Are people telling you to get online, join Facebook or that you should be tweeting?
Do you know why you should be doing these things? Simple! You may not really understand why you need to be on Twitter, Facebook, Linked In, Digg, Gain Net (for my local folks).
You may not know where all the free sites are out there. And, you may not think you need to know. Marketing today has drastically changed for everything you buy or sell.
Let me give you a very simple explanation I gave to a client today that helped him see how social media works. This is a very simple explanation!
1. Assume you are a cattle farmer and have 100 head of cattle that needs to have their shots today!
2. You hire several assistants to help you drive all of that cattle to the shoot where you are standing by to give them the shot they need for what ails them. As they enter the shoot one at a time you give them the shot and they jump out feeling exuberant. Yes, I know cattle don’t really jump out of the shoot all excited and exuberant unless you are giving them a peppy pill. Which I doubt.
For our scenario above and our business, job hunt or personal purpose let’s put this in perspective.
The assistants are the sites of Twitter, Facebook, Linked In or any other site that is a membership type site, article deposit site, forum or blog.
Traveling toward the shoot is actually your sales funnel. It starts huge at the top and becomes smaller at the shoot (your web site or store front), where each customer must enter one at a time.
The customer who has purchased your brand of medicine is excited to start the program, read the book, or get involved with the community they have just joined.
As you can see taking out the online piece, not being an active member of these social media sites is costing you previous cash flow for your business, costing you precious networking opportunities with those who might have the unadvertised job you would love to have, and/or costing you valuable connections.
Online marketing and specifically using social media sites are a smart choice to build your brand, connect with opportunities and build trust.
Something we can all do…….now go out there and join up!
Talk with you soon, Robin
Your work-life strategist
P.S. Follow me:http://twitter.com/robinharpe
Follow me: http://facebook.com (Robin Pennington Harpe)
Follow me: http://linkedin.com/robinharpe
P.P.S. Check out free article deposit area here:
http://www.examiner.com/x-36886-Gainesville-WorkLife-Balance-Examiner www.scribd.com/Coach%20Robin%20Harpe
Tags: Tweet Today
Many of us get caught up in the business of living. We spend the majority of our time working. The sad reality is that this leaves us very little time for the other areas of our lives. People are desperately seeking a balanced life. Reports of the good old days just seem impossible for our modern worker to achieve.
A short history of work
To understand how our lives have become so hectic let’s look at the history of work. Before the Information Age work was hard, degrading and back breaking. In antiquity hard work was regarded as slave work. The thinkers of the times, Aristotle, Plato, Socrates taught that a man’s purpose was to be enlightened. They believed that work was for the less fortunate not them. The prevailing thoughts of that period was that if you owed someone you were their slave. As a slave you would have performed the work and you would not be capable of thinking or being enlightened.
Fast forwarding into the 19th century work moved from the agricultural and home crafts into the factories. Machines were replacing home craft makers and the promise of abundance enticed the farmers to populate the cities where they found steady factory work. The Industrial Age was born and the immigration into cities changed our definition of the good life.
During the 20th to 21st centuries work has drastically changed. We are experiencing another drastic shift in our definition of work as we strive to have a strong work-life balance. In 1937 the all time classic book by Napoleon Hill, “Think and Grow Rich” was published. In this book Mr. Hill explains, “If you are one of those who believe that hard work and honesty, alone, will bring riches, perish the thought! It is not true! Riches, when they come in huge quantities, are never the results of hard work! Riches come, if they come at all, in response to definite demands, based upon the application of definite principles, and not by chance or luck.”
This book was written during the Great Depression being published as the country sprung out of this devastating time. Note that the mongers of the time knew of the great principles Mr. Hill describes. The mass population did not.
The Information Age brought along the innovation of today and the stresses from being available instantly. We no longer have privacy as our personal and work time have blended into a blur.
The 5 steps for creating a balanced life
With the appreciation that the good old days were really not so good here are five steps to design and balance your work life for today.
- Make a list of all the things you want. Many people will talk about things they want or would like to be or do and they rarely put these on paper. Putting them on paper gives you a 99% better chance of achievement.
- Review this list and sort them based on these three areas, relationships, self, and work. Life fulfillment occurs when this three legged stool is in balance.
- Note why you want these things. The why is the motivation for all accomplishments.
- Recognize that you must spend quality time in each of the important areas of your life. These areas include career or business, finances, accomplishments, recreation, family, friends, health, personal and spiritual development.
- Decide how you will or can divide your time among all of the important areas of your life. Work life balance does not mean you are spending equal time in each of these areas.
Tags: Life Balance, Work Life, Work Life Balance
All those personal development guru’s are always telling you to set goals.
How many people do you know who set goals but never achieve them?
They’re happy - right?
Here is what those annoying progressive goal achiever types do:
They set SMART goals. The goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant
and timely.
You don’t need to do that because you are happy with your life the way it is.
Those annoying progressive people put these goals, they just wrote, on their calendar
and make sure they work the most important things first before they do anything else on that day.
You don’t have to worry about any of that because you keep your list of things to do in your head, where they belong, and you can always do them tomorrow if you don’t get to them today.
Those goal achievers are always thinking, strategizing, re-calculating, reviewing and talking about their goals.
How boring! You’d rather talk about the game last night or the re-run you watched of Lost.
Another thing that is just too annoying from those goal achievers is that they are always volunteering, meeting new people and hanging out with like - minded people.
Well at least they stay to themselves so that you don’t have to be so bothered by them.
The biggest annoyance of all is that they are always trying to sway you to their way of thinking. They talk about their success and want you to join them. They want to know how they can help you succeed.
Don’t they realize you don’t need them to help you succeed. You are enjoying your current results just fine, thank you very much!
Seriously if you are beginning to think maybe, well just maybe those goal achievers have some idea of how to be successful that you don’t know - call me so I can explain what they do in more detail.
It really is fascinating how they run their lives.
There is still room in our 90 Days Goal Achieving class - going on right now! Sign up today here:
Talk With You Soon,
Your Coach - Robin
P.S. You can just set there, continue getting the same results you have always gotten or you can sign up for this unbelievably priced course to change your direction today.
P.P.S. You know you can always TVO those Lost reruns!
Tags: Goal Achievement
It really did seem like a good idea! You read about the beginning now for the rest of the story:
Once we did get out the following day for our first annual family holiday vacation, the seas were calm and we enjoyed our first night out on the seas. My parents were excited this was their first cruise.
The 2nd day at sea was formal night, meet the Captain and such. We all looked great dressed up. Earlier that day we were on deck, it was cold and gloomy all day. Not to worry we thought!
The third day we made our port in Cozmel. It was your typical cruising port town with all the trappings. We did manage to have a fabulous lunch downtown. One of our cabin stewards told us where they go and we took a cab down to the local hang out. In back was an open cafe and they even have turtles under foot. That was real Mexican food and such great memories. Our Waiter translated the name of the place to mean “The Grandfather”, and he was one of the descendants. What wonderful conversation.
On the way back to the boat…….this is when we should have started getting worried. A huge, and I mean huge black ugly cloud (ok, it took up the entire sky) came up quickly and by the time we reached half through the peer it came a down pour. My husband was pushing my Dad, who was in a wheelchair, like a crazy person — they made it without getting very wet. My Mom and me were not so fortunate. We knew we would get wet and well we just didn’t mind…..it was hot and the rain felt so good. What laughs we had.
On the way home, back out to sea — and the rocking started. Slowly at first; apparently we were heading into the storm that caused so much havoc on the East Coast. They got snow - we got wind (45 MPH) and waves of 12 feet. If you have ever been on a cruise ship; usually little winds and waves make it pleasant…..but not 12 foot seas. The winds hit us from one side and the waves had us rocking front to back; we were rocking and rolling all over the place.
Everybody — even the crew — was sick!! What a way to spend the last night.
As morning arrived, we were thrilled — then the announcement — we were delayed yet again. The storm had moved all the channel markers and we would have to wait until they were placed back in order.
Four hours past our docking time we finally docked and were allowed to get off! I was never so glad to see land again! It took the rest of the week to get over that feeling.
While at the civic center waiting to know if we would ever be able to leave that first day my brother said a old Muddholler (where we grew up) forecast, “Soggy bottom cornbread means Fog”; well if that is true then “Soggy soaked people means a huge storm is coming”!
We wanted to make memories — boy did we ever.
It also proves what I always teach — be very very specific about your goals — you see I just wanted memories but I forgot to say what kind. Next year you can bet I’m already writing down how I want that to turn out.
Oh, we’re staying on land for next years big outing!
Enjoy your Holidays.
Tags: Cruising Carnival
Yesterday we all got up 5:00 am, out the door by 8:30
We drove 3 1/2 hours to Mobile AL all excited for our first annual family vacation.
My parents have never been on a cruise, they still haven’t!
When we arrived we dropped off our luggage, so far normal operations.
Then we were told to drive over to the civic center, being escorted by police.
Hum? Something wasn’t right
We were given a paper explaining our ship had not came in! no pun intended here
The historic fog that covered the gulf coast had shut closed the port.
ok…..we will leave late we thought
At the civic center we were fed, we were entertained, we checked in.
Always on the job for you and always looking for opportunities I interviewed folks on how they were handling the situation. Fascinating!
The cruise line called one local restaurant McAllister’s and they were in charge of food. I spoke with the Catering Manager, she will be on my radio show in 2010, she said she said “Hallelujah” when the call came in. An order for 2200 sandwiches! WOW.
Another Cruise Ship employee stated they were only worried about people taking more than their share of meals. One of Security guards was more worried about people becoming angry.
What I observed as I watched over 6 hours of waiting in the civic center on word whether we would be allowed to board the ship, would the cruise be canceled, or any other sort of news. The human spirit is unbreakable. Some were playing cards, some were dancing to the entertainment the cruise ship was providing, some jumped in and helped organize things, others were just making new friends and creating a party atmosphere.
Others, however, were blaming the cruise line for the delay — for what Mother Nature — was doing To Them!
This is so indictive of human nature. Some people no matter what will just take things in stride, some will no matter what take things negatively.
Things just are, events are not negative or positive until we mix that with our emotions with our expectations and perceptions of what is or is not normal - to us.
Yesterday was an extreme example of what happens when people are put in a situation where their true nature will shine through. When we take life as positive, and events happen out of our control we can bounce through the event with ease, things become an adventure. On the other hand when we take life with a negative bent, everything will bother us.
It is a decision whether you will live life negatively or positively. Choose to be positive through this Holiday season. You will find that life becomes an adventure and you can find fun, meet exciting folks everywhere you go.
Stop back by our blog early next week — it looks like we will get to board afterall today! Yeah. My folks will finally get to go on a cruise and the first annual family vacation is off and running.
Has this ever happened to you, comment about your experience while on vacation that didn’t go as planned. I look forward to reading how you handled this.
Merry Christmas and look forward to updating you next week.
Your Coach, Robin
Tags: Family Vaction, Vacation Diaster
We lost an amazing mentor, teacher and philosopher over the weekend. This is the message I repeat from the Jim Rohn International newsletter received Saturday, December 5th.
“With great sadness we share that Jim Rohn, our mentor and friend, left us December 5, 2009 for a better place. Over the past 18 months, in his battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis, Jim assured us with a smile that all is good, that he would fight until the last breath, yet he had no fear as to what would be next. Jim’s faith was as much a part of his life as his desire to inspire and challenge us all to be the best we could be and to live our dreams.
Jim’s courage in his final months and days were a testament to his message that we should all fight the good fight. He never gave up and never gave in.
Jim Rohn touched millions of lives over the past 46 years through his seminars, books, articles and CDs. He always stayed long after an event t o shake hands, take pictures and sign autographs. He loved making a difference in people’s lives, that was his passion and inspiration. Yet he was also a private man who kept a small, loyal and caring inner circle. He was a tremendous friend to those who knew him. There will be a private funeral held in the coming days. Plans and details are also being arranged for a Public Memorial Service to be held in the Los Angeles area in the coming weeks. Details will be announced upon final confirmation at the Jim Rohn Tribute Site.
We know Mr. Rohn is looking down on us at this very moment with a smile saying I did it, I gave it my all, I went for it, now it’s your turn. Go for it. Make your life a life worth living well!
View a special tribute to Jim at the Jim Rohn Tribute Site produced earlier this year and debuted at the March 2009 SUCCESS Symposium. You are also encouraged to post your thoughts and remembrances of Jim on the Memorial Wall.
Here is one of my favorite quotes from Jim, which is listed on top of his website:
“I wish for you a life of wealth, health and happiness; a life in which you give to yourself the gift of patience, the virtue of reason, the value of knowledge, and the influence of faith in your own ability to dream about and achieve worthy rewards.”
Jim fondly closed his programs with the following sentiments: “I go with you in all the experience that we’ve had. But I promise you this as we leave here: I will not leave you behind. I’ll take you with me in my thoughts and in my heart.”
We will all miss him dearly. And, I am grateful for his presence and teachings. Today say a prayer for all of those who are no longer with us. Say a prayer for the families as they make it through another Holiday without their loved ones.
Remember the reason for the season and give the best gift - your time.
Your Coach, Robin
Tags: Give this gift, Jim Rohn, Jim Rohn passes
During the Holiday season we tend to reflect on past memories.
Do you smell the cookies, fresh baked breads and mulled cider?
Can you hear the carolers outside or the old time Holiday songs?
I grew up Presbyterian, then Baptist, then Catholic! Each of these churches had different songs they played during the Christmas season. I especially love the old time favorites.
I have them on tape, and listen to them often throughout the season.
Over the weekend I was listening, while I cleaned out my filing cabinet getting ready for 2010. I know my CPA will be asking for files soon!!
While I listened to the songs, doing my busy work a sense of calm rushed over me, a huge smile came upon me and I just felt so peaceful.
Then I thought of you.
Why?
Because when you are doing what you love, performing work that has meaning, and your passion shines through - it is just like that feeling I had over the weekend.
I want you to have this same feeling!
To foster your own song find something that lights you up. Here are some suggestions:
1. Prayer
2. Yoga, walking in nature, setting by a stream - get outside
3. Listen to birds singing - go bird watching
4. Keep a journal
5. Mediate and contemplate on your purpose
6. Go dancing
7. Watch a great movie, your favorite
8. Visit friends
9. Cook
10. Give your time to someone in need
The point is just do something, find something that really excites your soul. Something that you are not responsible to - that just is. Feel alive inside. Come alive inside.
Need help, give me a call, Your Coach, Robin
Tags: Holiday Song, Personal Song, Songs
I know many characters, and I’m sure you do as well.
You work with some, some are in your family, you might even
be married to one!!
This week was our monthly ACE group meeting.
We reviewed the book, “The Speed of Trust” by Stephen MR Covey
There are two kinds of people - those who trust automatically
upfront and those who do not.
The first group trusts unconditionally at first and if that
trust is violated will never trust you again.
The former wants you to prove and earn their trust.
Some of us, we discovered during the meeting do both.
Why is trust important?
Because quality and results will increase in direct proportion
to the increase in trust.
Think of it this way - trust equals confidence
Dis - trust equals bad relationships.
It comes down to what is your intent, what is your motive.
Intent is a character trait!
Listening this morning, as I do most mornings, to Joyce Meyer
she was speaking about this very same issue.
So many people you encounter are not speaking from their
heart — they are speaking from what they think they are supposed
to do or say.
They are not authentic!
In a book on Character from 1899, by Orison-Swett Marden,
he says, “If a youth were to start out in the world with the fixed
determination that he will make no statement but the exact
truth; that every promise shall be redeemed to the letter; that
every appointment shall be kept with the strictest faithfulness,
and with sacred regard for other men’s time; if he should hold his
reputation as a priceless treasure, and feel that the eyes of the
world are upon him, that he must not deviate a hair’s breadth
from the truth and right, if he should take such a stand at the
outset, he would come to have the almost unlimited confidence
of mankind.”
Are you living your life as he describes above? Is this your
character? How would you describe your trust level or that
of your organization?
What do you stand for?
To Your Success,
Your Coach Robin
Comment here about how you can use this information to build better relationships.
Tags: Character, Coach Robin Harpe, Confidence, Trust
More accurately I should say I had a mental block.
It occurred to me over the weekend when I visited our local Fall Arts and Crafts Fair in Gainesville, FL.
There were so many wonderful Artist’s there and a couple really caught my eye.
Especially one of them.
Let me describe what I saw, think of a child’s block, put it on a shelf and name it “mental”.
There you have the “mental block”. Ok, you see why I thought that was clever.
I began thinking about the larger thoughts behind this phrase.
It hits me like a “ton of bricks”; I had a mental block.
When I began wishing for my life to be different, craving new surroundings, and created a white hot desire to have this new life I ran into several mental blocks.
So, exactly what is a mental block. It is simply a term we use to describe our inability to think. This can be our coping mechanism to repress painful thoughts, an inability to focus, or calm down.
This can lead to a lack of creativity and many people believe they are not creative because of these normal thoughts. In reality we are all creative, all the time.
We have placed ourselves in boxes. These boxes were created when we were growing up and reinforced through conditioning and programming throughout our lives. We feel very comfortable with our mental blocks. These are the toys we most like to keep near us at all times.
How do we stop these mental blocks - how do we change them.
We first have to realize we are an incredible spiritual thinking being that is very unique. We are extremely creative. And, we have boxed ourselves into the life we now live.
To break free - we have to dream again as we did when we were a kid. We have to ignore becoming to involved with comforming - to appear normal. We need to play more and dream about what we really want.
Mental blocks is our belief system. The only way to change a belief is to challenge it’s existence. It was put there to protect us from harm. Perhaps the threat no longer exists and the belief has morphed into a habit that is really killing our creativity and our potential.
This week take a few minutes each day and play!
Go out on the swing set and just swing - without a care in the world.
Go pick up some child blocks and build something.
Go and do something out of the ordinary. Drive a different way to work, smile at everyone you meet, make them think you are up to something.
Because you are!
You are up to raising your level of awareness, raising your level of creativity and raising the bar on your own results.
Comment on what you are going to do this week to get the thinking juices flowing again. Blog about that here. I really want to hear from you.
What am I going to do — I’m going to get my blocks out and build something. Just for the fun of it!
Tags: Mental Blocks
On my radio show (www.blogtalkradio.com/coachrobinharpe) I ask all of my
guests this one question, “How Do You Define Success”.
With that question looming on my mind all the time when I had the opportunity
of interviewing Lisa Nichols in person at an event last summer I asked this
same question.
Here is her response transcribed for you:
“First of all, success has to be holistic. Success has to be in your spiritual life, your relationships, your finances, and in your health. So it is holistic success. Success is going to bed at night with 0 regrets to knowing that today I played full out for my body, my family, my finances, my spirituality, I played full out - Success is when your name lives beyond your body when your story lives beyond your body - That is success When you are immortalized by the lessons you’ve taught Your legacy You leave a legacy not a liability!” Lisa NicholsWOW! In As A Man Thinketh, James Allen states
“A person cannot directly choose his circumstances, but he can
choose his thoughts, and so indirectly, yet surely, shape his
circumstances.”
What type of legacy are you creating with your thoughts?
You say, Robin, very good question!
Comments welcome below.
Tags: Lisa Nichols, Robin Harpe, Success
Recent Comments