Speaking Anxiety - Are You Making This Mistake?

by Janet Hilts

You have many opportunities to "perform" inside your business. Basically, that's any time you're talking - on the phone, in your mastermind group, working with clients, and in formal presentations or workshops. For a lot of people, these are times when stage fright kicks in.

Fear of speaking affects most of us in some form. In fact, surveys find that we're more afraid of speaking than we are of dying! Because stage fright is so common, Jerry Seinfeld joked that "at a funeral, the average person would rather be the one in the casket than the one giving the eulogy."

Consequently, some people avoid speaking in their business as much as they can, preferring to hide behind the computer. This is understandable, but unfortunate. Other people forge ahead by bucking up and powering through their fear. Hats off to you! At least you're out there doing it.

OK - many speaking coaches and psychologists endorse this as the best approach to getting over that fear - this powering through. I disagree. I believe they back this because they don't know there's another way to eliminate the anxiety.

Here's why bulldozing through your fear is not effective as a business strategy: Your anxiety is still high. And that creates these problems:

• You're on edge and can easily be thrown off course by a microphone that doesn't work, or an introduction that's not quite what you want.
• Your listener feels your tension and can misinterpret what it means.
• Your creativity is cramped, making it hard to think on your feet or answer questions well.
• Your voice is affected - maybe shaky, maybe too soft, or monotone -- so you don't sound strong.
• It's hard to convey compassion or certainty, so there's a distance created between you and your audience.

These stage fright factors present problems in coaching, teaching or selling - all of which are built on the relationship you're building through your speaking.

So powering through your stage fright is a poor choice. OK - It's true -- some people just keep doing that and over time they DO reduce their anxiety. But there are people who have been speaking for 20 years and the fear is still there!

What's the answer? Concentrate on eliminating the fear first. It doesn't have to be a long drawn-out process. That's old school thinking.

There are several rapid-change techniques and processes available to help get rid of that anxiety permanently. EFT or "tapping" is what I use with clients. And if you choose another path, that's great - just be clear that you DON'T have to "feel the fear and do it anyway." Find a way to get rid of that stage fright and start enjoying all your opportunities!

From the desk of Janet Hilts MPH, EFT-ADV
http://SpeakUpAndShine.com

Copyright © 2010 Janet Hilts, Speak Up & Shine | Clearing Pathways, Inc.

Going the Extra Mile will Get You Even Farther

by Jack Canfield

In life, victory often goes to those who make a 100% commitment to the outcome. They give it their all and put everything they have into getting their desired result... whether it be an Olympic gold medal, the top sales award, a perfect dinner party, or an A in microbiology.

It's a simple concept, yet you'd be surprised how many people don't stick to their disciplines, follow through with their plans, or go the extra mile.

Are you someone who consistently goes the extra mile and routinely over delivers on your promises?

It's rare these days, but it's the hallmark of high achievers who know that exceeding expectations helps you stand above the crowd. Almost by force of habit, successful people simply do more.

As a result, they experience not only greater financial rewards for their extra efforts but also a personal transformation, becoming more self-confident, more self-reliant, and more influential with those around them.

These high achievers stand out from the crowd because of their extra efforts. They are unwilling to give up, even in the face of difficult times.

They get the promotions, they get the loyal customers, they grow their businesses twice as fast, they get financial rewards, job security, and they go home feeling satisfied.

Do you exceed expectations?

Do you surprise people with more than they were expecting from you?

Do you have the opportunity - but also the personal initiative - to go the extra mile?

To be successful you must change your thinking. You can only win by making extra efforts. People who go the extra mile always get payback. You will discover yourself becoming more self-confident, more self-reliant and more influential with those around you.

People notice the special services and all the small touches that make dealing with you so pleasurable. And when they are talking to their friends they will mention you and recommend you because you are the one who stands out.

People will see that you pay attention to detail, that you consider all the small things that really make a business successful, that you care about your image, and that you belong with all the other people who work hard to achieve. You will attract new business and new opportunities.

Listen to any success story and you will hear of someone who worked exceptionally hard to get what they wanted.

You’ll hear how they put in the extra time, did what wasn’t part of their job description, and over-delivered on what was asked of them. You’ll hear how they stuck at it until they broke through, and usually you’ll hear how it only took them a couple of years to do it.

What have you been doing for the past couple of years? Think of what you could accomplish if you made it a habit to exceed everyone’s expectations. Image what doors could be open to you if you decided to be of better service and value.

How are you willing to go the extra mile? What kind of extra service are you willing to provide in order to stand out from the rest? What areas of your life could you be giving more of your effort and time, becoming more valuable, and improving your reputation?

Be willing to treat everyone like you’d treat your dearest friend. Don’t skimp on service. Don’t be mediocre or run of the mill. Show people what you are capable of. Show them that you care about your image and reputation.

When it comes to success, the people who are willing to go the extra mile get there that much faster!

* * *

Are you "stuck" in this area?
Send me your most pressing question about this topic, then join me for our monthly Ask Jack Canfield Tele-Clinic on November 3rd. www.AskJackCanfield.com
© 2010 The Canfield Training Group
All Rights Reserved.


Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

Women Entrepreneurs The Secrets of Success for Friday, October 8th

"Simply Sue" Falcone

As a gifted international motivational and inspirational speaker, facilitator, and published author, Sue Falcone uses her unique presentation of humor and energy to touch lives and change hearts.

Skilled as a former AT&T and Lucent Technologies Executive, and Direct Sales Business Owner, Sue is a Dale Carnegie Speaker and Trainer graduate, certified from the Zig Ziglar Leadership Training Group, and a Bob Pike Creative Training Techniques graduate.

As a speaker for more than forty years with a vast background in communications, sales and marketing, customer service, financial counseling, time management, writing, and personal spiritual growth; Sue is available for Business Workshops/Seminars, as a Keynote Speaker, Women's Groups, Retreats, and Large Church Groups.

Sue is married to Carmen, and together they have a blended family of 4 awesome children, and 6 fabulous grandchildren. She loves the beach, walking, music, climbing lighthouses, reading, and helping others.

Visit Sue at www.simplysuespeaks.com and see additional testimonials, speaking topics, and booking information. You can view Sue on www.youtube.com/simplysuespeaks, follow her on www.twitter.com/suefalcone, join her fan page at www.facebook.com/SimplySue Speaks, and see her recommendations and fee schedule at www.linkedin.com/simplysue.

*Due to BTR technical difficulties, Sue Falcone's show will be rescheduled

Women Entrepreneurs The Secrets of Success for Wednesday, October 6th

Joy Chudacoff 

Heralded as “The Coach for Women” in the millennium, Joy Chudacoff has x-ray vision when it comes to helping women discover their Big Ideas, Dreams and Goals! Joy draws on both her personal life and entrepreneurial experiences to support women in achieving better ways of living. It’s her passion, her purpose and her business. She is a Professional Certified Coach, highly skilled group leader, motivational speaker and a gifted communicator.

An entrepreneur for over 2 decades, Joy knows what it’s like to be a woman who integrates family and passionate work together. As a wife and mother of two, Joy understands the importance of self-care, family and reaching her entrepreneurial dreams of supporting women. Joy is on the Advisory Board for Women for Hire as well as a founding Board Member for The Broad’s Circle. She is the Business and Life Coach for the National Association of Entrepreneur Moms and serves as a Mastermind Leader for the Ali Brown Millionaire Protégé Club. Joy was awarded the 2009 Ali Brown Millionaire Protégé Club Platinum Excellence Award for having the most successful business programs that achieved growth in terms of clients and income.

Whether you’re looking at what’s next in your life, are a new business owner or have been in business years, Joy has easy, proven and simple programs that you can take advantage of to get everything in life that you want and deserve. Visit Joy’s website, www.SmartWomenSolutions.com, where you’ll find more articles by Joy plus information about her Women’s Success Circles, Smart Women Smart Solutions Coach Certification Programs at www.SuccessCircleCoach.com, Speaking engagements, teleclasses and upcoming events for women who are ready to live their Big Ideas, Dreams and Goals. Be sure to visit Joy’s blog, www.SmartWomenSolutions.com/blog.

8:00 pm EDT
Listen to the live or archived show at:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/CoachDeb

Smart Women Practice Quality Not Quantity

by Joy Chudacoff

Last weekend, I spent the day alone with my 7 year old daughter Jenna and it was grand. We went shopping, had lunch together and enjoyed a great afternoon. I felt a much stronger bond with her when the day ended. This got me thinking about how it’s the quality of the time you spend and not the quantity that matters in every area of your life.

Let’s face it, women have very busy, demanding lives. We are mothers, wives, partners, daughters, siblings, friends, community activists, employees and business owners. There are times when quantity is all I have to give because my plate is overflowing with “to-do’s. I’m there physically but not present in the moment. I’m busy “doing” rather than “being” because I’m thinking about so many things at once. Can you relate?

Last weekend, I was reminded that it’s about quality time and being present for the important parts of our lives. As I reflect on my special time with Jenna, I realize that this can be carried over to every aspect of my life. I can apply this thinking to my self-care, my relationships and my business.

Here are a few quick tips on how you can bring more quality time into your self-care, relationships and business:

1. Your Self-Care – This is typically the last thing on your list—right? Sometimes, when I talk about nurturing yourself first, I get these weird looks from women as if I’m some sort of an alien. It’s not natural for women to put themselves before others. We are nurturers by nature, however it’s essential that you give yourself quality time so that you can recharge your own battery. By the way, I didn’t truly understand this concept until after the age of 40. Getting a massage, practicing solitude or taking a bubble bath are great ways to nurture yourself.

2. Your Relationships – Spending quality time is so much more important than the quantity of time we spend with our family and friends. I find that an afternoon or evening with one of my children or husband where I’m truly present is worth more than spending an entire weekend while being distracted by life’s twists and turns. Schedule some “special” time with those you love. It will create a stronger bond and you’ll walk away feeling much more connected.

3. Your Business – If you aren’t careful, you can find yourself working “in” your business rather than “on” your business. It’s easy to get caught up in all the emails, social media and busy work that is part of running a business. Every week I have a meeting with myself and get very present about the direction of my business and goals. I’m checking- in to make sure that the steps I’m taking daily, weekly and monthly are in alignment with where I want to go. It is only then that I can communicate effectively to my team about the vision of Smart Women Smart Solutions®.

I have the opportunity to work with some amazing smart women. They are women with Big Ideas, Dreams and Goals which means they are leading very full lives.

Sometimes the feeling of guilt can creep in when they are on the journey to getting what they want and deserve in life. I invite you to schedule in some quality time for own self-care, your cherished relationships and your business goals.

Having this realization that it’s about quality time not quantity time sure makes me feel a lot better about all of the roles I play in my life. It can for you too.

*****
© 2010 Joy Chudacoff

Joy Chudacoff, ICF, PCC, is the founder of Smart Women Smart Solutions®, a Professional Certified Coach to 1000’s of women, Motivational Speaker, and Entrepreneur. She publishes a weekly buzz generating ezine, Reflections On Life and Business for Women Entrepreneurs. If you’re ready take your life and your business to the next level, get your FREE Tips, 2 FREE Reports and FREE MP3 now at http://www.CreatingTheSpark.com.

The Power of Commitment

by Jackie Lapin

Most of us are a paralyzed at the fear of making change, of letting go of what we know, of taking a risk. It is the nature of our ego to hang onto what's familiar...what we can be sure of. Why let go of a sure thing for something far less sure? And when we reach the precipice that requires us to jump, we fall back, afraid of that unknown future. Noted motivational coach and speaker David Neagle calls this The Terror Barrier.

Now you can waffle all you want. And just not decide. It's OK to assuage yourself with a life lived in fear, complacency or downright misery. Whether it's only one aspect of your life –relationship, career, addiction, personal development, etc.-- or all of it. And you can feel alone and stuck.

Or you can MAKE A COMMITMENT and watch the magic happen!

Here's where the ride gets fun! The Universe Rewards Commitment. Once you make a Commitment, all of the doors will open in your favor--in sequence! You may not know exactly how you're going to get where you've planned to go, but once you make The Commitment, you will be guided to the next step. And then the next. And the next one after that.

It's like that scene in just about every Indiana Jones or jungle adventure you've seen in the movies. The hero arrives at the chasm with no means across, and some wizened character says, "Trust—Just take the first step." And sure enough, a hanging bridge appears just as the hero's foot steps forward and with each step, more of the bridge appears.

That's the Power of Commitment. I'll bet that if you look back on your life, you can see this Universal Law in action. When you were passionate about something and you made the Commitment to move forward, all of a sudden the doors started to fly open, people you needed showed up, synchronicities appeared, everything just fell into place.

So what Commitment are you avoiding? Is it a big one or a little one? Does it involve habit change, career change, financial investment, home change, relationship change, releasing a co-dependent person from your life, addressing an addiction, or avoiding confronting a health challenge, for example.

So here's a good exercise to start getting you comfortable with the idea of Commitment. Write your Commitment at the top of a page of paper. Then make a list of pros and cons. Make sure to add on the "cons" such things as: "I'm unhappy. I'm afraid. I can live with what I'm making even though it's poorly paying and I hate my job. I don't feel well, but if I have the operation, I could be worse."

Then on the pros, write the upside: "I am so happy. I feel free. I have more money. My kids are benefiting because I feel radiant and can give them more of my time. I'm loving life. I have a great new home that I love. I'm living addiction-free. I don't have to worry any more now that I've had the operation.".... you get the picture.

Most of us focus on the risks, but hopefully this exercise reminds you of the extraordinary upside—and how could you miss when the whole Universe is lining up to help you once you Make The Commitment!

So stop waffling! Engage the Power of Commitment to create your dream and free yourself to move forward!

Just remember however, that once you reach the next level, you will likely again find yourself at a crossroads. You can fall back to fear, or Commitment and trust again because you know the exhilaration of succeeding through Commitment. Take that first step!


Jackie Lapin tours the world teaching Conscious Creation and Personal Frequency Management. She is the author of "The Art of Conscious Creation; How You Can Transform the World." Sign up to receive Jackie Lapin's life-changing fr*ee ebook: Beyond The Law Of Attraction: How Conscious Creation Can Help You Create The Blueprint For Your Future by going to http://www.theartofconsciouscreation.com/blueprint-ebook.html. To explore more books on Conscious Creation, go to Jackie's online bookstore for the Conscious Creator, www.manifestbooks.com, where you can also sign up to receive a Manifesting Tip a Day.

Three Steps to Your Quantum Leap

by David Neagle

I’ve been sharing with you some of the wisdom from Price Pritchett’s book, You2. Last time, I said that when you want to make a quantum leap, you have to quit trying harder.

More effort is not the answer.

If you want to completely change your outcome, you have to change your approach to the outcome. You have to shift gears, follow new patterns of thought and action.

Pritchett offers several strategies to help you make your own quantum leap. Here are three:

1. Ignore Conventional Approaches

Pritchett writes that we achieve conventional growth because we think along conventional lines. We make modest improvements because we’re not looking for anything more than that.

Quantum leaps require you to abandon the status quo, to ignore the usual.

I’ll be the first to admit that bucking convention is easier said than done. Unconventional approaches are going to bring to the surface any emotional issues or pain you may have around being unusual.

For example, you may fear being embarrassed or being considered “weird.” Perhaps, in addition, “big shots” were ridiculed in your family and neighborhood, so you fear losing love if you excel.

To counteract those fears, you have to recognize them when they come up for you, and then move through them. Take the action regardless of the fear. After you do that a couple of times, you’ll realize that your subconscious can scare you, but it doesn’t have to stop you.

You also have to become more solid in who you are. That way, your results won’t derail you either. If you fail, it’s okay. You’re not devastated by the failure because it doesn’t define you. And if you succeed, that’s okay too.

2. Get Ruthless About Doing Something Different

Pritchett writes that the you-squared approach requires an abrupt change in behavior. You have to get ruthless about trying something different. Look for a paradoxical move. Be illogical. Use finesse instead of effort.

For example, unlike the fly I told you about, if you’re banging your head against the glass, stop and look for an open door. If you’re pushing against the river, try going with the flow.

It’s crucial that you do something new. Faith in the familiar blinds you to better pathways. You may not know what that better pathway is yet, but as long as you rely upon what you’ve always done, you’re not going to find it.

However, if you break out of your rut, second-guess your routines, overcome the reliance upon your old methodologies, you will open yourself up to receive new, inspired ideas. And with those new ideas and actions can come the solution for your quantum leap.

3. Seek the Elegant Solution

While you’re experimenting, keep in mind that you’re seeking an elegant solution, an approach that is simple, precise, efficient and neat, less demanding of your energies and emotions. As Pritchett writes, it will be a deft move or a path of less resistance.

You really can accomplish more by doing less. But in order to do that, you have to think beyond what common sense would allow.

Do you recall my exercise from last time? I wanted you to ask yourself how you could accomplish ten times more in your business by doing less. What ideas did you come up with? Did you get discouraged because they seemed unrealistic? Or, did you trust, like I said, that if you have the idea, the way to do it will show up as well?

Go find your list and keep those ideas alive. Allow brilliance to strike. It may not come in the way that you expect, but it will come.

Solutions exist all around you. Open up your mind, experiment in your actions and let yourself leap.

© Copyright 2010 – David Neagle’s Life Is Now Inc., All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

David Neagle, Million Dollar Income Acceleration Coach, mentors entrepreneurs to quantum leap their current businesses past the 7-Figure income level in just 12 months. David invites you to download—as his GIFT to you—his legendary “Art of Success” 4-hour audio program. This audio series is a tremendously compelling and comprehensive program that demonstrates—once and for all—that Success has nothing to do with “getting” or “achieving”, and everything to do with WHO we must BE to manifest our hearts’ true desires. For an additional bonus, Join our Text for Success mobile messaging program! Simply Te xt: success to the number: 85800

8 Ways Your Mentors/Advisors Can Help You Grow Your Business

by Maria Simone

There are several distinctions that can be made when describing someone who is thriving, or has the potential to thrive, in business. One of the things I look at is how well they’ve surrounded themselves with movers and shakers in their industry, influencers, investors, business experts, and so forth. Having such a diversity of talent close by can help accelerate your success in ways beyond your wildest imagination. Here are 8 mutually-agreeable ways you can work with Mentors and Advisors to help achieve your goals. Access www.the15minutementor.com to quickly find the Mentor resources you need next.

1.  Let them share their experience of having made the journey.
Have someone on hand who has traveled a similar path in business and ask them to help you with future pacing. They can easily stay a few steps ahead of you because they’ve been there and know the trail. Knowing your options means fewer obstacles, less risk and acceleration to your goals.

2.  Allow them to offer Moral Support.
It’s imperative to have someone around you who can be your moral compass and/or provide emotional support. That will help you stay grounded and reduce the number of “what was I thinking” crazy kind of days that occasionally do pop up.

3.  Position them as a funding magnet.
Someone who has raised capital and turned it into profit or has achieved success in your industry can probably duplicate their efforts. This is a huge risk reducer and investors like that.

4.  Receive CEO/Leadership Development Support.
You’ll want support as you evolve your inner-self so that as your business grows, you’re able to effectively lead your team.

5.  Help understanding financial forecasting.
You may have “people” that manage your books or run your numbers but it’s also helpful to get perspective from someone who has managed millions or even billions in revenue if this person isn’t already on your payroll.

6.  Let the connectors open doors for you.
Why stand in line when you don’t have to. Let someone else make the necessary introductions to new business and other opportunities. Move past the gatekeepers.

7.  Ask the creatives to help you innovate.
Brainstorm with your creative and visionary advisors to come up with amazing new product or marketing ideas or ways to package it all.

8.  Allow the influencers to help celebritize you.
If you are associated with people who are highly regarded in the public’s eye, chances are your status will also be elevated as they make your connection public. Similar to what a book endorsement does for an author.

About Maria Simone

Maria Simone is a dynamic speaker, author, and transformational business strategist. As the “Passion To Prosperity Diva”, http://passion2prosperity.com she helps entrepreneurs package their talents to create 6 or 7 figure businesses. Maria has started 4 businesses, has had online and offline success, and raised over $1.5 million in funding for various projects. She’s appeared on ABC News, Fox TV, and in Business Week, Success Magazine, and many other publications.

Feng Shui For Vision Boards -- Fire Up Your Goals

by Kathryn Weber

A vision board is a powerful way to visually represent the aspirations and goals you have for your life with images.

The images can either be pictures of what you would like, a house where you'd like to live, a car you'd like to drive, or can be a title you aspire to, such as writer, actor, president.

People respond well to images. They inspire us in ways that words don't. Combining a goals list with a vision board is especially powerful.

In feng shui, when compass feng shui, flying star or another type of feng shui merge together, this is called "compounding" feng shui. The feng shui, because it's multiplied, becomes more powerful. The simple act of writing out your goals is powerful and then to compound it with a vision board makes it more powerful still.

Add feng shui to the equation and you have a vision board that can propel you to a whole new place. Are you ready for that? I mean, really, ready? Many people say they want something new, but new can be scary. Just be ready to move forward if you do this!

A vision board is a natural fit with feng shui.

Feng shui focuses on what is seen and unseen -- energy that is both intangible and tangible. We understand that at any given moment whatever we are surrounded by influences us. If we are surrounded by mess, we may feel frustrated, annoyed, and not know why. If sad pictures or painful reminders are in our presence, we may feel depressed and unable to move ahead in our lives.

Select symbols that are meaningful to you

Feng shui understands that symbols are influencers and important ones at that. When you are selecting symbols for your vision board, select symbols meaningful to you. That might include the number "13." Many people think it's a negative number, but if it's meaningful in a positive way to you, then include it.

Select symbols from the 8 Aspirations

These are the principles that feng shui is founded on. Each aspiration is tied to a particular direction. Career is the aspiration of the north, health is the east, travel the northwest. Next, using the directions from the bagua, place the corresponding aspiration is the appropriate corner.

Start with the north or career in the bottom middle of your vision board (or top middle like the board above). Then moving in a clockwise direction, add the aspiration symbol for northeast in the lower left corner. This could be a book if you're a student, a deity for spirituality if that's your interest or any symbol of general wisdom.

The next corner is the left, or east corner. Place an image of health, a lush plant, a picture of a woman jogging or any symbol that is meaningful for health for you personally. Continue going around your board in this manner. This clockwise movement adds stimulation to your vision board, going from yin (north/water) to yang (south/fame/reputation) and back to yin again.

Don't forget to add a spark of life

It's important that you have an energizing spark on your vision board. It should appear vibrant, active, interesting. Place your most important image in the center of your vision board. This can be the central theme of your board if you like. You can then use symbols that support that central theme and still follow the directions of the bagua.

Lastly, every item must be "energized" in order for it to imbue precious yang energy. To create this, simply add something red on your vision board. You could also loop a piece of red ribbon through your board or glue red paper to the back.

Place your vision board prominently

You won't get very far if you can't see where you're going.

That's why it's vital that you make sure you place your board where you see it prominently and often. This will help to encourage you and keep you focused on what you want in life and where you want your goals to take you.

© K Weber Communications LLC 2002-2010
Kathryn Weber is the publisher of the Red Lotus Letter Feng Shui E-zine and certified feng shui consultant in classical Chinese feng shui. Kathryn helps her readers improve their lives and generate more wealth with feng shui. For more information and to receive her FREE Ebook "Easy Money - 3 Steps to Building Massive Wealth with Feng Shui" visit www.redlotusletter.com and learn the fast and fun way how feng shui can make your life more prosperous and abundant!

"5 Steps to Thinking Big and Living Grand"

by Ali Brown

I know what it's like to think that the lifestyle I want is out of reach. Just 10 years ago, I would lie on my bed in my tiny 400-square-foot studio apartment and flip through magazines, wishing I could have the luxurious lifestyles I read about.

Despite that negative, nagging voice in my head that reminded me I could barely afford rent, I'm now living a beautiful life I created for myself from scratch. Instead of moping around an apartment I can barely afford, I now have the means to travel and to inspire others. Last year I took a solo retreat to Maui, and this year I vacationed at an exclusive beach resort in Cabo San Lucas.

How'd I do it? By deciding not to settle for being average and thinking BIG. Changing your mindset can be a challenge, but the rewards are well worth the cost. Here's how you can get started...

1. Eliminate negativity. This includes negative self-talk, too. Why would the universe bring you a better life if you don't appreciate what you already have? Show gratitude for everything in your life now. Those seemingly bad days happen for a reason, so whenever you find yourself thinking, "I can't do this" or "that's impossible," reframe it as the opposite. "I can do that, that is possible..." You owe it to yourself to give yourself the love and support you need to succeed.

2. Document your dreams. Earlier this year, I wanted to manifest a new house, so I listed all of the qualities in my dream home: a 3-car garage, workout room, walk-in closets... (Don't censor yourself! Anything is possible, even if it seems silly now.) I also bought some real estate magazines, cut out pictures of homes I love, and created a collage. I'm constantly updating my "dream board," which is now proudly displayed in my new house!

3. Surround yourself ONLY with supportive people. I only shared my house dream with friends and family I knew would support my decision. (NOT those prone to phrases like "Are you crazy? Who do you think you are? Ms. Trump?") Your true friends and family will be happy to share in your dream. If you don't have anyone else to support you, then it's time to make new friends - join a networking group or a mastermind.

4. Decide, believe, and watch for clues. It's not enough to make a decision to work towards your dreams. You must also truly believe in them! Don't worry about HOW your dreams will manifest themselves. Watch for clues, and the HOW will find you, perhaps in the form of a new business partner or a new client. But remember that the dream comes before the HOW.

5. ACT on opportunities when they appear. Action involves risk. You might have to hire more people to help with a new client. You'll need time to research that prospective business partner. Or figure out how to hire that amazing new mentor. But it's up to YOU to take action when the path is revealed. The universe is supporting you, and each step will bring you closer to your dreams.

© 2010 Ali International, LLC

Self-made multimillionaire entrepreneur and Inc. 500 CEO Ali Brown is devoted to creating financial freedom for women globally through the power of entrepreneurship. To learn how to create wealth and live an extraordinary life now, register for her free weekly articles at www.AliBrown.com

Expand Your Prosperity Consciousness

by Jack Canfield

Understanding the relationship among consciousness, action, and prosperity is crucial to your success.

In my seminars I sometimes stand in front of the room and hold up a $100 bill, state that I’m wiling to give it away, and ask if anyone would like to have it.

Usually lots of people raise their hand – and do nothing else. I keep waiving the dollar bill until someone finally jumps out of his or her chair, walks or runs all the way up to the stage and reaches up to take the bill.

There are two lessons here. One is that money goes to the person who takes the necessary action. The other is that a certain state of consciousness makes it possible to take action – or to avoid it.

When I ask people what kept them from walking up to the front of the room to claim the money, I always get the same answers: they felt shy. They worried about what other people would think. They thought it was a trick. Those answers come from a consciousness dominated by fear, scarcity, and cynicism.

The same forces can operate in our daily lives. In each moment we either feed those forces – or replace them with something better. Following are some essential ways to expand your prosperity consciousness and claim the wealth you deserve.

Monitor Your Conversations

We swim in a sea of conversation. Every time you attend a meeting, make a phone call, or send an email, you start up a conversation. Whenever you listen to an audio recording or pick up a book, you start a conversation with an author. And whenever you write in your journal or just a take a few minutes to sit and think, you start a conversation with yourself.

Consider the combined effect of those conversations. My friend Jim Rohn liked to say that we are the average of the five people with whom we spend the most time. The quality of our conversations creates the quality of our lives.

Who are the five people that dominate the “conversation space” in your life? What did you talk about the last time you saw each person? And did that conversation build up your prosperity consciousness or tear it down?

Stay in Prosperity Conversations

Make it a point to drop out of the “aint it awful” club – toxic conversations with people who dwell on resentments or complaints. Instead, get engaged in conversations that support your path to prosperity.

For example, spend more time with the people who are already doing the kind of work you want to do. Ask them how they entered the field and what it takes to succeed.

In addition, read at least one book per week. Focus on uplifting stories and biographies of successful people. Read more and learn ways to build your skills at managing money, raising happy children, creating loving relationships, and maintaining your health. Feed your prosperity consciousness with a constant stream of useful, positive ideas.

Keep Catching Your Dream

Have you ever shared your dream with someone who then doubted your ability to achieve it? This happened to Mark Victor Hansen and me during a conversation with the publisher of Chicken Soup for the Soul. We asked him how many copies of the book we should expect to sell. The publisher said that we’d be lucky to sell 20,000 copies.

Believe me, that was NOT our dream! Our goal was to sell 150,000 copies in six months and 1.5 million in 18 months. Our publisher just laughed out loud and said it was impossible.

We ended up selling 135,000 copies in six months and 1.3 million in 18 months. We didn’t quite meet our initial goals, yet we sold much more than our publisher estimated. That first book went on to sell over eight million copies in America and 10 million copies around the world.

Whenever you have a dream-killing conversation, you have two options. Give up your dream or return to your original intention with even more energy and commitment. Focusing on your original intention sends an urgent message to your mind: I am going to persist until my dream manifests. Starting right now!

Support this deeper level of intention with affirmations, such as:

• I always attract the perfect people to work with me.
• No matter what is going on in the economy, I attract people I can help – and who can help me.
• Our customer base is expanding.
• Repeat business and referrals keep coming my way.
• Then add supporting visualizations. See yourself holding bigger paychecks, rent checks, or royalty checks in your hands. Visualize people handing you cash.

Give Back

Round out these images with visions of sharing the wealth. Many of the world’s wealthiest people are dedicated tithers, meaning they give 10 percent of their income to charitable organizations.

Visualize yourself doing the same thing. Those who give also receive, and service always comes back multiplied.

© 2010 Jack Canfield
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Are you "stuck" in this area?

If you'd like me to personally help you clarify your vision for the year, align your goals with your purpose, and develop a detailed action plan to turn your dream into reality...
www.TheSuccessPrinciplesWorkshop.com

* * *
Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

Public Speaking Fear - Will They Reject What I Say?

by Janet Hilts

Is your fear of speaking really a fear of rejection? That's at the bottom of public speaking anxiety for a lot of people. The way to deal with this fear is to first take a closer look. What are you afraid might be rejected? Your words?

Rejection Of Your Words
Here are a few facts to consider:

• Fact A: Your words only count for 7% of the actual message that you deliver. 7%! Can you believe it? The biggest part of your message is conveyed through your body language, facial expression and tone of voice. So that seriously takes the pressure off your words, doesn't it?  When you're speaking - whether that's to a client or a big audience - your intention is to connect with them, isn't it? That's what communication is all about. And people connect at the heart. That's where those nonverbal elements come into play. They're watching your eyes. They're looking to see if you're paying attention to them. They want the feeling that you care about them and their problem.
• Fact B: They want to feel positive emotions from hearing you - relief, hope, peace of mind. That experience does not come from your words.
  We've all heard words that sound empty, where the emotion doesn't match the actual words. Picture an eye-rolling teenager saying "I'm sorry" to a scolding teacher. The words aren't conveying their real meaning, are they? See how this reduces the pressure for you to get your words perfect? If your fear of rejection is about words, I hope your fear is shrinking.

On the positive side of things, think of the people you enjoy doing business with. They're just regular people, right? Just like you.

Now think of their speaking styles. Do they all have perfect grammar? Are they all fabulous speech writers and award-winning orators? Is their language completely clear of "uh" and "y'know"? Of course not!

And yours doesn't have to be either. For now, stop worrying about your words and focus on relaxing so your voice, face and body can react naturally. That's what helps you connect to people so you can really get your message across.

Bonus:
Once you get some practice speaking naturally, you'll find it much easier to work with improving your actual words if you want to. It's ironic that once you let go of the fear about the words, your options for words open up. Your creative ability and willingness to experiment with new phrases totally expands once your speaking anxiety is gone.

From the desk of Janet Hilts MPH, EFT-ADV
http://SpeakUpAndShine.com

Copyright © 2010 Janet Hilts, Speak Up & Shine | Clearing Pathways, Inc.

The Power of 1 -- The First Numeral's Ability to Change Your Life

by Kathryn Weber

Feng shui is often called the Chinese "art of placement." But it is deceptively deep. There is so much depth to feng shui that at first blush it's easy to just chalk it up as a decorating method or fun esoteric technique.

Feng shui is related to time, space, elements, colors, shapes, numbers, people, and parts of the body. It's a way for understanding and categorizing energy that is difficult to understand. We discover the "qualities" of energy by learning and knowing feng shui. It's those qualities that makes important distinctions for us.

A man once wrote and asked me what possible difference could there be between a candle and a light bulb because I recommended light in a location, but not fire (candles). I explained that it is the quality of light that is the distinguishing factor.

Think about it: a light bulb will light up a room, but even the tiniest candle could burn down a whole house. Understanding these fine philosophical and physics-related differences isn't what's important - it's the implications they have on your life that is.

The number one relates to the north and to water. It is associated with the wave shape. That's because even one small change can create big waves! So, let's talk about what the Power of One means to you and how you can harness its power to bring about more results, more success and more focus in your life.

1. One small change creates many outcomes.

Dieticians often recommend patients make one small change to their diet rather than a sweeping one that is impossible to keep up. In cutting out just one thing from their diet, such as soft drinks, patients can see a remarkable change in many areas, such as looks, weight, the way his or her clothes fit and the way others see them.

There are many ways you can apply this "one small change" tactic. Each day do one small change and over time, you will see how this can impact your life. What's one small change you can make - a 10 minute walk at lunch, giving up morning lattes, organizing one drawer a day?

2. Singular focus brings big results.

We have been taught to believe that, like the cat in the poster on a unicycle balancing plates in one hand, and bouncing a ball in the other, that in order to be effective, you must multitask. This could not be further from the effectiveness truth.

According to the journal NeuroImage, doing two things at once cuts down your effectiveness to do either thing well. The problem is that we all fall prey to the trap of the "law of excluded alternatives," that in doing one thing, we are not doing fifteen other things.

Try this instead:

a. Do one task at a time and don't get distracted until it's complete.

b. Pick one single goal for the day, week, or year to focus on and work at.

c. Stop distractions like email audible and visual alerts - these break your concentration.


3. Problem solve.

Typically there is only one single problem that stands in the way of our happiness and effectiveness. See if you can answer the following questions:

a. If I handled_________________my life would be instantly happier.

b. If I removed ___________________from my life, everything would be better.

c. __________is the one thing that stands in the way of feeling good about myself.

Working to resolve the one major thing in your life that frustrates you is very powerful and freeing. What's the one thing standing in your way?

4. Concentrated feng shui.

If you have something big you need to accomplish, you need Single Minded Determination. This concentration follows the principle of compounding feng shui. If you have an east-facing house that's painted brown, your kua success direction is east, and you face east at work, you are compounding, or concentrating, your feng shui.

Use single-minded determination to remain focused on one thing and refuse to be distracted. Make all your efforts at completing that task, whether that's running a marathon, cutting out credit card debt, or gaining better health. Being single-minded can take you far.

5. Skill and accomplishment.

When we learn a new skill and have an accomplishment, there is a tremendous shift in our inner selves. We perceive ourselves as better and more competent. What's something that you would like to learn or accomplish? Maybe learning a foreign language, a computer software skill (both of these help advance careers and business, both!) or travel to a new and completely foreign-to-you location - maybe Japan, Iceland or Peru. Pick one thing and then get good at it or get going to it!


© K Weber Communications LLC 2002-2010
Kathryn Weber is the publisher of the Red Lotus Letter Feng Shui E-zine and certified feng shui consultant in classical Chinese feng shui. Kathryn helps her readers improve their lives and generate more wealth with feng shui. For more information and to receive her FREE Ebook "Easy Money - 3 Steps to Building Massive Wealth with Feng Shui" visit www.redlotusletter.com and learn the fast and fun way how feng shui can make your life more prosperous and abundant!

Public Speaking Fears - Your Reason to Stay Small?

by Janet Hilts

If you have a fear of speaking up, you're not alone. Studies show that 85% of people are more afraid of speaking in public than they are of death. Wow! That's a huge fear. So you're a fairly typical person if the thought of speaking makes you anxious.

However, the consequences for you if you're not speaking up are NOT typical. You're a business owner. So you need to be heard. It's critical that you get the word out calmly and clearly about what you do.

Staying Small

A decision to resign yourself to speaking anxiety is a choice to stay small in your business. It's that simple. Because it's socially acceptable to have performance anxiety, so it can be an easy way to hide. I know because I've done it myself. Yes - it's embarrassing, but it's true.

While coaching other people to speak up so they could grow their businesses, I found lots of reasons to avoid doing some things involving speaking because of my own fears. On the surface, they looked like performance fears. But digging a little deeper, I uncovered the truth.

My real fear was about what could happen if I expanded my business. As long as I didn't address my own particular speaking fears, I didn't have to know that, did I? It was a safe way to stay small.

What Are You Missing Out On?

Are you doing the same thing? If you've decided this is just part of your DNA so you're not going to address your anxieties about speaking, here are some of the business opportunities you're turning down:

• doing group coaching
• creating videos
• creating audios
• making radio appearances
• doing your own teleseminars
• presenting workshops
• giving free and paid talks
• networking effectively
• being taken seriously by other professionals
• speaking calmly to those with more authority or visibility

Take A Closer Look

Do yourself a favor and take a peek behind that fear of speaking. Is it just a reason you use to avoid a bigger fear? Maybe some version of fear of success? Fear of being overwhelmed with too much work? Of not being able to maintain a new level of production? Something else?

It's not always pretty, but the truth really will set you free. It gives you have a solid, specific place to start from. There are solutions to all these concerns.

Sometimes, just dealing with your core fear will make your speaking discomfort disappear! It was just an illusion after all - a camouflage for something else. And sometimes you need some outside help with those speaking fears so you can jump on all those business opportunities.

Take whichever path will work for you, but do yourself and your business a favor and eliminate that anxiety.

From the desk of Janet Hilts MPH, EFT-ADV
http://SpeakUpAndShine.com

Copyright © 2010 Janet Hilts, Speak Up & Shine | Clearing Pathways, Inc.

Finding Opportunities in Any Economy

by Jack Canfield

Your own beliefs and behaviors are great predictors of your success than any fluctuation in the marketplace. Even when the newspapers splash the word recession across the front page, you can write your own success story.

Master the Art of “Inverse Paranoia”

Start by becoming an “Inverse Paranoid”. What I mean by this is, believe that every event in your life is the seed for your greater good; something meant to enrich you, empower you or advance your cause.

Imagine how much easier it would be to succeed in life if you were constantly expecting the world to support you and bring you opportunity.

You can easily verify this belief for yourself. Just think about the last time that a terrible event turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

A big blessing for me came during the 1970’s when I lost my job. I was working at the Job Corps Center in Clinton, Iowa, pioneering new ways to teach underachieving students. One day the word came down that the center was being relocated – and I was being laid off.

While attending a workshop at the W. Clement & Jesse V. Stone Foundation in Chicago, I shared my predicament with the presenter. He happened to be vice president of the foundation, and he immediately offered me a job working with inner-city black and Latino kids.

I accepted the offer, and what I got in return was a bigger salary, an unlimited budget, and a laboratory for learning the success principles that transformed my life and launched a new career path.

Ask Yourself: What Opportunity Exists Here?

Take the fast track to inspiration by constantly asking yourself: What’s the opportunity here? Make this a habit, and you’ll stay calm and centered during any event that seems like a setback.

The beauty of this question is that it triggers your mind to respond with positive suggestions. Compare these to the useless information you get by asking yourself the questions such as: Why did this happen to me? Or, Who’s to blame for this mess?

If you get passed over for a promotion or your retirement account takes a hit in the stock market, remember to ask: What’s the opportunity here? – or one of its inspiring variations:

What can I learn from this event?
What will I do differently from now on?
Who can I turn to as a mentor or coach?
What’s my next action?
Remember the Three Things You Control

In a way, the economy is just a vague and sometimes ambiguous idea. It refers in a general way to trillions of dollars of goods, services and products by billions of people across the planet. When you face a financial challenge, it is the vast, impersonal economy at work? Or is it your personal economy, which you can directly control?

You can’t always count on the economy, but you can always rely on yourself.

Remember, you have absolute control over three things in your life:

The thoughts you think
The images your visualize
The actions you take (including what you say to others)
Your life experience is simply the sum total of the choices you make in these three areas. And you can attract new results at any time by making new choices. Use the ideas and exercise found in this article to do just that!

© 2010 Jack Canfield

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Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

How to Make Positive Changes in Your Life

by Deborah A. Bailey
What are you attracting? Years ago a career coach told me that I had to work on becoming "irresistibly attractive." I didn't completely understand it at the time, but now I do. When we hear the word, "attractive" we usually think of physical appearance. That's what makeovers usually focus on, don't they? Changing the outside and expecting that the inside will just fall into place.

If you don't think you deserve a better job, a rewarding career or a successful business, how can you achieve it? How can you reach something if you don't feel you can have it? If I don't believe in my business, then it's not likely that I'll attract clients who want to work with me. It's also not likely that I'll be successful if I don't believe it's possible for me.

Even though I'd been dreaming of my own business for years, once I started it I didn't completely believe in it. I wondered how I could compete with more experienced entrepreneurs, and how I could attract people who saw value in what I could do for them. What I have learned is that if I don't think my work has value, I'm going to attract people who don't see the value either - and I certainly can't build a business that way.

Instead of complaining about what you have, think about what you want to accomplish. Do you want a new job, or to return to school or move to a new place? What steps are you taking to make those things happen?

1. Write down your ideas for the future. If you're going back to school, what courses do you want to take? If you want to move, where do you want to go?

2. Look at where you are now and write down the things you'll need to move forward.

3. Consider your everyday thoughts - do you go from believing you can reach your goals to being discouraged? You won't be able to move forward if you don't believe that that you can.

If you want to change for the better, then you have to believe in it. You have to be there on the inside long before you see the outside results.

Deborah A. Bailey is author of two non-fiction books including, “Think Like an Entrepreneur: Transforming Your Career and Taking Charge of Your Life.” She's also the creator and host of Women Entrepreneurs Radio, a weekly internet talk show. Her fiction work includes a short story collection and a novel, available on Amazon.com. 

For more information, visit http://www.BrightStreetBooks.com.