Fresh Ideas are targeted tips that you can apply to either single task or a long term goal. Try one and see how a new way of approaching a situation can change your perspective…and your outcome!

Winter 2009
Drafting your plan…that's a great idea. Carrying out your plan…now you're really talking!

If you're a business owner ready to reach the next level, the following programs could be your formula for success in 2009. Consider one, or both!

• Create a concrete plan for your business growth in our two-part Biz Plan Timesaver Intensive, January 19 and 26. Write your plan in two short days! Sign up by January 12 and save $50.
• Find accountability and support in Success for You, a weekly accountability program for business owners executing selected projects. Begins February 2. Sign up by January 16th and save $75.

Read the Winter 2009 issue»

Fall 2008
Ask any baseball player - covering all the bases is impossible. That's true for business professionals, too. Setting and sticking with priorities will yield better results than trying to engage in every possibility.

For example, instead of fluttering among four or five networking meetings every month, devote your time and energy to one or two groups. In my case, I now receive more referrals by dedicating myself to two networking groups than I did from all four I used to visit monthly. Prioritization really pays off!  Read the Fall 2008 issue»

Summer 2008
"Tell me about yourself" is a popular conversation starter at networking mixers and job interviews. A good way to respond is by offering an interesting personal tidbit that relates to your business or professional expertise.

For example, if you share that you've been on 50 cruises, you've opened the door to a conversation about your experience as a travel agent. Your response is like bait on a fishing hook. Cast out your line and see if your conversation partner shows interest before you offer more.  Read the Summer 2008 issue»

Spring 2008
When you're networking, a quality business card demonstrates that you're a true professional. A great resource for short-term business cards is VistaPrint (www.vistaprint.com). The web site offers hundreds of designs, which you can search by industry or visual style, at affordable prices. You can even upload your own design for a customized look.

Once on the site, just select your design and add your contact information. For a strong impact, treat yourself to the heaviest weight paper stock and pay a bit extra to have the cards printed without VistaPrint's logo on the back. Your new business cards will leave a lasting impression with potential contacts and clients to put you head and shoulders above the pack.  Read the Spring 2008 issue»

Winter 2008
Instead of listing your New Year's resolutions, write affirmations that assume a positive outcome. For example, if you want to reduce debt, write "I am in excellent financial shape," or "An abundance of resources meets my needs." If your goal is to find a new job, write "The right opportunity is coming to me," or "I will have many job opportunities to consider."

Read invigorating, positive statements like these daily and watch your motivation grow!  Read the Winter 2008 issue»

This Fresh Idea was inspired by Stephanie Shelburne, PhD(c), CMT of Bod*ecology.
Visit Stephanie's website at www.bodecology.com.

Fall 2007
Taking a moment to picture what you want will set transformational wheels in motion. When you have a clear vision of your goal, it propels you towards achieving it. Even if the initial image is fuzzy, turn off your internal editor and ask yourself questions to bring the picture into focus. For example, if you desire more fulfilling work, what skills would you most like to use? What type of issues would you like to deal with as part of your job? As you take small steps towards your vision, watch amazing things happen as the world offers support to solidify your goal.  Read the Fall 2007 issue»

Summer 2007
Unexpected benefits can be yours before you reach your goal by simply acting "as if" you've already arrived. Imagine how you'll look, move, speak and feel when the process is completed. What has changed about you? What is the same?

Now, act as if you were the person in your new picture. Try out this change in perspective for just one day and notice the surprising opportunities and alliances that come your way.  Read the Summer 2007 issue»

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