50 posts tagged “baby steps to success”

What a week last week was!

So much information to absorb, digest and add to my repetoire...

Following our graduation ceremony in Tucson, AZ, where I become one of fewer than 35 certified 'money, marketing and soul coaches' with Kendall Summerhawk worldwide, I was invited to give a short speech on stage describing my experience. That's me in the bottom pic with the turquoise jacket.

The last day we heard 3 special guest speakers beginning with James Malenchek (whom I know a few of you know, have heard, or have taken workshops with). He's a very dynamic and enjoyable speaker. And what an offer he presented at the end. I had to control myself or I'd be flying across the country a dozen times next year!

Just to trick you, I'm wearing a brown jacket in the picture with James.

More to follow...

Oh, and check out the new version of my website which is about 1/2 done now (my webmaster is away dealing with a serious family issue or it would be complete). We've also updated my vacation rental site and ae working on my spa site.

Sue Crutcher, CMMSC, CPC, RRPr, CPTN-CPT

Money, Marketing & Soul Coach; Life Empowerment Mentor; Baby Steps to Success Expert

www.SueCrutcher.com           www.GreystoneRetreat.com

Good morning everyone

For those who heard my mentor, Kendall Summerhawk's, teleseminar in July -- she's doing another call TOMORROW, August 13 at 8pm eastern.  For those who missed the first call, you may want to check out this information. She always offers very useful tips and information. If you cannot make the call due to the timeframe, register anyway -- that way you will be able to download the audio and listen when it suits your schedule.

"Shameless Plug" for a teleseminar...

Is There A Formula That Rules How Much Money You'll Make In Business?

Surprisingly, yes! If you've been marketing your buns off, yet find you're not making any more money then, to quote Million Dollar Marketing Coach Kendall SummerHawk, "it's likely you're bumping up against old money 'b.s.' that's keeping you stuck exactly at the income you're at right now."

Kendall knows her stuff, having broken out of frustrating 5-figures to now running a thriving million dollar home-based business. She's working less than she ever has before and making so much more! Now, lest you think she can't relate to the rest of us, let me tell you, Kendall is the "real deal!" All authentic heart and soul and totally devoted to helping women entrepreneurs like us break through our limiting money issues.

That's why you MUST do whatever it takes and come to a free call Kendall is hosting on Thursday, August 13, 2009. She's going to generously reveal "Beyond Mindset: 5 Money Breakthrough Secrets That Will Instantly Transform Your Business Model, Increase Your Credibility and Put More Money in Your Purse in the Next 90 Days than You've Seen All Year."

Ignore these money breakthroughs and trust me, you'll continue to experience the gut-wrenching money roller coaster I know you hate.

This FREE CALL with Kendall is not for the faint of heart! She's going to get pretty personal and tell you the truth - no fluff and no "generalities." These are the PERSONAL money breakthrough secrets she used to go from frustrating 5-figures to gracefully creating a million dollar home-based business in just 3 short years. So this call is perfect for you whether you've just started your business or you've been working at your business several years.

If you know anything about Kendall you can rest assured that this call will be content rich. And, while it is a preview of her brand new Money, Marketing and Soul Intensive: Your Blueprint for a Joyful and Authentic Million Dollar Business LIVE event happening this October 15-18, 2009, she promises you'll get at least 5 MONEY BREAKTHROUGH ideas from this FREE call and her special FREE bonus video series!

You can find out all about it and register at http://www.cartville.com/app/?af=1017796 .

I'll be there for sure so I hope to hear you on the call.

Sue Crutcher, MMSC, PHWC, RRPr, CPTN-CPT

Money, Marketing and Soul Coach

Life Empowerment Mentor

Baby Steps to Success Expert

“Inspiring and empowering Small Business Entrepreneurs to transform their lives to one of amazing success, ease and abundance.”

This week focuses on clearing the clutter of email -- mostly because it's a high priority for me right now. I'm at my 'soft limit' and once I cross it, I cannot receive until the situation is dealt with. It's a bit of a pain, but also a good thing as it forces me (on occasion anyway) to get back on track.

TODAY'S TIP:

Make a RULE for yourself – if you open an e-mail, you MUST respond to it immediately. No ‘setting it aside’ as you and I both know the odds of you coming back to it and actually answering later are close to nil.

Sue Crutcher, MMSC, PHWC, RRPr, CPTN-CPT

Money, Marketing and Soul Coach; Life Empowerment Mentor; Baby Steps to Success Expert

"Inspiring and empowering Small Business Entrepreneurs to transform their lives to one of amazing success, ease and abundance."

Once the surveys are returned to you, go through them and compile a list of the most often mentioned values and emotions. THIS is what you focus on in your advertising – the values and emotions – not a list of services or benefits.

A professional photo of you which is a stepping stone in the trust development portion of a future client’s relationship with you is important.  We’ll talk about the ‘funnel of trust’ another time. Add a simple tagline, a few credentials and of course, several ways to contact you.

You do not need to list all of your services, your detailed price list, detailed mission statement or philosophy. The values, when directed at a specific niche market, will automatically encourage people to contact you for more information, if you have connected with them at an emotional level in your advertising.  Emotional connection and alignment with your personal values is imperative.  It must be authentic and shared from your soul. Entwine the two within your advertising and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a yellow tulip!

How do you determine your values? Try the following exercise; it is similar to what you have asked your clients, but it goes a little deeper. It is personal and unique to you and your experience.

Think of a situation at some point in your past where you were extremely happy, content, pleased, empowered or proud of yourself. Now remember how you acted or reacted.  List 5 emotion words (happy, thrilled, excited…) and 5 value words (appreciated, honoured, creative …) that you feel are important in this scenario.

Next, think of a situation at some point in your past where you were not happy, felt pressured, or were doing something against your better judgment. Again list 5 emotion words (lost, frustrated, coerced …) and 5 MISSING values (respect, honesty, creativity …) in this scenario.

Finally, compare the emotion words from both scenarios and list the ones that appear in both; then compare the value words from both scenarios and list the ones that appear in both. These are your key values in those situations. (You do have others – everyone has core values – a professional coach will be able to help you determine what they are.)

Now, take the clients’ most mentioned emotions/values and compare them to your personal emotions/values. The emotions/values that appear on both the client list and your personal list are the ones to laser focus on – they are what stir your passion. When you are truly passionate about and focused on what valuable service you offer (notice I did not say: “what you do”) clients will be drawn to you. “Why” does this work? That’s an entirely different article.

I’m sure it is obvious that this is a massive topic to attempt to cover in such a short article. For guidance with determining values and how to incorporate them or on ‘creating your soul business’, contact me.

To your success!

PS -- Are you spread a little too thin in your business? Working constantly and still not making the money you want? How could you create abundance and satisfaction in your business? Stop wondering. Contact me. I'm here to help you answer those questions (and many more!).

When you’re ready for the next step … when you are the red tulip practitioner that is doing particularly well … how do you become the yellow tulip?

Approach your business differently than you have traditionally done in the past.

ACTION … Set clear, concise and bold goals – then take consistent baby steps to achieve those goals. Without action a goal is useless and non-existent.

Initially, determining your goals may be one of your biggest challenges. It is uncomfortable to push your boundaries, to do things differently, to be concerned if those around you will approve of what you are doing. In the beginning, you may not know if you personally approve of what you are doing.  It takes time and repetition to be comfortable with change. The more you push your boundaries, the more comfortable you will become doing so. When you are comfortable, it is time to push the boundaries a little further. And so the cycle continues and expands.

ASK YOURSELF: “Who are my favourite, long-term clients? Who are the clients that represent my ‘ideal client’? Which type of clients would I like more of?”

ACTION … Request the above clients complete a very brief survey to help you position yourself better in the marketplace. They will be honoured and happy to do so. After all, if they’re your favourite clients, you are likely their favourite practitioner (or store or consultant).  They like and trust you and so would be pleased to help you and … they would be honest.

The purpose of the survey is to find out what ‘value’ they, as a client, receive from time spent with you.  The number of surveys completed is not nearly as important as the quality … 6-12 surveys should give you a good field of results. There are specific questions you can ask that will help your clients put this rather vague word (value) into context but this is a simpler method for most people to understand:

Question to the client:

“Take a moment to think of how you feel when you are in a session with your practitioner (or consultant, or in your favourite store). List 5 emotion words (peaceful, relieved …) and 5 value (spiritual, honoured, respected …) words that apply in this scenario.”

Include the ‘meaning’ of the word value so they understand in what context you are applying it.

Value val.ue n.

1.      A principle, standard, or quality considered worthwhile or desirable.

Source: The American Heritage® Stedman’s Medical Dictionary

http://dictionary1.classic.reference.com/browse/value

We'll continue ... 

PS -- Are you spread a little too thin in your business? Working constantly and still not making the money you want? How could you create abundance and satisfaction in your business? Stop wondering. Contact me. I'm here to help you answer those questions (and many more!).

Tomorrow, I go back to my regular blog posting.

However, today, for those who may not have stopped by my blog for a bit --

I wanted to give my mentor, Kendall Summerhawk, one last plug for her free teleseminar this Saturday.

++++

The 5 Breakthrough Triggers to a 6 and 7 Figure Business

Do you realize that it’s actually easier to earn more money than it is to earn less? It’s true, and Kendall SummerHawk, the million dollar marketing coach is proof of that. The trick is to know which triggers will allow you to skip years of time, frustration and achingly slow growth so you can leap ahead and transform your business so it practically runs itself and generates secure, steady, reliable streams of income month after month...all while making an important impact in the lives of others and without ever sacrificing an ounce of your authenticity.

And now Kendall is going to share all of this information with you. On Saturday July 18, 2009 Kendall is hosting a free call where she’ll focus on the top 5 triggers she PERSONALLY used to go from frustrating 5-figures to gracefully creating a million dollar home-based business in just 3 short years — the same triggers she normally only reveals to her private coaching clients.

If you know anything about Kendall you can rest assured that this call will be content rich. And, while it is a preview of her brand new Money, Marketing and Soul Intensive: Your Blueprint for a Joyful and Authentic Million Dollar Business LIVE event happening this October 15-18, 2009, she promises you'll get at least 3 BREAKTHROUGH money-making ideas from this FREE call and her special FREE bonus video series!

You can find out all about it and register here.

I’ll be there for sure so I hope to hear you on the call!

++++

To your success!

Today I was reminiscing about situations that occurred when the children were growing up and the discussions that ensued.  I’m sure you’ve personally experienced situations like these as well and, in hindsight, wondered if you had handled them the best way possible.

Example: A co-worker is blaming you or is emotionally out of control and unleashing that emotion toward you in the form of what is basically verbal abuse.

What do you do?

(1) Yell and scream back at them

(2) Raise your voice even louder than theirs

(3) Walk away

(4) Talk calmly and try to get them under control

(5) Ask yourself: “what would I do if…”

No doubt, like me, you’ve utilized all those choices at some point. Did you notice which one worked the best?  I originally told the children to simply ‘walk away’ since that’s what I was taught and it worked in my world. However, apparently, there are people who were taught that walking away during an altercation was rude. My children are mine through marriage and their mother was raised according to the second concept. You can see where this could cause conflict for the children. So, we had to come up with a solution that worked in both homes.

It was determined that

(1) You have no control over how another person acts or reacts around you

(2) You do have control over your personal actions and reactions as in, you make the choices of how you choose to handle any given situation

(3) You should always take the high road and set an example where possible

One of the best ways I’ve found to deal with a situation such as this is to say to myself: “What if this was my boss screaming at me like this – what would I do?” or “What if this was my little child – what would I do?” “What if this was my partner – what would I do?” Or, the best one: “What would Spock do?” (This one works wonders as it allows you to take the emotion out of the situation and then decide what to say or do).

Notice that when you consider ‘what would ___ do?’ that your attitude and possible reactions change dramatically. This can be a very useful tool for diffusing a situation such as the example. Over time, the person who reacts like that will start to change as well – generally they will stop that behaviour in your presence as it doesn’t get the reaction they want or expect (or, possibly, need at some level).

Consider the above the next time you feel like you’re going to ‘snap’. Take a deep breath, calm yourself, ask one of the questions in your mind and follow through with how you would react if it was that person. I’m betting you’ll experience a noticeable shift in your reaction to the situation.

Susan Crutcher, RRPr, CPTN-CPT, PHC

Life Empowerment Mentor, Health & Wellness Coach, Baby Steps to Success Expert

www.SueCrutcher.com; www.Sutopia.com

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Permission to reprint. This article (and all articles on this blog) is copyrighted by Susan Crutcher. You have permission to reprint this article in its entirety as long as you include the following credit with the article:

Susan Crutcher is the author of “Health & Wellness Made Simple” and is currently working on a series of self empowerment books which incorporate her baby steps to success theory. She is a life empowerment mentor, health and wellness coach, baby steps to success expert and motivational speaker, is certified in personal training and over a dozen complementary care modalities with over 30 years of teaching experience. Susan is manager of Greystone Retreat (a luxury rental home on Georgian Bay), co-founder of Academy of Holistic Modalities Inc (holistic education), editor of the Reflexology Registration Council of Ontario (RRCO) newsletter ‘In Touch’ and a founding member of the Grey-Bruce Spiritual Network (GBSN). Download and enjoy a free sample of her book at: www.SueCrutcher.com

Well, Sue, that certainly is a strange lead-in. Yes, it is. Lots of things are strange … particularly how things connect in our minds at times.

There I was, walking backward up a steep hill (well ahead of the unit in case of an incident … wouldn’t want to be crushed by a falling outhouse!) supervising angles and distance below the unit when I realized … about half way up … my shins and glutes were not happy. Ah ha! Something to write about on my blog, I thought to myself…

Quite some time ago there were a series of posts on walking and baby steps to changing your routine – variations on a theme. This is one I hadn’t thought of at the time.

When we walk in our normal manner (or do any other routine for that matter), our body quickly adapts to the methodology. It is important to constantly add in little ‘surprises’ to keep the body ‘on its toes’ so to speak. This one (and tomorrow’s) will do just that.

Is there an area near you, perhaps where you walk now, that has a fairly steep incline? Yes? Perfect.  If not, see if you can think of one. If not, try this the next time you chance upon a hill.

Walk normally until you get to the incline area. Then, turn around backwards and walk up the incline in reverse. If you don’t do this regularly, you may need to pay extra attention to your surroundings … it is more difficult than you think.  While walking in reverse, be aware of how your body is reacting differently. The way it automatically adapts for balance; your weight distribution on your feet; the different stress on your knee and hip joints; the new sensations in your muscles.

These types of exercises are important parts of adaptation for your brain and are very useful as we age. The more aware we are of our spatial orientation, the better balanced our bodies will be. The more balanced we are, the less chance of falling and being injured.

Tomorrow: a variation on this concept.

To better balance…

Susan Crutcher, RRPr, CPTN-CPT, PHC

Life Empowerment Mentor, Health & Wellness Coach, Baby Steps to Success Expert

www.SueCrutcher.com; www.Sutopia.com

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Permission to reprint. This article (and all articles on this blog) is copyrighted by Susan Crutcher. You have permission to reprint this article in its entirety as long as you include the following credit with the article:

Susan Crutcher is the author of “Health & Wellness Made Simple” and is currently working on a series of self empowerment books which incorporate her baby steps to success theory. She is a life empowerment mentor, health and wellness coach, baby steps to success expert and motivational speaker, is certified in personal training and over a dozen complementary care modalities with over 30 years of teaching experience. Susan is manager of Greystone Retreat (a luxury rental home on Georgian Bay), co-founder of Academy of Holistic Modalities Inc (holistic education), editor of the Reflexology Registration Council of Ontario (RRCO) newsletter ‘In Touch’ and a founding member of the Grey-Bruce Spiritual Network (GBSN). Download and enjoy a free sample of her book at: www.SueCrutcher.com  

Those of you who read my blog regularly are aware that occasionally I throw in an experiment for you to try.

As we been discussing ‘your best accessory’ is your smile I have thought of TWO experiments:

EXPERIMENT ONE:

On a day when you’re feeling quite happy, optimistic and perhaps even empowered … head somewhere that is public (a mall, grocery store, walk in the park).

You will automatically feel like smiling when in this mind set. However, do not outwardly smile … keep your smile inside and feel the smile happening from within.

Notice the reaction of people near you … walking toward you down an aisle, when you happen to glance at them.

Most likely you will notice that they smile at you as they near you or upon eye contact.

Naturally, you will immediately smile in return.

They have made your day brighter and you have returned the favour to them.

It’s fun to be the receiver instead of the giver for a change -- relish the experience!

 

Enjoy and do let us know how it works out for you…

Hey, wait a minute! Where's the second experiment?! It's coming up next week...

Keep smiling!

Susan Crutcher, RRPr, CPTN-CPT, PHC

Life Empowerment Mentor, Health & Wellness Coach, Baby Steps to Success Expert

www.SueCrutcher.com; www.Sutopia.com 

+ + + + 

Permission to reprint. This article (and all articles on this blog) is copyrighted by Susan Crutcher. You have permission to reprint this article in its entirety as long as you include the following credit with the article:

Susan Crutcher is the author of “Health & Wellness Made Simple” and is currently working on a series of self empowerment books which incorporate her baby steps to success theory. She is a life empowerment mentor, health and wellness coach, baby steps to success expert and motivational speaker, is certified in personal training and over a dozen complementary care modalities with over 30 years of teaching experience. Susan is manager of Greystone Retreat (a luxury rental home on Georgian Bay), co-founder of Academy of Holistic Modalities Inc (holistic education), editor of the Reflexology Registration Council of Ontario (RRCO) newsletter ‘In Touch’ and a founding member of the Grey-Bruce Spiritual Network (GBSN). Download and enjoy a free sample of her book at: www.SueCrutcher.com

One of the main reasons a person chooses to work with a coach is to reduce, change or eliminate an undesirable behaviour.

However, forcing a client into action when they are not ready can be a mistake and, in some instances, may cause them to regress. Sometimes, not taking action too soon may actually create better results for the client.

Coaches implement a variety of models, tools, formulae and processes individually and in combination while working with clients.  As an example, The ‘Prochaska’ Method involves combining major processes of change (the ‘how’) with a six-step formula or stages (the ‘why’) that we all use for making a permanent change in our behavioural patterns. The combination of using processes and stages at the right time, and in the proper sequence, can dramatically improve the odds of a client making a permanent behavioural change.

After an incredible amount of research, James Prochaska determined that there are six stages that everyone goes through to create behavioural change within themselves. In his book, ‘Changing for Good’, Prochaska details a ‘revolutionary six-stage program for overcoming bad habits and moving your life positively forward’.

The stages are categorized as: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance and termination. There are specific words or phrases that are used within each stage that give clues as to where a client is in their process.

Notice that ‘action’ is not the first stage. It doesn’t matter how many well-intentioned people within a client’s circle of influence suggest the client make changes. If the client is not at the action stage, forcing (or ‘encouraging’) at the wrong time, or in the wrong place, will make little difference in their behaviour. The client must evolve to the action stage of their own volition, in their own way and in their own time.  The evolution may be very fast or painfully slow depending on each individual. Sometimes, the action level appears to be instantaneous, but it is rarely so under scrutiny.

So, how do you know what stage you are at?

When talking to others about a habit that either bothers you or them, what words or phrases do you use? Do you deny or resist using words such as “I can’t”? Perhaps you’re not quite ready to take ownership or responsibility but may recognize that there is an issue and say things like “I might”. If a person makes a public commitment to change, usually accompanied by “I will” they are almost ready to take action.  In the action stage itself, which is the busiest and most focused, the person does things like: starts to modify their surroundings (remove all alcohol or sugary snacks from their home; not keep matches, lighters or cigarettes in their car or purse; increases their exercise level, etc.). They often start their sentences with ‘I am’.

Which stage are you at? Perhaps you have no idea but you would like to know.  Contact a professional coach – they are trained to guide you.

Whether you would like to get in shape, lower your stress levels, eat better, stop smoking, manage a chronic health issue or deal with specific problem, a professional coach can help you.

There are many coaches available today – each with their own style, education, experience and unique personality. Find one that you are comfortable with, that you can confide in and trust. Ask about testimonials, credentials, rates and what results you can expect. A professional coach will do their best to answer your questions satisfactorily. Most coaches offer a short introductory session that allows an opportunity for both of you to determine if you are suited to work together toward a common goal.

Susan Crutcher, RRPr, CPTN-CPT, PHC

Life Empowerment Mentor, Health & Wellness Coach, Baby Steps to Success Expert

www.SueCrutcher.com; www.SueCrutcher.vox.com; www.Sutopia.com 

+ + + + 

Permission to reprint. This article (and all articles on this blog) is copyrighted by Susan Crutcher. You have permission to reprint this article in its entirety as long as you include the following credit with the article:

Susan Crutcher is the author of “Health & Wellness Made Simple” and is currently working on a series of self empowerment books which incorporate her baby steps to success theory. She is a life empowerment mentor, health and wellness coach, baby steps to success expert and motivational speaker, is certified in personal training and over a dozen complementary care modalities with over 30 years of teaching experience. Susan is manager of Greystone Retreat (a luxury rental home on Georgian Bay), co-founder of Academy of Holistic Modalities Inc (holistic education), editor of the Reflexology Registration Council of Ontario (RRCO) newsletter ‘In Touch’ and a founding member of the Grey-Bruce Spiritual Network (GBSN). Download and enjoy a free sample of her book at: www.SueCrutcher.com