Wars, riots, evil men doing evil things, natural disasters, famine, pestilence, business closures, bankruptcies, and home foreclosures: Jesus, our Savior, tells us these will happen. They have happened before and will again. Jesus encourages: “Fear not!” and, “I am with you even to the end of the age.”
Some say all of these events are precursors to when Jesus, our Lord, returns to rule the earth. Before Jesus returns an evil man through deceit will rule the world and cause all to receive a mark in order to buy and sell anything. Many will be persecuted and martyred. Jesus says there will be a shout and the sound of a trumpet when He returns. We haven’t heard the trumpet, so these are not the end times.
Jesus, our Teacher, warns times will become so dark no one can work. But those times are not now.
So what do we do? We still have light, freedom and faith. We must take advantage of the light and freedom and put action to our faith! Others have prospered through adversity in the past, we can as well.
May our Creator and Savior grant us faith with peace in these troubling times!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Packing More into Your Suitcase
Our days are identical suitcases--all the same size--but some people pack more into them than others.
Most people think of John Wesley as a powerful preacher, and indeed, he was. What many people do not know, however, is how prolific he was. He averaged three sermons a day for fifty-four years, preaching a total of more than 44,000 times in his life. In doing this, he traveled by horseback and carriage more than 200,000 miles--about 5,000 miles a year.
For even a very productive man, that would seem to be a full time effort. Still, John Wesley found time to write and edit. His published words include a four-volume commentary on the entire Bible, a five volume work on natural philosophy, a four-volume work on church history, and a dictionary of the English language. He also wrote histories of England and Rome, grammars on the Hebrew, Latin, Greek, French, and English languages, three works on medicine, six volumes of church music, seven volumes of sermons and controversial papers, and he edited a library of fifty volumes known as "The Christian Library."
He habitually rose at 4 a.m. and retired at 10 p.m. allowing only brief periods for meals. Yet he declared, "I have more hours of private retirement than any man in England."
Taken from God's Little Devotional Book for Leaders.I want to encourage you to take time to work on your presentation.
Listen to some of the pod casts from Zig Ziglar. Tape your voice. Listen to how you are communicating. This will take time. Will it be worth it? YES!
Thank to Donna for this contribution!
Most people think of John Wesley as a powerful preacher, and indeed, he was. What many people do not know, however, is how prolific he was. He averaged three sermons a day for fifty-four years, preaching a total of more than 44,000 times in his life. In doing this, he traveled by horseback and carriage more than 200,000 miles--about 5,000 miles a year.
For even a very productive man, that would seem to be a full time effort. Still, John Wesley found time to write and edit. His published words include a four-volume commentary on the entire Bible, a five volume work on natural philosophy, a four-volume work on church history, and a dictionary of the English language. He also wrote histories of England and Rome, grammars on the Hebrew, Latin, Greek, French, and English languages, three works on medicine, six volumes of church music, seven volumes of sermons and controversial papers, and he edited a library of fifty volumes known as "The Christian Library."
He habitually rose at 4 a.m. and retired at 10 p.m. allowing only brief periods for meals. Yet he declared, "I have more hours of private retirement than any man in England."
Taken from God's Little Devotional Book for Leaders.I want to encourage you to take time to work on your presentation.
Listen to some of the pod casts from Zig Ziglar. Tape your voice. Listen to how you are communicating. This will take time. Will it be worth it? YES!
Thank to Donna for this contribution!
Zig Ziglar on Goal Setting
Donna found this link on You-Tube that she wanted to share. I have not viewed it, but if it is from Zig Ziglar, I know it is good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae-VJ_lauCw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae-VJ_lauCw
Monday, April 27, 2009
In Faith, Trust
Here are a few promises associated with trust in the Lord:
- Ps. 37:4-5 – Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.
- Ps. 84:12 – O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You!
- Pr. 28:25 – he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered.
Trust is “assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something.”
- First we trust God’s character, ability, strength and truth as revealed in His word.
- Second we trust God has led us to a business that is trustworthy: has upright character and ability to be used by God, has strength and is founded on true principles and products.
When our faith is supplemented with trust that the Lord wants to bless and prosper us, how can we not take action and move forward in our life, our families, our churches, our communities and our business. In fact, sitting and doing nothing prevents God from blessing and prospering us.
May our Creator and Savior bless and prosper us as we act in faith and trust.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Follow the Guide
Psalm 32:8-I will instruct you & teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.
As I pondered on this verse, I got a picture of a road map and the thought-“Which way to go-what direction?
Our business gives us the road map-basic rules for success-when we do the Seven Critical Business-Building Activities that they lay out to business builders.
- Keep building your contact list
- Set appointments
- Make presentations
- Hold 48 hour follow up meetings
- Celebrate successes
- Always be involved with Fast Track
- Attend all Melaleuca meetings
When a person becomes a Christian and starts his walk with God, he needs to be shown some basic things so he will be able to grow into a mature person. Just as a Christian needs to learn basic things, we in business do too. We learn these steps as we start our businesses - the seven critical business-building activities.
Sometimes we forget to do them. Then we realize that we are not having successes or are in a ‘flat spot’ and can’t seem to move forward. It is then that we need to be reminded to go ‘back to basics’.
We all need to assess where we are at. Are we doing something wrong? Are we following these 7 critical business-building activities? Evaluating where you are at is very important so you can make the necessary steps to move forward. We keep persevering. We need to keep cheering each other on as a team.
Thanks to Daryl for this contribution!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Help Others Solve Their Problems
Seek Him above all else...
Sometimes when we approach others, we get a negative reaction that causes us to hesitate with our business. I want to encourage you to be diligent and help others solve their problems.
Zig Ziglar said, "You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want."
Here is a piece of advice that is worth a king's crown: To hold your head high, hold your overhead down.
Early in his career as a master salesman, Victor Kiam worked for Playtex, selling girdles and bras in Mississippi. One day, when he arrived at a small shop, he found the owner sweeping the floor. Kiam introduced himself, extended his hand , and paused. He was met with silence. Undaunted he opened his sample case and began to make his pitch. Suddenly, the store owner flew into a rage and he began sweeping Kiam out of his store. Within moments, Kiam found himseelf flat on his back, dust swirling around him. Rather than fight back, Kiam was determined to find out why this man was so upset with him. He talked with other sales reps and eventually got to the root of the problem. His predecessor had done too good a job, causing this man to become so overstocked with merchandise that too much of the man's capital was tied up in inventory. Kiam immediately arranged for one of his larger accounts to purchase the man's excess inventory at cost. Kiam not only received a very warm greeting the next time he showed up with his sample case, but he made a friend.
One of the best ways to build any relationship is to help another person solve their problem.
Taken from God's Little Devotional Book for Leaders
Our thanks go to Donna for this Post!
Sometimes when we approach others, we get a negative reaction that causes us to hesitate with our business. I want to encourage you to be diligent and help others solve their problems.
Zig Ziglar said, "You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want."
"The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.
All day long he craves and craves,
but the righteous gives and does not hold back."
Prov. 21:25,26
"Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man;
he who loves wine and oil will not be rich."
Prov. 21:17
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,
but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty."
Prov. 21:5
Here is a piece of advice that is worth a king's crown: To hold your head high, hold your overhead down.
Early in his career as a master salesman, Victor Kiam worked for Playtex, selling girdles and bras in Mississippi. One day, when he arrived at a small shop, he found the owner sweeping the floor. Kiam introduced himself, extended his hand , and paused. He was met with silence. Undaunted he opened his sample case and began to make his pitch. Suddenly, the store owner flew into a rage and he began sweeping Kiam out of his store. Within moments, Kiam found himseelf flat on his back, dust swirling around him. Rather than fight back, Kiam was determined to find out why this man was so upset with him. He talked with other sales reps and eventually got to the root of the problem. His predecessor had done too good a job, causing this man to become so overstocked with merchandise that too much of the man's capital was tied up in inventory. Kiam immediately arranged for one of his larger accounts to purchase the man's excess inventory at cost. Kiam not only received a very warm greeting the next time he showed up with his sample case, but he made a friend.
One of the best ways to build any relationship is to help another person solve their problem.
Taken from God's Little Devotional Book for Leaders
Our thanks go to Donna for this Post!
Building Faith by Persistence
Faith is easy with immediate results. What if success is delayed even after weeks or years of trying? Unmet expectations build doubts that deter our faith. We overcome these unmet expectations through persistence.
Behavior scientists tell the story of the walleye. A walleye placed in a fish tank will swim around the whole tank. If a glass wall is placed in the middle of the tank and food on the other side of the glass wall, the walleye will try to get the food. Of course, it will bump into the glass wall. After two or three attempts to get the food, the walleye will stop. The scientist can remove the glass wall but, sad to say, the walleye will never again try to go to the other side.
A Bible parable tells of a widow who gets what she needs from an evil judge by persistence. It encourages us to knock and the door will be opened. The Greek word we translate as “knock” really means “keep on knocking” or to be persistent.
Are we the walleye or the persistent widow?
May our Creator and Savior grant us persistence to keep going not matter what happened last time.
Behavior scientists tell the story of the walleye. A walleye placed in a fish tank will swim around the whole tank. If a glass wall is placed in the middle of the tank and food on the other side of the glass wall, the walleye will try to get the food. Of course, it will bump into the glass wall. After two or three attempts to get the food, the walleye will stop. The scientist can remove the glass wall but, sad to say, the walleye will never again try to go to the other side.
A Bible parable tells of a widow who gets what she needs from an evil judge by persistence. It encourages us to knock and the door will be opened. The Greek word we translate as “knock” really means “keep on knocking” or to be persistent.
Are we the walleye or the persistent widow?
May our Creator and Savior grant us persistence to keep going not matter what happened last time.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Are We Missing a Susan Boyle?
The inspiration for this came when I read my niece’s Blog called “Musings of a Malcontent.”
For the past week or so, the media has been making a big deal about the Scottish singer Susan Boyle. The story line talks about her less than appealing appearance but extols her amazing singing and personality. It’s almost as if it is inconceivable that amazing talent can exist in a “plain” package.
In scriptures we are warned not to make snap judgments about people based on their appearance: whether they look poor or prosperous, powerful or puny. The Lord looks upon the heart of a person rather than the outward appearance. We are encouraged to do likewise.
Are we missing any Susan Boyle’s when we make our contact lists and our approaches? Are we looking past any Susan Boyle’s when we make our presentations? It’s too bad really: too bad for the Susan Boyle we missed and too bad for us!
May our Creator and Savior give us eyes that are blind to the visible flaws while yet able to see the invisible beauty in everyone around us.
For the past week or so, the media has been making a big deal about the Scottish singer Susan Boyle. The story line talks about her less than appealing appearance but extols her amazing singing and personality. It’s almost as if it is inconceivable that amazing talent can exist in a “plain” package.
In scriptures we are warned not to make snap judgments about people based on their appearance: whether they look poor or prosperous, powerful or puny. The Lord looks upon the heart of a person rather than the outward appearance. We are encouraged to do likewise.
Are we missing any Susan Boyle’s when we make our contact lists and our approaches? Are we looking past any Susan Boyle’s when we make our presentations? It’s too bad really: too bad for the Susan Boyle we missed and too bad for us!
May our Creator and Savior give us eyes that are blind to the visible flaws while yet able to see the invisible beauty in everyone around us.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Unblocking Our Faith with Focus
I believe the main block to faith is doubt. We unblock our faith by focus.
According to Webster’s Dictionary doubt is uncertainty of belief or opinion that often interferes with decision-making (or action). Some may claim their doubt is healthy skepticism. Whether doubt or healthy skepticism, it still interferes with taking action!
Circumstances and criticisms cause doubt. What do I mean by that? According to the Bible, Peter a mere man, walked on water (an act of faith). When he started looking at the waves (circumstances) he began to have doubt and sink. Suppose we loved to give roses to people, but an influential person said they were weeds (criticism)? Would we start to have doubt, would we still be able to share roses with others?
We have circumstances and criticisms bombarding us and our business daily. To overcome doubt we focus on achieving our "why" and on our mission of helping people reach their goals. We become so focused that many around us begin to recognize (or criticize) us for our focus, or faith. We overcome by staying focused on the good and true and rejecting distracting circumstances and criticisms.
May our Creator and Savior grant us laser-like focus.
According to Webster’s Dictionary doubt is uncertainty of belief or opinion that often interferes with decision-making (or action). Some may claim their doubt is healthy skepticism. Whether doubt or healthy skepticism, it still interferes with taking action!
Circumstances and criticisms cause doubt. What do I mean by that? According to the Bible, Peter a mere man, walked on water (an act of faith). When he started looking at the waves (circumstances) he began to have doubt and sink. Suppose we loved to give roses to people, but an influential person said they were weeds (criticism)? Would we start to have doubt, would we still be able to share roses with others?
We have circumstances and criticisms bombarding us and our business daily. To overcome doubt we focus on achieving our "why" and on our mission of helping people reach their goals. We become so focused that many around us begin to recognize (or criticize) us for our focus, or faith. We overcome by staying focused on the good and true and rejecting distracting circumstances and criticisms.
May our Creator and Savior grant us laser-like focus.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Gusto with Skill = Success
Colossians 3:23-Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.
2 Timothy 2:15—Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed.
For Kathi, Ann, Pat, Donna, Daryl, Sandra
Succeeding On The Job-Adapted from The Word For You Today
Nothing contributes more to job success than skillfulness. Skilled workers excel by study, practice and hard work. Such people are always ‘in demand’. Skillfulness isn’t genetic-you don’t inherit it, you work for it. You burn the midnight oil, stretch your limits etc. Watch a skilled craftsman. Your esteem rises at their attention to details, refusal to cut corners, patience, dedication, and pride in the finished product. They inspire confidence, respect, and trust. There’s no more practical demonstration of genuine Christianity than being a skilled worker. When they speak, people listen. If you doubt that, just try sharing your faith with those who see you being dishonest, shoddy and careless.
Whatever your ‘work’, Do it in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. We should be ‘raising the bar’ because we’re Christ’s representatives. We should set the industry standard for excellence. Knowing that we follow Christ should give to others that we work with, the confidence that they’ll get our best.
As an extension of our Christianity, we need to represent Melaleuca in the right way too-not doing a shoddy, careless job, not cutting corners, not being dishonest or overstating something, but be individuals that know our products, our compensation plan, and can trouble shoot and zero in on people’s needs to help them. It needs to be about ‘them’ not about ‘us’. We need to continue going to training meetings, listen to business CD’s. etc. We need to do things the right way. We need to inspire people to have confidence, respect and trust in us and then they will have no trouble coming along with us and Melaleuca.
Prayer: Lord, help all of us on this fast track team to continue to study to show ourselves approved in Melaleuca so we can have the confidence we need to push forward. All of us have weak areas we need to clear up and work on to make us all more effective. Bring us the help we each need. We desire your direction and help. Thank you for the accountability in this group. You are doing a work in all of us. Give us the breakthroughs we need, Lord. Help us to be skilled in Melaleuca in all the important areas, to have productive closings, to develop interactive skills in presenting. Help us to study and learn what we need to learn,--to do our part so you can do your part. Amen.
Thanks to Sandy for this contribution!
2 Timothy 2:15—Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed.
For Kathi, Ann, Pat, Donna, Daryl, Sandra
Succeeding On The Job-Adapted from The Word For You Today
Nothing contributes more to job success than skillfulness. Skilled workers excel by study, practice and hard work. Such people are always ‘in demand’. Skillfulness isn’t genetic-you don’t inherit it, you work for it. You burn the midnight oil, stretch your limits etc. Watch a skilled craftsman. Your esteem rises at their attention to details, refusal to cut corners, patience, dedication, and pride in the finished product. They inspire confidence, respect, and trust. There’s no more practical demonstration of genuine Christianity than being a skilled worker. When they speak, people listen. If you doubt that, just try sharing your faith with those who see you being dishonest, shoddy and careless.
Whatever your ‘work’, Do it in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. We should be ‘raising the bar’ because we’re Christ’s representatives. We should set the industry standard for excellence. Knowing that we follow Christ should give to others that we work with, the confidence that they’ll get our best.
As an extension of our Christianity, we need to represent Melaleuca in the right way too-not doing a shoddy, careless job, not cutting corners, not being dishonest or overstating something, but be individuals that know our products, our compensation plan, and can trouble shoot and zero in on people’s needs to help them. It needs to be about ‘them’ not about ‘us’. We need to continue going to training meetings, listen to business CD’s. etc. We need to do things the right way. We need to inspire people to have confidence, respect and trust in us and then they will have no trouble coming along with us and Melaleuca.
Prayer: Lord, help all of us on this fast track team to continue to study to show ourselves approved in Melaleuca so we can have the confidence we need to push forward. All of us have weak areas we need to clear up and work on to make us all more effective. Bring us the help we each need. We desire your direction and help. Thank you for the accountability in this group. You are doing a work in all of us. Give us the breakthroughs we need, Lord. Help us to be skilled in Melaleuca in all the important areas, to have productive closings, to develop interactive skills in presenting. Help us to study and learn what we need to learn,--to do our part so you can do your part. Amen.
Thanks to Sandy for this contribution!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The Jim Cathcart Story...
Dear Kathi,
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to hear Jim Cathcart speak to a corporate audience. Jim is a good friend, and a great speaker. He told the story of how listening to a radio program over 25 years ago changed his life forever, and with his permission I'd like to share it with you.
In 1972, Jim was working at the Little Rock, Arkansas, Housing Authority making $525 a month, with a new wife and baby at home, no college degree, no past successes, and not much hope for the foreseeable future.
One morning, he was sitting in his office listening to the radio, to a program called "Our Changing World" by Earl Nightingale, who was known as "the Dean of Personal Development." That day, Nightingale, in his booming voice, said something that would change Jim's life forever: "If you will spend an extra hour each day of study in your chosen field, you will be a national expert in that field in five years or less."
Jim was stunned, but the more he thought about it the more it made sense. Although he had never given a speech, he had always wanted to help people grow in areas of personal development motivation. He began his quest to put Nightingale's theory to the test by reading books and listening to tapes whenever he could. He also started exercising and joined a self-improvement study group. He persisted through weeks of temptations to quit, just by doing a little more each day to further his goal. Within six months he had learned more than he had in his few years of college, and he began to believe he could turn his goal of becoming a motivational speaker into reality. All the hard work, the discipline, and study paid off. Jim now has delivered more than 2,500 speeches worldwide and has won every major award in the speaking industry.
Just like companies have market value, so do people. In the simplest terms, your market value increases by knowing and doing more. You see, Jim really understood one of my favorite laws in life...you cannot get what you've never had unless you're willing to do what you've never done.
He understood the power of 212° commitment.
You may be thinking...What is 212° commitment?
Well, here's a law of science that could change your life...
Founder, Simple Truths
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to hear Jim Cathcart speak to a corporate audience. Jim is a good friend, and a great speaker. He told the story of how listening to a radio program over 25 years ago changed his life forever, and with his permission I'd like to share it with you.
In 1972, Jim was working at the Little Rock, Arkansas, Housing Authority making $525 a month, with a new wife and baby at home, no college degree, no past successes, and not much hope for the foreseeable future.
One morning, he was sitting in his office listening to the radio, to a program called "Our Changing World" by Earl Nightingale, who was known as "the Dean of Personal Development." That day, Nightingale, in his booming voice, said something that would change Jim's life forever: "If you will spend an extra hour each day of study in your chosen field, you will be a national expert in that field in five years or less."
Jim was stunned, but the more he thought about it the more it made sense. Although he had never given a speech, he had always wanted to help people grow in areas of personal development motivation. He began his quest to put Nightingale's theory to the test by reading books and listening to tapes whenever he could. He also started exercising and joined a self-improvement study group. He persisted through weeks of temptations to quit, just by doing a little more each day to further his goal. Within six months he had learned more than he had in his few years of college, and he began to believe he could turn his goal of becoming a motivational speaker into reality. All the hard work, the discipline, and study paid off. Jim now has delivered more than 2,500 speeches worldwide and has won every major award in the speaking industry.
Just like companies have market value, so do people. In the simplest terms, your market value increases by knowing and doing more. You see, Jim really understood one of my favorite laws in life...you cannot get what you've never had unless you're willing to do what you've never done.
He understood the power of 212° commitment.
You may be thinking...What is 212° commitment?
Well, here's a law of science that could change your life...
- At 211 degrees, water is hot.
- At 212 degrees, it boils.
- And with boiling water comes steam.
- And steam can power a locomotive.
- The one extra degree makes all the difference.
And so many times in business and in life, it's that one extra degree of effort that separates the good from the great.
That's what 212°...The Extra Degree is all about. The little book that I co-authored with Sam Parker is filled with great stories, great quotes and great graphics that will bring the 212° concept to life for you personally, or for your team. There are many lessons to be learned about...212° service, 212° attitude, 212° leadership, 212° perseverance, 212°commitment, 212° kindness, 212° focus and many others.
To watch our 3 minute 212° movie or to find out how to receive a free autographed copy*, just click here.
Note: This offer expires April 21, 2009.
Live with Passion,
Mac AndersonFounder, Simple Truths
Faith plus Action
You have heard “faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains.” You may also have heard “faith without works (or action) is dead.” Do these contradict each other? Definitely not!
Remember my weight loss story? In 2008 I was ready to lose weight. I talked about, thought about it, and had faith that I could. At the end of the year I had lots of excuses but not one pound lost. I was mired in wishful thinking which by itself produces nothing.
On the other hand, if we have action without faith, it’s futile. Others will quickly see we don’t believe in what we are doing and look elsewhere for solutions to their problems. No matter how hard we work, it will seem like we are treading water and getting no where.
So in examining our businesses, is either faith or action missing? What can we do to ignite faith or action into our businesses? First of all we pray and by the grace of God, in the days ahead I will try to share some ideas for increasing our business-related faith and activity.
May our Creator and Savior grant us faith to take action in our businesses.
Remember my weight loss story? In 2008 I was ready to lose weight. I talked about, thought about it, and had faith that I could. At the end of the year I had lots of excuses but not one pound lost. I was mired in wishful thinking which by itself produces nothing.
On the other hand, if we have action without faith, it’s futile. Others will quickly see we don’t believe in what we are doing and look elsewhere for solutions to their problems. No matter how hard we work, it will seem like we are treading water and getting no where.
So in examining our businesses, is either faith or action missing? What can we do to ignite faith or action into our businesses? First of all we pray and by the grace of God, in the days ahead I will try to share some ideas for increasing our business-related faith and activity.
May our Creator and Savior grant us faith to take action in our businesses.
The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra
In a race, everyone runs but only one person gets first prize. So run your race to win. I Corinthians 9:24 TLBA family once moved into a new apartment and soon found themselves besieged by salesmen desiring to sign them up for everything from laundry service to life insurance.
One day, a dairyman came to the door offering his services. The woman of the house said, "No, my husband and I don't drink milk." "Be glad to deliver a quart every morning for cooking." the dairyman persisted. "That's more than I need," she replied, trying to close the door. "Well, Ma'am, how about some cream? Berries comin' in now, and..." She answered curtly. "No, we never use cream."
The dairyman walked away slowly and the woman congratulated herself on her sales resistance. The following morning, however, she answered a knock at the door only to find this same dairyman at the door, a bowl of ripe strawberries held carefully in one hand and a half pint of cream in the other. "Lady," he said, as he poured the cream over the berries and handed them to her, "I got to thinkin'. If you've never used cream on berries, you sure have missed a lot in life."
Needless to say, he delivered to her house every day thereafter!
When met with resistance, a leader will use creativity and kindness to overcome obstacles. Don't take "no" for an answer, just approach the issue from a different angle.
God is a creative God. He can give you that little "extra" every day!
A gift from Donna!
One day, a dairyman came to the door offering his services. The woman of the house said, "No, my husband and I don't drink milk." "Be glad to deliver a quart every morning for cooking." the dairyman persisted. "That's more than I need," she replied, trying to close the door. "Well, Ma'am, how about some cream? Berries comin' in now, and..." She answered curtly. "No, we never use cream."
The dairyman walked away slowly and the woman congratulated herself on her sales resistance. The following morning, however, she answered a knock at the door only to find this same dairyman at the door, a bowl of ripe strawberries held carefully in one hand and a half pint of cream in the other. "Lady," he said, as he poured the cream over the berries and handed them to her, "I got to thinkin'. If you've never used cream on berries, you sure have missed a lot in life."
Needless to say, he delivered to her house every day thereafter!
When met with resistance, a leader will use creativity and kindness to overcome obstacles. Don't take "no" for an answer, just approach the issue from a different angle.
God is a creative God. He can give you that little "extra" every day!
A gift from Donna!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Dear Chris, Skyleur, Lewis, Kathi and Steve (Bahler),
This is a letter from Ann sharing her goals and motivations!
I attended Lewis Rasmussen's training in Bloomington last evening (Lewis, as always... it was AMAZING!). I have been distracted this week because my husband Paul's father (who is 89) had heart surgery this week, developed a blood clot and had to have emergency surgery again yesterday.
However, the morning conference calls that Kathi and Steve have had as a result of the SELC Fast Track have helped keep me focused on what I should be doing to advance my business, and the support of our team during this stressful time has been wonderful.
While reading my motivational and devotional readings this morning, I read the following, excerpted from "The Maxwell Daily Reader: 365 Days of Insight to Develop and Influence Those Around You":
Good leaders never embrace a victim mentality. They recognize that who and where they are remain their responsibility - not that of their parents, their spouses, their children, the government, their bosses or their coworkers. They face whatever life throws at them and give it their best, knowing that they will get an opportunity to lead the team only if they've proved that they can carry the ball."
There is more to today's reading, but that first paragraph stopped me in my tracks!
For the benefit of those of you who do not know my story, I was an abused child, married (the first time) at age 17 to someone who was also very abusive. I divorced, met and married my second husband within a 6 month period, and moved from Pittsburgh to St. Paul with he and his two young daughters, and we have been married now for nearly 33 years.
I was raped 21 years ago, and developed a rare blood disorder/leukemia due to the stress of that event... I truly believe that, like Lewis, Melaleuca's wonderful products are the reason I am here today!
Sometime in this past 21 years, I lost my faith in myself, and even though I have thought that I was on the right path MANY times to regaining my initiative and tenacity and ability to succeed, there was still a part of me that needed to recover. Everyone who knows me has always thought that I have the ability to be successful... everyone but me!
In fact, one time, Kathi and I picked up Laraine Agren when she came to the cities to do a training. She liked us so well that she called us her "sisters"! When she left to go home, she told me she would see me at the next SELC! When I was not there (after all, I am STILL not an Executive Director!!!), she had Kathi call me and then she asked me, "Why aren't you here? If I had YOUR abilities, I would be a CORPORATE DIRECTOR, and YOU could be, also!"
Well, the passage this morning from John Maxwell made me realize that my problem is, I have embraced a VICTIM mentality... and knowing what I need to change is POWERFUL! WOW, in fact, it is mind-boggling!!!
The reason I am writing this morning is, I am casting off this victim mentality! And even though I have said this before, as Lewis told me last night. "This IS the year you will become a Senior Director!"
My goal is, I intend to accomplish this BY CONVENTION, even if I do not get the announcement until August! I may not walk across the stage this year (I HOPE I do and I will do everything I can to ensure I achieve SD status by June 30th so I can!)... but Chris, you WILL have the chance to call me and tell me I FINALLY achieved Senior Director!
Thanks to ALL of you for your continued faith in my abilities... I LOVE this company, and like Lewis, I love all of you!
Sincerely,.
Ann Good
"You can never go back and make a brand new start. But you CAN start from now and make a brand new ending." - Henry Ford
I attended Lewis Rasmussen's training in Bloomington last evening (Lewis, as always... it was AMAZING!). I have been distracted this week because my husband Paul's father (who is 89) had heart surgery this week, developed a blood clot and had to have emergency surgery again yesterday.
However, the morning conference calls that Kathi and Steve have had as a result of the SELC Fast Track have helped keep me focused on what I should be doing to advance my business, and the support of our team during this stressful time has been wonderful.
While reading my motivational and devotional readings this morning, I read the following, excerpted from "The Maxwell Daily Reader: 365 Days of Insight to Develop and Influence Those Around You":
Good leaders never embrace a victim mentality. They recognize that who and where they are remain their responsibility - not that of their parents, their spouses, their children, the government, their bosses or their coworkers. They face whatever life throws at them and give it their best, knowing that they will get an opportunity to lead the team only if they've proved that they can carry the ball."
There is more to today's reading, but that first paragraph stopped me in my tracks!
For the benefit of those of you who do not know my story, I was an abused child, married (the first time) at age 17 to someone who was also very abusive. I divorced, met and married my second husband within a 6 month period, and moved from Pittsburgh to St. Paul with he and his two young daughters, and we have been married now for nearly 33 years.
I was raped 21 years ago, and developed a rare blood disorder/leukemia due to the stress of that event... I truly believe that, like Lewis, Melaleuca's wonderful products are the reason I am here today!
Sometime in this past 21 years, I lost my faith in myself, and even though I have thought that I was on the right path MANY times to regaining my initiative and tenacity and ability to succeed, there was still a part of me that needed to recover. Everyone who knows me has always thought that I have the ability to be successful... everyone but me!
In fact, one time, Kathi and I picked up Laraine Agren when she came to the cities to do a training. She liked us so well that she called us her "sisters"! When she left to go home, she told me she would see me at the next SELC! When I was not there (after all, I am STILL not an Executive Director!!!), she had Kathi call me and then she asked me, "Why aren't you here? If I had YOUR abilities, I would be a CORPORATE DIRECTOR, and YOU could be, also!"
Well, the passage this morning from John Maxwell made me realize that my problem is, I have embraced a VICTIM mentality... and knowing what I need to change is POWERFUL! WOW, in fact, it is mind-boggling!!!
The reason I am writing this morning is, I am casting off this victim mentality! And even though I have said this before, as Lewis told me last night. "This IS the year you will become a Senior Director!"
My goal is, I intend to accomplish this BY CONVENTION, even if I do not get the announcement until August! I may not walk across the stage this year (I HOPE I do and I will do everything I can to ensure I achieve SD status by June 30th so I can!)... but Chris, you WILL have the chance to call me and tell me I FINALLY achieved Senior Director!
Thanks to ALL of you for your continued faith in my abilities... I LOVE this company, and like Lewis, I love all of you!
Sincerely,.
Ann Good
"You can never go back and make a brand new start. But you CAN start from now and make a brand new ending." - Henry Ford
Meleconomic Ants?
The ant is one of God’s smallest creatures and yet God commends them as an example of industriousness. Why is that? Anyone who lives in Florida or Texas has heard of the red fire ant. While they are not creative, they are resourceful. Home owners have tried to exterminate them, but their numbers seem to be growing. Rake down their hill and they will replace it or move it, sometimes in only a few hours. They do a few things over and over: they procreate, gather food, dig dens, bite anyone who gets in their way, and move when they are threatened. They have been doing these things since they were created and will continue to do them.
What do we learn about our business from the ant? We learn that repetitive tasks are necessary. We learn that there is a right time to do things. We learn that we can prosper, even in adversity, when we do the right tasks. We learn that urgent action is our friend.
May our Creator and Savior grant us the industriousness and urgency of the ant when it comes to building and maintaining our businesses.
What do we learn about our business from the ant? We learn that repetitive tasks are necessary. We learn that there is a right time to do things. We learn that we can prosper, even in adversity, when we do the right tasks. We learn that urgent action is our friend.
May our Creator and Savior grant us the industriousness and urgency of the ant when it comes to building and maintaining our businesses.
Friday, April 10, 2009
ON TRUST
I bless you with the ability to trust God.
Beloved ones [Ann, Pat, Donna, Kathi, Daryl, Sandy] I bless you with experiencing your Father’s faithfulness, his faithful love toward you, for your emotions to be aware, to know, to savor, to feel, to relish the love your Father expresses toward you. I bless you with experiencing the love of the Father so often that you can never doubt your Father’s love for you! I bless you with no anxiety in the present because God has spoken so richly to you in the past. I bless you with the surety of knowing he will speak again at the right time and the right place. I bless you with seeing so much of his protection that you will trust him implicitly. I bless you in the name of your Eternal Dwelling Place. Amen.
In thinking about what to say today, I felt these are the words the Lord wanted to speak to our group. Sandy.
My children, I speak to you today. I know your hearts, your hurts, your disappointments, your challenges, and, yes, even what gives you joy. For I have made you for My plans and purposes. Even though you have repeatedly failed or been prevented from accomplishing what you’ve set forth to do (your goals, your plans), I still guide your days, your weeks. My children, you are a part of a bigger plan, something you can’t see. Continue to make your plans with your business, knowing I am right there beside you helping you carry out your actions. Be patient with Me as I direct your paths for My glory. Keep pressing in. Galatians 6:9-Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Daryl ended the call time with prayer for Morris, (Paul’s father), Kathi, (who was sick), Amanda (Leukemia) and the rest of the group for other needs and encouragement.
Fast Tract Devotion-Daryl/Sandra Simpson
Friday-April 10, ‘09
Beloved ones [Ann, Pat, Donna, Kathi, Daryl, Sandy] I bless you with experiencing your Father’s faithfulness, his faithful love toward you, for your emotions to be aware, to know, to savor, to feel, to relish the love your Father expresses toward you. I bless you with experiencing the love of the Father so often that you can never doubt your Father’s love for you! I bless you with no anxiety in the present because God has spoken so richly to you in the past. I bless you with the surety of knowing he will speak again at the right time and the right place. I bless you with seeing so much of his protection that you will trust him implicitly. I bless you in the name of your Eternal Dwelling Place. Amen.
In thinking about what to say today, I felt these are the words the Lord wanted to speak to our group. Sandy.
My children, I speak to you today. I know your hearts, your hurts, your disappointments, your challenges, and, yes, even what gives you joy. For I have made you for My plans and purposes. Even though you have repeatedly failed or been prevented from accomplishing what you’ve set forth to do (your goals, your plans), I still guide your days, your weeks. My children, you are a part of a bigger plan, something you can’t see. Continue to make your plans with your business, knowing I am right there beside you helping you carry out your actions. Be patient with Me as I direct your paths for My glory. Keep pressing in. Galatians 6:9-Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Daryl ended the call time with prayer for Morris, (Paul’s father), Kathi, (who was sick), Amanda (Leukemia) and the rest of the group for other needs and encouragement.
Fast Tract Devotion-Daryl/Sandra Simpson
Friday-April 10, ‘09
What Motivates Us to Take Action?
Let’s take a minute and ask ourselves a few questions:
Knowingly or unknowingly, motivational input comes from the people around us. Proverbs 25:11 talks about “words aptly spoken.” If motivational energy is missing, we give permission for someone to speak the words that are “apt to us,” whether the words are affirmation or criticism or different words for different seasons. Then we draw from those words inner motivation to meet our goals.
May our Creator and Savior use others to speak apt words into our lives so we can accomplish all He has set before us.
- What are some successes in my life that I never thought I would achieve?
- What kept me going, even when the going got tough?
- What were the motivations, specifically?
- Are these motivations in my life today?
- If not, what can I do to restore the power of motivation into my life?
Knowingly or unknowingly, motivational input comes from the people around us. Proverbs 25:11 talks about “words aptly spoken.” If motivational energy is missing, we give permission for someone to speak the words that are “apt to us,” whether the words are affirmation or criticism or different words for different seasons. Then we draw from those words inner motivation to meet our goals.
May our Creator and Savior use others to speak apt words into our lives so we can accomplish all He has set before us.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Formula for Success = Goal + Roadmap + Action + Measure (GRAM)
Good goal, no change, good grief!
At the beginning of 2008, I set a goal to lose weight. It was the perfect goal. I had a good why. I knew this was going to be the year. My weight loss in 2008 was … zero, nada, zilch.
Same Goal New Formula
GOAL
For 2009 I set the same goal.
ROADMAP
I made a roadmap consisting of:
May our Creator and Savior grant us favor as we add just a GRAM to our businesses and daily lives.
At the beginning of 2008, I set a goal to lose weight. It was the perfect goal. I had a good why. I knew this was going to be the year. My weight loss in 2008 was … zero, nada, zilch.
Same Goal New Formula
GOAL
For 2009 I set the same goal.
ROADMAP
I made a roadmap consisting of:
- A graph showing my desired weight on any given day on the path to my goal;
- High calorie food items to avoid; and,
- Exercises to burn calories.
ACTION
I took consistent action to follow the road map.
MEASURE
I recorded and compared my weight with the daily objective.
New Formula, Different Results
After three months, I am actually ahead of my goal. The graph shows consistent weight loss. If you look closely, you can see some flat spots when I did not consistently follow the road map. All it took was a little extra effort the next week to get back on schedule. You can check it out at
May our Creator and Savior grant us favor as we add just a GRAM to our businesses and daily lives.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
It's All About THEM
Each week we measure and report our progress. Did we meet our milestones? If so, we are doing the right things, we celebrate and keep going!
If we did not meet our milestones, we ask ourselves:
- Did we keep our “business hours”
- Did we make approaches but got no appointments
- Did we make appointments but got no enrollments
If any of these are true, then it is time to adjust.
We need to set and keep our “open for business” hours no matter what. We do that for our employers at our regular jobs. We need to do that for our businesses. Most illnesses such as colds or flu do not prevent us from making approaches by e-mail. We can ask others to make the presentation for us.
But what if we are working and getting no new customers. We prayerfully evaluate our TECHNIQUE, our HEART, our ENTHUSIASM, and our MOTIVATION. We examine THEM. If something is missing in any of these, we humble ourselves and seek advice and wisdom.
May our Creator and Savior continually renew our business techniques, heart, enthusiasm and motivation to His glory and for the benefit of those we touch.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Million Dollar Why
When we see those who are successful in their businesses, what do we think deep down inside? Do we feel they were just lucky like lottery winners? Do we feel they knew a few key people, or thousands of people. Do we envy their amazing charm and “presence?” If we don’t have some of these gifts, does that give us an excuse to miss our goals regularly?
Maybe what they have is not a winning lottery ticket, but a ”million-dollar why.” Their “why” was so big, so compelling, they kept working even when it was not convenient or easy. When we listen to the stories of successful businesses, we quickly understand that the “why” was way more important than the skill or contacts or charisma.
In today’s economy there are lots of people with “million-dollar whys.” We just have to find them and help them see how our business can help them meet their whys.
May our Creator and Savior open our eyes to see those around us who have compelling “whys” and open our mouths to share our opportunity with clarity and conviction.
Maybe what they have is not a winning lottery ticket, but a ”million-dollar why.” Their “why” was so big, so compelling, they kept working even when it was not convenient or easy. When we listen to the stories of successful businesses, we quickly understand that the “why” was way more important than the skill or contacts or charisma.
In today’s economy there are lots of people with “million-dollar whys.” We just have to find them and help them see how our business can help them meet their whys.
May our Creator and Savior open our eyes to see those around us who have compelling “whys” and open our mouths to share our opportunity with clarity and conviction.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Bless Your Spirit
This was provided by Daryl and Sandy from the booklet : Daily Spirit Blessings (With The Blessings Of Your Father And The Names of God) By: Arthur Burk and Sylvia Gunter
God is the fount of every blessing and of the abundant life that blessing brings. The Bible was written in and to a culture that was steeped in blessing-the blessing of shalom (peace), blessing the child with his name, the patriarchal blessing to the sons, etc-the list goes on. But our culture doesn’t understand blessing as it was practiced in the Bible.
The most profound blessing we need and can receive is the Father-heart of God, his special creation of us, his kind intention toward us, his matchless love for us, his glory revealed in us. Some of Father God’s best healing work today is establishing our true identity in him with his rich blessing. The blessings of the Father are designed to tune our spirit to our Father’s heart over a 40 day period.
Why should we bless our spirits? Because God is a spirit and we are made in his image.
How To Bless Yourself :
Be intentional. Start with yourself so that you can bless others from a full cup. Pray one blessing a day several times during the day.
Begin each time of blessing for yourself by saying something like this example, “Spirit of {insert your name}, come to the front to receive God’s best for you today.”
Then pray the prayer blessing for that day found at www.thefathersbusiness.com. The soul (your mind, your will and your emotions) will be listening but these blessings are intended to build up your spirit to more easily connect with God’s Spirit and receive identity and legitimacy and direction from him.
How To Bless Others:
As you pray these prayers for others, you might begin the prayer blessings by saying, Beloved one (and put in their full name), I call your spirit to the front to hear God’s blessing for you today.” Then pray the prayer blessing for that day found at www.thefathersbusiness.com or the one you want to say for them-40 different ones to choose from.
God is the fount of every blessing and of the abundant life that blessing brings. The Bible was written in and to a culture that was steeped in blessing-the blessing of shalom (peace), blessing the child with his name, the patriarchal blessing to the sons, etc-the list goes on. But our culture doesn’t understand blessing as it was practiced in the Bible.
The most profound blessing we need and can receive is the Father-heart of God, his special creation of us, his kind intention toward us, his matchless love for us, his glory revealed in us. Some of Father God’s best healing work today is establishing our true identity in him with his rich blessing. The blessings of the Father are designed to tune our spirit to our Father’s heart over a 40 day period.
Why should we bless our spirits? Because God is a spirit and we are made in his image.
How To Bless Yourself :
Be intentional. Start with yourself so that you can bless others from a full cup. Pray one blessing a day several times during the day.
Begin each time of blessing for yourself by saying something like this example, “Spirit of {insert your name}, come to the front to receive God’s best for you today.”
Then pray the prayer blessing for that day found at www.thefathersbusiness.com. The soul (your mind, your will and your emotions) will be listening but these blessings are intended to build up your spirit to more easily connect with God’s Spirit and receive identity and legitimacy and direction from him.
How To Bless Others:
As you pray these prayers for others, you might begin the prayer blessings by saying, Beloved one (and put in their full name), I call your spirit to the front to hear God’s blessing for you today.” Then pray the prayer blessing for that day found at www.thefathersbusiness.com or the one you want to say for them-40 different ones to choose from.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Seeing What We Believe
“Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1
For a long time when people are walking across the stage at the convention in recognition of their advancements, we “see” you. Many of you have been in the business for several years, others only a short time. Each year we see you crossing the stage, waving when the announcer calls your name, prancing to the music, that brief moment of panic while you wonder if your clothes are functioning properly, catching a brief glimpse of yourself on the big screen, waving and smiling again to the cheers of the crowd and to the group waiting for you at the bottom of the ramp. You are nearly blinded by the bright lights and cameras flashing as you get closer. It’s is an awesome experience.
Though none of you have actually crossed the stage yet, that does not diminish what we see. You will and it will be a great day for you and everyone in attendance. With the strength of the Creator and Savior, we press on!
For a long time when people are walking across the stage at the convention in recognition of their advancements, we “see” you. Many of you have been in the business for several years, others only a short time. Each year we see you crossing the stage, waving when the announcer calls your name, prancing to the music, that brief moment of panic while you wonder if your clothes are functioning properly, catching a brief glimpse of yourself on the big screen, waving and smiling again to the cheers of the crowd and to the group waiting for you at the bottom of the ramp. You are nearly blinded by the bright lights and cameras flashing as you get closer. It’s is an awesome experience.
Though none of you have actually crossed the stage yet, that does not diminish what we see. You will and it will be a great day for you and everyone in attendance. With the strength of the Creator and Savior, we press on!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Do It Now and Fear Not
Ann recommends this excerpt from “Starting Your Day Right/ Ending Your Day Right” by Joyce Meyer
The Lord said to Abram, Go… away from your country, from your relatives and your father’s house, to the land that I will show you. Genesis 12:1
How would you feel if God told you to leave your home, your family, and everything that is familiar and comfortable and head out to who knows where?
That is the challenge Abram faced, and it frightened him. But God kept saying to him, “Fear not.” That’s the same message He gave to Joshua when He called him to lead the children of Israel to the promised land.
You want to wait until you’re not afraid before you do anything, but if you do that, you will accomplish very little for God. Abram and Joshua has to step out in faith and obedience to do what God had commanded them to do – and they had to do it afraid. They took “steps of faith” even though they had “feelings of fear.”
That’s what you will have to do to accomplish the job God wants you to do. But He’ll be with you, saying, “Fear not.”
The Lord said to Abram, Go… away from your country, from your relatives and your father’s house, to the land that I will show you. Genesis 12:1
How would you feel if God told you to leave your home, your family, and everything that is familiar and comfortable and head out to who knows where?
That is the challenge Abram faced, and it frightened him. But God kept saying to him, “Fear not.” That’s the same message He gave to Joshua when He called him to lead the children of Israel to the promised land.
You want to wait until you’re not afraid before you do anything, but if you do that, you will accomplish very little for God. Abram and Joshua has to step out in faith and obedience to do what God had commanded them to do – and they had to do it afraid. They took “steps of faith” even though they had “feelings of fear.”
That’s what you will have to do to accomplish the job God wants you to do. But He’ll be with you, saying, “Fear not.”
Determine Your TQ or Time Quotient
This training is from the website: www.thinktq.com
If you go to that site, you can take a brief test, then take a more detailed 100 question test to determine your “TQ or Time Quotient” and learn a lot about time planning and time management.
Some Quotes
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"The greatest inspiration is often born of desperation."~ Comer Cotrell
"The biggest difference between time and space is that you can't reuse time."~ Merrick Furst
"A man/woman who does not think and plan long ahead will find trouble right at his door." ~ Confucius
"Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success." ~ Stephen A. Brennan
"You CAN succeed at whatever you do, as long as you simply take the right ACTIONS." -- E.R. Haas, CEO
"Point of view is worth 20 IQ points."~ E. R. Haas
"Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now." ~ Alan Lakein
Complete this week's Lesson In Excellence on planning. Listen to the audio track.
"Answer the Integrating Questions (IQ's) so you can improve your TQ! It may well change your life. -- E.R. Haas, CEO
If you go to that site, you can take a brief test, then take a more detailed 100 question test to determine your “TQ or Time Quotient” and learn a lot about time planning and time management.
Some Quotes
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"The greatest inspiration is often born of desperation."~ Comer Cotrell
"The biggest difference between time and space is that you can't reuse time."~ Merrick Furst
"A man/woman who does not think and plan long ahead will find trouble right at his door." ~ Confucius
"Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success." ~ Stephen A. Brennan
"You CAN succeed at whatever you do, as long as you simply take the right ACTIONS." -- E.R. Haas, CEO
"Point of view is worth 20 IQ points."~ E. R. Haas
"Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now." ~ Alan Lakein
Complete this week's Lesson In Excellence on planning. Listen to the audio track.
"Answer the Integrating Questions (IQ's) so you can improve your TQ! It may well change your life. -- E.R. Haas, CEO
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