out for you to be promoted now. There are some specific areas where other candidates were stronger."

"I'm sorry, but I've decided not to buy your widget because I found one that is cheaper and still does what I need it to do."

To improve your business, you need feedback. To improve your skills, you need feedback. If someone chooses not to buy your products, ask why. If you aren't promoted, ask what you need to do to be considered in the future.

Asking gets you information. Information is a first step towards creating change. Information provides you with choices on what to do next.

Trio of Powerful Women!

2007-10-16T16:10:00.000-06:00

Just thought I'd post a picture taken at the Good Morning America event I attended at the Heard Museum.

Tory Johnson's touring the country with Good Morning America to "celebrate women who have found flexibility, balance and satisfaction in their work and home lives -- and encouraging other women to do the same". While in Phoenix, Tory interviewed Carnegie Mellon economist Linda Babcock on wage issues in the workplace. Tory is in the center of our picture. Her website is Women for Hire - check it out!

Allison Bell is the Inspirational Diva. She speaks with teens on the importance of embracing today. For more information, feel free to check out her website.

++++++

Update: Someone who is very observant asked about my wrist. It was a slight sprain, and it's healed now.

Keep Right On

2007-10-11T05:30:00.000-06:00

As you're reading this post, I'm arriving in England for a short business trip. Although I won't be visiting my English football club, I thought the words from its fan anthem are especially appropriate for anyone who is creating the life they desire.

As you go through life,
It's a long long road, there'll be joys and sorrows too,
As we journey on, we will sing this song,
For the boys in royal blue,
We're often partisan, la, la, la,
We will journey on, la, la, la,
Keep right on to the end of the road, keep right on to the end,
Though the road be long, let your hearts be strong,
Keep right on to the end,
Though you're tired and weary, still journey on,
Till you come to your happy abode,
Where all the love, you've been dreaming of,
Will be there (where?), at the end of the road

Exceptional Leaders Create Magic

2007-10-09T12:23:00.000-06:00

When people listen with their hearts, it's magical just like listening to dolphins sing underwater.

My friend Jen sent me a beautiful e-card this morning. I loved this picture so much that I decided to share it as a way of honoring the creative, playful spirit that lives inside each of us.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed today, create space to nurture your playful side. Schedule a hour meeting with the inner child who still lives within you.

If you're stuck in the office, go outside and walk barefoot in the grass. If you're in a cubicle, find an empty conference room, shut the door, and pretend to play hopscotch for 5 minutes. Create a paper wad basketball and shoot hoops into the trash bin.

Are your employees getting on each other's nerves? Find a way to inject some FUN into the workplace. Play a childhood game like "hot potato" or sing a childhood song like Row Your Boat or London Bridge before your meeting begins.

Sure, some people might think you've lost your mind. They might laugh at your suggestions, but laughter is one of the healthiest activities to reduce stress and increase creativity.

Engaging the "other side" of your brain will actually help you and your employees solve the problems that are causing so much stress and tension. Physical activity creates movement. Movement creates shifts in your mental state and emotional well-being.

Creativity is what solves problems.

Have fun today! Create some magic! Solve some problems!

"It's Not Personal"

2007-10-08T17:43:00.000-06:00

How many times have you heard people say "it's not personal" in the business world?

How many times did you believe them? Never, because it's a lie.

Every day people make decisions based on what they believe is right for themselves and for their companies.

It is personal when you decide to fire someone. It is personal when you decide to promote someone. Those decisions affect someone's ability to succeed, and that always has an impact on people's lives. It isn't just the individual person. There's an overall impact as well.

A good hire makes your life easier as a business owner, executive, or manager. A bad hire will keep you awake at night. After all, a company's performance is tied directly to the behavior of its employees. Every day businesspeople have choices and make decisions about people, process, technology, schedules, etc.

Even when you're purchasing a product, it is personal. You want to know the product will live up to its hype - serve its purpose, help you feel good, make your life more convenient, etc.

As someone who teaches others to understand that success is all about relationships, I can't comprehend why people still use such a trite, over-used statement.

It IS personal. It always has been. It always will be.

Next time you're daydreaming

2007-10-07T00:22:00.000-06:00

Many people wonder what it would be like to walk away and "escape" a life that has become disjointed, uncomfortable, or unhappy.

Jason Lewis thought he was taking a short reprieve from life in London. He's even quoted as saying he wanted to escape from London.

Instead of a two year expedition, he spent 13 years traveling across the world on his own power. Spent 9 months recovering in Colorado after he suffered two broken legs when he was hit by an elderly driver. Attacked by a crocodile. Jailed for being a spy.

Here are some links to read various articles:

BBC article on his arrival this weekend

USAToday article

Tacoma article - loved the pictures with this article (article is identical to the USAToday article)

Australian article

Photos of each leg of his journey are on the Expedition 360 website.

Next time you think you want to escape your life, you might want to visit Jason's website. He learned a lot of lessons during his 13-year odyssey.

My observation: It doesn't matter where you are on the planet. Your problems are still your problems. Your joys are still your joys.

You are still you.

If you don't like something about your life, change it. After all, you only have today to choose.

How will you choose?

This one's for my brother

2007-10-03T23:28:00.001-06:00

My brother has been a Cubs fan since he was a little kid. Of course, he's thrilled the Cubbies are playing the Diamondbacks.

This is what I have to say about the playoffs....

5000 Orphans

2007-10-02T00:04:00.000-06:00

Perhaps you've noticed....

I've been distracted lately.

Part of the reason is the turmoil in Guatemalan adoptions. Last week the Department of State issued a statement that thousands of cases currently in process may be halted by Guatemalan president.

If you're interested, click on this website for information to read an explanation from the parents' perspective about what's happening and how you can help!

Thanks in advance

10/17/07 Update: The Guatemalan president has now said that he will support cases that are in process. I appreciate any help you may have provided during this time. Even if I am unable to adopt from Guatemala in the future, I know that many families will have beautiful children. Only one in five children live to celebrate their 5th birthday in Guatemala. That's why I remain hopeful that international adoption will remain an option for those children

I Read Banned Books! (Thanks, Mom)

2007-10-01T14:20:00.000-06:00

It's difficult to believe books are still being banned in many libraries across the country.

In honor of Banned Books Week, I'm placing the logo on my blog and adding this link for you to check out how you can participate.

I glanced through the list of the 100 Most Frequently Banned Books of 1990-2000. Here is a partial list of banned books I've read from that list:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (one of my all-time favorite books)
Forever by Judy Blume (I was probably too young when I read this book for the first time. I left it in my school locker so my parents wouldn't know I was reading a book about first love and having sex)
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Deenie by Judy Blume
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
Ordinary People by Judith Guest
Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume (It's definitely NOT a religious book! LOL)
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

When I was growing up, my mom was the high school librarian. I would sometimes go with her to the library during the last two weeks after school ended and the first two weeks before school started. She wanted to re-shelve and put all the books back in proper order according to the Dewey system. Inevitably, I'd end up sitting on the floor reading a book instead of putting the books back in order.

Thanks, Mom, for teaching me about books. I love to read today because of your guidance.

Put aside your business books for this week. Pick a banned book and celebrate with me. I'm re-reading the Harry Potter series before reading the final one.

Check This Out - Custom Radio

2007-09-28T12:31:00.000-06:00

Unique... Adventuresome... Fun...

People have used those words to describe me. I'd use them to describe the Music Genome Project.

Check it out at www.pandora.com

When I visited, I typed in Norah Jones. The first song was by Norah. The rest are artists with a similar sound.

Wow! What a fun way to find new music to love!

Thanks, Angel, for the tip!

Quandry with Customer Service Surveys

2007-09-26T16:29:00.000-06:00

Because I read A LOT, I visit different bookstores on a regular basis. Usually, I buy from Barnes & Noble because of their membership program. This week was one of those rare times I chose to buy from Borders because it was more convenient.

When I was checking out, I was selected for a random customer service survey. The salesperson explained that I needed to give all 5's in the telephone survey (meaning that I'm highly satisfied) to help the store. If I chose even a 3 or a 4, the survey would be "thrown out & not help us." She also said that my 5's would help her individually.

As I was participating in the survey, I was torn between telling the truth and wanting to help the store person. I chose 5 a couple of times when really I would rather have chosen a 3 or 4.

Why did I do that? Because I value the person more than the corporate entity.

In theory, a customer service survey is supposed to be anonymous. In theory, the results aren't skewed. However, when the people being evaluated find out how the results are being used for or against them, they'll figure out how to ask the person being surveyed to help them.

For business owners implementing customer service evaluation tools, you need to decide if you want honest feedback or any feedback.

Borders got honest feedback from me in most of their survey. When the survey asked me about their membership program, I couldn't give it a 5.

I will have to explain that rating to the salesperson next time I see her.

Revisiting Your Past to Identify Your Future

2007-09-24T12:54:00.000-06:00

When you were a child, you probably thought about what it would be like to be a grown-up. You may have wanted to be just like Dad or just like Mom, and those ideas definitely influenced the decisions you made.

When I was a child, I thought about being married, having children, and writing for a living. That was probably the order of importance or priority for me as well ~ It was more important to me to be with someone who loved me, a best friend to share my secrets, an adventurous companion than to be a career woman. One of my college friends worried that I'd marry my college sweetheart and never "live in the real world on my own"

Comparing the life of my childhood fantasies to the life I currently enjoy, not much resembles that idealized picture in my head. I remain single, don't yet have children, and my writing is a supplement to the consulting I thoroughly enjoy doing.

At first glance, it would seem that I have not accomplished what I wanted in this life. But, when I look back and remember the feelings or experiences I wanted to have in this life, I HAVE accomplished a lot!

I always wanted to live a life of adventure and see the world!

High school friends seemed to drift back "home" after college. College friends definitely returned to the states where they grew up. I always felt that there was something more to see or more to do.

I left my first professional position at Purdue University because I wanted to see the world and working there wasn't going to provide that opportunity. I enjoyed being a management consultant with Ernst & Young because I traveled and lived in other places.

I am still living my life of adventure. I know there are other experiences still waiting for me. With any luck at all, the loved one and the children will still be part of my life. After all, seeing the world through their eyes will be a whole new adventure.

Instead of feeling frustration about who you are or what you've done (or not done), evaluate if you truly have felt what you wanted to feel. If you're ready to feel something else, define it and then get ready to rise because it will be appearing before you know it!

here's a laugh to start your week

2007-09-23T21:57:00.000-06:00

Impatient Kitty Wants Food - Watch more free videos

Friendship in Business

2007-09-21T10:05:00.000-06:00

Often we create and nurture relationships at work that become friendships. As a consultant, I often see people come and people go. Sometimes you think a friendship can last beyond a project. Most of the time it doesn't.

I wonder why that happens. The easy excuses include....

I just don't have time

My life is just too hectic right now

There just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day

Keeping in touch is an important part of staying in business. Staying connected, even if it's on a less frequent basis, means you will hear about new opportunities from people inside the company. Sometimes those networks of people help you find new jobs.

After all, there's truth in the old saying:

It's not what you know. It's who you know.

Today's Choice: Find a way to re-connect with former colleagues. Plan a get together event or schedule a lunch. You'll enjoy the camaraderie of past friendships - swap some old stories, re-tell the funny jokes, and laugh. Lead by example and make it happen!

Practice Making Quick Decisions

2007-09-20T08:53:00.000-06:00

If you truly live as if you only have today, it is inevitable that you become quicker at making decisions.

I think A LOT.

When I say I think a lot, I mean that I will turn a situation upside down, look at it from all angles, analyze it with some "what if..." questions, and do some bargaining with my internal Self.

If I was considering a purchase that was more than $100, I would give the decision 24 hours (or more). Many salespeople have heard, "I've got to sleep on it because I have this internal rule that if I'm spending more than $100, I have to wait and see if I still want the item tomorrow morning."

Funny thing happened when I started practicing quick decisions... I started to trust myself more, believed in what I was doing, and succeeded more often than not.

Here's my most recent example of quick decision making. Yesterday morning I read an email about a unique opportunity for women here in Phoenix. Good Morning America will be here next Wednesday, September 26 to broadcast their Take Control of Your Life series from the Heard Museum. The organizers are hoping 200 women are in the audience and are also looking for people who would be willing to ask a question or participate in a speaking role during one of the segments.

Within an hour of reading the initial information, I had RSVP'd that I'd attend, contacted two other businesswomen friends, and sent my information to one of the organizers. I also suggested one of my businesswomen friends as another person for a speaking role.

Today's Choice: Practice making quick decisions. After all, you'll never have all the information needed to make a perfect decision. Instead of a perfect decision, try a quick decision. Let me know the result.

How a Test Drive Inspired More Action

2007-09-19T11:23:00.000-06:00

This morning I dropped my car off at the dealership to get it checked out. After driving on a flat tire (oops!), I thought it would be wise to make sure I hadn't messed up the suspension or anything else.

Instead of taking the standard mid-size rental car, I upgraded to the Toyota Solara convertible. It's finally a little bit cooler here in Phoenix, and I was in a carefree mood this morning. After all, I've been thinking about a new car. I'm spending $15 for an all-day test drive.

As I headed back to the office, I kept thinking about how easy it was to spend $15 for a test drive. I'm developing some new informational products now, and I have been thinking about how to get people to buy the products.

Here's my offer: From now until the end of September, if you are interested in knowing why your relationships at work define your success at work and how to improve those relationships, email me. To avoid those spam inducing internet spiders from grabbing my email address, send email to Lucinda at catalyst-for-success.com. I'll send you that chapter from my upcoming book with practical techniques to improve those relationships.

Unlike my $15 test drive, this offer costs you zero dollars and zero cents. Just the time it takes to send an email.

What a Way to Get Noticed!

2007-09-10T08:03:00.000-06:00

In someone's blog about family and/or adoption, I found Dawn Meehan's blog. She writes about being a mom to 6 kids, and she reminds me of Erma Bombeck.

She's funny.

LOL funny.

She actually tried to sell an item on ebay that her children managed to sneak by her when they were at the grocery store. That listing had me in tears because she was so funny.

When I was driving to my office on Friday, I hear about her on NPR's Morning Edition.

Here's the info from NPR's website:
Dawn Meehan started a blog in hopes of getting some extra income from ads on the site. She wrote about grocery shopping with her six kids and how hard it is to save money while the kids snuck things into the cart. The tale has been widely circulated on the Internet. Now Meehan has an offer for a book deal, a screenplay and a TV series.

It's worth clicking on the link and then clicking LISTEN

Wow!

She really is our modern version of Erma Bombeck!

The Irony of Technology

2007-09-07T10:41:00.000-06:00

In case you're wondering why there was a short hiatus, it is because I'm not very tech savvy.

At the moment, I write two blogs. This blog focuses primarily on business, success, and my perspectives.

My other blog is a roller-coaster ride about my adoption plans. Lately, my adoption journey has been more emotional, stressful, and upsetting. So, I decided to make that blog private. Only certain people would have access to it.

Of course, I did the exact opposite of what I planned. This blog got the "private" status and the other one was still wide open to anyone & everybody.

Thankfully, someone who reads both blogs sent me a note and asked why I had made this one private.

After I quit laughing, I decided I'd better change the settings & post something here.

Happy Friday! Enjoy your weekend!

Serendipity - Gotta Love It

2007-08-27T11:04:00.000-06:00

I love when I have a serendipitous moment!

Just as I was talking about my upcoming anniversary, here's some fabulous data to share....

I saw an old Rhonda Abrams column from USAToday website. Here's the link. Rhonda Abrams is author of The Successful Business Plan: Secrets & Strategies and president of The Planning Shop, publishers of books and other tools for business plans. You can register for Rhonda's free business planning newsletter at www.PlanningShop.com.

Her column tears apart the myth-that-masquerades-as-truth about most businesses failing within first five years. It's a great piece so I encourage you to read it in its entirety.

Here's the part I'm going to quote:

David Birch, former head of a research firm specializing in studying small business data, provided statistics on what is a more accurate rate of success for an entrepreneurial business.

His survival rates:

• First year: 85%
• Second: 70%
• Third: 62%
• Fourth: 55%
• Fifth: 50%
• Sixth: 47%
• Seventh: 44%
• Eighth: 41%
• Ninth: 38%
• Tenth: 35%

"Once you've hit five years, your odds of survival go way up," Birch said. "Only two to three percent of businesses older than five shut down each year."

Approaching Anniversary

2007-08-22T12:41:00.000-06:00

I established Catalyst for Success in the fall of 2002, and I'm preparing to celebrate a big milestone anniversary with a party later this year.

Like other entrepreneurs before me, I stumbled my way into business. After spending 7 years with one of the premier management consulting firms, I was burned out and unemployable.

Yes, I was unemployable.

The vast majority of employees go to the same location, sit in the same cubicle, see the same people, eat at the same places for lunch, work some more, and then go home. Year after year after year after year.

Even if an employee changes jobs, they are quickly back to the same daily routine.

I cannot fathom that kind of environment. I love the variety of being a consultant. I love applying ideas in multiple organizations - large & small. I love meeting new people. I even love traveling to work with new clients (as long as it's a good fit in terms of the work being done & the results we are achieving).

My business has evolved during the last five years, and I'm excited to think about how it will continue to evolve.

One constant will remain in place: my principles

Success Is All About Relationships
Only Have Today
Always Imagine More
Ready to Rise

Keep Quiet Sometimes

2007-08-14T17:15:00.000-06:00

Two of my core strengths are strategic thinking and creativity.

When people tell me about what they want to accomplish, I can see how they will get there, what obstacles they might face, and how they could possibly maneuver around the obstacles to achieve their dreams. Everything lights up inside me as I listen.

I feel the ideas bubbling inside me,
and I love sharing those ideas!

What isn't easy sometimes is that my brain keeps creating while my mouth is talking. Sometimes people get confused when it seems like I am jumping from one topic to another. In my mind, I made the connection. In my speech, I failed to communicate.

So, I'm training myself to slow down the talking and keep quiet sometimes. Waiting for my brain to fully create and process everything while I want to share all my ideas takes effort.

It's worth the time and effort when I see someone else's face light up after I've explained in detail what my brain created so quickly.

Today's Choice: Ask others for feedback on how your strength affects them. If needed, adjust your behavior so your strength remains an asset.

Feels Great to Be in My Office!

2007-08-06T11:15:00.000-06:00

This morning I returned to my office. Although I enjoyed my travels, it's good to be back in my perfectly sized, delightful space!

I mentioned the book 4-Hour Workweek in earlier posts. Some concepts Tim Ferriss suggested about time management are continuing to turn my "work world" upside down.

If this is the only thing I accomplish today,
will I be satisfied with my day?

Tim suggests that there should never be more than two mission-critical items to complete each day.

Two!?!? You've got to be kidding!

Two.

Here are my two mission-critical items to complete today:

Identify all my "next actions" for personal and business
Organize my business "next actions" into do-able lists

Today's Choice: Evaluate your day as if you only had two hours to work. Identify the two most important activities you absolutely must complete today. Complete only those activities. Reschedule the rest of your activities, meetings, etc. Surprise your family or do something that makes you smile!

What You Wear Matters

2007-08-02T10:22:00.000-06:00

In the business world of perceptions, it's common to hear advice about "dressing for the next level" to advance in your career.

Dressing for success is also prevalent for small and mid-sized businesses. How people perceive you and your abilities is important. Some people evaluate a business owner/executive based on material possessions - car, clothes, jewelry, and even shoes.

Most people pay little attention to how they feel wearing their clothes and driving their cars. What they don't realize is that your internal emotions propel your external actions. When you feel great about what you're wearing or driving, you carry yourself with more confidence. You are able to imagine more and rise above your current performance level.

For example, I bought a pair of Tiffany earrings while I was in Vegas. Originally, I wanted to pamper myself with a Vegas souvenir. What I experienced is that the earrings stirred up a lot of emotions ~ I was thrilled to have them because they match a very special bracelet. I also berated myself because it was a shameless display of materialism to spend that much money on a pair of earrings. And, quite frankly, I'd love to have Mr. Fabulous buy jewelry for me. After sorting through my emotions, I knew those earrings symbolized my success in many areas.

This morning I dressed for internal success ~ I am wearing my new earrings with an outfit that makes me feel fabulous, abundant, prosperous, etc.

This morning I felt more confident in my business ideas. As I'm planning some future services and programs, I am filled with excitement about the possibilities. My reaction today has been why not? let's try it! instead of I need to give this some thought and consider the ramifications & consequences first.

Today's choice: Identify what clothes or material possessions make you feel fabulous, abundant, and prosperous. After using those possessions for one day, evaluate how you feel, what decisions you made, and what results you experienced. Eliminate anything that makes you feel less than fabulous, abundant, and prosperous. If it doesn't make you feel great, you don't need it in your house or office.

My Biggest Myth

2007-08-01T10:46:00.000-06:00

When I worked in corporate America, I learned quickly that sometimes you have to "take one for the team" for the good of the organization. In my case, "the team" was a project team.

This project assignment isn't ideal for what you want to do with your career, but we really need you to do it anyway.

If you take this project now, I'll make sure to get you a better role on the next project.

Yes, it is grunt work, but you just have to do the work for now.

This project will give you an opportunity to improve your technical skills. After all, you need to be more well-rounded to move up in the organization.

The role might not be great, but you'll be working with [insert name of executive]

I could continue to list the excuses I heard, but they don't really matter anymore. Marcus Buckingham spoke yesterday about some of the biggest myths. One of the biggest myths he dissected was "Take one for the team"

The team needs you to know your strengths.

The team needs you to use your strengths all the time.

When you volunteer to do what you do best, the team is better. Team performance is stronger. The team is more productive.

I don't have to put myself aside for the team....

Neither do you

Today's choice: Tell the people on your team what you do best. Identify one activity or task where you can do what you do best. Volunteer to be responsible for that activity or task.

Personal Thoughts about Vegas

2007-07-31T09:24:00.000-06:00

Vegas is one of those unique cities that people seem to love or hate.

I love being here! Not sure I could stay more than a few days at a time, but it's a great "escape your life" place to visit.

Although it may sound trite, one of my favorite activities is to experience the Bellagio fountains at night. Last night one of the segments particularly touched my heart. The music was one of my favorite classical pieces - Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. I used to be able to play it on the piano, and maybe I will play it again someday.

What a wonderful start to my trip!

Off to Vegas

2007-07-30T17:59:00.000-06:00

I'm still processing information from the 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss. Not yet ready to share my thoughts and changes, but I will soon.

Today I am flying to Vegas for a Marcus Buckingham seminar. If you haven't read Now, Discover Your Strengths or Go Put Your Strengths to Work, you can click on the links to find out more info.

I'm excited to meet Marcus because I believe his ideas & concepts can be applied most easily in a small to mid-sized business.

Will post again tomorrow after the seminar.

Pure hell forces action, but anything less can be endured with enough clever rationalization

2007-07-20T13:40:00.000-06:00

That quote is from Tim Ferriss in a book titled 4-Hour Workweek.

I'm reading the book this weekend.

Looks like it is a treasure on how to live TODAY, instead of putting off what you want to do

Will share more info on this book next week.....

Adding Value Wherever I Go

2007-07-18T18:10:00.000-06:00

During my cross-country trip I learned a valuable lesson for my business. I am in the enviable position of being able to work wherever I am. Somehow I have always thought that was possible, but only if I had my laptop with me.

For example, in Indiana I met some great people who have a charitable foundation to assist people in Guatemala. We talked about some ideas to improve development. No need for a laptop for that.

After leaving Indiana, I arrived in St. Louis with the original intention to stay just long enough to pick up my laptop & drive west. Needless to say, I ended up staying for the weekend.

A friend from my Ernst & Young consulting days now has a specialty apparel manufacturing business. We worked on identifying and documenting her business processes. Although I needed a computer to document the processes, the true value she received was in our discussions.

My questions provided a way for her to gain clarity on what she truly wanted to accomplish with her business. She now has a way to create consistency in how her products are created. She can also begin identifying metrics for measuring business and employee success.

From an external perspective, I stayed an additional two days in St. Louis. From an internal perspective, I gained priceless information about how I do what I do best.

I love working with decision makers to set a direction for their business and create results! It's a great combination of imagining more for them and helping them rise.

Do You Get to Do What You Do Best Every Day?

2007-07-12T14:19:00.000-06:00

Earlier today I participated in a call with Marcus Buckingham, author of Now, Discover Your Strengths and Go Put Your Strengths to Work. This summer he's presenting a Summer of Development series of telephone calls to promote the concepts from Go Put Your Strengths to Work.

Today he was asked - What's the #1 fact or statistic that I could share with my boss so she can understand the power of strengths?

His response ought to be given to every CEO in the world.

The Gallup organization asked 198,000 employees working in 7,939 business units within 36 companies: At work do you have the opportunity to do what you do best every day?

When they compiled the findings and compared business units, they found that when employees answered STRONGLY AGREE to that question, they were....

50% more likely to work in business units with lower employee turnover
38% more likely to work in more productive business units
44% more likely to work in business units with higher customer satisfaction scores

Currently, only 17% of organizations have a majority of employees who agree that they apply their strengths at work every day.

If you don't do what you do best every day,
it's time to make some changes.

Call me at 480 332 7690 to start doing what you do best

Following my "go with the flow" plan

2007-07-11T22:08:00.000-06:00

Funny how sometimes you just don't really enjoy a vacation as planned....

When I completed my client project in June, I planned to take July off. No work, no worries, no conference calls. Just time with family and friends. A trip to Guatemala. Some goofing off time. Time just to be.

Today I spent several hours talking with the individuals who created Seeds of Help foundation. This foundation is helping many people in Guatemala through education and development programs. They are planning a group trip in October 2007. If you might be interested in going to Guatemala in October, here's a link to the contact form.

We talked about designing the organization as if it was 1, 3, 5, and 10 years from today. We discussed development efforts. In short, it was an exhilarating exercise for my brain. I thoroughly enjoyed talking with them and brainstorming on what the foundation could become!

I guess I didn't realize until today that I was feeling
a little bored and restless this week.

I met Walter Able and his family through a friend/business colleague in Columbus, IN. Actually, it was my friend's father who introduced us. He took two Spanish classes with Walter's parents. LOL

If you have a few minutes, please visit the website for Seeds of Help. It's a great organization, and I'm looking forward to being involved with their activities!

I'm still going with the flow, and I'm glad it flowed towards this opportunity.

Maybe tomorrow I'll revert back to relaxing....

"I'm sorry, but you called us too often"

2007-07-10T17:46:00.000-06:00

Tonight I heard an interesting story courtesy of the Situation Room show on CNN. A quick Google search brought me to this news story.

Sprint Nextel dumped 1,000 customers because they called Customer Service too often. At first, I was stunned because it's RARE to hear of a large company turning customers AWAY from their business.

Sprint has never been know for wanting to talk with their customers. When they established their first website, the customer care phone number wasn't listed on the site..... it wasn't listed ANYWHERE!

As a former Sprint customer, I have had more than a few difficult customer calls with them. Part of me understands why it might be necessary for multiple calls to resolve an issue. However, Sprint tells us that these customers average 40-50 calls per month.

When I heard that statistic, it made me re-evaluate the situation. Maybe Sprint did need to set some boundaries and release their problem customers. If a customer is calling that often, you have huge operational issues or an impossible-to-please customer.

Sprint views this move as a way to improve their call center efficiency and profits. I suspect they are more interested in the profits than the service.

Of course, the postscript to the story is priceless...

At the end of the letter, it tells the customers that they have until July 30 to switch to a new carrier if they want to keep their phone number. Then it says, Should you have any questions regarding the transfer of your number to another wireless carrier or about the final adjustments to your account, please call our customer care department at (877) 527-8405. See for yourself - here's the letter

I think they'd better add a few more staff to the customer care department phone lines.

Networking in Guatemala

2007-07-04T22:03:00.000-06:00

When I decided to join this missions trip to Guatemala, it was for selfish reasons. Since I'm in the process of adopting from Guatemala, I wanted to travel to the country. Going with a large group seemed like a great way to get to know some new people, visit a new country, and be safe.

Tonight I talked with one of the guys. As we're talking about my experience, he tells me about an immediate opportunity they have on a project in Louisville. Although the opportunity didn't fit my skills or interests, I referred him to someone who might be able to help.

Proof once more that Success is All about Relationships!

What irony!

2007-07-03T00:43:00.000-06:00

I'm writing from Guatemala.... just arrived. Long story short - our group of 25 didn't make the connecting flight from Dallas to Guatemala City.

What I learned from the experience: American Airlines operational supervisor Lynn Allen and her boss Jerry Smith truly exhibited calm and graciousness in a very difficult situation. They illustrated customer service in a crisis, and I will happily share this story in future programs.

Imagine 25 people who can't agree if they are going to Guatemala or asking for a refund and going home. Imagine trying to rebook 25 people in the midst of travel delays and weather problems (Dallas airport actually closed because of storms).

SIX hours..... we spent six hours getting everyone rebooked.

Today Lynn came to our gate to thank me for helping her last night. I thanked her for remaining focused on our goal: to get to Guatemala safely and as soon as possible

Although some people in the group chose to focus on asking why American didn't hold our original flight for 25 people, I chose to focus on "what can we do about it?"

Your focus will bring success or failure.

Where's your focus?

"Vacation all I ever wanted.... Vacation, happy to get away"

2007-06-29T22:28:00.000-06:00

If you don't recognize the lyrics from the Go-Go's classic 80's hit Vacation, you might need to schedule some rest & relaxation for yourself..... immediately!

This weekend I'm traveling to Guatemala.

I'll be back online soon after I return to the States.

UPDATE: YEA! I have internet access in Guatemala so I will be online periodically while I'm gone from the States

When you no longer recognize yourself

2007-06-27T11:36:00.000-06:00

Last night I was talking with a woman about an upcoming workshop she's planning. She was in the midst of developing her materials, and we were discussing powerful questions.

As a result of that conversation, I got to thinking about how I no longer recognize the person whose image is on my website.

Yes, the image on my website used to be me.... Reliable, strong corporate professional woman.

Now?

I'm still reliable. I'm still strong. I'm also still professional. But.....

I'm much, much happier today

(and that makes all the difference in the world!)

Coincidence? Not likely

2007-06-26T08:22:00.000-06:00

This week I've been finalizing my independent medical coverage. Navigating the US health insurance world of HMO's and PPO's and HIPAA rates is not something I'd suggest anyone do for fun in their spare time.

Luckily, I mentioned this situation to the woman who is taking over my responsibilities at one of my clients. She worked at a major insurance company here in Arizona, and she's calling today on my behalf.

Is it a coincidence that she started yesterday when I hit a few obstacles? No, I don't believe it is.

It's definitely another "Success is all about relationships" example.

Feel free to share your latest "Success is all about relationship" story....

"Where do you see yourself one year from today?"

2007-06-25T06:28:00.000-06:00

This weekend I read a light hearted book about two bachelors searching for the secret to a great marriage. These two 20-something guys decided to hop in an RV and travel across America interviewing couples who have been married a minimum of 40 years.

Actually, they created a documentary film and a book. Visit Project Everlasting for more information than I can do justice here.

I'm mentioning the book because of a story in one of the last chapters. Mat (one of the guys) is at dinner with his mom and grandmother. His mom starts the dinner conversation by asking the question

Where do you see yourself one year from today?

A year ago I said I'd spent my last summer in Phoenix. This week I'm wrapping up work with my current clients and leaving for an extended period of time. Next week I'll be in Guatemala. As of this weekend, I think I'm staying longer than a week.

It just feels like the right thing to do at the right time. I'm looking into some Spanish language immersion programs. It's one-on-one instruction so I can tailor my educational experience to focus on business topics like customer service, employee communication, etc.

Where will I be in June 2008?

Oh, that's easy... I'll be in England. I'm going to the Wimbledon tennis tournament next year.

StrengthsFinder 2.0

2007-06-22T07:41:00.000-06:00

If you are wondering how you can maximize your strengths for success, here's a link to visit

StrengthsFinder 2.0

This book continues Gallup research first documented in Now, Discover Your Strengths. The online assessment provides an opportunity to learn your top 5 themes. It also demonstrates how two people with the same 5 themes may develop in different ways.

Phoenix Clarification

2007-06-19T16:41:00.000-06:00

Several Phoenix clients, colleagues, and friends contacted me about my last blog.

To reassure everyone....

I'm leaving Phoenix for a long trip ~ mostly personal time for fun, adventure, and reflection.

I will return sometime in July.

Moon & Stars Aligned

2007-06-18T06:55:00.000-06:00

Did you see last night's moon & stars? Even as a child, I remember being fascinated by the constellations in our night sky.

Last night there was a slight sliver of moon and three stars aligned in a perfect diagonal. Well, maybe the first star was actually Venus because it was much more brilliant than the other two!

What does the moon and stars being in alignment have to do with business? For me, it was a sign that all is well and progressing as it will be.

In business, sometimes we choose our paths based on numbers and financial projections. Sometimes we decide because it feels right. We may not have a rational explanation. We may not be able to explain it or define it.

History can show multiple decisions based solely on feelings that created excellent results while also proving my personal theory that sometimes decisions based only on thinking create disasters.

Today's decision shapes tomorrow's choices

That's still one of my guiding principles in life and in business.

Next week I'm leaving Phoenix. Several months ago I made a decision, and that decision created a ripple effect throughout my entire life. Although I don't know what's ahead of me, I do know that the moon & stars are aligned.

Making decisions & tying up loose ends

2007-06-07T20:19:00.000-06:00

How do you make decisions? Especially decisions that will affect the long-term performance of your company?

One of my clients is involved in that kind of a decision-making process now. I admire the due diligence that the team members have put into the process. It's been challenging at times to keep the group focused on the end goal: a recommendation that is best for the organization.

At times, people have focused on their needs over the organization's needs. At times, it seemed like the group would get close to a decision and, instead of making the decision, they would identify more questions to ask.

A month ago, I told the executive responsible for this process that I would like to wrap up work by the end of June. However, I also want the group to finalize their decision before I leave.

I'm looking forward to their decision. I know the organization needs to move forward. A decision will move them towards action instead of postponing action any further. I know I'm ready for new challenges.

Their decision is part of my "letting go" process so that I can move forward. Interesting, isn't it? It seems to be human nature to "tie up loose ends" before a major life transition.

I will celebrate the day this "loose end" is decided!

Love making new connections!

2007-06-06T23:04:00.000-06:00

What a fun week so far!

Tuesday I traveled to Indianapolis. I spent the night with my friends Brenda and Rich. Brenda & I met the first week I worked at Purdue (we aren't going to mention how long ago that was). Although we don't see each other often, she's still a very special person in my life. Our relationship is one of my successes ~ we accept each other for who we are and not what we do, we listen without judgement, and we celebrate each other's lives!

Tonight I spoke at an Indianapolis Ambassadors meeting. This volunteer group focuses on doing what they can to help Indianapolis in multiple ways! If you live in Indianapolis, check out their website because they have multiple opportunities to volunteer and make a difference.

After speaking on the SOAR principles, I talked individually with some of the audience members. It's always fascinating to me that the same issues crop up again and again in organizations. Even when an organization SAYS it wants to change, sometimes the behavior of its leaders reinforces the opposite message.

If you know a leader who listens to their people AND supports their failures, tell them TODAY how much you appreciate them. We need more trustworthy, courageous leaders in this world!

I hear you! I hear you!

2007-06-04T08:03:00.000-06:00

Many people have been curious about what I'm doing to "reset my GPS" and what I'm going to do next.

Here's the short version: I'm wrapping up work with my clients around the end of June to go on a week long trip to Guatemala. Some college friends are going on a missions trip, and someone from their group had to cancel their plans to go. Although I haven't seen them for at least 5 years, I dearly want to go to Guatemala.

Since I may adopt a child from Guatemala, I look at this trip as a way to know if I want to have life-long ties to this country.

I'm also upgrading my website in July so stay tuned for those changes in late July or August.

Other news will be coming soon....

Resetting my GPS

2007-05-11T11:06:00.000-06:00

This blog will be offline for a few more weeks while I reset my Global Positioning System.

I love those little gizmos, and it was fascinating to watch them being used in a recent Amazing Race episode. This woman kept punching buttons on the device. She didn't understand why she was seeing "error messages" on it. Each time the military person would reset it, he would say very politely, "ma'am, don't punch the buttons. Let the device guide you."

Lately, I feel like I've been punching buttons on my GPS device. No wonder there are error messages popping up in all areas of my life.

Stay tuned... I'll return when my GPS is reset and functioning properly.

Yes, I'm Still Alive

2007-04-16T16:56:00.000-06:00

Last Tuesday's travel nightmare (more than 20 hours of traveling from Illinois to Arizona - never mind the gory details) set the tone for the rest of the week.

I've had computer problems and may have a failing hard drive on my laptop (replacement computer will probably be ordered this week).

Client meetings keep getting re-arranged.

And, of course, I started sneezing, sniffling, and feeling rotten sick with a headache....

Boy, am I glad last week's over!?!?

Isn't it interesting how the more you complain
the more there is to complain about?

I'm a firm believer in focusing on the good and for most of last week... I did the opposite!

Once I took responsibility for making my day better, I focused on the great things that happened last week.....

spending time with my parents,
enjoying a fascinating conversation with another business owner
on my first flight that got canceled,
arriving home SAFELY after a long 20 hours of traveling,
working with great people who didn't mind that I was yawning,
spending time with some girlfriends this weekend....

yes, it is ALL good!

More later this week...

There's Never Enough Time

2007-04-09T21:45:00.000-06:00

When you're with someone you love, do you ever notice how time flies? It feels like you've just arrived, and now it's time to go again.

While I visited with my parents this week, we talked about some options I'm considering for my summer. My dad is always practical and wants to make sure that I have enough income to take care of my bills. My mom senses that something is bothering me so she wants to me to think through whatever is going on.

They can't make my decisions for me. Although I'm sure they have definite opinions, they have been very careful to remain neutral.

That's one of the reasons I love them dearly. Most of the time I can tell them what's going on in my life, and they listen. Even if they don't agree with me, they still listen.

One of my childhood friends lost her dad last week. At his funeral, she told another friend, "I wish I had come home more often."

There's never enough time to spend with your parents.

Surprises Gone Awry

2007-04-04T06:05:00.000-06:00

I've been trying to arrange a couple of surprises lately, and it feels like the Universe just isn't cooperating with me.

Last week I mailed a card to a business colleague. It was returned for more postage because of its "irregular size" - seemed like a normal card to me.

Today is my mom's birthday, and I've been planning a visit to surprise her. In addition to my visit, I was trying to orchestrate my grandma (my mom's mom) to visit on the same weekend. Grandma can't make it because my aunt (aka Grandma's chauffeur) can't arrange her schedule to leave.

Unfortunately, my part of mom's surprise also went haywire yesterday. One of my parents' friends passed away on Sunday, and the visitation is scheduled for tonight.... at the same time I'm scheduled to arrive. My dad didn't want to ruin my surprise, but he was also having difficulty getting my mom to agree to go early to the visitation.

So, I had to tell my mom I was coming home. She was totally surprised. She said my dad hadn't even whispered a peep about it.

Sometimes the things we try hardest to accomplish don't happen. It's a fact of life. When it doesn't happen the way we want it to happen, it's still important to recognize all the good that did happen.

With my latest surprises-that-disappeared, I have lots of good.....

My business colleague will still receive her card. Maybe the delay means that she will receive it on the perfect day when she needs some encouragement.

My mom is still thrilled that I'm coming for a visit (she's especially happy that I'll be in church on Easter). I will still spend time with the people who matter most to me. I may even gain a new client or two while I'm there.

Next time something goes awry with your plans, STOP complaining and START celebrating!

Find a way to see that what actually happened is BETTER than what you planned.

When you focus on what's good in the situation, you'll feel better and it's more likely you'll create MORE good things in the future.

Mentoring Success

2007-04-03T07:32:00.000-06:00

Last night I watched the men's NCAA Championship game. I was really more interested in the stories that weren't told.

A little-told story is how Billy Donovan (Florida's head coach) was a mediocre player until he DECIDED he wanted to be a better player. He approached his coach Rick Pitino for advice and he DID what Pitino suggested. He became his conference's player of the year as a result of his hard work.

Rick Pitino shared the story of Billy's determination, effort, and success in his book, Success is a Choice. Playing for Pitino truly created an opportunity for Billy to practice and strengthen his leadership skills.

The relationship between Billy Donovan and Rick Pitino continued after his playing days ended. Billy was an assistant coach at University of Kentucky under Pitino. The success they experienced at Kentucky led to the opportunity for him to become a head coach.

Last night the commentators mentioned other men who have mentored Billy Donovan, including NFL football coach Bill Belichik.

In honor of the man who offered Billy words of advice years ago, I'd like to suggest you look around today.

Is there someone within your circle of influence who could use some suggestions to succeed? What's stopping you from providing some needed advice?

Is there someone who you want to emulate? What's stopping you from asking for advice?

Today's YOUR Day!

Decide to Succeed.

Ask, Listen, and Learn.

When you stumble

2007-04-02T07:19:00.000-06:00

We've all made mistakes or done stupid things or said something we regret. Part of being human seems to include offending other people.

What you do after you stumble strengthens or weakens your relationship with the person or people involved.

Sometimes admitting you stumbled is enough to restore the person's faith in you and your business.

Sometimes an apology isn't enough.

Last fall I had a difficult conversation with someone very dear to my heart. I felt wronged by something they said. When I expressed my hurt, all they heard was anger. As soon as I hung up the phone, I felt remorse and hurt. I tried to make it right by apologizing because our relationship was important to me, but the relationship didn't survive the apology.

The same thing that happens in a personal relationship can happen in business.

When you stumble in business, it is possible you will harm a relationship beyond repair. Any customer service representative can provide numerous stories from people saying, "I'm never coming here again, never buying your product, never using your service, etc."

What happens when an apology isn't enough?

You've done your best to apologize and make things right. The other person or business isn't satisfied.

Walk away. You may still want to do business with the person or company, but they don't. If you pursue them in hopes that they will understand, you risk creating resentment on top of their dissatisfaction. It isn't easy, but sometimes it makes more sense to end the relationship.

Let it go. Let go of the judgement. Let go of the anger. Let go of the resentment. It is normal for you to feel all these emotions about a business relationship. If you harbor any of this negativity, it will affect your other business relationships.

Remember the lesson you learned from this situation. Write a new policy. Provide additional employee training. Do whatever it takes to prevent the same behavior from happening in the future.

Written any letters lately?

2007-03-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

Writing letters used to be a wonderful way to connect with loved ones. Today in an age of electronic communications with email, text messages, and instant messages, we are shocked to receive an actual letter written by hand.

Most people value a letter written by hand more than an email or text message. Knowing that someone chose to take time to write you means more in today's electronic age.

Today I'd like to suggest that you pick 5 clients and write them a letter. Sure, you can use the fancy letterhead paper for a lovely handwritten note.

Express your appreciation for their decision to do business with you. They chose to work with you, and you want to thank them for that decision.

Be sincere because people can sense when you're not.

Be succinct. A few sentences from the heart will create more impact than a 50-page proposal printed on glossy paper in full color.

Focus on them. Remind them of what they felt or what they said before they decided to work with you. Compare that with where they are now and highlight the good things that have happened while you've been working with them.

Remember that this is a note of gratitude and appreciation, not a thinly veiled attempt to sell them something. Even if you have a great new service or the "perfect" new widget that will help them, now is not the time to mention it.

Getting UN-stuck

2007-03-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

I love to play a "what if" game with friends and family ~ especially when someone is feeling stuck, discouraged, afraid, etc.

I'll ask, "Okay, imagine that it's a year from now. Tell me about your life. Tell me the best thing that's happened to you in the last 12 months. Tell me what you're so excited about that you tell everyone. Describe what's fun and what you like best about what you're doing or where you're living or who you're loving."

Sometimes it takes time to get a response from them. Sometimes they are so down in the dumps that they can't see straight.

I'm patient. I wait.

Eventually, they say something. That something leads to more conversation which leads to different thoughts which lead to better feelings which lead to more actions.

My "what if..." game also applies to the business world.

Take a few minutes and see your business as if it's March 29, 2008. Imagine what you want and answer these questions:

What's the best thing that's happened in the last 12 months?

What are you so excited about that you're investing money, time, and people towards doing?

What do you like best about the work you do?

What do you enjoy most each day?

Natural rhythm

2007-03-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

Earlier today I was talking with someone about the importance of following your natural rhythm.

Being a survivor of corporate America, I struggled for years feeling like I "should" be at work in my Catalyst office by 8 a.m. If it was after 9, I'd truly feel a sense of failure because I wasn't working hard enough. If I wasn't working hard enough, my business would fail and then I'd have to return to a full-time J-O-B with an employer telling me what to do.

Yes, I experienced lots of "doom and gloom" feelings from those thoughts. Ugh!

Now I recognize that I feel much better and get more accomplished by following my natural rhythm. When I allow my body to wake me up, I start my day more peacefully. I still get everything done that needs to be done, and I'm happier as I do everything.

That feeling of flow is important.

When we push in traffic to get somewhere in a hurry, we are interrupting our flow. When we constantly check our watches and worry that our schedule has slipped again, we are interrupting our flow. When we rush from here to there and back again, our bodies feel the stress and our minds shut down.

Why are we rushing through our lives?

Just for today identify one action that will create more peace, more joy, more love, more happiness in your life. Start with one action and enjoy the results.

Once you experience the ease of living in a natural rhythm, you'll do more to go with the flow.

Who do you know and how can you help?

2007-03-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

Success in business is directly related to who you know and how you help people.

Here's a quick exercise to demonstrate the power of helping others....

Before you quit working today, list who you know on a piece of paper. This exercise is designed to be quick so only one piece of paper is needed. If it's notebook sized, that's good. If it's stationery sized, that's good also.

If someone crosses your mind, put their name on the paper. It truly doesn't matter if the names represent co-workers, your boss, your neighbors, friends, etc. Just list whatever names come to you as you're staring at this piece of paper.

After you have a list, start at the top of the list. Ask yourself "how can I help Person A today?" Write down whatever occurs to you. It doesn't have to make sense and some of the things that occur to you may very well seem really odd. Just write them down.

When I did this exercise, here are some of my ideas.

How can I help Kelly today? I can offer to listen the next time he calls. It seems like something's on his mind and maybe he needs a willing ear.

How can I help my mom today? She wants to go visit my grandmother. Maybe I can make arrangements to visit her and drive with her to Tennessee. I can call and ask her about that.

How can I help Heather today? Heather is establishing herself in a male-dominated industry. I can encourage her to keep going because she has valuable services to offer.

How can I help Tanya today? Tanya needs some help with marketing emails she's sending to her clients. I can offer to show her how to set up a distribution list so that she maintains her clients' privacy.

You get the idea....

After completing your list of actions, start contacting the people. Some people may be startled by your offer to help. Even if they don't accept your offer, I guarantee they will appreciate being offered a tangible and specific action.

This exercise will provide ideas on how you can nurture your current relationships. Following through on your ideas will strengthen the bonds you have with the people on your list.

The benefit of strong relationships is S U C C E S S!