Green or What?

Geez, can it really be so long since I last wrote? Amazing.

This one I really had to share. Sometimes I lose sight of just how lucky I am, and it can be the smallest thing that reminds me. Here we live in a country of such abundance, and many of us are so spoiled, that we don't even realize it. (yes, that includes me) The other day I was at the market. There's a place near here that sells the best organic chicken. Its SO good that the stuff at the 'regular' store kinda grosses me out. The bar has been raised for me on what good chicken is. Kind of similar to how a great brand seeps into your habits until you can't live without the value you receive from it, right?

Well, that's kind of obvious, but there's more. This is a high end store, and it does offer some unusual items. On this particular day they were showing some green and white asparagus side by side. I overheard someone say, 'I didn't even know there WAS white asparagus'. This was uttered quietly with reverance and awe. And that's when it hit me.

Now, this may not seem big to you, but stay with me for a minute. This woman now knows there really are white asparagus. She has knowledge which alters her awareness. Not only of what the store is capable of providing for her, but a new awareness of her world.

This can seem like no big deal, right? But think about it. You have the same opportunity. To show a client or prospect something they didn't know, they didn't know. Once that light goes on, once your awareness shifts, your world can include something that can be quite valuable. So what do you offer that can shift someone's perspective? Here I spoke of chicken and asparagus. But every day there are millions of opportunities for us to help our clients shift and include awareness about something you provide.

At the beginning I mentioned how spoiled we are. What I mean is that so much of what we have access to is SO readily available that we don't discern the specialness of our experience. It's an interesting time of year to request that we all slow down. Because when we do, we'll see information that is super valuable, to our lives and to our businesses, yet we often rush right by. Slow down and see what you can learn today to apply to your business tomorrow.

And if you're in the middle of planning for next year, this is an excellent tool to utilize. Listen, observe, and apply. Three steps to greater results.

Keep shining!
Judy

Different? Maybe not so much...

I just got back from a great conference hosted by Lisa Sasevich. It was interesting to see who was in the room, and what types of businesses were represented given her topic: Sales, which is quite a sweeping category. It was a great reminder for me that no matter what business you're in, there is much to gain from these discussions.

Many of us think that our business is 'different' or for whatever reason it's hard to see how the tactics and principles I discuss pertain to you in particular. Today's topic pertains to every business no matter what you're up to. You may be selling widgets, photography or healing, you still need to notice how you're positioning yourself in your market.

Further, this is the perfect time to assess and seriously look at this for your business. After all, to grow your business you must be positioned for that growth! Consider companies that you admire to learn some valuable tips:

* Many large businesses are introducing new products and services - regardless of the chatter about 'the economy'. They know this is a time to position themselves for success.

* Look in any major publication (or on t.v.) and see those who are not cutting back on ad dollars, but are adding to them. Traditional advertising may not be the best use of your budget, but creative thinking to reach your market should not be relaxed...ever!

* Consider how you're perceived in your market... and look at what it would take to be perceived as either an expert or market leader. Whether you're in insurance or trucking, this is a great time to gain market share.

Consider how you can re-introduce, re-package, re-invent
and re-position to leverage yourself in your marketplace. If you don't know, find out. No matter whether you've been around for some time or if you're just getting started, positioning is KEY for successful branding.

During this process:
* Be sure your product/service: Uses language the audience relates to.

* Reflects their (your audiences) values as well as your own.

* Be authentic to attract your ideal clients.

Most of all, take control and remember that you are the one who will orchestrate your place in the marketplace.

Keep shining,

Judy

Take flight

I almost missed my plane today. Even as I type that it seems absurd. Up before my 4:30am alarm went off, then out of bed in minutes walking the dog in the dark still morning. The moon was full and shining brightly. Amazed that I felt SO awake, I gathered the last of my things and headed out. Even with the stop for coffee, I got to the airport super early, and sat down at my gate to wait. Starting a new book and people watching I heard them start to announce my flight, but I never heard my ‘zone’ called. Finally out of impatience I moved closer, just in time to hear the last call for boarding! What?? I was only reading my book, how could I have missed that?

Sitting on the plane later I noticed that this happens to us in business too. We think we’re listening, that we’re sensitive to all that’s happening around us, we’re even watching it all unfold….but are we really present?

Here I was. On time. Wide awake. Ready to go. Thinking I’m fully present… then jarred by the realization that I’m not.

Now I want to know, where else is that occurring? Where else am I halfway engaged fooling myself into thinking I’m fully in the game?

After wondering what had changed, it came to me. Focus. That was the important factor that was missing. Each element of my morning had been done before, orchestrated hundreds of times, habits with the twist of a new day. BUT I failed to focus at an important moment, one that meant the difference between making the flight or not.

I ask you… what important focus are you missing that would mean the difference between taking flight or being derailed from your very important plans?

Keep shining!
Judy

Hanging with the Peas

I suppose its time I admit it… I’m getting old! This weekend I had the pleasure of attending a few concerts, which I haven’t done in like a year and they were really great. In addition, there were so many mini-marketing lessons that I had to share with you. Now you may already know this, but knowing and experiencing it in this every-sense-on-alert type of way was super. Never having seen the Black Eyed Peas before (except in videos) I had no idea what I was in for. This concert was SO great. A combo of techno, rock, ‘80s, Vegas show, rap, pussycat dolls and I don’t know what else….drama, choreography, computer graphics, theatrics… OY! They managed to have it all, creating a WOW! factor I haven’t seen in ages, and although the cheesy/kitsch factor was high too, it was done with such a giggle every age group was entranced. Here are a few points/areas that added up to success:

• The diversity of the group has a lot to do with their success. There are a few different types to relate to, and of course one really hot chic.
• They had fun with each song (or product) and didn’t take themselves to seriously.
• There was a blend of high-tech and low-tech that was a feast for the senses.
• The attention paid to details was obvious and communicated a sense of commitment and care.
• Each song had a simple, and I mean simple message that was worked (and exploited) for maximum impact
• They made it all look SO easy, so it felt like they were really over-delivering. Word was that it was the best show ever at that event (and that’s since ’91).

All of these items added up to creating an unforgettable experience which is what an Unforgettable Brand is all about. So are you wondering how to apply this to your biz? Well here you go:

• Creating a diverse line of offerings will have something for everyone in your niche to relate to.
• Fun is uber attractive… for your business too!
• High-tech (like the web) and low-tech (like snail mail) allow you to maximize the experience.
• Details are key… they communicate quality and care.
• Your message doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple, yet memorable is what you’re going for.
• If you can under promise and over deliver, that’s a great way to ensure return business.

So there you go. Easy, yet super valuable business lessons from a bunch of rockers. Imagine that?!

Keep shining,

Judy

Rockin' it

Just had a weekend that was WAY off the map of my expectations. Went to a place in Utah I had never visited that was mondo beautiful in an awe inspiring way. After driving through a narrow gorge of a canyon that opened up to a small, brand new (seemingly) town, I arrived at a sprawling yet intimate spa called Red Mountain. There I connected with a handful of amazing women, who I am delighted to know. (More on that another time.)

But here's what I wanted to share with you. We got up before daybreak to hike in the red hills before the heat rolled in. The guides were practiced, the group eager, the trail ever changing. We moved quickly picking our way, some with sure feet while others stumbled a bit. Since I'd never been there I found myself having to watch where I was going. So, I followed this eager group as they plowed on, and what I found is exactly what happens in life.

• In order to keep up, I kept my head down and focused on each step.
• As we rushed forward, there was no way I could lift my head and look around to get the 'bigger picture'.
• When we got to the end of the path, I had no real sense of where we'd been, no appreciation for how far we'd traveled.
  
• Focusing so hard, I lost out on the beauty of the journey a bit.

I'm the kind who likes to stop, breathe deep, look around, appreciating my surroundings and taking some photos to remember the trip. Just like how we grow our businesses. When we stay in our daily routine without lifting our heads we lose out. We miss out on a:

• New view.
• New ways of seeing possibilities.
• We miss the beauty of the moment, rushing towards the 'finish' line.
• We also miss some of the opportunities to deepen our experience as we gloss over the surface.

So, as you move forward on your trek consider slowing down. I know its not for everyone, but consider it. You may be missing a lot more than the view. You may be missing some of the most memorable times of your life, and some really valuable information that could ROCK your business.

Keep shining,

Judy

Yum! I'm addicted!

I'm having withdrawals. Withdrawals from... cheese steaks. It's been a week since I've had one. I can still smell the sauteed onions, in that yummy grease, see the ooey gooey cheese squeezing out from the blanket of meat, all wrapped in the roll that smells like it was just made a moment ago.... See? I'm sick. None of that is healthy or in any way good for me, but I can't help it! Just driving onto the street where I know the shop is located gets me going... I'm drawn to it like a moth to flame. I had 3 last week when I was in Margate New Jersey, home of Dino's, my favorite place to get a Philly style cheese steak. YUM!

Now you may be asking, 'what's this got to do with brand building Judy?', and I say, 'Everything!'... you see my experience with Dino's is the epitome of what a brand is all about. Everything about the experience is the same today as it was 15 or more years ago. Same location. Same interior. Same product (with some additions). Even the same guys are there to anchor the new kids as the learn the craft of creating this product. The chips are in the same spot in the shop. The scent as you enter town is the same.

What this speaks to is one of the big C's of Branding: CONSISTENCY. Consistency is critical for a brand to succeed. Remember when Coke changed its formula? That didn't work out so well. Look at what you're creating and notice how you're creating a consistent experience. See where you could tweak and do so now...

• Look at how you connect with potential clients.
• Look at how you offer your products/services.
• Consider how your visuals support your business.
• Revisit your core messages and be sure they're effective and aligned.

These are some places to start to be sure that your brand is consistently delivering as you'd like. Check your product, check for consistency in all areas so that your client can rely on the experience you promise, then go reward yourself with a Cheese Steak or another yummy choice. ;)

Keep Shining,
Judy

Whispering results

The other day I was gloriously being a slug. After all, I was on holiday and could do whatever I wanted. So, I was channel surfing and fell upon the Dog Whisperer show. It captivated me because it was all about a bad bad dog that was about to be given up on. (Kind of like the way we give up on our business growth). What looked like no hope, complete despair, was an opportunity for Cesar to save the day (he's the Whisperer if you didn't know). He did so with a few key actions, and the critter and its people are off to live a happy life. All good, but underneath were some really great lessons.

Here are just a few from that one show that you can apply to your business:

• Find a niche that you love and really go after it. (Really how many dog whisperer experts do you know?)
• We sense each other's energy and respond accordingly. (When you're calm, so is the dog, when you're anxious so are they. People also respond to energy although we forget that. Try getting a job/client when you're freaking out, it rarely works.)
• It IS possible to make lots of $$ doing what you love. (We just need to be creative about it. Different thinking begets different results.)
• Every one of us has a stellar creature inside. (Even this bad dog did, and with love and understanding it was coaxed out.)
• Doing the same thing you've always done will get you the same results. (It wasn't until Cesar tried something new that the dog began to behave differently.)
• Speaking quietly can be extremely effective. (It isn't about being louder, it's about connecting with your audience.)
• Never give up! (It may take longer than you thought, and then again it may not.)

Each of these points when applied can make a massive difference in your business, in your marketing, and ultimately in your success. Any one of them can yield a completely new result than what you're presently creating. I challenge you to take one (if not all) and explore how it can apply to you. The outcome may surprise you!

Keep shining,

Judy

The road to greatness

It never occurred to me that I'd grow up and be attracted to guys with funny names, but that's what has happened. No one has come close to the likes of Bucky, Wallace, and now our dearly departed Walter. The first two are long gone, but Walter's passing recently has caused me some reflection. One of my neighbors repeated the phrase that so many of us have heard, that 'Walter Cronkite was the last newsman you could really trust.' How true that is for me. I've become an anti-news advocate, feeling that much of what's released is some form of propaganda which is a far cry from the type of news Walter delivered.

Further it had me fall into the sphere of Branding where I am so likely to be found. We know for instance that Walter had the big three:

• We Liked Him
• We Trusted Him
• And We Felt Like We Knew Him

But it was more than that wasn't it? Here was a man that personified a brand. I wonder if he was fully intentional in his creation, or if it was just his way of being. Some of his brand attributes included (but are certainly not limited to):

• His voice.
• His signature line, 'and that's the way it is.'
• His ability to get in the trenches (literally) with his subjects.
• His eye-glasses.
• His style of delivering facts, yet leaving room for editorial opinion at the end of a broadcast.
• The way he connected with the camera.
  

Walter Cronkite was a brand unto himself. His age was completely irrelevant. He was respected and had a loyal following throughout his career. He integrated his values into the very fabric of his persona. He enjoyed his work, thought it important, and we shared that with him. SO much has changed in the field of news, there's not much room for a Cronkite these days. I've learned lots from Wally and will miss him. What can you learn from such an icon?

As we grow and learn and look at these most original thinkers, I know that I intend to follow my voice, my heart, my own vision. To get lost in what others do, isn't the path to greatness. Forging my own... now that's a worthwhile pursuit.

And that's the way it is.

Keep shining,
Judy

Coming out (of the cave)

Isn't it funny how the Universe shows us what we need to learn? Well, for me this week has been a great reminder. It's been coming up a bunch lately. 'Gotta quit hiding'... I've been called on it by my coach and a few others, and I'm seeing it in those I speak with too. Now, I can hide with the best. I love my house (my cave) and basically I'm an introvert, which most who meet me can't believe because I also enjoy people and the interaction with the world. So it doesn't take much for me to choose staying in over going out. And when I say in, I mean it. No phone, no connecting with the outside other than scheduled appointments. BUT, and this is no joke, I am SUPER clear that this life is meant to be lived. Lived FULLY, and listen folks that definitely means leaving the house. After all, it is my belief that your house/apt./room, can be just like a coffin. A boxed area you spend untold quantities of time. Not only is that no way to live your days, its also no way for any of us to grow our businesses!!! So, its time. Get on out there... and I'll expect to see you when you do.

Here's how you might begin this week:

• Today, go somewhere you don't normally.
• Attend a meeting you haven't before. It's called 'networking'.
  
• Find a new activity/class to join.
• Pick up the phone and call a client you haven't spoken to in awhile.
• Then call someone you've never spoken to before! (breathe before this one).

When you add this all up what does it equal? M-A-R-K-E-T-I-N-G. Yup, living fully means sharing what you do, who you are, and what you're passionate about. That's the essence of marketing. Something we do every day!

Let me know how that goes. Because I found it to be SO much fun, and even profitable. Imagine that?! Now, I'm heading out, because its Sunday and the last place to be is at my computer!

Keep Shining,
Judy

Three brands go in a week

Well, it's gotten to a point where a comment is begging to be made. Yes, it's true, we've lost Ed, Farrah and M.J. all in one weeks time. These larger than life personalities represent three generations who recognize them merely by their first name. Okay, maybe Ed needs to be accompanied by Johnny Carson to have full recognition, but with only a few words, millions know exactly who I'm referencing. Each one of these people typify a brand, have long been invested in brand principles and applications, and have benefited (and also been imprisoned) by their brand identities. Just for fun, see if these brand principles are those you could apply to building your brand presence:

• Distinctive style in regards to clothing, hair, or accessories. (You could easily create this for yourself with glasses, a new 'do' or even your socks! But extend it to your logo, your USP and your materials too.)
• A special way of relating with others. (Through music, a smile, a booming voice and easy laugh? Become an expert with articles, or other products and services.)
• Committing to being the best in your field. (Each made a mark on a particular avenue of self expression. Farrah broke her contract to pursue her dreams. What will position you for future success?)

Seriously, as you begin to see how these three bright stars found themselves at the pinnacle of their craft, you will see that there are lessons here... some to be duplicated and others to avoid. How can we each be seen as a shining star in our own pursuits?

I for one will be buying even more cool eye glass frames, getting my teeth whitened, and working on my speaking voice as I move forward. And my commitment will be renewed. What do you want to be known for? Today is a great time to take stock and begin moving in that direction. Establish yourself as an expert in your niche, whether its business or acting, its all life. Follow your heart, be exactly who you are, play up what others may say to play down, and have the courage to know that the path you are on is the one for you and you alone.

We may be surrounded by others, but to make a mark we travel a solo path...

Keep shining!
Judy

Tony, Andrea and Me!

Okay, I have to share. This blog, the one you're reading has been named as a Best Blog! That's right. Best 100 Business and Life Coaching Blogs! You must check it out. I'm along side folks like Tony Robbins, Andrea J. Lee, another local notable Ken Donaldson and many other esteemed in the coaching world. I'm quite honored. Further, I'm the lone branding specialist on the list. So for some nice, light summertime reading see this site for lots of great material in one place. You may find some great gems here, other than me. ;)

Keep shining,
Judy

Meeting Seth

I was just watching a video by Seth Godin about social networking. Now, I think the man's a genius, but this time I think he's a bit mistaken. Or perhaps he doesn't 'need' to network at this point in his career, so his experience is different than mine, the average bear. This whole social networking phenomenon has been an absolute blast for me, and I'm sure there are others who would say that they've gotten much more awareness about who they are and what they offer, have gained exposure, sales, and followers that would have taken much longer to nurture into clients.

For myself, I'm having such fun with it, I wouldn't go back. Back to my cave of not knowing, where I didn't meet such new amazing people from all around the globe. Almost daily I meet talented, bright, engaging business people who I would never have known without it. I've reached out and talked to some awesome individuals, some who are tops in their field. I'm able to interact with other marketing mavens I admire, and I've even collaborated with a few so far. Each day as I talk with someone new I'm pleasantly surprised at the caliber of small business people who are carving out new markets, at the brilliant minds out there, and the passion each one brings to their niche. It's a big world, and these sites are making it easier for us to connect, to get to know each other and to share resources and excitement with one another. This will translate into dollars and move us all to more prosperous outcomes. Besides that, you can bet others in your field are involved, or will be soon.

So although I haven't been in touch with Seth yet, he's only a click away! If you're ready jump into social networking and see what it holds for you...and if you meet Seth first, send him my way. Who knows, we could become friends.... since we DO have lots in common and could probably talk for hours. ;)

Keep shining,
Judy

(p.s... find me on FB, Twitter, LinkedIn or Fastpitch)

Feed your business

I've been learning quite a bit from my dog lately. They're such great teachers, often in ways that are different from human 'children'. The other day I was driving home from an appointment, in a bit of a hurry because it was time to let my dog out. Yet, it was also important to stop by the grocery and grab some food for her too, so I was driving fast to get it all done as quickly as possible. Concerned that driving faster than the speed limit could have repercussions, I imagined myself saying to the cop, 'But officer, my puppy has to go poo-poo!', which made me giggle. I started noticing all the time I spend nurturing and thinking about my dog. How much time is spent in a single day planning for her, making sure she has what she needs. Then if that time was multiplied by the twelve years I've had her.... OY! That's alot of time! Of course, I also feel she's worth it, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Do you feel the same way about a pet of yours?

Then my thoughts turned to my business ( I know, it simply can't be helped, that's what my brain does)... and I began to wonder about the ways I nurture, or don't nurture my own business. How bout you? Do you send your business the kind of love and caring you extend to your pets? Do you spend time daily stroking, brushing or feeding your business with love? With the same energy and hope reserved for those special someone's in your life?

I decided then and there to begin an experiment. I'm taking the next 8 weeks to try it out, and I've already started. Here's the guidelines, and please, do play along too, and let's all see what happens.

• Each day I'm going to spend time doing an action that makes my business feel good. That may be writing an article, posting to this blog, sending a card, making a call or attending an event.
• Each day I will also connect with clients to see how they are, and send them this loving energy too.
• And each day I will look to see what my business could use that would enable it to grow to its fullest,what I can 'feed' it to make it strong and vibrant.

So that's it. I've learned from my sweetie pie, and I'm going to treat my business as a special friend, and feed it only the best organic ingredients. Yum! To your health!

Keep shining,
Judy

Look out for Fire!

This past weekend I attended yet another event. It was a really special experience hosted by Maria Gamb. If you don't know of Maria, you'll want to check her out. She's not only smart, talented, and excellent at assessing people (she called me on my 'stuff' immediately), she's also real, and warm, and super easy to be around. Besides Maria the room was filled with awesome women, many of whom are just beginning to see how powerful they truly are. That was really beautiful to watch.

I was reminded of how much we each have to offer, and of something else that is quite valuable to me, and perhaps to you too. As small business owners we have a passion, a burning desire to bring something to the world. Sometimes we lose touch with that desire, yet once it's ignited, or re-ignited, or flamed into a huge fire of desire we become much more powerful. When that passion, that fire is paired with a strong belief/faith in ourselves, our products/services, we are inspired! Inspired to take action. Actions that will fuel our beliefs and our passion and keep this glorious cycle alive. Beyond simply alive to thriving.

Thriving is where we want to go. The difference between living this cycle with moderate interest in paying our bills, and giving this cycle our hearts, minds and full blown passion will be seen in the results. Sustained in the place of passion we thrive! And I for one, want that passionate thriving, that burning desire to believe, and all the actions inspired thereafter.

So come with me... look for a way to fan the flames of desire into white hot heat, then believe and construct actions, and watch us FLY!!

Keep shining,
Judy

Lessons from furry friends

Yesterday my dog wasn't feeling good. She was moping around and didn't want to eat (which is unbelievable for her). I was concerned for her, as she's getting older and since she doesn't say much, it's never really clear what's bothering her, and often I'm left to make up my own conclusions based on very little information.

Have you ever noticed that your clients can be like that too? You may notice subtle changes in their behavior, but no direct indication of their needs/wants/desires. You're left to use your intuition and surmise if they're having a bad day in general or if they've got an issue with you in particular. It's best to find out, deal with it, and move on.

Communication is the key, with your furry friends and your clients as well. Here's an opportunity to build a stronger relationship by:

• Acknowledging that you're sensing a problem.
• Asking for confirmation of your intuition.
• Being clear that you're available to address any topic.
• Relaying a story from your own experience that may put your client at ease.

Your intuition is a valuable asset. To be a trusted business colleague takes more than doing your 'job' for any client. It also includes the willingness to assist wherever you may serve. Perhaps its off topic, it may be an area where you're not an expert, but as a feeling, sensitive person, your value to another is measured by your ability to connect. Connect with your heart, your mind, your skills, and your clients will view you as an expert in the most important topic: them.

Keep shining!
Judy

A new day

Over the weekend I completed a course that focused on how we use our energy to create a leap in our quantum Wealth...only to my surprise (I thought mon*ey when they said wealth), it became much bigger than that for me. It became about riches in all areas of my life. Richness in spirit, in health, in the texture of life, in the way I view who I am. I'm actually much wealthier than when the course began 6 weeks ago... mostly in ways I could not have imagined.

Much of the course was rocky, a roller coaster of emotion, energy and discoveries. Some days I was so tired and drained, then hours later energized like crazy. I've now become so motivated and clear, that I'm pumping out work, plans and ideas at a real clip.

I wanted to post here and ask others:

• Where could your business use more energy?
• Where are you busy when you could be productive?
• What are you longing to do that you've been too fearful to begin?
• Where is fear keeping you stuck?

Answers to these and many more questions have been answered for me.... for the moment... and I'm excited to embark on a new chapter. A chapter where I step into what's possible, rather than focusing on being stuck. Where moving forward is joyous, and exciting... and productive.

Woo--HOOOO!!!! More to come!! Welcome to a NEW Day!!

Keep shining,
Judy

A graduated perspective

This past week I attended a high school graduation. Gee, its been a long time since I'd done that! I graduated many moons ago, so this was a great opportunity to reflect on all that has happened in the last few decades. What I realized is that its very similar to how we think about our businesses. Time goes so fast that we rarely stop to consider all we've accomplished. We may worry and notice what needs to happen, what we've done 'wrong', yet how often do we focus on what's gone 'right'? Graduation is a time to commemorate the end result, no matter how we got there.

So today, I challenge you to honor yourself! I did this over the weekend and it was quite interesting. There are a few steps:

1. Recall what you were like when you graduated from school. (For instance: I was pretty nervous about going to work, then found out I love my work life. I was kind of shy too.)
2. Next, think about what happened in the first few years after that. Notice how much you grew, and what you accomplished. (Wow, when I thought about that first decade out of school SO much happened that I would never have imagined!)
   
3. Then consider those same areas during the next decade. Recall any special achievements, or any big occurance that changed your view of the world or yourself. Its kind of cool to notice the good stuff, and see how you've grown.
4. Keep it up til the present time to see how you're moving forward in your life.

Then do the same with your business life, or include that in the above process. For me its quite interwoven, so it all came rushing in like a giant movie. I was able to see how much I've grown, how much I've accomplished, and how this journey has actually been a pretty cool ride. The process helped put into context the 'bad' stuff and this broader view gave me a deep appreciation for all that's been. All of it.

So, as you move forward with your business, take time to recall where you've been. Take time to focus on what makes you special (that is your brand position after all). Ask yourself how you can leverage all that you are. Focus on your fabulous-ness. Be the biggest fan you or your business could ever have, and see what happens next.

Keep shining!
Judy

The bird and the squirrel

Today as I was taking my morning walk, I saw a most unusual event.... there was a bird chasing a squirrel across the street! The bird was dodging and diving and nipping at the squirrel, and no matter where the squirrel tried to run to, the bird easily and effortlessly kept up and on him... I laughed and then was reminded of the following:

1. Just because you may seem like the 'weaker' one, you can still take on anyone/thing you choose to.
2. Your skills (including the ones you don't acknowledge) give you an unlikely edge over the competition.
3. You can truly do anything you set your mind to. Even intimidate another larger than yourself!

As you grow your business remember these 3 points. They can be pivotal in reaching for your dreams, because your dreams can be as real as you choose them to be.

Keep shining!
Judy

Rainy day do's

It's raining. Again. The word is that we 'need' it, but really.... how water logged do we need to be? All this rain got me thinking. Thinking about how we water our dreams. Water is a way of cleansing, purifying, fertilizing, awakening, refreshing, rejuvenating. It's actually a great time to look at ways to refresh my marketing and offerings.

Here's what I'll look at:

1. How can I add to my networking activities for the season?
2. Is there any way I can be of more value to my clients?
3. What can I add/subtract from my offerings to help my clients succeed?
4. How can I have more fun with my work?
5. Is there a way to nurture my business that I haven't looked at?
6. What new books can I read/programs can I attend to accelerate growth?
7. How can I reach a new audience?
8. Who can I collaborate with to reach additional 'ears'?
9. What kind of passive income stream can I develop to fill a need?
10. What am I doing now that could be better outsourced?

These points will allow me to fine tune, tweak my plan and get ready for the sun to shine again. Ah, I feel better now. Think I'll take a nap, and listen to the rain on the roof.

Keep shining!
Judy