What is your WHY?

August 28th, 2010

Most of the time when you meet someone new, the question is posed, “What do you do?”

In order to be more effective and to have greater impact, more and more people are realizing that it’s equally, if not more, important to ask WHY you do what you do?

In my case, why do I write and speak? Or, why does a teacher teach? Why does a singer sing? Why become a parent, an entrepreneur, a college professor or a preacher?

When you understand your “why” – not the reasons society says what you do has value (to become rich, famous or revered) – you can become better at doing what you do and serving others in the process. Even if you are a person who is guided by your faith, it’s important to understand WHY you value your relationship with God and how nurturing that relationship can strengthen every other area of your life and purpose.

Here’s an inspiring video of Simon Sinek, a man who literally wrote the book on why understanding what makes you tick is vital to becoming not only successful, but also significant.

Click Here to View: Simon Sinek’s Why Great Leaders Inspire Action

Examine Your Leadership Style

August 27th, 2010

What’s your leadership style?

Whether you’re guiding a mom’s group, church ministry, small business or corporate division, HOW you do WHAT you do, determines the quality of your results and whether you’ve developed a team committed to long-term success.

Figure out how to focus your team’s experience, knowledge and energy and your productivity will soar.

Keep Moving Forward

August 27th, 2010

Hope your Friday is off to a great start!

“A bend in the road is not the end of the road…unless you fail to make the turn.” ~ Author Unknown

Pretty Wings

August 26th, 2010

Are you the same person you were five, 10, 15 or 20 years ago? Have you stayed the exact same, or challenged yourself to grow?

Some people view change as a bad thing, because it sometimes makes you a different person. But why not keep your innate integrity and heart, while stretching yourself to be better? While it’s wonderful to be a content caterpillar, the butterfly wings you receive with growth and transformation allow you to soar through life on a whole new level.

Challenge yourself. Write a mission statement for your life and your dreams. Take baby steps toward those goals and pretty soon, you’ll see your wings developing. Before you know it, you’ll be flying.

That doesn’t mean you should forget your caterpillar journey. Take that part of your life with you, to make you a better butterfly. Then give hope to others who are on their way, too.

Talk with A Publishing Industry Expert

August 25th, 2010

If you’re a writer ready to be published, consider joining me for an author coaching session tomorrow night with agent extraordinaire Chip MacGregor. He’ll be answering the questions he receives most often from writers seeking agents and publishers, sharing publishing industry news, and taking your questions. Register now, at “http://www.AuthorInYou.com”>www.AuthorInYou.com.

Must-See TV for Parents of Teens and Tweens

August 23rd, 2010

Here’s my latest “Life Notes” parenting column. This one is for parents of preteens and teens.

Yes, I’ve watched this show with my daughter, and we’ve taken time to discuss it afterward. It’s a great way to understand some of the very grown-up issues our kids are facing.

Click Here to Read: http://tinyurl.com/294wl8q

Giving and Receiving Hope

August 23rd, 2010

Who will you speak life into this week, and with whom will you share your goals? Allow yourself to be an encourager and hope giver for others, and surround yourself with believers in your vision. Not blind supporters, but those who will help you get there the right way, and in the right time.

“My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.” ~ Henry Ford