Your Winners Circle

Getting Back to the Basics from Gardening to Parenting and Everything in between

This is the tag line for an amazing website that tells the story of a family who is choosing to look for a healthier more natural way of taking care of themselves and raising their two boys.  "This is a story about change, responsibility, and above all, hope… just one family’s transformation fueled by a simple hope for a better future for themselves and their planet." says Michelle of Phoenix, Arizona.  And change it is.

Some time ago this family was featured as one of five family that competed for the most frugal family in the Valley of the Sun by the Phoenix Gazette newspaper. They did not win as their online vote count did not quite top the charts but that did not stop the Wanders family.  They began to create their own homestead and their progress, Natural Wanderings is well worth following as they venture into the world of micro farming.

Michelle, the mom of two boys left her career as a speech language pathologist to give her family the best of her in their growing years. Dave who works for an insurance company spends his off time preparing what once was a green and grassy back yard into their homestead.  The two work together and believe that God will bless this return to natural living and I believe this as well.  This is a huge undertaking but with the attention of health care nutritionists turning more to natural foods, this family is on the right track.

    

Michelle plans to share information on gardening and the raising of her new family edition...the chickens...as well as her two sons as the visions and dreams turn into reality.  She will also share the newest resources as she finds them and photos to allow you to watch the progress as well.  Success has already been had as you see her pictured beside the sunflowers they grew last season. 

 

After 50 Years They Are Still Performing

Just recently I had the opportunity to see a concert being performed by none other than The Four Tops and The Temptations.  And what a show it was.  The arena was full and everyone was enjoying the sounds of yesteryear and the dance moves as the two groups brought back the memories. 

 Both groups were founded in Detroit, Michigan, The Four Tops as The Four Aims with Lead singer, Levi Stubbs and groupmates Abdul "Duke" Fakir, Renaldo "Obie" Benson and Lawrence Payton. They remained together for over four decades, having gone from 1953 until 1997 without a single change in personnel. Lawrence Payton died on June 20, 1997 and the band continued with only three members using the name The Tops before Theo Peoples, who sang for The Temptations, was brought in as the new fourth member. Stubbs had a stroke in 2000 he was replaced by Ronnie McNeir and on July 1, 2005, "Obie" Benson died of lung cancer. That is when Lawrence Payton's son Roquel Payton joined the group. As of 2006, Fakir, McNeir, Payton, and Peoples are still performing together as the Four Tops. Levi Stubbs eventually died on October 17, 2008 leaving Fakir the only founding member of the original group.

The Temptations started out in 1960 as the Primes and the Elgins, then they changed their name to the Temptations around 1964. They have always featured at least five male vocalists/dancers. The group was known for their recognizable choreography, harmonies, and flashy onstage suits. They sold tens of millions of albums and are one of the most successful groups in music history.  As of 2010, the Temptations continue to perform and record for Universal Records with its only living original member, Otis Williams, still in their lineup.

At Motown's 25th Anniversary special in 1983, a singing competition was set up between the Temptations and the Four Tops and the groups poked fun at each other while alternating songs. They joined together for a medley of hits. This act proved so popular that the two groups began a "Tempts vs. Tops" tour that has gone on periodically for 20 years and has been seen by millions of their fans.

Now they did not perform together but had two separate shows the night I saw them but they both were phenominal none the less.  The Four Tops opened the evening doing many of the hits that made them famous. Even down to the dance moves. They called some of the audience to the stage and shook hands as they completed their show.  I was one of those that was up front and had the opportunity to shake the hand of each member. The story of the Four Tops is a story of group harmony, on and off the stage. And after 50 years, when fans still reach out, the Four Tops are still there.  During an interview  in January 2010, "Duke" confirmed plans for the "new" Four Tops to release a new album.    

The Temptations finished the evening doing again what they do best...sing and dance, bringing back the memories of their best known songs including "My Girl" (1965), "Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)" (1971) and "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone" (1972),   The audience stood and dance right along with them, me included.  Again when the opportunity came to be at the stage...I was there to shake each hand of the legends that shared the stage. 

Talk about winning teams!  Can you imagine doing what you do with the same people for 50 years. And bringing joy to the hearts of millions in the process. I am sure that through the years they had their up and downs but they never quit and continue to this day. 

The Power Of Intention Is Real And It is Mighty Especially When Expressed

Just recently I had the opportunity to experience the power of intention in a very amazing way.  I recieve VIP invitations to a variety of social and networking events and one particular event being held at Lavo at the Palazzo Hotel in Las Vegas was giving away a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes.  I RSVP'd for two and took a friend with me reminding her to bring a business card to put in for the drawing. 

We arrived early (as all Goddesses should) and I have to admit that I did not know what Jimmy Choos were but told my friend that I was going to win those shoes.  She laughed at me and politely informed me that they are spoken about all the time on "Sex in The City" and were very expensive shoes. She laughed even more when I informed her that I did not watch that TV show either.  But I truely believed that I was going to win those shoes.  We enjoyed cocktails, chatted with old friends and made a few new ones as well.  When the evening came to an end someone came to me and told me that some girl named Bonnie won the shoes however when I inquired about the winner, no one seemed to be able to give me an answer so we left and went home.

One week later I wrote an email to the sponsors to learn who the winner was to find out it was in fact ME!  I was so excited.  This was truely a display of the power that a spoken intention is and the testimony it was for someone who was unsure of the power a person can hold when they truely believe.  We went back to Lavo to celebrate the success and enjoy my beautiful pair of Jimmy Choos!

Just last evening we attended another mixer where a membership was being given in a drawing.  I did not have a business card handy so my same friend wrote my name on one for the sponsors business card and tossed it in the pitcher.  When the drawing came she and I watched as the card that was drawn had my business card struck for brief moment then it fell back into the pitcher.  The difference between the two drawings was that in my heart I did not truely want to win the membership. I believed I could.  But the testimony spoke loudly of the power that even a half hearted intention can porduce. What are your intentions saying to yourself and those around you.  It is not enough to just think them, you must speak them and above all believe in them and you too will be blessed with that which you believe.

There Is Still One Place You Can Go In The Midst Of Your Storm

I have not met this man but I know the family he married into just a short while ago.  After hearing his testimony I realized that there are times when we think we are the only ones going through hardships and trials.  However, many I know and many I continue to meet share the difficulties that they not only had as children but experience as adults. And listening to Coffey's story reminded me that through good times as well as the not so good. there is still a peace and a comfort when you return back to the loving arms of God.

When you rest in the assurance that nothing can happen to you that a mighty yet merciful God will get you through, your faith is enough to move the mountain that stand in front of you.  As Coffey says, we may not be perfect or do perfect things but when you are a believer you serve a Perfect God.   

Coffey is a singer/songwriter and married to the daughter of one of my best friends and you can get a free copy of one of his tunes at iCoffey.com . Everyday we all need a little inspiration!

Coffey Testimony from Zyxter on Vimeo.

When Others Come To You For Advice, Think Of It As A True Compliment

The hectic tasks during the workday tend to keep most trying to focus on their end result.  Workloads seem to be on the rise and there are less people to get the jobs done.  Then out of nowhere someone comes to ask for your advice or your expertise on something and you world and momentum comes to a screeching halt.  Your time and space have now been invaded upon.

 When others come to you for advice, think of it as a true compliment instead of an intrusion. After all, if they knew how to accomplish something and do it the right way they would not need your help or advice in the first place.  And they feel you are enough of an expert or have good enough advice to trust your input.  That in itself is a compliment.  The most successful people in the world share what they know to enhance the lives of others.  They believe in encouraging people to take their lives and businesses to the next level. You may not always see the seed grow that you plant but they will grow none the less.

There comes a point in time when enpugh is enough and you have to determine and prioritize your tasks and your day.  The value of what you have to offer and your ability to accomplish what is at hand must be a prime focus if you are to succeed at anything properly.  With the downsizing of companies and the surmounting fear of layoffs, people forget what is really important when it comes to the quality of the end result.  They try to cram so much in that quality takes a back seat to quantity.  So when someone comes to you and requests your advice and input, sit back take a minute and share what you know and what you have learned.  You will not only breathe long enough to refocus and appreciate the compliment but you could contribute to someone elses future with just a few minutes of your time.

Recognize Opportunity Where There Seems To Be Limitation

How many times have you actually said to yourself...."How in the world am I going to do this?" This is a common question to all of us from time to time. Where have you gotten stuck in your thinking and is your being stuck let opportunity pass you by. Some people have fear about not knowing enough, being enough, didn't know where to begin, weren't quite ready, and the list goes on. The only way to reach the goal you set for yourself is to begin it right now.Take the first step toward it no matter if you know the final answers or not. Action will create momentum and momentum will create an ability to power through any adversity you may perceive along your way. Just remember one thing there's always a way for you to have all that you desire. The answers are right inside you so stop telling yourself you can't and start telling yourself that you can! Everywhere you are there is a power and presence that is in line with the real magnificence of who you are. This power is unlimited in its wisdom, imagination, creativity, and desire to bring out in you the best you that you can be. No matter what may appear on the surface, you have all the tools you need to build the life that you have been dreaming about. Remember one thing, you wouldn't be able to dream something if you didn't already have that dream inside of you. It is so easy to give up and throw in the towel when you come up against a challenge you percieve is bigger than you believe you can overcome. That's the exact time that you must ramp up your desire for success and find the ways you need to turn those challenges into opportunities. You can do it. No matter what you my think about hard situations you always have the choice to think of the solutions to get you through them. There's always a way to make your day the very best it can be when you start to say yes to all the excellence that you are and step into the spirit that brought you here. Express all the greatness you are and start today.

Peak Potentials Training Steps Up To The Plate to Help The Relief Efforts In Haiti

Just recently, Peak Potentials Training held one of their personal/wealth development courses called Life Directions, Mission to Millions in Los Angeles, California.  Some 700 people participated in a three day course and for some it was life changing. During the course of the event, communication came from the home office located in Vancouver, Canada that they decided to not only take donations for the relief efforts in Haiti but they were going to match the donations, dollar for dollar of those given by the participants. 

As the first day progressed, donations came in but not in leaps and bounds as the people attending were focusing on the processes at hand and their own personal and professional growth. On the second day of the course there was about the same amounts of donations that came in throughout the day but not significantly large in proportion of the amount of people attending.  But as they grew in their learning and their own visions,  missions and purposes the amounts began to grow as well.  By the end of the course on the third day, these individuals raised over $20,000 and show just what can be done with alittle bit of hope and a lot of belief. Peak Potentials will match that amount but decided not to stop there.  For the people who volunteer to assist at the various events throughout the year they are being giving an invitation to contribute as well to raise the total to over $50,000. 

This is an outstanding effort along with the many others that are being developed by a number of groups and organizations throughout our country.  Together we can change not only ourselves and our country but we can help change situations in other parts of the world.  I am proud to be a part of a people who can unite in the face of disaster and reach out to assist another nation. 

I have seen several entrepreneurs making efforts to contribute as well so I have decided to add to the efforts by offering that for each of my journals that is purchased between now and February 28, 2010, all the monies will be added to the donations of Peak Potentials Training so that they too can be met dollar for dollar which means...for each 365 Days of Successes Journal purchased to celebrate the successes in your life, double the amount will also help to change the lives of those left behind by the disaster in Haiti.  Help me Help them Help Others! 

Being Offended By Others Helping You Is A Sign Of Insecurity

Maybe you have notice that you are around or work with people who are always asking you if you are supposed to be assisting them or are THEY not supposed to be heading up a particular project.  They are always questioning why you are doing something and implying that you are stepping on their toes or over stepping their authority.  Sometimes you may just be lending a hand till the appropriate person shows up to take over to complete the task.

Maybe you were sent to help another person and that particular person asks why you of all people were sent or asked to assist.  This is a form of insecurity and can cripple you in relationships either personal or in the workplace.  Sometimes it comes from someone who is your equal in position and sometimes it can even come from a supervisor. Their indication is that you are trying to take their job or are stepping on their toes and implying that they can not do their job effectively or efficiently. Most of the time this is not the case and is a matter of honest and sincerely assistance.  Are you one of these people?

Confidence in yourself and the courage to receive assistance is the sign of a great leader. This person can not only deligate task but can accept assistance when others are willing with grace and ease.  There is no need to be threatened  when you empower those around you to be a part of the overall project.  If someone rises above the task given to them, that is an indication that you are also an outstanding teacher as well as a leader.  It is an honor to have other model after you and your princilples.  Be a role model is one of the greatest compliments that your peers can bless you with.

So when you get the inclination to be offended when others attempt to assist or take the initiative to take on a task without being told, pause and empower those individuals to continue to rise to the occasion and the next level. And when they do they are a reflection of the one who taught them along their journey.  Appreciate their efforts and determination to succeed and all of you will be winners at days end.

Sometimes You Have To Clean Up Your Own House First

This weekend I had the opportunity of not only meeting but working hand in hand with an amazing woman who has an enonormous heart and is a winner in her own right.  She is a wife, a mother, a speaker, and an author.  Her name is Loren Slocum and I met her at the Author 101 Seminar held in Las Vegas, Nevada as she shared with the attendees her story and the principles she trains on.

She expresses that many of us make it so hard for us to win by focusing on the not so great things that are in our lives instead of that which is great.  Loren does not believe that a person needs a whole life make over, all a person needs is "just a little tweeking here and there". This is the name of her newest book "Life Tuneups".  She remind people that the most important thing a person can do is to take care of themselves first.  You cannot give what you do not have.

Another thing that is covered in her book is how important it is to create a compelling vision for yourself.  This is not new andis taught by may leaders in the personal development industry.  She tells you to ask yourself, "Who do I have to become to be the person who is healthy and alive".  Use your vision board to constantly remind yourself of what is working great in your life. And always stay true to who you are. 

Her story is outstanding and she believes that sometimes you just have to redicover who you are and what you really stand for.  It was a gentle reminder that I too need to stay tuned and tuned up to give back to the world all that I have to offer.

You Create More Success By Making Others Feel Great About Themselves

The economy continues to spiral downward and with it goes the esteem of the general public.  Many are loosing their jobs and their homes and having to start over in a world full of uncertainty.  So the question presnted to me was how do you become or remain successful in a falling and broken economy?  The answer is actually very simple.

Everyone wants to feel good about themselves.  Especially when the rest of the world around them is falling apart.  Success is created when you go out of your way to assist or encourage someone else.  Even if it is not immediate, those that you reach out to will not forget you and will trust you in the future with their purchases.  When it stops being just about the money, the Universe will bend over backwards to bring back to you in like fashion all that you give.  Call it the Law of Attraction or whatever you choose, the fact of the matter is that it is true.  Abundance comes to those whose give the same, no matter what it is.  It may be time, it may be training and it may just be money as well...but it is something. 

Making people feel great about themselves creates a fundation for the future whether it is yours or that of another.  Also as a two fold blessing, you feel great about yourself and will project that to those around you.  And again...like attracts like whether you like it or acknowledge it or not.  That confidence shows up in your success as well.  Those who might not normally purchase from you will either do so or refer others who have a need and a desire for what you are promoting in your business. 

Think about it.....When was that last time you met someone and were so comfortable with them and felt a sense of trust then purchased from them or someone they recommended.  The achievemnet level rises when a person feels not only good but great about themselves.  If you do not feel that way about yourself..it looks like there may be some work to do on your part.  Once you establish that presence you will see the difference in the world around you.  So if you want to be more success in this faultering economy get in the business of making people feel great about themselves and the rest of your success is a matter of time.