Is change something to celebrate? Often times when we think of change, fear is our first emotion. Most people do not like to think of change, because it feels like something out of our control. When you think of change what feelings come to mind; fear, doubt, anxiety, terror, dread, the unknown, unexpected, anger? Or do you look at it with feelings of; excitement, enthusiasm, anticipation, hopefulness, eagerness or even joy?
You have probably heard the saying, “Change is the only constant in life.” Since change is constantly occurring, then we must learn how to accept it, and even learn to celebrate the changes. Understanding change will be your first step to celebrating change.
Change has several faces. One face is Reactionary Change. This is the type of change that occurs suddenly, and therefore we must react. An example could be an accident, a death, a sudden loss of a job, illness or a divorce which requires us to react and realign our life.
Another face is Anticipatory Change. With this type of change we have advance warning, so we are able to anticipate the change. An example could be retirement, getting married, moving to a new city, or having a baby. We are allowed the opportunity to plan for the effects on our life.
And then there is the face of the Unknown Feeling Change. With this type we may not know exactly why we want to change; we just know we want something different. An example of this type of change maybe choosing a new place to live, trying a new route instead of the normal route, or trying something new at a favorite restaurant. This type of change allows us to explore choices and options.
The last face of change is Not Quite Right Change. With this type of change we feel that something is not quite right and that there could be something better. An example of this type of change may be deciding to redecorate the house, get a new car, or just make an improvement in your life. With this type of change we are seeking a change for the better.
As we come face to face with change we will realize the impact on our life. Regardless of our emotional state surrounding the change, there will be an effect on our lives. We may feel a fundamental change, which truly changes who we are at your core, our essence. Or we may encounter a revelatory change, an epiphany that gives us that “a-ha” or "light bulb moment" type of change. Or we may experience a habitual change, where we change a long held habit.
With all change there is a process that occurs. The process doesn’t necessarily happen in a specific order, but as we progress through the change we will typically experience each aspect. First we realize that the change is occurring, although this may take some time to recognize. Once we recognize the change is occurring, we need to factually disengage from the past. To do this we will need to see what the current state is, see there is a new way and accept that change is occurring. The most difficult process in change is emotionally disengaging from the past. We may realize there is a change but may not be accepting the change, and be yearning for ‘how it used to be.’ If we can see the anticipated end we will begin to process through the change and be on our way on the learning curve. This is where the opportunity begins. With each change there is the opportunity to learn and grow. Once we are completely through the change and on the other side we will internalize the lesson, the true blessing of change.
There is a goal oriented way of getting through the process of change which may help one move from fear of change to acceptance and celebration. The steps are:
1. Identify and define the change.
2. Communicate the results of the change.
3. Recognize what is NOT changing.
4. Remember personal greatness, strengths and qualities.
5. Identify the positive feeling the change will bring.
6. Make a new plan around the change.
7. Find a support network.
If we focus on the positive aspects change can bring, we will find the blessing in change, even a difficult change allow us the opportunity to grow spiritually, and may open new paths that we could have never anticipated. Change is a blessing, sometimes in disguise. Learning to follow the steps above will make change easier and may even enrich the process. The next time you face change CELEBRATE: a new you will be emerging!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Monday, October 05, 2009
Insights of a Tourist
Recently I spent 10 fabulous days in London with my husband, visiting our daughter who lives there.
The trip came up quite suddenly. While on the phone with our daughter one morning, she was telling me about her upcoming trip to Greece and how she did not have anyone to dog sit. I immediately hung up the phone with her and ask my husband if he would like to have a flat for a week in London in exchange for dog sitting. He said book the tickets! So, a week later off we went.
We arrived in London on Friday, that evening our daughter had arranged dinner at Gaucho which offered an incredible view of the Tower Bridge
and a scrumptious meal.
On Sunday, my daughter and her guy were off to Greece.
Hubby and I spent the next several days site seeing through-out London. We took a bus tour of the city, and a boat tour. We visited the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery, Churchill's War Rooms. We strolled through the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, Hyde Park and Green Park. We even took a day trip out to Windsor Castle with the kids when they returned from Greece!
Somewhere in all this site-seeing, and walking, and trips on the tube it occurred to me that I was so enjoying just simply being a tourist. As a tourist, I was meant to be there only for a time, enjoying the sites, the history, and all that I could take in during my short visit.
Then the big epiphany came...aren't we all tourists here visiting this place we call Earth? How different would our lives be if each day we embraced the sites and splendor of this place? Would we live our life with more passion if we admitted that we are only here for a brief time? Would we try to make each day count? Would we determine our purpose, then live each day with that intention?
In this epiphanous state of mind my purpose became crystal clear; to make a positive contribution to each person I meet. I can do this not only in my professional capacity, but also by being loving, caring, and compassionate to my family members, friends, business associates, and others who cross my path.
Even though in our day to day lives we have bills to pay, deadlines to meet, health concerns, family situations, and many other facts of living to distract us, I encourage you to act like a tourist...look up, (tourists are always looking up!) see the sites, feel the air, embrace the splendor of this magnificent place! In doing so, you very well may ignite your passion, discover your purpose, and at the very least you will feel more alive!
As the saying goes, "The past is history, the future a mystery, and today's a gift, that's why it's called the PRESENT!"
The trip came up quite suddenly. While on the phone with our daughter one morning, she was telling me about her upcoming trip to Greece and how she did not have anyone to dog sit. I immediately hung up the phone with her and ask my husband if he would like to have a flat for a week in London in exchange for dog sitting. He said book the tickets! So, a week later off we went.
We arrived in London on Friday, that evening our daughter had arranged dinner at Gaucho which offered an incredible view of the Tower Bridge and a scrumptious meal.
On Sunday, my daughter and her guy were off to Greece.
Hubby and I spent the next several days site seeing through-out London. We took a bus tour of the city, and a boat tour. We visited the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery, Churchill's War Rooms. We strolled through the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, Hyde Park and Green Park. We even took a day trip out to Windsor Castle with the kids when they returned from Greece!
Somewhere in all this site-seeing, and walking, and trips on the tube it occurred to me that I was so enjoying just simply being a tourist. As a tourist, I was meant to be there only for a time, enjoying the sites, the history, and all that I could take in during my short visit.
Then the big epiphany came...aren't we all tourists here visiting this place we call Earth? How different would our lives be if each day we embraced the sites and splendor of this place? Would we live our life with more passion if we admitted that we are only here for a brief time? Would we try to make each day count? Would we determine our purpose, then live each day with that intention?
In this epiphanous state of mind my purpose became crystal clear; to make a positive contribution to each person I meet. I can do this not only in my professional capacity, but also by being loving, caring, and compassionate to my family members, friends, business associates, and others who cross my path.
Even though in our day to day lives we have bills to pay, deadlines to meet, health concerns, family situations, and many other facts of living to distract us, I encourage you to act like a tourist...look up, (tourists are always looking up!) see the sites, feel the air, embrace the splendor of this magnificent place! In doing so, you very well may ignite your passion, discover your purpose, and at the very least you will feel more alive!
As the saying goes, "The past is history, the future a mystery, and today's a gift, that's why it's called the PRESENT!"
Friday, September 04, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Developing Your Money Magician
If you want to learn about "Unleashing Your True Potential for Prosperity and Fulfillment" then read Money Magic by Deborah L. Price! This book is chocked full of insightful, useful information.
Ms. Price starts by explaining about the energy of money and why there are winners and loser in the money game. The most interesting part of the book was Price’s description of the eight money types:
• The Innocent
• The Victim
• The Warrior
• The Martyr
• The Fool
• The Creator/Artist
• The Tyrant
• The Magician
So how do we recognize these types, and identify which type we are? I am sure we've all known people like these.
For instance my friend who has no clue of what her take home pay is and how much her monthly expenses are, she'd be The Innocent. Or my relative, The Victim, who continually makes bad choices with her money then blames everyone else and gets her mother to bail her out. And oh boy, you know The Warrior type, he is so focused on money, he sets out to conquer the world, all in an effort to prove his own self-worth. Then there's The Martyr, poor thing, she spends all her time, energy and money on everyone else. I think I dated The Fool once or twice, they play by a different set of money rules, usually rules they try to stack in their favor! The Creator/Artist type just finds it difficult to live in the material world and would rather not have to think about money. I think we've all known The Tyrant, he dedicates his whole life to making money so he can use it to feel superior and control those in his life. Finally, there is The Magician, these are probably the millionaires and billionaires, because they know how to transform and manifest their own financial reality!
Most of us are probably a combination of money types. I could see small traits of all them in myself. At times I am The Innocent, because I would rather not pay attention to the money details, and sometimes I’m The Victim, who likes to blame the economic downturn, but then The Warrior in me will emerge briefly, until The Martyr takes over and I spend too much money on my kids, then I truly feel like The Fool, and crawl into The Creator/Artist who wonders why we need money anyway, until the Tyrant emerges reminding me that the one with the gold makes the rules. Unfortunately, cycling through all these types has never lead to The Magician, who I am sure resides somewhere in my mind.
This book challenged me to define my relationship with money through a series of exercises such "Your Money Biography" and "Identifying Your Money Archetype". Although I am still a work in progress, I feel I am on my way to developing a new relationship with money and on the path to finding or developing The Magician but maybe, The Magician is just a state of mind where we feel truly abundant, prosperous and fulfilled! I can hear the tune strumming through my head, “I’m in a Magician state of mind!”
Ms. Price starts by explaining about the energy of money and why there are winners and loser in the money game. The most interesting part of the book was Price’s description of the eight money types:
• The Innocent
• The Victim
• The Warrior
• The Martyr
• The Fool
• The Creator/Artist
• The Tyrant
• The Magician
So how do we recognize these types, and identify which type we are? I am sure we've all known people like these.
For instance my friend who has no clue of what her take home pay is and how much her monthly expenses are, she'd be The Innocent. Or my relative, The Victim, who continually makes bad choices with her money then blames everyone else and gets her mother to bail her out. And oh boy, you know The Warrior type, he is so focused on money, he sets out to conquer the world, all in an effort to prove his own self-worth. Then there's The Martyr, poor thing, she spends all her time, energy and money on everyone else. I think I dated The Fool once or twice, they play by a different set of money rules, usually rules they try to stack in their favor! The Creator/Artist type just finds it difficult to live in the material world and would rather not have to think about money. I think we've all known The Tyrant, he dedicates his whole life to making money so he can use it to feel superior and control those in his life. Finally, there is The Magician, these are probably the millionaires and billionaires, because they know how to transform and manifest their own financial reality!
Most of us are probably a combination of money types. I could see small traits of all them in myself. At times I am The Innocent, because I would rather not pay attention to the money details, and sometimes I’m The Victim, who likes to blame the economic downturn, but then The Warrior in me will emerge briefly, until The Martyr takes over and I spend too much money on my kids, then I truly feel like The Fool, and crawl into The Creator/Artist who wonders why we need money anyway, until the Tyrant emerges reminding me that the one with the gold makes the rules. Unfortunately, cycling through all these types has never lead to The Magician, who I am sure resides somewhere in my mind.
This book challenged me to define my relationship with money through a series of exercises such "Your Money Biography" and "Identifying Your Money Archetype". Although I am still a work in progress, I feel I am on my way to developing a new relationship with money and on the path to finding or developing The Magician but maybe, The Magician is just a state of mind where we feel truly abundant, prosperous and fulfilled! I can hear the tune strumming through my head, “I’m in a Magician state of mind!”
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Big Business Layoffs, Small Business Opportunities
Richard Branson predicts more big business layoffs and opportunity for small businesses.
In an interview for American Express, the mega business mogul (best know for his Virgin brand of over 360 companies including Virgin Airlines and Virgin Records) shared how he sees the gaps that will be created by big business layoffs that can be filled by small businesses. Regarding the current financial crisis he says it is up to all entrepreneurs to do everything possible to make our businesses stronger, that in fact small business is what will get America back on our feet.
Branson encourages business owners to talk with their existing customers to get innovative ideas for new products and services. He also reminds business owners of the value of leadership and communication with their employees in an effort to cut waste and make their business stronger.
Branson sees hope and opportunity for small businesses in spite of, and possibly because of, these tough economic times. We'd all be wise heed his words, after all this is a guy who has proven he has an eye for opportunity!
To see part of Branson’s interview click here.
In an interview for American Express, the mega business mogul (best know for his Virgin brand of over 360 companies including Virgin Airlines and Virgin Records) shared how he sees the gaps that will be created by big business layoffs that can be filled by small businesses. Regarding the current financial crisis he says it is up to all entrepreneurs to do everything possible to make our businesses stronger, that in fact small business is what will get America back on our feet.
Branson encourages business owners to talk with their existing customers to get innovative ideas for new products and services. He also reminds business owners of the value of leadership and communication with their employees in an effort to cut waste and make their business stronger.
Branson sees hope and opportunity for small businesses in spite of, and possibly because of, these tough economic times. We'd all be wise heed his words, after all this is a guy who has proven he has an eye for opportunity!
To see part of Branson’s interview click here.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
The Blogging Effort
It's been a very interesting day regarding blogging.
First let me say, on most days I don't think about blogging. I actually only think of it once or twice a month, either when I write my email newsletter or when I am reminding my newsletter list of my FREE monthly tele-coaching session. Today is neither of those days, so it's unusual for me to even think of blogs or blogging.
But, as I said, today has been interesting.
My first encounter with thinking about blogs and blogging began at a lunch networking meeting where one of the attendees gave her 60 second elevator speech of who she is and where she works. I don't remember any of what she said about that. But when another attendee said something like, "Tell them about your entrepreneurial work." She then said, "Oh yeah, I teach people how to monetize their blogs." Then that same attendee said, "Tell them how much you made last year on your blog." She then said, "About $35,000, working about 5 hours a week." Wow! Now that is something to think about!
My second encounter regarding blogs was a conversation I had with my daughter who has/had a high fashion blog. She was looking at a magazine and casually commented that she had not posted anything on her blog in quite sometime. We began talking about the different kinds of blog styles, her competition in the fashion blog world, and why she has somewhat lost interest. I mentioned to her about the woman from the network meeting who teaches people to monetize their blogs. She said she has a friend who knows how to do that. Of course, having today heard for the first time about the concept of 'monetizing your blog' I had to wonder why she wouldn't have already learned how to monetize her blog since she has a friend who could teach her how!
My third thought about blogs happened as I was surfing the internet to look at website designs as I am considering a website make-over. I was shocked to see how many sites had links to their blogs which hadn't had any new blog postings for months or even in over a year! As I would see that I had to wonder, "Are they still in business?" or "Have they lost interest in their business?" or "Did they just decide to quit blogging?" However, when I saw a blog with a recent posting I felt comfort in knowing this person is still passionate about their business and/or blog.
Now as I sit here this evening pondering the question of why the subject of blogs has come up for me 3 times today, I realize I have learned the following:
1. If you already have a blog it's a great idea to learn how to monetize your blog, after all a little extra income would be wonderful.
2. It is easy to loose interest in your blog. If you have lost interest, examine why and what it would take to re-gain your interest.
3. If you are not going to keep your blog current either take it down or at least leave one final message for the readers advising them that you are still in business but have decided to no longer blog.
First let me say, on most days I don't think about blogging. I actually only think of it once or twice a month, either when I write my email newsletter or when I am reminding my newsletter list of my FREE monthly tele-coaching session. Today is neither of those days, so it's unusual for me to even think of blogs or blogging.
But, as I said, today has been interesting.
My first encounter with thinking about blogs and blogging began at a lunch networking meeting where one of the attendees gave her 60 second elevator speech of who she is and where she works. I don't remember any of what she said about that. But when another attendee said something like, "Tell them about your entrepreneurial work." She then said, "Oh yeah, I teach people how to monetize their blogs." Then that same attendee said, "Tell them how much you made last year on your blog." She then said, "About $35,000, working about 5 hours a week." Wow! Now that is something to think about!
My second encounter regarding blogs was a conversation I had with my daughter who has/had a high fashion blog. She was looking at a magazine and casually commented that she had not posted anything on her blog in quite sometime. We began talking about the different kinds of blog styles, her competition in the fashion blog world, and why she has somewhat lost interest. I mentioned to her about the woman from the network meeting who teaches people to monetize their blogs. She said she has a friend who knows how to do that. Of course, having today heard for the first time about the concept of 'monetizing your blog' I had to wonder why she wouldn't have already learned how to monetize her blog since she has a friend who could teach her how!
My third thought about blogs happened as I was surfing the internet to look at website designs as I am considering a website make-over. I was shocked to see how many sites had links to their blogs which hadn't had any new blog postings for months or even in over a year! As I would see that I had to wonder, "Are they still in business?" or "Have they lost interest in their business?" or "Did they just decide to quit blogging?" However, when I saw a blog with a recent posting I felt comfort in knowing this person is still passionate about their business and/or blog.
Now as I sit here this evening pondering the question of why the subject of blogs has come up for me 3 times today, I realize I have learned the following:
1. If you already have a blog it's a great idea to learn how to monetize your blog, after all a little extra income would be wonderful.
2. It is easy to loose interest in your blog. If you have lost interest, examine why and what it would take to re-gain your interest.
3. If you are not going to keep your blog current either take it down or at least leave one final message for the readers advising them that you are still in business but have decided to no longer blog.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Amp Up Those Resources
In these times of economic downturn (the new catch phrase for recession or depression) many are loosing jobs, homes, and businesses.
Many of the external resources we've come to rely on may no longer be readily available such as jobs, easy to acquire credit, and investment income.
Now is the perfect time to focus on and develop our internal resources. Internal resources are attitude, awareness, creativity, confidence, courage, determination, education, knowledge, passion, and skills. We can amplify these for to our personal lives as well as our businesses.
Perhaps John F. Kennedy said it best when he said, "The human mind is our fundamental resource."
When experiencing a loss of external resources, invest in internal resources. External resources may come and go, but our internal resources with see us through!
Many of the external resources we've come to rely on may no longer be readily available such as jobs, easy to acquire credit, and investment income.
Now is the perfect time to focus on and develop our internal resources. Internal resources are attitude, awareness, creativity, confidence, courage, determination, education, knowledge, passion, and skills. We can amplify these for to our personal lives as well as our businesses.
Perhaps John F. Kennedy said it best when he said, "The human mind is our fundamental resource."
When experiencing a loss of external resources, invest in internal resources. External resources may come and go, but our internal resources with see us through!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Topic of the Month--Resourcefulness
What comes to mind when you think of resourcefulness? Do you think; inventive, self-reliant, imaginative, or perhaps well-connected or wealthy. There are both inner resources and outer resources. When we develop our inner resources the outer will follow.
"Few men during their lifetime come anywhere near exhausting the resources dwelling within them. There are deep wells of strength that are never used."
- Richard Byrd
"Few men during their lifetime come anywhere near exhausting the resources dwelling within them. There are deep wells of strength that are never used."
- Richard Byrd
Thursday, May 21, 2009
What's Hot Now?
A recent Yahoo! News headline read, "Hot in recession: Cheaper wine, chocolate, Spam". Needless to say, this caught my attention! Even though we are in an "economic downturn" -- our new phrase for depression or recession (we certainly would want to scare anyone with those words) this article revealed which products are currently experiencing a growth in sales.
Included in the list --I've added my comments:
• Chocolate --we must have something to make us happy
• Cheaper Wine --makes us happy and saves money
• Running Shoes --guess we can't pay the gym membership anymore
• Gold Coins --maybe we're loosing our faith in the US dollar
• Spam, Dinty Moore stew, Hormel chili --so much for dining out
• Seeds --better learn how to grow our own food just in case we can't afford Spam
• Stomach remedies --this makes perfect sense, our stomachs are upset over the
economy, or maybe it's the canned meat products
• Fishing Equipment --fish is better than Spam, plus it is something to do with our
time since we don't have extra money to spend
• Lipstick --well if you can't get a new outfit, perhaps new lipstick
• Guns --are we that scared?
The good news here is as the article states, "It is not all doom and gloom in the US economy." We are still spending money, just in smaller sums and for things that bring us a little happiness and a sense of security!
Included in the list --I've added my comments:
• Chocolate --we must have something to make us happy
• Cheaper Wine --makes us happy and saves money
• Running Shoes --guess we can't pay the gym membership anymore
• Gold Coins --maybe we're loosing our faith in the US dollar
• Spam, Dinty Moore stew, Hormel chili --so much for dining out
• Seeds --better learn how to grow our own food just in case we can't afford Spam
• Stomach remedies --this makes perfect sense, our stomachs are upset over the
economy, or maybe it's the canned meat products
• Fishing Equipment --fish is better than Spam, plus it is something to do with our
time since we don't have extra money to spend
• Lipstick --well if you can't get a new outfit, perhaps new lipstick
• Guns --are we that scared?
The good news here is as the article states, "It is not all doom and gloom in the US economy." We are still spending money, just in smaller sums and for things that bring us a little happiness and a sense of security!
Saturday, May 16, 2009
What is "Normal" now for your business?
With many businesses feeling the effects of the economic downturn, a new "normal" is evolving, what's yours?
Monday, April 20, 2009
Could your self-esteem use a boost?
Join Coach Rhonda tonight April 20th at 7pm EST for a FREE coaching workshop.
When you are self-confident you will:
* Do what you believe is right, even if others mock or criticize you.
* Be willing to take risks and go the extra mile to achieve better things.
* Admit your mistakes and vow to learn from them.
* Accept compliments graciously.
* Pursue and achieve your goals.
To register click here.
When you are self-confident you will:
* Do what you believe is right, even if others mock or criticize you.
* Be willing to take risks and go the extra mile to achieve better things.
* Admit your mistakes and vow to learn from them.
* Accept compliments graciously.
* Pursue and achieve your goals.
To register click here.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Self-Confidence: Learning to Have Faith and Trust in Yourself
Do you have faith and trust in yourself? Confidence is trust or faith that a person or thing is capable. if you have faith and trust in yourself you have confidence.
I am astonished at how many women I meet who struggle with self-confidence. A lack of confidence affects your relationships, business/career, and can even affect your health. There are many factors that can lead to a lack of confidence such as gender, birth order, and parent’s attitudes.
Did you know that boys are called on to answers teacher’s questions more often than girls? Do you know why? More boys raise their hands than girls. So naturally when the teacher sees 10 boys with hands up and only 2 girls, the teacher will pick a boy. Boys raise their hands even when they don’t know the answer. Girls raise their hands only when they know the answer and sometimes not even then.
First born children are usually more confident, particularly if they are male. Parents pay lots of attention to everything a first-born does, therefore creating more confidence. If one or both of your parents were excessively critical, demanding or overprotective you may not have developed self-confidence.
So what if you are a woman, who was not the first born, with parents who were overly critical or protective? What if don’t have faith and trust in yourself? How can you build your confidence?
First recognize what self-confidence looks like. When you are self-confident you will:
Do what you believe is right, even if others mock or criticize you.
Be willing to take risks and go the extra mile to achieve better things.
Admit your mistakes and vow to learn from them.
Accept compliments graciously.
If you lack confidence you may:
Base your behavior on what other people think.
Stay in your comfort zone because you fear failure.
Cover up mistakes.
Dismiss compliments.
To build your confidence you must understand that it is like a muscle. There is no quick fix. Confidence must be warmed up, worked out, and stretched on a consistent basis to reach maximum potential and peak performance. Here are some steps to get you started:
1. Mentally prepare. Take stock of where you are, where you want to go, and commit yourself to starting and staying with it.
2. Look at what you have already achieved by writing out your 5 greatest accomplishments or finest moments. You may want to post this somewhere you can see it often.
3. Give yourself credit for everything you try. By applauding yourself for trying you will build confidence.
4. Approach new experiences as opportunities to learn regardless of the outcome.
5. Listen to self talk. Eliminate negative self-talk. If you have self-doubts, write them down and challenge them with rational solutions.
6. Build your knowledge and/or skills by taking a class or course. Go get the degree or certificate that will prove your abilities to the world and yourself.
7. Understand that you will make mistakes and you will not be perfect. Perfection is the antagonist of confidence.
8. Set small goals (as steps to your bigger goals) and when you achieve them celebrate.
9. Continue to stretch yourself by setting even bigger goals.
10. Hire a coach if you can't do it on your own.
Self-confidence is about balance. You know that negative outcomes are possible, but rather than exaggerating or minimizing it, you give it the due attention necessary (what can I do if this happens ...). Perhaps a better definition of confidence is the state of balanced perceptions and preparation.
And what will be the result of this new found confidence? Those around you will notice your confidence and you will inspire confidence in others. Perhaps Jack Welch said it best, “Confidence gives you courage and extends your reach. It lets you take greater risks and achieve far more than you ever thought possible!”
I am astonished at how many women I meet who struggle with self-confidence. A lack of confidence affects your relationships, business/career, and can even affect your health. There are many factors that can lead to a lack of confidence such as gender, birth order, and parent’s attitudes.
Did you know that boys are called on to answers teacher’s questions more often than girls? Do you know why? More boys raise their hands than girls. So naturally when the teacher sees 10 boys with hands up and only 2 girls, the teacher will pick a boy. Boys raise their hands even when they don’t know the answer. Girls raise their hands only when they know the answer and sometimes not even then.
First born children are usually more confident, particularly if they are male. Parents pay lots of attention to everything a first-born does, therefore creating more confidence. If one or both of your parents were excessively critical, demanding or overprotective you may not have developed self-confidence.
So what if you are a woman, who was not the first born, with parents who were overly critical or protective? What if don’t have faith and trust in yourself? How can you build your confidence?
First recognize what self-confidence looks like. When you are self-confident you will:
Do what you believe is right, even if others mock or criticize you.
Be willing to take risks and go the extra mile to achieve better things.
Admit your mistakes and vow to learn from them.
Accept compliments graciously.
If you lack confidence you may:
Base your behavior on what other people think.
Stay in your comfort zone because you fear failure.
Cover up mistakes.
Dismiss compliments.
To build your confidence you must understand that it is like a muscle. There is no quick fix. Confidence must be warmed up, worked out, and stretched on a consistent basis to reach maximum potential and peak performance. Here are some steps to get you started:
1. Mentally prepare. Take stock of where you are, where you want to go, and commit yourself to starting and staying with it.
2. Look at what you have already achieved by writing out your 5 greatest accomplishments or finest moments. You may want to post this somewhere you can see it often.
3. Give yourself credit for everything you try. By applauding yourself for trying you will build confidence.
4. Approach new experiences as opportunities to learn regardless of the outcome.
5. Listen to self talk. Eliminate negative self-talk. If you have self-doubts, write them down and challenge them with rational solutions.
6. Build your knowledge and/or skills by taking a class or course. Go get the degree or certificate that will prove your abilities to the world and yourself.
7. Understand that you will make mistakes and you will not be perfect. Perfection is the antagonist of confidence.
8. Set small goals (as steps to your bigger goals) and when you achieve them celebrate.
9. Continue to stretch yourself by setting even bigger goals.
10. Hire a coach if you can't do it on your own.
Self-confidence is about balance. You know that negative outcomes are possible, but rather than exaggerating or minimizing it, you give it the due attention necessary (what can I do if this happens ...). Perhaps a better definition of confidence is the state of balanced perceptions and preparation.
And what will be the result of this new found confidence? Those around you will notice your confidence and you will inspire confidence in others. Perhaps Jack Welch said it best, “Confidence gives you courage and extends your reach. It lets you take greater risks and achieve far more than you ever thought possible!”
Monday, March 16, 2009
So, You Want to Be a COACH
You love helping people and the idea of working from home, so of course, coaching comes to mind. But what does it really take to become and be a life coach?
- Training—Coaching is both art and science. The art will come through your experiences, intuition, and personality. The science comes through training. With training you will learn to listen to text and tone. You will learn about patterns that keep people from reaching their goals and how to help your client set obtainable goals. There are many schools that offer training. An ICF approved coach training program is recommended. Once you finish the program get your certification.
- Work with a Coach—Find a coach you connect with an experience coaching from the client side. Pay attention to what your coach does, the questions they ask, and how you feel during the experience. You may even ask your coach to coach you on becoming a coach.
- Decide on your coaching niche —This could be relationships, time management, getting organized, life transitions, or financial matters. Whatever your passion and experience leads you to coach on, the field is open, just be specific.
- Marketing—You must love marketing. There are countless ways to market your coaching practice both in person and on the web. Many coaches sell programs on how to market your practice.
- Money—You probably will not make $100,000 in your first year. Even though most coaches charge between $100 and $500 an hour, it takes time to build a practice. There are many programs and products available online to help you grow your business.
By combining your unique personality and special talents with proper training and marketing you will be on your way into the rewarding world of life coaching.
Check out, So You Want to be a COACH. In this new e-book you will learn what it takes to become a coach and what it is like to be a coach. It is the truth about my journey into the world of coaching! Plus there are links to the best websites to get your coaching practice up and running!
To purchase your copy visit CoachRhonda.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
WOAMTEC
Just got back from lunch at the Daytona Beach chapter of WOAMTEC (Women on a Mission To Earn Commission.) What a wonderful opportunity to meet with other business women and network! Thank you, Inez Bracy, for inviting me! To learn more about WOAMTEC visit their website WOAMTEC.
The presenter at today's meeting was Lois Pollack who represents JBUG jewelry, an equisite line of custom made (in the USA!) jewelry that makes one think of David Yurman but at a fraction of the price! Check out their website at JBUG.
The presenter at today's meeting was Lois Pollack who represents JBUG jewelry, an equisite line of custom made (in the USA!) jewelry that makes one think of David Yurman but at a fraction of the price! Check out their website at JBUG.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
February Topic--Acceptance
When we have acceptance, we have understanding, tolerance, and open-mindedness. When we accept we release ourselves of disbelief, liberate our energy, acknowledge what is working and what isn't, and adapt to or make necessary changes. Acceptance frees our soul to soar.
"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference." Reinhold Niebuhr
"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference." Reinhold Niebuhr
Friday, February 13, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Come to the Winter Wholistic Health Fair
Saturday, February 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sunshine Park Mall in South Daytona, Florida.
Stop by and meet Rhonda at her table, plus Rhonda will present a mini-workshop on "The Nine Biggest Mistakes Women Make" at 3 p.m.
There will be prizes and giveaways throughout the day. Parking and admission are free.
Stop by and meet Rhonda at her table, plus Rhonda will present a mini-workshop on "The Nine Biggest Mistakes Women Make" at 3 p.m.
There will be prizes and giveaways throughout the day. Parking and admission are free.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Natural Awakenings Feb 2009 issue
I am so excited to have been quoted in an article in this month's local issue of Natural Awakenings magazine!
The article, "Fall in Love with Your Life" inspires us to to make small changes that will bring big rewards in our life. Changes include; developing an attitude of gratitude, honoring the body, learning to say no, starting here and now, and creating a circle of support.
You can read the full article at CoachRhonda.com
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Self-Discipline
I hate exercise, actually I don't know anyone who really enjoys it, do you? But the fact is it has great health benefits, we all know this. Even with this knowledge, it takes loads of self-discipline to start and continue an exercise regimen. We can all relate to the self-discipline required for exercise but how does discipline show up in other areas of our life?
Often times we base decisions in our life purely on our comfort level, lacking the discipline to continue once we start getting uncomfortable. This is true of diets, exercise, relationships, money management, careers, businesses, and in most all areas of our lives.
If you would like to boost your self-discipline try these steps:
1. Start small. This may be as simple as hanging your jacket in the closet each day instead of throwing it across the back of the sofa.
2. Get clear on your emotions regarding discipline. If you feel discipline requires conformance and you are a rebel at heart, your sub-conscious will be in direct opposition to your conscious intentions.
3. Stop procrastinating and postponing, do things you dislike first.
4. Think long term. Realize what you do today will affect your life in the future.
5. Find help. An accountability partner can cheer you own, remind you of the benefits, and motivate you when you want to give up!
Where is lack of self-discipline hindering your life? Most goals and intentions are not reached simply due to a lack of self-discipline. This year develop your discipline muscle, you'll be glad you did!
Often times we base decisions in our life purely on our comfort level, lacking the discipline to continue once we start getting uncomfortable. This is true of diets, exercise, relationships, money management, careers, businesses, and in most all areas of our lives.
If you would like to boost your self-discipline try these steps:
1. Start small. This may be as simple as hanging your jacket in the closet each day instead of throwing it across the back of the sofa.
2. Get clear on your emotions regarding discipline. If you feel discipline requires conformance and you are a rebel at heart, your sub-conscious will be in direct opposition to your conscious intentions.
3. Stop procrastinating and postponing, do things you dislike first.
4. Think long term. Realize what you do today will affect your life in the future.
5. Find help. An accountability partner can cheer you own, remind you of the benefits, and motivate you when you want to give up!
Where is lack of self-discipline hindering your life? Most goals and intentions are not reached simply due to a lack of self-discipline. This year develop your discipline muscle, you'll be glad you did!
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Time
Time...isn't it interesting that each day we all get the same amount deposited into our lives. Some use it as an investment, while others squander it away!
Monday, January 05, 2009
Letting Go
As I sit here on the first official work day of the New Year, I find myself exhaling. I am exhaling both the busyness of the holidays and the memories of the past year. I realize I must exhale in order to inhale. This makes me think of my life and how I must let go of things of the past in order to make room for things to come.
When I got divorced from my first husband I had to let go of not only him, but friendships we shared, a business we shared, and my idealistic, white-picket fence vision of love, marriage and family. It was extremely difficult to let go of 17 years of marriage and a lifetime of how I thought my life would be.
But just as the baby chick breaks out of the shell (and lets the shell go) we too must break out and let go of beliefs, things, thoughts, ideas, and sometime people.
What are you holding on to in your life that you need to let go of; old clothes that don't fit and even if they did they wouldn't be in style, your self-concept, relationships, past failures, past hurts, self-doubts, fears, limitations, expectations? The list goes on. When we hold on to things that no longer serve us, we in effect hold ourselves back. In other words, we don't hatch.
As I sit here I realize that I cannot hold the breath within, I must exhale, and then I must inhale and embrace what is, and what is to come.
Perhaps at the beginning of the year we should exhale that which holds us back as we inhale our intentions for the coming year.
When I got divorced from my first husband I had to let go of not only him, but friendships we shared, a business we shared, and my idealistic, white-picket fence vision of love, marriage and family. It was extremely difficult to let go of 17 years of marriage and a lifetime of how I thought my life would be.
But just as the baby chick breaks out of the shell (and lets the shell go) we too must break out and let go of beliefs, things, thoughts, ideas, and sometime people.
What are you holding on to in your life that you need to let go of; old clothes that don't fit and even if they did they wouldn't be in style, your self-concept, relationships, past failures, past hurts, self-doubts, fears, limitations, expectations? The list goes on. When we hold on to things that no longer serve us, we in effect hold ourselves back. In other words, we don't hatch.
As I sit here I realize that I cannot hold the breath within, I must exhale, and then I must inhale and embrace what is, and what is to come.
Perhaps at the beginning of the year we should exhale that which holds us back as we inhale our intentions for the coming year.
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