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INCREASING YOUR CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

As a new leader, visionary or entrepreneur, your sphere of influence is your power circle. Influence is all about the people you connect with constantly. If you don't have one then you aren't leading. If you aren't sure whose in this circle you are leading the blind. The goal of all leaders should be to increase their circle and cater to the interests and needs of their circle of influence.

As a leader you should have a team who is dependent on your vision and leadership to guide them. This is your sphere on influence. Your energy is dedicated to the visions, the mission, and your team. You should know what is most important to that circle and how you are reaching them. You need to know how your circle receive information best and how frequently you need to contact them to keep them motivated.

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To tap into your sphere of influence think about this:

  • Who is currently in your circle of influence? Who do you currently connect to consistently? Do you share the same values, career, problems? What attracts you to one another? Think about if this is the group you need to sell the vision you have. If not begin to think about who you need to add to your circle. 
  • Who would I like to include in my circle of influence? Maybe there are a group of professionals who you'd like to market your vision to but you aren't currently. You have to study places they frequent and who they tend to gravitate to. You've got to do what you need to, to grab their attention and once you've got it give them all you've got. They need to leave understanding who you are, what you do, and why they should care. Think about this carefully before approaching new influences. 
  • What is most important to them? Know their values and principles. Know what problems they have, what makes them tick, and where they go to de-stress. You need this information to target and position yourself to be on their radar. Once you are speaking to them you have a few speaking points of their interest, and you can now transition into telling them more about you and what you do. 
  • How can I communicate what I know to that circle of influence? Once your initial contact how can you stay in contact with them. When you exchange business cards you can ask if they'd like to know more about the topic you discussed and get permission to add their email to your list. Now you have targeted exactly who you need to have on your list and you can win them into your circle of influence! 
Learn to follow your circle and they will learn to follow you!!
For more practical advice on how to connect to your circle join me for the Accelerate your Vision Tele-seminar by visiting www.permissiontodrive.com/teleseminar.html 
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Some of our members (including myself), have some motivation, information, and inspiration to share with you this morning.

 

First note that today I am hosting the Rock The Web Webinar Workshop. If you are getting started, starting over, or simply trying to get clear on your web vision be sure to join us. Plus the Blogging for Business and Customer Attraction webinars are also available for registration. To participate or get details go to www.sherockstheweb.com.

Emails Driving You Crazy?
Tanya Smith shares a great web app for managing subscriptions in your Gmail inbox. Tremendous time saver. (watch video here)

 

Black Women Inventors
Denise B has recently shared the story of Dr. Shirley Jackson. She invented touch tone phones, the portable fax machine and fiber optic cables used to make overseas calls clearer. Jackson also used her skills in science to make call waiting and caller ID possible. (continue reading)

 

What is Killing Your Vision by Regina Coley
When you begin to plan your vision there will seem to be things that hinder you from pushing forward. (continue reading)

 

How do you deal with that “icky” feeling of rejection? + 3 steps to healthy acceptance
Rejection feels “icky” doesn’t it? It hits that space in us that we are uncomfortable with. That space that reminds us that we perhaps aren’t good enough or worthy enough. It reminds us of those childhood memories we would much rather forget. It just doesn’t feel good to be rejected by others. (continue reading)


Upcoming Events
As I prepare to speak at Blogalicious 2012 this I have a few things to tell you.

One: be sure to let me know if you will be in Vegas too!
Two: remember you can add or browse upcoming events here.
Three: I will be hosting a Fall SistaSense Power Circle Next Month! Look out of details and contact me here if you would like like to submit a panel proposal.

 

More to come!

 

LaShanda Henry
Founder of Black Business Women Online
www.mybbwo.com

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Breaking, but not Broken

I found the above photo a few days ago on Facebook and it reminded me of something I recently wrote and would like to now share with you...

 

Do you remember the previous issue of SistaSense Magazine? Creating the first six issues was truly a personal accomplishment for me, but when the New Year hit production unfortunately stopped. Publishing a complete magazine with a team of one is challenging. But when the task became overwhelming rather than break under the pressure, I decided to simply take a break. I find the word “break” to be one of the most interesting words in the English language. As you and I strive to fulfill our purpose in life, how we each choose to interpret this word can literally make or break us.

On one hand the act of breaking can lead to sadness and destruction. No one wants to be broke or feel broken. No one wants to have to break apart their business or feel weighed down by broken dreams. For obvious reasons, no one wants to break the things they love. However, sometimes the act of breaking is essential. Sometimes we need to break ties with people who hold us back. Sometimes we need a break; an opportunity to arise from somewhere or somebody willing to help us get to the next level. And sometimes we just need a break to relax and plan our next move.

As a mompreneur sometimes I need (continue reading)

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Best Ways to Promote Your Books and eBooks

If you ready my series of posts about the powerful Black Women I met at the Black Enterprise Forum you will know that I've been talking about my Power Circle quite a bit so I decided to share these neat video clips that take you inside the 12 sessions of the last SistaSense Power Circle. In this one, PR Marketing Expert, Pam Perry shares her recommendations on how to promote your books and eBooks via various mediums like radio and even amazon.com.

The video is about a 15 minute clip, to listen to all 60 minutes of Pam's Session plus the other 11 sessions on blogging, sales, social media and more visit the SistaSense Power Circle download page. You can use the code GETIT12 when you download.

 

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21 speakers to EMPOWER Christian Women and Entrepreneurs during My Extraordinary Life and Business Success Telesummit

 

Christian Women are encouraged to step up and catapult their personal, spiritual and business growth via an empowering virtual (online) Event. Experience Rejuvenation, Transformation, Empowerment and Spiritual Renewal during this no cost event.

 

(Press Release) – Sept 11, 2012 – Imagine receiving insight from 21 savvy spiritually empowered experts in various fields that will catapult your personal, spiritual and business growth from the comfort of your home. The information shared is valued at thousands, however, you won’t pay that. The cost of this empowering event is FREE! Discover insider tips and strategies without the hype.

 

Why free? Robin Tramble the host of this event is passionate about empowering women to discover their authentic self, get unstuck, laser focused, so they can show up bold, brilliant, confident and empowered to get out there in BIG while prospering and making a difference in the world “authentically!”

 

My Extraordinary Life and Business Success Telesummit will include topics on business success, social media, life balance, health and fitness, mindset, empowerment, 6 figure manifestation, feminine, overcoming challenges and more. These fired up experts will share insights on breaking through to your Extraordinary Life and Business Success.

 

Our featured speakers include:

Diane Cunningham


Chris Makell

Michele Scism

 

Plus 16 more!

 

We invite you to take advantage of this empowering event. Your life will be enriched and your personal, spiritual and business growth will be catapulted!

Realize Rejuvenation, Transformation, Empowerment and Spiritual Renewal.

 

Of course we encourage you to make all of the calls, however, you will have access to the replay for a limited time. If you desire to secure a permanent copy for your collection you will be given an opportunity to do so.

 

You have nothing to lose and so much to gain!

 

My Extraordinary Life and Business Success Telesummit is sponsored by Robin Tramble International, World Wide Visibility Social Media and The Authentic Triple A.A.A. Woman Network. To secure your FREE VIP ticket go to

http://www.myextraordinarylifeandbusiness.com

 

 

We look forward to having you join us!

 

# # #

 

Robin Tramble works with Christian Women Leaders, Entrepreneurs, Coaches, Speakers and Authors who want to discover their authentic self so they can make big changes or achieve some big results but are struggling to make it happen fast enough. She helps them get unstuck, laser focused, so they can show up bold, brilliant, confident and empowered to get their message out there in BIG way while prospering and making a difference in the world “authentically!”

 

Robin is CEO and Founder of Robin Tramble International, She’s a Professional “Authentic” Empowerment Specialist, Trainer, Coach and Public Speaker. Robin is also known as Empowerment Diva because she has carved out a niche in the area of empowerment. She has shared her empowerment tips on Good Day Sacramento as “Empowerment Diva” and was named 1 of 25 urban Entrepreneurs to follow on Twitter by Brand maker News. Robin has also upgraded her Social Proof with a certification as a Social Media Marketing Campaign Specialist to further support her commitment to helping Women get their message out there in a big way “authentically!”

 

Robin is also an accomplished keyboardist, singer and songwriter and plans to incorporate her musical gifts with her resources for women’s empowering personal development.

 

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Access women fitness and financial tools free

During our biggest decisions we are subject to on the job training  called  LIFE for example:

  • What  are your options for health insurance  and how to make the most of  all the changes.
  • How debt collection and bankruptcy works and how you need to be aware of your rights.
  • How to get a copy of your credit report and how to dispute incorrect information on it

Many times we need to make a decision quickly .

Now there’s a better way

You will find great guides and presentations that will open your eyes up to options on health  , finances, savings and insurance options  through educational resources so you can more informed decisions.

Get Instant Access

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10744084699?profile=originalDr. Shirley Jackson. Dr. Shirley Jackson, a theoretical physicist, became the first black woman to earn a Ph.D from M.I.T in 1973. ...

She invented touch tone phones, the portable fax machine and fiber optic cables used to make overseas calls clearer. Jackson also used her skills in science to make call waiting and caller ID possible.
 
Today, Jackson is the president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She's the first female and African American to hold the position. She also became the first African American female to receive a doctorate in Theoretical Solid State physics from MIT.
 
Dr. Jackson became a Research Associate in Theoretical Physics at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory from 1973-1974 and served as a Visiting Science Associate at the European Organization for Nuclear Research from 1974 to 1975.
 
Dr. Jackson then returned to Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory as a Research Associate in Theoretical Physics.
 
She spent 1976-77 at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center and Aspen Center for Physics. Dr. Jackson also served on the Technical Staff of Bell Telephone Laboratories in theoretical physics from 1976 until 1978. In 1978 Shirley Jackson began working with the Technical Staff of the Scattering and Low Energy Physics Research Laboratory of Bell Telephone Laboratories.

 

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Looking for more customers?

Wellness Authority is a unique online community that connects   holistic and financial professionals with consumers

Do you need ?

  • User friendly system
  • Increase online presence
  • Cost effective ways to reach consumers
  • Ability to leverage your resources

Wellness Authority help you accomplish all four which  means more customers with  less work!

Who Can Join?

  •  Financial Planners
  • Nutritionist
  • Realtors
  • Insurance Agents
  • Health Coaches
  • Personal  Trainers
  • Personal chefs
  • Chiropractors
  • there is just too many to list… but you get the idea

Find out why partnership means a better way to grow your business . Visit wellnessauthority.org for more details.

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How Blogging Can Make You Famous

According to Forbes.com, "The face of fame is changing". You no longer have to necessarily be a singer, rapper, actor, entertainer or even politician to be famous. As I'm sure you have seen, you can now be famous from as much as a silly video on YouTube to starting a really great charitable cause.

One of the most popular, easiest ways to become famous online is to blog! Believe it or not, there are a few people who have become famous from blogging. And as a "potential blogger" or "rockstar blogger in the making", it is important to know a few of these famous bloggers. Why? Because as the famous saying goes, "don't reinvent the wheel". No reason to think TOO outside of the box when it comes to blogging as a lot of it has been done already. And if these people can do it, believe me, so can you. Here are few famous bloggers online you may not be familiar with...continue reading

Tamara

BeFamousOnline2.com

GarrisonProsperitySolutions.com

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Micore.jpg?width=292Still in the pre-launch phase, and set to officially launch on September 22, 2012, Micore’ International is a hair extension business that plans to utilize the Multi-Level Marketing business model to market its hair extension products. An interesting new concept that few have attempted and zero have mastered in the billion dollar hair extension industry!

Let me first start by stating that I have zero affiliation with and zero interest in becoming affiliated with Micoré International. This is an unbiased “business” review of the Micoré Multi-Level Marketing Business Opportunity.

About Micoré International

“Why buy hair when you can buy a hair business?”  This is the catchy slogan for Micoré International which was co-founded by a businessman named Mercy Alexander who was also behind the Virgin Hair Supply ecommerce site that was launched back in 2009. Mr. Alexander has had experience with several multi-level marketing companies over the past decade. The mission of Micoré International MLM is to become the largest single seller of hair extensions and lace wigs in the United States and keep a significant amount of the dollars that African American’s spend on hair extensions in the “African American community.” Micoré plans to do this by utilizing the Multi-Level Marketing Business Model, thus giving individuals an opportunity to be consultants in additional to consumers of the products while earning money in the process.

About the Products

In a nutshell Micoré will offer hair extensions and hair wigs. Micoré plans to offer two brands of “high quality” virgin hair via their Caviar Collection and their indiSylk Collection which they claim to be of the highest quality Indian Hair available in the world!

Business Opportunity

One can join Micoré by purchasing a Membership for $99.95. This includes an annual Independent Representative fee of $49.95, a one month subscription to the Micoré replicated website and virtual office ($20 value), as well as access to downloadable virtual tools which include business cards, flyers, brochures, order forms, and training.

Joining at this level does not enable one to begin earning commissions, nor does one earn commissions on the $99.95 membership fee.

Compensation Plan

There will be 7 ways in which Micoré will pay its distributors.

1. Retail Sales (buy at wholesale which is offered at 20% off of retail)

2. 4×5 Forced Matrix – which is where one can begin to earn commissions. After enrolling one 1 new distributor one can begin to earn 2% on each level thereafter.

3. Fast Start Bonus – After enrolling a new member who in turn purchases a product pack of extensions distributors will earn a 20% bonus commission on the purchase.

4. Team Commission

5. Points Program

6. Matching Bonus

7. Rank Advancement Bonus

The compensation plan offers the “typical commission and bonus titles” but is a bit more complex and obviously not your typical compensation plan due to the nature of and price points of this product. More detail on the compensation structure, breakdown and product price points can be viewed by clicking here. Additionally, there is a $50 minimum monthly auto-ship requirement for all distributors that participate in the compensation plan.

Is Micoré a Legitimate Business Opporunity

Is the Micoré International Hair MLM Opportunity a legitimate business opportunity?  It has yet to “officially” launch but on the surface it is definitely a “legitimate opportunity as it stands today.” Is Micoré International Hair MLM a good business opportunity? It depends! For starters, they have yet to launch and so I’m assuming that there are not a lot of people with actual product in hand who can attest to whether the “value” is what Micoré is proclaiming it to be.  Additionally, while the hair extension industry is a billion dollar, big business industry, consumers in this industry are always very fickle! Either they will love it, or hate it and you can best believe that they will tell a friend or two about their experiences – the good, the bad and the ugly! Just go to Google and type in a phrase along the lines of “bad hair extension companies.”

As with any other Multi-Level Marketing company WORK WILL DEFINITELY BE REQUIRED in order to succeed with Micoré. The products will not sell themselves and leads will not automatically land on your lap. New customers, repeat customers and new business partners will still be the lifeblood of the business! As with any other business startup, Micoré will require some sweat equity in order to produce results; not to mention that distributors will need to become well versed and in essence “Experts” in the virgin hair extensions industry and in the Micoré products! Competition in the hair extension industry is extremely high, regardless of the fact that there is virtually no competition in terms of there being no other MLM Hair Extension companies. When there is no competition that can sometimes be an indicator of factors that will be critical to the success or lack of success of the company.

This is a ground floor opportunity which appears to be launching in phases and so there will be money made but there is much yet to be discovered on how lucrative and feasible that the Micoré opportunity will be. Leadership and track record means a lot.  Click here to see the “leaders” that are behind Micoré presenting an “overview” of the business! Proceed with caution and with realistic expectations as it is about so much more than just hair! Do your due diligence on the leadership team as well as on the actual production and manufacturing of the products. All is not created equal in the “virgin hair extensions industry.”

Good luck!

VGold Signature Hair Extensions and Multi Level Marketing – Let’s Take a Look at the Micoré International MLM Opportunity!

P.S. – I use a system that anyone can use with any company and pretty much for any industry!! It is a great way for you to start learning how to generate leads and traffic plus earn additional income by referring the system even if no one joins your primary Home Based Business. Get your FREE presentation by Clicking here now!

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Wedding favorites from Angel Minaro

    Angel Minaro is a luxury kissed spa and skincare line that will cater to your every need from head to toe as you prepare for your special day.

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Our botanical infused skin care products nurture and nourish the skin while our luxuriousspa line pampers and detoxifies both the body and mind to keep you glowing, beautiful and ready both physically and mentally for your special day.

The Angel Minaro product line includes a facial line which consists of cleansers, a microdermabrasion cream, masks, toners, moisturizers and serums. The body care line includes lotions, creams, butters, body oils, body scrubs and body wraps. The bath splendor line includes body washes, luxurious bath oils, salt soaks, milk baths and bubble baths. The hair care line includes shampoos, conditioners and hair oils. The manicure and pedicure line includes soaks, lotions, scrubs and serums.

                                          

                                       Chocolate and Strawberry antioxidant toning masque

                                            

                                        Arome Tropical ultra nourishing and firming body lotion

Our products also make exquisite gifts for the special people in your bridal party or anyone that deserves to be thoroughly pampered.

At Angel Minaro, there’s a little something for everybody. Welcome to the ultimate spa experience.

                                                         Let’s get gorgeous!

                          

Our services include:

- Favors for weddings and wedding showers,

- Gifts for the bride (to pamper and get herself ready for the special day),

- Gifts for the bridal party,

- Gifts for any special person of your choice.

The gifts can be fully customized for any occasion and can be full size or mini versions of any of our products. 

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Enter your name and email address and I’ll send you access to this exclusive FREE live training webinar for conscious leaders, managers, entrepreneurs and visionaries who seek clarity with their vision so they can reach more people.

EVEN IF YOU CAN'T MAKE THE LIVE CALL, LEAVE YOUR DETAILS AND WE'LL LET YOU KNOW HOW TO ACCESS THE REPLAY.

On this 60-minute webinar you'll learn:

  1.  The number one reason why your vision won’t launch this year

  2.  The top three reasons why you will work on building someone else’s vision and neglect your own

  3.  How to SAVE TIME AND MONEY by creating a strategic plan and using this as the foundation of your vision

  4.  The ONE THING you must do with your vision to START ATTRACTING FOLLOWERS quickly

  5.  Exciting details about my upcoming bootcamp, “Permission to Drive” – a 6-Week online program where I’ll take you by the hand and walk you through your vision to position you as an effective leader and visionary and skyrocket your business/company!

Whether you’ve been thinking about launching your vision for a while, or you’re just trying on an idea for the first time, this is the perfect time to learn how to do this because it can launch your business and leadership skills like you never imagined!

I look forward to sharing what I know with you!

Regina E. Coley

Your Leadership Coach

 

www.persmissiontodrive.com/Teleseminar.html

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What is Killing Your Vision?

When you begin to plan your vision there will seem to be things that hinder you from pushing forward. Be aware of the vision killers!!
1. Tradition. Some people are accustomed to doing things a certain way. They feel like your vision goes against the grain and often times when people can't associate with your vision, they will ridicule it. Beware of the company you keep! Keep people around you who can support your vision and dreams. 
2. Fear of ridicule. You're afraid of what others think. You have this new idea to try something old in a new way. But after planning you start thinking about what others will say to you and about you. 
3. Negative Thinking. You start questioning your own abilities to carry out your vision. I don't think I'm qualified. I don't have the time. What if no one likes me? My spouse says this is just an expensive hobby, I'll never make it. Flick that bug out of your ear! Post a vision board in a space you frequent daily and remind yourself of your vision and the reason why its important to bring it to fruition! 
4. Short-term thinking. You're only thinking about what you want right now and not long term. Remember short term thinking leads to a better moment, long term thinking leads to a better life. 
5. Stereotypes. Sometimes there is a speech, a look, a lifestyle that is associated with certain positions and businesses. Stereotypes can create fear if you are a pioneer in a new field or the first in an older field.

Whatever it is that's holding you back, shake it off and keep moving towards your goal. Nurture your vision and stop murdering your vision before you've given it a chance to live!
Join me for the Accelerate your Vision Tele-seminar by visiting www.permissiontodrive.com/teleseminar.html
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Everywhere you go these days, the mental health of our community seems to be a primary subject and concern. We have finally come to grips with the fact that not all of our problems are financial and social. Some of our problems are borne of unspoken misery and unresolved pain.

 

That’s why I published a book earlier this year filled with healthy living tips for the mind, body and soul. “Broken In Plain Sight” provides a perfectly crafted fictional, highly imaginative platform that proves that love is the common denominator to vibrancy and healing. The novel-like feel works to illustrate the underlying reasons for unhealthy lifestyle habits and offers practical and innovative solutions for living healthier.  In its fictional, diet-guide like format, the book exposes the struggles, secrets, and corruption within an African American family and their journey to find love, truth, and healing.

 

Now, six months later, my new book, “Broken In Plain Sight”, has been nominated to receive The Henri at The 2012 Christian Literary Awards in November 2012. See for yourself why it was nominated and purchase your copy today. In order to take home this prestigious award, I need your vote! If you liked my book, I would greatly appreciate if you would take a minute and vote for it.

 

Just visit http://www.awards.joyandcompany.org/about. You’ll need to create an account, then after receiving your password, you’ll need to “Login” and follow the prompts which include clicking “2012 AWARDS” and selecting READER'S CHOICE to CAST YOUR VOTE for “Broken In Plain Sight” in the Fiction Category.  Voting will close on September 30th. Please tell your family and friends to vote!!!

 

Broken in Plain Sight is engaging, entertaining and enlightening. It’s available at Amazon, Barnes and Nobles as well as Kindle and Nook. Too many of us are broken in plain sight and don’t have to be!

 

Thank you in advance your support and vote!!!

 

Bridgette

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My Debut Workshop

Last week I had the pleasure of hosting my first “My Mess Is Your MESSage!” workshop with an intimate group of beautiful ladies.  Nervousness caught me the closer I got to presenting of course and I had to “start over” twice, but I did it!  Attendees received a powerful testimony that touched their hearts and brought tears to their eyes.  They also created their own MESSage bags and were introduced to my culinary side and treated to light appetizers and fresh-squeezed lemonade!

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Here’s what they have to say about the workshop:

“Larie uses her mess to help us find the courage to share our own stories and let go of past hurts. My own mess has often times made me feel isolated, but I found comfort in knowing that other women could relate. We have our own unique struggles, but Larie helped us work through
our mess and learn from her message together.”

-LaShanda Henry, SistaSense.com

 

“My Mess Is Your MESSage!” helped me to uncover and acknowledge the direct issues keeping me from elevating my life and business.

-Rhonda Nails, Project-Push.org

 

“Larie's gift for connecting people and the spirit of our common thread is evident in her work. Attending the ‘My Mess Is Your MESSage!’ workshop challenged me to remember that all of who you are makes up you and what you do. Her workshop challenges the ‘mask’ we often put on causing you to want to ‘get real’ and truly start the process of loving oneself.”

-Katrina M. Harrell, Business Strategist & Best Selling Author katrinamharrell.com

 

“Larie's ‘MESSage’ to me was simply to live my passion and  purpose with pride. At the ‘My Mess Is Your MESSage!’ workshop, I realized I was so afraid to go forward with my passion for fear that people would laugh or make fun of my message. But after, I learned to deal with those issues, walk boldly in my gift and be determined to transform the minds of every person I meet.

-Anissa Barbee aka Taxchick, Transformationtax.com
Be informed!

10744082058?profile=originalAnissa, Larie, Katrina, Rhonda, & LaShanda

 

 

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How to Tackle Your To Do List

Are you an idea junkie? Sometimes I open my notebook and all of these wonderful ideas just pour onto the paper. At first all the brainstorming feels really good until I feel almost paralyzed under the thought, "What do I do do first?" And then there are days when when I don't need to write a list because there are already tons of things to do, so again the question arises... "Where do I start?"

 

Today I had a wonderful consultation call with a new client, who like me, is full of a lot of GREAT ideas but struggling with the "where to start / how to start" side of things. Our call today inspired me to write this post on how to tackle your to do list, based on my own personal strategies.

 

Always turn those can'ts into cans and dreams into plans
My web world is massive with blogs, networks and people. Most people look at all I've created online and think "I can't do what LaShanda does!" But I never think that, because I never say can't, I just do. This is true mainly because I don't try to do it all at once. Handling your business can feel like swallowing a big pill, until you start cutting it up into bite size pieces.

 

If you have a long to do list:
Take 1 to 2 hours to tackle small projects that can be completed in 5 to 10 minutes. Examples: Bills, Email Follow ups, Social Media Updates, Call Backs

If you have several major projects you want to work on find your focus by prioritizing:
Projects for Paying clients
Projects you can actually monetize
Projects you can plan, package, and promote that are not time intensive or expensive

Click here to keep reading.

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It is my pleasure to introduce you to Danielle Johns. She is the owner of Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice in Arkansas and is sharing her tremendous story of victory and success. She has gone from working in a hospital, being in an abusive relationship, dealing with illness, to being a proud, successful owner. She shares her testimony and advice for those of us looking for some motivation in our businesses. Enjoy!

1. Tell me your story. What were you doing before you started your own business?

Before I launched Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice, I worked 12 hour nights as a Unit Secretary at a local hospital for nearly 4 years. During my first year of employment I was badly bruised by the person I lived with. After removing myself from that environment, I realized that I had lost myself in a world that was not my own. I changed my mentality and set my focus on finding myself and my place in life. Things seemed to be getting better but I still worked nights and slept days. I began to feel that I was missing out on spending needed time with my children. In 2009, I was diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic with a blood sugar level of 1102. There aren't a lot of jobs in the Delta so I felt I had to maintain my employment, not just to support my children but to also be able to afford the lifelong treatment for this disease. I began losing weight and became deeply depressed. I began to think my life was coming to an end. I have had difficulty controlling this disease which has caused me major health problems. God has seen me through my darkest days. I regained enough strength to realize I wanted to live again. Not only did I want to live but I wanted to live happily.

2. What made you want to start a business and what is your mission?

A friend and I would travel from Arkansas to Mississippi to purchase Shaved Ice. One day while at the stand I decided I was going to open my own Shaved Ice Stand. I started researching companies, products, equipment, supplies, etc. In April of 2011 I purchased a building and had it delivered to my hometown. Just as I was about to complete the construction of my building, I was interrupted by the State Electrical Inspector for not using a licensed electrician. I was also halted by some bad information given to me by the County Health Inspector. I thought my plan was falling apart right before my eyes. I prayed and I prayed hard. I contacted the State Health Department regarding some regulations I had been told I had to follow. I was informed that it did not apply to me and that I could proceed as planned. Now my issue was to complete construction of my building and hire a Licensed Electrician which I had not budgeted for. I was contacted and told that there was a Snow Cone Stand in the neighboring town for sale. I reached out to an old friend and was able to acquire the building and open immediately. Snow Daddy's offers over 50 flavors and our 2nd specialty Taco-2-Go. We express appreciation to our customers by offering a Reward Card for free. When you purchase 9 snow cones you receive the 10th one free. My Shaved Ice stand is currently a seasonal business. In April, Snow Daddy's hosts  a Snowball Fest to launch snow cone season where we provide free food, fun, games and prizes and horse rides. Snow Daddy's also supports the Lil Jacob Learning Center's Back2School Drive as well as Global Youth Service Day. We are currently mapping out a 2nd location. Lol, who knows, one day there may be a Snow Daddy's near you.

My absolute passion is anything dealing with crafting, designing and creating. My mission is to one day own a custom furniture design showroom.

3. What inspires you? What keeps you motivated daily to keep growing your business?

My 16 year old daughter and 4 year old son are my greatest inspiration.

4. Do you have a mentor? Who is it and why? Do you believe it's important to have one?

No, I do not have a mentor; however I would love to have one. I have a support group that I turn to when I'm in need of advice or direction. I am a very spiritual person. I believe in God! I believe in the Word. I've learned to ultimately turn to the Lord for all my needs.

5. What would you tell someone who wants to get involved in your line of business but doesn't know how to get started? 

The Shaved Ice business can be a rewarding venture. I personally spent nearly a year researching because I didn't have a lot of money, but I was going all in and needed to make the least mistakes as possible. A high traffic location is key as well as a good product. There are many options for distributors however, I would recommend a company that's been in business a while and knows the industry.

6. What advice would you give to someone with an entrepreneurial spirit?

One of my favorite books is called Dreams Really Do Come True by Dennis Burke. Dreams are the God-given desires of your heart in seed from. Believe in your dream, embrace your dream, run toward your dream, refuse to let go of your dream, and ultimately you will live your dream. Make It Happen!!

Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice is located in Eudora, AR. You can visit their site and learn more at www.facebook.com/GoSnowDaddys.

I just want to thank Danielle for being bold enough to share her story. I hope it has been motivational to someone to go and pursue their dreams!

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Be someone’s motivation and tell us your story! To be featured on PeopleWhoProsper.com email Tamara@garrisonprosperitysolutions.com. Put PEOPLEWHOPROSPER in the subject line and share a little about yourself.

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