Ignite Your Life

Thought for the Day: Are You Giving Life All You’ve Got?

Andrea Woolf — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 08:52:22 +0000

Thought for the Day: Are You Giving Life All You’ve Got?

“Act as if what you do makes a difference.
It does.”
-William James

Does life feel like a playground of Ease and Joy? Do you see endless opportunities to create a life where Have It ALL? Or do you bump up against your glass ceiling and stop yourself over and over again?

If you’re feeling stuck, there are a few simple things you can do to free yourself up and start creating the life you’re yearning for.

Everything you think and everything you do ripples out into the world and makes an impact, positive or negative. So, the first thing to do is shift your mindset from “I don’t matter,” to “I make a difference.” Then you will quickly see that everything you do actually does makes a difference.

Once you get this in your bones, you’ll start to get excited and inspired to get moving. Then the next step is to take focused action to get you moving in a positive direction!

Thought for the Day: Are You Giving Life All You’ve Got?

Here are some simple steps to get yourself into focused action:
•   Clarify what it is that you want to change.
•   Get clear on what it will take to actually change it.
•   Take action on it, either alone or with whomever it is that you need to take action.

Now, would you like to hear more about how to create a truly juicy life?

Tune in this Sunday, April 21st ,on FOX Baltimore to see my interview on “The Ripple Effect” TV Show with Kristen White. I’ll talk about how you can begin to create a life where you truly feel like you Have it ALL.

Not in Baltimore? Catch a sneak peek HERE.

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

‘The Queen of Having It All‘
Author of Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be
Founder of IgniteYourLifeBOOK.com
Co-founder of WakeUpAbundant.com
Ambassador of Manifest Money, HowtoLiveonPurpose.com

Can The Power of Positive Thinking Really Help?

Andrea Woolf — Tue, 15 May 2012 22:42:08 +0000

Can The Power of Positive Thinking Really Help?

What a really juicy question this is!

Do you need to ‘see it to believe it‘, or do you ‘believe it then see it’? Whatever your answer is, you’ve got absolutely nothing to lose by trying the power of positive thinking!

“What we can or cannot do, what we consider possible or impossible, is rarely a function of our true capability. It is more likely a function of our beliefs about who we are.” Anthony Robbins

In the article below, Sherril Lowe grapples with the question, has it been proven that positive thinking really helps?

Scientific Studies on Positive Thinking

I was just reading an article in Scientific American entitled Can Positive Thinking Be Negative? I have to admit, when I read the title I shook my head in disbelief! How could positive thinking be negative? That just does not make sense? Deep in our souls I believe that we all know positive thinking allows us to have a more confident approach to every day which leads to a more fulfilling life. Sure, we all have bad days when the struggles make it difficult to smile and look at the bright side. Things happen, like the death of a family member, which can totally take the entire positive out of your step for a while. However, my belief is that by training our minds and developing the ability to refocus our thoughts allows us to have less stress, better relationships, and more successful careers. Overall, positive thinking people appear to be healthier and happier.

Since that last statement is my opinion and not a fact that I could prove, I decided to do my research and see if there has been any scientific research on the power of positive thinking. I found many articles that claimed to have proven the power of positive thinking but I felt these experiments either did not show strong correlations or proper research methods were not being used. For example, Dr. Emoto’s research on water crystals probably is the most famous positive thinking experiment thanks to the movie “What the Bleep Do We Know?” However, all my research finds that Dr. Emoto did not utilize proper research techniques. (wonderful and informative article here)

So does this mean that I am wrong? I do not believe so. I am sure you have heard of the placebo effect. This is when people start to feel better after taking a sugar pill or two. The same magazine, Scientific American, has an interesting article here that talks about the proven fact that our minds can heal our bodies. It has been discovered that when a person receives a placebo, the body actually produces chemicals that simulate the same healing as medicine would have. It encourages the immune system and releases hormones that are beneficial.

There is even more good news for positive thinkers and optimists. Scientist have ascertained that optimists have a fifty-five percent lower risk of death for all causes and a twenty-three percent lower risk of death from heart failure. Again, from Scientific American, there is an article discussing the research here.

While I truly do not believe that there has been any totally accurate research completed that proves my initial statement, I still believe that positive people are happier, more successful, healthier and live fuller lives. Can I prove it? No.

Can you prove me wrong?

Article source: http://voices.yahoo.com/scienticfic-studies-positive-thinking-11235782.html?cat=5

Can The Power of Positive Thinking Really Help?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s a fundamental key to creating and maintaining a healthy, happy and expansive life!

Here’s what Michelle says about the power of positive thinking:
“I now know that when I start my day thinking positive thoughts, my day goes FAR better than when I’m grumpy and focusing on what’s ‘wrong’ in the world and in my life. It’s amazing how much easier things seem to go, and how much healthier and more peaceful I feel. Then there’s the effect it has on other people. When I’m positive, just about everyone else around me becomes positive too! It creates this giant ripple…how great is that?!”

There are continuing studies done and much written about how learning new things, and thinking new thoughts create new neural pathways in the brain. At the beginning, these new connections are weak, then with repetition, the pathways become stronger. Some people call this ‘brain training‘. Just like strengthening a muscle, as a neural pathway gets stronger, it becomes easier.

It goes to follow then that if you think positive thoughts, those thoughts will create all kinds of marvelous neural pathways, which in turn makes it easier and easier to do what you want!

Make it a daily routine to monitor your thoughts. If you notice yourself thinking the worst, expecting to be disappointed, or seeing the negative in the world and in the people around you, do something to break the cycle. Redirect your attention to:

Think empowering and generous thoughts
Focus on positive thinking
Look for what’s good and even great in the world and the people around you
Believe that it is possible to achieve what you’re most passionate about
Know that you have the resources to get yourself there!

Do this and you’ll prove for yourself the immense power of positive thinking!

Regularly thinking positive thoughts is something you can develop on your own with practice. Working with others who are also focusing on the power of positive thinking will help to get you there more quickly, and at times even miraculously! Are you ready to take control of your life and learn HOW your thoughts create your experience? Are you willing to dedicate just one month to see AMAZING results? Click HERE or go to http://IgniteYourLifeBOOK.com/miraclemindshift to sign up for the Miracle Mindshift 31-day program, and start creating MIRACLES in your life TODAY!

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

How Well Do Words of Appreciation Work in Sales?

Andrea Woolf — Thu, 03 May 2012 12:00:06 +0000

How Well Do Words of Appreciation Work in Sales?

The short answer to this question is phenomenally well!

You might be surprised how truly powerful words of appreciation can be when it comes to sales.

Think about it. How often are you WOWED by someone who’s selling you something? If you can remember that rare experience, what did they do differently or beyond the norm?

Did they care about you? Were they enthusiastic about what they were selling? Were they attentive? Or, were they pushy, indifferent, or only seemed concerned with closing the sale?

Elinor Stutz‘s article below offers other great tips on how to build strong sales relationships.

The Truth About Sales

The idea of selling unfortunately scares many due to the adjectives of unethical, manipulative and aggressive being associated with salespeople. In reality, a sale is nothing more than an agreement between two people regarding expectations of the product or service in question. Therefore a number of steps are required in order to successfully advance to the sale itself. But the overall theme of any sale is to develop trust by moving forward with integrity.

Develop Your Brand

All endeavors begin with you. Who are you, what do you enjoy and what makes you unique? How do you apply your unique talents to the service you provide? Once you have the answers clearly defined, craft a short message speaking to why potential clients should care. How will they benefit from working with you versus someone else in your field? Prospects wish to know this prior to purchasing from you.

Go The Extra Mile

Get to know your prospects and clients well. Like you, they are each unique therefore scripts do not work especially well. Before you speak or meet, research the company, their competitors and the industry. Just as you communicate your unique capabilities, how does your intended differ from their competitors?When you are able to speak to the research you completed during your conversation, the trust meter rises rapidly.

Q&A Works Best

The best technique you can use is to not make assumptions. Sometimes what seems so obvious will turn out to be false. By avoiding this pitfall you will adeptly continue to build trust.

Additionally, your prospect will appreciate the questions sensing you are truly interested in what they have to say. Most in the business of selling make the mistake of “telling selling”. They believe by talking at length showing their in-depth knowledge about the product, they will be highly admired. The opposite is true. The other party becomes quite bored and annoyed that you do not hold them in equal esteem to yourself. The sale is a 50-50 process and so the conversation must also be equal in nature.

Apply these concepts to social media

Be there for your following in terms of support, answering questions and referring to others. Build a community around your page by encouraging others to post there too. Freely share your expertise in your updates and tweets. Make it a resource area for others to grow too.
Just as others promote your programs, offer to promote theirs too. Move in reciprocity and others will find you and promote you, too. Your branding effort will enjoy a much wider reach. In this regard, more people will find you to offer opportunities as well as to work with you.

Show Appreciation

The easiest and sincerest method for building relationships is to simply say “Thank You” every time someone helps you. In your words of appreciation, ask if there is anything you might do to return the help. This encourages further help and support.

On another level, instead of asking for appointments indicating I wish to sell to the other party, I always ask, “Would you like to talk to find ways in which we may help one another?” No one has ever said “No”!

Dale Carnegie said it best, “A sale is the natural conclusion of a conversation.” When you enjoy the conversation recognizing a good fit between the two of you, all that is required is to ask at the end, “When would you like to start?” It’s simple, to the point and without manipulation. The other party will recognize you do move with sincerity and will be far more inclined to move forward as your client.

Just like the concept of truth in advertising, move forward with paying respect and delivering truth in sales. When you do, you will find it a Smooth Sale!

Article source: http://www.business2community.com/sales-management/the-truth-about-sales-0160266

How Well Do Words of Appreciation Work in Sales?

No matter what line of business you’re in, to stand out in today’s competitive marketplace look for ways to set yourself apart. Commit yourself to a level of excellence that will *dazzle* your customers and clients – the kind of customer service that will leave them wondering how they ever lived without you, your service, or your products.

Consciously create your customer service experience so that your customers or clients know without question that:

you care about them
you’re passionate about what you do
you appreciate their business
you’re committed to excellence, quality, and integrity
you go above and beyond what’s expected to serve their needs, and
you absolutely love doing business with them!

Then deliver on it consistently!

In this way you will lay a wonderful foundation for a long and mutually beneficial relationship!

These simple practices and your words of appreciation will develop trust and create an alliance, both of which are crucial relationship building blocks. Especially in sales!

Increasing the level of service you provide involves being passionate about what you do and why you’re doing it. If you’re ready to connect with your passion and purpose so your business and your life can soar, click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifeBOOK.com/products-programs/products/get-a-free-chapter/ to get your FREE chapter of my book Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be. TODAY!

Ignite Your Life! is a simple step-by-step system that will create a profound shift in your life and will bring about the success, abundance and joy that you’ve always dreamed of! When you apply this system to each area of your life, you’ll create the Juicy Life and Business of Your Dreams!

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

Are You Finding it Difficult to Manifest Money?

Andrea Woolf — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:48:46 +0000

Are You Finding it Difficult to Manifest Money?

Are you finding it tough to make ends meet? Do you wish you knew the ‘magic formula’ to manifest money?

If so, you’re not alone.

Or are you treading water, managing to maintain status quo around money, but not growing?

In both cases, the common denominator is…yes, you guessed it: YOU!

And the first place to look to transform your relationship with money and the results that are showing up in your world is that wonderful mind of yours.

Take a moment and choose the statement that best describes your thoughts about money:
   a.   ”It’s consistently easy and effortless for me to manifest money.”
   b.   ”Sometimes manifesting money is easy, sometimes it’s hard to do.”
   c.   ”Generating money seems to be easy for others, but it’s just not for me.”
   d.   ”I know I could create money if I just had the right tools!”

Did you answer b, c, or d?

So, what is keeping you from generating money?

Quite simply, you’re not regularly practicing the simple steps to do so!

Below you’ll find some great tips from Karen Marrow, founder of Combining the Power of the Mind with Internet Marketing.

How to Manifest Money: Five Tips for Creating Wealth

Learning how to manifest money is easy. The hard part is up to you and you only. No one outside of yourself can make you believe in the possibilities. It’s the believing that most people struggle with so start small and grow big.

How to Manifest Money: Tip #1 – Be Willing to Believe

Be willing to believe that all things are possible. If you’re willing to believe you can manifest money then you will. Choose to have a more positive view of money while avoiding the fear of not having enough.

Be willing to believe in yourself. This is vital to learning how to become wealthy. If you don’t like yourself you will always struggle. Like or even love yourself as you would love someone dear to your heart.

Be willing to believe you can change. Trees don’t fight the changing seasons and neither should you. Change is the only thing that’s constant in this world. Be willing to believe you have a choice. You can choose to learn how to manifest money or you can choose to think money is hard to get.

How to Manifest Money: Tip #2 – Know What Money Represents

To understand how to manifest money, you should know what money represents. Money isn’t the paper and ink it’s printed on. Money is a representation of value and we trade money for value.

When you purchase a new TV, you’re really paying for the value of a clearer picture and for the value of entertainment. You tip a great waitress better than a bad waitress…why? The great waitress provided better value and you enjoyed your dining experience more because of her.

To the vast majority of people, money represents freedom and choice. I’m offering for you to think differently. Make the choice to practice how to become wealthy and the freedom will follow.

How to Manifest Money: Tip #3 – Provide Value and Be Proud

Regardless of what you do to earn money, always provide value. In providing value, you know you’ve done the best you could and that makes you feel proud of yourself.

Consciously and with intent, do a great job with everything even making the bed. If you don’t want to make the bed neatly then make it even messier! (That’s a fun thought.)

How to Manifest Money: Tip #4 – Use Money Affirmations Daily

Use affirmations. You can write them, say them out loud or in your head as well as leave yourself sticky notes as reminders. Here are a few affirmations to get you started.

I love money and money loves me.

Life supports me and all my needs are met.

My income is increasing everyday.

Don’t worry about how all of this will happen. Just keep at it and be ready to receive and take action when you can!

How to Manifest Money: Tip #5 – Attitude of Gratitude

You’re reading these words on a computer or a phone. Be grateful for the money you used to pay for those items. You have a vehicle? Even if you hate it, be grateful for it.

Having an attitude of gratitude is a great tool for increasing your income.

Learning how to manifest money will change your life. Be grateful for the ability to learn. Be grateful for everything, small and large.

Original source: http://karenmarrow.com/personal-development/how-to-manifest-money

Are You Finding it Difficult to Manifest Money?

Here are a couple of articles to help you accelerate your results:

What is the Magic Formula to Manifest Money? http://igniteyourlifebook.com/abundance-and-prosperity/what-is-the-magic-formula-to-manifest-money/
How Does Being Specific Help You Manifest Money? http://igniteyourlifebook.com/abundance-and-prosperity/how-does-being-specific-help-you-manifest-money/

In addition, here are three important practices to help you generate the money you want:

1. Do something different than what you’re doing right now!

One definition of insanity is to keep doing the same thing and expect a different result! So, do something different!

2. Take consistent action!

Use your practices and tools regularly and consistently to get consistent results!

3. Don’t give up!

Most people give up just before reaching success. Keep going!

These are what separate the women from the girls, the men from the boys, and the successful from the struggling!

When you combine these practices with your tools, you’ll be unstoppable in creating the life of your dreams!

And to help you create the vision of your ideal dream life and then actually bring it to fruition, click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifeBOOK.com/products-programs/products/get-a-free-chapter/ to get your FREE chapter of my book, Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be TODAY!

Ignite Your Life! is a simple step-by-step system that will create a profound shift in your life and will bring about the success, abundance and joy that you’ve always dreamed of! When you apply this system to each area of your life, you’ll create the Juicy Life and Business of Your Dreams!

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

Lost Your Verve for Your Business? Rediscover Your Passion for Working With Purpose

Andrea Woolf — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 22:40:46 +0000

Lost Your Verve for Your Business? Rediscover your passion for Working With Purpose.

Is your business leaving you depressed and deflated?

Does it take everything you have just to ‘make it through the day’ at work?

Do you find yourself hating many of the things you ‘have’ to do for your business?

If you answered yes to any of the above, then you’re probably suffering from a strong case of working without purpose!

That’s right! If you’ve forgotten what inspired you to start your business in the first place, it’s inevitable that at some point you’ll stop working with purpose, and your work will begin to feel like drudgery. Your day-to-day work activities will no longer excite you. And you’ll have lost any sense of fulfillment.

It’s no wonder that you feel like you’ve lost your verve!

So, what do you do when this happens?

The first major step to take is to look the situation square in the proverbial face and come to terms with yourself about it.

Sounds simple right? Yet you’d be surprised just how difficult this can be when your business is ‘at stake‘.

But here’s the truth: nothing will change for the positive until you acknowledge what isn’t working!

As challenging as this may be to do, the upside is that once you do, you’ll be poised to re-align yourself with your purpose. And when you re-align with your purpose, you will be ready to transform your business and create a different future!

The story below from Michelle Mains is a fabulous example of this.

I Have a Passion

I have a friend who used to run a flower shop. “Anna” is a doll – fun, warm and thoughtful. As I was getting to know her, she admitted that she was glad she didn’t have the business anymore. It turns out the shop had been nothing like she had expected.

Anna and her husband refinanced their home multiple times. Repeatedly they found themselves pumping cash into their business, but that was only until the next crisis arose.

Anna often worked extra hours for months at a time when she had employee problems or staffing gaps. It wasn’t what she had in mind when they bought the business, especially as she tried to juggle time with her children and large, extended family.

She was complaining to a friend of ours for the umpteenth time when he suddenly said to her, “Hey – why don’t you just sell that business?”

“SELL IT?! Are you kidding me? After all the time, energy, and money we’ve put into it? I couldn’t do that. No – I wouldn’t do that. But, but, but…maybe I just need to sell that business.”

Anna was so surprised when the words came out of her mouth. A goal she had worked so hard to achieve – owning her own company, might be coming to an end. But as she went home that night and thought it through, she realized he may be right. She said to me, “I realized I only liked a small part of it. I didn’t like working with the City to obtain permits. I didn’t like arguing with farmers or wholesalers about prices. I didn’t like going to the accountant every quarter to work on my taxes. And I CERTAINLY didn’t like firing people!”

As you can imagine, they did sell the shop. And Anna, as well as her whole family, was much, much happier. It turns out that she got a job at a church, and part of her duties include helping brides who want to rent the church with their floral arrangements. She gets to do all the things she liked to do, and skip the ones she didn’t.

I admire Anna. She made a brave decision, admitted what wasn’t working, and moved on with her life before things got worse. I’ve had a lot of goals in my life, and I’ve achieved a lot. But I can tell you that it’s also all right to let go of a dream, or let it morph into something else, however bittersweet that may be. Let your natural gift call to you, and try to leave everything else behind, even if it’s only for the rest of this week. In the words of novelist George Sand, “I know that I have found fulfillment. I have an object in life, a task…a passion.”

Original source: http://michellemains.com/2012/04/17/i-have-a-passion/

Lost Your Verve for Your Business? Rediscover Your Passion for Working With Purpose.

It’s amazing how dealing with what’s not working and putting your focus on what you love will change everything.

Here are some simple steps to get you back on track so that you’re working with purpose, and experiencing joy in your work:

Establish, or re-connect with the purpose of your business. What are you doing it for? What inspires you about it? How does your business make a difference in the world?
Tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth about what’s not working.
Create a plan. Have the end in mind, and clarify your ideal outcome. Then map out what actions you’ll take to correct what isn’t working.
Begin working with purpose in all areas of your business.

Follow these steps and watch how quickly everything turns around! You’ll be amazed how your newfound commitment to your purpose and your passion makes it all worth while.

You’ll see what it truly means to get your verve on!

You deserve to ‘have it all’…including a GREAT business that you LOVE! To help you connect
with your purpose and passion, and reignite your energy, click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifeBOOK.com/products-programs/products/buy-the-book/ to get your PDF of
Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be TODAY!

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

Are You in Alignment With Your Mission and Vision Statements?

Andrea Woolf — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 12:00:49 +0000

Are You in Alignment With Your Mission and Vision Statements?

What’s more important, having great mission and vision statements for your business, or living a life that’s deep and fulfilling?

The answer of course is both.

In your business, when you and your team are in alignment with your mission and vision statements, you’re inspired and creating success while maintaining clarity of your vision. When you’re living your personal life in alignment with your ideal vision and you core beliefs, you’re fulfilled. And this fulfillment gives you the fuel you need to bring those values back into to your business.

It’s a lovely circular flow that keeps feeding itself.

The article below offers some great thoughts on bringing your personal life into your business practices from Elizabeth Kraus, author of Little White Marketing Lies and 365 Days of Marketing.

4 Divine Secrets for Happier Customers and Employees

Driving my girls to school this morning I heard a snippet on the news about a Gallup-Healthways survey of more than 300,000 people which revealed that regular church goers are happier each and every day compared to irregular church attendees or non-church goers. As if that weren’t interesting enough, the report also said that for regular church goers, this “high point” of happiness occurs on Sundays (while those who only occasionally or never attend religious services peak on Saturdays).

Absent an analysis of survey details, as someone who has been a regular attendee of churches for the better part of the last 33 years, I thought that I’d offer up a few reasons why people who regularly attend a church, mosque or synagogue might be happier than those who don’t. To that end, here are four divine secrets for businesses who want their own ‘congregations’ filled with happy customers and employees.

Divine Secret of Happier Customers and Employees #1:

A belief that they are part of something bigger than themselves.

Churches, mosques and synagogues from fundamental to new age, traditional to modern, and all stages in between still provide this one commonality for their members: The opportunity to be part of something bigger than themselves as individuals. Their members are fully “bought in” to the vision (what can be accomplished) and so are willing to do what is needed to help fulfill the mission (the means by which they will bring the vision to pass).

Most churches have the ability to carry out their mission and vision not due to paid clergy but in large part due to volunteer efforts. Contrast that with the dilemma some business owners have getting even their paid employees to show up and do a full day’s work, or give 100%. Why? Church members believe in the mission of the organization.

If you want your employees and customers to be happier, you need them to buy in to a vision of what can be that is meaningful to them, that is worthwhile (beyond monetary compensation), that provides emotional and intellectual payoffs and one in which they see themselves as valued contributors. To do that, you must first actually have a clear vision statement (the good that your business can ultimately provide to the world) and a clear mission statement (the means by which you will achieve your vision).

Secondly, you have to ensure that your mission and vision statements are more than just inspiring words. If no one buys in to your mission and vision statement, they are unlikely to come to pass. And if the only time that your employees hear your mission and vision statements is the day they’re hired or at annual meetings, they are not likely to be part of your employee culture; they aren’t likely to influence your operations, day in and day out. And if your mission and vision aren’t central to your day-to-day operations, you’ll never achieve them!

Divine Secret of Happier Customers and Employees #2:

A belief that other members truly care about them and act on their behalf.

Man oh man, if you want to hear some great gossip, attend a church prayer meeting. You’ll find out who is sick and what they have, who is struggling financially and who is living in sin. Why? Because of the trust that members have in one another. They trust one another with incredibly personal information because they believe that other members have their best interests at heart, that they would not act on the information inappropriately or share it indiscriminately and that they will pray on their behalf and do whatever they can to meet the needs of one another.

That’s not usually what happens at the office, though, is it?

When we hear tidbits of gossip at work, we are more likely to share it with people whose business it isn’t and either to be happy that it isn’t us or even gleeful that someone is getting “what’s coming to them” karma wise.

But when it comes to your employees and customers, your business should be as safe as a church. Not only should your customers have absolute faith that any information you have about them remains confidential (and that goes for contact information, email addresses and financial information as well as any information actually obtained as a result of providing services for customers), but your employees should, too.

Gossip should be called out and eliminated, whether the secrets being told are those of customers or employees. And your employees should view your business as a safe place to share their problems and troubles – the employee culture should be one of mutual encouragement and be characterized by people who are willing to help one another out, whether on the job, or off.

Divine Secret of Happier Customers and Employees #3:

A belief that they should focus less on their own problems and well-being and more on that of their fellow man.

It’s easy to focus on ourselves, it’s human nature. And the more we focus on ourselves, the more we tend to worry about our own problems, indulge in self-pity or experience jealousy at the success of others. It’s more difficult to put the well-being and happiness of others ahead of our own, but that is one of the guiding principles of conduct in churches, synagogues and mosques, where members not only preach but regularly practice putting the needs of their fellow man in the forefront.

If you want happier customers and employees, this must be central to the culture of your business, too.

When was the last time you caught an employee doing something that was someone else’s job, just because it needed doing?
When was the last time you had managers who worked to forward the initiatives of other departments, rather than fight for their own initiatives or “turf?”
When was the last time you caught an employee going out of their own way for a customer?
When was the last time that you did it, yourself?

Divine Secret of Happier Customers and Employees #4:

A belief that they have an oasis for encouragement, learning, personal growth and self-renewal.

When church goers walk through the doors of worship, they not only find a community of people they believe truly care about them and who would go out of their way to help them, but when they walk through those doors, they are entering a place where they can leave the cares of the world behind and find sanctuary; an oasis where they can renew their inner spirit and mind and prepare to face the week ahead. They expect to be uplifted. They expect to learn and grow. They expect to leave feeling filled up, rather than drained out.

What happens when your employees or customers walk through your doors? Is anything about your customer experience meant to renew or refresh their spirit in some way – by showing that you truly value them, by demonstrating that you view them as people (rather than tools or wallets), by stimulating their senses or providing them with information and education to engage, enlighten and intrigue them? When was the last time that you put any effort into ensuring that employees break and lunch rooms were hospitable for rest and refreshment? Would your employees or your customers say that their renewal, refreshment and interest was important to you or your business?

And that brings me to one final observation. Regular church goers aren’t just happier in general than non church going counterparts; they’re happier every day of the week, and especially on Sundays. Are your customers and employees happier on the days when they interact with your business than on any other days? If you take inspiration from the divine secrets of customer and employee happiness, they could be!

Article source: http://www.business2community.com/strategy/4-divine-secrets-for-happier-customers-and-employees-0153435

Are You in Alignment With Your Mission and Vision Statements?

If you’re not sure, or if you feel inconsistencies between your personal and business lives, you’re likely not feeling energized or an overall sense of happiness in your life.

Here are a few simple questions you can ask yourself to begin this inquiry:

Am I living the life I truly want to be living?
Can you honestly shout out to the world, “I love my life!”?
Does my business truly reflect my values?
Am I equally fulfilled by my personal life and my business?

If you answer “no” these questions, then it’s time to evaluate what’s missing, and take committed steps to bringing your business and personal lives into alignment.

To get your personal and business lives working in harmony with each other, start with these powerful steps:

Reacquaint yourself with your business’ mission and vision statements.

Make whatever adjustments you need so that your business practices are in alignment with them.
Have conversations with your team and your customers to see what’s working and what isn’t – and then make adjustments.

Create mission and vision statements for your ideal personal life if you don’t already have them.

Here is a helpful article on this subject, Do You Have Family Mission and Vision Statements?
If you notice things in your personal life aren’t in congruent with your statements, take focused action to realign everything.
Share your statements with those who matter most to you. Invite them to support you and participate in your mission to create a truly juicy life.

Continue to nurture your vision for your ideal business and personal lives. The stronger your commitment to these, the more powerful the results.

When you’re in alignment with your mission and vision statements, you’ll notice that nothing feels impossible. It will be a joy to leap out of bed every morning, energized and ready to greet the day. Every day will feel easy and exciting. Everything will feel like it’s working in your favor. And you’ll feel more fulfillment than you thought was possible!

You deserve to ‘have it all’ in your life. Often times, all it takes are some very simple and practical steps to follow. To create an amazing, fulfilled life – one that is completely clear and powerful in every area – click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifebook.com/products-programs/products/buy-the-book/ to get your PDF of Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be TODAY!

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

Juggling Motherhood and a Business? Try These Time Management Tips

Andrea Woolf — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:42 +0000

Juggling Motherhood and a Business? Try These Time Management Tips

Managing a business is a huge job in and of itself. Managing a family with children, AND a business, is a monumental undertaking!

If you’re one of those amazing mothers, I bow to you! You are poised to change the world, with your grace, courage and commitment to excellence in your personal and professional lives. You truly exemplify Ernest Hemingway’s quote, “Courage is grace under fire.”

On the good days, you can feel the flow of possibility and happiness coursing through your veins.

But on the not so good days:

every chore can feel like a boulder to lift
you’re overwhelmed and exhausted
you feel like your feet are in mud, and
your to-do lists, if you even have them, are completely overloaded

When you find yourself in this dilemma, it’s time to adopt some helpful Time Management Tips!

Here is a great article for moms by Aby Garvey, Organizing and Productivity Expert at Simplify 101.

Time Management Tips for Mom: How to feel better about a day full of thankless tasks

I’ve been meaning to blog about this topic for quite a while now. It’s something I think many moms can relate to: how do you make yourself feel good about a day full of thankless tasks? Have you been there, too? This is how a participant in last summer’s It’s About Time online workshop described it.

Other than tranquility because the house is picked up, I have no reward for completing tasks. I don’t get thank yous, I don’t get praise. How in the world do I make myself feel good about a day full of thankless tasks?

…I go go go until I drop and then I resent everyone and everything around me. I feel like I am doing all the support work (house cleaning/errands/school support/etc) and everyone else is enjoying the fruits of my labors. It is almost as if I want to stop so someone will notice the nice things they are missing.

Of course when I stop, laundry piles up, dishes are everywhere, the visual clutter drives me nuts and I feel depressed. Eventually I pull myself up by the bootstraps, get everything back in order and the cycle starts again.

I would bet most of us moms have felt this way at one point or another—feeling as if we’re doing so much for our family without thanks or recognition. Plus, so much of what moms do in a day gets undone almost before our eyes. The kitchen stays clean only until the next meal. At best, laundry stays caught up for a few hours— as soon as someone goes to bed and changes into their pj’s, the hamper is back on its way to full! It can be so frustrating.

So what’s a mom to do? Here are some ideas:

Ask for help. If you find yourself taking on most of the household responsibilities yourself, ask for help. Even young kids can help with simple tasks, and little kids get great pleasure out of being a helper. Tap into your child’s interests and natural desire to help. For example, when my son was little he loved garbage trucks. So getting him to empty the trashcans was a piece of cake! Make helping out part of the family culture and everyone wins. Your kids will learn basic home keeping skills which will serve them in adulthood, and you’ll get some much needed assistance. Your family members may even begin to appreciate everything you do for them.

Remind them. From time to time, I will remind my kids about what I (and my husband) do for them. For example, if my kids complain about having to put away their clean clothes, I ask them if they would also like to sort, pre-treat, wash, dry, fold AND put away the laundry, or simply put away their clothes like they have to do now. After having this short conversation, their reluctance to put away their clothes passes quickly, and their complaints turn to thanks each time I drop off a batch of freshly folded laundry.

Remember the big picture. When I start to get frustrated by what feels like a never ending household to-do list, I remind myself that I chose this. I chose to be a mom, and honestly, I wouldn’t want it any other way. When the laundry starts to pile up I remember that I won’t always have to do laundry for four people. In the blink of an eye, I’ll be doing laundry for three and then it will be for just two of us. Keeping the perspective that this is a choice (and one I would make again in heartbeat) really helps, as does the recognition that my current to do list is temporary. My to-do list will continue to shrink as my kids get older and take on even more responsibilities, until ultimately they (gasp) move away.

Carve out time for you. Take intentional, rejuvenating breaks from your to do list. What activities relax you or make you feel like your needs are being met? When you start to feel resentful of your to-do list, make it a point to take some time for yourself. Think back to a time when you felt better about your to-do list… what things did you do for yourself then? For me, exercising is huge rejuvenator, whether it’s yoga, running or boot camp. Exercise is good for the body and it’s great for the mind—it’s a little slice of quiet time where I can even complete a full thought. What activities rejuvenate you?

Give yourself permission to have fun, even when there’s work to be done. Here’s the thing: there will always be work to be done! So waiting until ALL the work is done to give yourself a break simply won’t work. Stake a claim to some fun time just for you. Decide how much time feels right and will fit into your schedule, and then figure out when it will happen. Could you get up earlier on weekdays to do something fun before the kids get up? Could you go to a dance or exercise class on the weekends? When you do take time out for fun, it’s a win-win. You’ll resent your to-do list less, and you’ll be more energized to get things done.

Article source: http://creativeorganizing.typepad.com/creative_organizing/2012/04/time-management-tips-for-mom-how-to-feel-better-about-a-day-full-of-thankless-tasks.html

Juggling Motherhood and a Business? Try These Time Management Tips

If you’d like some really great Time Management Tips that you can use both at home and at the office, check out these fabulous articles that will really help you out:

These tips will get you focused and keep you energized. So that when you do have downtime with your family, there’s enough of you available to truly enjoy them! And isn’t that where the real juice of life is?!

Managing your business and personal life is SO much easier when you have a great support system…and easy to follow guidelines to get you clear and focused on what’s most important to you. My book, Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where to Where You Want to Be, is a great companion and tool chest to guide you on your remarkable journey. To get your FREE chapter TODAY, click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifebook.com/products-programs/products/get-a-free-chapter/.

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

Are Relationship Problems Inevitable? Part 2

Andrea Woolf — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 18:03:47 +0000

Are Relationship Problems Inevitable? Part 2

In the previous article, Are Relationship Problems Inevitable?, clearly relationship problems are absolutely not inevitable. That is of course if you have the right tools!

So, what are the right tools?

First, check in to make sure you have these key elements at play:

You let go of needing to be right.
You’re seeking to resolve and not blame.
You focus on your partner.
You seek to create understanding.
You come from love and forgiveness.
You’re clear what your intention is.
You know your ideal desired outcome.

These powerful elements will help you create a safe atmosphere and set the stage for a positive outcome in any situation, especially in your more challenging relationship moments. With them, you and your partner will have a better chance of easily, quickly, and permanently resolving any and all issues.

Here are great suggestions on how to solve relationship problems by Gordon Huntley, a psychotherapist from the UK, in Part 2 of his article:

Relationship Problems

Part 2. What can you do to help solve relationship problems?

You need to be aware of passive or controlling behaviours.
You need to be aware of blurred boundaries where there is only “we” and never “I”.
You need to ensure that there is never just “I” and never “we”.
Beware of always interrupting your partner and not letting them finish what they are saying.
Beware of automatically blaming your partner.
You need to listen to what each of you are saying.
• Fully hearing what is actually being said.
• Fully understanding what has been said.
• Give time to absorb and not just react.
How does your partner know what you want?
• Do you tell them?
• Do you say it clearly enough in words that can be understood that not only convey your thoughts but also your feelings?
Constantly turn towards each other not away.
No matter what your problem someone else has faced it as well.

You can seek support from relatives or friends, and some may be brilliant, but it is difficult for them as they have a vested interest – you are their best friend, son, daughter, brother, sister. This is where a therapist can help as they are totally neutral. They are there for both of you as you talk about very difficult and sensitive issues and take decisions about your future.

Article source: http://counsellingchester.net/relationship-problems-2/

Are Relationship Problems Inevitable? Part 2

Remember, you will get as much out of your relationship as you put in to it. Just skating along and ‘hoping’ issues will work themselves out will only prolong the inevitable. Real relationship problems!

Conversely, nothing takes the place of your time, devotion, energy and spirit of generosity when it comes to working on the most important relationship of your life.

Using these powerful tools will help you successfully navigate through rough relationship waters:

Make it safe so that both of you feel you can talk about anything.
Manage your emotions so that you’re not just reacting.
Communicate with and not at them.
Make time for your partner – your special one on one time. Clearly prioritize them so that they get that you’re reaching out to connect in new and meaningful ways.
PAY ATTENTION! Make sure that your words and actions are in alignment – say what you mean and mean what you say. Be interested in your partner, and really show up. Be there for them in every way.
Pay attention to the small moments in your relationship. Savor them, because life really does happen in those small moments. Make them matter. Make your relationship more amazing than it’s ever been before. Surprise your partner. You’ll be amazed! Once you do this, THEY will start surprising YOU! Because that’s exactly what will happen. It will be reciprocal.

 Start TODAY and integrate these elements into your relationship – and watch what happens! When you’re proactively causing and creating your relationship, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE..!

Are you ready for more in your relationship with your significant other? Are you ready to find more meaning and happiness? It all starts with you! To experience just how amazing you are much and how much you really have to offer, just click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifebook.com/lifepurposequest to take the FREE Seven Rites of Passage “Life Purpose Quest“.

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

Are Relationship Problems Inevitable?

Andrea Woolf — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:00:14 +0000

Are Relationship Problems inevitable?

The simple answer is absolutely not! In fact, they can be averted altogether. All it takes are the right tools.  

But without them, it feels like there’s absolutely no way to get clear about what’s really going on, and to understand what’s really at the heart of your partner’s and your upset. And so you both find yourselves merely reacting to each other – at times like exposed electric wires!

It’s amazing how one seemingly insignificant issue can adversely every aspect of your relationship, from communication to sex and everything in between.

Have you noticed how sometimes the smallest snowballs can turn into a sudden avalanche and cause real relationship problems if not tended to as they’re building up?!

Below is the astute take from Gordon Huntley, a psychotherapist from the UK, on what causes relationship problems.  

Relationship Problems

“This is Part 1 of a two part exploration of relationship problems. Part 1 briefly looks at possible causes for relationship issues and Part 2 then looks at what actions can be taken to resolve these issues.

As we all know relationships go through various phases and indeed change over time.

In a sustained relationship there are many highs and lows and indeed fairly mundane plateau’s. Many changes happen in life and these can impact on our relationship and even strong relationships can have rocky patches.

Relationship problems can be triggered by a multitude of issues. Major events such as job loss or illness can cause significant personal as well as relationship stress which can then severely test the partnership to breaking point.

There are many factors that can cause tension in a relationship such as work, money, sex, children and these can slowly impact on the health of the relationship leading to issues. One thing that often happens at this point is the breakdown of communication. Unfortunately when life is busy it is only too easy to not realize or ignore how these pressures are impacting on our relationship. More serious issues can then occur such as infidelity.
The fact of the matter is if you believe your relationship is in trouble then in all probability it is! What you must keep in mind is that issues can be resolved.

Remember to look out for Part 2 when we will look at what actions can be taken.”

Article source: http://counsellingchester.net/relationship-problems/

Are Relationship Problems Inevitable?

The key steps to take with your partner before things get out of hand are:

Explore together what triggered the issues in the first place.
Listen to each other with ‘open ears’ – in other words, resist the temptation to be right or need to have the last word.
Look at the role that you played in the unfolding drama, then gently invite your partner to do the same.
Take on seeing the situation from the other’s perspective. It’s amazing how quickly your relationship will shift when each of you have empathy for the other’s point of view.

By simply taking these steps, you’ll cause the focus to move away from being upset and needing to be right, to mutual understanding and connection.

Have you noticed that, when your relationship isn’t going so well, everything seems gray and blah? But when it’s going great, you have a spring in your step and all seems right with the world?

So you owe it to yourself to give your partner and your relationship your all!

If you’re ready to shed those relationship problems and create the ideal life and relationship that you’ve been dreaming about, click HERE or the Buy The Book NOW! link on this site to get your PDF of Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be.

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

P.S. I would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.

What is the Secret Ingredient to Making Your Positive Affirmations Work?

Andrea Woolf — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:00:39 +0000

What is the Secret Ingredient to Making Your Positive Affirmations Work?

“Affirmation without discipline is the beginning of delusion.” Jim Rohn

Are your affirmations really working for you? Or do they only sporadically seem to give you a peek into the life you’re yearning to live?

Just thinking about your positive affirmations isn’t enough. And just writing them down isn’t enough either. And looking at them only occasionally, or tucking them away in a folder somewhere, or burying them under a pile of books and then expecting them to somehow magically work in your life are all less than optimal strategies!

Positive affirmations are really positive and they really work. However, there are various elements that go into bringing them to successful fruition.

What is the Secret Ingredient to Making Your Positive Affirmations Work?

It all starts with creating great practices around them. They will give you the focus to bring your affirmations to life.

Here are some simple and easy practices:

Clarify what you want to manifest now.
Write them down in the present tense, as if they have already come into being.
Say them out loud in the morning and in the evening. Repetition is the name of the game.
Keep them with you so you can look at them often.

The secret ingredient is to use the simple and easy practices on a regular basis. They will give you the discipline and the structure to keep your positive affirmations front of mind.

In this way you will integrate them into your being. And, by using regular repetition, you will harness the power of your mind which will set in motion attracting and manifesting everything that you want!

And to augment your positive affirmations, click HERE or go to http://igniteyourlifebook.com/21daychallenge to take the FREE 21-Day “I AM a Gift to the World” Challenge. Check it out TODAY! It’s an easy, fun and FREE way to connect with and create the vision of your ideal and juicy life.

To your magnificence!

Andrea Woolf

The Queen of Having It All
Author of Ignite Your Life! How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be
Founder of IgniteYourLifeBOOK.com
Co-founder of WakeUpAbundant.com
Ambassador of Manifest Money, HowtoLiveonPurpose.com

P.S. Andrea would love to hear from you! Use the form below to send in your comment or question.