Let's piece the clues together:
I'm closing the doors to something at the end of February (or sooner).
I've gotten very clear on who I want to help and where I want my business to go.
I'm not just addressing the Direct Sales industry.
I'm focusing on working with Christian business women.
I'm giving something away for free.
I'm also creating something even better.
I'm doing it in a BIG way.
There's going to be some VIDEO involved.
And I keep mentioning my "Build a Better Customer" Program
Can you stand it any longer? Okay, here's the BIG news:
Say goodbye to Home Party Solution as you know it. That ship has sailed.
Or it will come the end of February (or when all the current copies are sold out).
Yep. I told you people would think I'm nuts.
More on that in a minute.
What am I giving away? The entire updated curriculum for the Build a Better Customer program. In full - with nothing left out.
See, during the pilot program, I was hesitant to share a lot of what made this program really tick for me. Quite honestly, my faith and belief in God really drives my success, and it's at the core of this program.
I felt like I had to water it down tremendously in order to create "mass appeal" for the product.
But in my coaching sessions, my clients were actually appreciative of the references to God and faith, when I was feeling so apologetic about it. It became clear to me that THIS was the way GOD wanted me to operate. Not from some shady, half-veiled product creation.
And someone once said that knowledge should be free. I agree to a point. I believe that basic constructs designed to improve our human existence shouldn't have a pricetag. I also believe that my hard work and creativity should be rewarded/compensated appropriately.
So after offering up this project in prayer, I've decided that the beginning of my "crack addiction' will be to GIVE the content in my Build a Better Customer Program away. I'm still working out the details, but rest assured, this program will be a fantastic tool in your business building arsenal. I've already charged hundreds for this content, and I feel confident that it's worth ten times what others have paid for it - especially now that I'm dding in all the components, like my P.E.A.C.E. process that brings even more clarity to the method.
Yep, I know. My husband thinks I'm mentally ill, too.
But I say I'm crazy like a fox.
See, when you've gone through this system, you'll feel so empowered, so motivated, and so ready to do what comes next, you'll KNOW what you need to do. And I'll be there to provide you with teh step-by-step coaching to take your business to the next level.
I will, in short, have created my 'crack addiction'.
Yeah, but what about Home Party Solution? Before you stand there, staring at the door, I want you to know that it's not gone forever - it will be making a comeback - but in a completely reborn format.
More comprehensive, more informative, and so much EASIER to follow. This will be a multimedia experience like you've never seen before in the direct sales industry. But it will come at a MUCH bigger price tag.
Yep, there I go, raising prices when everyone else is lowering them. I really am insane, huh?
Not really.
See, I can't afford to keep cranking out the same old stuff that everyone else is churning out on a monthly basis. You're too savvy for that. If you're like me, you're tired of seeing the same stuff, repackaged with a shiny new label.
About every six months, I've released an updated version of Home Party Solution, incorporating the latest information and strategies for using online marketing to grow your business. And each time I do, I raise the price. Because I'm adding more content and more knowledge. I'm shortening your learning curve immensely.
And I think that's worth a few pennies in the bucket.
But the one thing I kept hearing over and over was that people wanted to see some video, hear some audio, make it a little more interactive.
Your wish is my command.
So I'll be spending the next couple of months totally revising, revamping and suping up the engine that is Home Party Solution. In the end, the finished product will actually be TWO products: A solution specifically for Direct Sales consultants, and another solution targeted to small business owners in general.
So much of what I teach crosses over, and I've seen my subscriber base expand from just home party consultants to a wider array of work from home, small business entrpreneurs.
It will be concise, powerful, portable and interactive. And we're going to cover more than just the basics. You won't BELIEVE what you're going to be experiencing. And I can't wait to share it with you.
In the meantime, you best pick up your copy of Home Party Solution before it becomes a collector's item. Once that happens, people could be selling it on ebay for a few hundred bucks.
Don't laugh! I've seen it happen before!
When they're gone, we're closing the doors. And I promise you it'll be at LEAST March before the new version is ready - possibly even April or May. I'm not going to do this thing half way. If you want the insider tips and secrets I've been sharing with my clients for the past year, now's the time to get on the bandwagon before every last copy is sold out.
Yes, the PM2 Mastermind group will still be available, and if you get the complete Home Party Solution package now, you can lock in the lowest PM2 rate now.
Don't stand there staring at the door at the end of February. Jump through the window now while there's still time!
It looks like Lauren is our big winner, although I got a few emails asking all kinds of questions in addition to the posts on the blog. I think you got all the big elements of the announcement: closing Home Party Solution, giving away BBC. email me, girlie, and I'll get your content out to you.
Congrats!
Clue #13: What Does EVERY Rock Star Need?
Last Clue:
You can live without an entourage.
You can get by without drugs and floozies.
(My mom is turning over in her grave. I said "floozies" on my blog!)
You can even make it big without being able to sing, or with really good tunes.
You've GOT to have a VIDEO.
Without video, you're not a Rock Star.
At least that's what I thought when I was growing up. And I think Milli and Vanilli would probably stll agree.
You can live without an entourage.
You can get by without drugs and floozies.
(My mom is turning over in her grave. I said "floozies" on my blog!)
You can even make it big without being able to sing, or with really good tunes.
You've GOT to have a VIDEO.
Without video, you're not a Rock Star.
At least that's what I thought when I was growing up. And I think Milli and Vanilli would probably stll agree.
Clue #12: Closing Doors
I posted a few weeks ago about how we sometimes stand starting at a closed door, wondering what happened, when, in reality, we need to be looking at the window that just opened up down the way.
I'm closing a door at the end of February.
I can't say it any plainer than that. So please don't stand staring at it, hoping it will re-open.
That door is closed forever.
Which door? You'll find out in less than an hour. But who cares!?!
You should be looking for the window.
There are people that will call me a meat head for closing this door.
There are people that will sratch their heads and wonder what I'm up to.
And there are people that will bang on that door for weeks after it's been closed, trying to get back in.
They should be looking for the window.
There WILL be a window of opportunity between tonight's announcement and the closing door at theend of the month.
Will you be looking for it?
Will you take advantage of it?
Or will you sit there, scratching your head, staring at the door, come March?
This isn't a scare tactic. This isn't a "going out of business sale".
This is me, culling the wheat from the chaff. Closing the door on projects that aren't as good a they could be to make way for something SO amazing, you'll fall out of your chair when you hear about it later tonight.
At least I HOPE you'll fall out of your chair. I think it's pretty exciting.
I'm closing a door at the end of February.
I can't say it any plainer than that. So please don't stand staring at it, hoping it will re-open.
That door is closed forever.
Which door? You'll find out in less than an hour. But who cares!?!
You should be looking for the window.
There are people that will call me a meat head for closing this door.
There are people that will sratch their heads and wonder what I'm up to.
And there are people that will bang on that door for weeks after it's been closed, trying to get back in.
They should be looking for the window.
There WILL be a window of opportunity between tonight's announcement and the closing door at theend of the month.
Will you be looking for it?
Will you take advantage of it?
Or will you sit there, scratching your head, staring at the door, come March?
This isn't a scare tactic. This isn't a "going out of business sale".
This is me, culling the wheat from the chaff. Closing the door on projects that aren't as good a they could be to make way for something SO amazing, you'll fall out of your chair when you hear about it later tonight.
At least I HOPE you'll fall out of your chair. I think it's pretty exciting.
Clue #11: What Got You Here, Won't Get You There
That's the title of a book I checked out at the local library a few weeks ago.
Regretfully, it was also the book I didn't get to read before it was due back. I had also checked out half a dozen other books that I thought would be a quick read, but Tim Ferris' "4 Hour Work Week" kept me busier than a 1-armed paper hanger in a stiff breeze.
But the title caught my eye, because in my heart I know it's true. What got you to the level of success you are presently at in life won't get you to the next level of success in your life.
Realize, of course, that "success" is a relative term. If you're living in a one room hovel with no floor and no heat, it's going to take more than that to bring you to the next level of success in your life. Likewise, if you're pulling down $42 billion a year, you'll need to think beyond where you're at to get to $43 billion.
I've maintained for years that success has to be on your terms. You are the only person that can define what success is for you.
Maybe it's just keeping a roof over your head.
Maybe it's paying cash for your kid's college education.
Maybe it's early retirement and being debt free.
Maybe it's 12 yachts, 2 helicopters and a vacation home on every continent.
Whatever success is on your terms is where your passion/mission lies.
I want to help you find it because what got you where you are now, won't (by itself) be enough to get you where you want to go next.
And do you even know where "there" is?
Many people don't. Some THINK they do, but often they are living a pttern that was cut out by someone else FOR them.
Once you find your passion/mission in life, everything else pales in comparison, and you are compelled to live it.
Everyone should not only get a glimpse of their passion, they should get to live it fully and completely.
And helping people get there is MY mission.
I was very serious when I said I wanted to find 10 people this year and help them hit the 6 figure income mark. That's NOT what this contest is related to, but I figure the more people I let know about it, the better my chances of those 10 people finding me.
But more than helping 10 people break 6 figures in 12 months, I want to help as many of you as possible find that focus in your business, that passion that drives you to be at your absolute best and perform beyond even YOUR expectations. And find YOUR definition of Ultimate success.
Maybe I'm a little hungover from soaking in a lot of reading on human potential. Maybe I'm a little nuts, but I've see what the human mind - and human beings - are capable of achieving when they find their "calling".
Nothing can stop them. They become like machines bent on fulfilling their prupose.
I want you to be unstoppable, fully charged, and ready to get from here to "there" in your life.
So I'm giving away something that will take you from where you are now to your next step. That's the first half of this big announcement.
But what am I giving away?
And what's Part 2 of this big announcement?
Just a few more hours!
Regretfully, it was also the book I didn't get to read before it was due back. I had also checked out half a dozen other books that I thought would be a quick read, but Tim Ferris' "4 Hour Work Week" kept me busier than a 1-armed paper hanger in a stiff breeze.
But the title caught my eye, because in my heart I know it's true. What got you to the level of success you are presently at in life won't get you to the next level of success in your life.
Realize, of course, that "success" is a relative term. If you're living in a one room hovel with no floor and no heat, it's going to take more than that to bring you to the next level of success in your life. Likewise, if you're pulling down $42 billion a year, you'll need to think beyond where you're at to get to $43 billion.
I've maintained for years that success has to be on your terms. You are the only person that can define what success is for you.
Maybe it's just keeping a roof over your head.
Maybe it's paying cash for your kid's college education.
Maybe it's early retirement and being debt free.
Maybe it's 12 yachts, 2 helicopters and a vacation home on every continent.
Whatever success is on your terms is where your passion/mission lies.
I want to help you find it because what got you where you are now, won't (by itself) be enough to get you where you want to go next.
And do you even know where "there" is?
Many people don't. Some THINK they do, but often they are living a pttern that was cut out by someone else FOR them.
Once you find your passion/mission in life, everything else pales in comparison, and you are compelled to live it.
Everyone should not only get a glimpse of their passion, they should get to live it fully and completely.
And helping people get there is MY mission.
I was very serious when I said I wanted to find 10 people this year and help them hit the 6 figure income mark. That's NOT what this contest is related to, but I figure the more people I let know about it, the better my chances of those 10 people finding me.
But more than helping 10 people break 6 figures in 12 months, I want to help as many of you as possible find that focus in your business, that passion that drives you to be at your absolute best and perform beyond even YOUR expectations. And find YOUR definition of Ultimate success.
Maybe I'm a little hungover from soaking in a lot of reading on human potential. Maybe I'm a little nuts, but I've see what the human mind - and human beings - are capable of achieving when they find their "calling".
Nothing can stop them. They become like machines bent on fulfilling their prupose.
I want you to be unstoppable, fully charged, and ready to get from here to "there" in your life.
So I'm giving away something that will take you from where you are now to your next step. That's the first half of this big announcement.
But what am I giving away?
And what's Part 2 of this big announcement?
Just a few more hours!
Clue #10: Red Hot Chili Peppers
"give it away, give it away, give it away now."
That song was an anthem in my high school days.
I still don't get the lyrics, but who cares? The pulsing beat, the driving rhythm of the lyrics maes you want to give...
give...
give...
"Give it away give it away give it away now!"
For those of you guessing I'm giving something away, you're on the right track. You can't create a crazy addiction if you don't.
Yes, it something more than my weekly ezine.
No, it's not something specifically targeted to direct sales consultants.
But something giving away is only HALF of creating an addiction. I've outlined the rest of it in previous clues.
Each clue gives you glimpses of what I'm about to do.
Yes, it's a bit shocking.
Yes, there's a reward system built into it (but not necessarily an affiliate program)
Things are getting kicked up a notch. In direct sales, it's nothing you've ever seen done before. In business, I'm bringing coaching to a whole new level.
You'll find out more in a few hours. In the meantime, are you guys going to let Lauren run away with the guesses?
That song was an anthem in my high school days.
I still don't get the lyrics, but who cares? The pulsing beat, the driving rhythm of the lyrics maes you want to give...
give...
give...
"Give it away give it away give it away now!"
For those of you guessing I'm giving something away, you're on the right track. You can't create a crazy addiction if you don't.
Yes, it something more than my weekly ezine.
No, it's not something specifically targeted to direct sales consultants.
But something giving away is only HALF of creating an addiction. I've outlined the rest of it in previous clues.
Each clue gives you glimpses of what I'm about to do.
Yes, it's a bit shocking.
Yes, there's a reward system built into it (but not necessarily an affiliate program)
Things are getting kicked up a notch. In direct sales, it's nothing you've ever seen done before. In business, I'm bringing coaching to a whole new level.
You'll find out more in a few hours. In the meantime, are you guys going to let Lauren run away with the guesses?
Clue #9: Taking Massive Action
One of my favorite coaches talks endlessly about taking massive action to see your desired results.
I'll admit I've never been a massive action taker.
Well, at least not how I would define massive.
In my mind, massive action means staying up all day and all night focusing singlemindedly on achieving this one particular goal or task.
It means eliminating all distractions, and putting blinders on to everything else except that thing you are applying your total focus to.
That ain't happening in my world.
I wake up between 5 and 6 am most days (yes, even on the weekends). It's just how my brain and body are wired. I'm also in bed most day sby 9 or 10pm. Those late nights for me are few and far between - and I SURE feel it the next day if I do.
Some would say that makes me old. I say it makes me a MOM.
I am up because my bouncing little toddler is ready to start his day. Heaven wouldn't have it if I kept sleeping. Then my oldest needs tending to as well. He may be 12, but there's still the requisite "Wake up it's time for school" that echoes through my home each morning.
Feed the kids, bathe the kids, dressing the kids, transport, sometimes I even get to take a shower!
Who has time for single-minded focus?
Don't get me started on the telephone! I know I'm not the only person that experiences what I call "mom-dar". Kids have this kack for knowing when I'm on the phone. I can start a pleasant and focused as I want to, and then...
*BAM!*
one of my precious angesl is yelling, screaming or breaking something in the other room.
They were quiet just moments before I dialed the phone, I swear.
"One moment please." I say in my nicest voice to the customer on the other end of the phone.
"WILLYOUKIDSSHUTUPI'MONTHEPHONEANDICAN'TEHARAWORDTHEY'RESAYINGCAUSEYOU'RETOOBLEEEPIN'LOUD!"
That's the monster voice that comes from the great beyond to posess me momentarily whilst I try to calmly ask my kids to turn down the volume.
"Thank you for holding, I appreciate your patience" I resume on my call.
I know I'm not the only person that has this happen to them, right?
Right?
So who can possibly create massive action in their lives, when we just want a little positive momentum?
You can. And so can I.
I made this discovery when a friend of mine turned to me one day and said "I don't know how you do it all."
"Do what all?" I replied.
"You've got a business (or three), kids, a husband, you write books, teach classes, and still have time to write music, do shows and all this STUFF!"
I guess I never thought I couldn't do it. I just sort of figured that if I wanted to do this stuff, I'd make it happen somehow.
THAT'S taking massive action. It's relative. It's doing incrementally more than you've ever done before, and doing it on a consistent basis. It's taking advantage of the teeniest tiniest of moments and putting them to work for you, instead of standing around wondering where you're going to find the time to take massive action.
So this weekend, when I should have been having a blast with my pals in NC, I took advantage of the time given back to me by my husband's boss (remind me to thank him sometime).
I took massive action. I dug deep into my build a better customer program and thought long and hard about where I want to serve and who I want to serve.
A few things became crystal clear to me:
* I'm tired of having to set aside my faith when I'm doing business. Its teh very reason I AM in business.
* I want to reach out to Christian business woman in all sectors - not just Direct Sales, but I don't want to neglect the very core customers that have brought me this far. In fact, I want to help them get even FARTHER in their businesses and lives.
* I want to create a 'crack addiction' with my customers. I want them to be so fanatical about my products and services that they know their lives will be absolutely miserable without me in it.
* I don't want to work with people that don't want to work with me. (sounds silly, but it's true!)
* People are tired of hearing the same, tired mantras that haven't worked consistently for decades.
* People want honesty, integrity, resourcefulness and genuine help in growing their business.
* People are too willing to pay for stuff they should be learning for FREE.
* People are paying way too much for regurgitated crap.
* I want my products and services to be top of the line - the highest quality possible - and the best value for the investment.
* I like bells and whistles and think they should come standard.
* I want to give so much value that people would be nuts to ignore what I have to offer.
* I want to deliver consistent results. I only want recognition if I deliver the goods.
* I want everyone to be able to experience the clarity that this process has given me.
* I don't want anyone to have an excuse as to why they can't take advantage of it.
* Above all, I don't want anyone mistaking me for a "guru". I'm not a guru. I'm a ROCK STAR!
I think you can see where this is heading. We're talking about DRAMATIC shifts in the way business is done in not just the direct sales industry, but in business in general. I may be an army of one right now, but I know that there are business women who feel the same way, and we're going to start a MAJOR revolution. Individually, we may not seem like much. But together, we're taking MASSIVE action.
Thing you've got this puzzle solved? we're getting down to the wire here. Post your theory and the first person to correctly guess will win a whopper of a package. Who's it gonna be? It might as well be you!
I'll admit I've never been a massive action taker.
Well, at least not how I would define massive.
In my mind, massive action means staying up all day and all night focusing singlemindedly on achieving this one particular goal or task.
It means eliminating all distractions, and putting blinders on to everything else except that thing you are applying your total focus to.
That ain't happening in my world.
I wake up between 5 and 6 am most days (yes, even on the weekends). It's just how my brain and body are wired. I'm also in bed most day sby 9 or 10pm. Those late nights for me are few and far between - and I SURE feel it the next day if I do.
Some would say that makes me old. I say it makes me a MOM.
I am up because my bouncing little toddler is ready to start his day. Heaven wouldn't have it if I kept sleeping. Then my oldest needs tending to as well. He may be 12, but there's still the requisite "Wake up it's time for school" that echoes through my home each morning.
Feed the kids, bathe the kids, dressing the kids, transport, sometimes I even get to take a shower!
Who has time for single-minded focus?
Don't get me started on the telephone! I know I'm not the only person that experiences what I call "mom-dar". Kids have this kack for knowing when I'm on the phone. I can start a pleasant and focused as I want to, and then...
*BAM!*
one of my precious angesl is yelling, screaming or breaking something in the other room.
They were quiet just moments before I dialed the phone, I swear.
"One moment please." I say in my nicest voice to the customer on the other end of the phone.
"WILLYOUKIDSSHUTUPI'MONTHEPHONEANDICAN'TEHARAWORDTHEY'RESAYINGCAUSEYOU'RETOOBLEEEPIN'LOUD!"
That's the monster voice that comes from the great beyond to posess me momentarily whilst I try to calmly ask my kids to turn down the volume.
"Thank you for holding, I appreciate your patience" I resume on my call.
I know I'm not the only person that has this happen to them, right?
Right?
So who can possibly create massive action in their lives, when we just want a little positive momentum?
You can. And so can I.
I made this discovery when a friend of mine turned to me one day and said "I don't know how you do it all."
"Do what all?" I replied.
"You've got a business (or three), kids, a husband, you write books, teach classes, and still have time to write music, do shows and all this STUFF!"
I guess I never thought I couldn't do it. I just sort of figured that if I wanted to do this stuff, I'd make it happen somehow.
THAT'S taking massive action. It's relative. It's doing incrementally more than you've ever done before, and doing it on a consistent basis. It's taking advantage of the teeniest tiniest of moments and putting them to work for you, instead of standing around wondering where you're going to find the time to take massive action.
So this weekend, when I should have been having a blast with my pals in NC, I took advantage of the time given back to me by my husband's boss (remind me to thank him sometime).
I took massive action. I dug deep into my build a better customer program and thought long and hard about where I want to serve and who I want to serve.
A few things became crystal clear to me:
* I'm tired of having to set aside my faith when I'm doing business. Its teh very reason I AM in business.
* I want to reach out to Christian business woman in all sectors - not just Direct Sales, but I don't want to neglect the very core customers that have brought me this far. In fact, I want to help them get even FARTHER in their businesses and lives.
* I want to create a 'crack addiction' with my customers. I want them to be so fanatical about my products and services that they know their lives will be absolutely miserable without me in it.
* I don't want to work with people that don't want to work with me. (sounds silly, but it's true!)
* People are tired of hearing the same, tired mantras that haven't worked consistently for decades.
* People want honesty, integrity, resourcefulness and genuine help in growing their business.
* People are too willing to pay for stuff they should be learning for FREE.
* People are paying way too much for regurgitated crap.
* I want my products and services to be top of the line - the highest quality possible - and the best value for the investment.
* I like bells and whistles and think they should come standard.
* I want to give so much value that people would be nuts to ignore what I have to offer.
* I want to deliver consistent results. I only want recognition if I deliver the goods.
* I want everyone to be able to experience the clarity that this process has given me.
* I don't want anyone to have an excuse as to why they can't take advantage of it.
* Above all, I don't want anyone mistaking me for a "guru". I'm not a guru. I'm a ROCK STAR!
I think you can see where this is heading. We're talking about DRAMATIC shifts in the way business is done in not just the direct sales industry, but in business in general. I may be an army of one right now, but I know that there are business women who feel the same way, and we're going to start a MAJOR revolution. Individually, we may not seem like much. But together, we're taking MASSIVE action.
Thing you've got this puzzle solved? we're getting down to the wire here. Post your theory and the first person to correctly guess will win a whopper of a package. Who's it gonna be? It might as well be you!
Clue #8: Mein Kampf - For Business
Say what you will about Adolph Hitler, but that was a man with a mission.
He knew exactly what he wanted to accomplish in his lifetime, he wrote it all out in a book, and then set out to accomplish it.
It's said that if people had given more creedence to his book "Mein Kampf", his vicious tear through Eurpoe could have been prevented.
But people wouldn't listen to a humble housepainter - until that housepainter became the infamous "HITLER".
Mein Kampf translates as "my struggle" and in his book, he literally outlines virtually every single choice he ultimately made as the ruler of Germany during the Nazi regime.
What I'm about to share is nothing so sinister, although it ties into my previous clue about creating a crack addiction.
When you write things down, it makes them more tangible. It gives them more credence, and it outlines more clearly, the steps you need to take to achieve them.
So for a "pusher" to be successful, he must first:
obtain a product that obtains the desired effect
Offer free samples to the unsuspecting public
provide a supply to the addicts for a price
offer freebies to addicts that bring more customers
rinse and repeat
When followed precisely, the pusher always has a steady stream of clients coming in. And if someone dies along the way,it's no biggie, because they've got plenty more people coming in on a daily basis. They just need to keep up with supply and demand.
To the uninitiated, this sounds liek a cold, calculating attempt to part you from your hard earned cash. And it would be except that in my analogy, the products I'm offering don't kill you. At least I haven't heard anything so crazy yet.
This is the exact model that most business owners try to replicate, except they usually omit one or two steps, thus flawing the system.
In order to create a crack addiction with your customers, you MUST follow the steps exactly:
Create a great product (a newsletter isn't enough anymore)
Give it away free (FREE, not for a very low price, FREE!)
Create a second product even better than the first and command a good price for it
Offer specials/discounts/freebies to customers that bring in new clients
rinse and repeat
The people that fall in love with your product will tell other people - why not reward them? That's part of the reason affiliate programs and customer loyalty programs have become so popular in the last decade.
Spreading the word creates an exponentially increasing customer base. As you continue to create better products (everything can be improved upon), people will seek you out. Because you have a reputation for "good stuff", people will be willing to pay the price you ask - instead of having to slash prices during a recession.
It's all around us right now. People closing up shop, slashing prices, "everything must go" attitudes. I would bet that drug dealers aren't feeling the pinch. They aren't lowering prices because they know there's someone out there willing to pay for their "good stuff".
And during times like these, MORE people are probably turning to them because they want to escape from the depression all around them.
And so it goes in business. If you've created something so spectacular that people are lining up to get it, you can afford to NOT slash prices because you've got people willing to pay you for your product or service.
You can literally start your own campaign for world domination - or at least your business world.
This is my manifesto. It's my plan of conquest - one addict at a time. Me and my army of addicts are going to change the face of the business world. We're going to storm through the streets in hamlets and cities and declare an end to regurgitated information at insanely high prices. We're going to demand quality and quantity, and not settle for cookie cutter coaching.
We're raising the bar, creating a "super race" of business people that are smart, savvy, and ready to grow powerful businesses for the benefit of themselves AND mankind. We're an army of women that are tired of being lied to, sold to, and cheated out of our dreams. We're taking control of our businesses and creating the future WE dreamed about - the future God has planned for us.
We're committing ourselves to excellence, and sharing knowledge, and pushing the envelope for constant improvement. We'll take our message across the globe, and create a community of devotees (addicts, if you will), that will spread this message one addict at a time.
Insert maniacal laughter here.
In all seriousness, this is the way good companies are built. Jeep created a hard core fan base - Jeep addicts. Same with Hummer, Apple, Coke, Virgin, and dozens more. They stand for something, create a culture, and promote the heck out of it. They give to get. Give an experience, get a loyal customer, repay the customer's loyalty, get an addict. Addicts beget addicts. And the cycle continues.
And so it is with me.
Have you got it figured out yet? We're getting down to the wire and I'm sharing more and more details as we get closer to the BIG unveil tonight at 7pm Eastern.
You can post your guesses here. I'll be checking in periodically, and the first person to correctly guess will be declared the winner of every physical product I've ever created. I'll announce that winner at 7PM as well. Good luck everyone!
He knew exactly what he wanted to accomplish in his lifetime, he wrote it all out in a book, and then set out to accomplish it.
It's said that if people had given more creedence to his book "Mein Kampf", his vicious tear through Eurpoe could have been prevented.
But people wouldn't listen to a humble housepainter - until that housepainter became the infamous "HITLER".
Mein Kampf translates as "my struggle" and in his book, he literally outlines virtually every single choice he ultimately made as the ruler of Germany during the Nazi regime.
What I'm about to share is nothing so sinister, although it ties into my previous clue about creating a crack addiction.
When you write things down, it makes them more tangible. It gives them more credence, and it outlines more clearly, the steps you need to take to achieve them.
So for a "pusher" to be successful, he must first:
obtain a product that obtains the desired effect
Offer free samples to the unsuspecting public
provide a supply to the addicts for a price
offer freebies to addicts that bring more customers
rinse and repeat
When followed precisely, the pusher always has a steady stream of clients coming in. And if someone dies along the way,it's no biggie, because they've got plenty more people coming in on a daily basis. They just need to keep up with supply and demand.
To the uninitiated, this sounds liek a cold, calculating attempt to part you from your hard earned cash. And it would be except that in my analogy, the products I'm offering don't kill you. At least I haven't heard anything so crazy yet.
This is the exact model that most business owners try to replicate, except they usually omit one or two steps, thus flawing the system.
In order to create a crack addiction with your customers, you MUST follow the steps exactly:
Create a great product (a newsletter isn't enough anymore)
Give it away free (FREE, not for a very low price, FREE!)
Create a second product even better than the first and command a good price for it
Offer specials/discounts/freebies to customers that bring in new clients
rinse and repeat
The people that fall in love with your product will tell other people - why not reward them? That's part of the reason affiliate programs and customer loyalty programs have become so popular in the last decade.
Spreading the word creates an exponentially increasing customer base. As you continue to create better products (everything can be improved upon), people will seek you out. Because you have a reputation for "good stuff", people will be willing to pay the price you ask - instead of having to slash prices during a recession.
It's all around us right now. People closing up shop, slashing prices, "everything must go" attitudes. I would bet that drug dealers aren't feeling the pinch. They aren't lowering prices because they know there's someone out there willing to pay for their "good stuff".
And during times like these, MORE people are probably turning to them because they want to escape from the depression all around them.
And so it goes in business. If you've created something so spectacular that people are lining up to get it, you can afford to NOT slash prices because you've got people willing to pay you for your product or service.
You can literally start your own campaign for world domination - or at least your business world.
This is my manifesto. It's my plan of conquest - one addict at a time. Me and my army of addicts are going to change the face of the business world. We're going to storm through the streets in hamlets and cities and declare an end to regurgitated information at insanely high prices. We're going to demand quality and quantity, and not settle for cookie cutter coaching.
We're raising the bar, creating a "super race" of business people that are smart, savvy, and ready to grow powerful businesses for the benefit of themselves AND mankind. We're an army of women that are tired of being lied to, sold to, and cheated out of our dreams. We're taking control of our businesses and creating the future WE dreamed about - the future God has planned for us.
We're committing ourselves to excellence, and sharing knowledge, and pushing the envelope for constant improvement. We'll take our message across the globe, and create a community of devotees (addicts, if you will), that will spread this message one addict at a time.
Insert maniacal laughter here.
In all seriousness, this is the way good companies are built. Jeep created a hard core fan base - Jeep addicts. Same with Hummer, Apple, Coke, Virgin, and dozens more. They stand for something, create a culture, and promote the heck out of it. They give to get. Give an experience, get a loyal customer, repay the customer's loyalty, get an addict. Addicts beget addicts. And the cycle continues.
And so it is with me.
Have you got it figured out yet? We're getting down to the wire and I'm sharing more and more details as we get closer to the BIG unveil tonight at 7pm Eastern.
You can post your guesses here. I'll be checking in periodically, and the first person to correctly guess will be declared the winner of every physical product I've ever created. I'll announce that winner at 7PM as well. Good luck everyone!
Clue#7: Creating a Crack Addiction
I've been toying with the idea that in order to be successful in business, you have to create a loyal following that goes beyond "customer satisfaction" and even a bit past "customer loyalty".
I call it "customer crack addiction".
Now, I mean this in the nicest possible way, with no offense to any crackheads that might be reading my post.
I examined other possible ideas and concepts. I've read Jeffrey Gitomer's book, "Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, Customer Loyalty is Priceless", and I agree with so much of what he writes.
At one point he draws the comparison to a marriage. Would you want your spouse to be "satisfied" or "loyal"?
Great analogy. But I think there's another level: "Addicted"
In my mind, I want my spouse to be addicted to me. He can't get enough of me. Would do anything to be close to me. I might draw the line at being obsessed with having me, but I think you get the idea.
The Bible tells husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. In my mind, that means be willing to die for me. To lay down his life in order to save me.
Periodically, I ask my husband if he's willing to take a bullet, or give up a kidney for me.
I'm still working on getting him "trained". Hee hee.
But in business, you I believe you CAN create an addiction to your products and services. Before I share that wih you, though, let's take a look at the desired results:
Crack/Cocaine is a nervous system stimulant. It affects the brain, and leaves you in a temporary state of euphoria. Essentially, you feel SO GOOD while you're "high" on the drug that you lose touch with the problems and issues of your reality. I heard Tony Robbins explain it in his Personal Power series of 20 years ago. In basic terms, you are feeling immense pleasure and absolutely no pain while you are under the influence of the drug. You have no inhibitions, no fears, no doubts, worries. Nothing negative exists in this world.
NO WONDER people become drug addicts!
And how does the pusher work?
He gives you a taste for free. You might remember the commercals that ran in the late 80's/early 90's with the kid who was just supposed to give the 'stuff' away. Then when his friends came back - "THAT'S When I start charging?" said the kid.
Before this story takes a dark turn, let's bring it back to my business analogy.
We've all seen the thousans upon thousands of 'freebies' that are given away every singleday on the internet. Put you email address here and we'll give you our free ezine, our free special report, our free tip of the week, our free piece of day old limburger cheese...
I'm kidding about the cheese.
But you get the idea. Everyone's offering something for free to get you to give up your precious contact information so that they can barrage you with emails about the latest and greatest thing they want to sell you.
Here's where I start to huff and puff. I'm blowing the house down, folks.
I've built my newsletter over the past year to a sizeable audience. Thousands of you read my work every week. I'm humbled by that. And I don't charge a penny for it - and never will as far as I can tell. As long as email is free, my newsletter will be too.
But like cocaine, once you develop a tolerance for it, you need more and more to get the high you first did. And no, I've never done drugs, just so we're clear on that. I'm a just say no girl. If anything, chocolate is my drug of choice!
So you, as a consumer, have grown immune to the "click here for your free report" type marketing. And that's GOOD news for you.
Because it means we as sales people have to raise the bar and give you more value.
As far as I'm concerned, I want your business. I want to make millions and millions of dollars off my customers for decades to come. I want to create a crack addiction with you. I want you to be so excited about the products and services that I offer that you don't even blink an eye about opening your wallet to "get the goods" from me.
But like a drug addiction, you're not paying big coin for regurgitated crap. I'm not selling you baking soda or powdered sugar. This is a powerful, mind expanding, state altering product. Once you've tried it, you'll never go back to the way you were. It's not possible. You will have changed in your very core. You will be SO different because you will know things you may not have known before. You'll be so CLEAR on your mission and passion in your life, that you'll know what to do and how to take action.
But like any good "pusher" you first have to get a sample...
Some of you are giving some great guesses. Tell your friends to join in the fun, there's still time! The big announcement is tonight at 7pm. Post your guesses here, and watch this blog for more clues throughout the day!
I call it "customer crack addiction".
Now, I mean this in the nicest possible way, with no offense to any crackheads that might be reading my post.
I examined other possible ideas and concepts. I've read Jeffrey Gitomer's book, "Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, Customer Loyalty is Priceless", and I agree with so much of what he writes.
At one point he draws the comparison to a marriage. Would you want your spouse to be "satisfied" or "loyal"?
Great analogy. But I think there's another level: "Addicted"
In my mind, I want my spouse to be addicted to me. He can't get enough of me. Would do anything to be close to me. I might draw the line at being obsessed with having me, but I think you get the idea.
The Bible tells husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. In my mind, that means be willing to die for me. To lay down his life in order to save me.
Periodically, I ask my husband if he's willing to take a bullet, or give up a kidney for me.
I'm still working on getting him "trained". Hee hee.
But in business, you I believe you CAN create an addiction to your products and services. Before I share that wih you, though, let's take a look at the desired results:
Crack/Cocaine is a nervous system stimulant. It affects the brain, and leaves you in a temporary state of euphoria. Essentially, you feel SO GOOD while you're "high" on the drug that you lose touch with the problems and issues of your reality. I heard Tony Robbins explain it in his Personal Power series of 20 years ago. In basic terms, you are feeling immense pleasure and absolutely no pain while you are under the influence of the drug. You have no inhibitions, no fears, no doubts, worries. Nothing negative exists in this world.
NO WONDER people become drug addicts!
And how does the pusher work?
He gives you a taste for free. You might remember the commercals that ran in the late 80's/early 90's with the kid who was just supposed to give the 'stuff' away. Then when his friends came back - "THAT'S When I start charging?" said the kid.
Before this story takes a dark turn, let's bring it back to my business analogy.
We've all seen the thousans upon thousands of 'freebies' that are given away every singleday on the internet. Put you email address here and we'll give you our free ezine, our free special report, our free tip of the week, our free piece of day old limburger cheese...
I'm kidding about the cheese.
But you get the idea. Everyone's offering something for free to get you to give up your precious contact information so that they can barrage you with emails about the latest and greatest thing they want to sell you.
Here's where I start to huff and puff. I'm blowing the house down, folks.
I've built my newsletter over the past year to a sizeable audience. Thousands of you read my work every week. I'm humbled by that. And I don't charge a penny for it - and never will as far as I can tell. As long as email is free, my newsletter will be too.
But like cocaine, once you develop a tolerance for it, you need more and more to get the high you first did. And no, I've never done drugs, just so we're clear on that. I'm a just say no girl. If anything, chocolate is my drug of choice!
So you, as a consumer, have grown immune to the "click here for your free report" type marketing. And that's GOOD news for you.
Because it means we as sales people have to raise the bar and give you more value.
As far as I'm concerned, I want your business. I want to make millions and millions of dollars off my customers for decades to come. I want to create a crack addiction with you. I want you to be so excited about the products and services that I offer that you don't even blink an eye about opening your wallet to "get the goods" from me.
But like a drug addiction, you're not paying big coin for regurgitated crap. I'm not selling you baking soda or powdered sugar. This is a powerful, mind expanding, state altering product. Once you've tried it, you'll never go back to the way you were. It's not possible. You will have changed in your very core. You will be SO different because you will know things you may not have known before. You'll be so CLEAR on your mission and passion in your life, that you'll know what to do and how to take action.
But like any good "pusher" you first have to get a sample...
Some of you are giving some great guesses. Tell your friends to join in the fun, there's still time! The big announcement is tonight at 7pm. Post your guesses here, and watch this blog for more clues throughout the day!
Clue #6: One Part Mom, One Part Rock Star
If you've read my bio blurb in my weekly ezine, it says "one part mom, one part rock star". That's only slightly tongue in cheek.
When I was a little girl, I dreamed of touring the country, being a rock star, singing songs I wrote. In fact, I've even self-released two albums. You can even listen to some of my music. It's 'defniitely not mainstream pop music' - or at least that's what one of the guys at Universal Music said when I submitted my demo for a listen.
I've never been a conformist - at least not on the surface. I have some core beliefs that are pretty standard, but my mode of operation has always been a little on the rebellious side of things. If people tell me I 'Can't' do something, I almost always say "watch me!" and figure out a way to do it anyhow.
So even though I'm a relative unknown in the music industry, I have fans across the globe that listen to and enjoy my music.
And just to be clear, this post has NOTHING to do with me forming a rock band, releasing a new album or touring whilst playing my music. The Stand Up Coach and I are planning a 'world tour', but you'll hear more about that at another time, and it has nothing to do with these new developments.
It's really been the last couple of days that have crystallized these must do activities for me.
As far as your guesses go, Lauren's on the right track. This isn't about a speaking tour (there's more details about that coming later in Spring), and it isn't about me quitting my DS company (HEAVENS NO!). This is about me stepping into a space that I should have been in all along, and was too afraid to do it.
The only antidote for fear is faith.
I always envisioned Rock stars, in my mind, as fearless. They could get up on a stage, entrance a crowd of thousands and inspire throngs of people with their work. Everytime their music plays freely over the airwaves, you get re-inspired, transported and motivated to feel this kind of empowerment from within the very music itself.
I always wanted to have that kind of effect on people. Without the drugs, scandals and bad habits that many musicians were known for. I wanted to inspire and motivate people with my creations and do it in a very unconventional way.
That means taking a zig when others zag. It means standing out in a crowd. It means going against the grain.
Like a Rock Star.
In this economy, people are still paying $500 a seat to see The Police live in concert. Why?
Because they're Rock Stars! They've established themselves as a household name to the audience that loves them. They don't have to worry about whether or not people will show up to their concerts, or if they'll make enough money to pay the bills this month.
They're ROCK STARS!
Watch what other direct sales coaches are doing right now: they're sweating. They've taught you everything they know. You've heard it all before, and to keep themselves alive, they're doing bargain basement price slashing. One direct sales coach is offring a teleseminar series (5 calls) for $40! That would barely cover the costs of putting on the FIRST call, let alone all 5.
Why is she doing that? Simple, just like you (well, some of you) bookings are down. Her income is tanking, and she needs to stay at the top of mind to keep you buying from her.
Another diect sales coach piloted a monthly telecoaching program at an introductory rate, and couldn't get enough members to raise it to the standard rate she wanted to charge. Why? Because she's just regurgitating her content!
There's nothing new there.
Like a good Rock Star, you have to have new material on a regular basis. Sure, the Greatest Hits are fun to hear, and familiar. They're easy to embrace. And YES, you run the risk of alienating some of your die hard fans when you create something new. But on the whole, your fans want to be delighted with something exciting, different and NEW.
Do you remember the first time your favorite band played a new song on the radio? I do. I would scooch up to the radio as close as I could so I didn't miss a single note. I'd scribble down the lyrics as fast as my pencil could keep up. I wanted to be the FIRST to know that new song, so I could share it with everyone - and look cool in the process.
Sometimes I still do that, although I will admit I'm a bit more restrained as a 'grown up' than I was as a child. i don't actually push people out of the way anymore to get to the radio.
So when direct sales coaches offer "new" products, I get excited! I scramble to the front of the line to see what it's all about.
And I usually shuffle away with my head hung down in shame at another batch of regurgitated content.
Don't get me wrong, booking, selling, and recruiting are the 3 pillars of direct sales. If you want to be truly successful, you have to do all three in some combination.
But there's more to this business than just those three things, and frankly, I'm tired of hearing so-called industry 'experts' that just keep saying the same things over and over and over.
Maybe that list of 100 people ISN'T enough to get your business started. Maybe you DO have to think outside the box - especially in this economy.
So that's what I'm doing. I'm thinking outside the box. I'm doing something that, as far as I know, no other direct sales business coach has ever done before. I'm going against the grain and doing some things that no other direct sales coach would ever DREAM of doing, because to them, it would mean losing money.
But I think like a ROCK STAR!
Think you've got this all figured out yet? Bet ya don't! But the clues get hotter as the day goes on today. We're leading up to the BIG unveil tonight at 7pm eastern. Post your comments below. The first one to correctly guess will win a complete set of all the physical products I've ever created (yes, even my music CD's, if you want them!).
When I was a little girl, I dreamed of touring the country, being a rock star, singing songs I wrote. In fact, I've even self-released two albums. You can even listen to some of my music. It's 'defniitely not mainstream pop music' - or at least that's what one of the guys at Universal Music said when I submitted my demo for a listen.
I've never been a conformist - at least not on the surface. I have some core beliefs that are pretty standard, but my mode of operation has always been a little on the rebellious side of things. If people tell me I 'Can't' do something, I almost always say "watch me!" and figure out a way to do it anyhow.
So even though I'm a relative unknown in the music industry, I have fans across the globe that listen to and enjoy my music.
And just to be clear, this post has NOTHING to do with me forming a rock band, releasing a new album or touring whilst playing my music. The Stand Up Coach and I are planning a 'world tour', but you'll hear more about that at another time, and it has nothing to do with these new developments.
It's really been the last couple of days that have crystallized these must do activities for me.
As far as your guesses go, Lauren's on the right track. This isn't about a speaking tour (there's more details about that coming later in Spring), and it isn't about me quitting my DS company (HEAVENS NO!). This is about me stepping into a space that I should have been in all along, and was too afraid to do it.
The only antidote for fear is faith.
I always envisioned Rock stars, in my mind, as fearless. They could get up on a stage, entrance a crowd of thousands and inspire throngs of people with their work. Everytime their music plays freely over the airwaves, you get re-inspired, transported and motivated to feel this kind of empowerment from within the very music itself.
I always wanted to have that kind of effect on people. Without the drugs, scandals and bad habits that many musicians were known for. I wanted to inspire and motivate people with my creations and do it in a very unconventional way.
That means taking a zig when others zag. It means standing out in a crowd. It means going against the grain.
Like a Rock Star.
In this economy, people are still paying $500 a seat to see The Police live in concert. Why?
Because they're Rock Stars! They've established themselves as a household name to the audience that loves them. They don't have to worry about whether or not people will show up to their concerts, or if they'll make enough money to pay the bills this month.
They're ROCK STARS!
Watch what other direct sales coaches are doing right now: they're sweating. They've taught you everything they know. You've heard it all before, and to keep themselves alive, they're doing bargain basement price slashing. One direct sales coach is offring a teleseminar series (5 calls) for $40! That would barely cover the costs of putting on the FIRST call, let alone all 5.
Why is she doing that? Simple, just like you (well, some of you) bookings are down. Her income is tanking, and she needs to stay at the top of mind to keep you buying from her.
Another diect sales coach piloted a monthly telecoaching program at an introductory rate, and couldn't get enough members to raise it to the standard rate she wanted to charge. Why? Because she's just regurgitating her content!
There's nothing new there.
Like a good Rock Star, you have to have new material on a regular basis. Sure, the Greatest Hits are fun to hear, and familiar. They're easy to embrace. And YES, you run the risk of alienating some of your die hard fans when you create something new. But on the whole, your fans want to be delighted with something exciting, different and NEW.
Do you remember the first time your favorite band played a new song on the radio? I do. I would scooch up to the radio as close as I could so I didn't miss a single note. I'd scribble down the lyrics as fast as my pencil could keep up. I wanted to be the FIRST to know that new song, so I could share it with everyone - and look cool in the process.
Sometimes I still do that, although I will admit I'm a bit more restrained as a 'grown up' than I was as a child. i don't actually push people out of the way anymore to get to the radio.
So when direct sales coaches offer "new" products, I get excited! I scramble to the front of the line to see what it's all about.
And I usually shuffle away with my head hung down in shame at another batch of regurgitated content.
Don't get me wrong, booking, selling, and recruiting are the 3 pillars of direct sales. If you want to be truly successful, you have to do all three in some combination.
But there's more to this business than just those three things, and frankly, I'm tired of hearing so-called industry 'experts' that just keep saying the same things over and over and over.
Maybe that list of 100 people ISN'T enough to get your business started. Maybe you DO have to think outside the box - especially in this economy.
So that's what I'm doing. I'm thinking outside the box. I'm doing something that, as far as I know, no other direct sales business coach has ever done before. I'm going against the grain and doing some things that no other direct sales coach would ever DREAM of doing, because to them, it would mean losing money.
But I think like a ROCK STAR!
Think you've got this all figured out yet? Bet ya don't! But the clues get hotter as the day goes on today. We're leading up to the BIG unveil tonight at 7pm eastern. Post your comments below. The first one to correctly guess will win a complete set of all the physical products I've ever created (yes, even my music CD's, if you want them!).
Clue #5: If You Love Something, Set it Free
"If you love something, set it free. If it comes back to you, it's yours. If it doesn't, it never was. We do not possess anything in this world, least of all other people. We only imagine that we do. Our friends, our lovers, our spouses, even our children are not ours; they belong only to themselves. Possessive and controlling friendships and relationships can be as harmful as neglect."
A Chinese Proverb, this quote has been in my head in one form or another since childhood. My grandmother cautiously reminded me to let the butterflies be, instead of trying to catch them by their wing on the flower.
Nobody said I was classy. I thought catching bugs was cool.
But Grandma was truly a woman. She was kindhearted and earthy. She didn't think catching bugs was ladylike. She strove to "meet me where I was" though, and used a little psychology on me.
"If you love it, set it free and see if it comes back to you. If it doesn't it wasn't yours."
I lost more butterflies that way. Thanks Grandma!
But the lesson was indellible in my mind. And in the past year, my childhood memories have been replaying - a bit more somberly now than before - and I'm remembering some valuable lessons.
I love learning. I've loved reading and growing and powering up my brain for as long as I can remember. I started reading at an early age, and I really wanted to see my kids grow into loversof learning as well.
Right now, my oldest is NOT big into learning. Although I did catch hm checking out a book of Latin poetry at the library a few weeks ago. He said he wanted to impress a "chick at school" by writing out the latin and the english side by side.
There may be hope for him yet.
I've always wanted to share my passion for learning and knowledge and skill-building. But I NEVER wanted to be a teacher. Our educational systems are assembly lines for cranking out kids that meet the minimum requirements for life. And I say that with all the love I can possibly have, because my mom was a teacher, my aunts are teachers, my cousin is a teacher. My sister even did a stint as a teacher.
And I guess some would say I'm a teacher, too.
But public school teaching in this country is a thankless, tough job. I never had the intestinal fortitude to endure the grief so many in my family willingly did. They gave up a lifetime of working to teach childrn, mold minds and create a different world. I give them all teh props in the world - because I never could have done it.
Instead, I turned my desire to teach into an income-driven business model. I taught voice, piano and clarinet lessons from my mobile studio. I even taught guitar briefly. Then I developed my newsletter, the book, and ultimately the entire construct that is now Home Party Solution.
And along the way, I found myself felling like it wasn't all exactly right. Like I was only doing part of the work God set out for me to do.
I reached a turning point last July.
If I could do anything, if money were no object, if what others said or thought didn't matter, and if I knew I couldn't fail, where was I feeling God pulling me?
I couldn't dodge it. And the process that I went through inspired the build a better customer program. It's truly been a labor of love for me.
I knew I had developed something life changing, but I was so afraid that mine would be the only life it would change. I was scared to share my findings because deep down inside I wondered:
"What if this process only works for me? Then what will I do?"
But January proved to me that this s one of the most amazing and transformative processes I have ever experienced - and it works for others, too. And I've been thrilled with the way it has changed people's businesses and outlooks on life as well.
But I keep hearing Grandma's voice in my head...
Think you've got this one figured out? Post your guess. The first correct answer will win the keys to the kingdom! Every physical product I've ever created. We've had some creative guesses so far, but we're gettng to the wire and NO ONE's gotten it all right yet. There's only a few more clues between now and Sunday night at 7pm eastern.
A Chinese Proverb, this quote has been in my head in one form or another since childhood. My grandmother cautiously reminded me to let the butterflies be, instead of trying to catch them by their wing on the flower.
Nobody said I was classy. I thought catching bugs was cool.
But Grandma was truly a woman. She was kindhearted and earthy. She didn't think catching bugs was ladylike. She strove to "meet me where I was" though, and used a little psychology on me.
"If you love it, set it free and see if it comes back to you. If it doesn't it wasn't yours."
I lost more butterflies that way. Thanks Grandma!
But the lesson was indellible in my mind. And in the past year, my childhood memories have been replaying - a bit more somberly now than before - and I'm remembering some valuable lessons.
I love learning. I've loved reading and growing and powering up my brain for as long as I can remember. I started reading at an early age, and I really wanted to see my kids grow into loversof learning as well.
Right now, my oldest is NOT big into learning. Although I did catch hm checking out a book of Latin poetry at the library a few weeks ago. He said he wanted to impress a "chick at school" by writing out the latin and the english side by side.
There may be hope for him yet.
I've always wanted to share my passion for learning and knowledge and skill-building. But I NEVER wanted to be a teacher. Our educational systems are assembly lines for cranking out kids that meet the minimum requirements for life. And I say that with all the love I can possibly have, because my mom was a teacher, my aunts are teachers, my cousin is a teacher. My sister even did a stint as a teacher.
And I guess some would say I'm a teacher, too.
But public school teaching in this country is a thankless, tough job. I never had the intestinal fortitude to endure the grief so many in my family willingly did. They gave up a lifetime of working to teach childrn, mold minds and create a different world. I give them all teh props in the world - because I never could have done it.
Instead, I turned my desire to teach into an income-driven business model. I taught voice, piano and clarinet lessons from my mobile studio. I even taught guitar briefly. Then I developed my newsletter, the book, and ultimately the entire construct that is now Home Party Solution.
And along the way, I found myself felling like it wasn't all exactly right. Like I was only doing part of the work God set out for me to do.
I reached a turning point last July.
If I could do anything, if money were no object, if what others said or thought didn't matter, and if I knew I couldn't fail, where was I feeling God pulling me?
I couldn't dodge it. And the process that I went through inspired the build a better customer program. It's truly been a labor of love for me.
I knew I had developed something life changing, but I was so afraid that mine would be the only life it would change. I was scared to share my findings because deep down inside I wondered:
"What if this process only works for me? Then what will I do?"
But January proved to me that this s one of the most amazing and transformative processes I have ever experienced - and it works for others, too. And I've been thrilled with the way it has changed people's businesses and outlooks on life as well.
But I keep hearing Grandma's voice in my head...
Think you've got this one figured out? Post your guess. The first correct answer will win the keys to the kingdom! Every physical product I've ever created. We've had some creative guesses so far, but we're gettng to the wire and NO ONE's gotten it all right yet. There's only a few more clues between now and Sunday night at 7pm eastern.
Clue #4: Scriptually Speaking...
Here's where I'll lose a truckload of subscribers, but I'm okay with that.
I am a Christian.
I am a God-fearing woman that has really struggled with the question "Just how much God can I sprinkle into my work without coming across as a Bible thumper?"
I still screw up. I still make horrible, terrible mistakes in my life. I am FAR from perfect. And I still love God and hear the voice of the Baptist pastor from my youth telling the entire congregaton that if we wanted to have peace in our hearts, "You need JEEESUS!"
I don't think it's wrong to say I need Jesus. I don't think it's wrong to share that love and gratitude with others - or to cite the source. To NOT do so would be contrary to everything I believe, in terms of giving credit where credit is due.
To God be the glory.
That said, I DO think it's wrong to try to ram scripture down the throats of people that aren't interested. That's just a waste of time and energy -two commodities I've discovered this year that are very precious to me. I think it was Victor Frankl, in his book, Man's Search For Meaning, that laid down a challenge to meet people where they are. You can't push people into your space. They have to be led, and desire to go there of their own will. Only then will they embrace the space you're in as their own.
So while my Catholic charge is to preach the good news in the world, as a business person, I have to temper my fervor for God by meeting people where they are. Many of the business women I work with are stay-at-home moms. Many are from a Judeo-Christian background, but some are not. My business is NOT here to convert people. But it IS an extension of my mission to serve God.
So as a Christian, how do I convey to the world that part of why I'm good at what I do is a direct result of the relationship I have with my creator and sustainer?
That was one of the biggest challenges I faced when I was developing the Build a Better Customer Program. In fact part of creating my perfect fit customer was the idea that I wanted to serve more Christian business women - regardless of their industry. But I also wanted to continue to serve my core client base - home party consultants - in a way that would elevate everyone and help me fulfill my mission without burning bridges unnecessarily.
I created Home Party Solution because a number of my friends, family and fellow direct sales consultants said that I should write a book about how I grew my business. 'PartyOn!' was a newsletter I created because I wanted to help consultants grow their business like a real business. Everything I've ever done in this crazy little company has been an extention of serving others.
I wanted to help others. I wanted to bless others as God had blessed me. There's no real secret to my success. I just found something that worked for me and I implemented it. I stayed consistent with it, and I was rewarded for my commitment.
So as I roll into 2009, I'm looking at ways to help even more people, reach even more people, and effect positive change in the lives of even MORE people still.
Think you've figured out my Big Announcement? Post your guess here. I'll announce the big winner (and the BIG Announcement) on the Blog on Sunday night.
I am a Christian.
I am a God-fearing woman that has really struggled with the question "Just how much God can I sprinkle into my work without coming across as a Bible thumper?"
I still screw up. I still make horrible, terrible mistakes in my life. I am FAR from perfect. And I still love God and hear the voice of the Baptist pastor from my youth telling the entire congregaton that if we wanted to have peace in our hearts, "You need JEEESUS!"
I don't think it's wrong to say I need Jesus. I don't think it's wrong to share that love and gratitude with others - or to cite the source. To NOT do so would be contrary to everything I believe, in terms of giving credit where credit is due.
To God be the glory.
That said, I DO think it's wrong to try to ram scripture down the throats of people that aren't interested. That's just a waste of time and energy -two commodities I've discovered this year that are very precious to me. I think it was Victor Frankl, in his book, Man's Search For Meaning, that laid down a challenge to meet people where they are. You can't push people into your space. They have to be led, and desire to go there of their own will. Only then will they embrace the space you're in as their own.
So while my Catholic charge is to preach the good news in the world, as a business person, I have to temper my fervor for God by meeting people where they are. Many of the business women I work with are stay-at-home moms. Many are from a Judeo-Christian background, but some are not. My business is NOT here to convert people. But it IS an extension of my mission to serve God.
So as a Christian, how do I convey to the world that part of why I'm good at what I do is a direct result of the relationship I have with my creator and sustainer?
That was one of the biggest challenges I faced when I was developing the Build a Better Customer Program. In fact part of creating my perfect fit customer was the idea that I wanted to serve more Christian business women - regardless of their industry. But I also wanted to continue to serve my core client base - home party consultants - in a way that would elevate everyone and help me fulfill my mission without burning bridges unnecessarily.
I created Home Party Solution because a number of my friends, family and fellow direct sales consultants said that I should write a book about how I grew my business. 'PartyOn!' was a newsletter I created because I wanted to help consultants grow their business like a real business. Everything I've ever done in this crazy little company has been an extention of serving others.
I wanted to help others. I wanted to bless others as God had blessed me. There's no real secret to my success. I just found something that worked for me and I implemented it. I stayed consistent with it, and I was rewarded for my commitment.
So as I roll into 2009, I'm looking at ways to help even more people, reach even more people, and effect positive change in the lives of even MORE people still.
Think you've figured out my Big Announcement? Post your guess here. I'll announce the big winner (and the BIG Announcement) on the Blog on Sunday night.
Clue #3: Chinese New Year Resolutions
Chinese New Year officially was Jan 26.
That's good news, since most people have blown their New Year's Resolutions to smithereens by then.
It makes February a good time to get a fresh start. You can basically commit to re-committing yourself to achieving all those resolutions you set out to attain in January.
This month, why not make a move to clear out all the clutter? Get rid of the old projects and tasks that have been holding you back from finding real success! Take on some new challenges, and embrace change that will move your life forward with new momentum.
In January, I launched the pilot program for Build a Better Customer. This program has changed my life inprofoud ways in the past 6 months. In January, I unveiled the pilot program to a select number of clients. The results were SO amazing! The limited number of people that participated in this program gained so much clarity in their lives and focus on their goals!
Achievement was all over these guys! They made some amazing strides. What a great way to launch their new year.
And it gave me some great ideas about the kinds of people I want to work with and serve in the future. My heart will always be in direct sales. I've been a direct sales consultant, coach and leader for over 12 years. I wouldn't trade a minute of it for anything.
But I also discovered that I love serving business women regardless of their industry. Direct sales is but a small slice of the female entrepreneurial market. And I want the opportunity to reach out and help them, too. That's part of why I created this program. BBC isn't just for home party consultants. It's for anyone that wants to gain clarity in their business, and work with their perfect fit customer. By focusing on one question every day, you develop the power within yourself to take your business to new levels.
The question? It's really not a mystery:
"I am building better customers. My perfect fit customer is looking for me right now. What can I do TODAY to help them find me faster, help them find me faster, help them find me faster?"
It's a very powerful question. When coupled with the other tools in the program, we've seen increases in job satisfaction, boosts in booking, sales and recruiting, as well as more clarity in the drection of people's lives.
One of my resolutions for the year was to help moer people find success in their business. In particular, I have a goal to help 10 entrepreneurs attain a 6 figure income in the next 12 months. I am happy to say that that is one resolution I haven't blown.
As for eliminating chocolate from my diet...well, I guess I'll have to try again for Chinese New Year.
That's good news, since most people have blown their New Year's Resolutions to smithereens by then.
It makes February a good time to get a fresh start. You can basically commit to re-committing yourself to achieving all those resolutions you set out to attain in January.
This month, why not make a move to clear out all the clutter? Get rid of the old projects and tasks that have been holding you back from finding real success! Take on some new challenges, and embrace change that will move your life forward with new momentum.
In January, I launched the pilot program for Build a Better Customer. This program has changed my life inprofoud ways in the past 6 months. In January, I unveiled the pilot program to a select number of clients. The results were SO amazing! The limited number of people that participated in this program gained so much clarity in their lives and focus on their goals!
Achievement was all over these guys! They made some amazing strides. What a great way to launch their new year.
And it gave me some great ideas about the kinds of people I want to work with and serve in the future. My heart will always be in direct sales. I've been a direct sales consultant, coach and leader for over 12 years. I wouldn't trade a minute of it for anything.
But I also discovered that I love serving business women regardless of their industry. Direct sales is but a small slice of the female entrepreneurial market. And I want the opportunity to reach out and help them, too. That's part of why I created this program. BBC isn't just for home party consultants. It's for anyone that wants to gain clarity in their business, and work with their perfect fit customer. By focusing on one question every day, you develop the power within yourself to take your business to new levels.
The question? It's really not a mystery:
"I am building better customers. My perfect fit customer is looking for me right now. What can I do TODAY to help them find me faster, help them find me faster, help them find me faster?"
It's a very powerful question. When coupled with the other tools in the program, we've seen increases in job satisfaction, boosts in booking, sales and recruiting, as well as more clarity in the drection of people's lives.
One of my resolutions for the year was to help moer people find success in their business. In particular, I have a goal to help 10 entrepreneurs attain a 6 figure income in the next 12 months. I am happy to say that that is one resolution I haven't blown.
As for eliminating chocolate from my diet...well, I guess I'll have to try again for Chinese New Year.
Clue #2: Happy Anniversary!?
I've been doing some celebrating lately: Big celebrations and small ones.
In November, I celebrated the first anniversary of "PartyOn!", my weekly ezine. It started as a monthly newsletter that went out to a whopping 7 people.
It quickly grew to a weekly publication in anticipation of the launch of my first physical product. My book, Home Party Solution, made waves in the home party/direct sales industry. I celebrate the anniversary of it's release this month.
And I missed celebrating the one year anniversary of this humble little blog. That was in January. I've had my mug on the cover of this blog for a year now and no one's complained. You can't imagine what that does for my ego!
In the past year, I've seen a lot of changes. The launch of the PM2 coaching group, a joint venture with Ruth Fuersten - Direct Sales JUMP Start, as well as dozens of other new business relationships that are growing my business in new ways. Plus the recent launch of my new Build a Better Customer Program, which has gotten RAVE reviews from the participants.
But there are also a few commemorations this year. In March, I will commemorate the death of my Mom and Grandfather. They died within a week of each other last March, and that has dramatically altered the color and shape of my world. It will be 10 years since my Dad died in May, so I guess that sort of makes me an orphan.
Not to get all melancholy on you, it's just indicative that in life, things change, and sometimes we have to bid farewell to people and things we love to make room in our lives for new relationships and things that will benefit our future in bigger and better ways. Since the funerals, my relationship with my sister has blossomed. My business took a new direction that enabled me to create the Build a Better Customer program. I got very clear on where I want my business to go, and who I want to help along the way.
How to get there, well, that's another story.
Nature abhors a vaccum. Empty space needs to be filled up. That explains why my dining room table always has "stuff" on it.
Think you've got this mystery all wrapped up? Post your ideas below. The first person to correctly guess the big announcement will win the keys to my kingdom - every physical product I've ever created!
In November, I celebrated the first anniversary of "PartyOn!", my weekly ezine. It started as a monthly newsletter that went out to a whopping 7 people.
It quickly grew to a weekly publication in anticipation of the launch of my first physical product. My book, Home Party Solution, made waves in the home party/direct sales industry. I celebrate the anniversary of it's release this month.
And I missed celebrating the one year anniversary of this humble little blog. That was in January. I've had my mug on the cover of this blog for a year now and no one's complained. You can't imagine what that does for my ego!
In the past year, I've seen a lot of changes. The launch of the PM2 coaching group, a joint venture with Ruth Fuersten - Direct Sales JUMP Start, as well as dozens of other new business relationships that are growing my business in new ways. Plus the recent launch of my new Build a Better Customer Program, which has gotten RAVE reviews from the participants.
But there are also a few commemorations this year. In March, I will commemorate the death of my Mom and Grandfather. They died within a week of each other last March, and that has dramatically altered the color and shape of my world. It will be 10 years since my Dad died in May, so I guess that sort of makes me an orphan.
Not to get all melancholy on you, it's just indicative that in life, things change, and sometimes we have to bid farewell to people and things we love to make room in our lives for new relationships and things that will benefit our future in bigger and better ways. Since the funerals, my relationship with my sister has blossomed. My business took a new direction that enabled me to create the Build a Better Customer program. I got very clear on where I want my business to go, and who I want to help along the way.
How to get there, well, that's another story.
Nature abhors a vaccum. Empty space needs to be filled up. That explains why my dining room table always has "stuff" on it.
Think you've got this mystery all wrapped up? Post your ideas below. The first person to correctly guess the big announcement will win the keys to my kingdom - every physical product I've ever created!
What the Devil's Goin' On Around Here?
So my husband calls me from work on Wednesday and tells me we need to cancel our trip. He said that work was a chaotic mess and that he couldn't leave with things out of control. Add to that the fact that a co-worker had to tend to his father's medical emergency, and well, he had to stay, and had to work on what were supposed to be his days off.
I was SO bummed, I almost cried.
My oldest was pouting and pcing the floor, very upset that he was going to miss out on swimming at the hotel. North Carolina is balmy compared to the zero degree weather we have in Flint, right now.
I was more bummed that I wasn't going to be able to hook up with my pal from school and my new pal, Tracy Needham.
But I finally figured out that I could use this time to be TOTALLY productive - since everyone thought I was leaving town anyway!
No phone calls, no distractions, no email just focus on getting things done.
Then I had a MAJOR epiphany. One that will change my business FOREVER.
I make the big announcement Sunday night. But if you can guess what it is, you'll win the KEYS to my Kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created.
I know you'll never guess. In fact, I'll drop clues to you all weekend, and I bet you'll STILL never guess.
It's transformative, and it's going to blow EVERYONE out of the water!
Here's the first hint (as if the above wasn't enough):
My good friend is a Mardi Gras FANATIC. She absoluetly loves the celebration, the history, culture and heritage of the whole event. She frequently visits New Orleans during this festive time, when the whole town becomes a giant street party. She knows more trivia than you can possibly imagine, and is currently holding a trivia contest as a lead up to her big Mardi Gras Party at the end of February. While I'll be at her house getting swept up in the revelry of Fat Tuesday (on a Saturday!), another tradition will have already begun.
LENT.
So what's your guess? Post a comment to this post, and more clues will be coming every few hours. The First Person to correctly guess the big changes will get the keys to my kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created!
I was SO bummed, I almost cried.
My oldest was pouting and pcing the floor, very upset that he was going to miss out on swimming at the hotel. North Carolina is balmy compared to the zero degree weather we have in Flint, right now.
I was more bummed that I wasn't going to be able to hook up with my pal from school and my new pal, Tracy Needham.
But I finally figured out that I could use this time to be TOTALLY productive - since everyone thought I was leaving town anyway!
No phone calls, no distractions, no email just focus on getting things done.
Then I had a MAJOR epiphany. One that will change my business FOREVER.
I make the big announcement Sunday night. But if you can guess what it is, you'll win the KEYS to my Kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created.
I know you'll never guess. In fact, I'll drop clues to you all weekend, and I bet you'll STILL never guess.
It's transformative, and it's going to blow EVERYONE out of the water!
Here's the first hint (as if the above wasn't enough):
My good friend is a Mardi Gras FANATIC. She absoluetly loves the celebration, the history, culture and heritage of the whole event. She frequently visits New Orleans during this festive time, when the whole town becomes a giant street party. She knows more trivia than you can possibly imagine, and is currently holding a trivia contest as a lead up to her big Mardi Gras Party at the end of February. While I'll be at her house getting swept up in the revelry of Fat Tuesday (on a Saturday!), another tradition will have already begun.
LENT.
So what's your guess? Post a comment to this post, and more clues will be coming every few hours. The First Person to correctly guess the big changes will get the keys to my kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created!
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