Archive for the ‘Entrepreneurial Mindset’ Category

My son is 14 years old is a handsome (of course),  fun loving, easy going teenager but he’s small in stature and often times mistaken as a middle schooler.  And worse when he’s with his brother, many believe he’s the younger instead of the older.

“I’m so tired of this.  I feel like people see me as this little kid who is just kinda hanging around.  I don’t feel like a teenager because I don’t look like everyone else, I don’t think like a lot of my other friends think. I am going to look back over my teenage years and feel like I completely missed out on so much fun.”

These were just a few sentiments my son shared with me that afternoon as tears strolled down his face.

As he spoke I heard the phrases -  I don’t feel like, I don’t look like, I am not, I am going to miss out…

And as I sat and listened to him intently I understood that what he was really saying was “I’m not enough!”

And boy did that strike a chord.

I find this issue of being enough is an underlying issue that we all face at different times in our lives. We all want to feel a sense of belonging, and sense of worthiness.  Sometimes we feel it and sometimes we don’t.

In business this issue of worthiness is a real one.  Because if you don’t feel worthy, you won’t feel empowered. And if you don’t feel empowered you won’t inspire. And if you’re not inspiring others, then you are not sharing your message and greatest gifts with the world!

If this is you today I declare today that you ARE enough.

I left my son with three thoughts, that also applies to you as a business owner:

• Feeling like you are enough starts on the inside and manifest on the outside; no one validates your worth but you.

• Start manifesting what you desire by celebrating who you are — all of it  (accomplishments, achievements, joys, mishaps, failures, and trials).  Don’t expect others to embrace or accept you for who you are,  when you’re not comfortable in your own skin.

• If you want to attract more friends (or clients), be more attractive (or client attractive) by exuding confidence.  No one wants to be around someone (or hire someone) who appears desperate or clingy.

Consider these four strategies to reaffirm your worth:

Find the right circle of influence.  Although there are times you feel good about who you are on the inside, your ego and conscious still needs reinforcements, reminders, and validation.

Who are your biggest fans?  Seek ongoing support and encouragement from those who lift you up instead of drag you down. This will undoubtedly be your base of support that will carry you through the life of your business.

Stop comparison despair.   There’s always going to be someone who is ahead of building their business or more successful than you — more money, more clients, more brand recognition, etc.  Get over it!   It’s a fact of life and business!

It’s important to aspire to be more.  But keep that desire in check so that it doesn’t become later develop into jealousy or manifest into a lack of self confidence in your abilities.

Instead use it as a motivator and fuel to keep your passion for what you love to do alive and take your business to new found levels of success.  Take note of where you are relative to when you first started.  Anticipate you will get to where you want go and stay the course.

Positive self talk. Nothing is more powerful than affirmations.  Take time to speak aloud and into existence who you are, who you are becoming, what is and what will be. And then seal the deal with unshakeable faith and believe that all things are possible.

Take action. It’s hard to celebrate wins if you aren’t taking action on your most important goals.  Without it, you cannot measure success or create new benchmarks to move to the next level.

Fear of failure is one of the reasons you are getting in your own way.  Use the tips above to combat fear and stop it dead in its tracks from achieving all that you desire for your life and business.

Sometimes as a business start up you don’t know what you don’t know.  As a result it may be difficult to take the next step.

It’s helpful when you are among a network or community of likeminded individuals to share and exchange ideas.  It’s also imperative to enlist mentors and invest in coaches and consultants who can give you the perspective you may be missing.

Often times, the cost of such services are prohibitive for new solopreneurs…until today.

You can hire your own team of business consultants to provide the guidance and perspective you are probably seeking for a little less than $2/day.  You may be wondering how.  Click here to learn more.

A few weeks ago my 70 year old aunt graduated from college with her bachelors degree in psychology!

Can you believe it?  70 years old – and she did it!

A long time ago she decided that she was going to pursue her dream of earning her degree – and persist no matter what.  Even in the face of life’s detours, dead ends and disappointments, she pushed forward and she did it.

What a blessing!

My auntie is an inspiration.  She reaffirmed first and foremost that with God by your side,  you cannot fail.  She demonstrated that even at the age of 70 anything is possible –  if you believe.  And with the right mindset, conviction beyond measure, and commitment to the thing you desire most – the dream — you can win!

The same applies to successful business ownership.

Perhaps today you feel like throwing in the towel and giving up on your dream of owning a business.  Or maybe life has you feeling weighted down a bit, and exhausted from all the heavy lifting you’ve been doing lately.

If this is you, I encourage you to exhale.  And remember this story about my auntie.  If my 70 year old aunt can stay true to her dream and never give up,  so can you!

Take some time to return to center and refocus on your reason why — your motivation for starting along this new business venture in the first place. Return there and recommit to the journey.

Here’s a little boost…if you are still lost and confused about how to get your new business up and running the right way, obtain a copy of my free business start up ecourse.  Visit www.bizstartupminicourse.com today!

It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. At least that’s what many of us have been taught in a lifetime.

“Going the distance” is fundamental to living purpose driven success…but at times tough to do.

As a new solopreneur, there is so much to know and learn within a relatively short span of time.

It amazes me how different the business start up experience can be from person to person.  Some make consistent strides keeping one foot in front of the other, hit critical benchmarks, and exceed their own expectations.  Others completely miss the mark, never get any tread going, and creep along  s-l-o-w-l-y!

What’s the difference between the two?  Why do some solopreneurs successfully accelerate their business building pursuits while others struggle?

There are five distinct elements of achieving “the success factor :”

Focus & Taking Action.  ”Just do it ” is a simple concept, but for so many women leading multi tasking lifestlyes, this can seem insurmountable.  Focus is key.

Being scattered in too many places is exhausting. Choose one thing to focus at a time,  and continue with it until you achieve what you set forth.  Be careful not to take in the whole picture all at once; instead break things down into manageable pieces until you reach your target.

Additionally, stop  ”getting ready to get ready.”  You can have the best intentions in mind but in order to implement what you set out to do, take action. Discipline yourself  to stick with your primary aim until completion.   Do this by scheduling your most important tasks and priorities and saying no to all the rest.  Your ability to finish what you start with optimal results,  will be your biggest motivator to stay the course and maintain a sense of satisfaction with your business.

Investing money. Many new solopreneurs are afraid to invest money toward their business in the beginning because they aren’t making much.  But the cost of not knowing the essentials of business development hinders more than helps your long term growth.  Think about it — in your career you advanced and grew professionally because you invested money, time, and energy developing new skills.

Entrepreneurship is no different.

Get used to investing in learning how to BE and become a successful entrepreneur.  Typically, business ownership isn’t an intuitive process; it’s a skill that must be learned and acquired.  When you invest money to gain perspective and knowledge, you will get where you want to be much faster than relying soley on free information.  Additionally it is imperative to provide your business with the resources and tools it needs to run it’s best and produce optimal results.

“Can do” mindset. Carry your “can do attitude” with you always and be unstoppable! You’ve answered the call to business ownership, now walk upright!

Trust that you have something of value to offer others.  Your thoughts about what you believe is possible are powerful. If deep inside you don’t think you’re smart enough,  don’t know enough, or aren’t good enough, you ruin your ability to enter the “big league” and will remain small because of it.

Sometimes new solopreneurs fool themselves into thinking that they are working on the business by investing in countless coaching programs, and attending seminar after seminar.  But at some point in time you have to implement what you’ve learned — otherwise, what you have on your hands is an expensive hobby!

Being mentored.  All the top gurus in the field have coaches or mentors leading them every step of the way. These individuals have done what you are trying to accomplish and understand where you’re headed.  They provide the highest level of guidance that is paramount to opening up new perspectives and approaches to your business, and pushing you to be and become MORE!

To get where you want to be more quickly and easily, do  the same. It’s a necessary part of investing in yourself and business.

Partnering & aligning with others. Seek opportunities to forge connections early and often during your journey. Your primary goal as you pursue  joint venture partnerships is to establish a long lasting relationship.  Start by making simple connections with ‘high achiever types” and movers and shakers. Focus initially on how you can be of service and give to the relationship rather than what you can take from it.

When others are promoting you, you can reach your goals faster without working so hard, as well as get your name and brand in the face of new and far reaching audiences.

“Success by association,”  is a powerful way to grow your business by leaps and bounds.

If you have been unable to make any significant headway with moving your business forward, you may be lacking in at least one of the categories noted above. It’s tough to travel along unchartered territory without a trusted resource to point you to the “pathway of least resistance. ”

Join us next week for a great webniar, Advice You Can Count On Right In Your Back Pocket, Tuesday, Feb. 15, 9-10pm EST to learn how to tap into the expertise and knowledge of experts who can accompany you along your journey every step of the way, and get you to where you want to be in the shortest time possible —  from start up to launch and beyond.

As one year ends and another begins, I am filled with mixed emotions –  a bit of nostalgia, but mostly sheer excitement.    This is the case because positive change is on the horizon!

The fact of the matter is nothing in the universe stays exactly the same. There is always some element of movement that is going on the atmosphere to make the world go round.

The same must be the case for you personally.   You are a dynamic, powerful being who is meant to evolve over time.  So if 6mos to 1 year from now you are standing where you started on the first day of this year, you will have essentially allowed a part of you to die within. 

What I mean by this is that you didn’t be and become more of who you are uniquely designed to be, and as a result a part of you didn’t live.  Your biggest goals, hopes, and dreams did not come to pass.  You were merely in existence but you were not fully ALIVE!  

In 2011, if you are looking for powerful change in your personal life and business, you have to go beyond existing and become more fully present. 

Everything that you do day-to-day must be more purposeful.  Let’s say good bye to  ”going through the motions” and say hello to being more laser focused and success driven in all that you do. 

For this to happen, you must seek transformation from the inside out in every aspect of your life.   Remember as solopreneur you are the soul of your business. Without you, your business would not exist.  So any success you achieve is predicated by your desire to step more into your element of greatness.   This deeply rooted desire must start  from within in order for it to manifest profoundly on the outside.

I am wondering what transformational change you are seeking this year…  

What internal/mind shifts do you need to make NOW in order for 2011 to be your best?

In what ways are you thinking about your business differently to get optimal results more quickly?

How do you need to show up in the world in a new way to bring forth more meaningful personal and business relationships?

What new words or phrases will describe 2011 this time next year?

Knowing what to do is easier said than done…making it happen is what really counts!

Click here and listen to 5 quick strategies to facilitate powerful transformational shifts from within throughout 2011.

Let’s make 2011  your year of success, prosperity and purpose and really LIVE!!

Although one of the first steps to becoming an entrepreneur is locating a profitable business idea, the true foundation of entrepreneurial success rests within your mindset.

A good idea can take you only so far. However, true determination to stop at nothing to achieve your goals can carry you through to the finish line. You have hundreds – if not thousands – of competitors in your field. Many of them sell similiar products or services as you. Yet, one business may be raking in huge monthly revenue, while the other can barely get off the ground.

So, what separates these two businesses?  Again, it’s the difference in mindset of the entrepreneurs behind the ventures.

Let’s examine the distinctions between the success of those who thrive even in a sluggish economy and others who fold:

Successful Womanpreneur Mindset

- Always reaches higher and focuses on the up-sell. She knows how to turn $25 into $100.

- Has an elevator speech prepared and will recite it to anyone who’s willing to listen.

-Values the power of marketing and employs proven marketing tactics.

- Markets her business whether business is booming or in a lull.

- Believes in her ability to achieve the best and constantly pushes herself beyond her comfort zone for the greater good of her business.

- Believes that customer service is just as important as promotion and providing quality products.

- Problem solves.

- She knows how to run a tight ship in order to keep revenue up and overhead down.

- Values and trusts her intuition over the advice of another.

- She truly understands what’s best for her business.

- She’s always quickly moving on to the next task that must be done to improve her business.

- Thrives under pressure. She’s always attentive and alert.

- Implements sound ideas into her existing business plan in order to increase revenue, customer service, and promotion.

Unsuccessful Womanpreneur Mindset

- Just “good enough” is her mantra.

- She believes that a dollar in revenue is better than no revenue at all.

- She is afraid to toot her own horn and often downplays the complexity of her business.

- Employs marketing tactics only when business is slow. She’s all about cutting corners, and when business is booming, marketing expenses seem unnecessary.

- Allows her personal low self-esteem to translate into her business leadership. Because of this, her marketing, networking, public perception, and revenue take a hit.

- Customer service is an afterthought. She takes personal offense to most customer complaints.

- Is a problem solver only when it comes to menial issues, but she cracks under pressure when the hard times come knocking.

- Ignores her intuition and runs to all the wrong people for advice before taking action.

- May thrive under pressure, but it’s her fear that keeps her going rather than her optimism.

- Lets her ideas lie dormant until her business is bringing in more money.

Which of these characteristics describe you? What else would you add to this list?

Ladies, as you can see, a heightened mindset is foundational for attaining higher profits and long term sustainable success.

The time is now!   Change your mind.  Change your thoughts.  Change your behavior.  Take action.  Prosper!

Join us for the Countdown to Prosperity 2011 Teleclass to find out what action steps you need to take to break the mold and make 2011 your best.

I am currently reading the book,”The Power To Prosper:  21 Days to Financial Freedom,” by Michele Singletary.  I am enjoying this book because it outlines in practical terms how to uncover hidden monies to repurpose for your highest good, break your overspending habits, handle money with your spouse, get rid of debt, save for your future, and finally…stop worrying about money.

The financial fast invites you to take a faith walk with the Divine to confront and correct the poor money mindset, choices, and habits that have blocked you from manifesting more abundance and prosperity in your life.   It is a process that pushes you to be a better steward of the financial blessings extended to you, so that you can live a life of greater purpose and freedom, instead of financial bondage and duress.

I am inviting each of you to join me in a 21 day money fast BEFORE Black Friday.

Yes, tomorrow will be exactly 21 days before one of the biggest shopping days of the calendar year.  By taking some time to cleanse your thinking about money (e.g. what is represent in your life, how you see money, how you manage finances, etc), it just might reframe your spending choices during this holiday period…for the better. 

Are you ready for the challenge? 

You may be thinking, “How in the world is this relevant to me as a solopreneur.”Simply put, the way that you live personally will be reflected in your business as well.  The reason for this is because your solo business is an extension of you – who you are, what you value, what you believe, who you are becoming.

So if you struggle to manage finances in your personal life, the same will probably be the case in your business.  Poor money management can lead to insufficient cash flow which ultimately leads to business failure.

The bottom line:  if your interaction with money is  fundamentally sound,  financial prosperity will manifest itself in greater abundance in all aspects of your life. 

However, in order to step into real prosperity you must also develop self discipline and a keen self awareness so that you can guard against vulnerable places in managing your finances and formulate healthier money habits. 

The author coveres the following topics to move you from where you are to where you want to be in improving your relationship with money:

Day 1:  21 Days to Financial Freedom (The Beginning of a Journey)
Day 2:  A Promise of Prosperity
Day 3:  God’s Generosity
Day 4:  Tithing Today
Day 5:  The Evils of Entitlement
Day 6:  Coveting Vs. Contentment
Day 7:  The Providence of Preparation
Day 8:  The Salvation of Saving
Day 9:  Diversification Delivers
Day 10:  Matrimonial Money
Day 11:  The Impact of an Inheritance
Day 12:  The Devil Is in the Debt
Day 13:  The Curse of Credit
Day 14:  The Stupidity of Surety
Day 15:  Greed Will Not Bring Grace
Day 16:  Financial Fornification
Day 17:  Perpetual Peace
Day 18:  Broken Bonds
Day 19:  Strengthen Stewardship
Day 20:  Relationships Rescued
Day 21:  Financial Freedom

Each of these topics have a corresponding principle and pledge associated.  I will be sharing this information with my Facebook fans; you are welcome to uncover this information as well.    If you want to follow along these next 21 days, become a FAN now. http://bit.ly/successtransitions

I wish you multiplied success, prosperity and blessings.

I just came across a blog post entitled, 5 Ways to Spot a Great Product.  The author Charlie Page, CEO of Directory of Ezines, outlined 7 questions to ask yourself when deciding whether to purchase an information product:

-Do I need this right now?
-Do I already own something similar that will do the job?
-Is the person selling this product credible?
-Will I use this? (In other words, will I take the time
to learn the system so I can profit from it?)
-Are there others who use and like this product? (e.g.
are there testimonials)
-Am I protected if this does not work out?
-Is there any reason to NOT buy this right now?

One of the concepts discussed in my new ebook discusses the importance of investing in your business for personal development and long term sustainability and success.  

The questions above serve as a nice checklist to help you figure out whether a purchase will be a valuable one and beneficial in the long run. 

You may be sitting on the fence about whether to take advantage of my birthday bash sale….use the checklist above to help you simply say YES!!

Remember the sale ends Tuesday 12 noon EST.  Don’t miss out on the sale price and 2 extra bonuses:  2 special reports – 30 Minutes a Day P.R.O.M.O Blog & 21 Ways to Recycle Content & Make More Money

These two special reports as available with the ebook purchase and exclusive to my birthday bash sale.  http://bit.ly/9jW642

Once the sale ends, so will these 2 additional bonuses (the other 4 standard bonuses will remain in tact)

However, you can get more for less now!  Take advantage of this cost saving unique opportunity today!  Visit  http://bit.ly/9jW642

If you have any questions about the ebook or need additional help with figuring out whether this purchase is really for you,  please email me at zenobia@successtransitions.com.

Have a great weekend!

One of the barriers that stops many women entrepreneurs dead in their tracks from getting off the ground running, and declaring to the world, “We’re open for business” is fear.

-Fear of not being taken seriously.

-Fear of not appearing competent.

-Fear of what others may think or feel about them.

-Fear of failure.

Fear can be paralyzing to say the least, and if gone unchecked will dimish any hopes of who you are or who you are becoming as an entrepreneur.

Taking small steps to overcome the “fear factor” is necessary to stay the course:

1. Simply acknowledge your fear.  Write them down and get it these negative thoughts out of your head.

2. Envision what life would look and feel like without it’s existence…Paint a vivid picture of  life without limitations…now, tell me how does that feels?

3. Reframe how you see fear.  We’ve heard time and time again:  fear=false evidence appearing real. But let’s go beyond that. What if you saw fear as an opportunity for personal growth, and invitation for increased faith and reliance on Divine power to pull through?  Empower yourself by trusting and believing that whatever happens you can handle it!

4. Face fear head on. That’s right!  Put on the boxing gloves and commit to going the whole 12 rounds. But in order to get to round 12 you must start at round 1. Whatever it is that holds you back from becoming, take one small step forward — and then another, and another,  and watch your confidence soar and fear vanish!

Overcoming fear is only one of the steps to developing an incredible  mindset for sustainable long term success.  But there’s more. 

Come find out:

Free teleclass: 5 Strategies For How To Launch While You Work, August 31, 9:00-10:00pm EST