“We are accountable only to ourselves for what happens to us in our lives." ~~Mildred Newman~~
Accountability is a curious thing to me. It’s easy to be accountable when there is an external expectation. If a customer is waiting for something from you, you get it to them, and you get it to them on time. If a client is in need, you help them in any way that you can. You are accountable to your customers and clients, and likely to your family and your friends. But how often do you hold yourself accountable for the things that are important only to you? Do you hold yourself accountable for things that are not perceived as requirements to achieve success? I can write about completing a performance review for yourself or your business, and you can think it’s a great idea, but do you do it? Or, do you plan to? What if you forget? Things like that slip through the cracks all the time. You know it’s a good idea. You believe it can help further your success, but it’s for you, and you alone… and so maybe someday you’ll get to it…
Do you hold yourself accountable for the things you say you’re going to do when nobody really is expecting anything from you… except you?
Here are some ways that I believe will help me hold myself accountable to ME.
1. Engage an accountability partner. I have learned that when I have someone who can help nudge me along the way (who is not my spouse!) when I’m not meeting my own expectations is very helpful. I don’t like to admit failure. I don’t know anyone who does. So, if I create the person who IS expecting something form me, I get it done. I’m not talking about a daily thing, maybe not even a weekly thing, but someone who truly helps you stay accountable for your actions, whether for work or for job search, can be extremely helpful.
2. Become part of an accountability group, or create one. This can be especially useful if you work independently, or are in job search. Put together a group of people who have similar needs or desire similar outcomes, and help each other stay focused and on track. Meet as often as you need to, maybe by phone, likely better in person, and keep your meetings productive. Set guidelines, and make sure that everyone in the group understands its purpose.
3. Write down weekly goals along with daily to-dos that will help you achieve those goals. Set timelines, set deadlines, and stick to them. Maybe you can even share your list with your accountability partner or group. And, practice integrity. Do what you say you’re going to do, and create a consequence for not holding up your end of the bargain. Likewise, reward yourself when you do. Celebrate the small successes along the way. The little stuff adds up!
If you have other ideas, let me know! Accountability really is a curious thing to me. And, I need as much help with holding myself accountable as anyone else out there!
Showing posts with label success. Show all posts
Showing posts with label success. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
On Being Committed
“There's a difference between interest and commitment. When you're interested in doing something, you do it only when it's convenient. When you're committed to something, you accept no excuses; only results." ~~Kenneth Blanchard~~
It takes a lot of will power to be committed. Will power is not something that comes easily to all. It if did, there probably wouldn’t be a name for it… I’ve written many posts about not going it alone. I often talk about the importance of networking and of getting and giving help. Being committed to being committed is a prime example of when your support system can, well, support you! Ask for encouragement. Ask to be held accountable. Ask for help in recognizing when your commitment starts to waiver. Just because it’s YOUR commitment doesn’t mean you have to do it by yourself. Rally your friends, your family, your coach, your colleagues, the twitterverse… Let people know what you’re up to.
Let’s get the world committed to your success.
It takes a lot of will power to be committed. Will power is not something that comes easily to all. It if did, there probably wouldn’t be a name for it… I’ve written many posts about not going it alone. I often talk about the importance of networking and of getting and giving help. Being committed to being committed is a prime example of when your support system can, well, support you! Ask for encouragement. Ask to be held accountable. Ask for help in recognizing when your commitment starts to waiver. Just because it’s YOUR commitment doesn’t mean you have to do it by yourself. Rally your friends, your family, your coach, your colleagues, the twitterverse… Let people know what you’re up to.
Let’s get the world committed to your success.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The Evolution of Success
“It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” ~~Ursula K. LeGuin~~
Success is a moving target. It keeps evolving. As I achieve a goal or reach a destination, I find there is always more that can be achieved and reached. The way I achieve said success, then, needs to evolve as well. My destination keeps changing and therefore so must my path.
I often write about enjoying the journey. So, it seems fitting that today, what would have been my “attitude” day, that I was inspired to write about this. It’s sometimes hard to keep that positive attitude when you feel overwhelmed by change. But, since I strongly believe that it is “mission critical” to stay positive and rise above the stress I work hard to maintain that attitude.
I also strongly believe that change is good. It keeps us moving, helps keep us motivated, and often drives us to be the best we can be. Change keeps me on my toes, keeps me sharp, and enables me to adapt, learn, and grow. While it can be scary, when you trust your instincts, believe in yourself, and do your best, it can also be very empowering.
So, here’s to change! Here’s to the evolution of success! Here’s to enjoying the journey!
I’ve been doing a lot of research on transformation lately. Transformational Leadership, Culture Transformation… so I thought I was going to be clever and coin the phrase “Transformational Success”. Turns out others have already done that… but I am going to adopt the phrase. I look forward to where it will take me, and I look back with pride at how far I’ve come.
I urge you to look at your path. How have you defined success for yourself in the past? Is it still the right definition for you? If it is not, how can you transform the definition to better suit you? And, how can you alter your path? I believe you’ll find the evaluation enlightening, freeing, and exciting!
Note to my readers: I haven’t written in a while. I am contemplating changes to this blog as I contemplate changes in my own journey. I will always write to motivate others. That’s my passion. That being said, if there is anything that you would like to see more of, less of, or not at all, please feel free to let me know. I value your input and thank you for the support over the last few years.
Success is a moving target. It keeps evolving. As I achieve a goal or reach a destination, I find there is always more that can be achieved and reached. The way I achieve said success, then, needs to evolve as well. My destination keeps changing and therefore so must my path.
I often write about enjoying the journey. So, it seems fitting that today, what would have been my “attitude” day, that I was inspired to write about this. It’s sometimes hard to keep that positive attitude when you feel overwhelmed by change. But, since I strongly believe that it is “mission critical” to stay positive and rise above the stress I work hard to maintain that attitude.
I also strongly believe that change is good. It keeps us moving, helps keep us motivated, and often drives us to be the best we can be. Change keeps me on my toes, keeps me sharp, and enables me to adapt, learn, and grow. While it can be scary, when you trust your instincts, believe in yourself, and do your best, it can also be very empowering.
So, here’s to change! Here’s to the evolution of success! Here’s to enjoying the journey!
I’ve been doing a lot of research on transformation lately. Transformational Leadership, Culture Transformation… so I thought I was going to be clever and coin the phrase “Transformational Success”. Turns out others have already done that… but I am going to adopt the phrase. I look forward to where it will take me, and I look back with pride at how far I’ve come.
I urge you to look at your path. How have you defined success for yourself in the past? Is it still the right definition for you? If it is not, how can you transform the definition to better suit you? And, how can you alter your path? I believe you’ll find the evaluation enlightening, freeing, and exciting!
Note to my readers: I haven’t written in a while. I am contemplating changes to this blog as I contemplate changes in my own journey. I will always write to motivate others. That’s my passion. That being said, if there is anything that you would like to see more of, less of, or not at all, please feel free to let me know. I value your input and thank you for the support over the last few years.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Where Priority Meets Focus
“I think in terms of the day's resolutions, not the years'.” ~~Henry Moore~~
It’s not always easy to determine priorities. Sometimes you need to make tough decisions about what you’re NOT going to do. I was part of an interesting conversation recently about planning and focus that centered on people being prepared for the wrong thing or planning for something that never ended up happening. These were being presented as negative; as people wasting time or effort. I agreed to an extent at the time, but then I started to think about when it had happened to me. I’ve certainly had times that I prepared for something diligently that never came to pass. I’ve certainly experienced focusing a lot of energy and effort on what turned out to be less important than other things on which I could have focused. But each of those things helps make up who I am, what I know, and how I go into my next action. While I certainly could have been better served doing something else, I don’t believe that time was wasted. I believe there is a reason for everything even when we don’t know or see what that reason is.
On the other hand, when you make those tough decisions, when you examine your goals carefully and plan specific action steps to achieve those goals, and then focus intently on those action steps, you are certain to succeed. When you can focus on the positive and not allow self-doubt or negativity creep in; when you can focus on the priorities and not let yourself get sidetracked; when you can focus on what you’re doing right now and not on what you need to do later, you’ve got a winning combination.
On what will you choose to focus today?
It’s not always easy to determine priorities. Sometimes you need to make tough decisions about what you’re NOT going to do. I was part of an interesting conversation recently about planning and focus that centered on people being prepared for the wrong thing or planning for something that never ended up happening. These were being presented as negative; as people wasting time or effort. I agreed to an extent at the time, but then I started to think about when it had happened to me. I’ve certainly had times that I prepared for something diligently that never came to pass. I’ve certainly experienced focusing a lot of energy and effort on what turned out to be less important than other things on which I could have focused. But each of those things helps make up who I am, what I know, and how I go into my next action. While I certainly could have been better served doing something else, I don’t believe that time was wasted. I believe there is a reason for everything even when we don’t know or see what that reason is.
On the other hand, when you make those tough decisions, when you examine your goals carefully and plan specific action steps to achieve those goals, and then focus intently on those action steps, you are certain to succeed. When you can focus on the positive and not allow self-doubt or negativity creep in; when you can focus on the priorities and not let yourself get sidetracked; when you can focus on what you’re doing right now and not on what you need to do later, you’ve got a winning combination.
On what will you choose to focus today?
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Focus: Acting As If
“He who finds Fortune on his side should go briskly ahead, for she is wont to favor the bold.” ~~Baltasar Gracian~~
Boldness, I’ve been told recently, is actually a rare trait. I was also told that it typically disguises insecurity. That may be true, but even if it is, does it matter? If being bold helps you succeed, then I say, fake it ‘til you make it if you must. If to find your fortune you must focus your thoughts and efforts on “acting as if”, then do so. If you need to perform a little more like a confident, successful business person, then I think that’s great. Practice makes perfect. Isn’t that what we tell our kids? Perform away… nobody knows but you that you’re out of your comfort zone.
“There is no strong performance without a little fanaticism in the performer.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Boldness, I’ve been told recently, is actually a rare trait. I was also told that it typically disguises insecurity. That may be true, but even if it is, does it matter? If being bold helps you succeed, then I say, fake it ‘til you make it if you must. If to find your fortune you must focus your thoughts and efforts on “acting as if”, then do so. If you need to perform a little more like a confident, successful business person, then I think that’s great. Practice makes perfect. Isn’t that what we tell our kids? Perform away… nobody knows but you that you’re out of your comfort zone.
“There is no strong performance without a little fanaticism in the performer.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Goals: Maybe you should dread success
“I dread success. To have succeeded is to have finished one's business on earth, like the male spider, who is killed by the female the moment he has succeeded in his courtship. I like a state of continual becoming with a goal in front and not behind” ~~George Bernard Shaw~~
Things that make you go, “hmmmmm”…. I don’t think I’d say I dread success, but I certainly agree that success is not the end, and in fact, only the beginning of the rest of the journey. Goals get adjusted. Sights get set even higher. Dreams get dreamier. The more you achieve the more you know you can achieve. It’s a fantastic adventure and one that doesn’t end until, well, until you end. And, since I’m definitely NOT a male spider, I’m continuing my path to success… however I define that today.
Things that make you go, “hmmmmm”…. I don’t think I’d say I dread success, but I certainly agree that success is not the end, and in fact, only the beginning of the rest of the journey. Goals get adjusted. Sights get set even higher. Dreams get dreamier. The more you achieve the more you know you can achieve. It’s a fantastic adventure and one that doesn’t end until, well, until you end. And, since I’m definitely NOT a male spider, I’m continuing my path to success… however I define that today.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Preparation
“The only thing that makes life possible is permanent, intolerable uncertainty; not knowing what comes next.” ~Ursula K. LeGuin ~~
As important a role preparation plays along the path to success, and as much as it is not only useful, but sometimes imperative to survival, it is not possible to be physically prepared for everything. Life happens. And you need to be able to roll with it.
I’ve been asking myself lately how to deal with that, and how that fits in to my premise… Is it true that you need to be prepared to be unprepared sometimes? Or, can it be that you need to be mentally prepared to handle whatever comes your way? Maybe “being prepared for anything” is more about preparing your mind and choosing your attitude than making your lists and checking them twice… Now, I’m not suggesting that lists are not important. And, I’m not suggesting that you don’t need to study before the exam… but maybe, just maybe there’s more to it than that.
I’ve written a lot about preparation through planning, and through clearing clutter and removing physical distractions. I’ve written about “to do” lists, and daily, weekly and monthly roadmaps. I’ve suggested getting mentally prepared through meditation and getting a good night’s sleep... and I still believe all that to be necessary and real. But I am now also exploring the possibility that preparation goes way beyond those things. Being prepared to handle whatever comes your way, being able to navigate through uncertainty and hardship takes a lot more. And it may be even more important. It takes confidence and a strong sense of self. It takes learning from our past and applying what we’ve learned to new situations. It takes adaptability and flexibility. It takes friends and family helping you through. It takes a coach or an advisor acting as a sounding board. It takes a village.
So today, prepare to be successful. Build your network, build your support system, and take charge of building your self-esteem. Believe you can, and you will, no matter what happens next.
“Uncertainty will always be part of the taking charge process.” ~~Harold S. Geneen
As important a role preparation plays along the path to success, and as much as it is not only useful, but sometimes imperative to survival, it is not possible to be physically prepared for everything. Life happens. And you need to be able to roll with it.
I’ve been asking myself lately how to deal with that, and how that fits in to my premise… Is it true that you need to be prepared to be unprepared sometimes? Or, can it be that you need to be mentally prepared to handle whatever comes your way? Maybe “being prepared for anything” is more about preparing your mind and choosing your attitude than making your lists and checking them twice… Now, I’m not suggesting that lists are not important. And, I’m not suggesting that you don’t need to study before the exam… but maybe, just maybe there’s more to it than that.
I’ve written a lot about preparation through planning, and through clearing clutter and removing physical distractions. I’ve written about “to do” lists, and daily, weekly and monthly roadmaps. I’ve suggested getting mentally prepared through meditation and getting a good night’s sleep... and I still believe all that to be necessary and real. But I am now also exploring the possibility that preparation goes way beyond those things. Being prepared to handle whatever comes your way, being able to navigate through uncertainty and hardship takes a lot more. And it may be even more important. It takes confidence and a strong sense of self. It takes learning from our past and applying what we’ve learned to new situations. It takes adaptability and flexibility. It takes friends and family helping you through. It takes a coach or an advisor acting as a sounding board. It takes a village.
So today, prepare to be successful. Build your network, build your support system, and take charge of building your self-esteem. Believe you can, and you will, no matter what happens next.
“Uncertainty will always be part of the taking charge process.” ~~Harold S. Geneen
Monday, January 3, 2011
Preparation
“Success will never be a big step in the future, success is a small step taken just now.” ~Jonatan Mårtensson~
It’s the first “work day” of 2011 I took the last few weeks “off”, literally. I took advantage of the down time and prepared myself mentally for the year that lies ahead. I feel as if I am ready for anything. I relieved myself of disappointment from unfulfilled expectations. I absolved myself from leftover guilt caused by not always doing what I said I was going to do. I meditated. I relaxed. I spent a lot of time thinking about what this year will bring. I believe this is going to be an amazing year…one filled with things by which to be amazed. It’s not just me… friends of mine have stated they also believe that this will be a year of great change. And, I for one, am very excited about that change. I’m not yet sure what it will look like; I do not even pretend to predict the future… but I have a plan.
I spent a lot of time physically preparing as well. I stretched a lot. I rested a lot. I laughed a lot. I also feel as if my physical space (my home office) is almost perfect. All I need now is a fresh coat of paint on the walls, and I am good to go. I love that my space is 100% conducive to accomplishment. It’s a “power” office complete with a desk fit for the CEO, a white board filled with roadmaps to success, a fountain, scented reed diffusers, “tokens of gratitude”, inspirational artwork made by my son, and of course, quotes everywhere to help me stay on track. There is a door I can close when I need to really focus, and speakers to play whatever music suits the mood. (Thanks Pandora!)
I am ready. And, I am excited by the possibilities. If you’re not feeling prepared for 2011, there’s still time! It’s never too late to take action!
“I do not believe in a fate that falls on men however they act; but I do believe in a fate that falls on man unless they act.” ~G.K. Chesterton~
Happy New Year! I wish you all great things in 2011 and beyond!
It’s the first “work day” of 2011 I took the last few weeks “off”, literally. I took advantage of the down time and prepared myself mentally for the year that lies ahead. I feel as if I am ready for anything. I relieved myself of disappointment from unfulfilled expectations. I absolved myself from leftover guilt caused by not always doing what I said I was going to do. I meditated. I relaxed. I spent a lot of time thinking about what this year will bring. I believe this is going to be an amazing year…one filled with things by which to be amazed. It’s not just me… friends of mine have stated they also believe that this will be a year of great change. And, I for one, am very excited about that change. I’m not yet sure what it will look like; I do not even pretend to predict the future… but I have a plan.
I spent a lot of time physically preparing as well. I stretched a lot. I rested a lot. I laughed a lot. I also feel as if my physical space (my home office) is almost perfect. All I need now is a fresh coat of paint on the walls, and I am good to go. I love that my space is 100% conducive to accomplishment. It’s a “power” office complete with a desk fit for the CEO, a white board filled with roadmaps to success, a fountain, scented reed diffusers, “tokens of gratitude”, inspirational artwork made by my son, and of course, quotes everywhere to help me stay on track. There is a door I can close when I need to really focus, and speakers to play whatever music suits the mood. (Thanks Pandora!)
I am ready. And, I am excited by the possibilities. If you’re not feeling prepared for 2011, there’s still time! It’s never too late to take action!
“I do not believe in a fate that falls on men however they act; but I do believe in a fate that falls on man unless they act.” ~G.K. Chesterton~
Happy New Year! I wish you all great things in 2011 and beyond!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Attitude and an Affirmation
“The only disability in life is a bad attitude.” ~~Scott Hamilton~~
I may have used this quote before, but think it’s so relevant to my “back to basics” concept from Monday. It really is all in how you look at things, and all in how you choose to react to your circumstances. I talk about this often. I remind myself frequently that it really is up to me how I react to things and it really is up to me to choose to be positive and optimistic. I tell myself (and anyone else who will listen) that staying upbeat, smiling, being kind and helping others really are the best ways to achieve success and happiness. And sometimes I forget. I won’t get a good night’s sleep, or I have a particularly crazy day, or my 4 year old acts like, well, like he’s 4, or…or…or…. And I forget. So, back to basics! Today I remember that I have the ability and the power and the desire to choose a positive attitude. My affirmation today: I choose to be happy, spread joy and exude confidence. I have a great mental attitude.
So, happy Wednesday everyone! Let’s make the most of it!
I may have used this quote before, but think it’s so relevant to my “back to basics” concept from Monday. It really is all in how you look at things, and all in how you choose to react to your circumstances. I talk about this often. I remind myself frequently that it really is up to me how I react to things and it really is up to me to choose to be positive and optimistic. I tell myself (and anyone else who will listen) that staying upbeat, smiling, being kind and helping others really are the best ways to achieve success and happiness. And sometimes I forget. I won’t get a good night’s sleep, or I have a particularly crazy day, or my 4 year old acts like, well, like he’s 4, or…or…or…. And I forget. So, back to basics! Today I remember that I have the ability and the power and the desire to choose a positive attitude. My affirmation today: I choose to be happy, spread joy and exude confidence. I have a great mental attitude.
So, happy Wednesday everyone! Let’s make the most of it!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Attitude
“Reach for the stars, even if you have to stand on a cactus.” ~~Susan Longacre~~
Sometimes you have to give a little to get a lot. Sometimes you don’t know what good will come out of things and you just need to take a leap of faith. Sometimes the path to success is a little rocky and doesn’t look like the path to success at all. It would be nice to have a yellow brick road paved for us, or that line to follow in the financial services TV ads, but that’s just not reality. So, make your own road, trust your instincts, follow the signs, and believe that you will get there; wherever “there” is for you!
Sometimes you have to give a little to get a lot. Sometimes you don’t know what good will come out of things and you just need to take a leap of faith. Sometimes the path to success is a little rocky and doesn’t look like the path to success at all. It would be nice to have a yellow brick road paved for us, or that line to follow in the financial services TV ads, but that’s just not reality. So, make your own road, trust your instincts, follow the signs, and believe that you will get there; wherever “there” is for you!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Preparation
“Success will never be a big step in the future. Success is a small step taken just now.” ~~Jonatan Mårtensson~~
We may never be really prepared to take that step. But if we wait until we’re ready, we may miss the opportunity. Some things we just have to do. Some things we just have to jump into. And, what we find along the way, even though we weren’t “ready” may be even better than what we were actually waiting for! It’s sort of like a good game of “hide and seek”. We plan, we seek out the best hiding spot, we crouch down and prepare to be as still as possible for the long haul, and then we hear, “ready or not, here I come!” and we hold our breath waiting to see what will happen. But think about it. How would you really feel if all that planning worked, and you missed out on all the fun because you were still hidden? Getting found is half the joy, even though you planned and prepared for the exact opposite.
Now, I’m not suggesting that preparation isn’t necessary; quite the contrary. Preparing for the small steps is critical. Mental preparation, physical preparation, and careful planning will help you know which small steps to take and feel really good about taking them. Just don’t let yourself get so caught up in the planning and preparing that you forget to actually “do.”
We may never be really prepared to take that step. But if we wait until we’re ready, we may miss the opportunity. Some things we just have to do. Some things we just have to jump into. And, what we find along the way, even though we weren’t “ready” may be even better than what we were actually waiting for! It’s sort of like a good game of “hide and seek”. We plan, we seek out the best hiding spot, we crouch down and prepare to be as still as possible for the long haul, and then we hear, “ready or not, here I come!” and we hold our breath waiting to see what will happen. But think about it. How would you really feel if all that planning worked, and you missed out on all the fun because you were still hidden? Getting found is half the joy, even though you planned and prepared for the exact opposite.
Now, I’m not suggesting that preparation isn’t necessary; quite the contrary. Preparing for the small steps is critical. Mental preparation, physical preparation, and careful planning will help you know which small steps to take and feel really good about taking them. Just don’t let yourself get so caught up in the planning and preparing that you forget to actually “do.”
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Attitude
“Positive attitude without positive action equals positively nothing.” ~~Brad Sugars at the Business Is Booming Event last night~~
Thanks to the invite from Action Coach, Tom Maier I had the privilege of participating in Brad Sugars’ Business Is Booming event in Bridgeport, CT last night. What a success! Not only was it a fantastic networking opportunity, but I took home pages of notes on ways I can help make my business, and my life, more of what I want them to be!
In addition to the quote above, which I found very powerful, there are some tips I’d like to share, that I feel apply to life, not just business.
1. GRATITUDE is so important! SHOWING GRATITUDE is even more important. Who can you thank today? HOW can you thank them?
2. DREAMS are critical to success. You have to have a dream, and you have to write it down. You don’t have to know how achieve the dream. If you knew how to get there, or knew how to do it, it would be a TO DO.
3. PLAN! A sad, but all-too-true fact: Most people spend more time planning their wedding than they do their life. (or their job search, or their career track…)
4. You have to BE more and DO more to HAVE more.
5. It’s all about RELATIONSHIPS!
As I process all my thoughts, I may have more to write on these topics… but in the meantime, for more information about Brad Sugars and Action Coach, please visit http://www.actioncoach.com/ and http://bradsugars.com/.
Thanks to the invite from Action Coach, Tom Maier I had the privilege of participating in Brad Sugars’ Business Is Booming event in Bridgeport, CT last night. What a success! Not only was it a fantastic networking opportunity, but I took home pages of notes on ways I can help make my business, and my life, more of what I want them to be!
In addition to the quote above, which I found very powerful, there are some tips I’d like to share, that I feel apply to life, not just business.
1. GRATITUDE is so important! SHOWING GRATITUDE is even more important. Who can you thank today? HOW can you thank them?
2. DREAMS are critical to success. You have to have a dream, and you have to write it down. You don’t have to know how achieve the dream. If you knew how to get there, or knew how to do it, it would be a TO DO.
3. PLAN! A sad, but all-too-true fact: Most people spend more time planning their wedding than they do their life. (or their job search, or their career track…)
4. You have to BE more and DO more to HAVE more.
5. It’s all about RELATIONSHIPS!
As I process all my thoughts, I may have more to write on these topics… but in the meantime, for more information about Brad Sugars and Action Coach, please visit http://www.actioncoach.com/ and http://bradsugars.com/.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Preparation
“Plans are only good intentions unless they immediately degenerate into hard work.” ~~Peter F. Drucker~~
I am once again amazed (not surprised, just amazed) by the power of the affirmation and the drive that I have when I am mentally prepared for greatness. Preparation for a great day, a great week, and in conjunction, great success comes from within, and help to realize that power within does exist!
Committed to taking advantage of the enthusiasm I gained after networking with an Action Coach late last week, and once again re-energized beyond my norm, I feel ready to conquer even the largest obstacle (my own tendency towards procrastination!) and know that I will be successful! The power of networking, be it with one colleague or a whole accountability group, really helps me mentally prepare for the greatness I know I can achieve.
Planning for this week actually started last Friday. Over the weekend, instead of stressing about what I still hadn’t done, I wrote down things on my “to do” list as they entered my mind. Last night, I organized my desk a bit, downloaded my email from the weekend and deleted the junk, and prioritized my to do list for today. I went to bed last night repeating to myself, “I am healthy, well-rested, energized and focused. I stay on track and successfully accomplish my tasks.”
As I said, I am again amazed by the power of affirmation… My allergies, which were really starting to get the best of me, seem to have cleared quite a bit, and I have gotten more done already this morning than I expected.
I am jazzed, and I love this feeling! So, THANK YOU to my network, my readers, my family, and specifically, my friend and Action Coach. I’ve always said that every great player needs a coach, and I’m so happy that at least in this instance, I took my own advice!
“Happy people plan actions, they don't plan results.” ~Dennis Wholey
I am once again amazed (not surprised, just amazed) by the power of the affirmation and the drive that I have when I am mentally prepared for greatness. Preparation for a great day, a great week, and in conjunction, great success comes from within, and help to realize that power within does exist!
Committed to taking advantage of the enthusiasm I gained after networking with an Action Coach late last week, and once again re-energized beyond my norm, I feel ready to conquer even the largest obstacle (my own tendency towards procrastination!) and know that I will be successful! The power of networking, be it with one colleague or a whole accountability group, really helps me mentally prepare for the greatness I know I can achieve.
Planning for this week actually started last Friday. Over the weekend, instead of stressing about what I still hadn’t done, I wrote down things on my “to do” list as they entered my mind. Last night, I organized my desk a bit, downloaded my email from the weekend and deleted the junk, and prioritized my to do list for today. I went to bed last night repeating to myself, “I am healthy, well-rested, energized and focused. I stay on track and successfully accomplish my tasks.”
As I said, I am again amazed by the power of affirmation… My allergies, which were really starting to get the best of me, seem to have cleared quite a bit, and I have gotten more done already this morning than I expected.
I am jazzed, and I love this feeling! So, THANK YOU to my network, my readers, my family, and specifically, my friend and Action Coach. I’ve always said that every great player needs a coach, and I’m so happy that at least in this instance, I took my own advice!
“Happy people plan actions, they don't plan results.” ~Dennis Wholey
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Goals
“It is never too late to be who you might have been.” ~~George Eliot~~
I have decided to work towards a new goal. Well, not entirely new. And, while I am certainly not changing my long term personal goals, or my business goals (at least not today), I am focusing on something different. I’m trying a new tactic, I guess. My “new” goal is to do and be my best. Simple, right? If I do my best all the time how can I not accomplish my other goals? If I am my best all the time, how can I not achieve success? I’ve struggled with this in the past because I felt like I had to define “my best”, but I came to the realization today that “my best” isn’t a constant. I’m evolving; learning more every day about who I am and what “my best” is. So, as of today, I am committed to “my best” and look forward to becoming who I am.
I have decided to work towards a new goal. Well, not entirely new. And, while I am certainly not changing my long term personal goals, or my business goals (at least not today), I am focusing on something different. I’m trying a new tactic, I guess. My “new” goal is to do and be my best. Simple, right? If I do my best all the time how can I not accomplish my other goals? If I am my best all the time, how can I not achieve success? I’ve struggled with this in the past because I felt like I had to define “my best”, but I came to the realization today that “my best” isn’t a constant. I’m evolving; learning more every day about who I am and what “my best” is. So, as of today, I am committed to “my best” and look forward to becoming who I am.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Preparation
“You don't become a winner by mistake.” ~~Joe Atkins~~
…wondering if today’s topic should really be “Practice” instead of “Preparation”; or maybe it should be called “Do Your Homework”…
Success, albeit certainly assisted by luck, takes work. And, it takes commitment. It also takes time, energy, drive and focus. And, no, you’re not expected to do it all by yourself. Every great player has a coach. Who is yours?
…wondering if today’s topic should really be “Practice” instead of “Preparation”; or maybe it should be called “Do Your Homework”…
Success, albeit certainly assisted by luck, takes work. And, it takes commitment. It also takes time, energy, drive and focus. And, no, you’re not expected to do it all by yourself. Every great player has a coach. Who is yours?
Friday, May 14, 2010
Motivation
“There is no success but your own success.” ~~Terri Guillemets~~
Don’t let others define for you the things that will make you feel successful. Only you can do that. There is no real definition of success, as success is what you make of it.
Here’s another quote for you: “Success is getting what you want; happiness is wanting what you get.” ~~Author Unknown~~
So, are you successful, happy, or both?
And one I think I’ve used before, but bears repeating: “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome. ~~Booker T. Washington~~
So, keep overcoming those obstacles… YOU CAN!
Don’t let others define for you the things that will make you feel successful. Only you can do that. There is no real definition of success, as success is what you make of it.
Here’s another quote for you: “Success is getting what you want; happiness is wanting what you get.” ~~Author Unknown~~
So, are you successful, happy, or both?
And one I think I’ve used before, but bears repeating: “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome. ~~Booker T. Washington~~
So, keep overcoming those obstacles… YOU CAN!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Motivation
“Promise yourself to live your life as a revolution and not just a process of evolution.” ~~Anthony J. D'Angelo~~
Revolution: a sudden, complete or marked change in something. Evolution is much more gradual. While I do think success often comes in small doses and builds gradually, I also believe in sudden changes that boost instant wins! Today I am reminded to look for instant wins! I will make significant strides on the days that I can, so on the days that I do not, it’s not such a problem. Today my revolution begins!
Revolution: a sudden, complete or marked change in something. Evolution is much more gradual. While I do think success often comes in small doses and builds gradually, I also believe in sudden changes that boost instant wins! Today I am reminded to look for instant wins! I will make significant strides on the days that I can, so on the days that I do not, it’s not such a problem. Today my revolution begins!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Tuesday: Focus + Affirmation
"Talent without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There's plenty of movement, but you never know if it's going to be forward, backwards, or sideways." ~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Self-discipline, focus, and clear direction are critical to success. Minimizing distractions and staying on the track let you know that you’re going forward.
My affirmation for today: I drive my success and move forward, closer and closer to my goals.
Self-discipline, focus, and clear direction are critical to success. Minimizing distractions and staying on the track let you know that you’re going forward.
My affirmation for today: I drive my success and move forward, closer and closer to my goals.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Friday: Motivation
“A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him or her.” ~David Brinkley
Have you heard the expression “when it rains, it pours”? Well, it came from somewhere! I’m not sure the actual origin, but I have to tell you there is truth in it! I continue to hear, “I haven’t had an interview in months and next week I have four!” Or, “I’ve been out of work for a year with little activity, and all of a sudden there are 6 positions I’m working on!” Or even,”I hadn’t found anyone worth dating in months, and now I’ve got people crawling out of the woodwork!” And, just in the last two days, I myself have gotten 3 new job orders! You have to be able to roll with the punches, ramp up quickly, and take what comes with grace. Sometimes, as we know, what comes is not what we want. Other times, what comes is more than we ever anticipated. Are you ready to take what comes?
Today, I wish you all the success you can handle! Happy Friday!
“Put your future in good hands - your own.” ~Author Unknown
Have you heard the expression “when it rains, it pours”? Well, it came from somewhere! I’m not sure the actual origin, but I have to tell you there is truth in it! I continue to hear, “I haven’t had an interview in months and next week I have four!” Or, “I’ve been out of work for a year with little activity, and all of a sudden there are 6 positions I’m working on!” Or even,”I hadn’t found anyone worth dating in months, and now I’ve got people crawling out of the woodwork!” And, just in the last two days, I myself have gotten 3 new job orders! You have to be able to roll with the punches, ramp up quickly, and take what comes with grace. Sometimes, as we know, what comes is not what we want. Other times, what comes is more than we ever anticipated. Are you ready to take what comes?
Today, I wish you all the success you can handle! Happy Friday!
“Put your future in good hands - your own.” ~Author Unknown
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Wednesday: Positive Attitude
“Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude.” ~Ralph Marston
I was watching an old episode of Battlestar Gallactica last night and heard a great quote form Apollo regarding Starbuck flying “with attitude”, and it got me thinking…. success is really an attitude. It’s all in how you define it. Is success about money? About happiness? About fame? About infamy? It really depends. Maybe it’s a little bit of all of that. But, the reality is that success is what you think it is. It’s what you believe it to be. So, today, I choose to be successful. How about you?
I was watching an old episode of Battlestar Gallactica last night and heard a great quote form Apollo regarding Starbuck flying “with attitude”, and it got me thinking…. success is really an attitude. It’s all in how you define it. Is success about money? About happiness? About fame? About infamy? It really depends. Maybe it’s a little bit of all of that. But, the reality is that success is what you think it is. It’s what you believe it to be. So, today, I choose to be successful. How about you?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
