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Looking for resources to help you find work, start a new career or boost your finances?  Check out my blog: 

How to Get Ahead

For free advice from Black business experts, see: 

http://ancestralenergies.blogspot.co.uk/2011/05/prepare-for-your-business.html

Here's to your success!

HARMONY: When I am in harmony, paired with peace and grace. I get a feeling of serene and effortless binding elements that brings forth happiness. How did you awake this morning?

--JW 3/29/13

I have the self-discipline to make better decisions. I refrain from negative distractions. I document strategically then pursue and reach my goals. I carefully nurture my character and reward myself often to stay motivated. When we practice temperance our vision becomes sharper and we become honest with ourselves, which allows us to become happier and live by our highest values.

When you take the power of "what if..." seriously, you will embrace the power to construct your own blueprint. Small adjustments to our character and demeanor each day can create a major difference in our appreciation of life. On the outside, nothing changes. At the same time, absolutely everything does. Use your awareness or your imagination to bring happiness to this moment. Find something to appreciate. Continue this as often as you remember to do so, and you will alter your world.

Does anyone know of any local TV show personalities in LA and does anyone know any staff writers who work for Sister 2 Sister, Essence Magazine, or any other magazine staff writer who'd be interested in interviewing an emerging motivational speaker/author? If so, please email me at Hdspivey@hotmail.com or inbox me. Thanks! :)

http://www.lashaesdiamond.webs.com

“Honey, I appreciate you.” Hearing those words can make your man feel like “Superman”. 

Men show love in many ways and only a few of them are similar to ways women express love. Think about it; when we, women, are in love with someone we tend to do some of the following: 

• Send romantic cards 

• Feed our beloved 

• Offer backrubs 

• Send cute and sexy text messages 

• Etc. 

Our expression of love tends to be more affectionate and emotion-based: 

• Cards - say words we may not be creative enough to say. (Warm fuzzy feelings) 

• Food - is comforting and at times revolves around memorable events; the holidays, special occasions, and creates memories. (More warm fuzzies) 

• Backrubs - create intimate moments that may or may not lead to passionate sexual ones. 

• Text messages - generally, if done right, get an immediate response and create an instant connection with our beloved. 

Men can express love in these ways as well, but it does not come naturally to most of them. If you currently have a man who is offering you such emotion-based tokens of love; I can almost guarantee he was taught to be expressive, in this way, by another woman; a previous romance or a great platonic friend. Possibly, by watching a male role model (Who was probably previously guided by a woman's influence as well); however it happened be thankful and be sure to encourage him (Saying thank you is a good start.) whenever he does something; big or small. Appreciation of such “magical” moments is very important if you want him to continue. 

Typically, men express their love for a woman through their actions; to do things for you is more comfortable expressions of love for him. Men love to problem-solve and find ways to be sure their beloved is comfortable, protected, and feels safe. He is more likely to take your car in for an oil change, regular maintenance, or fill your gas tank to show his love then, remember to buy a card and book reservations for your anniversary. 

Yes, I know when dating and in pursuit of the woman of his dreams; a man can be very romantic. But, ladies once he has you. He starts to show his love in less dramatic ways. Things we may take for granted, like that oil change, are his ways of loving and taking care of you. 

So, learning how to be appreciative of the little things can be the difference between a tense relationship and a loving one. Why, because if you start offering “Honey, I appreciate you.” after he has taken out the garbage, picked-up the kids from day care, or asked you about your day. You become even more lovable in his eyes and he will search for more ways to make you happy. He feels like he is getting it right with you; he feels like your hero. 

Yes, your hero, every man wants to be his woman’s hero. He will never tell you, but watch him after you tell him how much you appreciate something he has done for you; big or small. He almost “glows” with satisfaction, he did something right. 

Now, to show you how true the information I am sharing is. I have an assignment for you. This week, I want you to make a list of the little things your man and the men in your life do for you. Yes, single ladies, I want you to do this too. Appreciating men includes appreciation for all of them; our fathers, sons, friends, co-workers, etc. Even a stranger who compliments you or holds the door open for you deserves to receive some appreciation. 

So, that is all for now. I hope this brief article has offered you some helpful insight about the man or men in your life. Have fun with this newfound information; email me and let me know what exciting things happen in your life once you start showing more appreciation for the men in your life or if you would like some one on one assistance learning how to really take advantage of this newfound skill.

Have a wonderful day, 

Cyndi Harris, HP 

Author, Relationship Transformation Coach, Man Whisperer 

www.undeniablyirresistible.com or www.redtentwisdom.com (Go to either site to sign up for your 20 minute complimentary irresistible discovery session.)

Cyndi@undeniablyirresistible.com 

Most of the people I know are high achievers; and a large portion of them are "control addicts".   But the bad part about being in control of everything is that you often end up doing everything in your business.

This kind of behavior creates failure, not success.

One solution is to consider outsourcing - hiring an independent contractor to help you get things done.  Outsourcing can help lift a huge weight off your shoulders.

And it's not just a resource for larger businesses.  Businesses of every size are starting to acknowledge the need to spend more time perfecting their expertise while they free up time by giving work away.  This serves to help you build stronger relationships with prospects and retain current clients.

Why Outsource?

Outsourcing can help you make the most of all of your resources—people, time, money and energy—because you and your staff can focus on the what's most important to your business. When you outsource, in essence you're allowing other companies or individuals with different skill sets (e.g., accounting, human resources or information technology) to do what they do best for YOU. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.

As a result, you have more time to be laser-focused on your specialization which then enhances your credibility, and you become more attractive to people who are looking for the precise solution that you or your company offer.

Fitting Outsourcing Into Your Lifestyle

Outsourcing can definitely require an attitude shift and a willingness to give up a bit of control.  Realistically, it can feel uncomfortable at first.  But staying in a comfort zone is often what leaves some people stuck at the same level year after year.

Really think about your hesitation; what are your concerns about outsourcing?

Here are some common objections:

• Reputation. Business owners might worry what their customers, clients, staff and other stakeholders will think about their decision to outsource. You might also be concerned that the outside specialist will make some kind of drastic error that will harm your reputation.
• Security. Outsourcing may require that you consider sharing certain information to get certain tasks done.  Businesses may not be sure how to protect their intellectual property and other key data from fraud, tampering and other damage.
• Offshoring. A lot of outsourcing is done at the local or national level, but more and more is taking place using foreign associates. You might be concerned about language barriers, health and safety standards, work quality or the impact on your national economy.

With each of these concerns and any others you may have, take some time to answer the question, “What’s the worst thing that could happen if we outsourced?” and then ask yourself, “If that happened, then what?”

Many businesses have outsourced successfully and made mistakes that you can learn from. Do your research and be confident and intentional about your decision to move ahead.

How to Get Started with Outsourcing

Look at the activities you are spending time on that divert you from the core of your business. What’s draining you? Is it administrative tasks, technical support, accounting, human resources, internet technology or something else?

Determine how much time it's taking you to get these things done.  Are you generating profit by doing these yourself?  Could the work be assigned to someone else who has expertise?  What would it take to give up the work?

Start with these questions and begin looking into options for outsourcing to quality contractors.

Need help getting started?  For a complete course on how to find the right outsource partner, check out my brand new online course, "Outsource Your Service Business" on Udemy.com.  I will walk you through the entire process step by step.  For a limited time, you can get it at no cost here: http://udemy.com/outsource-your-service-business.

Ready to focus on what you do best and outsource the rest? The move to outsourcing requires a shift in thinking, some preparation and a slight learning curve, but in the end, you will emerge with a stronger focus on the "main thing" in your business. And it might just be the answer to growing your business to the next level.

Are you ready to have the best romantic relationship ever? Yes, well learning how to love your man or become the woman of your future man's dreams can be a fun-filled journey of self-discovery and unexpected pleasure. 

We crave and desire so much from our most intimate and personal relationship. We watch movies, TV, read romance novels, and share conversations about our dream guy while searching for the “One” with our girlfriends. 

If single, we get all “dreamy and gooey” inside when we see a man who catches our eye as we walk past him on the street or sitting in Starbucks talking to one of our girls. We feel flushed, a little warm, but we are excited. Especially, if he walks over to introduce himself, exchanges a brief conversation, then ask for our number. 

Or if you are in a long term relationship, you may find yourself remembering when you felt “butterflies” in the pit of your stomach whenever your beloved spoke to you in that “oh so sweet and sexy voice”. You know the “voice”… how he sounds when he walks up behind you, places his arms around you, and kisses the side of your neck; then tells you how beautiful you look and he is the luckiest man in the world to be your man. It took everything in you, not to drop to the floor because all of a sudden you felt weak in the knees. And if he wasn’t holding you; you would probably be on the floor; weak with desire for his passionate kisses and more. 

Well, whether you are single or in a committed relationship. Loving a man can seem like an uphill battle at times. They seem to “speak” a language that is confusing and causes you to despair when things take an unexpected turn for the worse. 

We want to keep romance and passion alive, but aren’t sure how to do it. Well, allow me over the next few blog post share a few secrets with you that can turn you into a love and man magnet and receive the love you yearn for and get your beloved to remember why he is so lucky to have you in his life or if single, captivate and capture the right man for you. 

Personal coaching allows you to open up and receive unbiased assistance that helps you become a sexy and romantically successful woman without destroying a man's confidence and masculine identity in the process. Learn how to give what you want to receive in a way that a man appreciates and understands. Crack the code to love’s mystery with the man of your dreams; whether he is a part of your life right now or you are preparing yourself for his arrival. Love waits for no one so, be proactive and learn how to create the changes needed for your loving success. 

So, get ready for the good stuff and I am looking forward to our next conversation. Stay tuned for the first man magnet tip… Showing Appreciation and ways to incorporate it into your daily interactions with your beloved or delightful men you meet throughout the day. 

Have a wonderful day and we’ll talk soon. 

Cyndi Harris, HP 

Author, Relationship Transformation Coach, and Man Whisperer 

www.undeniablyirresistible.com or www.redtentwisdom.com 

Cyndi@undeniablyirresistible.com 

By Connie Portis, author and host of Sisters & Friends Getaway

Vacation partnering is on the rise among women. With many people facing the rising costs of caring for families, paying down debt and still wanting to live ‘the good life,’ traveling for pure relaxation seems out of reach.  Partnering with friends and relatives is a way to enjoy traveling while sharing costs and having a fun experience. See how I took 39 women to Martha's Vineyard for an no drama, peaceful week. www.sistersandfriends.com

10 Tips to Hosting a Shared Vacation

1. Select a place you have always wanted to visit.
2. Begin planning at least nine months ahead.
3. Send out an email to select family and friends and invite them to ask a friend.
4. Visit home rental websites for best bargains and negotiate weekly rental rate.
5. Do your math, factor in house rental and food expenses then set a per person rate.
6. Get a deposit; include a portion that is non-refundable.
7. Guests make own travel arrangements – it’s cumbersome to include travel cost.
8. Plan week’s meal s, bring food with you or locate supermarkets upon arrival.
9. Get there early to scope out the rooms prepare the first meal and to add a welcoming touch.
10.   Be the best host you can be and if you can, stay an extra day to have to your self.

About Sisters and Friends Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard

The end of the summer vacation to Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard’s historic African American retreat is the destination for African American women on a Sisters and Friends Getaway. Scheduled from Sunday to Sunday the week after Labor Day at high season end makes it a perfect time to catch sales and low cost of housing rental.  Oak Bluffs, has great beachside walking paths and the famous Inkwell Beach where African Americans gather is still in tack! It’s perfect for savoring the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s clean air, for taking an historic walking tour and traveling on the local bus to enjoy peace and serenity while on the island.  During the Sisters and Friends Getaway, breakfast and dinner is prepared for guests each day and topped off with dessert to enjoy at days’ end. Women travel there from LA,  GA to PA and places in between.  If interested in coming along email caportis@hotmail.com  or 412-400-8809 for information or visit www.sistersandfriends.com

Let's close Women's History Month On a Strong Note! In the spirit of sisterhood take part in the latest featured discussions on BBWO

• herCoupons: browse and share your small business promotions
• goToGirls: browse and share your favorite service professionals
• herMagazines: browse and share publications by women entrepreneurs

Also be sure to take a look at the small business articles featured from our current Spotlight Member Sylvia Browder and continue to send use your submissions to be apart of the BBWO Experts Team.

Need a fresh perspective on your business?
Spring is a great time to clean out those out dated business strategies holding you back and to try new things. If you missed BBWO Experts present at this years Power Circle Conference use the code Women13 to get 50off the replays before Women's History Month ends. Click here to watch your replays.

Enjoy your weekend! And be sure to review the latest Online Business Tutorials featured on SistaSense.com. Spring Break, while the kidddies are out of school, is a great time to get your business back on track!

How to raise your prices without losing your clients

Eventually in your business you’ve probably considered or are forced to increase your fees or prices. And for many doing so without losing your most valuable clients/customers comes with a level of anxiety and perhaps fear.

Will they go to another competitor?
Will they begin to bad mouth me and tarnish my reputation?
Will they simply laugh at me and threaten to leave if I raise my prices another penny?

However at some point, especially if you offer time based services (charge by the hour), you’ll need to increase your fees, give yourself a raise and expand your business. We all have the same 24 hours a day it’s impossible if you are a solo entrepreneur to grow your biz without hiring new staff, or increasing fees.
So If you’re in that critical space where your palms are sweating, you’re staring at your bank account or an open email to your client where you have to break the news that you must raise your fees - here’s what you need to do and how to go about raising your prices.

1st. EVALUATE YOUR TOP CLIENT LIST. While all your clients/customers are important to you, those that consistently invest in your services are your Top clients. Evaluate the services you clearly offer to your top paying (or frequent paying) clients. What are they buying from you? What questions or issues do they seem to have that you may not be charging them for? What are they saying about your services right now? Often clients will hire you for what they think they need and then realize they need you for more.It’s up to you to be in the position of power to realize exactly what that is. There is hidden (profit) potential in those unspoken needs of your clients.

2nd TURN IT INTO A PACKAGE. Turn what they buy from you that is related to task/time (hourly) into packaged automated services. Ex. when I created Your Simple Bookkeeper, I created it as a monthly automated service to tackle bookkeeping task at a monthly recurring fee. This allowed me to package my “time driven” services and hire other bookkeepers to actually do the work so I could be available to offer higher end consulting services. Automating (or systemizing) your services and business is a common struggle for business owners as many like the control of knowing they did the work, however remember there are only 24 hours a day and you need most of them to work ON your business (more clients, partnerships, exposure) not IN. Your clients will appreciate your keen insight into entrepreneurship.

3rd MAKE IT SIMPLE. Create one sheets of those simple services you’re now automating or have created packages for. One sheets are literally that, a one sided designed document with your service or product description on it. It gives the reader all the information they NEED to know about what you offer to make a decision on hiring you. You can place your new automated time driven services on your website or "work with me" page. Ensure to include a payment link so potential customers can submit a payment (or if you need them to inquire first - a way for them to email you). Automate your hourly based services as much as possible. 

4th. SEND A LETTER. Send your existing clients a letter – written to them as specifically as possible (or call them, invite to coffee, etc) and explain to them that you are seeking to expand and offer more services to them and want to serve them in more ways. Having this personal touch goes along way. Like in #1 - getting to know your clients is important. You are in the position of power - you were hired to provide a solution and often that solution isn't in what you're being paid for, but in those consistent questions you're being asked that you're not charging for. Once you've realized that, and have now increased your fees. Compassionately talk to your clients, get them on board - you'll find that most are eager and ready to have you do more for them.

5th. MAKE IT COMPLIMENTARY. You may offer them the same services they are currently buying from you at a slightly higher fee (your new higher price) but you’ll offer 2 of your task driven services for “free” or “complimentary” Ex. YSB’s bookkeeping services are $75 an hour for most businesses. Our Small Business packages run form $150 a month to $1250 a month. At the $1250 level, bookkeeping becomes “complimentary” as the bulk of the services they are getting become more consultative in nature. 

There are countless other strategies that I’ll share in subsequent blog post about how to do this, but these 5 steps are great starters. The moral of the story is to not become self-victimized by fear of losing clients when it’s time to raise your fees. Do it with confidence, and be clear on WHY you’re doing it. You could lose some clients, but again you probably WILL open yourself to a new group of clients eager to pay your higher fee  .

Like this? Make sure you subscribe to this blog on the right…more goodies in store for those who do.

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Katrina M. Harrell is a Award-Winning Entrepreneur and Business Strategist and 3x Best-selling author. She trains and teaches women entrepreneurs how to create solid 6-figure and above business strategies focused on strategic pricing and marketing. She is co-author of "How She Got Free: A 5-step Spiritual Business Manual for Women Who Lead through Entrepreneurship". 

If you have been caught up in the dating "hamster" wheel lately and are having a hard time understanding why your dates are not progressing beyond a first date then, this report will give you a glimpse at what you may be doing unintentionally that is turning off your dates.

Here's the set up: 

You know you are a beautiful, caring, fun, and loving woman. But for some reason, your dates either do not call back or if they do call back; nothing happens. No second date is booked and eventually he stops calling. You are feeling confused and disappointed; possibly a little hurt as well. You thought the date went well. Both of you were laughing, sharing great conversation, and he mentioned a few times that he was having a good time. Yet, nothing happens after the first date.

Well, I have a secret to share with you. One of the reason, he may not be calling back is; he thinks it would be too much work to date you. Men love to date confident women. They want to spend time with a woman who is easygoing, fun, intelligent, and relaxed. But, if during any of the conversations you had with your date: 

• He felt you were sharing too much personal information too soon. 

• Coming on the dating with a "Could He Be the One?" agenda. 

• Or did not come across as a confident woman. 

He has decided to walk away. Men get nervous when they notice they are out with a woman who: 

• Still has unresolved issues with an ex. 

• Is obviously on the "marriage" bandwagon. 

• Or is telling him too many private details regarding her life on the first date. 

If during the initial conversation you were basically giving him your life and dating history. He will feel overwhelmed or he decides since you have shared so much already; there really isn't much more that he needs to know about you. A man rarely calls you back when either of these two happens on a first date. So, if you want to put yourself in the rare category of multiple dates and have more options than the average woman.

Here are 5 secrets about men, most women ignore.

1. The majority of men like a woman who is a little mysterious. He wants to learn about you layer by layer. He wants to feel like he has to "earn" the right to spend time with you. I know this sounds a bit old-fashioned, but in this age of information overload. A woman who leisurely “unfolds” in front of a man is very beautiful to him and a rare delight. Think about the men you have met in the past who you did not instantly share your life story. They usually wanted to see you again because, they thought you were interesting and had a desire to learn more about you. 

2. Men love confident women. An insecure woman will rush through explaining who she is and provide too much information; just in case she may never see him again. This feels desperate and can make a man feel uncomfortable. A confident woman gives just enough information about herself to keep him interested for more. Example: The question comes up about your ex. 

• A confident woman will smile and say "He was a great guy and we had so much fun together, but eventually we just grew apart and knew it was time to move on. I really do wish him the best." 

• The typical woman when asked this question will tell the her date all the lousy and worst things about her ex and the break up. 

• The first answer shows your date you are a confident and relaxed person. This makes him feel good and there is a good chance he will want to see you again. If he is smart, he will ask for a second date before you finish the first date. 

• The second answer lets your date know you are probably still bitter about the breakup and your date will have no desire to ask for a second date. 

So, if you are looking to improve your chances of going on a second date and beyond with the right guy. Remember to: 

3. Smile – Smiling makes you look confident and relaxed. Plus, if you are smiling you will look even more attractive. 

4. Be Classy and Confident - Let him see that you are a confident woman who really does enjoy her life. Show him through your actions that you are a charming and charismatic person. 

5. Flirt – Yes, flirt and depending on your personality style; you can be demure or slightly more daring. Keep it light and playful (avoid coming across too sexy.) You want to peak his interest not turn this into foreplay. 

The most important thing you can do is to have fun. Smile, flirt, and be playful. Keep the conversation light. Ask questions that are easy to answer and keep you from sounding like an FBI interrogator. If you would like some useful tips on how to flirt successfully and with ease; send me an email at:

Cyndi@undeniablyirresistible.com to receive my free guide to the "The Art of Flirting".

This is the end of the report. Hopefully, you will use these 5 tips on your next date. If you do, watch how often you are asked out on a second date. Keep it simple and enjoy.  

Have a lovely day. 

I am wishing you much love and unlimited joy, 

Cyndi Harris, HP 

Relationship Solutions Coach and Man Whisperer "Intimacy Creator Savant" 

And author of the forthcoming book: 

“The Official Handbook to Becoming Irresistible” 

(Learn How to Become a Woman Who Is Positively Unforgettable.)

Calling All Business Women!

Looking to expand and grow your business,or maybe you are an aspiring business women looking to get started and don't know how, well this is just the event for you. Join us for the Pink Carpet Event! were there will be women just like you there will be food, music and a host of businesses and information on starting your own business. Hope to see you there!

Business Women Expo 2013

Saturday June 22, 2013

For more informationa and registration visit us @ www.lashaesdiamond.webs.com

Nickii's Boutique's beautiful new designs and special  savings are just in time for a delightful Mother's Day.  Use coupon code "preferredcustomer" for a 5% discount on any purchase.  Join our email list and receive an additional 5% off.  Shop New Spring Designs Now!  

Smart entrepreneurs are savvy shoppers too! Use the comment area below to browse and share small business deals and discounts. The BBWO team will periodically check the promos added and feature new ones via the list below:

Pretty Professional Websites - Is it time to clean up your online brand and give your old site a new look? Click here and get a $100 Off Coupon Code that use can use to get a custom landing page or website.

eBates - Wouldn't you like to get cash back for your online purchases? After a great workshop with the Coupon Queen, Rhonda Nails (details here), I found out how to get cash back via eBates.com. And when I signed up I got a FREE Target Gift card. Get yours today, click here.

Need help with your Business? - Use the code POWER13 and get 50% off the SistaSense Power Circle Conference Replays. Find out how to really use social media to boost your business, get started with mobile marketing, learn how teaching pays online, tap into million dollar business tips and more! Click here and get instant access to watch videos today.

Dollar Downloads and Daily Deals - click here to join this featured BBWO group where you can share your digital download promotions and daily product deals.

As women entrepreneurs I'm sure we all have goToGirls, other business owners and service professionals we call on when something needs to get done.

In the spirit of sisterhood and small business support, use the comment box below to share some of your favorite GoToGirls!


Here are a few that may be of interest to you:

• Web Services: I'm not the only web designer in town. BBWO Content Manager, Art Deal helps me add FRESH material to the network every week AND she provides an extensive list of services via her website http://www.artiatesiadeal.com.
  
  
• Book Marketing: Online readers often ask me questions about promoting their books and when I feel they need more help than I can provide I recommend Pam Perry, who specializing in ministry marketing solutions and helping authors develop their PR presence. Be sure to take a look at Pam's - Get Out There Kit, a marketing Bootcamp to help you with your visibility and sales.

Remember this post was created to spotlight OTHER professionals, so please do not share a link to your own business.

Oprah isn't the only woman entrepreneur with a GREAT women's magazine to share. Post your original publications and/or favorite magazines created by women below.

To start, here are a few that might interest you. And remember to post yours via the comment box below; l just might FEATURE your magazine on my list!

• SistaSense In Print Magazine
  Founded by BBWO creator LaShanda Henry, this publication features online business and technology tips for women entrepreneurs.
  
  
• Black Love Mag
  Created by BBWO Member Jai Stone, Black Love Mag is a Love & relationship publication produced by the writers at BlackLoveForum.com
  
  
• The PUSH Report Magazine
  Created by BBWO Member Rhonda Nails, the PUSH Report gives readers a glimpse of Success in Entrepreneurship.Topics such as Social Media, Parenting, Business Strategy and Financial Success are covered in each issue.
  
  
• Women of Standard Magazine
  Founded by the dynamic Carla Cannon, this magazine focuses on empowering others & equipping them to live their best lives now!

Featured BBWO Group:
Magazine Mogulettes - a group for women who currently publish magazines, women who are exploring the idea of publishing magazines, or people who want to support, purchase, or contribute to continuing magazines published by women (click here to join).

Looking for more Exposure?

Did you know that you can also add your magazine to the BBWO Books and Magazines Directory? Click here to submit your publication today.