I was in the grocery store recently. There were two young kids with their mom. The boy was about 7, the girl 4 or so. Like most kids in the checkout line, they were wide-eyed and grabbing candy bars. Even before they could ask, the Mom said, "Put it back, we can't afford it". With a sunken whimper, they complied and that was that.
For me, I just stood as a stoic observer, but inside I was crushed for the kids. They were just doing what kids do... testing limits and "going for it". But, the thud of the Mom's authority struck me. Their budget obviously could not withstand a frivolous candy purchase. She didn't say, "Not this time" (or) "No, we got candy last time..." It was like, shut 'em down, drop a rock on their head finality - and they knew there was no sense in arguing. They were being trained to "not afford it".
This simple example is how many people live... on the edge and barely making it. A $2 make-or-break proposition that sucks the life out of things. It is the daily wearing down of peoples' souls because the money simply does not exist to buy $2 worth of happiness. It is chronically being in crisis - day after day, month after month. It is the definition of being stuck, frustrated and miserable... and a candy bar is just one little example of the millions of ways this can play out.
We simply offer an option. A different, additional path to consider.
To have the tact and empathy to approach this Mom - and invite her to have a look at what we do and explain how we can help is just one little moment that may never avail itself again. This was a woulda', shoulda', coulda' moment for me. I didn't say anything to this Mom, this time.
These moments exist every day. Our role is to ask for permission and invite them to evaluate something that may be able to help them. In doing so, we potentially elevate peoples' lives. You never know, unless you speak - you act.
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Technology and Humanity
There is a saying in the online marketing space that "the money is in your list". The assumption is that the bigger your "database" of names is, the bigger pond you have to go fishing in. It follows that then the more likely you will be able to make money as a function of large numbers. Then, let autoresponders reach out to people with the latest and greatest offer. This is not our model. A large email or subscriber list is one way to go about things, especially for affiliate marketers selling other people's stuff. However, what we do is more focused on quality than quantity.
Said differently, our focus is on humanity. We strive to build deep and long-lasting relationships... not to interact with "names" on a list and see if the flavor-of-the-day might appeal to them. Please do not misunderstand, there is value in a large list, but it is not where anyone starts... and therefore telling people to have (or get) a list is fundamentally bad advice as a place to start. Obviously, the "large list" crowd would disagree.
Our model requires only 40-50 people who are fully participating to replace most middle-class incomes, and these 40-50 are built in a group, by the group. It is uncannily smart.
This is not a technology-driven large list. This is a drop in the bucket list that is driven by trust and reciprocal best-interests. Humanity is what drives our business. It is about helping people elevate beyond their current circumstances. It is about hope anchored to pragmatism. It is about bright futures being tied to daily disciplines.
Ultimately, it is about being genuine and real with people in terms of what is required and expected if one is to achieve success. This is the practical, human thing to do.
Said differently, our focus is on humanity. We strive to build deep and long-lasting relationships... not to interact with "names" on a list and see if the flavor-of-the-day might appeal to them. Please do not misunderstand, there is value in a large list, but it is not where anyone starts... and therefore telling people to have (or get) a list is fundamentally bad advice as a place to start. Obviously, the "large list" crowd would disagree.
Our model requires only 40-50 people who are fully participating to replace most middle-class incomes, and these 40-50 are built in a group, by the group. It is uncannily smart.
This is not a technology-driven large list. This is a drop in the bucket list that is driven by trust and reciprocal best-interests. Humanity is what drives our business. It is about helping people elevate beyond their current circumstances. It is about hope anchored to pragmatism. It is about bright futures being tied to daily disciplines.
Ultimately, it is about being genuine and real with people in terms of what is required and expected if one is to achieve success. This is the practical, human thing to do.
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Major in Your Life
OK. This is a college (or education) analogy. If you go to school, you are expected to learn things. On these things, you get tested and get a grade. Some people are honors students, some do the minimum and squeak by with C's and some fail.
Owning a business is really no different. The premise here is that you can choose to go to school to learn and apply new things, or you can choose to do the minimum (or nothing) and let the status quo be "your life". Note that the word "choose" is in both statements.
Now, taking this one more step, the tuition you pay (in real dollars) is next to nothing compared to a conventional college... and the education is essentially free. What you are paying for with what we do is access to a platform that aggregates and tracks people and money. There are literally thousands of these platforms.
The differentiator, the value proposition of what we offer is the culture and community that surrounds the money vehicle(s). It is about norms and standards. It is about shared values and expectations. It is about time-defined (daily, weekly, monthly) disciplines. But leave no doubt, it is all about EDUCATION and becoming competent, otherwise, the money does not really matter because the likelihood is that you will not make any.
This is no different than becoming an Accountant, Engineer, or any other Professional. You need to learn things and then apply what you have learned on a consistent basis. Said differently, you need to go to work every day.
Major in your life. Elevate your circumstances. Choose to change. Embrace the saying, "If it is to be, it is up to me".
You are not alone. We are here to help. If you need help, ask for it, no different than office hours with a Professor. When you graduate, you will have earned your "degree" in Life Transformation.
Owning a business is really no different. The premise here is that you can choose to go to school to learn and apply new things, or you can choose to do the minimum (or nothing) and let the status quo be "your life". Note that the word "choose" is in both statements.
Now, taking this one more step, the tuition you pay (in real dollars) is next to nothing compared to a conventional college... and the education is essentially free. What you are paying for with what we do is access to a platform that aggregates and tracks people and money. There are literally thousands of these platforms.
The differentiator, the value proposition of what we offer is the culture and community that surrounds the money vehicle(s). It is about norms and standards. It is about shared values and expectations. It is about time-defined (daily, weekly, monthly) disciplines. But leave no doubt, it is all about EDUCATION and becoming competent, otherwise, the money does not really matter because the likelihood is that you will not make any.
This is no different than becoming an Accountant, Engineer, or any other Professional. You need to learn things and then apply what you have learned on a consistent basis. Said differently, you need to go to work every day.
Major in your life. Elevate your circumstances. Choose to change. Embrace the saying, "If it is to be, it is up to me".
You are not alone. We are here to help. If you need help, ask for it, no different than office hours with a Professor. When you graduate, you will have earned your "degree" in Life Transformation.
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Resources and the 24 Hour Work Day
Ours is not a "normal" business unless you consider working around-the-clock as normal. We teach and preach personal branding, establishing credibility and being of value to others and the marketplace. This cannot be done in the absence of resources that enable people getting to know who you are and how you (we) think.
Once you establish a core set of resources (a bio page, an email auto response, a social media presence) these will "work for you" around-the-clock. But, here's the deal: they do not just appear. They need to be created, worked on, and refined. This is just part of the equation for developing into a business that has "legs" for the long-term.
If the person you are working with is not "engaged" in creating resources, you are being under-served. If anyone has been involved with our Community for more than 30 days and does not have a rough bio page that they can refer others to... their head is simply not in-the-game. As well, you need to be looking yourself in the mirror on this one.
You are your business. People will join YOU. The "deal" you represent (that is the financial vehicle enabling the exchange of money) is not your business. The community and relationships you build is your business. Without people who are engaged with and agree about core beliefs and values, there is no long-term business, but just a quick flip, buck-making exercise.
Your goal should be to build something that lasts. Something that lasts needs to be built on a strong foundation. The cornerstone of that foundation is YOU. Resources that work around-the-clock for you is a simple fact of life for a successful home business owner.
Our Community exists to assist and support in making it all happen.
Once you establish a core set of resources (a bio page, an email auto response, a social media presence) these will "work for you" around-the-clock. But, here's the deal: they do not just appear. They need to be created, worked on, and refined. This is just part of the equation for developing into a business that has "legs" for the long-term.
If the person you are working with is not "engaged" in creating resources, you are being under-served. If anyone has been involved with our Community for more than 30 days and does not have a rough bio page that they can refer others to... their head is simply not in-the-game. As well, you need to be looking yourself in the mirror on this one.
You are your business. People will join YOU. The "deal" you represent (that is the financial vehicle enabling the exchange of money) is not your business. The community and relationships you build is your business. Without people who are engaged with and agree about core beliefs and values, there is no long-term business, but just a quick flip, buck-making exercise.
Your goal should be to build something that lasts. Something that lasts needs to be built on a strong foundation. The cornerstone of that foundation is YOU. Resources that work around-the-clock for you is a simple fact of life for a successful home business owner.
Our Community exists to assist and support in making it all happen.
Sunday, September 16, 2018
Make an Impact. Make an Income.
Mission and money. Hmmm... What if the mission is money? Can making money be a stand-alone mission of an organization? Money, almost universally, is something that just about everyone says they could use more of, right? So, what if the core "mission" of an entity is boldly stated, "we exist to make money (for ourselves and for each other) - independent of the product or service that "legitimizes" the exchange and flow of it.
Well... that is pretty much what we do. However, in doing so - the more important aspect is (more to the point) of the "impact" creating a new source of income has on peoples' lives.
Call it what you will: transformation, renewal, metamorphosis... What we do does change lives. Some engage, learn and apply themselves (then) get into profit... then scale their profits. Some stick their toe in and then for whatever reason choose not to engage.
You will know you are "making it" when you feel you are having an impact. The money will be there. It an inherent part of the equation. Let your goal be to help people and impact peoples' lives. The money will take care of itself.
Well... that is pretty much what we do. However, in doing so - the more important aspect is (more to the point) of the "impact" creating a new source of income has on peoples' lives.
Call it what you will: transformation, renewal, metamorphosis... What we do does change lives. Some engage, learn and apply themselves (then) get into profit... then scale their profits. Some stick their toe in and then for whatever reason choose not to engage.
You will know you are "making it" when you feel you are having an impact. The money will be there. It an inherent part of the equation. Let your goal be to help people and impact peoples' lives. The money will take care of itself.
Monday, September 10, 2018
The Hot Dog: A Metaphor
We teach the skills to make money to people who want and need more money. So, what does this have to do with hot dogs? Well... not everyone likes hot dogs. But let me ask, is there anyone who does not need or want more money?
We enlist people and encourage them to adopt a common (our) strategy. We all agree that the "path we take" is sound and well-reasoned. We choose to be inter-dependent and create a resource by contributing to and participating in that resource. Some will agree and join with us on our journey. Some won't give us "the time of day".
Likewise, not all people choose to eat hot dogs. Some frankly, are grossed out by them. Not all things appeal to everyone. Essentially, there is a "finite universe" of hot dog eaters... as there is Ford Taurus buyers or Wrangler Jean wearers. Not everyone goes to the movies or has season tickets to a pro sports team... In each case, movies continue to be made, jeans and cars are manufactured and pro sports are not going anywhere... we could cite examples of "consumer behavior" until the cows come home.
So, one of the "raps" on what we do is that at some point, there will be no more people to "sell to". And, at that point, these "schemes" we market all eventually fall apart.
My point in response to this is that a garden not tended will be overgrown by weeds and choke out the tomatoes and cucumbers. No business will survive thinking you can set it and forget it. Any business requires ongoing care and effort (tending). And, as long as there is consistent effort applied long-term, there is no reason to believe that what we do is a "pyramid doomed to failure". This is poppycock. It is like saying hot dogs should no longer be manufactured because at some point, we will have reached the last hot dog eater. The argument is silly.
People will evaluate a sober proposal and judge it on its merits. We are proof of this. To be discouraged by the myth that one day we will run out of people to talk to is simply that - a myth.
We are a Community that has consciously chosen band together and create our "own economy" by sharing a common strategy. It will not resonate with everyone. But then, just like the point being made here...
Not everyone likes hot dogs. Not everyone eats hot dogs.
Not everyone will want to do what we do to earn extra income. There are plenty of people who will and this "resource" keeps replenishing itself in cycle after cycle of school bills and graduations, job loss, childbirth, new homes and cars... in all these cases, people need more money than they had yesterday... therefore a new "candidate" for what we offer.
Our job is to simply get information in front of them to evaluate.
We enlist people and encourage them to adopt a common (our) strategy. We all agree that the "path we take" is sound and well-reasoned. We choose to be inter-dependent and create a resource by contributing to and participating in that resource. Some will agree and join with us on our journey. Some won't give us "the time of day".
Likewise, not all people choose to eat hot dogs. Some frankly, are grossed out by them. Not all things appeal to everyone. Essentially, there is a "finite universe" of hot dog eaters... as there is Ford Taurus buyers or Wrangler Jean wearers. Not everyone goes to the movies or has season tickets to a pro sports team... In each case, movies continue to be made, jeans and cars are manufactured and pro sports are not going anywhere... we could cite examples of "consumer behavior" until the cows come home.
So, one of the "raps" on what we do is that at some point, there will be no more people to "sell to". And, at that point, these "schemes" we market all eventually fall apart.
My point in response to this is that a garden not tended will be overgrown by weeds and choke out the tomatoes and cucumbers. No business will survive thinking you can set it and forget it. Any business requires ongoing care and effort (tending). And, as long as there is consistent effort applied long-term, there is no reason to believe that what we do is a "pyramid doomed to failure". This is poppycock. It is like saying hot dogs should no longer be manufactured because at some point, we will have reached the last hot dog eater. The argument is silly.
People will evaluate a sober proposal and judge it on its merits. We are proof of this. To be discouraged by the myth that one day we will run out of people to talk to is simply that - a myth.
We are a Community that has consciously chosen band together and create our "own economy" by sharing a common strategy. It will not resonate with everyone. But then, just like the point being made here...
Not everyone likes hot dogs. Not everyone eats hot dogs.
Not everyone will want to do what we do to earn extra income. There are plenty of people who will and this "resource" keeps replenishing itself in cycle after cycle of school bills and graduations, job loss, childbirth, new homes and cars... in all these cases, people need more money than they had yesterday... therefore a new "candidate" for what we offer.
Our job is to simply get information in front of them to evaluate.
Saturday, September 1, 2018
Live Compassionately
There is an old adage of the empty vessel. From afar, it looks fine. It floats. It is doing all the things that vessels do... but as you get closer and finally board, you find nothing there.
You don't want to be that boat. Live compassionately, with empathy and generosity of spirit. There are plenty of hucksters and charlatans in this world. We need to be at our best and firmly perceived at the opposite end of the continuum from the cons and quick flippers. This is only possible if you are compassionate in your approach to others - in valuing their needs, understanding their circumstances and helping them understand your goal is to help them.
We talk a lot about moral posture. This includes caring about what we do as a mission, not just a "biz opp". If you are not invested emotionally, you will be smoked out as one who is disingenuous. Being honest in all you do builds credibility. It speaks to your integrity.
Many people in this world are hurting - their lives are a vicious circle of psychic pain from financial strain. Our delicate role is to cajole people into understanding that what we do is a viable option - to alleviate stress, not add to it. Some will see it. Most won't. This is just the reality of large numbers.
As you grow into and choose to wear our Community's mantle of goodness, I encourage you to think as Physicians do, i.e. ''do no harm". People do not need us complicating their already complicated lives. We want to be perceived as a huge breath of fresh air due to our candor and empathy. We are a positive force in the world and you are an Ambassador sharing a viable alternative for people to consider.
Live compassionately. It will serve you well.
You don't want to be that boat. Live compassionately, with empathy and generosity of spirit. There are plenty of hucksters and charlatans in this world. We need to be at our best and firmly perceived at the opposite end of the continuum from the cons and quick flippers. This is only possible if you are compassionate in your approach to others - in valuing their needs, understanding their circumstances and helping them understand your goal is to help them.
We talk a lot about moral posture. This includes caring about what we do as a mission, not just a "biz opp". If you are not invested emotionally, you will be smoked out as one who is disingenuous. Being honest in all you do builds credibility. It speaks to your integrity.
Many people in this world are hurting - their lives are a vicious circle of psychic pain from financial strain. Our delicate role is to cajole people into understanding that what we do is a viable option - to alleviate stress, not add to it. Some will see it. Most won't. This is just the reality of large numbers.
As you grow into and choose to wear our Community's mantle of goodness, I encourage you to think as Physicians do, i.e. ''do no harm". People do not need us complicating their already complicated lives. We want to be perceived as a huge breath of fresh air due to our candor and empathy. We are a positive force in the world and you are an Ambassador sharing a viable alternative for people to consider.
Live compassionately. It will serve you well.
Friday, August 31, 2018
Helplessly Hoping
Helplessly Hoping. Not much as a life strategy, would you agree? I was in a store the other day and heard a guy with all due earnest optimism say that his time to hit the lottery had to be near. Again... hanging one's sense of optimism on the lottery... go figure.
As many of my generation know, Helplessly Hoping is a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young song. If you will allow me to borrow randomly from the song, one line of the lyrics is, "confusion has its cost". Frankly, I am not certain whether it is confusion, lack of knowledge, lack of trust... but I am certain that there is a lack of something inherent in people not taking charge of their financial destiny.
Confusion presupposes that are different aspects to be confused over, right? As I think about it, it may be more apt to say "ignorance has its cost". This is not meant in a negative way. This is simply to say lack of knowledge about any subject can be costly.
As marketers, our job is to educate. As mentors, our job is to educate. As people who have a responsibility to "raise people up", our job is to educate. This is the foundation (and the reason for) calling ourselves a Learning Community.
We need to inspire people beyond helplessly hoping in real terms that are actionable and achievable.
That's what we do. That's who we are. And, at the end of the day, we get paid to do so.
As many of my generation know, Helplessly Hoping is a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young song. If you will allow me to borrow randomly from the song, one line of the lyrics is, "confusion has its cost". Frankly, I am not certain whether it is confusion, lack of knowledge, lack of trust... but I am certain that there is a lack of something inherent in people not taking charge of their financial destiny.
Confusion presupposes that are different aspects to be confused over, right? As I think about it, it may be more apt to say "ignorance has its cost". This is not meant in a negative way. This is simply to say lack of knowledge about any subject can be costly.
As marketers, our job is to educate. As mentors, our job is to educate. As people who have a responsibility to "raise people up", our job is to educate. This is the foundation (and the reason for) calling ourselves a Learning Community.
We need to inspire people beyond helplessly hoping in real terms that are actionable and achievable.
That's what we do. That's who we are. And, at the end of the day, we get paid to do so.
A Core Offer
This applies to people starting a home business who do not have a group of people with whom they are currently working. If this describes you, please read on.
Everyone needs an anchor - a home base - a primary program.
This has to be what you build your brand on - what you are known for - and what you unflinchingly support as your foundation. It is what you "lead" with to new prospects who are considering joining you. We recommend strongly that it is not "this or that"... but it is ONE THING that defines who you are, what you do, why you promote it - and is the expectation for anyone who joins you that this program is what your business and community are built upon - at its core.
This is not to say that in time you can not add things to your earning portfolio. It is simply to say that "out of the gate" you are consistent with your primary offer when engaging new people.
Obviously, you do not need to follow this advice, however, if you are looking to build a long-term, stable and prosperous business, it must be built on a stable foundation.
This stable foundation is your initial, primary offer that everyone in your community adopts and embraces equally and who have the ability advocate for it making sense as a great place to start.
Everyone needs an anchor - a home base - a primary program.
This has to be what you build your brand on - what you are known for - and what you unflinchingly support as your foundation. It is what you "lead" with to new prospects who are considering joining you. We recommend strongly that it is not "this or that"... but it is ONE THING that defines who you are, what you do, why you promote it - and is the expectation for anyone who joins you that this program is what your business and community are built upon - at its core.
This is not to say that in time you can not add things to your earning portfolio. It is simply to say that "out of the gate" you are consistent with your primary offer when engaging new people.
Obviously, you do not need to follow this advice, however, if you are looking to build a long-term, stable and prosperous business, it must be built on a stable foundation.
This stable foundation is your initial, primary offer that everyone in your community adopts and embraces equally and who have the ability advocate for it making sense as a great place to start.
Iterations
So, what does iteration mean? One definition could be doing something over and over until you get it right. Another could be successive approximations. Another could be the process of continual improvement or refinement.
A part of what we teach is to have an "About Me" website. This is a brief bio that enables people to get to know your story. It is the beginning of building your brand as someone worthy of trust and being followed. For some, this is a difficult task. Understood.
Here's the thing. It does not need to be perfect. As you refine it over time... it inherently evolves. This is a work-in-progress. Remember, you are "paid" in direct proportion to the value you offer. If you have a weak bio, your earnings are a reflection. This is the same as not having the skills to teach... but if you never set up the tools to use, you will never be able to teach someone else how to use them.
The point is this: start somewhere. Make the effort. In all areas of your business, you will not have "arrived" on day one, but it will take constant tweaking to improve. This is the reality... and most people do not have the persistence to stick with themselves if they don't see immediate results.
Effort equals results. There is no mystery here. There is no guessing. Everything is a matter of competence. You become competent by engaging in iteration after iteration after iteration... until you are confident that what you have produced is the best you can make it.
At that point, your money "issues" should be in the rearview mirror.
A part of what we teach is to have an "About Me" website. This is a brief bio that enables people to get to know your story. It is the beginning of building your brand as someone worthy of trust and being followed. For some, this is a difficult task. Understood.
Here's the thing. It does not need to be perfect. As you refine it over time... it inherently evolves. This is a work-in-progress. Remember, you are "paid" in direct proportion to the value you offer. If you have a weak bio, your earnings are a reflection. This is the same as not having the skills to teach... but if you never set up the tools to use, you will never be able to teach someone else how to use them.
The point is this: start somewhere. Make the effort. In all areas of your business, you will not have "arrived" on day one, but it will take constant tweaking to improve. This is the reality... and most people do not have the persistence to stick with themselves if they don't see immediate results.
Effort equals results. There is no mystery here. There is no guessing. Everything is a matter of competence. You become competent by engaging in iteration after iteration after iteration... until you are confident that what you have produced is the best you can make it.
At that point, your money "issues" should be in the rearview mirror.
What Would You Do to Save Yourself?
I once worked with a guy in a retail environment. He was about 40, had 6 kids... was articulate, knew his job and was good at what he did. At the same time, he was literally drowning in frustration and hated what he did.
Although he uses computers all day every day at work, he defined himself as a computer illiterate outside of the confines of the tools we used. I always found this irony interesting.
I have a pretty strict guideline of not mixing my home business with those whom I associate with on a daily basis. Nonetheless, when I have written different pieces for this series, I have naturally mentioned some of them to him. His lack of interest has always puzzled me.
This brings me to the question of this title. "What would you do to save yourself?" I mention my co-worker simply because I think he represents many people who hate their lives and what they are obligated to do (go to a job they hate) in order to meet their bills. It is the classic definition of being "stuck". Every day... year after year.
So let me ask you: what would you do? Our business requires a bit of risk of time and money... followed by doing things on a daily basis to effect an outcome. x=y. Do the things, get the outcome. It is not quite that linear at first, but ultimately with time, it is.
Save yourself. It doesn't need to be with what we do. Simply commit to doing something to save yourself... from the lack of money... from the frustration of having a job you hate... from all of the choices you need to make because you can't afford it...
What we do is just one option. The key is to find your "side thing" and make it happen. One of the articles I shared with my co-worker was, "You Can't Out-Earn Your Self Image". As long as you continue to define yourself as an hourly wage worker and see (or seek) no other alternatives, you will remain stuck.
So, let me ask again, "What Would You Do to Save Yourself?"
Although he uses computers all day every day at work, he defined himself as a computer illiterate outside of the confines of the tools we used. I always found this irony interesting.
I have a pretty strict guideline of not mixing my home business with those whom I associate with on a daily basis. Nonetheless, when I have written different pieces for this series, I have naturally mentioned some of them to him. His lack of interest has always puzzled me.
This brings me to the question of this title. "What would you do to save yourself?" I mention my co-worker simply because I think he represents many people who hate their lives and what they are obligated to do (go to a job they hate) in order to meet their bills. It is the classic definition of being "stuck". Every day... year after year.
So let me ask you: what would you do? Our business requires a bit of risk of time and money... followed by doing things on a daily basis to effect an outcome. x=y. Do the things, get the outcome. It is not quite that linear at first, but ultimately with time, it is.
Save yourself. It doesn't need to be with what we do. Simply commit to doing something to save yourself... from the lack of money... from the frustration of having a job you hate... from all of the choices you need to make because you can't afford it...
What we do is just one option. The key is to find your "side thing" and make it happen. One of the articles I shared with my co-worker was, "You Can't Out-Earn Your Self Image". As long as you continue to define yourself as an hourly wage worker and see (or seek) no other alternatives, you will remain stuck.
So, let me ask again, "What Would You Do to Save Yourself?"
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Difference Makers
Do this exercise. Put yourself on your death bed. Let's assume you have lived a long life. Will it be important to you to have made a difference? How will that be defined? Will you have had a positive impact on the world, or did you simply and complacently exist; conforming to what was "normal" and expected?
We are a Community of difference makers. At the most fundamental level, our goal is to make a difference in peoples' lives. We are driven by this purpose and are united by common values of competence and credibility, honesty and integrity, candor and accountability, and this is just some of what is at our core.
Do you care about being exceptional, or about distinguishing yourself in some way?
There is no higher calling and no greater honor than to lift people up and enable their new beginning. We offer one viable and realistic path... not the only path, but a solid one to consider if one is seeking change.
People in our Community come to understand the noble nature of what we do. We help change lives. We transcend the petty deal-making and espouse a greater good that is only attained through effort and perseverance.
We create change by backing potential and possibility with skills and disciplines that include mastery of tools and tactics. This is not "join, shoot from the hip and hope for the best". What we do is thoughtful, strategic and smart.
Make a difference by joining us, then, invite others to consider being a difference maker as well.
We are a Community of difference makers. At the most fundamental level, our goal is to make a difference in peoples' lives. We are driven by this purpose and are united by common values of competence and credibility, honesty and integrity, candor and accountability, and this is just some of what is at our core.
Do you care about being exceptional, or about distinguishing yourself in some way?
There is no higher calling and no greater honor than to lift people up and enable their new beginning. We offer one viable and realistic path... not the only path, but a solid one to consider if one is seeking change.
People in our Community come to understand the noble nature of what we do. We help change lives. We transcend the petty deal-making and espouse a greater good that is only attained through effort and perseverance.
We create change by backing potential and possibility with skills and disciplines that include mastery of tools and tactics. This is not "join, shoot from the hip and hope for the best". What we do is thoughtful, strategic and smart.
Make a difference by joining us, then, invite others to consider being a difference maker as well.
The Shrewd and The Naive
This post can quickly devolve into what many would describe as class warfare. OK, so be it. Let's call out oppression for the sake of profitability - and - the lack of conscience corporations and the economic elite demonstrate. Not much joy in talking about this, but here we go...
Let me ask a fundamental question this way: Do you think your employer is looking out for your best interest, or their own? Some would say yes, my employer understands positive culture and rewarding performance. These are the lucky ones. Most laugh at the question as preposterous. Why is that?
In the Fortune 500 culture, shareholder value takes precedence over everything. At the end of the day, if a company is not growing and increasing profitability, Management is forced to squeeze what they can control to maintain their "numbers". The first, most obvious and easiest thing is to cut labor... or to repress labor by short staffing, increasing production requirements and then firing non-achievers... there are as many ways to do this as Heinz has pickles.
The bottom line for you and me is that they depend on our compliance. We are relegated to fear for our paycheck because many are living hand-to-mouth, month-to-month. We are manipulated by a system designed to get the most out of us at the least possible cost... with the old notion that a JOB stands for Just Over Broke and as such, most are stuck.
I use the word Shrewd in the title, but perhaps what I mean falls closer to Abusive. The darker side of shrewdness gives license to executive and management compensation, with those contributing the same hours and talent (providing value) receiving a relative pittance. Nonetheless, we conform and keep our mouths shut due to the fear of retaliation, which ultimately could mean job loss.
Our community exists to simply pose an alternative. An option. A Plan B. Some "see it". Most don't. Here's a way to look at it.
At the end of the day, what we do is no different than giving birth to a child. When you join us, you give birth to the possibility of a new life. This requires daily care and attention and your life is inherently different with the advent of this new thing, whether it be a baby or a business.
Most people do not take this responsibility seriously and therefore fail. It is not the fault of the business model, it falls squarely on the shoulders of people who do or do not invest the time to plan and perform tasks... otherwise known as work.
So, think about your job. Think about your effort. Think about being stuck and droning weekly, year after year. Then, think about investing a similar effort in something you own for yourself and your family. Think about taking something seriously and changing your circumstances.
It is all possible.
Let me ask a fundamental question this way: Do you think your employer is looking out for your best interest, or their own? Some would say yes, my employer understands positive culture and rewarding performance. These are the lucky ones. Most laugh at the question as preposterous. Why is that?
In the Fortune 500 culture, shareholder value takes precedence over everything. At the end of the day, if a company is not growing and increasing profitability, Management is forced to squeeze what they can control to maintain their "numbers". The first, most obvious and easiest thing is to cut labor... or to repress labor by short staffing, increasing production requirements and then firing non-achievers... there are as many ways to do this as Heinz has pickles.
The bottom line for you and me is that they depend on our compliance. We are relegated to fear for our paycheck because many are living hand-to-mouth, month-to-month. We are manipulated by a system designed to get the most out of us at the least possible cost... with the old notion that a JOB stands for Just Over Broke and as such, most are stuck.
I use the word Shrewd in the title, but perhaps what I mean falls closer to Abusive. The darker side of shrewdness gives license to executive and management compensation, with those contributing the same hours and talent (providing value) receiving a relative pittance. Nonetheless, we conform and keep our mouths shut due to the fear of retaliation, which ultimately could mean job loss.
Our community exists to simply pose an alternative. An option. A Plan B. Some "see it". Most don't. Here's a way to look at it.
At the end of the day, what we do is no different than giving birth to a child. When you join us, you give birth to the possibility of a new life. This requires daily care and attention and your life is inherently different with the advent of this new thing, whether it be a baby or a business.
Most people do not take this responsibility seriously and therefore fail. It is not the fault of the business model, it falls squarely on the shoulders of people who do or do not invest the time to plan and perform tasks... otherwise known as work.
So, think about your job. Think about your effort. Think about being stuck and droning weekly, year after year. Then, think about investing a similar effort in something you own for yourself and your family. Think about taking something seriously and changing your circumstances.
It is all possible.
Monday, August 27, 2018
Freedom and the Right to Choose
We are all free to make choices. However, many times, jobs are not chosen but are more a function of circumstance. As a result, many stay stuck in their lives, relegated to a job they have by default and then rely on the relative safety of the status quo in the 40 hours a week for 40 years grind.
This is the expectation set by societal norms - and the value system that is most prevalent in public schools. It is the worker bee mentality of doing your job, doing it well, earning a wage or salary and making a commitment to this as an expression of "responsibility".
There is no arguing this, except in the context of alternatives and the right to choose. We do not recommend or encourage "dumping your day job". We strongly encourage doing our "side thing" as a means to earn extra income and offer a strategy to first equal and then exceed your current full-time income.
What we do is measured, calculated and predictable. The financial aspects (how the money is earned) is straightforward. The rest is a formula of effort invested equalling results derived... E=R. There is no mystery, it is simply a matter of choice. Answer these for yourself:
This is the expectation set by societal norms - and the value system that is most prevalent in public schools. It is the worker bee mentality of doing your job, doing it well, earning a wage or salary and making a commitment to this as an expression of "responsibility".
There is no arguing this, except in the context of alternatives and the right to choose. We do not recommend or encourage "dumping your day job". We strongly encourage doing our "side thing" as a means to earn extra income and offer a strategy to first equal and then exceed your current full-time income.
What we do is measured, calculated and predictable. The financial aspects (how the money is earned) is straightforward. The rest is a formula of effort invested equalling results derived... E=R. There is no mystery, it is simply a matter of choice. Answer these for yourself:
- Are you comfortable with, and do you see yourself living the same life for the rest of your life?
- Are you willing to integrate new things into your life?
- Are you willing to take a risk and bet on yourself in getting started?
- Are you willing to trust that a community exists that will help you?
- Ultimately, are you willing to re-define who you are?
These are all choices. You are free to choose. Answer the questions. Look in the mirror and choose to get going or to remain where you are. We exist to encourage and help guide your destiny. This is what is truly in the balance. There is a whole new world of possibilities if you are receptive to it.
Sunday, August 26, 2018
Keep Your Colors Wet
The reality is this. Most people are a dried, brittle canvas. In terms of life experience and expectation, the oils have hardened, the acrylic is set, or... the water is dry. Their futures seem certain as long as they continue to conform to what is expected and stay in their safe-zone of a job and benefits.
Most people feel "set" financially in meeting their bills and saving for Christmas and vacations. No value judgment here, I am simply describing reality. Most are "comfortable" with their lot in life and not seeking to rattle their status quo. We wish them the best.
In keeping your colors wet, it enables moving around the mix on your canvas. It maintains the possibility of the next brush stroke. We are a community who are malleable to opportunity, wherever it may arise. As such, we do/will not appeal to brittle canvases of the world.
We seek to attract artists wanting and willing keep adding depth and color to their canvas of life... to be open to the possibilities of what can be rendered, without having yet created it. You can call it risk-taking or intrepid adventurism... but simply know that whatever "it" is, most people do not have "it".
Our job is simply to expose and invite people to have a look: all the while welcoming their being objectively critical and thorough in their analysis. Here's why: what we do "stands up" to examination.
It is thoughtful. It is thorough. It is practical and it makes sense due to its simplicity. It is not high art, but daily brush strokes that over time result in mastery.
Keep painting your life. Create a vision of your higher self and expend the effort to achieve that vision. It is not about the money. It is about what the money will enable in terms of options. It is about enhancing peoples' lives with money being the byproduct.
The canvas is yours. Always keep your colors wet. Life is, and will always be a work-in-progress.
Most people feel "set" financially in meeting their bills and saving for Christmas and vacations. No value judgment here, I am simply describing reality. Most are "comfortable" with their lot in life and not seeking to rattle their status quo. We wish them the best.
In keeping your colors wet, it enables moving around the mix on your canvas. It maintains the possibility of the next brush stroke. We are a community who are malleable to opportunity, wherever it may arise. As such, we do/will not appeal to brittle canvases of the world.
We seek to attract artists wanting and willing keep adding depth and color to their canvas of life... to be open to the possibilities of what can be rendered, without having yet created it. You can call it risk-taking or intrepid adventurism... but simply know that whatever "it" is, most people do not have "it".
Our job is simply to expose and invite people to have a look: all the while welcoming their being objectively critical and thorough in their analysis. Here's why: what we do "stands up" to examination.
It is thoughtful. It is thorough. It is practical and it makes sense due to its simplicity. It is not high art, but daily brush strokes that over time result in mastery.
Keep painting your life. Create a vision of your higher self and expend the effort to achieve that vision. It is not about the money. It is about what the money will enable in terms of options. It is about enhancing peoples' lives with money being the byproduct.
The canvas is yours. Always keep your colors wet. Life is, and will always be a work-in-progress.
Saturday, August 25, 2018
The CIA
No, not the spies in Washington DC... the CIA in our world is an abbreviation for the words Competence, Integrity and Analysis. Stick with me here. These three words encapsulate most of what we do, so let's take a look at how they apply; and, why you will want to understand (and use) these words when describing yourself and how they form a part of our moral foundation.
Competence
If you don't know already, we are a "skills pay the bills" organization. There is no faking it. We talk about providing service and value - and - being paid has a direct correlation to the amount of service and value you provide. Competence means that you have made the transition from student to teacher and you possess (have earned) the skills to teach others. Competence means you consistently engage in business building activities as a part of your skill set on a daily basis. Competence simply means you are capable of transacting a process from 1) marketing to, 2) recruitment to, 3) support - with each having their own set(s) of tools used in each part of these three processes.
Integrity
Without integrity, you will not build trust. Without trust, you will not be a worthy business partner and have no business. Y/our brand must exude honesty, with the premise that we are genuinely interested in helping people. The notion that we are interdependent means that we rely on each other in the context of a community that has stated norms and values. A portion of these values is being conveyed here, through this article.
Analysis
Analysis means that we invite and welcome skepticism. We want people to look hard and what we do and come to a confident decision about being involved. Through this process, we will earn trust and create good-will. We want T-crossers and I-dotters. It's all good... and having to answer tough questions will only serve to make you sharper and more valuable. Therefore, don't shrink from peoples' analysis and skepticism... embrace it.
We are a purpose and values-driven enterprise. Our focus on community norms serves the very real purpose of putting everyone on equal footing. This is to say that if you are a part of who we are, you have something to offer people who consider joining you. At first, you legitimately lean on the rest of us, but ultimately (to be in business) you need to have skills to teach, behaviors to emulate and be a leader whose character aligns with The CIA.
Competence
If you don't know already, we are a "skills pay the bills" organization. There is no faking it. We talk about providing service and value - and - being paid has a direct correlation to the amount of service and value you provide. Competence means that you have made the transition from student to teacher and you possess (have earned) the skills to teach others. Competence means you consistently engage in business building activities as a part of your skill set on a daily basis. Competence simply means you are capable of transacting a process from 1) marketing to, 2) recruitment to, 3) support - with each having their own set(s) of tools used in each part of these three processes.
Integrity
Without integrity, you will not build trust. Without trust, you will not be a worthy business partner and have no business. Y/our brand must exude honesty, with the premise that we are genuinely interested in helping people. The notion that we are interdependent means that we rely on each other in the context of a community that has stated norms and values. A portion of these values is being conveyed here, through this article.
Analysis
Analysis means that we invite and welcome skepticism. We want people to look hard and what we do and come to a confident decision about being involved. Through this process, we will earn trust and create good-will. We want T-crossers and I-dotters. It's all good... and having to answer tough questions will only serve to make you sharper and more valuable. Therefore, don't shrink from peoples' analysis and skepticism... embrace it.
We are a purpose and values-driven enterprise. Our focus on community norms serves the very real purpose of putting everyone on equal footing. This is to say that if you are a part of who we are, you have something to offer people who consider joining you. At first, you legitimately lean on the rest of us, but ultimately (to be in business) you need to have skills to teach, behaviors to emulate and be a leader whose character aligns with The CIA.
Friday, August 24, 2018
Access to Economic Opportunity
This article is about tone. It is about how we present ourselves to people evaluating what we do. It is about "access" to an off-ramp on the highway of life. Some people will choose to read the road sign, turn on their blinker and pull off to have a look. Most will keep moseying on down the road without a thought of attending to what is passing by them.
Yes, we have something to offer. Ultimately, it can be transforming in terms of income, lifestyle, and options people have. Our ethos and values dictate that people understand that we are simply one of many options. We feel no need to impress others in a showy manner but allow the overall "tone" of what we do carry-the-day, followed by responsible, descriptive information.
We don't want to be perceived as the latest, greatest, whiz-bang deal that you want to jump on and get rich with. It is simply not that easy and does not work that way. Therefore, our focus is the friction. It is the work involved. It is the competence gained through skills and knowledge acquisition.
The overall mechanics of what we do are no different than many, many other opportunities. The value proposition of what we offer is how we go about posturing and explaining what we do. We offer a portal to Economic Opportunity and invite people to step through it to experience what is on the other side. Our goal is to be perceived as honest and measured in our approach.
As such, we are educators who provide information for people to evaluate. We do not need to "sell". People will see it, or they won't. This is the nature of the "game".
At the end of the day, the more people you expose to what we have to offer, the more money you will make... with the caveat that you focus on, and build productive relationships with people you bring into our business.
As the old saying goes, we lead horses to water... however, humans have a bit more brain power in deciding whether they drink. The point here is that we are "leading", not pushing or prodding. Inherent in what we do is to create exposure to people who potentially may be interested based on varying degrees of being stuck and frustrated with their lives.
If the time is right, if the life-angst is high enough, if the few bucks it takes to get started are available... or, if the "risk" seems worth the effort, then people act and join.
The majority do not. This is simply the reality of what we do. The predicate to your success is the number of exposures you make to people who may potentially be interested in having a look.
Yes, we have something to offer. Ultimately, it can be transforming in terms of income, lifestyle, and options people have. Our ethos and values dictate that people understand that we are simply one of many options. We feel no need to impress others in a showy manner but allow the overall "tone" of what we do carry-the-day, followed by responsible, descriptive information.
We don't want to be perceived as the latest, greatest, whiz-bang deal that you want to jump on and get rich with. It is simply not that easy and does not work that way. Therefore, our focus is the friction. It is the work involved. It is the competence gained through skills and knowledge acquisition.
The overall mechanics of what we do are no different than many, many other opportunities. The value proposition of what we offer is how we go about posturing and explaining what we do. We offer a portal to Economic Opportunity and invite people to step through it to experience what is on the other side. Our goal is to be perceived as honest and measured in our approach.
As such, we are educators who provide information for people to evaluate. We do not need to "sell". People will see it, or they won't. This is the nature of the "game".
At the end of the day, the more people you expose to what we have to offer, the more money you will make... with the caveat that you focus on, and build productive relationships with people you bring into our business.
As the old saying goes, we lead horses to water... however, humans have a bit more brain power in deciding whether they drink. The point here is that we are "leading", not pushing or prodding. Inherent in what we do is to create exposure to people who potentially may be interested based on varying degrees of being stuck and frustrated with their lives.
If the time is right, if the life-angst is high enough, if the few bucks it takes to get started are available... or, if the "risk" seems worth the effort, then people act and join.
The majority do not. This is simply the reality of what we do. The predicate to your success is the number of exposures you make to people who may potentially be interested in having a look.
Saturday, August 18, 2018
From Tinkerer to Titan
My view is that everyone should have a "side" something to make money. It could be painting rocks you find - and selling them at a flea market... it could be anything...
When considering what we do, we would be foolish to not embrace casual "lookers" who are at the tinkering stage of getting involved with something. Once we have their attention, it is our job to demonstrate that there is "meat on the bone" that is worthy of cooking and eating... (and) that can be a sustainable food source for years to come.
Going from tinkerer to Titan is an evolutionary process. Evolution inherently means transformation over time. In our terms, time means weeks and months, not eons. It is about things learned, tasks completed and moving up the knowledge and competence food chain.
Skill acquisition and then being able to pass along these skills is the heart of what pumps life into the success we have. You must embrace being a learner with an eye to becoming a teacher, mentor and role model.
You will be paid in direct proportion to your competence and credibility. If you are not learning and teaching others what you have learned, you are not in business. Our role is to transform tinkerers into Titans, and this is a noble and worthwhile endeavor.
When considering what we do, we would be foolish to not embrace casual "lookers" who are at the tinkering stage of getting involved with something. Once we have their attention, it is our job to demonstrate that there is "meat on the bone" that is worthy of cooking and eating... (and) that can be a sustainable food source for years to come.
Going from tinkerer to Titan is an evolutionary process. Evolution inherently means transformation over time. In our terms, time means weeks and months, not eons. It is about things learned, tasks completed and moving up the knowledge and competence food chain.
Skill acquisition and then being able to pass along these skills is the heart of what pumps life into the success we have. You must embrace being a learner with an eye to becoming a teacher, mentor and role model.
You will be paid in direct proportion to your competence and credibility. If you are not learning and teaching others what you have learned, you are not in business. Our role is to transform tinkerers into Titans, and this is a noble and worthwhile endeavor.
Everyone Wants What We Have
Yes, everyone wants what we have. The trick is to enable them getting it.
This begs the question of defining the "what" in what we have. Ultimately, this is financial security that has the potential to migrate to prosperity, then with time, legacy and generational wealth. And boy... does this presuppose a lot!
The nitty-gritty of getting there is explained in the posts in this series. If the math works... if the marketing makes sense... if the vibe feels right... if the people associated with your "thing" seem genuine and sincere... (and) if you are committed to doing what you need to do on a daily basis to make-it-work, then success should be a certainty, right?
It is just a matter of applying effort doing specific things. It is about finding people who may be interested in "what we have" (but/and) are willing to take the steps necessary to "own it". It is simply a matter of 1) time spent, 2) applying effort, 3) doing specific things. This is not complicated.
Your role (and your goal) is to find people with the maturity and hunger to find the time to do these things. And, at the end of each day, before your head hits the pillow, you will have the opportunity to ask yourself about how much time you spent applying effort doing specific things to build your future.
Our community exists to help you stay on target, to be an accountability mechanism, and to help and support you in making the transition from the person you were in the circumstances you were in, to a whole new world of possibilities. Most people can not make this transition and stay stuck in entrenched, habitual lifestyles from which they can not break free.
The question you need to ask yourself is whether you are the exception or the rule? Everyone wants what we have. Not everyone is willing to make the sacrifices and change the behaviors necessary to make it happen.
Gut check time.
This begs the question of defining the "what" in what we have. Ultimately, this is financial security that has the potential to migrate to prosperity, then with time, legacy and generational wealth. And boy... does this presuppose a lot!
The nitty-gritty of getting there is explained in the posts in this series. If the math works... if the marketing makes sense... if the vibe feels right... if the people associated with your "thing" seem genuine and sincere... (and) if you are committed to doing what you need to do on a daily basis to make-it-work, then success should be a certainty, right?
It is just a matter of applying effort doing specific things. It is about finding people who may be interested in "what we have" (but/and) are willing to take the steps necessary to "own it". It is simply a matter of 1) time spent, 2) applying effort, 3) doing specific things. This is not complicated.
Your role (and your goal) is to find people with the maturity and hunger to find the time to do these things. And, at the end of each day, before your head hits the pillow, you will have the opportunity to ask yourself about how much time you spent applying effort doing specific things to build your future.
Our community exists to help you stay on target, to be an accountability mechanism, and to help and support you in making the transition from the person you were in the circumstances you were in, to a whole new world of possibilities. Most people can not make this transition and stay stuck in entrenched, habitual lifestyles from which they can not break free.
The question you need to ask yourself is whether you are the exception or the rule? Everyone wants what we have. Not everyone is willing to make the sacrifices and change the behaviors necessary to make it happen.
Gut check time.
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Go Out and Do It, Before It's Too Late
Dreams can come true. It starts with a decision to get going. Then, a commitment to keep going... until attained. It is not a fantasy, but something earned.
"Pity the fool" who thinks it does not require effort, overcoming setbacks, handling the sense of being overwhelmed, getting stuck and then unstuck... and all of the peaks and valleys that are an inherent part of growth. Nothing is a straight linear progression, but in many instances is two steps forward, one step back. It all good - this is when and where the learning takes place.
Decide. Commit. If you join us, you will be in a good place, however, it does not need to be with us. Find something you are comfortable with and get going. The clock inexorably ticks, however if you are not motivated to excel or exceed your current circumstances the weeks and months will turn into years and decades.
Waiting for the time to be right? It never will be - and might as well be now.
Decisions are a function of information. Gather information. Analyze it. Then decide and get going. It is better to regret having done something than to regret never having done anything at all.
Chop, chop. Get cookin'. If you want to eat - gather what it takes and, get cookin'.
"Pity the fool" who thinks it does not require effort, overcoming setbacks, handling the sense of being overwhelmed, getting stuck and then unstuck... and all of the peaks and valleys that are an inherent part of growth. Nothing is a straight linear progression, but in many instances is two steps forward, one step back. It all good - this is when and where the learning takes place.
Decide. Commit. If you join us, you will be in a good place, however, it does not need to be with us. Find something you are comfortable with and get going. The clock inexorably ticks, however if you are not motivated to excel or exceed your current circumstances the weeks and months will turn into years and decades.
Waiting for the time to be right? It never will be - and might as well be now.
Decisions are a function of information. Gather information. Analyze it. Then decide and get going. It is better to regret having done something than to regret never having done anything at all.
Chop, chop. Get cookin'. If you want to eat - gather what it takes and, get cookin'.
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