I attended a regional dental meeting with my husband a few weeks ago and made some curious observations I’d like to share with you today.

As a Dental Practice Management Consultant, it is important to me to stay on top of the very latest techniques in my field.  Since I was not speaking at this event, but am very well-versed in the topics offered, I attended a few courses with a different objective than usual; pure observer.  I usually sit in the front, eagerly taking in everything the speaker has to say.  Since I’ve heard it all at this point, I chose to sit in the back, and observe the dentists and their teams, in an attempt to see how I might meet the needs of my audiences in the future.  What a different perspective!

You see, as you might suspect, I’m one of those people who believes that everything and anything is possible.  I believe that failure is to be expected and is merely a stepping stone to greatness.  I live very little of my life in fear, which tends to terrify my mother.  (How ironic is that?)

As I listened to the conversations going on all around me, I discovered that everything I’ve ever learned, and have taught to others myself, about the significance of a positive, can-do attitude, is absolutely TRUE!

Isn’t it funny how you can believe in something, but not really know it until you have the proof displayed right in front of your face?  But I guess that what faith is, isn’t it?  However, seeing evidence, first hand, is really an eye opener.  Let me explain.

I observed two key characteristics among the successful dentists, versus the ones who are struggling.  The first will not surprise you, it was attitude.  The dentists who were saying positive things about their life, their work, their practices, their teams, and just making positive statements in general, appeared to be happy, calm, at peace, enjoying their journey, and successful.  They eagerly shared their earnings, their goals, and interestingly, their tips and what they’ve learned.  Yes, they even talked about the things that they’d tried that didn’t work for them.  Like certain marketing strategies, consulting companies that made big promises but didn’t deliver, but the wording they used to describe these “negative” experiences was upbeat which reflected the general outlook of the person speaking.  For example, instead of saying, “Oh, stay away from that company.  They are bad news!  They took me for x amount of dollars and when I asked for my money back, they disappeared.”  I heard things more along the lines of, “Well, we tried that approach, but it didn’t work for us.  And I think it was probably because . . .”  The person went on to explain more or less that it was no one’s fault, it just didn’t work.  They learned from it, and moved on.

The second significant trait that I noticed among the successful entrepreneurs is that they were willing to invest in themselves and their businesses.  I know a lot of struggling dentists who believe that everything should be handed to them on a silver platter the instant they graduate from dental school.  The successful dentists I know realize that it doesn’t work that way.  You have to continue to educate yourself, upgrade your knowledge beyond what is required, and consistently put a significant amount of your earnings back into your business.  It doesn’t matter how long they’ve been in practice, successful dentists are constantly upgrading their equipment and skills.

The third and most shocking observation I made was that many of the participants where not dentists, but dental team employees who had come to the meeting on their own.  Not only were the not being paid to be there, but they had paid for their entire trip themselves.

I had a client tell me not to long ago that she had purchased my collections system with her own money.  In fact, her dentist even told her that my system would not work.  But she believed it would, bought it herself, put it into practice, and was telling me how much success she had had with it.  To be honest, it really upset me at first.  I felt sorry for this woman at having to spend her own money on something her employer should have gladly purchased for her, and then to find out that he had such a negative attitude.  But it didn’t seem to be bothering her, so I didn’t say anything.  Now I realize that she’s one of those people – like me – and many of you – who believes in doing things for themselves.  I can certainly see how many people would think, “But it was his business she was investing in.”  Yes, but she was also investing in herself.  This woman paid $400 so that she could feel better about herself and have more confidence in herself while at work. (Abraham-Hicks fans, think “downstream.”)  She can now take the knowledge, practical experience, and huge success she had implementing that system and market herself very successfully to other dental practices.  Trust me, she’d be snapped up in no time flat.  Think of the leverage that gives her.  When you invest in yourself, even if it seems like it’s in the best interest of your employer, it will also ultimately benefit you.  Investing in yourself always pays huge dividends.

In summary, here are two essential traits for success:

1. Believe that anything is possible.
2. Be willing to invest in yourself and your business, regardless of whether you are the business owner, or “just” an employee.

I guess I’ve really always had faith that a positive attitude was key to success.  I believed all the motivational speakers when they said this was so.  It certainly seems to have worked for me over the past 40 years.  (Yes – I turned the big 4-0 last Friday, April 11, 2008.)  And although I haven’t been too stingy with money, I haven’t invested as much in myself as I should have over the past three years of developing my business.  That’s going to change, starting today.

My challenge to you for today is to find a way to invest in your future.  Whether it’s going back to school, taking a continuing education course, or attending a success retreat to help you get it all sorted out, make a decision today and commit to it.  You’ll be glad you did.

I’ll be teaching other personal and business success methods I’ve learned in my Conscious Creation Retreat; I hope to see you there!

In the meantime, here are a couple of tools to help you get on the road to success:

Wake Up and Create the Life You Want:  A Guide to Self-Empowerment

Eliminate Clutter and Organize Your Life E-book

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Technorati Tags: Attitude, Conscious Creation, Retreat, Coach, Success, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Law of Attraction

Posted under Dental Practice Management, Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success

You’ve got it all down pat; the goals, the plan, the schedule, the self-improvement, the professional development, and the help you need to pull it all off, (nannies, personal chefs, personal shoppers, etc).  But have you remembered to make room for yourself?  Time to breathe?

“After I get this done, I’ll take a break.”  Oh, but something new comes up.

“If I can just get through tomorrow, I’ll be free and clear for some time off.”  But a new prospect is ready to negotiate.

“I’m going to have fun at this business conference.”  But it ends up being more beneficial, and intense, than you thought.  You come home enthusiastic, but too tired to implement anything.  By the time you’ve rested, you’ve lost that enthusiasm.

You need to take regular, planned, breaks from your work, your family, your goals, and most likely, your life as you’ve created it.  Proper rest and relaxation are as essential to your overall well-being as a good strategic plan.  Just as you get more done with a good plan, you will also accomplish more by taking time off. 

The more rested you are, the brighter, sharper, more alert, and more productive you will be at your work and in every other area of your life. Isn’t your mission worth your highest level of productivity? 

Because my office is in my home, I used to feel guilty about just about everything I did.  When I was cleaning the house, I felt guilty because I wasn’t “working,” and when I was working, it would bother me to see something that needed to be cleaned.  Vicious cycle!

I finally learned that the way I felt – the guilt - was keeping me from realizing my true potential in any of these areas.  If your mind is on something else, you’re not giving what you’re currently doing your full attention, and attention, especially focused attention, is vital to success.

My challenge to you for this weekend is to give yourself one entire day off.  Sit for awhile and do nothing.  Go for a long walk.  Don’t even do house chores, and I strongly recommend no television.  Do something your spirit has been longing for you to do.  Take her for a drive in the country.  And before you make that trip to the mall, think about your last trip to the mall.  Did it energize you?  Or did it leave you feeling even more tired from all the hustle and bustle?  (I’m not judging either way – I want you to think about it and make that decision for yourself.  We all have different experiences, perspectives, and attitudes.)

Do something different. Start a garden.  (Okay – you can watch HGTV to get yourself motivated to start a garden.)  It’s okay to “work” if it’s a sincere hobby.  I say that because I know a lot of people might read “start a garden,” and rightfully think, “that’s a lot of work.”  I know it is.  But for me, it’s joyous work.  More like meditation really.  To my grandmother, the garden was work, especially at the level she did it.  I do about one-tenth of the amount she did.  So it’s all in how you go about it.  To some, doing the laundry might be relaxing.  If it makes you feel better to clean out and organize your house, go for it.  The idea is to take a break from your normal routine and chores.

Be careful, though, not to justify a chore.  Listen to your inner guidance.  If you sense a whisper saying, “clean out the litter box, then take the rest of the afternoon off,” do that.  If you feel a soft voice that seems to say, “go for a drive and get an ice cream cone,” do that.  But don’t let your rational mind say, “Clear your Outlook tasks, and then if there’s time, you can take a break.”  Get it?  Good. Now, go do it.

If you want to get real results and learn the secrets to manifesting your heart’s desires, take a break at my Conscious Creation Retreat.  You’ll get the rest and motivation you need to reinvent yourself, and your life.

In the meantime, here are a couple more tools to inspire you to take that much needed, much deserved break:

Wake Up and Create the Life You Want:  A Guide to Self-Empowerment

Eliminate Clutter and Organize Your Life E-book

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Technorati Tags: Peace, Happiness, Attitude, Conscious Creation, Retreat, Coach, Success, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Law of Attraction

Posted under Inspiration, Motivation, Success

Are you longing for more success in your life?  Do you sometimes wonder why other people get ahead while you seem to be standing still?  Are you doing everything right yet getting nowhere?

There is a secret that high achievers seem to come by naturally that, if you implement it, will serve you just as well as it does them.  Are you ready? Here it is:  Do more.  Go the extra mile.  Find out what others (your customers/clients/boss) want and find a way to exceed their expectations.  Do this consistently and success must follow. 

First, let’s discuss why this is so because it’s a multi-faceted phenomenon. 

1. People who work harder and go that extra mile will in one way, shape, or form make more money.  Whether it’s from overtime or a raise in recognition of a job well-done or moving up the corporate ladder, if you perform extra duties with the right attitude, more cash will come your way.  Now, if that’s the be-all, end-all, of your goals, you might be set, but most people want more.  Okay, read on . . .
    
2. People who work harder often perform more, which often causes them to experience greater setbacks.  Even though it may seem like a slap in the face, overcoming obstacles develops self-esteem.  When you fail miserably and live to tell about it, you learn to take greater risks.  You become unstoppable.  High achievers are persistent.
    
3. People who work harder and focus on results become self-reliant.  After all, there aren’t many employees willing to burn the midnight oil.  An entrepreneurial spirit, (remember, We are All Self-Employed), goes a long way and most high achievers end up working for themselves, by themselves.  Get used to it; it’s worth it.�
    
4. People who work harder and exceed others’ expectations become more influential with everyone around them.  Think about it.  Proving yourself as someone who can be depended upon to deliver is one of the best “favors” you can do for people.�
    
5. People who work harder and go the extra mile develop enthusiasm.  Enthusiasm for life is one of the hallmarks of high achievers.

Now, if you’re sitting there thinking, “Well, all of those qualities are great, but if I had more self-confidence, money, and enthusiasm, I would do more,” you need to realize that high achievement is a cycle – doing more, finding your own methods if necessary, will feed into these other traits, which will then feed back into doing more.  You might have to develop a little faith at first, but if you take a look around and be honest with yourself, you’ll begin to see that what I’m saying is true.  Recall or observe the last three people who were promoted within your circle.  Why were they chosen? 

Act like the person you want to be and you will become that person.

Worried that others will read this article and beat you to it?  Don’t worry.  “It’s never crowded along the extra mile.” –Dr. Wayne Dyer

We’ll be discussing this in greater length at the Conscious Creation Retreat; I hope to see you there!

In the meantime, here are a couple of tools to help you get on the path to becoming a high achiever:

Wake Up and Create the Life You Want:  A Guide to Self-Empowerment

Eliminate Clutter and Organize Your Life E-book

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Technorati Tags: Attitude, Conscious Creation, Retreat, Coach, Success, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Law of Attraction

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success

Has this ever happened to you?

You wake up after a good night’s rest feeling rejuvenated and happy to be alive.  On your way to work you take note of your energy level and think about all the things you’ll do when you get home.

When you arrive home, however, that energy you had at 8 o’clock has been completely drained by your work day.  You start to resent your employer, your supervisor and possibly even your co-workers for taking so much out of you that you have nothing left to give your family, or yourself.

Yeah, I know.  We’ve all been there.

Why is it that some people can have a hard day at work and still come home and mow the lawn, while others barely have the strength to dial the phone and order in dinner?

Well, it’s a matter of attitude.  You have to safeguard your energy and make sure it’s being spent in the most effective way possible, the way you want it to be spent, and the way to control that, is with your attitude.  In the following list I’ll give you several examples of what I mean.

1. Refuse to participate in the drama of it.  If you have one of those workplaces where the crew isn’t happy unless there is something to gossip about, find other places to be when the squabbles are going on.  Seminar participants always challenge me about this, saying, “Debra, are you saying we should put our heads in the sand?”  Yes, that’s exactly what I’m saying.  Think about it.  Wouldn’t you rather have your head in the sand than in someone’s crap?  I would!  And remember that what you think about you bring about.  So if your head is in the sand, you’ll create more sand.  I’d rather have more sand than more crap.  Even better, if you go off by yourself during lunch instead of participating in the who-did-what-to/with-whom ritual, find a nice magazine and just look at the photos.  (That’s pretty much putting your head in the sand, right?)  Use your imagination to think about what your house would like if it were decorated in that style – or whatever.  The creative power of putting your head in the sand will yield you much more favorable results than participating in the drama going on in others’ lives.  Now, I’m not saying to refuse support to your co-workers.  Just make sure it is support with the intent to improve their situation, not help them wallow in it.  I’ve had to learn that some people just like drama and the best thing to do is just let them have it.  It doesn’t mean I have to participate in it.  In my experience, this one technique alone could save 50% of your energy level for when you get home.  But keep reading . . .

2. Take regular breaks.  Depending on your job, ergonomic specialists have come up with specific guidelines as to how often you need to rest from repetitive tasks.  I’ve seen recommendations from 30 seconds every 10 minutes to 1 minute for every 30.  Most businesses are required to allow a 10-minute break for every 5 hours of work performed.  If your employer has certain guidelines for your particular job, make sure you follow them.  I have had employees who refuse to take breaks because they’re trying to make a good impression.  Don’t do that to yourself.  Performing well at your job will make a better impression and it’s easier to do that with the proper rest.  Most importantly, don’t refuse to take your breaks and then blame your employer for it.  If you find that you require more breaks than you’re allowed, learn how to take mental breaks.  Are there certain aspects of your job that are repetitive in nature that could almost do with your eyes closed?  Now, I’m not talking about factory work here – please!  For example, in the summer I can meditate and pull weeds in my garden at the same time.  It’s simple, requires very little brain power, which gives my mind a break.  I love pulling weeds this way and it’s much better for the garden to pull them every day mindlessly than to wait until they’re a problem and become a chore.  Find something like that in your job and utilize it when you can.  Perhaps straightening your desk and getting organized - but more on that in just a moment . . .

3. Learn to relax while you work.  Try this mantra:  “In an easy and relaxed manner, I complete my tasks on time.”  Say it over and over until it becomes ingrained in you.  Do the same thing at home, except you might want to change the mantra to, “In an easy and relaxed manner, I joyfully create whatever I want.”  Going about all of your work in an easy and relaxed manner will reserve vast amounts of energy to use whenever you want. 

4. De-clutter.  Clutter around you creates clutter in your brain and drains your energy before you perform your first task.  Get rid of everything on your desk except for (maybe) three personal items, and the project you’re working on.  Keep all necessary items straight, clean, and . . .

5. Organize.  The time it takes you to get organized will come back to you 10-fold.  Just thinking about the possibilities of what you could do with all of that time can be very energizing.  Take a moment to just think about how you would feel if you were 100% organized.  Isn’t that energizing?  So, what’s stopping you? 

6. Prioritize.  Almost everyone I know has a hundred items or more on their task lists.  Isn’t that wonderful?  We are all so intelligent and capable of doing so much – we are truly blessed.  But take a few moments to consider what’s really important.  There are many factors to consider here and I know you have many people you need to please.  Taking a few minutes to think it through, pray about it, and get perspective will generate a feeling of control, which is always energizing.

7. Strategically plan your days, and your week.  Ideally, I’d also say your months and year, but I’ve learned that if you take care of the week and each workday, you’ll be way ahead of others and probably from where you are right now.  Most of the time, we expect too much out of ourselves in the way of time.  The result is that we become depressed and think it’s useless to organize and prioritize.  Not true.  However, it is useless to organize and prioritize if you’re not going to put those decisions into a strategic plan.  Again, it goes back to that feeling of control of knowing that you accomplished everything you could for today, and there is a plan for getting everything else done, in its proper timing.  Planning is a huge boon to your energy level. 

8. Focus.   If you want to become more energetic, make doing so the focal point of your thoughts.  Take note of what makes you feel energetic.  What really “floats your boat?”  What is the best way to go through your day?  Do you like to tackle things one right after the other so that time seems like it’s standing still?  Or do you require long segments of time to think and ponder things?  We are each unique and have our own way of making the world go ‘round.  It’s important to find yours and focus on it.  Give yourself the attention you deserve, and make your energy level the center of your attention for a while.  Eventually, you’ll develop the habits you need to become that way all of the time.

9. Become enthusiastic.  People who are enthusiastic about their work, both on the job and at home, are rarely tired for no reason.  (If you are genuinely enthusiastic about your work and tired for no reason, you should seek medical advice.)  Don’t get me wrong; of course you’re going to get physically tired at the end of the day.  But we want as many of those “good tired” days as we can get.  That’s how we know we’ve found our path and are connected to our higher self.  You know when you’re supposed to be tired.  And you also know when you’re just “down.”  Find ways to become enthusiastic about your work.  What do you appreciate about your job? 

10. Develop a persona.  Fake it until you make it.  Sometimes, the best way to turn your energy level around is to pretend you’re someone else.  Using your imagination is very energizing.  I’ve written before about how I used to hate grocery shopping until I started pretending to be Giada De Laurentiis while shopping.  Now, don’t get me wrong, I don’t tell people I’m Giada—I just use my imagination to conjure up her energy level for shopping for the “perfect ingredients” for this recipe or that.  Since I often stop for groceries at the end of a work-day, this is especially helpful.  It’s like a mental break, fun exercise, and practicing the art of visualization all rolled into one. 

So, lots of great ideas here, but where does one start?  Well, you start with whichever idea popped out at you.  Which one really excited you?  Don’t start with what you think you should do.  Start with the one that made your eyes light up.  That’s your Spirit talking to you.  That’s what your Spirit needs.  And following your Spirit and the guidance it gives is one of the best ways I’ve found to increase energy.

I’ll be teaching more on all of these subjects and much more at the Conscious Creation Retreat; I hope to see you there!

In the meantime, here are a couple of tools to help you get on the path to greater energy and reduced fatigue:

Wake Up and Create the Life You Want:  A Guide to Self-Empowerment

Eliminate Clutter and Organize Your Life E-book

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Technorati Tags: Energy, Fatigue, Attitude, Conscious Creation, Retreat, Coach, Success, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Law of Attraction

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success

How many things do you do on a regular basis that you “dread” doing?  How many “obligations” do you have?  How many “chores?”  If the answer is “a lot,” then you will benefit greatly by learning how to get in alignment.  (No chiropractor necessary!)

Did you know that natural law requires that your body, mind, and spirit be united in thought, word, and action in order for the process of creation to work?   What kind of life experience do you want to create?  One filled with dreaded chores or one full of happy tasks?  If you will take the time to get in alignment with even your simplest or most dreaded responsibilities, your entire life will flow more smoothly and you’ll experience greater peace and happiness.

I recently had an experience where I turned my entire outlook and day around by getting in alignment with one of my most-dreaded obligations.  Typically, when asked to perform this task, I moan and groan and think about all the things I’d rather be doing than this particular duty.

During my morning Self MEI (Motivation, Education, and Inspiration) time, I decided that since I have to do this, there is no one else who can do this for me, I might as well get in alignment with it and enjoy the day.  (It was an all-day job.)  So I began to focus on all the things I appreciate about the other person involved.  (My mother.)  Like how much she sacrificed for me when I was growing up, all the nice things she continues to do for me, etc.  I began feeling much better.  Then I decided to focus on how lucky I am that I can do this, like, not being tied down by a “regular” job where someone else dictates my schedule, etc.  Before long, and I’m talking about maybe 5 minutes at the most, I was feeling good about my day and ready to get started. 

The result?  A wonderful day with my mother, despite the circumstances.  (Doctor’s appointment.) 

Today my challenge to you is to get in alignment with all those things you say you don’t want to do.  If you’re doing them, there has to be a reason, right?  Otherwise, you wouldn’t do them.  If there is something about your job you don’t like, perhaps you could focus on the positive aspects of your job that you do like.  Sometimes, if it weren’t for those not-so-pleasant chores, we might not appreciate the good stuff.

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

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Technorati Tags: Personal Development Retreat, Conscious Creation, Coach, Success, Quit Smoking, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Organize, Law of Attraction, Dental Practice Management, Consultant, Motivational Book, Self Help

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success, Weight Loss

It’s a normal day.  You get up, get dressed, and go to work.  Someone asks, “How are you?”  You’re not really sure how to answer because it really depends upon everyone else.  You’ll have to wait and see what kind of mood everyone else is in first because you’ve had it happen before – you come in to work in a good mood, but one of your co-workers is not, so your good mood is pointless.  Before long, everyone is having a difficult day.

Sure enough, one of your co-workers is in a bad mood; there’s always somebody!  You would probably be in a good mood all the time if you could live in a cocoon, but it seems like there is always someone who’s experiencing difficulty and that always brings you down.

Why is it that someone’s bad mood outweighs and overrides everyone else’s good mood?  Have you ever noticed that it only takes one?

Well, actually, there’s a little more to it than that and that’s what I want to talk about today. 

We have full creative control of our moods and feelings in every moment, no matter what is going on around or within us.  So, why, then, does it only take one person, one comment, or one “look,” to send us spiraling down the vibrational ladder?

It’s because we’ve learned to look at negativity and feel it.  Deeply.  Take the news for example.  TV reporters are taught to draw emotion out of us and the easiest way to do that is to show something negative.  They want to tug at our heart strings and make us cry.  But it’s not just news reporters.  TV shows, commercials, most advertising, including print media, and even churches use negative imagery to “get a response.”  And we typically react exactly as expected.  How could we not?

So is it any wonder, then, that when we go to work we are inclined to not only share our problems, but to become emotionally involved with the crises of others?  No.  We’ve been conditioned to do just that.  Some have become so conditioned to it that they thrive on the drama of it, to the point that, if there isn’t something going on, they will create a problem just to satisfy that desire for drama.  Have you ever known someone who isn’t happy unless they’re miserable?  Have you ever witnessed someone put someone else in a bad mood just so they could console them?

Well, that’s one way to be a deliberate creator!

Most of you though, especially if you’re reading this, would prefer to create a reality that is truly pleasing and for the highest good of all involved.  So how do we do that?  First, we need to understand what is going on and how we got to be the way we are.   

In our technologically advanced society we’ve become reactors instead of creators.  We react to our computers, televisions, blackberries, games, news, and other people, leaving us with a feeling of very little control over our own lives and wondering what went wrong.  We spend most of our time putting out fires and worrying about those we can’t put out.  But there is an alternative.

In order to become the deliberate, conscious creator you wish to be, it is vital to take time out, I recommend every day, away from all those outside influences and distractions, to think about your ideal life and exactly what it is you want to create.  Turn off the TV and get away from everyone.  You might have to get up early before everyone else in your household, or stay up later, in order to do this, but trust me, it will be worth it. One hour every day would be wonderful, but 15 minutes will do.  What do you do during this time? 

This is not a time of meditation or even prayer, although those are both good practices as well.  What you do during this time is visualize, or write out, your desires.  How do you want to be as you go about your day?  How do you want your day to go?  What would you do if you could do anything you want?  You might want to keep a special journal just for this purpose if you choose to write.  (When I’m on the road traveling I find that my laptop works just as well as a notebook and I don’t have the added bulk.)  Every day, add to the details of your desired reality.  Perhaps you saw something yesterday that you’d like to have – how does it fit into your life?  How would you use it? 

It’s not just on action exercise, either.  If you have trouble determining how you would change a daily activity, decide how you want to feel, and then imagine feeling that way.  You’ll start to notice opportunities to feel exactly how you want to feel.  For example, if you’d like to laugh more, it might occur to you that you could watch re-runs of sitcoms you used to love instead of dramas that cause you to experience negative emotion.  Use your TV for your benefit instead of detriment.

What you are trying to do, and will be successful at it if you give it long enough, is activate a thought process that is in alignment with how you really want your life to go.  If you don’t picture it, or feel it the way you want it, you’ll likely never get it that way.  And the stronger the outside influences, the harder it will be to create what you want “by accident” or default.  So it’s really important to spend deliberate time doing this.

With just a little time, you will begin to see results.  Every time you deliberately focus on your desires, you add power to your thought processes.  The more you do this, the stronger your attraction becomes to the things you want.  Just keep designing your improved version of your life in your mind. Gradually, this new vision of yourself becomes your normal way of thinking.  In other words, it becomes who you think you are – who you believe you are.  And once you start believing that who you want to become is who you really are, (because it is – even right now), everything in your life will begin to change.  You’ll be inspired to new ideas, new ways of doing things, new friends, new associates, new co-workers, and new manifestations of all kinds.

You are who you think you are.  Isn’t it wonderful that to change who we are all we have to do is change the person we think that is!  It is so simple, most people don’t believe it – and there’s the rub!

I have become a Conscious Creation Coach.  I teach people how to create the life of their dreams.  I’d be happy to speak with you by phone or e-mail to see if we would be a good fit and could work together.  My coaching fees are $75 per half-hour.  If you’d like to get a jump-start on creating the life of your dreams, come to my Conscious Creation Retreat.

Until next time,

Live Joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Get Inspired!  Come to the Wake Up and Create the Life You Want Retreat  May 30 - June 1 and learn the techniques for taking control of your life and achieving success, plus get free private coaching!  Click here for details.

What do you want to create? Wake Up and Create the Life You Want: A Guide to Self-Empowerment has helped hundreds of people create the life of their dreams.  You can read their stories here.  If you choose the downloadable version, it comes with my free report on “The Science of Getting Rich.”

***Please Note:  All transactions are processed through PayPal, but you can use Visa, MC, AMEX, or Discover.

Technorati Tags: Personal Development Retreat, Conscious Creation, Coach, Success, Quit Smoking, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Organize, Law of Attraction, Dental Practice Management, Consultant, Motivational Book, Self Help

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Motivation, Success, Weight Loss

One of the biggest obstacles in believing that you can re-create your life is the, “But I have to face reality,” paradigm.  Why is it so difficult to bridge the wide chasm from reaction to creation? 

Mostly it’s because we’re so busy observing our surroundings and looking at things we don’t really want to see.  We watch the news to get the weather, only to be inundated with everything that’s gone wrong around the world today.  But it’s not just the news media, we all do this.  Think about it for a moment.  When something happens at work, if it’s a good thing, how long does everyone focus on it?  Now contrast that to some really good gossip - ?

But here’s the good news.  You can employ your mind’s eye to start focusing on the good things.  My husband used to come home and tell me everything that went wrong that day at his office.  One night, I let him get it all out, and then I said, “Now, tell me three things that went well today.”  He was able to do it with no problem.  Before long, he would come home and still tell me what went wrong, but knowing that I was going to ask for my “three things,” he was prepared and volunteered that, for one example, even though procedures didn’t go as smoothly as he might have liked, he felt his team handled everything very well, they were all well-trained, and that he was thankful for them and their determination to make things right.

These days, he comes home and only brings up the really big challenges, and then brags about how well they all worked together.

It’s a matter of becoming aware of what’s happening, and making the decision to turn things around. 

While it is true that we have to deal with reality, you can use your imagination to re-live any moment.  I’ve blogged about this before, but it has been a while.  When you have a recurring event that’s constantly going wrong in your life, (something that you are calling “reality”),  take some time to replay the incident in your mind the way you wish it had gone.  The next time that event plays out, it should go a little better.  You’ll learn how to further mould the event, replay it in your mind again, and the next time will go even better.  Keep doing this until you have complete control over the situation.  Yes, it is possible.

All day long we are inundated with images.  Utilize your image-ination to create reflections of things you’d like to see.  Your imagination works both ways for you – try it!

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

Get Inspired!  Come to the Wake Up and Create the Life You Want Retreat  May 30 - June 1 and learn the techniques for taking control of your life and achieving success, plus get free private coaching!  Click here for details.

What do you want to create? Wake Up and Create the Life You Want: A Guide to Self-Empowerment has helped hundreds of people create the life of their dreams.  You can read their stories here.  If you choose the downloadable version, it comes with my free report on “The Science of Getting Rich.”

***Please Note:  All transactions are processed through PayPal, but you can use Visa, MC, AMEX, or Discover.

Technorati Tags: Personal Development Retreat, Quit Smoking, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Organize, Success, Law of Attraction, Dental Practice Management, Coach, Consultant, Motivational Book, Self Help

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success, Weight Loss

As a motivational speaker and seminar leader, I am often inundated at the close of an event with questions.  “Should I do this or that?  How should I handle this difficulty?  How do I get out of this?  What decision should I make about . . . ?”

Of course I’m always polite as I am always willing to help others – it is, after all, why I’m here.

Most of the time, my answers come from my own perspective and knowledge.  I mean, if you think about it, how could they not?  I only know what I know, right?  And that is probably the “wisdom” that most people are seeking, so it serves its purpose.

However, there is a way that you can know, from your own perception and good judgment, the answer to most of your questions.  Let me explain.

I went through a time when I had a difficult time making decisions.  Most people, but especially women, have struggled with this at some point in their life and many suffer from it chronically.  We could spend a lot of time debating the cause(s); low self-esteem, paternal issues, past or present controlling relationships – you know the drill.  But this post is about the solution, and you’re going to be amazed at its simplicity.

Several years ago I learned that the best way to control a conversation, even one with yourself, is to answer a question with a question.  For example, a typical sales technique is that when a prospective client asks a question such as, “Do you make any guarantees with your product,” your response should be, “Is that important to you?”

When I am trying to solve a dilemma in my own life, I’ll start asking questions.  (It’s very useful to use a journal for this so that you see your evolution.)

In the end, every situation boils down to this:  What kind of person do I now choose to be?

That’s it.  It doesn’t matter if the choice is major or minor, large or small, simple or complex.  It all comes down to deciding who I want to be from this point forward.

This is one reason I teach determining your values in all of my seminars.  Knowing what you stand for and where you’re going in life eliminates looking to others for “should I do this or that?”  However, life is constantly producing changes and with that come new scenarios previously not considered because they were “off our radar.”

Too often, I hear people use the excuse, “That’s just who I am.”  For some reason I always want to say, “DUH!”  (But I don’t – because that’s not who I want to be!)

Of course, sometimes being who you are is the point – and that’s okay.

My challenge for you today is to begin to hold the question, “Who do I now choose to be?”  I’m betting that if you’re reading this, you’re the type of person who is constantly evolving, becoming more enlightened, and consciously recreating yourself.  If so, answer every question today with that question, “Who do I now choose to be,” and then act accordingly.  Conscious evolution at its best!

Until next time,

Live joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Get Inspired! Come to the Wake Up and Create the Life You Want Retreat May 30 - June 1 and learn the techniques for taking control of your life and achieving success, plus get free private coaching! Click here for details.

What do you want to create? Wake Up and Create the Life You Want: A Guide to Self-Empowerment has helped hundreds of people create the life of their dreams.  You can read their stories here. If you choose the downloadable version, it comes with my free report on “The Science of Getting Rich.”

***Please Note:  All transactions are processed through PayPal, but you can use Visa, MC, AMEX, or Discover.

Technorati Tags: Conscious evolution, Personal Development Retreat, Quit Smoking, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Organize, Success, Law of Attraction, Dental Practice Management, Coach, Consultant, Motivational Book, Self Help

Posted under Dental Practice Management, Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success, Weight Loss

How many times have you said, “I can’t help it, that’s just the way I feel?” 

There’s a basic untruth in that statement.  While it’s fine to feel however you feel about a subject, you most certainly can “help it.”  Let me explain.

I was having a pretty good day yesterday when I received an e-mail from a reader saying that my site doesn’t represent me well professionally. Admittedly, the comment bummed me out for a few minutes.

Remembering, though, that we create our own reality and attract everything in our lives to us, I stopped to reflect on just exactly why I had chosen to attract this.

To be honest, this reader didn’t really tell me anything I didn’t already know.  I’ve been putting off the tasks of redesigning both of my websites for several months now, using the excuse that I have higher priorities.  (I really do prioritize my tasks monthly, weekly, and daily.)

However, considering that this website is my main marketing system, it should take #1 priority.  Ah – the old focusing on the “wrong” thing dilemma!

So I then decided that I was very lucky to have this suspicion confirmed, so that I can begin to focus on this “problem” immediately.  (I’ve already changed a few things.)

Later into the afternoon, I started to feel overwhelmed.  I began my weekly planning with the intention of blocking off enough time to redesign both sites.  Guess what?  Because I plan ahead so extensively, there really isn’t enough time in this week with obligations that have already been made – obligations that I am happy to have made – that I cannot get out of simply by re-prioritizing.

At this point, I began to feel fortunate to have enough business going on to actually be this busy.  I have a to-do list now of routine tasks that will take at least 4 weeks to accomplish and enough goals to keep me busy for the next 10 years – no exaggeration!  (Retreat Center!)

In thinking and re-thinking my priorities for this week, my mind wandered to the comments and compliments I have received about the design of this site, and I realized that it’s not that bad.  It might not be the best-looking site, but it’s not the worst, either.  Okay, maybe it’s just the retreat page – I can work on that this week.  And if I can’t get it the way I want it, I do have the funds to hire someone to make it better for me.  So there – feeling much better now!

Just before writing this article I remembered how much I enjoy designing my website.  I love the creation process even though it becomes frustrating at times.  It’s those accomplishments that remind me that I am capable, imperfect, and always changing.

This entire process reminded me that while our feelings tell us what we’re vibrating and attracting, it is our thoughts that create our feelings.  As my thinking (perspective) changed on this subject throughout the afternoon, so did my feelings.  If I had simply reacted to my circumstances, I probably would have remained in a defensive and self-pity mood all day.  Instead, I chose to appreciate the opportunity to grow.  Where I’d like to get to now is creation: creating my feelings as opposed to just experiencing them. 

I’ve been able to do this before, so I know it is possible.  An exercise in appreciation is taking control of (guiding) and choosing your feelings.  But creating your feelings in the first place, from the moment you get out of bed is another matter, now, isn’t it?

I now understand the Abraham processes of Segment Intending and The Book of Positive Aspects (from Ask and It Is Given) on a much deeper level now.  How wonderful it would be to plan each day, each hour, and moments as necessary, around performing these exercises!  That would have to be creation at its best!

My challenge to you today is to deliberately guide your thoughts so that you are always reaching for joy.  When you experience something that brings you down, instead of letting the situation take control of you, get control of it instead.  Think, “I’ve created this for a reason.  What is it?”  Then be honest with yourself.  It could be nothing more than the universe trying to get you to give your attention to something you’ve indicated you want from it.  Becoming defensive will not get you closer to it, embracing your feelings will.  Live by choice, not by default.

Until next time, my wish is that you–

Live joyfully!  (But only if that’s what you choose!)

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Sign up for Retreat Information

What do you want to create? Wake Up and Create the Life You Want: A Guide to Self-Empowerment has helped hundreds of people create the life of their dreams.  You can read their stories here.  If you choose the downloadable version, it comes with my free report on “The Science of Getting Rich.”

Even better, come to the Wake Up and Create the Life You Want Retreat May 30 - June 1 and learn the techniques for taking control of your life and get free private coaching! 

***Please Note:  All transactions are processed through PayPal, but you can use Visa, MC, AMEX, or Discover.

Technorati Tags: Personal Development Retreat, Quit Smoking, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Organize, Success, Law of Attraction, Dental Practice Management, Coach, Consultant, Motivational Book, Self Help

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success, Weight Loss

If you have a blog or website you can help me help others, and make money for yourself. 

I know that most of you are familiar with affiliate programs.  If not, it simply means that I pay my affiliates a commission for every sale they make on one of my products or services.  In this instance, the only affiliate program I have so far is for my Wake Up and Create the Life You Want Retreat.

The commission rate is 10%, so you would make $39.50 to $54.90 per enrollee, which is much better than Adsense, Amazon, or even similar affiliate programs.  If you haven’t used an affiliate program before, this is your chance; I’d love for you to participate.

If you’re concerned that I am allowing only 20 people into this first retreat, don’t worry.  My intention is to give these retreats on a regular, on-going basis.  My new dream for my 40’s – turning 40 on April 11 of this year – is to build a retreat center.  I’d like to be helping people recreate their lives through this retreat and hosting it about every other week.  The facility would be available also as a bed and breakfast, and for other retreat leaders – like Christine Kane. 

The reason I am letting other bloggers/website owners in on this is simple – I want a larger market.  My seminar has had great success locally and state-wide, but I am ready for an inter/national audience like I have with this blog, and with my coaching services.

For your readers, the advantages of this retreat are many and profound.  I can help people lose weight, quit smoking, make more money, eliminate any unwanted habit, develop good habits, establish a success mindset, direct their thoughts, connect to their higher self, become a deliberate, effective creator, and much more - all while they relax and enjoy peaceful, beautiful surroundings.  (If you’ve ever been to Kentucky in the Spring, you know what I’m talking about!)

I know in my heart that this retreat will be as life-transforming, and probably more so, than my one-day seminars.  People who take that seminar report drastic and positive changes in their mindset, attitude, and connection to spirit.  Most importantly, they leave with enthusiasm for life and a rejuvenated spirit.

The best part is that this is a retreat where you get to work on you – you pick the topic, then relax and learn how to let your spirit guide you to the best possible outcome.  Doesn’t that sound fantastic?  It is – believe me.  I’ve been developing this retreat for over a year now and I am so excited that the next logical step is its manifestation.

Why is a retreat setting so important?  Many documented studies have shown that people learn best when they’re relaxed.  If you can relax, you can learn.  If you can learn, you can consciously change your life.  Change your life, and you’ve just taken control of your future.  If the only difference between those who have what they want and those who don’t is conscious control over their habits and thought patterns, then doesn’t it make sense to take the time to establish that control and channel it in the direction that will serve you best?  However, it is next to impossible to change thought without time and space to do it, and that’s where the retreat comes into play.   

The French Quarter Inn is luxurious and calm, set right on the river, with a Jacuzzi in every room.  All meals are being prepared by the hotel staff and will be very elegant; they are well-known for their fine cuisine.  Each participant will get a form to complete to indicate preferences and special needs prior to the event.  Maysville is rich in history and there will be plenty to capture the participants’ interests.

But I’m getting into retreat details now and those have already been outlined on the retreat page, so go there for a complete listing of amenities.

You can read my story and how all of this got started in the first place here.

Back to this post, if you’d like to become an affiliate, here are the links you will need:

Join my Affiliate Program – Earn 10% on each Registration!

Login to your Affiliate Account

Affiliate Resources and Instructions Page

I hope you will join me in this exciting new endeavor, and I hope to see some of you at the retreat!

Until next time,

Live Joyfully!

You can subscribe to this blog here.

Sign up for Retreat Information

What do you want to create? Wake Up and Create the Life You Want: A Guide to Self-Empowerment has helped hundreds of people create the life of their dreams.  You can read their stories here.  If you choose the downloadable version, it comes with my free report on “The Science of Getting Rich.”

Even better, come to the Wake Up and Create the Life You Want Retreat May 30 - June 1 and learn the techniques for taking control of your life and get free private coaching! 

***Please Note:  All transactions are processed through PayPal, but you can use Visa, MC, AMEX, or Discover.

Technorati Tags: Personal Development Retreat, Quit Smoking, Motivational Speaker, Retreat Leader, Motivation, Organize, Success, Law of Attraction, Dental Practice Management, Coach, Consultant, Motivational Book, Self Help

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Law of Attraction, Leadership, Motivation, Success, Weight Loss