My First   A-Ha! moment:

A few days ago, I had been listening to a workshop by Esther and Jerry Hicks-Abraham called “The Art of Allowing” (it’s included with their book: “The Astonishing Power Of Emotions, Let Your Feeling Be your Guide.”) Mind you, I’ve heard this CD at least five times before, but on this day I needed another boost of it to remind me of their message and it was music to my ears.

Esther spoke about how many of us think life is supposed to be hard. We think it’s supposed to be a fight, a battle, or a struggle. She used the analogy of life being a river and us being in a boat. We want to go upstream all the time, because of our belief. We have to fight, battle, or struggle to get anywhere in life. Esther mentioned we should just go with the flow of the stream. To stop paddling against the current.

“The moment you let go of the oars, the majority of that resistance you have subsides.” – Esther Hicks-Abraham

You’ll begin to really enjoy life’s lessons when you pay attention to the messages that cross your path—sometimes hurling straight for your head at 500 MPH!  I like to call those the RED FLAGS that we tend to ignore ☺ Red flags can be good signs and bad signs, we just need to WAKE UP and SEE them for what they truly are!

When you let go of the “oars”… relief comes, even though it might not come exactly when you want it, it will come!

My Second A-Ha! Moment:

Doing the work that I do, I no longer believe in coincidences! Yesterday morning, I popped in The Wayne Dyer Collection CD that I haven’t heard in probably a year or so. He started to talk about a childhood song that has a simple message that we should all take heed to.

Then he asks the audience to sing along…

“Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream….Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily life is but a dream.”

He said, and I’m paraphrasing here, “Row your boat, not your brother’s boat, not your wife’s boat, but YOUR boat!” LOL … He also used the same analogy as Esther and talked about the stream is like our life and how we need to go with flow.

I say, when you let go of the oars—you don’t even need to row anymore. Let the current take you and trust your intention and intuition to lead you to the right path of your soul’s journey.

When you go with the flow, you truly take time to remember who you are, and the honor values and dreams with the integrity your soul’s mission desires and deserves. You don’t go against the grain, but do what comes easy for you … what you LOVE to do.  It’s also about releasing your inner control freak and sending her or him away to a far off place! Come on … admit it. We all have one.  For this article, I’ll just call her Ms. Jackson. (Some of you 80’s kids might get it.) LOL

5 Everyday Rituals For A More Meaningful Life

I’m saying good-bye to Ms. Jackson because:

•    She refuses to go with the flow. She won’t accept things that come with no effort. She believes that’s just being lazy!

•    She wants to have it all planned, scheduled, lined up, and the reservations called in three months in advance.

•    When things don’t go as planned, she loses it. She says, “Who needs some rinky-dink oars? I’m going to get me a high powered MOTOR and strap it on to my tug boat of life of fight against the flow, because I can!”

•    Not only would she want to fight for her life, but she wants to take every wounded soul around her for the ride. (You Suzy Save-em-Alls, know who I’m talking about!) Oh yeah, she’ll stuff them all in her little boat. She has a motor, so why not?

•    If she runs out of gas….aka BURNED OUT, no problemo, Ms. Jackson will try the oars again and pull the weight of EVERYONE in the boat.

But wait…it’s not moving. She isn’t going anywhere. The waves are hitting her in the face, she’s paddling with all her might, but she’s stuck. She can’t understand why things weren’t working in her life. Why her career, friendships, love life, and health were heading into a downward spiral.  But then, she looked back and noticed a few of those people she took along for the ride were just DEAD WEIGHT, like anchors holding the boat in place while she paddled, paddled, paddled with no success and no one was volunteering to help.

Ms. Jackson, aka your INNER CONTROL FREAK, wants Life to have no waves and wants everything to be perfect! However, we all know that the waves (things we call problems) bring with them gifts of abundance and love. Though, at times, we don’t see it in the moment. A gift can be sickness that allows us to sit still and really evaluate our life or let people take care of use for once. Or, a break up with lover who may have been taking advantage of you. Or, a huge blow out with your teenager that taught you that you CAN’T CHANGE anyone. Or, the unexpected layoff from a job of 10 years that allows you to finally focus on your dream business.

Of course, it looks like a tidal wave about to take us under when it hits,  but the gift is coming in the form of a lesson.  Stand strong and don’t worry. When it’s over, you’ll be able to wring out your wet clothes, shake off that water, and continue down the stream to realize that there are more gifts all along the way.

Don’t Be A Control Freak Like Ms. Jackson

Oh, if she only knew from the beginning to go with the flow!  You can, too, when you consider the following:

1.    Do things that come effortless to you in your life. Focus on your God Given talent, even if it’s not your main way of making money right now. Work on it part-time, until it is!

2.    Dump  the heavy weight out of your boat. Focus ON YOU FIRST! Those anchors can be toxic relationships with friends, co-workers, and even family members and lovers who might be holding you back or draining your energy and nay-sayers that are not interested in your personal dreams. They are not reciprocal relationships, and can’t or won’t support the vision you have for yourself.

3.    Honor your values and stand by your beliefs!

4.    Become an allower!

The Art of Allowing is finding a vibration that feels SO good when you find it, feels better and better as you maintain it, and gives you evidence of that connection through THRIVING. You’ll learn to recognize it. It is joy in the moment (NOW). The long long-range evidence is abundance in all things you consider good — like health, relationships, and dollars.  —Abraham-Hicks, Phoenix 3/29/2003

5. Get good at finding an appropriate release. Let go of what it is that doesn’t make you feel good.

6.  Realize you are the creator of your experience. You do have a choice … downstream with the flow or upstream with the struggle? Take your pick!

Once you begin to flow — circumstances and events become immediate. It will feel like magic and you’ll be slapping yourself in the head for not “letting go of the oars” sooner.  The only thing holding you back is yourself. Come into vibrational alignment with who you are.

Most importantly, RELEASE THE OARS and go with the flow of life. Pay attention to your A-HA! MOMENTS. Oh, what a ride on river it will be!

Certified Law of Attraction Master Life Coach & Holistic Business Coach, Simone Kelly is the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications. She encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check out the Own Your Power community out and connect with like-minds here: ownyourpowerlifestyle.com

4 Mood Boosters You Should Try Right Now

The voice in your head that told you to call your old college roommate REALLY did help you land that new job! That squirm that rumbled in your belly really did tell you to move into the right lane to avoid that accident! Those goosebumps that made the hair raise on your arms after you landed those ‘7-digits’ of your new special friend really was confirmation that they were a catch!

What it all comes down to ladies and gentlemen is actually really, really good news! You’re not crazy! LOL And of course there are NO coincidences.

The incidences that I mentioned, I’m sure many of you have experienced at some point in your life. Those examples are your innate triggers…confirmations if you will, to let you know just how intuitive you really are…that is, when you’re aware of it and in the flow of life.

Which leads me to introduce Own Your Power Lifestyle Principle No. 2

Trust Your Intuition

“Learn to trust that feeling in your gut. The gut never lies! Tap into your intuition and begin to trust what messages or feelings you receive about people, situations, or your next steps. It’s a gift we all have, learn to start embracing it. Listen, trust, and take guided action.”

What is the FEELING you get that warns or even just gives you a little ‘nudge’ telling you to WAKE UP? It’s our innate protection. When we were in the jungle, fields, and mountains as primitive humans we were in touch with our senses. We could smell fear…We could smell our food before we hunted it.

Eric Butterworth mentions in his book, Spiritual Economics, “ In the early days of life on Earth, Homo sapiens were surrounded by great beasts with superb built-in defenses: tusks, hides, claws, wings, shells and tremendous brute strength. The human creatures, seemingly so inadequate, so helpless, survived because of their defense was in their creative ability, in the intuitive flow of ideas, in their spiritual dimension-no matter how primitive was its showing.”

So, what happens when you follow your gut? THINGS OPEN UP FOR YOU. Life becomes easier because, we are listening to the messages from Spirit, God, the Universe…our higher power.

Have you ever had an experience with knowing or feeling something was going to happen? Even something as simple as singing a song in your head and you turn on radio and BOOM..or you’re thinking about someone and BOOM they call you. It’s not magic…you were just in tuned at that moment.

One of my biggest confirmations of following my gut happened when I was about 16 years old and it actually saved my life! I was going to go with some friends to a celebrity basketball game in the city and the radio commercial advertising was playing probably every 30 minutes. I just felt in my spirit that it was going to be way too crowded and I didn’t want to be bothered with the drama of long lines. I convinced my friends to go to the movies instead. I just didn’t feel good about it at all!

On the cab ride home from the movies, we heard on the radio that nine people died in a stampede at this event. It was tragic and many more were injured. I couldn’t blow that off as coincidence. It was more than just a guess, I KNEW it was a bad idea to go. How bad, I wasn’t prepared for. That sad event forced me to listen just a little bit deeper to how I felt about people, places, and situations!

Take Action Time:(Grab your journals)

Take a moment and think about a time that you followed your gut and it saved you from an outcome you did not want. What happened? What did you feel or hear?

Think about a time you DIDN’T listen and you look back wishing you did! Why did you ignore it? What was the feeling that you ignored?

“For the non-spiritual being, the concept of intuition can be reduced to a hunch or a haphazard thought that accidentally pops into one’s head on occasion. For the spiritual being, intuition is far more than a hunch. It is viewed as guidance or as God talking, and this inner insight is never taken lightly or ignored.

You know from your own experience that when you ignore your intuitive proddings, you end up regretting it or having to “learn the hard way”. Dr. Wayne Dyer

Certified Law of Attraction Master Life Coach & Holistic Business Coach, Simone Kelly is the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications. She encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check out the Own Your Power community out and connect with like-minds here: ownyourpowerlifestyle.com

We all have many extraordinary gifts… some we use, misuse, or don’t even know we possess until someone points it out!

Come on…take stroll with me though this neighborhood of your fellow “SUPERHEROS” who finally grasped the concept of using their powers for good.

There’s Ms. Busy Body who sees, hears, and smells it all. She used to be the town gossip, because she knows when everyone is coming and going. It caused her a lot of heartache in her life, because she just couldn’t stop blabbering people’s personal affairs. However, because of the pain she’s caused others and herself, she’s finally wised up and she’s applying her “skills” in other ways.

Today, as we pass Ms. Busy Body, you’ll see she is a volunteer for the community crime watch group and she is a writer for the town newspaper. She reports all of the good deeds, fun news, local weddings, and new businesses being launched in town!

That’s right…she’s using her powers for good!

A few miles south on Main St. we find, Hector Micro-manager. Behind his back he’s called the “whip-cracker!” You know the kind…confident, smart, and a bit of a know-it-all. To top it off, he’s very intimidating-standing at a bulky 6’5.

He’s been a natural-born leader since he was a child. A stickler for details – getting the job done right and managing others was his talent. Now, he’s working for a HR company as a manger and although he has the tendency to be over-bearing and bossy, he always means well. Hector’s learning to be more approachable and lay back a bit on his workers. He had to learn the hard way, because he had two employees quit their jobs, because of his aggressive micromanagement style. The important factor to note is that he realizes he has issues and he’s willing to change!

Just recently he’s took on a volunteer gig as the coach for the local football team. He’s now able to combine his leadership skills with tough love to coach young boys. He helps them not only on the field but, also off the feild too as their mentor. They have a winning streak that is unstoppable and all of his boys are doing great in school! They might not be scared of their parents but, Coach Hector’s “evil eye” and strong presence makes them hit the books!

You guessed it, Hector’s using his powers for good!

Journal Time!

(Grab a notebook and work on these questions.)

1. Think about THREE talents/skills/personality traits that you have that you aren’t using to the best of your ability.

2. Are there any talents/skills/personality traits you know you may misuse a bit? COME ON, ADMIT IT! I can’t see what you’re writing. :)

3. How can you apply those skills in your daily life to use your powers for good?

Stumped? Here are some examples!:

Obsessed with projects and details, you might be a great time management expert.

Neat freak? Home and Office Organizers will love you in their club!

Very persuasive? You’ll knock ‘em dead in any sales department.

Your friends jokingly call you the “Puppy Whisperer,” but your husband’s allergic! Volunteer at the local shelter. A local Dr. Doolittle is always needed!

Are you bossy and known as a task master?: Why not teach, coach, or consult? ~a-hem~ Okay, I admit it, that’s one of my secret powers. LOL!

PARTICIPATE!

If you have a power you’d like to share, please post it and let us know. You might help someone else with a similar skill!

Have fun with exploring your gifts and remember to OWN YOUR POWER!

Certified Law of Attraction Master Life Coach & Holistic Business Coach, Simone Kelly is the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications. She encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check out the Own Your Power community out and connect with like-minds here: ownyourpowerlifestyle.com

The Gut Never Lies! Embrace Your Intuition

The Gut Never Lies Pt 2: Learn Your Triggers & Fun Mental Exercises To Develop Your Intuition

Balance the Scales of Love: “When giving and receiving love, keep in mind how important it is to reciprocate. Are you a giver or a taker? Try your best at being both. If you are more of one than the other you will drain yourself or the one giving love to you. Compromise and strive for a 50/50 love!”

In my Circle of Power Coaching Group last night we talked about ATTRACTING RELATIONSHIPS THAT ROCK YOUR WORLD! We had a blast and some rude awakenings examining our relationships that touch our lives everyday — from lovers, friends, and family.

LETS FACE IT…It’s hard work to keep relationships in a good place. When relationships rock your world…all is right in the universe! We are on a euphoric high. The sky is bluer, the air is fresher, and everyone is just so friendly and beautiful! You must know that the extra pep in your step doesn’t always last forever on its own, you have to strive to work at it. The key is to pay attention to how you can balance the scales of love.

Here are some tips on how you can do this:

1. See a Person For Who They REALLY Are: Yes, many of us have a special talent in always finding the good in others and recognizing their ‘POTENTIAL’ and of course it’s a nice trait to possess. My hat is off to ya for seeing the brighter side of things! LOL However, sometimes we have to take off the rose-colored glasses and realize that potential isn’t enough. I repeat…POTENTIAL ISN’T ENOUGH. I’m sorry to say, you can’t change, shape or mold everyone into the amazing human being you see them as ten years down the line. Especially, when the person doesn’t see a NEED for change. So, remember in ALL of your relationships, you just have to accept people as they are sometimes, love them from a distance, or move on if need be.

“When People Show You Who They Are, BELIEVE THEM.” Maya Angelo

2. It FEELS Soooooo Good To Receive: Yes, you nurturing Mother Theresa’s and Suzy-Save-‘Em Alls know you need to listen up! You don’t always have to GIVE. One of my clients mentioned that now she realizes that her pattern is picking up the “wounded lost puppy” for a boyfriend that possibly with her love and guidance- can be ‘patched up and made better’. (See Number 1)

She would give her all, cater to his every need, even loan him money when he needed it. However, he didn’t do anything in return but –oh wait, be the pampered boyfriend! Oooh weeee! Yeah, that’s the ticket.

Sometimes, in these one-sided relationships , “Mother Theresa” can turn into a women scorned…you know that chick from Fatal Attraction? ~shivers~ The one filled with anger and resentment for giving so much and hoping that one day that wounded puppy would finally turn into the man she worked so hard to ‘fix’. Ouch…some of you felt that, I know. Hey, I’ve been there too. Trust me on this. LOL Oh, not the Fatal Attraction Part. Let me clean that up!

REMEMBER…you teach people how to treat you. What lesson do you want to teach this semester of your life? I doubt it’s HOW TO BE A DOORMAT 101, right? So, pay attention to what you allow in your world!

MANY OF US ARE WHERE WE ARE BECAUSE A PART OF US THINKS WE DESERVE IT. The more happiness we allow into our lives –the more we believe we deserve! Start believing!!

3. Speak Up!: Don’t be afraid to share how you feel. Is the relationship feeling one-sided? Again, this isn’t just lovers I’m talking about. Maybe you have a friend that you always give, give and give to and then when you need a helping hand he’s never there to reciprocate. You will keep getting what you don’t want if you don’t create some boundaries.

4. Show Appreciation: Let’s say you might be the one ALWAYS on the receiving end and maybe not acknowledging just how good you feel or how grateful you are. Now’s your chance to not just tell them but show them. Do something special for this person to put a smile on their face. A gift, card, letter, a special song and dance…get creative. Ha!

And DRUM ROLL PLEASE…

5. Pay Attention to Your Attraction Power

What are you a magnet for? What do you keep getting over and over again THAT YOU DON’T WANT? MIND YOUR WORDS PEOPLE!

If you continue to say:

“Oh, she just wants my money like most of these women. Many of them are lazy, they can’t cook, clean and are just gold diggers.”

Guess what fellas, YOU JUST PUT A SUGAR DADDY STAMP ON YOUR HEAD and you will get more of those lovely ladies.

Or

“Roberto was such a cheating dirt bag! I’m so tired of dealing with men like him. They all are dogs. There are no good men left!”

Guess what ladies, you just became the OFFICIAL DOG CATCHER of 2011!

Or

“Teenagers are lazy! My kid never does anything I ask!

Guess what Mommy? You have some more socks and dirty underwear to pick up in the living room.

You get the point now, huh? LOL Mind your words and your thoughts. The louder you shout no, the more powerful your attraction. Spend time focusing on the relationship you want now. Act as if you are IN IT NOW. Dream, think, and write about it in your journal as if it’s already yours and you might surprise yourself at the 50/50 love you’ll manifest.

I think Teddy Pendergrass said it best in his song, When Somebody Loves You Back…Who knew I’d ever be quoting Teddy Pendergrass? LOL

“Not 70/30, Not 60/40, Talkin’ ’bout A 50/50 Love”

Listen here for a nice trip down memory lane. I know you’ll be humming this all day, so enjoy!

Please share what you think about this post …Is there anything here that has worked for you or that you would like to add? If you’d like to find out more about my coaching group, go here. We’d love to have you! It’s open to MEN and Women! ownyourpower.biz/circle

Take Time Out For Yourself (Even During The Holiday Season!)

Dating: Time To Go Back to Basics

Just like we do a cleanse or a detox for our bodies, because of all of the gook and residue from fried foods, breads, and other delicious poisons… Our MINDS need the same break from all of the information that clouds our thoughts. We are bombarded with so much on any given day. If we take a moment to release some of the extra ‘mind clutter’, we’ll see an amazing difference.

You attempt to get some work done, but you get an instant message from your co-worker two cubicles down who is complaining about her husband again who cheats but she never leaves him anyhow….

How are you feeling now? Not too good eh?

OH…I FORGOT TO MENTION, it’s only 11:30am!

Does this feel even somewhat familiar? Well..start to think about your basic day- to- day interactions that shift your mood that you HAVE control over. What can you do to cut down or avoid these things, if even for ONE WEEK?

KNOW THAT YOU HAVE CONTROL!

HERE ARE SOME BASIC TIPS TO START A MENTAL CLEANSE – You don’t have to escape to the mountains of Peru for a week, there are some things you can do right now to gain some peace of mind.

1. Start to check your email only 2xs a day. Don’t look at the phone for emails either!

2. Let voice mail do it’s job. If you answer the phone every time it rings you’ll always be on the phone and never get anything done.

3. Cut down on social media.

4. Stay away from gossip or negative people who try to bring you into their drama. See number 2. LOL

5. Do not watch or read the NEWS! Even for 2 days and see how you feel…

When you start to cut out the unnecessary distractions you’ll have more time. Use that to do call a family member you haven’t checked on in a while, write thank you letters to clients and mentors one day a week. In the next 4 weeks I want you to cut down on something a little bit more each week and see how you feel?

What will your ONE THING BE? Take a moment to think about it…

IT’S YOUR JOB TO MAINTAIN YOUR BOUNDARIES. Remember you train people how to treat you and respect your time. LEARN HOW TO AVOID MENTAL CLUTTER by doing a mind cleanse even a few days a week and you’ll see a huge difference in your life. You’ll become more effective and yes…happier!

FOR MORE TIPS..YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

Beware of the News!

Turn off the TV!

Meditation 101

The Flintstone Challenge

Certified Law of Attraction Master Life Coach & Holistic Business Coach, Simone Kelly is the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications. She encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check out the Own Your Power community out and connect with like-minds here: ownyourpowerlifestyle.com

The Gut Never Lies! Embrace Your Intuition

The Gut Never Lies Pt 2: Learn Your Triggers & Fun Mental Exercises To Develop Your Intuition

START TO LEARN YOUR TRIGGERS

Here are several popular ones that most people get. You may have another one to add, but the key is spending time learning YOURSELF so that you are aware when they happen.

Goosebumps: This is definitely one of my top triggers. Usually after I say something that is spot on, I get goosebumps. For me, it’s a good trigger, a confirmation. For you, it might mean something else. My clients laugh at me all the time, since I say that “I just goosebumps, so you know what  that means!”

Stomach: squirmy feeling, butterflies, churning, there are all types of feelings you might get in your belly. Pay attention!

Voice in head: You might hear your own voice, you might hear your mother’s voice, etc…but take note to the messages you get. If you start answering back to the voice, then I suggest some counseling. This blog post doesn’t go that deep. LOL

Dreams: My favorite dream dictionary – hands down is swoon.com . If you have vivid dreams, have a notebook by your bedside and write them down the second you wake up before you forget the key elements. You know by time you brush your teeth, it’s…POOF! GONE!  So, write it down right away.

Reading people’s energy—how you feel when speaking with someone. Their body language, eye contact or lack of it. Come on, we usually know when someone isn’t who they say they are or kind of shifty!  (Always ask yourself these three questions… ‘Do I like, trust and respect them?’)

You might get one of these triggers or all of the above.

I hope by now you know that the myth about intuition is that you must be gifted, it’s some special power, and that only a select few have it. The truth is WE ALL HAVE IT. The question is…do you choose to ignore your power and suffer the consequences or embrace your power and live life at full awareness?

How Can Your Intuition Help You?

Getting a job
It can help you from staying or leaving a relationship.
Business deals
Starting a new partnership
Spending money on something that might be worth it or not.
Traveling
We’re trained to be logical and if it’s hard to explain then it just can’t “be”. Well, the unexplainable gut reactions will save you in the long run! Here are some fun exercises you can use to improve your “third eye”   and gain your confidence in following your gut. Find a friend or family member to play with!  You can try it daily for a week and you’ll see an improvement. Get ready because you might shock yourself!

Before you do the exercises, try deep breathing for a few moments and also meditate for 5-15 minutes if you have time. Learn more about mediation here!

Journaling morning or night can also help you get to know yourself more.

Intuition Games

1.  Guess what I have on—via phone: Close your eyes and try to figure out what color your friend has on, what patterns if you see them, and if you really want to show off…what kind of material is it? Denim, cotton, silk, etc..

2.     Guess what time it is: Pretty simple, before looking at the clock, guess the exact time. You probably do this already and don’t even think of it as a big deal.

3.  Guess who is calling you: No cheating! This is before you look at caller ID!

4.     Guess a song or artist is on radio before you turn it on.

5.     Magazine game: Have your friend hold a magazine or book and guess what color it is, who is on the cover, what mood does it bring you. (I’m just letting you know. This one freaks me and my students  out all the time because we are usually spot on. Lol)

6.     My favorite!: Guess what photo is in the envelope—sitting back-to-back with a person who is holding the envelope and thinking about the image inside of it.

With lots of practice you’ll see just how much you are capable of.  So, now what are you going to do with your new-found super powers? LOL  Open up a tarot card shop? Buy a crystal ball and join the circus? Well..not quite.

You’ll be more at ease and trusting with the feelings and images that you received.  You won’t call things coincidences as much anymore, nor will you think you’re crazy…you will be living your life FULL OUT.

Once you see how right you can be, you’ll learn that intuition is not something magical, untouchable or something only swamis on a street  fair can use. It’s a gift we all possess. Use it…it’s there for you! Don’t be afraid of it. Remember to Own Your Power!
Dig a little deeper and check out!

Using Your Intuition to Make Good Decisions

Learn to Listen To Your Intuition and Never Miss An Opportunity Again!

Edgar Cayce (Most Documented): Edgar Cayce (1877-1945) has been called the “sleeping prophet,” the “father of holistic medicine,” and the most documented psychic of the 20th century.

“Become comfortable with your intuitive voices and hear them as loving guides from the nonphysical, spiritual world… The next time you have an intuitive notion that you are tempted to ignore, choose to follow its lead. You must learn to cultivate the habit of trusting your intuition. Notice the outcome of your intuitive action. Begin to notice all the beneficial results that flow into your life when you follow your intuitive voice. Those inner conversations that you have, those debates about what to do and which course to take, can best be resolved by simply asking ” What is the choice that will keep me on purpose?” Then go in that direction one step at a time. Before long, your intuition will become your most trusted companion, one that you will value and celebrate as it surfaces within your mind… My own personal formula is this: If I feel it, it is real; because it is real I refuse to ignore it.”

- Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

If you’d like more topics on intuition or interested in learning more about my workshops on the subject , please email me and let me know  at  simone@ownyourpower.biz .

Certified Law of Attraction Master Life Coach & Holistic Business Coach, Simone Kelly is the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications. She encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check out the Own Your Power community out and connect with like-minds here: ownyourpowerlifestyle.com

What is it about us human beings? We can never be satisfied with who we truly are, huh? This past Saturday afternoon, after being exhausted from ‘playing’ in my garden, I decided to veg out. I was flipping through channels and saw some very interesting commercials that inspired me to poke fun at us…yes, us never satisfied humans. LOL.

Have A Layover In Atlanta? Check Out These Hot Spots!

What sparked it all was when I saw an infomercial for a tanning spray and the spokeswoman said something like, “You know how pale you can get in those summer months! Just use this mitt and rub the color on in!”

I just had to chuckle to myself because, some lighter people want to be darker and then some darker people want to use fading cream. Go figure! I used the word “SOME” very strongly here.

Then, two channels up was one of those body slimmer undergarment infomercials. The woman that tried it on lost 10 inches on her waist and dare I say…looked amazing. Hey, incredible product! Nice to put on to smooth out a tight dress. But…but…my only issue is what happens when the lights go out and that magic body slimmin’ elastic comes off! ~Comedic drum roll~ Yeah, I went there! ~a-hem~ I’m just saying! You can run but you can’t hide it forever.

Which leads me to another incident…On Monday, I was at my boxing gym and I had a voluptuous classmate who looked in the mirror and scoffed at her hips and rear end and said, “I can’t wait to get like that!” Nodding towards her petite friend doing her hair. Between you and me, I wanted to give her friend some food, poor thing looked hungry.

I looked at Ms. Volumptuous and smiled, “You know people down here in Miami are PAYING to get what you have!” (Referring to derrière plastic surgery). We laughed and she agreed. I made her smile and yes, I made her think …just a tad.

A few months ago when I wore my hair straight, I had no idea what a big deal it would be. Talk about a social experiment! I just wanted to trim my hair and get a change. Boy, was in for a surprise! All of my white and Latina friends said they preferred it big and curly. A few of my African American friends who never saw it straight raved about it and we’re shocked that I did it and thought it was permanent again. The kicker was when I passed an older African American lady in my neighborhood that I see every day, she said ,” I like her your hair better this way! You should keep it like that. That other way…” She shook her head like it disgusted her.

I felt compelled to tell her that it’s sad that many of “us” have issues with how we REALLY look and don’t love ourselves. I told her that many other races complimented my hair “THE OTHER WAY”—the way I was born by the way. Okay, okay so I’m not really a red head, but you get the point! LOL I mentioned it’s sad that society has brainwashed many of us into not loving ourselves. I could have went on a big soap box and continued, but I left it at that. ~Stepping down now as well.~

It’s amazing how many of us are not happy with who we are… Yes, there’s always room for improvement, but just take some time today, no matter who you are and where you are in your life and feel good about it. Be yourself, because it’s the only self you got! All the others are taken!

As they say…The grass ain’t always greener on the other side. So love yourself, hug yourself, and how could I forget… OWN YOUR POWER!

How To Boost Your Self-Esteem

I’d like to share a story with you about two interesting people that we ALL know…

Ms. Jane D. Acceptor thinks, “I got this dead-end job, I’m bored to tears, but hey — it pays my bills. It keeps a roof over my head. So what I hate what I do, and I’m not crazy about the people I work with…it’s a job. Aren’t you supposed to hate your job?”

Jane goes through life just accepting how it all turns out. But Mrs. Wendy Ago-Getter is a different animal. She used to be in Jane’s place, she actually worked in the cubicle right next to her. She and Jane used to complain, complain and complain about how their boss was an idiot, how management had no clue, and about how other co-workers got on their nerves. Sure they weren’t the nicest things to say about others but they had a roaring good time doing it!

They were bitter and thrived off of each other’s negative energy. They threw pity parties on a daily basis on instant messenger and on their lunch breaks.

But then…something changed. Wendy’s Husband, Mr. Getter introduced her to the law of attraction, because her bad attitude was bringing him down and causing their marriage to get a bit rocky. Once Wendy started to become aware of how she allowed her energy to flow, she also noticed how depression and unhappiness took control of her life. It seemed as if she WANTED this for herself. And it was at this moment when she realized she had the power to make a change. With this gradual mental shift she started to get to know herself a bit more. She started to dig deep for her inner power.

When Wendy had free time, she wrote children’s books and found pleasure in this craft. Whenever she got home, and after she put her five year old to bed, she wrote. She loved her newly discovered imagination where all her stories stemmed from. After all, it came natural to her. It was so easy to create fun characters. What she loved most was reading them to her daughter and seeing that smile on her face as she entered that imaginary land with Wendy.

Well, Jane thought what Wendy was doing was just ridiculous. Writing children’s books, COME ON, GET REAL! Jane became jealous when Wendy slowly started to pull away from her. The lunch breaks went down from two a week to none a week. Wendy enjoyed writing in the park on her break instead. Wendy felt alive again. She had so much fun writing.

One day Wendy’s daughter brought in one of Wendy’s book to school so that the teacher could read it to the class. The teacher was thoroughly impressed with her writing style. She was especially taken aback at the students’ reaction to the story. They LOVED it! Turns out the teacher’s brother was an agent for authors and the teacher didn’t hesitate to set up a meeting with him and Wendy.

Wendy couldn’t believe it. “My little old books? It was just a hobby. I would do it for free,” she raved. But then she started to accept her gift and realized that she did deserve whatever was coming to her. She started to picture her book on shelves of books stores, she imagined children in the park reading her books, she saw her daughter bragging about her mom — the author! Positive visualization became her daily habit. Her husband told her that her mental shift is what caused these changes in her life. There are NO COINCIDENCES.

A month later, her company downsized her department and of course that was no surprise. She received a pretty good severance and was actually thrilled for the opportunity to write more. Turns out, her new agent landed her a bidding war for her books. Simon & Schuster and Random House wanted a two-book deal from her. They were up to 50k for her advance; she hoped it would go even higher!

Could this be happening? Wendy and her husband were practically floating from the stream of good news. It was like a darn fairly tale in one of her books.

Funny enough, Jane D. Acceptor didn’t get laid off. She was transferred to another department and given even more work to cover all of the folks that left. Jane wasn’t happy about it but of course, what the heck could she do?

The fact is she could do a whole lot. We are all deliberate creators of our lives. Jane was just existing but not living.

News flash: Continue living your life as a victim and focusing on what’s wrong with everything and placing blame on everyone will only bring more of what you DON’T want into your life.

How ’bout looking in the mirror and starting there. Where we are right this very second is because of what we have done in our past. The fairy tale that Wendy is now living is very possible. You can do a 360 with your career, your business and your relationships when you are not sleep-walking through life.

It’s sad to say that we have all been brainwashed into thinking that most of our desires are not only self-serving egotistical no-no’s but absurdly impossible

BEGIN THE REVOLUTION OF A NEW OUTLOOK ON YOUR FUTURE…

1. Spend time alone, get to know yourself. Journal your dreams, meditate, pray, read self-help books, do whatever works for you at your pace, but make time to do it. Have tons of people in the house? Go for a daily walk, go to the library, get a baby sitter. Just do it alone.

2. Find out what your true calling is. What are you really here to do?

3. Get rid of the “Jane’s” in your life. Do away with the toxic people, the emotional vampires that suck the life right out of you. These are the people who enjoy being depressed and want to take you along for the ride.

4. Surround yourself with go getters not accepters!

5. Say no to pity parties. The second you feel one coming on, switch it around and start thinking about what positive outcome you want. You know a pity party is on its way when you start thinking, “Why does this always have to happen to me? I’ll never be able to pay my bills! I’m such a loser I will never find the right mate, etc…”

Cut it out already! Stop whining and complaining and DO SOMETHING about it. Talk about your dreams and your future. Write about it and fantasize about it constantly.

Okay, some of you reading this might think…

“Simone has really lost it, this is silly, give me a freakin’ break! I don’t have any power to change my situation.”

You are SOOOO wrong, BECAUSE ANYTHING YOU WANT IS ATTAINABLE…you hear me? Anything you want.

So you make the choice. Let the revolution begin! If you want it, You GOTS TO HAVE IT!

Simone Kelly-Brown

Holistic Business Coach and  RMT

877-545-7352

Own Your Power Communications

Your Passion. Your Business. Your Lifestyle.

www.ownyourpower.biz

___________________________________

Own Your Power Group LIFE Coaching  HAS BEGUN!

Sign up for our FREE TRIAL. Ask me how..

___________________________________

Join our family today:

www.ownyourpower.ning.com

Well, maybe not save the world, but make a nice big dent in the cause to improve the environment at least! I am a big fan of recycling and my newest thing I love to do is composting. Nothing gets wasted in my house! LOL Did you know that uneaten food now makes up roughly 12 percent of landfill material. My little garden is now blossoming thanks to old fruit peels, tea bags, newspaper clippings, leaves, shredded bills, and papaya skins, just to name a few. I know, sounds scrumptious doesn’t it?

REPORT: Median Wealth For Single Black Women Is $5

I used to think my mother was NUTS or just a green thumb fanatic. When I would visit her, after I had made breakfast, she would lose it if I threw certain things in the garbage. She would make me put egg shells and tea bags in her gross pile of stuff for her plants. There was a pail she had way in the back yard and when she lifted the cover, it was not nice to see. LOL I had no idea what she was doing, but I did know she did have the greenest garden on the block! You could also live off the land. She had grapefruit, tangerines, tomatoes, peppers, callalou, pineapple, mint, just loads of things growing in her back yard along with beautiful roses and other flowers.

When my husband and I moved into our home with a garden, I started to read up on how you could recycle things in the home with composting. I only knew how to take care of house plants before,however now having a garden made me catch the ‘green thumb’ from my mom. So, I now see Mom wasn’t that crazy

If you can compost, I suggest you try it out and read up on details of what NOT to compost such as meats, fish, etc… Make sure you get good containers to put them in as well, since the smell is not always that pretty in the very early stages of it. Composting overall cuts out on garbage and it’s a great way to help out the environment and create your own rich soil for your plants.

Buy the right products for your skin type

Good Resources To Browse:

1. Read on here for more on composting

2. Composting 101

3. All about Composting and Composters

Now you know that there’s more to recycling than melting down plastic soda bottles to make new plastic soda bottles. These days you can turn medicine bottles into life jackets and old running shoes into new playground surfacing. How’s that for reincarnation? Check out this new little tool I found that helps you get creative with going green!

Keep Livin’ Good!

Simone

Simone Kelly-Brown

Holistic Business Coach and  RMT

877-545-7352

Own Your Power Communications

Your Passion. Your Business. Your Lifestyle.

http://www.ownyourpower.biz

___________________________________

Own Your Power Group LIFE Coaching  HAS BEGUN!

Sign up for our FREE TRIAL. Ask me how..

___________________________________

Join our family today:

http://www.ownyourpower.ning.com

Take a moment for yourself, yes, that beautiful one staring back at you in the mirror.

The gift you give to yourself doesn’t have to be a new outfit, diamond studs, a fancy trip, or a lavish dining experience. Your gift to yourself can start with just a few moments of me time to observe and acknowledge the following:

GRATITUDE

Spend some moments in gratitude for all of the lessons you’ve experienced in 2009. Appreciate the highs and the lows and dig deep for the hidden messages in what you’ve been through. Be grateful for your talents, kindness, and compassion you are able to share with the world.

“Gratitude is the acknowledgment of love and well-being. It is a state of mind that creates a direct pathway between ourselves and the abundance of the Universe.”

–Margaret McCraw

FORGIVENESS

Forgive those who may have hurt you in the past, but especially learn how to forgive yourself! When we choose to forgive, we release judgment and free ourselves from the prison we’ve created! Set yourself free by letting go.

COMMITMENT

Stay committed to your dreams by staying on course and not getting side-tracked or letting anyone sway you from your purpose. Respect your work!

ME TIME

Give yourself the gift of “Me Time” that you deserve to sit, reflect, escape, and cherish what’s important to you. It’s a moment where it’s quite okay to be selfish.

It all comes down to OWNING YOUR POWER and standing your ground to what’s true for you! Honor and love yourself with no regrets.  If you have a gift that you give to yourself along these lines, share it here. <http://ownyourpower.biz/blog/2009/12/24/4gifts/> Post it and let us know what works for you!

Remember to always take a moment for you…even if it’s for 5 minutes a day. DO IT! You deserve it. After all, what good are you to the rest of us if you are burned out and drained, right? LOL

Take a look in the mirror and reflect on just how remarkable you are. Don’t be afraid to put yourself first.

Own Your Power,

Simone

Moody? Grouchy? Ready to snap in any minute towards the next person that asks you what’s wrong? Well, before you let ‘em have it, CHECK YOURSELF. Check in with what’s really bothering you and come up with another alternative, before you do or say something you’ll regret.

I find that many of us are so disconnected with ourselves we sometimes don’t even know why we’re so angry.

Many people have asked me, “Simone are you ever in a bad mood? You’re always so happy, you’re always smiling.” Well, for the most part that is true. I am a very happy person, because I CHOOSE to be. I try to let a lot of things roll off my back and not rub me the wrong way. I am happy for the most part but trust me, when I’m mad, ~cracking knuckles~ watch out. Let’s just say, you wouldn’t like me when I’m angry. LOL In other words, it really takes a heck of a lot to make me lose it.

What I have been able to do most of the times, before I turn into the Incredible Hulk is to try to get a few moments of peace. I meditate, chant, pray, and journal….oh man, if I didn’t have my journal there would be a problem for all of y’all! Writing out my feelings whether good or bad is an amazing release.

One of the biggest cures for anger is catching yourself in the moment. Realizing that you do have the power to control yourself. If you can stop blaming others for “your feelings” you’ll see an instant turn around.

Examples:

• You make me so angry!

• You drive me nuts!

• They get on my dang nerves!

• He makes me lose it!

• My co-workers piss me off!

• You @#$#$#%#%#$#$% (okay, this is a PG article-Just making sure you are paying attention. Hahah)

Want more of this story? Click here.

While I was sitting under the dryer at my favorite salon, Natural Trend Setters and my stylist (named Simone too :) and I talked about the next time I’d come by and coach her staff on marketing, business,  goal setting and even self-love. It’s just one of my favorite barters I do every other month or so and I get my hair styled in exchange.

During our beauty shop banter where we discussed everything from business to relationships, the small group began to bond. There was a gentleman who just had his locks done, sitting next to me under the dryer.

He lifted up the dryer so that I could hear him better, “What exactly is it that you do again? You wrote a book or something right?”

“Yes, I’m an author and coach.”

He asked more about what I did and after explaining how I work, he said, “Oh, so your like a marketing trainer and a life coach in a sense? I need one of those, someone to hold me accountable. Please send me some more info, I’d like to find out how coaching can help me.”  I emailed him the next day with further details.

After reviewing my rates, he admitted he didn’t have it in his budget right now, but wanted to discuss further. Of course, the wheels started turning in my head, and I remembered that he was a photographer and I’ll need one soon for one of my upcoming events. He was referred to me in the past, so I knew he was good. NOTE: You should check out people’s references before agreeing to anything and always get it in writing.

If you’re going to have to spend money on something anyway, why not barter when you can? I like to make smart choices and not just barter with ‘anyone’. I always ask myself is this something I really NEED, before I over extend myself. Especially if it’s a barter that includes my time.

Like for instance, I love a cash and barter mix when someone has something I really need. I have a client who owns a salon and I get paid a monthly retainer in cash, however if I’m in need of a mani-pedi, then just put on my tab. Well, the tab just essentially comes out of my monthly retainer check. However, I was going pay for a pedicure and manicure anyway, right?

I know, I know you might say..’Come on Simone, pedicures are not a necessity.’ I’m going to be honest, I am so not the “girly, girl type”, but um…I beg to differ! When you live in South Florida and your toes are out 90% of the time, oh yes indeed it is a necessity. It’s apart of the wardrobe and your marketing package, and ladies, don’t you forget it! LOL When I lived in NY, maybe I could get away with missing a few weeks, hiding them in boots, but here, not a chance.

So, I digress… I did say this is about living the good life on zero cash didn’t I? :) Just because the economy is going the way it is, why should you have to change your lifestyle at all?

In the last couple of months, I’ve been bartering with my hairstylist, a nail salon, a massage therapist and even an interior designer. Next, I’m on the hunt for a cruise and of course anything including some pampering. I love me some pampering. LOL Keep an eye out for me will ya?  If you want to take a stab at bartering. Join my free network and I’ll help you out!
Keep Livin’ Good,

Simone

Learn how to TAP INTO YOUR BURIED TREASURES with Barter!

Last month, I got a very nice wake up call. It was an email I received from my friend Tamisa, who I hadn’t spoken to in a few months. She told me she just finished reading my book, “At Second Glance”. She said she read it in one weekend and couldn’t pull herself away and only took a few breaks to stop and eat. LOL It’s 400 pages, so that alone was impressive! I wrote that book years ago, but never really pushed it like I should have.

“At Second Glance is a real page turner! I laughed, I cried, and laughed some more as I felt a little connected to some of the characters and their situations. I highly recommend this fantastic novel by multi-talented author Simone Kelly Brown!”

Tamisa Covington, New Jersey

That email she sent along with a nice testimonial made me feel so good; it was an ego boost at first, but I have to admit, I felt guilty. I was mad at myself for not really writing or promoting it like I should have. Writing is really one of my first loves and my favorite form of expression. However, I have to admit, because it’s so much fun and like a hobby to me, I still have to force myself to promote my fiction work. It’s also not bad to have an extra revenue stream from doing things that you love. That is what ‘Owning Your Power’ is all about!

After I read Tamisa’s email, I looked at my book “At Second Glance” again. I started reading some of it , smiling, blushing, laughing and getting into the book as if I didn’t write it! It’s mind-blowing how new things can feel when you haven’t looked at it in a while. I was excited again about my work! I posted a link on my network, Facebook and Twitter about it and then a new order came from an Own Your Power member who lives in Japan about twenty minutes later! A few others ordered it in the next few days. I was pleasantly surprised to wake up in the morning to “You’ve Got Cash” emails from Paypal.

I began to wonder what was the “block” with this book in particular? It’s like deep down I still believed, “Oh, artists don’t really make any money. Who wants to be a starving writer? Not me! I’m a respectable holistic business coach!” I’d tell myself,” You got real work to do, no time to be playing around writing fiction.”
However, as the law of attraction states, what you focus on expands.

What Tamisa’s little email did for me was make me revisit my second fiction novel that I’ve been picking up and putting down for the last few ~shivers~ years! I know if I really work on it, I could knock it out in about three months.

I kept  hearing the faint whisper in my ear of my writing coach, Sophronia Scott telling me, “Respect your work.” Those were the words she uttered to me in a coaching session a few years ago to help me with procrastination with my first fiction book, At Second Glance. Those very words drove me to action to complete it, along with her amazing tips on re-writing your manuscript.

Just like I love to blog on lifestyle and business tips, host podcasts and events; my fiction writing is a part of my soul. It’s a part of me that I shouldn’t push to the side as a silly hobby. It’s my way of sharing my message, voicing my opinions, creating my own little universe of characters that help heal others, make people laugh and teach lessons.

So, enough about me. What have YOU been kicking to the curb? Maybe you think it’s just too much fun and it’s not going to bring in instant income, so why do it?

RESPECT YOUR WORK BY…
1. Really sit and remember to honor your passions, be true to yourself and respect your work. Carve out small chunks of time each week by creating focus days. Have specific days isolated for various tasks.
2. Get a coach to help in this area to increase your productivity. Ask me how, I’d love to help you!
3. Ask a friend to be an accountability partner that is aware of your goals and can help crack that whip on you. Set up weekly calls.
4. Join a network of like-minded people. Surround yourself with positive energy and influences.
5. Stop making excuses and worrying about what people will think or say. ~a-hem~ Yes, it’s one of my issues with my fiction books. Well, there are juicy sex scenes and all. My father almost passed out when he read a scene on my site. I did say I was a respectable holistic business coach, what if it gets out that I write like that? LOL. Oh…so sorry, I digress
6. Spend me time with yourself so that you can remember what your TRUE passions are. You know, in case you forgot or never made time to find one.
If you need a push, I’m here for you, as long as you give me a push back too.
You have a talent to share with the world, and believe me we’re waiting…

Own Your Power,
Simone

After a week of getting a bit off track, I figured I was going to get back in shape. I even got a few of you guys hyped up, so I have to practice what I preach, right? Well, I had no choice! After my NY trip, I was on my way to Maryland for a few days. I called my girl, Dana to let her know what time to pick me up and she said with a little hesitation in her voice, “You know…we are eating mostly RAW now, right?”
“Oh? Great.” I mumbled.
She laughed, “Girl, you’ll be fine.”

Well, this is what I get, huh? I had no idea I was headed to Fat Camp aka “Spiritual Essence Yoga” Bootcamp. Only vegan dishes, but 80% raw dishes. Tofu-time here we come! I was up for the challenge and I had eaten at her house before and was diggin’ the tofu meals she made before so, it couldn’t be that bad, right?

That afternoon when she picked me up, she handed me a bowl of pink grapefruit (which I usually don’t like) and mango. It tasted DEEE- LIOUS together. How’s that for hospitality after a long bus ride? You gotta love my friends! LOL Next stop, Whole Food supermarket. I picked up some fruits and veggies that I liked and a can of Wild Salmon. I know I needed something, since she had no ‘flesh’ in her house. Flesh just sounds nasty, doesn’t it? My mother-in-law who is a hardcore vegan teases me about dining at the MORGUE. How’s that for a visual? If anything would make you think about become a vegetarian that would do it!

Anyhooo..I digress. That night we did a yoga class called 108 Sun Salutations. Honestly, I probably did about 100 and the other eight were in child’s pose panting and sweating. But I did it! After that, I was good, I thought I would sleep late the next morning, I’m on vacation sort of. NOT!

I heard a knock on my door and rolled over with one eye open to see Dana smiling all bright eyed and happy holding a berry smoothie in her hand, “Good Morning! Ready for yoga?”

I growled, “I wanna sleep….”
“Nope, we got class in 40 minutes. Get up!” I looked at my cell and saw she texted me 30 minutes before with the words, “WAKE UP!” LOL
The Yoga Diva they call her, how about the Yoga Drill Sergeant. I know my trainer Justice would high five her for getting me up and at ‘em.

I had a great time and did so much yoga I made up for those chicken wings at Amy Ruth’s Soul Food and not exercising as much while in NY. Not only did I eat extremely healthy, I was surprisingly always satisfied and not starving.

I even learned how to make fried with tofu, scrambled tofu (taste like real eggs, no kidding!), and even love the taste of Nori (seaweed). Who knew?!

I realized that being a semi-vegetarian wasn’t’ as bad as I though. I was inspired by Dana to make some minor changes and I realized rice and bread weren’t even missed. However, I did beg, yes beg for a treat. Her darling hubby took me to Starbucks. It was just one time! I got a small hot chocolate and look what happened to me after:

This is your brain on Starbucks!

I missed a few stairs after a sugar rush. Stay away from the crack!

Tip of the week from my trainer, Justice:

“Many people go on restrictive diets in order to make a difference in their fitness lifestyle. I know a few Personal Trainers who highly recommend it, however I do not mainly because people have a hard time understanding the reasoning behind such restrictions.

Most people require restrictions not because the food causes fat gain, but its because the abuse of foods causes fat gains. We all have heard the time honored saying “too much of anything is not good for you”. Well, this holds true with any number of foods. So, it is not that one piece of chocolate is going to cause 15 pounds of fat to appear; it’s the abuse of it or the lack of control. We tend to ignore our inability to have self control and or choose not to make an asserted effort to gain control.

So, as a reward a hot chocolate is okay, but to have one every night is not. A cake (one piece not half a cake) is okay once a week, but not every day. You get the picture. Avoid the SINS (Seeing It Now Syndrome).” Justice

Read Part 1 of this Story!

So, my goal to get in shape is still in progress. I’ve been moved by many of you who have joined our “Just Bee Healthy” fitness group to encourage each other and also your comments to me. Thanks so much for the encouragement! We’re all in this together and I believe me, support is always needed

My third week into my new routine, I got a tad sidetracked. I had a very cool trip last month to New York. I got a chance to hang out with some old friends, some I hadn’t seen in over ten years!

I met with some clients in person that I only knew over the phone, and my favorite time was when I got to hang out with Hasan (my hubby). We visited some memorable dating locations (since it’s been a couple of years since we’ve been back at the same time) And, of course I loved my New York City temptations: the FOOD…oh Justice ,where are you when I need you? (Justice is my trainer for those who don’t know)

I know, I know…everything in moderation as they say, but after my second night in NY, I was itching like a drug addict for a hit. I wanted some Amy Ruth’s BAD! (Delicious soul food spot in Harlem on 116th in case you get the itch too. LOL)
Oh yeah, I swore I would behave while on vacation. Salads only I told myself, yeah right. Hasan wasn’t in town yet and I never go there by myself, but this night I said, “Oh, what the hell! I haven’t eaten Amy Ruth’s in over a year!” I’m very good at rationalizing. I went on, ” I don’t care if I look greedy, I’m going!” I ordered my old favorite dish; fried chicken wings, macaroni and cheese, with string beans and you can’t forget the SWEEEEET ICE TEA. Whoooh, they must put 50 sugars in that cup.

Well, I must admit, I didn’t feel so greedy or guilty after a while and I know I should have. I made friends with the girls next to me and we were talking like we knew each other for years. I insisted to my new friends Kelley-Brown (what a coincidence) and Tonia that I would eat half and take the rest home. Not! After some good conversation, I looked down and to my surprise, I had cleaned off everything but the chicken bones in my plate.

The next morning, I did a whole lot of walking, jumped roped, squats, abs by the FDR Highway overlooking the city. Oh yeah, I was working it OUT! But then, as days went on, I got busier and busier. Late nights catching up with my girls and early mornings out for meetings, my time was more limited then I expected. And of course I just had to forget my new 30 Day Shred DVD with Jillian Michaels that I bought specifically so that I couldn’t make excuses for not working out.

I did make up for lack of exercise by walking as much as I could, instead of the subway, I’d walk 20 blocks or more. In Florida, I don’t get to walk as much unless it’s in the park. You’re always in your car and sorry to say Floridians…ya’ll are kinda lazy when it come to walking. Drive-thru everything! Banks, Starbucks, CVS, and Walgreens? COME ON! So, if you have the luxury of living a city and can walk, DO IT!

Well, after my stay in NYC, I had a part -two of my trip. I was off to get some more Reiki training from Dana Smith-Rogers who is not only one of my girlfriends but also my one of my teachers. Find out how I got my pay back from her…in part two tomorrow!

Well, for those who tend to slack on your fitness routine when they have a business trip or on vacation, here’s Justice Tip for the week, more to come!:

Just Bee Healthy Fitness Weekly Tip from Justice:
“Many people struggle with normal work out regimens, so imagine how hard it is to stay on task when traveling. Assuming the hotel you have selected does not have some sort of exercise room here is a strong tip.
Invest in a portable gym. Bands are a great way to take the workout on the road. Inexpensive, light weight, durable, and versatile, you can easily keep the routine going on the road. Spending 20 to 30 minutes on power-bands have kept many people where they want to be.” Justice

Interested in Training with Justice? Give him a call at 216-849-2882. Tell him Simone sent ya!

The crowd was slowly forming waiting for the event to begin. The music was playing, and groups of so-called friends and couples sat together at the round tables sipping on their after-hour beverages. The setting was perfect to catch up on some ‘what’s happening in your life news’, the latest gossip, venting about your jerky boyfriend, or flirting with your date. Well, instead of talking to one another, I saw thumbs typing furiously away to their other friend, much more POPULAR FRIEND, you got it…their MOBILE PHONE.

I had no idea that it’s gotten this bad people. Yes, I’ll admit we’ve advanced with technology. There has been a serious shift in what we call normal related to cell phone activity. When we see someone shouting and gesticulating wildling walking down the street by themselves, we no longer assume they just escaped from a mental institution! We know, oh, he’s just an obnoxious jerk on his Blue tooth, arguing with someone. Normal everyday stuff, right?

However, I didn’t realize that we’ve gone this far. That it’s actually normal, not poor taste or bad manners anymore to be on a cell phone while in company of others. Oh not, not for a quick call to check in with the baby sitter or make sure your friends are on their way, but to surf on Twitter, Facebook, Black Planet and God knows what else NON-STOP.

I chuckled as I observed the room of the poetry lounge and I mentioned it to my friends at my table who WERE actually talking to each other. We observed the room in awe. Almost every table was illuminated with flickering blue lights, people slouching in their chairs immersed in the LCD of their cells.

Of course, me being the nosey people-watcher that I am, had to ask. I thought, this will be an interesting blog post, so why not! I started making my rounds, since the show didn’t start yet. I told people they’d be featured in a blog, and all of them were more than willing to share. I first asked the popular Miami Poet, Lex, why he was on his phone texting and why does he think most people were doing it right now.

He said, “We’re trying to look busy, occupied. I’m usually just playing Bricks on my phone. Something to do.” Lo and behold he showed me his phone and he wasn’t lying! LOL Then, there were three girlfriends who came and barely spoke to each other. They sat in the corner, laughed for a few minutes and then dug in their purses to connect with their other friends on Facebook and Twitter. I asked them what they were doing that had them so involved with their phone when they had real live friends sitting next to them.

One giggled a bit embarrassed, “Oh, I was looking at Fandango trying to find some movies to go to with some other friends!”
Another said she was checking Facebook and Myspace.com.

Oh it was hilarious, they couldn’t see how strange it was? When I say not talking to each other, I am saying NO COMMUNICATION. They were just sitting together, not speaking. I just found it fascinating how people who were friends rather talk to their social networks than the flesh and blood sitting right next to them.
I went over to a few others. One sheepishly admitted she was looking for an after party to hit up. The last one I asked is the only one with a valid response. She was trying to help her lost friend find her way to the poetry spot by texting her directions.

The next evening I was in a restaurant and I saw this “mobile communication gap” again. The avid text maniacs going to town. Two girls dining together, texting, calling, and not talking to each other. It’s a travesty people!

Now, the main question is why do we do this? Was it really like Lex said, to look important, busy, or cool? Or just because were in such a fast forward society we forget to live in the now and appreciate our moments as they come as opposed to living in the future. Ya know, looking for that after party or telling people how much fun were having on Facebook at the lounge “not talking to our friends.” If they ONLY knew the fun you were really having! Come on! The irony just kills me.

At the time of writing, my Blackberry vibrated and it was a Facebook alert saying that a client posted on my wall and few friends were digging some photos I posted. I checked it without hesitation, smiling at their responses. Oh nooooooo, don’t say it. They got me too!

Are we just little puppets controlled by the need to feel wanted, to feel important, and hey… to even show off a bit. It’s about LOOKING FABULOUS, LOOKING GOOD, FEELING APPRECIATED, FEELING LIKED and trust me we are all falling for it. It’s fun, but I think we need to find a balance between the digital world and the real world.

I remember in the early 90’s when email became more popular and we couldn’t wait for an email to come in. Now, the emails we crave are Facebook, Myspace, Twitter alerts to let us know we have a new comment, bulletin, note or message.

Don’t get me wrong. I love social networking and it’s a POWERFUL vehicle to help you get your name out there. It’s help me grow my businesses tremendously. I enjoy meeting new people from all walks of life and I especially enjoy meeting my Internet friends in the FLESH! All I’m saying is if you have REAL friends, which I’m hoping you do, cherish the moment you have with them IN PERSON.

Your poor friends have been feeling neglected. When you start sending Facebook messages to your other friend in Canada, that seems like more fun RIGHT in front of them, they’re thinking, “What am I? Chop liver?” So, they pull out their cell to feel important as well and so the cycle begins. LOL Well, that’s just my theory!
Just remember to talk to your friends, listen to them, laugh with them and put your dang phone away just for a little. If you’re one of those FB/Twitter junkies or text maniacs, check yourself when you are sitting with a friend.
Let’s close this communication gap and bring it back to the basics. You know, when we actually talked to each other!

Own Your Power,

Simone

So, I’m must say I’m making some progress on getting my fitness groove back. ~The crowd roars~ It’s week two since I started my own fitness challenge and I’m down two inches and 4lbs! Who knew I’d get results that quick? I didn’t do anything drastic, but exercise more than my lazy two times a week that I was doing. I say lazy, because I was in the steam room most of that time then really working it out like I used to. I doubled it up with four times a week and drank loads more water. I’m trying to get to gallon a day again. I’m glad to be back on track. Now that I’ve started exercising again I feel energized and can’t wait until the next time.

I’ve been enjoying long vigorous nature walks in the park, in addition to my new fitness routine in the gym and with my trainer. You’ll get a peek of it below!

This week my work out will include a mix of yoga DVD (Essence of Flow Vol. 1) , cardio, and my most favorite of all Abs! Who Hoo..If I say it enough maybe I’ll believe it. LOL

Here’s this week’s tips from my trainer, Justice.
“The key to a good work out is good preparation. Proper footwear is the first step. Any foot apparel store can link your exercise to the appropriate footwear.

Comfortable clothing is the next step. I know it is hard, but think from before fashion. Nowadays you can get fashionable clothing that is cute and functional.

Most seasoned fitness persons will stretch/warm up for at least 15 minutes before a work out.” Justice

Hey, I know it’s hard to stay on a fitness routine consistently, but when trying to stay fit you need to surround yourself with positive and motivated people. Leave your friends at Cinnabon and McDonalds this time around and join us, so that we can keep each other motivated!

I hate to even admit this, but I actually coined the term, “Cinnabon Runs.”

When I lived in NY, my girls and I would go for a “Cinnabon Run” after a stressful day, chat it up there, and stuff our faces. It’s been a few years since Cinnabons have tasted good to me though. Now its tooooo sweet. I’ve made a slow shift towards eating better and I guess my taste buds aren’t as sugar-starved as they used to be when I was addicted to Cocoa Krispies and Cinnabons. Now, I not gonna lie, I‘m still working on Starbucks. I only went ONCE last week, so that’s an improvement! LOL I look forward to the steam room now as stress reliever, no longer Cinnabon runs. I know they say its not realistic to go cold turkey, so I’m trying, I really am!

You can’t do it alone and neither can I. I appreciate you all. Let’s do it together people!

JOIN ME HERE and join the just be healthy fitness challenge!

http://ownyourpower.ning.com/group/justbeehealthyfitnesschallenge
Own Your Power,
Simone

Get Your Fitness Groove Back…where the inspiration started!

We’re in that mid-year hump! So far, 2009 might have been the most exhilarating year of your life or sadly it may have been one of the toughest and longest years yet. I think it’s time to celebrate no matter what happened so far, because I find that we are waaaaaay too hard on ourselves.

Could this be you?

”I didn’t get that client. I didn’t get that raise. I was suppose to loose 15lbs by May 31! I’m still single! My garage is still a junkyard fiasco!”

Should I go on? Of course not, this is not supposed to be a depressing entry. LOL

Hey, don’t beat yourself up too much for what you didn’t do and don’t jump right ahead into planning 2010 either. Take a moment and really think about what you DID get accomplished.

You guessed it. It’s pen and pad time! Try this 30 minute exercise.

It’s time to congratulate yourself for what you did accomplish! It can be as small as redecorating your home office or as huge as giving birth to a healthy baby.

Make a list of at least five things you can pat yourself on the back for accomplishing for the first half of 2009.

Whoa! You’re on a roll and have more than five? Well, don’t let me stop you! This is your time to toot your own horn and brag away. Write about each item and describe what you did, how you did it, and maybe how you might have overcome some obstacles that were in the way.

Spend a few minutes just writing what comes from your heart. Now when you’re done, enjoy the natural high you just gave yourself! Notice how you might have been smiling as you wrote, how good it felt. Revel in the moment and always remember to celebrate yourself and be grateful for what you did do.

How many of you have hired a new team member and never took them to a “welcome to the team” lunch? How many of you have a business and NEVER HAD A LAUNCH PARTY, never had an anniversary party? Something you might think of as trivial or a hassle is definitely worth celebrating. Those are monumental things you put on your calendars to do next year! It doesn’t have to be a huge gala. It could be just 10 people at a lounge spending a couple of hours together. Remember, parties are great for socializing and networking, but also branding and cultivating new business.

I asks some ladies of one of my networks,
“How Do You Celebrate Yourself or Your Business?”
Here’s what some members of The Give ‘n Take Network said…

“As a busy entrepreneur, one of my favorite ways to celebrate myself is to ‘unplug’ and ‘go green.’ I retreat into natural, rustic and wild environments and receive the gifts of Mother Nature. The feeling of the early morning air on my face and the sounds of the wild are centering and sobering…. A river walk (walking upstream, through an active river) is exhilarating and reconnects me with why I am so thankful. Hiking up in the mountains is challenging and rejuvenating…. In each of these activities, regulating the breath is the journey, the meditation and the healing. I emerge clear-headed, open-hearted and vibrantly alive.”

Cleaster Cotton ~ Artist, Photographer, Educator

“I honor myself with some combination of the following every month: massage, pedicure, manicure & facial at a salon or spa.

I also spend 30 minutes or more daily just spending time with myself. No TV, no music, no distractions. Just me with my thoughts. I check in with myself to see if my vision has changed, if I am in alignment with it, or if there is something inside I need to address. I tell myself daily how proud I am of me and that I am glad to know me.”
Rissa Long, Weight Loss Expert

“On a daily basis, I celebrate myself each morning with a luxuriating bath for at least 40 minutes with just the sounds of silence…. It is my Hour of Power and if I do not take it at the beginning of my day, I risk getting caught up in the trappings of my daily life, where distractions of all sorts are abound. During this time, I make it a point to thank my “higher power” for allowing me to awaken to another day.

Barbara Swygert, Realtor

“First thing in the morning before everyone awakes, I start my day off reading my daily meditation…. During the course of the day no matter the time and/or place when I’m really stressed, I close my eyes, put peppermint lotion on my hands, and breathe heavily. I’m truly looking forward to my birthday, because I celebrate the entire month. I cut back on some of my work, my husband always plans a party for me, and my girlfriends plan something for me every weekend of the month.”
Trenell A. McCauley
Virtual Assistant

I hope you’ll remember now to pat yourself on the back and celebrate! You’ve come a long way baby!

Own Your Power,

Simone

Simone Kelly Brown, the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications, encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check her community out and connect with like-minds here: http://www.ownyourpower.ning.com

It’s a serious problem…we are always in a rush to the next meeting, finishing a major project, picking up the kids, cleaning, cooking…Have you become that Superwoman or Superman running on Energizer batteries?
Realize you aren’t perfect, you aren’t a machine. Humans are incapable of perfection, so stop beating yourself by working so hard. We sometimes feel guilty from just taking a 15 minute break from the daily grind. However, what most people don’t realize is that those “me time moments” allow you to recover and put your all into the rest of your day.

DO IT FOR YOURSELF! YOU DESERVE THOSE GUILT FREE MOMENTS. We need, recovery, reflection, goal assessment time, and the ability to say no! Here’s a check list to help you create some of your own “Me Time Rituals.”

1. Tap into yourself EVERY DAY: Meditate, pray, chant or say an affirmation…whatever works for you spiritually can serve as a great relaxation tool. Even if for just five minutes, make the effort!

2. Take energizing breaks. If time or money doesn’t permit you to take a full-fledged vacation, then escape to a location close to home for a weekend retreat. Make sure people call you only for an emergency.

3. Treat yourself to a day-spa for some pampering. A massage or facial will always do the trick! Can’t afford it? You can do it at home with some friends.

4. You can also do something as simple as going to your public library or book store. Browse the travel section, photography books or fiction. Peruse anything that lets your mind go on a mini-vacation.

5. Take a news fast and don’t read or watch the news for a day or two.

6. Take a walk in the park and bring a book and just relax. (Non-work related reading only guys!)

Don’t turn your focus away from what is truly important. Instead, learn to measure your success by the balance and happiness you achieve in your life on a whole. I wish you luck in achieving that life that you want and need!

Simone Kelly Brown, the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications, encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check her community out and connect with like-minds here: http://www.ownyourpower.ning.com

Many times, we think ONLY WE KNOW HOW TO DO IT RIGHT, we don’t feel like training some bratty intern who is going to mess it all up, or we just don’t have the time. Yes, these are the excuses I hear all the time from new clients who are pulling their hair out from stress, because they believe these myths of entrepreneurship.

Psssssst … come a bit closer, I have a secret to share with you. It’s the simplest thing on earth. ASK FOR HELP!

We take for granted the amazing resources that are right at our fingertips, right in our Smart Phones, rolodexes, or that stack of business cards at the bottom of our desk drawers … there’s no telling what we could accomplish!

There are many things you can do with smart alliances and bartering with others to make it a win/win for everyone! Creating strategic alliances with someone who complements your business (as you do theirs) is what it’s all about. Here are some examples that might even work for you!

PROBLEM 1: Stacie B., Fashion Editor of an E-zine

Stacie has a newsletter she writes each month. Gifted with amazing writing skills and knowledge of the latest fashion trends, Stacie always has her readers raving! The only problem is that “everyone” who reads it is her husband, two cousins, and some old co-workers.

She has a college friend, Veronica, who owns a popular salon in Brooklyn. Veronica has gathered 6,000 names and e-mails in her database, since she’s been in business. Her problem is that she is understaffed in marketing and has no time to send anything out to that amazing list, besides a discount every few months. She has no consistency and needs something to create repeat customers.
THE SOLUTION: Joining Forces

Stacie B. should start writing fashion and styling tips on the latest trends, feature Veronica’s hair tips, some before and after photos of Veronica’s clients, and even interview some of the clients who are the most trendy. Veronica will throw in a monthly discount that readers can only get by printing out the coupon and bringing it in to their appointment.

Benefits:
This gives Stacie B. an audience to brand herself to and gain a new fan base.
Veronica didn’t have time to write and edit a newsletter, but now Stacie will take control of that.
She gets to brand her salon more, improve her customer retention, and even highlight her clients who will LOVE being in the spotlight.

PROBLEM 2: Jenny and Kevon’s First Friday’s Event

Jenny and Kevon (a husband and wife team) are known for throwing the hottest parties in North Carolina. They just found a great new venue for their First Friday’s event. There’s a top-notch sound system, funky décor, sexy lighting, prime location, but the problem is … there’s no food at this venue, only drinks. It’s an after-work spot, so people usually come hungry after a long day on the job.

THE SOLUTION: Joining Forces

Kevon remembers a caterer who’d be able to come and sell food at a low cost to attendees, because the caterer is still building his business. So, they contact him to see if he’d be interested in sponsoring their event. In exchange, the caterer gives them a one-hour free buffet. Then after that, he sells full dinner plates for just $6.00.

Benefits:

• Kevon and Jenny will give the caterer loads of exposure.
• There will be no more hungry party-goers and it will draw more of an early bird crowd to get the party started quicker.
• The caterer’s logo will be in party e-mail blasts with links to his website.
• He’ll have a banner at the event and flyers on all tables.
• Both parties will share the e-mail list of new sign-ups from that night.
• The caterer made a nice amount of money at the end of the night as well.

So, you see how one hand washes the other? Start thinking about your joining forces solution and who can help you with a problem that you have with your business! Breeze through your address book and a light bulb might just go off.

Good luck!

Own Your Power,
Simone

Simone Kelly Brown, the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications, encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check her community out and connect with like-minds here: http://www.ownyourpower.ning.com.

Want to learn more about building a team and getting help? Go here to learn more ….

FAME…I Wanna Live Forever!

I know you will be humming that Fame song for the rest of the day. (Don’t you just hate when I do that?) LOL! The song is so perfect for today’s topic.

So what, they are not on the cover of Giant, Vanity Fair, Cosmo, or Essence. They might not have the paparazzi hiding behind their bathroom door trying to get that million dollar nudie shot, but they are still stars in the eyes of many!

I’m talking about the phenomenon of the local celebrity. The little guy who still shines brighter than the Average Joe. There is something that draws us to these people. It’ s their passion, their personalities, it’ s what they do. The local celebrity could be a financial expert, doctor, politician, motivational speaker, pastor, or business guru. What is it that gives him or her that star quality? And is it possible for you to attain that magical twinkle in your eye as well?

Well, today you’ll learn you don’t have to dance on top of cars to get the attention you deserve. (It’s okay, show your age, for those of you who remember the Fame Movie!)

1. Know your target market and have them feel comfortable with you! Understand what they need and want so that you can give it to them and THEN some. Having a “story” is extremely important as well, in many cases people want to identify with you. Maybe you accomplished something they are trying to and you are their inspiration. Tell them about it. Don’ t be shy. If you were in an abusive relationship, WRITE ABOUT IT, talk about it.

If you just overcame a serious illness and found ways to overcome it by changing your diet, SHARE IT! If you were in debt and now you’re a big BALLER, tell ‘em how you got there! FIND THEIR PROBLEM AND HELP THEM SOLVE IT! We love information– heck you’ re getting some right now aren’t ya?

2. Do Something that Counts!

Being fabulous is cute, but what are you doing for your community that makes people remember you? Host an event, volunteer; speak on topics that will uplift those in your area.

3. Continue to Build Up Your Fan Base

Collect contact info like it’s nobodies business. Every event that you have or attend, you should be collecting names, e-mails, and mailing addresses. Don’t walk away missing out on potentially new clients, customers, followers, fans, etc.

For those in the music industry for example, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to a show and then realized they didn’t even have anyone collecting email addresses or business cards. It’s a wasted opportunity! You need to stay in contact with these folks who could later come to another show and buy your CD or MP3s online!

4. Get out the house and WORK THAT ROOM BABY!

Learn how to find interesting networking events online. Go where your target market is, not necessarily where your peers are. Read this article titled Work That Room, Baby for more info and simple tips to make networking easier for you.

5. Do local cable, TV, or even get your own Internet Radio Show. Start researching cable access shows in your area by calling your local cable company. Cable is very inexpensive and many folks are shocked when they find out the rates!

Why not start your own Internet Radio show by going here for more info.

I sat down with a Give ‘N Take member Jude Gorgopa, Founder of Clout Et Cetera, Inc. http://www.cloutetcetera.com to ask her what she thought about the topic since she is an expert in getting clout. She had these points to add to the list.

6. Have Authentic Personal Style

Becoming a local celebrity is a lot easier than you may think! Having star quality is more a matter of over-all impression than actual looks so having a knockout first impression is one giant step to stardom. What message is your image sending? Before you even open your mouth, you need to have a positive and memorable impact on people. Having authentic personal style can give you the clout to open doors to places that would otherwise remain locked or take years to enter. It’s amazing how charm, grace, and confidence can get you to the front of the line. You don’t have to be rich or wear expensive clothes. It’s all in how you work it! That’s star quality.

7. Keep yourself in front of people!

Speak at events, participate in fund raising, go to networking events, get cards printed and hand them out and make sure to take advantage of photo ops and auditions. There’s no room for fear! Get known for being the professional and wonderful person that you are. It’s a hard fact that even if someone is really interested in you, they will rarely call you back. You must keep on top of your contacts and constantly develop new ones, focusing on those that will help you get to where you want to go. The most important advice is to be kind to everyone on your way up, from the receptionists to the doormen to the assistants, because you never know who you’ll meet on the way down!

8. Remember, anyone can develop a signature style.

It takes time and it takes courage, but it can be done. Finding yourself as a person has a lot to do with finding your personal style as the whole process is to basically bring the inward outward. It’s not enough to get a makeover when the old attitudes are still attached. It’s like putting fresh icing on a stale cake. If you’re going through a major transition in your life and exploring new options, you’re feeling lost and confused or just plain bored, it helps to have a coach on hand to help direct you to your goals and the image to go along with them.

Simone Kelly Brown, the passionate visionary behind Own Your Power Communications, encourages you to own your business and pursue a holistic lifestyle. Check her community out and connect with like-minds here: http://www.ownyourpower.ning.com

Are you a Jack of all Trades, Master of None? It’s okay, your secret’s safe with me. Working with entrepreneurs as my clients and meeting hundreds of them over the years has brought to my attention that not only are we a creative bunch, but sometimes we are just too overwhelmed! With a new idea sprouting up every month, we sometimes want to keep adding more to the pot. Unfortunately, that amazing stew you first started off with doesn’t taste as good with so many things dumped in it.

Juggling many things can be hazardous to your health and your sanity — especially when it’s just you doing the juggling by yourself! We need to slap the blinders on so that we can focus on our strengths and stop straying off course. Hey, I’m no angel and I’ve been a Jack myself, so I know. However, the first step to recovering is admitting you have a problem!

Could you be a “Jack” who is possibly in denial? Step into my office and let’s see if I can help you. Answer the following questions, yes or no.

1. Do you have a full-time job and one or more “side-hustles” that you haven’t quite gotten off the ground, because the paying job is taking up all of your time?

2. Do you have one job or one business and juggle several unrelated projects at once?

3. Do you have more ideas, plans and proposals than fully completed projects?

4. Do you have various streams of income, but not really passionate about them all, because you just got into them for the extra cash?

5. Does your business card takes a good five minutes to grasp, because you have four job titles and businesses on it?

6. Are your friends and family sick of hearing about your latest “fabulous idea”, because you never follow through and bring them into fruition?

7. Do you have a full-time job that drains your energy, leaving you to drag yourself into the office everyday? However, you have a side business that you love doing and it puts a smile on your face each time you work on it?

Did you answer yes to any of these questions?

Okay, let’s have some fun! Get a pad and pen and make a list of all the projects/jobs/businesses you are working on right now.

Now, imagine you had all the money and time in the world, you had no debt, you have plenty of free time. What on this list of duties would you still do…FOR FREE? That’s right…for FREE. You love it so much because it’s fun, you are passionate about it and comes naturally.

Ah…now we’re talking! Think about where you spend most of your time now and what your values are. Would it be with family, friends, in nature, traveling, etc…? How do you really want to live your life?

Try and narrow down the things on your list to your number one favorite and start to devise a plan of working towards doing that full time. Of course, in the real world you have bills, you have obligations, etc. But that shouldn’t be an excuse, and shouldn’t stop you from at least TRYING to figure out how you can make the transition. Don’t shoot your idea down before even trying…dust that little devil off your shoulder or better yet, tell him: Simone said, “SHUT UP!” LOL!

Now listen to your gut. What can you do starting today to make it work?

How Do You Make the Transition?

(The following is an excerpt from Jack of All Trades, Master of None?)

Your need for start-up money is the reason why you shouldn’t storm out of your dull 9 to 5 just yet. Yeah, you might hate your job, but think about it as the contributor to your “layaway plan for escape.”
Realize you’re probably going to spend more money than you make that first year in business. Here are some pointers to help prevent you from living back at Mom’s in your old room.

• Get your business plan together. This goes hand in hand the number one fear: Failure. The more you have dissected what you need to do, the more realistic things will be for you.

• Get your Side-Hustle going! Start small with projects after work and on weekends. You can test the waters to see if your business is even worth expanding. A slow transition is key.

• Know your monthly budget and save accordingly . Stash away a chunk of your paycheck from your job and side hustle for your “layaway plan for escape.” You should have at least 6-12 months if money saved so that you can keep a roof over your head and food in your belly. Don’t count your 401k, that’s for retirement only! You don’t want to pay that 30% penalty for withdrawing.

In the end it all comes down to being happy. It comes down to following your bliss. Do you want to live your life with regrets? Honor yourself and your values, but most importantly, remember anything you want is attainable!

Own Your Power,
Simone
Buy your copy of my book, “Jack of All Trades, Master of None.” Mention Black Planet and get an autographed copy. Order here:
http://ownyourpower.biz/products.html

Give your work your best effort, stand up for your beliefs, but be careful that you don’t become a one-dimensional robot that just has his or her tape programmed to talk about how much work he has to do. If you notice people by the water cooler scatter when you come by, I’m afraid to break the news to you. They know it… they don’t want you to pass that energy on to them. They see that you have no life.

Yikes…maybe I’m being a little harsh, but I’ve been there, so I know. While working at HBO as a Director for a website, I worked long hours. My office became my second home. There was a leopard rug (don’t laugh), candles, incense, soft jazz and dim lights. My co-workers would always joke around about it being like a lounge and that I should serve martinis during meetings. LOL But I realized I made it so comfortable, because that’s where I spent most of my waking moments. It’s pathetic when I think about it now. Sure, I was getting a great salary and yeah I loved what I did, however what was seriously lacking was some ‘me time’. Other parts in my life weren’t fulfilled, because of this ‘love’ for my job.

Now, being a ‘self-bosser’ for over eight years (KNOCK ON WOOD), I cringe when I see others with this obsession, especially, if it’s not their own company. I see it sucking the spirit right out of them. I was inspired to write about this topic by a long time friend of mine, because he’s going through a rough period in his career where work is all he knows. Although he’s extremely successful, he’s not the same person, because work is all he talks about and being at the top is all he lives for. The end result is that he barely has enough time for hobbies, family or friends. He’s only 28 and stressed out beyond belief. You can look at him and tell he has tightness in the back of his neck as his brain tinkers away thinking about “work, work, work.”

That tightness in the back of my neck is a feeling that I don’t miss. But even though I do get stressed out sometimes…knowing how to strive for balance and a healthy life has prevented it from occurring. Now the question for you is: Has your JOB become your LIFE? Have you changed as a person and let your spirit fade? Take this simple quiz and see if you are showing symptoms of a workaholic.

Answer yes or no to each question.

1. Do I have a ‘me-time day’? One day out of the week that I use to focus on me and me alone? (This means no business calls, meetings, or business reading.)

2. Can I spend time away from work and not think about business issues?

3. Do I talk to my spouse, friends and family about topics OTHER than business or my day at work?

4. Am I spending quality time with my family?

5. Do I have a hobby?

6. Do I still have friends? (outside of the office)

7. Do I laugh and smile as much as I used to?

If you answered NO to three or more of these questions I’d like you to take a seat, light a candle, close your eyes, and repeat this chant. “I must get a life. I must get a life. I must get a life.” I’m just teasing ya, but seriously folks, here are some real pointers to help you recapture your true self and not get lost in WORK.

Find Balance and Reduce Stress

1. Get a physical: Get an accurate assessment of your health. What’s your cholesterol count? Your blood pressure? How much do you weigh (and should you lose any to better your health)? If you are currently experiencing symptoms of stress, your physician will assess their significance and prescribe a treatment.

2. Tap into yourself EVERY DAY: Meditate, pray, chant or say an affirmation…whatever works for you spiritually can serve as a great relaxation technique.

3. Eat healthy and begin a journey towards a healthier lifestyle: Health is a buffer against stress. Increasing your physical stamina through diet, exercise and rest will help you combat the stressors in your life.

4. Improve your time management: Take a course or purchase a book to learn the best ways to manage your time AND your energy.

5. Take energizing breaks:

- If time or money doesn’t permit you to take a full-fledged vacation, then escape to a location close to home for a weekend retreat. Make sure people call you only for an emergency!

- Treat yourself to a day-spa for some pampering. A massage or facial will always do the trick!

- You can also do something as simple as going to your public library or book store. Browse the travel section, photography books or fiction. Peruse anything that lets your mind go on a mini-vacation.

- Take a walk in the park and bring a book and just relax. (Non-work related reading only guys!)

6. Day Dream!: “When you think about pleasurable things like sex or food, PET scans show different patterns lighting up in your brain than when you think about work or something unpleasant,” says Mehmet Oz, MD, Director of the Cardiovascular Institute at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, in O Magazine.

Realize you aren’t perfect, you aren’t a machine. Humans are incapable of perfection so stop beating yourself. Free yourself to ignore some of the social pressures that have been holding you back from your hopes and dreams. Your ambitious nature may get you to the top, but you might just be waving down at everyone you let fade out of your life. You’ll have no one to share your successes with. Remember that friends and loved ones suffer those weekends and late nights you are home answering e-mail or constantly checking your office voicemail.

Don’t turn your focus away from what is truly important. Instead, learn to measure your success by the balance and happiness you achieve in your life on a whole. I wish you luck in achieving that life that you want and need!

Own Your Power!

Simone

I want to share with you my own personal battle to stay comfortable and I even brought my friend, Motivational speaker, Stacie N.C. Grant along to share her expertise. I know from experience that getting out of your comfort zone and forcing yourself to JUST DO IT can take your career into an entirely new dimension! Some of the hardest things for people to get comfortable with are networking, public speaking, and writing. There’s no coincidence that those three vehicles can absolutely boost your career or business. Out of these areas, writing is my first love. It comes easily for me and is even a hobby. I write fiction books and poetry from time to time.

Networking—believe it or not—was something I absolutely dreaded! Just the simple fact that I had to make small talk with “strangers” was something I avoided at all costs. I’m sure I missed out on several new clients or business alliances, because of my fear of ‘getting out there’ and mingling in sometimes uncomfortable environments. Slowly but surely, I started forcing myself to attend a function at least once a month. I stopped asking people to introduce me to others and started to become brave enough to go up to people on my own. I beefed up my networking skills by going with a purpose and plenty of practice! A few years later, I started my own networking organization (The Give ‘N Take Network for Women) that has members across the United States!

And public speaking, oh boy…don’t even get me started! As a manager and then eventually a director in Corporate America, I couldn’t avoid it, but I absolutely wished I could lock myself in my office and hide. Meeting after meeting, conference call after conference call, I had to present ideas to upper management, discuss employee issues, and present results from various projects. With five or less people in the room, I was cool; but once the crowd was any bigger, my hands would sort of tremble, my voice would crack, and the beads of perspiration would form on my forehead. I know…very attractive, right? As talkative as I am one on one, public speaking and I didn’t mix. :)

I hate to admit it, but I even remember turning down speaking engagements when Own Your Power started to take off. I just wanted to stay in my comfort zone, behind my computer monitor where I was safe from making a fool of myself. However, after finally saying “yes” to my first panel discussion, I found out that I was actually making an impact by encouraging others with my story and advice. I enjoyed seeing the warm faces and reassuring smiles in the audience looking back at me and nodding their heads. I especially loved that they had no idea my knees were wobbling under my skirt and how my hands were shaking every time I took a sip of my water. The line of people waiting to speak to me after my presentations confirmed that I was doing the right thing! Five years later, I actually get paid to speak at universities and business groups. Who knew? I’ve learned many tips from picking the brains of successful professionals who were amazing at public speaking.

My favorites on being prepared are:

1. Know who your audience is and speak their language

2. Be yourself, it truly shows

3. Write out your presentation

4. Practice in the mirror and in front of friends

5. Tape record yourself to hear what needs improvement

I’m proud to say, my knees no longer wobble and now, you have to drag me off the mic!

My friend Stacie has her Top 5 to add as well…

Get Over The Jitters by Stacie N.C. Grant

Getting out of your comfort zone means you must be willing to grow; and most of the time that is a very uncomfortable feeling.
One of the universal fears most people face is the fear of Public Speaking. Sweaty palms, jittering teeth, upset stomach and nervous twitches are some of the ways this fear manifests itself. The good news is: anyone can overcome this fear if they are willing to step out of their comfort zone!

Below are a few practical ways to conquer fears of Public Speaking:

1. Think of Public Speaking as a conversation with a group of people. When you have conversations, your words flow naturally. You aren’t nervous, and people can feel your natural passion in regards to what you are saying. If you think of the audience as a group of your friends you can release some of your anxieties.

2. Before making a presentation it is imperative that you properly research your subject so your thoughts can flow with ease. No one likes to feel like they are being lectured to in a presentation. It is much more pleasant to feel like the person in front of the room is sharing useful information/advice that would make for good conversation later.

3. It is important to prepare an outline of your presentation to give your listeners a proper introduction, body and conclusion of your thoughts. An outline shouldn’t be used to read from, but as a summary of the main thoughts you will share. With enough practice you will become very familiar with your presentation so that you won’t need to read your outline. You will be able to just occasionally look at it in order to keep on track.

4. You must know your audience. For instance, you probably wouldn’t want to present a medical lecture to group of photographers. Researching your audience helps you to prepare a presentation that will be of interest to them. This will also help you to feel as if you have a connection with your audience.

5. It is only through consistent practice that you are able to overcome your fears. Start off with practicing your Public Speaking today! Practice presenting as much as possible by introducing yourself at networking functions, testifying in church, presenting at staff meetings, etc. Remember practice will make you more confident. Confidence is what makes you not as concerned about other people’s acceptance of your presentation because you have done your homework.

Remember, no one knows what you are going to say before you open your mouth. If you make a mistake no one will know except you. The mere fact that you had the courage to come out of your comfort zone and stand in front of a group of people makes you successful. It’s all in how you choose to approach things in life…either to seek to conquer or to be defeated. I wish you continued success on your life’s journey.

I’d like to share a story with you about two interesting people that we ALL know…

Ms. Jane D. Acceptor thinks, “I’ve got this dead-end job, I’m bored to tears, but hey – it pays my bills. It keeps a roof over my head. So what if I hate what I do, and I’m not crazy about the people I work with? It’s a job. Aren’t you supposed to hate your job?”

Jane goes through life just accepting how it all turns out. But Mrs. Wendy Ago-Getter is a different animal. She used to be in Jane’s place, she actually worked in the cubicle right next to her. She and Jane used to complain, complain and complain about how their boss was an idiot, how management had no clue, and about how other co-workers got on their nerves. Sure they weren’t the nicest things to say about others but they had a roaring good time doing it!

They were bitter and thrived off of each other’s negative energy. They threw pity parties on a daily basis on instant messenger and on their lunch breaks.

But then… something changed. Wendy’s Husband, Mr. Getter, introduced her to the law of attraction, because her bad attitude was bringing him down and causing their marriage to get a bit rocky. Once Wendy started to become aware of how she allowed her energy to flow, she also noticed how depression and unhappiness took control of her life. It seemed as if she WANTED this for herself. And it was at this moment when she realized she had the power to make a change. With this gradual mental shift she started to get to know herself a bit more. She started to dig deep for her inner power.

When Wendy had free time, she wrote children’s books and found pleasure in this craft. Whenever she got home, and after she put her five-year-old to bed, she wrote. She loved her newly discovered imagination where all her stories stemmed from. After all, it came natural to her. It was so easy to create fun characters. What she loved most was reading them to her daughter and seeing that smile on her face as she entered that imaginary land with Wendy.

Well, Jane thought what Wendy was doing was just ridiculous. Writing children’s books? COME ON, GET REAL! Jane became jealous when Wendy slowly started to pull away from her. The lunch breaks went down from two a week to none a week. Wendy enjoyed writing in the park on her break instead. Wendy felt alive again. She had so much fun writing.

One day Wendy’s daughter brought in one of Wendy’s book to school so that the teacher could read it to the class. The teacher was thoroughly impressed with her writing style. She was especially taken aback at the students’ reaction to the story. They LOVED it! Turns out that the teacher’s brother was an agent for authors and the teacher didn’t hesitate to set up a meeting with him and Wendy.

Wendy couldn’t believe it. “My little old books? It was just a hobby. I would do it for free,” she raved. But then she started to accept her gift and realized that she did deserve whatever was coming to her. She started to picture her book on shelves of books stores, she imagined children in the park reading her books, she saw her daughter bragging about her mom – the author! Positive visualization became her daily habit. Her husband told her that her mental shift is what caused these changes in her life. There are NO COINCIDENCES.

A month later, her company downsized her department and, of course, that was no surprise. She received a pretty good severance and was actually thrilled for the opportunity to write more. Turns out, her new agent landed her a bidding war for her books. Simon & Schuster and Random House wanted a two-book deal from her. They were up to 50k for her advance; she hoped it would go even higher!

Could this be happening? Wendy and her husband were practically floating from the stream of good news. It was like a darn fairy tale in one of her books.

Funny enough, Jane D. Acceptor didn’t get laid off. She was transferred to another department and given even more work to cover all of the folks that left. Jane wasn’t happy about it but of course, what the heck could she do?

The fact is, she could do a whole lot. We are all deliberate creators of our lives. Jane was just existing – not living.

Newsflash: If you continue living your life as a victim, focus on what’s wrong with everything, and place blame on everyone, you will only bring more of what you DON’T want into your life.

How ’bout looking in the mirror and starting there? Where we are right this very second is because of what we have done in our past. The fairy tale that Wendy is now living is very possible. You can do a 360 with your career, your business and your relationships when you are not sleepwalking through life.

It’s sad to say that we have all been brainwashed into thinking that most of our desires are not only self-serving egotistical no-no’s but absurdly impossible.

BEGIN THE REVOLUTION OF A NEW OUTLOOK ON YOUR FUTURE…

1. Spend time alone; get to know yourself. Journal your dreams, meditate, pray, read self-help books, do whatever works for you at your pace, but make time to do it. Have tons of people in the house? Go for a daily walk, go to the library, get a babysitter. Just do it alone.

2. Find out what your true calling is. What are you really here to do?

3. Get rid of the “Janes” in your life. Do away with the toxic people, the emotional vampires that suck the life right out of you. These are the people who enjoy being depressed and want to take you along for the ride.

4. Surround yourself with go-getters, not acceptors!

5. Say no to pity parties. The second you feel one coming on, switch it around and start thinking about what positive outcome you want. You know a pity party is on its way when you start thinking, “Why does this always have to happen to me? I’ll never be able to pay my bills! I’m such a loser! I will never find the right mate, etc…”

Cut it out already! Stop whining and complaining and DO SOMETHING about it. Talk about your dreams and your future. Write about it and fantasize about it constantly.

Okay, some of you reading this might think…

“Simone has really lost it. This is silly – give me a freakin’ break! I don’t have any power to change my situation.”

You are SOOOO wrong, BECAUSE ANYTHING YOU WANT IS ATTAINABLE… you hear me? Anything you want.

So you make the choice. Let the revolution begin!

Own Your Power,

Simone

Want to quit your job, but don’t know where to go? Maybe it’s time to be your own boss.

But if you’re going to own your own company, you’re going to have to get over networking jitters first!

Some of us are born into families with “it,” some of us are just driven over the edge to “it,” and some of us crave “it” but just haven’t figured out how to attain “it.” That “it” is an Entrepreneurial Spirit that is a powerful force that can be the key to your success, and yes… sometimes even failure.

What I’ve discovered in my many encounters with entrepreneurs,including myself, is that many of us were just sick and tired of working for someone else. We were fed up with putting in all the hours and in many cases not feeling appreciated. We were frustrated with helping the next guy get richer, while we are still struggling to support our families. It’s that frustration that is the driving force for many of us who yearn for freedom to spread our wings. We want to call the shots; we want to take pride in our very own creations and accomplishments. And, oh yeah, when you do it right, being an entrepreneur can be an ego booster too. It just makes you want to shout from the mountaintops, “I DID IT! I FINALLY DID IT!!!!!” No mountaintops near by? The rooftop of a building will do as well. Just came down from my roof this morning. LOL! So, now the big question for 2009 is: Do you have what it takes? Yeah, we know you want the glory, but do you have the guts? I just want you to be honest with yourself before you step into this world of blood, sweat, tears and of course… freedom, happiness, and your own money, money that YOU made. Yes, it’s hard work and lots of it, but at the end of the day, it’s worth it.

The Power of Three

Are you ready to combine all of your skills that you have and build up ones that you’re lacking? Being a self-bosser, I’ve most recently discovered you have to take on three personalities. I think Michael E. Gerber, author of The E-Myth Revisited, best describes these three personalities as the entrepreneur, the technician and the manager.

So, who are these guys? And can they all just get along?

1. Entrepreneur: The entrepreneur seeks opportunities in almost everything. He is the visionary, the dreamer, the creative one and that relentless go-getter. He is the risk taker that dwells within us. He knows how to promote the heck out of his product and service and get people to rally behind his vision!
2. Manager: The manager keeps everything in order. He dots the I’s and crosses the T’s. Without him, there would be no planning quite frankly there would be no order whatsoever.
3. Technician: They develop the product or service. The technician loves to roll up his sleeves and get the job done. No time for dreaming or planning. They just want to get to work and crank out the finished product!

When you look at these three roles you may notice very different principles they all live by – which is why being a ‘multiple personality’ self-bosser can present a problem for many of us.

Do you notice which of these three attributes stand out in you? The majority of us usually all start off as a technician, working and developing something – whether it’s writing computer programs or being the head chef at a restaurant. Most likely it’s something we are doing for someone else: a boss.

The first step to building up your self-bossing muscles is to work on beefing up the areas in where you lack. If not, all of these traits will conflict with each other, even if they all want the same end result of success. Creating a balance is key.

Michael Gerber says,

“It’s the work you’re not doing, the strategic work, the entrepreneurial work, that will lead your business forward, which will give you the life you’ve not yet known… Can you see that as long as you view your business from the technician’s perspective, you are doomed…?”

“Don’t you see, if your business depends on you “the technician” you don’t own a business…you own a job and it’ s the worst job in the world because you are working like a lunatic!”

Wow, that Michael is deep, huh? He hit it right on the nose! I mean, after reading this book, I, too realized that I was doing things wrong. Even though I was working for myself, I had a job, I became that “evil boss” that works you to the bone. My inner entrepreneur and manager selves became stifled, because the technician in me wanted to work, work, work… live in the present and not plan or have a bigger vision. I was working in the NOW and not thinking about TOMORROW enough.

I challenge you all to take a look at what skills you possess out of this powerful group of THREE. It’s very rare that you can have them all work together at the same capacity, but you can work on creating a balance – without having an internal war amongst the three! You can also work on building a team of others who possess the skills that you don’t have.

Key Strengths of an Entrepreneur

Figure out what qualities you already know are working for you and what you need to focus on developing.

• Face your fears: Stepping out of your comfort zone is one of the hardest things to do. Tackling something new can be challenging but only if you let your fear take control.Learn how to face your fears by taking baby steps.

• Self starter: Now that the boss is dead, it’s up to you to develop projects, organize your time, and follow through on details.

• Decision making: You will be required to make decisions constantly. Often times your decisions will require you to be quick while under pressure and without the time to research and/or ask others their opinions.

• Organization and planning: Research shows that many businesses fail because of poor planning. Good organization of your financials, inventory, schedules, team and production can help you to avoid many pitfalls. Time management is also a trait often neglected but it can help to make you or break you.

• Motivation: Running your own company can wear anyone down. You can easily get burned out, because of the heavy burden you hold on your shoulders. You’ll need strong motivation to make the business succeed and survive through the tough times.

• Dealing with different personalities: Working relationships are going to be one of the foundations to your growth. You’ll have to be able to deal with customers, vendors, staff, bankers, accountants, lawyers and a number of other consultants. And let me tell you, not all of these experiences are going to be pleasant! Patience is going to be the major strength you’ll need to deal with others who are difficult.

• Creating… Dreaming …Doing: Having a strong vision in what you want is so important. Taking time to fantasize about your company’s future is something I encourage you all to do. Don’t just dream it,write it down and look at it every day. Take the steps to make that dream come true by breaking it up into smaller steps. Always work with the end in mind! It’s a new year and time to discover that power of three.

Own your power,

Simone

Want to start your own business, but can’t get over your first-time fears? Try this article out for a confidence boost.

Think the economy’s a reason not to start your own gig? This might change your mind!

Networking, schmoozing, making connections. Call it what you want, it’s something that is a necessity if you want to do business today. Many of us either love it or hate it. Personally, I wasn’t too fond of it in the past. Although I’m an outgoing person, I just hated starting conversations with people I had no idea what to say to. Oh yes, my friends reading this will laugh out loud. “Yeah right – Simone? Shy? She can talk anyone under the table!” Ha ha, very funny, but that is beside the point.

Many folks, even extroverts, avoid networking for the simple fact that they don’t want to talk to strangers. Some feel that they don’t have anything to offer, or don’t feel like going to a pick-up joint disguised as a networking event. Yeah, you know the ones. I actually went to one last week and I was asking where the ‘networking’ was as I looked at the dance floor full of executives doing the electric slide (I kid you not! The electric slide!) I thought, “Darn! Foiled again!” Hey, we all love to have fun, but if it’s a party, just say it’s a party!

So, you see why I got fed up and started my own event, “Give ‘N Take Network”: http://www.giventakenetwork.org. There’s still hope for us all… we can make networking work if we really think about the benefits and plan for a successful outcome.

The things that can arise from networking are amazing. Most of my best contacts are people I met at business conferences and networking events. I actually make it a point to tell my clients to schedule in at least two networking events a month that target their audiences. Being seen and heard will increase your chances of success! Not only is networking good for business, but also for your personal life!
Business Benefits

• Expand your customer base

• Get a new job or referrals

• Promote your business

Personal Benefits

• Meet new friends

• Build your self-confidence

• Have fun!

Four Easy Steps to Working a Room

1. Be Prepared

• Have a positive attitude

• Go with a purpose! What would you like to accomplish at this event?

• Bring plenty of business cards. Have a card-holder for easy access and also have a place to put cards of people that you meet.

• If you come with your buddies…make sure they know you aren’t joined at the hip. The worst thing you can be that night is a clique. When you get to the event, make it your goal to split up. That will encourage you to network even more. I know it’s hard, but you gotta cut the cord sometimes.

• If you really have a problem with clinging to others or you have friends that stick to you like glue. How about being the brave one and go alone? It will truly push you out of your comfort zone and once you do it one time, it’s much easier after that!

2. Introductions…Don’t be shy!

• Walk up to someone and introduce yourself. Make eye contact and give them a firm handshake. Okay, let me be clear: please, no Incredible Hulk grips! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had my ring imprint make me want to cry from one of those shakes. What are you people trying to prove with those grips? However, you must by all means avoid the wimpy damp-palm handshake that just collapses within the other person’s hand. If you do that, you come across just like that -wimpy or even worse, like you’re royalty and you want them to kiss your hand.

• Say your first and last name while introducing yourself. Once they tell you their name, here are some tricks to remember it!

A. Listen for the name and repeat it, “Nice to meet you, Nadine.”

B. Use the name in your conversation.

C. Play name association games to remind yourself, such as Nadine from New Jersey or Navy Nadine (because she had on a navy blue suit.) This is my personal favorite since I have the memory of a 90-year-old sometimes!

• With a little dash of confidence and charm, share with your new acquaintance who you are. Make sure you smile and maintain eye contact with them. Plan your 30-second introduction beforehand. Your intro is just your tagline. Basically, it’s a couple of sentences of who you are, what you do to get them interested, and start the conversation. Make sure you ask them about themselves as well.

• Small Talk: A little small talk makes folks feel comfortable and at ease. Try not to brag, or impress, but just act natural. You will already have something in common since you are at the same event, so why not start by talking about that? Common interests can be excellent conversation starters. Understanding your similarities takes the edge off.

i.e.: “So, you’re an entrepreneur too? How long have you been in business for yourself?” or something like, “Nice to meet you too, Nadine! First time at a National Squirrel Lovers Convention?” (just making sure you are awake…I crack myself up, excuse me.)

As suggested by Networking Guru, Susan Roane, try using the OAR TACTIC.

Observe
Ask
Reveal

It’s a great way to break the ice and begin an engaging conversation. Remember…being a good listener is key!

3. Seal the Deal

• So, you’ve had your small talk, found out how you can help each other and have exchanged cards. Make sure you LOOK at the card when they hand it to you. Don’t just shove it in your pocket. That’s just rude! Looking at the card will help you remember their name as well. After you walk away, you can write on the back of their card what you are going to do for each other, or some tips to remind you who they are, i.e.: Guy in the black hat who was friends with Bill. Has a client that needs my service.

4. Follow up

• You might want to end the conversation like, “I’ll send you an email tomorrow regarding blah blah blah.” Or “I’ll call you on Tuesday so we can finish our conversation about …”. Following up is not only the best part, but the MOST important part of networking.

Like I always say: “Talk is Cheap!” If you don’t follow up, you just wasted precious time shooting the breeze.

Hope these tips will help you work that room at your next event.
Happy networking!

Simone

Once you get your networking skills down, you’ll be able to BARTER!

Feeling the pressure of the recession? Use your networking skills to get your independent business up and running!

It’s about time you tapped into your buried treasures, don’t ya think?

I tell my clients all the time: your list is GOLD. After years of networking and cultivating my contacts, I’ve been able to build a nice-sized mailing list. I developed my own event and women’s network, and although I didn’t know it at the time… it was the start of something big.

I started to see a demand to get in touch with my audience of women entrepreneurs and the resources I have access to. I finally realized what my buried treasure was. In addition, I have my marketing background that can help out many of my business partners. My podcast that can give them more exposure is definitely a plus as well. So, when I need something that I might want to spend the cash on, I dig into my pot of buried treasures and see if I can find a match for my prospect.

Now, I’ve seen many people shy away from the idea of bartering, because they don’t realize what their buried treasure is. They don’t realize that what they are sitting on is probably worth a lot more than they think.

Do you have something that you might not even realize is of value to the next businessperson? What’s your buried treasure that you haven’t tapped into?

Contacts: Do you have a healthy mailing list and address book? Do you network a lot and know who’s who. From business referrals to cool restaurants to dine in, you never know what you can offer people. If you can be the GO-TO PERSON for many, trust me, you’ll be a valuable asset to many!

Skills: What are you trained in? Are you an amazing presenter or chef? Can you design websites, teach Belly Dancing, make handbags? Are you a whiz in Finance, Art, or Producing Commercials? What are some things you do full-time and even in your spare time that is a talent that you can offer to the world?

Knowledge (insider secrets): I’m not talking stock exchange now, I don’t want you to get locked up. I don’t think you can barter bail. LOL! But maybe you were the first in your industry to do something different. Are you a copywriting pro for e-mail marketing campaigns? Do you know how to beat parking tickets? (True story¦ a woman at one of my events bartered these tips with another woman for business tips. She used to be a parking attendant.)

Spend a few minutes brainstorming and build up your list of things you have access too and I’m sure you’ll be very surprised.

Ask yourself: What do you have access to, what can you do better than anyone else you know? Ask yourself, what’s your buried treasure? What do you have that’s a pot of gold to someone else? What do you have The key is bartering smart is where you don’t have to use too much energy or time. It might be something you have right now collecting dust in your garage, something as simple as an overstock of inventory, maybe?

When you’re bartering with individuals on a one-to-one barter, here are some tips.

Some guidelines to keep in mind before you get started:

• When working on projects for each other, our goal should be to MEET AND EXCEED the needs of that person.

• We all have expertise in various areas and can do incredible things as long as we see eye-to-eye and are in agreement before we get started.
• The barter can be considered a short-term partnership. You do your part, and I’ll do mine. Therefore, take the focus off of “me” and put it on “we”.

• Don’t know the person’s work? Ask for up to three referrals of past customers. It’s up to YOU and no one else to do the research before you come to an agreement.

• Do your best. Your work and attitude is a reflection of you. People make decisions about you based on your work ethics. Always remember, your reputation is your wealth!

• Be professional. Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

• Be responsible. Manage your time and commitments. Confirm meetings a day before. If you are going to be late or can’t make a meeting, please be conscious of each other’s time. Missing meetings and being irresponsible doesn’t sit well with anyone and quite frankly you might not get a second chance! Don’t burn your bridges … you never know who can help you.

• Pay attention, listen, and take notes, so that “we” understand what the job entails and “we” can deliver on the services. There may be details that are not included in the agreement.

• Professionalism, sensitivity, consideration, respect, and integrity are key attributes to not only operating within a barter network, but in business in general. It’s important to be authentic and be true to our word. Our WORD is so important!

How Does It Work?

• Discuss exactly what you are doing for each other. Describe services/products and expectations up front so that there are no surprises in the end.

• Be clear about what you charge. It’s hard to barter with someone who doesn’t have a set fee structure or who can’t tell you how much they charge for specific services. Barter dollar for dollar. I’ll give you $500 worth of work for $500 worth of work. When bartering, keep a list of SPECIFIC deliverables for each barter session.

• Put all details IN WRITING. What is the monetary value? What are you both delivering? What’s the deadline? Have both parties SIGN the agreement. It doesn’t have to be filled with legalese that no one understands! Contracts are highly recommended. If you’re not paying cash, that does NOT mean that you don’t have expectations of deliverables. Bartering is a valid business deal just like any other. If you start putting things down in a contract, the other person is less likely to behave unprofessionally.

After the Barter is Completed…

Don’t just end it there, keep the relationship going:

• Provide each other with testimonials for your website and/or marketing materials

• Refer clients to one another and offer a finders fee of 10-15%

• Exchange website/blog links

• Offer discounts to each other for future cash paying projects

• Do a personal assessment. Provide them with a survey to get feedback on your performance. See where you are doing a great job and where you can use some improvement. You know what you did well and the areas that you need to improve. Make a commitment to do better the next time.

I’m sorry, but I can’t end without telling you that Big Brother is watching you. Good Old Uncle Sam does want you to tell him about your barter deals. In fact, the IRS offers no loophole whatsoever for bartered transactions. According to the IRS, the fair market value of bartered products and services must be included in income during the tax year it is received. Make sure you speak with your accountant to find out how to file.

Keep Livin’ Good,
Simone

Have YOU tapped into the world of bartering?

Take a moment to step outside yourself. Now, be honest with me here… if you could be your own boss, how would you rate your own performance in the last three months? Would you get a raise, a day off as a treat, or would a big and brawny security guy kindly escort you to the parking lot?

In order to be an effective marketer (and a progressive human being, for that matter), you have to take a breather and look in the mirror. What are you doing that’s working, and what can you do to improve?

What are you actually doing in all your busy days running from meeting to meeting, answering calls, or a zillion emails? Are you remembering your goals or your MISSION? Have you sat down and actually taken the time to write out your goals and your mission?

I read somewhere once that you should give yourself a “Company Evaluation” every month to make note of your progress and see where you still need to tighten up your act. I made a similar format to the evaluation form used at one of my past jobs. I tried it on myself for a few months, and it really helps me refocus and remember what my overall VISION was in the first place. It also brings my strengths and weaknesses to the forefront!

Try it out and rate yourself at the end of the month to see how you did. Here’s an example of how to do it. List your responsibilities and objectives and rate each one, 1 being the worst and 5 being the best:

Evaluation of The Sweet Tooth (Pastry company):

• Make an income of $3,000+ with orders for June: 2

• Develop a buzz about my company: 4

• Increase catering for events to at least 5 parties per month: 4

• Improve time management: 1

• Manage and build an effective team: 5

Pros: I did great with developing buzz, because of the press I received in the Daily News. Giving the editor free pies worked!

Cons: I was late for two important meetings because of poor time management.
I like to write out the pros and cons of the overall performance as well. What did you do exceptionally well, and why? What are the steps needed to make next month’s evaluation better? When you elaborate on your highs and lows you can be your own coach to some extent. You can then set goals to make improvements instead of floating through each month with no direction. Having this on paper will stop you from repeating the same destructive patterns. You might even want to get a folder or binder to keep them all in and monitor your progress.

Break It Down!

• Review your schedule a week in advance. (Sounds easy enough, but most of us rarely do this – even with Mr. Palm Pilot in our lives.)

• Break up big projects into baby steps.

• Delegate, Delegate, DELEGATE! There is always someone who can help you. Just master the art of picking the RIGHT person for the task.

• Set deadlines for every task, no matter how small. Okay, I’ll admit that I’m good for thinking something is a very small project and “a piece a cake”, until 10 of those small pieces of cake pile up and make a big mess. So, set a deadline for the small project and get it outta the way.

• Know your best times of day to work. (Are you a morning person or do you like burning the midnight oil?)

• AND my favorite that I’m just getting the hang of: LEARN HOW TO SAY NO! You can’t please everybody.

Alright now… go shine up that mirror, take a nice long look, and let me know if you see the same reflection next month. Hopefully, you’ll see someone on a whole other level. I’ll be waiting to hear from ya.

Own Your Power,

Simone Kelly-Brown

Are you ready to LOVE YOURSELF?

You can’t self-reflect until you face your biggest business fears!

Never underestimate the power of the written word. When you pitch someone in person about your company, certain things might remain on their minds more than others. It all depends on your tone, body language and inflection. However, once that ink hits the paper, your message is there for them to absorb, dissect, and unfortunately even score two points in the office wastebasket.

Remember, your writing represents you and your business. Everything you send out – whether it’s an e-mail or a proposal – represents YOU. Don’t feel intimidated or that you need an MFA in English in order to write your own marketing materials.

What to Write?

• How-To articles

• Business trends for your industry

• A weekly or monthly column in a magazine or e-zine

• A book related to your industry and experience

• Monthly newsletter

• Press kit materials (bio, company backgrounder, etc.)

• Website copy

Note: Always include your byline in articles (Your name, description of company, and contact information.)

When you are writing about your topic, the expertise you are displaying is your soft sell. No need to bang people over the head with your credentials or your company’s products and services. If you are sincerely helpful with your advice, (Gots To Have It specializes in Online Marketing and Web Design.) people will remember you in the long run. There’s no need for subliminal messages throughout your text.

Content Brainstormin’

• Come up with topic ideas you are well versed in and that are related to your industry

• Go through your list of contacts and see who can help you get published (an article in a magazine, online newsletter, a review of a book or product, etc.)

• Utilize any organizations you belong to, alumni, local newspapers, trade magazines (online and off), etc.

• Surf the Internet and look for sites that might be in need of your content.

Although you might not be paid with cash, your reward of putting your name in the face of the public is the tradeoff!

Do it Write!

• Choose a style you feel most comfortable with and that also appeals to your audience. (Is it informative, provocative, humorous, conversational, etc.?)

• Write with a purpose; each communication should focus on a point.

• Know your audience and speak their language.

• Never send a letter out the same day you write it. Look at it the next day and read it as if you were the target of the letter.

Get Extra Eyes

Hire a professional copy editor to help you out or if it’s something quick and you want to conserve your money, call on the extra eyes of friends, your Uncle Joe, co-workers, and employees to read your materials over for you. Sometimes there are things you won’t catch, no matter how many times you review it!

Benefits of Using Writing as a Marketing Tool

• Writing increases your visibility, credibility and helps establish you as an expert in your field. Experts are always in demand for writing and public speaking.

• Not only are you branding yourself, your research needed to write various materials will keep you on your toes.

• It reinforces your image and adds prestige.

• Writing can be cost effective publicity.

Advertising Copywriter’s Secret (Shhh – you didn’t hear it from me!)

Back in college, my favorite class was advertising copy writing, and my professor shared an ancient marketing secret with us. I feel the time is right to reveal it to you :).

The most important word you’ll ever use in your copy is YOU. Let’s face it, we want to know how product A can help us right away. Don’t you get sick of hearing all the details and ingredients and want to cut to the chase? “What can you do for me?” is the lingering question we all want answered right away.

When a product or service speaks to YOU you’ll be more inclined to pay attention. Here’s an example:

Product US: We are great at helping people lose weight with our fat burning pills. Look good for the summer and call us today!

Product YOU: Don’t you wanna look good for the summer? We’ll help you lose weight with our fat burning pills! Call us today!

See the difference? Product YOU speaks to you more doesn’t it? ~nod your head politely even if you don’t see it~ LOL!

Self-interest rules our “me first” society. Now, take a look at your own marketing materials and circle how many times you say YOU or Yours vs. Our and WE. You might be surprised! Good luck… now ‘git to writing!

Own your power,

Simone

Writing may help you get over your biggest business fears!

Suffering from writer’s block? Meditate!