May 10, 2015

Mother’s Day – May 10, 2015

 The date; a reminder of the day.  I will be blessed to celebrate for the 30^th time as a mother, and another first; the first time in 55 years that I will not have a mother to send a card to. I no longer have a mother-in-law or grandmother either. 

Don’t worry, this is not going to be one of those sorrowful posts that say poor me. I know that there are many who have lost their mother, many who never knew their mother, and some who have challenged relationships with their mother.  I know that I am no worse off than many others.

As a matter of fact, I feel that I am one of the lucky ones. I celebrate this mother’s day for myself knowing that I will see her again. I know that my mother is able to do the things that she had trouble doing on earth. Things like reaching up, or any arm movement for that matter. She could be picking dandelions to bring in to have Jesus put in a small glass on the windowsill, the way we used to do as children – for her.

I was at a funeral of a dear friend last Sunday. Her son gave the sermon. He almost laughed as he said, “Mom would never want to return here, even if she could. Heaven in all it’s glory could never be matched.”  He sang a duet with his daughter, Colette, called Mercy Tree by Lacey Sturm, which was fantastic and gave me chills.

My Mother is doing what she always did best. She always prepared excitement for our joy and I am thrilled to see what she and Jesus plan. She is seeing the place that He is preparing for our arrival. She could be asking Jesus for a French horn (my favorite) to be put in the corner, or a picture and composition by one of my sister’s favorite composers on the wall. She is helping to set the stage for my other sister’s performance or the gifts that my brother enjoyed to be available.

 She had a way of making things extra special. She went to each performance that her children were in.

Starting with her first born, Michael, she went to piano lessons with him, recitals, solo and ensemble competitions; she went to plays, speech meets, and Musicals that my sister Suzan was usually a lead in the cast.  My younger sister, Nancy did the solo and ensemble, every year with her Oboe and Piano. I played flute at first, but switched to my much beloved French Horn. Mom and Dad were always encouraging.

My mother is going to celebrate the best Mother’s day with our Heavenly Father.

When she was still on this earth, and feeling so much pain, she told my dad that she was ready to go home with Jesus, and that he should come soon too. She didn’t want him to have to be alone here on earth.  She knew the best place was waiting for our arrival. Such love was shared in that moment.

This is taken from something I wrote right after she died:

 My mother stood in my hospital room and told me every day, even before I was conscious, that God had saved me for a purpose. This truth is what I continue to cling to every day of my life. God can use me for His plan. • I believe that I am better able to see the blessings in life. I will always feel a terrific gratitude for the way my parents raised me –twice - both before and after the accident, to love Jesus. 

This is a tribute to the life of my mom. Vignette's of a life.

                        A memory of her final days, from my perspective:

She called me, right after she fell in the bathroom, to ask for prayer. She knew she could count on me for prayer, just like my sisters. I call on both of them when I need it.

To have a family that can turn to each other for love and prayer is the most important connection we can have.

The last time I talked to her, she answered the phone so happy. I said, “Oh you sound good.” It was a short conversation that ended with my usual comment, I said “God bless your day”.

She said, as she always did “And yours.”

God did bless her. He gave her peace in perfection.

                                                            *********

A story in the book of Matthew tells of someone suffering that claimed our Lord could heal him if it was His will. Jesus reached out His hand and said “I will, be clean” (Matthew 8:3)

Aha. . . mom reached out her hand and grasped onto the hand of Jesus. She told my dad that she was ready to leave this shell of a body and go home to be with Jesus. Then she said the thing that will forever be on my dad’s heart as she expressed her forever love for him. She told my dad how she wanted him not to wait too long; and he should come when he is ready. She was saying that she loved dad and that she knew they could live forever with Jesus. What a wonderful way to express love and loyalty. The love they shared was mentioned at my daughter, Angela's wedding dinner, as an example.

                                                            **********

My father showed her the best gift of love by letting her go. He knows he will see her again.

What an expression of faith. She loved my dad, through trials and through joys. She loves her Jesus. Always has. She knew that as Jesus called her she would be going to see her mom and dad again. She was blessed to have parents that brought her up in the church and taught her the love of Christ.

She would be with dad’s parents also. Mom is with God waiting to greet me when I come. I know I will see her again, too.

                                                            **********

She told me that I was saved for a purpose and I believe that God can use me to fulfill that purpose. God can use you, too, to fulfill His purpose.

We may never know the purpose that we each have; we may never know the impact of our words or actions; and we may never understand why some things happen, but we can trust that God can take what we give to His glory. And that, my friends is what we can see. We will one day see the full glory of God

.

I believe in Prayer and I believe that mom is sending me Prayers of Love still.

May 10, 2015 A reminder of another first. ~ Happy Mother’s Day ~ Whatever your situation, God loves you.

GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day

Movement Marketing Summit, Encore w/ Aj and Andy #MMS15

This is my review of the ENCORE to the Movement Marketing Summit, an Encore hangout with Aj Amyx and Andy Zitzmann and Special Guests.

This final get together was a heart felt time of thanks from Andy and Aj. The Movement Marketing summit was a success that truly gave way to some life changing pursuits of the participants. The in-depth knowledge given from each speaker showed expertise in the topic at hand. From opening with Wendy Lipton-Dibner who focused on our impact before the money to the closing speaker, Michael Port, who shared his gifted way of enhancing our public speaking skills to create killer content and be seen by our audience; we learned. Each speaker was considered and timed in such a way as to enhance the skills of the listeners.

Aj and Andy, along with their team of behind the scenes movers and go-getters, developed a Summit to empart knowledge, skill, and practical calls to action. A few of the participants joined in this last hangout to share some of their take aways.

Denise Fisher: She shared an experience that happened in her daily industry that was a benefit to her. "It helped to have the support of the community to bounce ideas off of..... I checked back in every couple of hours, and got advise and ideas..... It was kind of fun, actually."


Seth Knight: "My biggest take aways from the Summit were some of the various techniques I learned from the speakers, about putting my thoughts into action.....It all came back to going into a funnel based system...I'm getting my materials and design all set for my sales strategy.... Focus on my sales funnel and getting an analytic based strategy ... I have seen immediate results.... Changed my lead magnet and helped me face how their problem can be solved." His goal is to reach a number by a certain date, and his growth is attainable.



Andy and Aj shared how Seth helped them with a glaring problem in an effort to better the experience for everyone. Andy said, "Community is everything. Build relationships. Offer services when needed."

Jennifer: Mentioned things such as posperity, mindset, engaging, meditation and strategy. "I'll walk away with a lot on the content from Michael Port, Sue B Zimmerman,,,,(etc).." She shared about the importance of community and clarity.

Aj challenged us saying "What are you working on and now, What are you going to do about it?" He added his feelings on the old adage "Knowledge is power - but that's not true, if you do nothing about it. It will change your lives if you do something about it. ... What is a goal for you that will stretch you and push you?" Launch your product... set higher goals..."How can you implement the efforts?"


Denise asked how you do a virtual summit with a partner. Aj shared that he and Andy were intentional about the flow, content, and direction of each interview. Clearly articulated.

Andy added how they used a spread sheet for all the logistics, ie. the speakers signing the speaker agreement, their bio and picture. Also, who would address what issue.
Andy was good at mindsets and sells - Aj was good at marketing and mechanics. They each needed the others expertise for their clients. This is what they suggest for all of us in the community to rely on each other.

Will Munroe: He worded his trouble with needing to delegate. He was focused on what was important with a problem. He was advised to join the group. To be in touch with the others to find leads in people. Get recommendations.


Aj- "Communicate!"

Rodger: "You can tell that the role of serving is in Andy and Aj. A skill that is ........ "The person that you delegate to only needs to be 70% as good as you. You might find a perspective that you haven't seen yet."


It was then that the "Training Camp" was introduced. This will be a step further for us to get the work done. Movement Marketing Summit.com/Training Camp

"Momentum is a powerful thing if you have that momentum, it is your responsibility to keep it going. Whoever it is that is giving you the momentum, just be honest with yourselves and don't be afraid to go out and get what you need."



GBYD  ~ GOD Bless Your Day

3 Angels In Heaven

Three Angels

Today,  my blog takes a different direction as I give the moment to remember three women that had an impact on my life.

Barbara - my mother.

Lorraine - a woman who was tragically killed in a car accident.

Jill - a woman who, at 58 years old, had a heart attack in the middle of the night.

Each woman showed me love with prayer and compassion. Each woman died, yet I was able to thank God for taking them home. That's what it does for those still alive. I know that each one loved God and had faith and trust in Him.

First, Mom. She had been suffering with diabetes and confusion. She had some really bad falls that left welts, lumps, and bruises. The pain she suffered with was extreme at times. She told my dad that she was ready to leave that shell of a body and go home to be with Jesus. Mom and Dad had a DNR order put in her records so she could sleep in the hospital bed. At the next attack, she was gone. I published a prayer that I said at her memorial service,  per my dad's request. There are many more personal stories with my mother, but those will come later.

Lorraine was moving slowly as she put her groceries on the belt. My attention was on her purse as she retrieved her checkbook. See, she had had a stroke several years ago and was just finding the ability to write the check unassisted. I turned from my register lane to tell her how I was very happy and proud of her that healing was taking place. She agreed as we both praised God. The next day, she pulled her car onto a road that a semi truck was traveling, unable to stop, and she was confirmed dead in a matter of minutes.

Jill had been a friend, my older sister's age. The two of us became friends when she dated my brother. We almost became sisters-in-law, but young love being what it was, it wasn't meant to be. Things changed for the two of them, but Jill and I remained friends even at a distance. A few days ago, I got word that she had a heart attack at the age of 58, and was gone. This is the note I wrote to her daughter on Facebook (social media).

Jenna Coleman, I ran across a story that I had written years ago. This story was written before my own mother passed away this past November, my mother was 84. Your mother was 58. There is nothing that this story will tell you that you don't already know about a mother's love and care. My words, or anyone else's for that matter, can't make everything better. It is only the trust in God that your mother had that gives us confirmation. My mother loved your mother, always did. I still have the gift that she gave me of the 23rd Psalm. Please know that I am praying for you and your dad. GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day
And now the story: Sad yet real life

Sad yet real life

I had raised the window shade and sat on my couch while typing on the computer. A sudden thump was heard. It was almost as if someone had deliberately thrown an object at the window. I went to look and saw a bird lying on its back on the ground. A smaller bird hopped along the bricks that lined the yard. Back and forth it stayed looking at the fallen bird, and back up to the house where it had hit. In my mind, I thought of the mom bird teaching the baby bird how to fly.

I imagined that I could hear the baby calling to the mom. “What do I do now?” “I think I got it now, mom.” “You were showing me one of the things to look out for.”

I imagined the mom had been protecting the baby. Perhaps by stepping, or flying, in front of potential danger. Maybe these were the same birds that I had seen a month ago and said that God would take care of them. The weather had been unseasonably cold. The new snow covered the ground where the young birds had searched for food.

I am touched by the possibility that God can let things happen in such a way that, even in the tragic times, we are being taken care of. Is it expected? Is it the way we had planned/wanted? Are we making the right choices?

When “No” is the answer to any of these questions, turn it around to “On” and remember that the Holy Spirit is “On” this. He has got it.

I will remember seeing the baby bird hopping back and forth. I will remember the feeling of helplessness. I will try to remember that God has a bigger plan; that sometimes the tragic happens. It is sad, but it is life.

Who We Need

This whole time that I have been keeping up with the Summit; my title has been before you.  I have been saved for a purpose. Everyone has.

If you wake up, you have a purpose.

Everyone has been created with a personality and learning type to pursue their dreams and future,no matter what that may look like. We are here to help each other. Find a mentor, seek out friends or colleges with a like mind or similar goals, someone who is one step further in the journey; these are the people from whom you can learn.

But don’t stop there, along with the learning, there is action. Knowledge is futile without execution. We can have the accolades of scholars, but if we don’t do something with it, it is all for naught.

Now, that does not mean that we have to have the exact dream job; the one that was planned. But if you take what you have learned, apply it to your life, in any circumstance, than we have succeeded.

However . . .

Succeeding is not all there is.

When we take what we have learned and share our knowledge with someone else, young or old, then we win the “Job well done” from our Creator. The underlying theme in the Movement Marketing Summit 2015 with Andy Zitzmann and AJ Amyx was that of building relationships to reach our goals in life and business alike.

• ·         It is in the partner who supports their spouse, giving in everything.
• ·         It is in the student who lends a hand to a peer to get out of the bind they are in.
• ·         It is with the parent who takes the child to the library to find an answer.
• ·         It is with the ‘friend’ or ‘teacher’ found online that gives a free demo of a skill.

There are many more examples that can be recalled, but the results are conclusive… seek help, give help. This builds trust. Businesses need this connection, it's the best way to work.

A quote from  Kimberlee Morrison put it this way;

“When a business creates content, it is generally centered around what the business has to offer. By offering promotions and deals, they are trying to reach out directly to the customer to generate leads and sales.

Sharing content has a slightly different purpose. In the context of social marketing, sharing news articles about the business or industry, trending stories or reviews, is an attempt to start a conversation with fans, followers and customers. Exposing the customer to the information this way usually isn’t seen as marketing, and could increase trust in your brand.”

As we learn, we share….

"A mix of both tactics — creating and sharing content — will yield the best results."

Thank you to Patty Farmer, for sharing the article, 'The Difference Between Content Sharing and Content Creation'. (a friendship and connection made) 

In essence, what I am getting at, is that we need to share information via the world wide web or face to face. We need each other to learn from and teach. (Warning: Some things could be misrepresented  on the internet . Proceed with caution.)

I discovered the amazing gifts, shared by strangers, to be life-giving/life-restoring.

I will share my story of how I was Saved for a Purpose next time and perhaps, you will be able to share your story with me too.

 GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day

Day 14 Movement Marketing Summit 2014 #MMS15

Disclaimer:

Remember, I am not going back over this to reword stuff, so it might not sound the best, but I  am doing this to be bold and building my confidence.

This is from AJ's  email to introduce our day. What we will be hearing today:

…how to enhance your public speaking skills to create killer content and be seen by your audience.

Even if you do not want a career speaking, this session will help you STAND ABOVE THE NOISE.

                                                                       

  Day 14

Today is the last day of the Summit. There was a live webcast (that I had to miss) with the best teacher, Michael Port. He started out playing it cool, downplaying each audition, saying things like "oh that script isn't that good" or "the part isn't really that big" etc. He realized that it was only a defense mechanism in case he didn't get it. He was only mediocre until he stepped out on his own. He had no choise but to say "I must achieve..." & "I must show up" AJ quoted Tony  Robins. "We overestimate what we can get done in a year but we underestimate what we can get done in a decade" - To that Michael agreed and said we need to be consistent and stay focused. "I also found that I can get more done in a month than most people can get done in a year." 

He said there are things to focus on two kinds of successes in life are based on getting them finished.

1. What we have to do
2. the amount of work it will take

There is a sense of urgency - Things get done when you consider it a project. Michael pointed out that there are no real "over night successes". They are people you just have just met. You didn't know them when they were doing off-off broad-way or working their way up.
He said that it is valuable to do something once you say you are going to do it. You need to be accountable to the people who are waiting. Be prepared for the problems that will come up.
 Sell something, go make it, if a problem occurs, always have a back up plus for you to tell the buyer "___ happened so it will be (a week) late in delivery. I can give you your money back or I can add (the plus) for free." (He said nobody asked for their money back)
Michael asked us "Have you ever had something so obvious that you don't see it?" So many were asked what gave him advantage when it struck him that he had been an actor. So his natural ability to be an actor helped him to play different roles in different situations with different types of people in stressful situations. His career in sales (or speaking - which is sales of yourself) was intentional. How he approached each event. Different roles that you are in life have got to be based on authentic versions of yourself. It is how we show up - be in the moment. Self expression. You need to be comfortable with who you are.  
It is important to see the Amplified Aspects of your most Authentic self. People will respect you and like you for being you and real.   
AJ pointed out that we need to be who we are. We need to show up and be fully present in that moment. 

Michael pointed out that we don't have to please everyone in every moment. 
When being on camera was addressed, he said you can't be a critic and a performer. There is a voice inside that tells you others are thinking that you are not good. Because you have judged others and think everyone is judging you with the same scale that you use. It is self defeating.
Are you more interested in

1. Approval - very difficult 
2. Results - not about you

Routines:

• "Am I putting on an act?" (Performing is not Acting.) If you are acting, you are not being the best self. Honest and Real
• Be an observer of yourself - be natural
• Don't get too worked up about the technical end of the right light or the best surroundings. When you  worry about how you look and the technical stuff you get too up-tight by the time the video is shot.

Communication and public speaking are a part of every facet of life. You will need to get someone to say yes to something. Your ability to communication matters! It makes a difference. People need to resonate with you. People don't buy your product or service, they buy you.
Take control of your voice. 

• literal - the sound 
• figurative - the message 

It is what you have to say with the way you say it. Courage is of great importance.
"The way you sound influences the way others feel about you and the way others think about you."
We need to listen to ourselves and listen to others to see if we can hear ourselves in others.
Fundamentally, the sounds you make is all in the air. You can learn the way to intake more air in your body which will benefit the way we are able to express ourselves. Create your own style. Be confident and comfortable with who you are.
Speech is some kind of content. There are generally two types of speeches.

• A message speech - makes you feel
• A curriculum speech  - gives you action

First look at the type of speech, then the framework, need to be supported by the big idea and the promise. Michael listed the different type of framework including 'compare/contrast', 'problem/solution', sequential, and modular.
Then Michael said something that took me by surprise at first, but really makes sense. He said, "Marketing is not what gets you clients, it just creates awareness of your product or service. - What you do once someone becomes aware that actually books your business."
You have to help people consume your product which brings me to another framework - by telling stories. A three act structure;

1. Circumstances
2. Conflict
3. Resolution

Most stories live in at 2. Have structure and intention. Have mastery of the frameworks that live inside you. Think of a key word or person that brings up a story like people, places, things, times, or events.
You should meet everyone in the room (shake hand) so when you get on the stage, you have a number of friends in the audience. It will help.
Set price of your speaking now so that even if you are going to do it for free sometime they will know that you normally charge, it will make you seem more professional. Also, other speakers are the best to get speakers booked. Ask for referrals. "Hey do you know anyone else that could use me?" Get introduction.
Michael was asked what the major don'ts were. 

• Don't ask - "can I tell you a story?" - best stories the ones the audience doesn't realize they are being told until  they are in it
• Don't say "I am happy to be here"
• Don't share authority that's in your Bio and don't add too much in the bio to oversell yourself. 
• Don't look where you are headed when walking there, on stage.

Michael gave us so much help for our lives, for high stress events, or other points of engagement. He has written a number of books and teaches on this very topic.

Thank you so much Michael Port,  for adding the value to our event. You were excellent in your sharing with us.


GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day

Day 13 Movement Marketing Summit 2015 #MMS15

Disclaimer:

Remember, I am not going back over this to reword stuff, so it might not sound the best, but I  am doing this to be bold and building my confidence.

(from AJ's email)

TODAY is all about PRODUCTION.

Hear us on this...

…Knowledge is NOT power. ACTING on that knowledge is.

Knowing something will never CHANGE the game for you.

DOING something with IT, does.

                                                      Day 13

Today the interviews begin with Steve Dotto who solves the puzzle of Evernote. He came from a broadcaster history in Canada. He is known as the most respected geeks in Canada. "Dotto Tech"
Steve looks at it as your Digital Bank Account. (for Andy and his anagrams, that would be a DBA) - Like your money, data lives in every area on your computer, smartphone, laptop, notebook, blackberrie, or tablet. Evernote can be everywhere organizing for you. Don't see the value in Evernote until a piece of data is withdrawn. We are all about communication. It gives us a Focus.
There is no right or wrong way to use Evernote as long as it is used.

Steve outlined the five steps to the Evernote puzzel.

1. Research
2. Organization
3. Mobility
4. Integration
5. Collaboration

Research is all about things that are stored and searched for. It can be a receipt, letter, meetup, business, or invoice.
Evernote is all about search. (Just like Google) Just start with an inbox. Put everything in there, Evernote will find anything down to a street-sign in an old photo. It doesn't matter where you put it, it only matters how you search for it.

You can then Organize data,
It finds:

• What - you need
• Where - you need it
• When - you need it, no matter where you are.

He points on the different tools in Evernote and explained them in a summary for us.

Being mobel: "Grab something from your smartphone."
Next say you are out in the world and you have a meeting with someone, instead of telling someone that you will email them the info when you get back to the office, you can instantly send the data to them from your evernote on your phone.
If you are in a meeting and put a note in the phone - access it when you return to the office/home.
You have Instant Access and Answers in real time.

Integration: "Scannable"
"Information only becomes valuable when we can share it"
Automatically scans business card - dinner receipts - any note on notebook that you have captured by picture.
* Evernote does geo tags. - where you are when the note was taken. All for free.

Collaboration: One can share notebooks in the paid Evernote.

SPECIAL NOTE: Evernote is cloudbased.  Steve-"Cloud based systems are absolutely secure for everything that doesn't need to be secure."

SPECIAL NOTE II: If you are a slob or unorganized, Evernote is a tool like a magic wand you can swipe over mess to pull everything together.

Thank you Steve Dotto for this terrific interview and knowledge shared.

                                      *************************

Our next speaker was Bill Hargenrader. His mission

His first idea is the values that include Love & Forgiveness. He says to follow:

• Passion
• Purpose
• Plan

He works with cyber security. Bill is a brilliant man with Perseverance. He encouraged us to find the middle ground in our businesses and the work you are doing to support your family and yourself. You can actually stay in your 'day job' at the same time leveraging your entrepreneurship. Andy added that you could learn and develop on their time, to which  Bill agreed "Make sure it's ethical and purposeful". Great plan guys, which brings me to the next point;
Andy said to ask yourself, "What am I willing to give up so that I can reach my goals in business?" It might be cutting TV or video games etc. but have a plan.

The Myths that Bill pointed out;

1. Some people just make a leap hoping there will be a net, Bill says build that net before you leap. 
2. The job will hold you back. Reality - be willing to move and negotiate your job or bosses to accommodate your learning and goals.
3. Self doubt - Bill says if you feel a calling or a purpose, Do It.

AJ agrees as he encouraged us to use the skill set within the company to grow.
Treat what we do as a carrier - like a training. If you are a lifetime Entrepreneur - It's a carreer.
Steps to building your entrepreneurship

1. Claim your website
2. Automatic Email responder
3. Claim social media space.
4. Sell services occasionally.
5. Network - reach out -example; group coaching. - find those you can click with. 
6. Help each other grow

P: Partnership- each person brings to the table.
    Policy- if you are allowed to work at an extra job, treat it as a hobby. -example; Volunteer at YMCA or Speak at work to help.
     Positioning- what clients can you work with - what area can you be in - where can you speak.

Make sure you are Ethical know the law. in what you do - Enjoy what you do. Read The Four Hour Work Week. Treat this like a business. (have a financial plan)- Relationships - Relationships - Relationships. The meaning we attach to things is a choice.

Get comfortable with telling WHO you are.

Thank you Bill Hargenrader, for being part of this Summit, and bringing in your love and value.

                                                           ************************

Our final speaker today was Peter Voogd. He is the master of Productivity who gives actionable content.
He wrote the book "Six months to six figures". Running businesses since he was 15. One way he started was when he ended up selling on ebay things that he had purchased for less. Made a profit. Through Team leadership, 'going the extra mile' he realized that he was being defined by a boss and his pay.
Peter quoted "If you want to be a millionaire, who do you talk to? Answer - Billionaires." "To improve it is not to work more hours - it is to work right."
Peter also claimed that he failed his way to success. Take action in real time.
When you are overwhelmed it is too easy to subconsciously get distracted.

1. Get clear - who you are, who you aren't, who you need. What are your values
2. Ambition can only take you so far.
3. Set your Big 5 - top 5 goals to reach in the next 6 months. (more tangable than 3 years or longer)

Challenges happen - challenges help you grow. You need mentors. Learning from your own experiences can be very expensive.
Don't move on until your plan is clear. Put your vision statement where you can see it. Be obsessed. Obsession can bring momentum. Scariest things in business are Momentum or lack of it.
Peter talked about the key habits to focus on.
Increase your confidence account. Always    Either helping or hurting your onfidense.

1. Habits define you - choises - growth in the moment.
2. Challenges to sharpen your perspective or lower your ambition; Drop the need to be liked to uplift your confidence. Helps confidence to know challenges are what comes with life. 
3. Confidence is in the doing. 
4. Developing identity with yourself - do what you say.

Follow rituals. Morning routine. To stay consistent,

Define the top 10 actions from this Summit, write them down, Find out the 2 that are most previlant. Set aside one hour in your day to go through them.  Master those before moving on and then repeat with another 2.

Peter gave us the plan that every thirty days, we need to decrease the stuff in our lives (things that are draining and counterproductive) and increase the energy. Do our one page productivity list. Teach something to others.

"Stress is a lack of results." So this is why I am writing on my blog about this Summit. Yes, I usually write things and go over and over what I have written to make sure it's worded the way I want it to sound.  By the way, the trial and test has helped me... Like Andy tells me, I shouldn't stop. I will continue to be motivated and go over what has been taught. Besides, the last day is tomorrow and I know it will be awesome, too.

Thank you for the great inspiration Peter Voogd. Right now matters.


GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day

Day 12 Movement Marketing Summit 2015 #MMS15

Disclaimer:

Remember, I am not going back over this to reword stuff, so it might not sound the best, but I  am doing this to be bold and building my confidence.

The focus of today's speakers was on Relationships and Connections. I took a quote from AJ's email to sum it up.

We can tell you first hand…RELATIONSHIPS with the RIGHT people are one of the things that can MOVE the needle in your life and business fast.

The first speaker today was Sue B. Zimmerman who talked about shortcuts to your Success and Networking to connect. She was so inspirational. Sue can explain the way to be connected in all social media. She is known as the Networking Ninja. 

She is on  every venue of social media that is offered. Sue connects with people in all areas to advance her business. By getting to know the leaders in her field and 'friending' them, on every digital platform, she is able to connect with people at events and other ways of networking. She is brilliant in the way she is relentless to connect.

Sue B does things with intention. She plans out her goals as she goes to events.

• Where she sits, up front or who she sits beside at a round table
• Has healthy food with her, like almonds - power bars - snacks , so she doesn't get hungry and leave at an important time. 
• Bottled water
• Look people in the eye and smile
• Don't share your business in the first part of the meeting. Build rapport.
• Tweet while speaker is talking to share the best tweetable things they have said. 

One of my favorite quotes of this Summit came from Andy Zitzmann, and Sue agrees, he said "My number one goal is to help people feel better after I leave them then before we met." and "Positive energy will promote the relationship."
Sue says "Stay connected & engaged." She did the work to go off-line - she worked with intention to be able to be invited to events and speak at events..... Dynamic!
#Hashtags are a way that people can be part of the conversation. Facebook groups are a way to shine in a group... "Giving shout-outs to other people are so much better than for yourself..... be cogniscent of joining groups" Makes sure you can get connected and others will uplift you.
On those groups, you can post pictures of yourself and important people that you have taken at events. Someone sees it and gives you authority. In AJ's word, BOOM!
Have intention! Genuinely love on people. Share there tips and pictures on twitter. Create an energy and fun interaction, network. 
The really cool thing about this is that this is exactly the way I have worked my whole life, yep, be a person with intention and build people up. You never know when you will be asked to do something important for .... say ... a Summit. :-) Love ya Sue.

Thank you Sue B. Zimmerman for the wealth of content that you shared with us.
                                            *************************

Then we had Primoz Bozic. He built his business from scratch from in Slovenia to top level through relationships . At first, he wanted to do it on his own. That was working ok, but when he saw that he needed to build relationships which helped him to improve and grow in his business to the top.

Myths busted;

• people lock themselves in a basement and are alone to break through to the top - Reality is you need to honestly invest in making relationships. Connecting with others to get help, advise, and authority. You need mentors and on-line courses. There are books to accompany your learning.
• If you drop of school, you will make it - Reality is, for Primoz, that is not how it worked. He stayed in his University and worked hard to advance. Primoz suggests that you invest in yourself and your business ventures. Invest in books, online courses, mentors, etc. That will help when you have questions such as "How often should I post?" "How long should it be?" "What ... How... When..."

Another reality, You need to know your focus, Have a plan, Focus - Focus - Focus. Something that he thinks is one of the best decisions he made, was joining a community group called a brain trust that included top notch people looking into the same questions and training that you need. 

Aj added "Association is power ...stop making excuses like I live in Slovenia and I can't ... You can always see new possibilities." When asked about the steps to building a relationship for your business, Primoz explained;

1. Find an On-line community - it will give you feedback and support
2. Identify the top 1% of the people in the community - those most active with the best advise - don't try to contact everyone in the group. You will get burnt out or overwhelmed with generic emails to everyone and drop out.
3. Think of how can I add value to them. Think what can I do for them? Even if they are a more successful or top.

AJ questioned a request to help someone using a childlike innocence in a point blank question. Many of the top people remember what it was like to be young and starting out.
     4.  Take their course, show people that you took the course, do your research, specific request.
          Be short and succinct. What and When. Shows Competency. Give referrals. Get referrals.

Thank you Primoz for being on the Summit and giving excellent advise.

GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day

Day 11 Movement Marketing Summit 2015 #MMS15

Disclaimer:

Remember, I am not going back over this to reword stuff, so it might not sound the best, but I  am doing this to be bold and building my confidence.

                                          Movement Marketing Summit

                                                         Day 11

Our first presenter for today was here to help us build a business by Speaking. He is the owner of Jason Billows inc. and runs Constantclients.com. He came from a background of theater and entertainment. He went through a dark time in his life, but he picked himself up and now teaches the tools and gifts of speaking. In business, speaking to a small groups or large can be beneficial. 

Two of the myths that Jason talked about are 1) getting paid to speak & 2) on stage speaking.

1. Your focus should not be getting paid to speak, because many times you get paid because you spoke. Jason talked to a small group pro-bono and the husband of one of the participants hired him to speak at a larger event. Many times, the recognition and authority can come from your giving and being available to share.
2. You could be asked to speak to a group of three, you never know where the connections could take you. (Andy brought up a story about Joe DiMaggio. When asked why he always played so hard every game, Joe said because  'little Johnny' has never seen me play and you don't know who he is going to become.)  So no matter who you are speaking to, it could always lead to something else.

Jason said that the more frequently he spoke, the more succinct and polished he became. (which AJ confirmed in his own endeavors) Always remember, if you are successful, you will get asked to speak or share your knowledge. There are 2 kinds of speaking; one you create for yourself and one people promote and ask you for.
 People that see you speak will look into your stuff
 OR
 you could walk away with leads.

• Make sure you have something to say.
• Know your material inside out.
• Make sure your material is organized.

Andy's addition to this idea; "You could be the best person out there or have the best system, but if you don't communicate it, it's all for naught."
Jason agreed saying we need to rehearse - rehearse - rehearse. You need to ask, what do you want people to do and have a call to action proportionate to the amount of trust that you have established. Follow up with the planners of the event and the participants (get testimonials - recorded if possible)

Thank you Jason Billows for sharing your insights.
                                                *********************

The next speaker was Erik Swanson. He is known as Mr. Awesome! Believe me.... the name fits. I have never been given a virtual 'high five' by a presenter and felt like he really meant it. 
Props to Erik for giving call outs to people who have helped him become who he is. He mentioned Brian Tracy, Les Brown, Roger Dawson, etc....
Erik says to diversify yourself. You need to surround yourself with the people that build you up and can influence your business. Start small and local then leverage other people's audience on their venue. 
Three Myths conquered:

• Not everyone who has a similar product or service is a competitor. Work with them in the same industry and be there for each other. It will really put in a good name for yourself too.
• Change the thought "I never thought I could ..." into "How can I ...?" or "What do I need to do to ...?" 
• Find a nice frame, put a "Best... award" in it and present it to the speaker during question time. (might work, but personally,  I find this a fake ploy.)
• Quality is better than quantity is really better in the speakers eyes as "...but lets do a lot of quality..." - Out of consideration for your guest, you should make sure there are 'Bums in the Seats' (people) If you can't sell out the room, get a smaller room.

 Erik also pointed out; instead of trying to get on someone else's stag to be noticed, have an event of your own to showcase them. He was also great in coming up with "Habit-tudes" to be the active way to upgrade your attitude. The Cash Cow Marketing blueprint includes;

1. Goal setting.- people in seats - niche' point.
2. Powerful speech and followup - leave them wanting more. 
3. Active with followers - emails - connect.

Build your business around your speaking - not the other way around. Who is on your "elephant list"? Treat them like gold. When asked to do another venue, the thought will be "Well sure I will. You put on a fun event". Erik suggests we learn each person's love language. i.e. He got socks for a guy that he promised to knock his socks off. The speaker loved the idea.

Erik gave super advise that we can use in any business and life!

Thank you Erik Swanson for sharing and giving the 'secrets'.

                                                          ************************

The next speaker was Dr. Sheri Rossenthal. She is an expert on creating retreats and adding major profits to your business. She left the practice as a surgean to a life changing experience for people needing to unplug for a week. She truly cares about the individual and their well being. The leadership that she provides in list building and finding a client/clients, will help you as a retreat leader in your future life.

Andy points out that Sheri is gifted in shifting from healer and coach to business maker in monetary values. 

She can target the mindset of the client/retreat goer to pick the location and activity. Be specific. i.e. the retreat for menepausal women to go to Paris and pick out loungere. 

Thinking of the price is a way that Sheri can help with. You have to make a profit for the retreat and think out every cost. This will be the best way to provide quality help and gifts to your client. 

Advertise on webinars, facebook, podcasts, radios, etc. This could be mixed with a PDF, lead magnet. Give your best. Everyone will want a different thing. Use a variety.

Serve people - Help people - Use add ons to certain people and tell them.

Make sure you deliver on each promise. They will love you forever - word of mouth.

Thank you Sheri Rossenthal for caring and sharing.

                            ************************

Our final speaker today was Roberto Candelaria, and he said Have Fun!! He was a brilliant man as far as sponsoring and advertising. He has been doing this and knows how to approach the potential sponsor of your event including podcasts, books, services, or anything. Roberto wrote the book "Relationships to raise money. A guide to corporate sponsorship." He has many corporations that he is affiliated with, yet he takes the time to sit down with Andy and AJ to help us see the advantage to finding the right sponsor.

His dad told him "The only difference between you and me is that I have gotten more no's. If you give up, you will never get those no's that lead to all the yes's." This spoke volumes to me as I will continue to ask people for things. He said we need to first focus on serving. We hold ourselves back thinking it's about us. It is really about those we help.

When approaching a sponsor, 

• Use their marketing ploys. Do your homework. Build relationships.
• Anything (hopefully legal) can be sponsored. Make a list of your target market or avatar.
• Find brands that wee value in what you're doing.
• Have clarity in the format. It helps to have the add in your head, but be open to creativity.
• Keep it short and simple
• All about them when asking to speak to someone - they may not be the right one, and they don't know who you are, but they know you are wanting to help them.
• Do your research into the company.
• If you get a no, ask what we could do to get a yes next time.

Decide you are Worth it. Don't be so selfish that you don't share what you have been given to share.

Thank you so very much Roberto Candelaria, for giving me the confidence to share my gifts.

GBYD ~ God Bless Your Day