In Search Of Heroes Spreads Good News About Everyday, Real-Life Heroes Who Deserve Recognition For Their Good Works

Mind Gold Newsletter Has Valuable Information On Internet Marketing For Those Of You Who Want To Be Internet Heroes Who Have the Money to Make A Positive Difference in the Political and Social Directions Of Society

Building a large email list with five simple steps; using sequence, repetition and multiple media to increase sales with any promotion; going viral with ebooks; and the power of delivering quality content in your emails to keep prospects and customers reading. All this and much, much more in this jam-packed issue of Mind Gold News!

================================================================================

Click Here To view this Mind Gold News Ezine in its entirety.

================================================================================

Posted by ralph at 07:00 AM | Permalink

"Enjoy the Photo Albums From the Jerry Jones Direct Extreme Income Real Estate Boot Camps 2005 and 2007 Where Doctors' Learned Million Dollar Real Estate Secrets and Created Friendships and Business Relationships That Will Last a Lifetime"

Click Here to see the photos of the Jerry Jones Direct Extreme Income Real Estate Boot Camps 2005 and 2007

Dear Friend, enjoy the letter Jerry Jones sent to his list of dentists. I had the opportunity to shoot the photos at his 2005 Real Estate Boot Camp and was amazed at just how much money people are making in real estate.

There’s never, ever been a better time to invest in real estate than today, RIGHT NOW.

And, I desperately want to help every Dentist I know, that will open their eyes and ears, receptive to listening, become Real Estate Millionaires.

...because when I reveal the formula to purchase Real Estate at HUGE discounts well BELOW market value, dealing ONLY with motivated sellers, you’ll never ever have to worry about evening news headlines being right, because you’ve already invested in real estate the RIGHT way, NOT following the herd being led to the slaughter!

About 5 years ago, my life began to take a different course. I began investing in real estate on the side, not really knowing what I was getting into. I bought my office building and the one next to it. Then the chance arose to buy a couple of pieces of bare land.

After I sold my first piece of bare land for a huge profit (I made 37% in one year and thought I’d died and gone to heaven!), I thought, “There might be something to this.”

I began to research and look around me, taking careful notes on who was wealthy beyond imagination. Everyone I talked to or investigated had two things in common. They were businessmen and...they were Real Estate Investors.

The guys and gals around me, in my world, that I witnessed retiring before age 40 were ALL involved in real estate. (One of my friends is 35. He’s sitting on $3+ million in cash in Bonds and CDs, just taking it easy, hanging out with his three kids – ages 1, 3 and 7.)

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

I have to qualify that, because these people aren’t retired in the traditional sense. They are for all intents and purposes, on a very long, relaxing vacation, able to re-start and go kick butt at any time, yet having the luxury of doing nothing, no pressure, no worries (except their kids!).

Another very good friend of mine has not one, but two jets. He flies all over the U.S. investing in real estate, making millions and millions each and every year (more on him later). His family doesn’t now and never will have another worry about finances – unless it’s trying to decide where to spend it.

Then there’s my good friend Chuck, or Wayne as some people call him. He’s a Dentist in a small town here in Oregon, over on the coast – in the Banana Belt of Oregon (didn’t think we had one, did ya?). He has 3 practices, does very well for himself in Dentistry, but makes his REAL fortune (having stashed away millions) from Real Estate Investing.

Let me repeat: He’s a Dentist. Just like you.

So, how are the two of you different? Really one thing, MAYBE two (you’ll have to decide on the second one).

He noticed what I noticed: All the wealthy people he knew were business people that had leveraged themselves into huge fortunes in real estate!

That, my friend, is about the sum total of the differences between the two of you.

Except, once he realized what was in front of him, he did ONE MORE THING that most of us, at some time or another left out:

He Got Off His Keister And DID SOMETHING.

Consequently, Wayne, or Chuck as I call him, is a millionaire not from Dentistry, but from real estate investing. He and I partner on a project now and then, but only if it will give us a profit of at least a half-million or more.

To be fair, Chuck is a little over 50 years old. However, he only recently got started in real estate – just about 4 years ago (gee, it DID take him 2 or 3 years to HIT the millionaire real estate investor status!)

Then there’s my other friend, Dr. Frank.

Frank’s a superstar Dentist Real Estate Investor. I don’t have the figures on his real estate wealth, but I know it’s in excess of a million net. I DO know that he sold his practice when he was about 40 and ran off to a sunny state with his bride and retired, dabbling in real estate on occasion, but really, and I mean really enjoying the good life.

I have one other example, just off the top of my head – although not a Dentist, but an MD. His RETIREMENT wasn’t selling his practice, it wasn’t/ isn’t Social Security (God help you if you think THAT will get you through retirement...You’ll be lucky to get ANY SS!). It was his building that he sold on contract TO A DENTIST that gave him an extra $5,800 per month income. Guess who bought his building? Another VERY ASTUTE Dentist!

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

Guess what his plan is? That’s right...Earn about $10,000 a month in retirement income from the very same building!

I could go on and on.

Smart Dentists all around the U.S. are beginning to see the future crystallize before their very eyes. Here are some startling statistics from the April 2006 issue of Dental Economics issued by the American Dental Association – yet so real and so in our faces, that you should consider, and ignore/refute/dismiss at your own peril. I’ve paraphrased the article which appeared on Page 153 by Thomas Financial:

Recent ADA figures indicated that only 6% of Dentists nationwide retire comfortably at age 60. [Note: it didn’t say EXTRAVAGANTLY]. Worse, many Dentists believe, incorrectly, that the big money in retiring from Dentistry is in the sale of their solo practice. The number of practices being purchased has dropped 10% in just the last few years. Your odds of having a buyer for your practice are getting worse. 25% of the new Dentists are buying 75% of the start-up practices: In other words, 3 of 4 new Dentists are starting from-scratch practices! To compound this already alarming trend, Thompson Financial reports, in this same issue of Dental Economics, that the average return of the S&P Index over a TEN YEAR period is a “whopping” 12%.

[A Side NOTE: If you invested $100,000 for 10 years at 12% you’d earn just over $230,000 in interest. Is that anything for us to get excited about? No, because you KNOW you’re going to have heartburn, sleepless nights and days while that darn, unstable market over which you have absolutely NO control goes up and down like a yo-yo.]

Let’s look at another scenario:

IF disaster struck today (you injured an arm or hand or worse, your vision became compromised), how would you survive financially?

Have you decided that you would have to face facts and lower your standard of living based on what your disability policy will support?

I don’t have any intention of being a Doomer and Gloomer here, but reality is scary...for the vast majority of Dentists.

There IS something you can do about it. Or, not. You DO have the choice of sitting on the sidelines while others move forward, building giant reserves of cash, securing an always uncertain future.

Don’t just take my word for it though..

Here’s what a Conservative by Nature and Profession,

Certified Public Accountant Had to Say About Real Estate Investing…

I recently (July 7th to be exact) had a conversation with my CPA, Ron Hunsaker, here in Salem. I asked him a very candid question:

“Ron, out of all of your clients, the wealthiest are doing what?”

He said, without ANY hesitation, and I do quote him here, now:

“The bulk of my wealthiest clients’ wealth is no doubt in Real Estate. They buy, hold, sell…my wealthiest client is a Real Estate Investor.”

-Ron Hunsaker, CPA

So here’s my challenge to you, before you necessarily believe me, go ask someone you trust, someone who has EXPERIENCE with wealthy people and ask them the very same question. I’m willing to bet the overwhelming majority of the time you’ll hear a very similar answer to what I got from Ron.

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

In fact, Ron also said to me, and keep in mind, he’s not seen ALL of my K-1s (partnership returns I give to him at some point for tax purposes) for 2005 and he won’t believe 2006, “Jerry, you’re going to be Rich someday.”

What Ron doesn’t yet know, and he will soon, is that 2005 and 2006 were unbelievable wealth building years for me. Amazing. And, it’s ALL due to real estate. Nothing else!

Ron got going pretty strong on this topic – you have to understand, he’s a man of few words, and chooses them very carefully when he does speak (He has to be accurate, right? That’s his job!) – going so far to say that his ultimate goal and retirement strategy was to implement real estate investing much like his clients!

And I might suggest to you and to Ron both:

Get Started NOW.

But just like Dentistry and the ongoing CE, training, practice, and so forth that you undergo (and I do to a certain extent with my SofTouch Family Dental Group Dental Practice Management Co.), real estate investing isn’t something you want to run off half-cocked and just start buying without the proper training.

At the urging of my clients over a year ago, I began to assemble the group of professionals that I sought out to teach me the ins and outs of real estate investing – this group of individuals, each and every one of them multi-millionaires in their own right – are now available to teach YOU.

I’ve assembled the most seasoned, skilled teachers, mentors, every one of which is a real estate investor on their own, to bring you up to speed in the world of real estate wealth building in a convenient, fun, action-packed and educational 3-day training event.

(I have to remind myself: Without the guidance, counseling and prodding of this awesome faculty, I wouldn’t have 1/10 the net worth I now have.)

The effects of their teaching have been far-reaching. They’ve enabled me to become the proud-bearer of the title, “Ex Job Slave.” Their teachings have given me the ability to earn $10,000.00, $20,000.00, $50,000.00 and more on a regular basis, month-in, month-out, and most importantly, given me the skill-set to seek out and find hugely profitable deals – like one I just closed the first week of September year – where profits were in excess of $475,000.00 in just 9 months (we closed on this property in January – and we talked about it last December at the first Real Estate Boot Camp) on a less-than-$10,000 investment. Folks, that’s 2 years of hard work for most, high-earning Dentists.

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

So, let me introduce you to your faculty at this incredible 3-day event coming up February 16-18, 2007 in Phoenix, Arizona:

My original mentor – the one responsible for introducing me to the incredible word of real estate investing, none other than the Grand-Daddy of Quick-Turn Real Estate (and master of huge, multi-million dollar commercial deals), Ron LeGrand®.

Keep in mind it’s costing me SIX figures to bring these gentlemen to you. One is from Jacksonville, Florida and once you listen to him for just 30 seconds, your mind will be overflowing with possibilities and you won’t sleep for days!

My friend, mentor, and millionaire-maker, Ron LeGrand® will cover:

Exactly how to make HUGE profits with no money OR credit! This is my favorite part! WHY? I HAD no money or credit when I started investing in real estate. With RON’S methods, that quickly changed! Here’s what he will show you!

Where the big money is in real estate, and how you can get it with NO money, credit or risk on your part. You’ll see how some of this teacher’s students (himself included) make consistent paydays of $25,000 and more on each deal, and how you can quickly duplicate it!

The 5 Steps to success in real estate or any business and why one out of place will crush your empire.

Why the best money is made on this type of real estate in beautiful areas…contrary to conventional “real estate broker” wisdom.

How to quickly capitalize on the projects that do need renovations and avoid costly entanglements.

Ron LeGrand® has become known around the world and has taught more people more about real estate than any other GROUP of teachers combined! He’s created hundreds and hundreds of (probably well over a thousand) real estate millionaire investors!

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

And, you know, if there’s one thing I’ve learned from Ron over the years it’s this:

“The Less I Do The More I Make."TM

Ron’s whole curriculum is built around this focus. You’ll see why it’s not about how hard you work but what you work on. You and I both know this country is full of hard working people who are broke! They all have good intentions but continuously lousy results!

Ron will also reveal:

The two fastest ways to pick up a big check ($10,000 or more) within 30 days after the Boot Camp. This has become common with his students. You’ll see real examples, including one from me where I bought a house for $30,000 and sold it within just a few days for a $15,000 profit because I followed EXACTLY what Ron taught to me in his seminar!

How you can work yourself out of a J.O.B. and into a real life within just a few months! This is NOT a joke! He’s done if for a few thousand folks already. I fail to see why you could possibly be any different! If you want your life back, come spend a couple days with Ron, myself and a few other Millionaire Makers!

How THOUSANDS of his students are getting FREE houses in gorgeous neighborhoods with one key phrase you’ll learn. In fact, this will probably be your chosen method of “buying” houses when you are exposed to these secrets. No, I don’t mean the houses are free and clear. They all come with a mortgage, but they don’t require you to assume or qualify for anything, and most won’t cost you a dime! Yes, it is true! It’s perfectly legal, ethical and very real and actually, very common. This technique alone can and will make you wealthy IF YOU USE IT! I’ve picked up TWO houses myself using this very same technique (and so have several Dentists from my December 2005 Event!) And much, much more!

Incidentally, all of these techniques are taught using real case studies from real students on real houses, many in YOUR area. You’ll see indisputable evidence that everything I’ve written here is 100% true.

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

What else will you learn from Ron?

How to buy a million dollars worth of real estate without coming out of pocket with one red cent or ever applying for a loan of any kind.

How to build a passive income that comes in every month even if you don’t feel like working, or in fact, even if you’re dead. And, I’m not talking about rental properties or being a landlord!
How you can own a beautiful home for your family within 45 days and never fill out an application, apply for a loan, or put up a down payment. Your credit is irrelevant because you won’t be using it.(this LITERALLY saved my own rear end!).

But that’s not all. Ron will also take you through an incredible expose on GETTING RICH in your IRA!

Learn how to use real estate to grow your IRA to a MILLION DOLLARS in less than five years, without ever contributing another dime.

My friend, this very special session with Ron alone is worth many times your investment to get yourself to Scottsdale, Arizona February 16-18, 2007. And believe you me, every word I just said here is absolutely true.

Did you know your IRA can buy houses just like you can? Once you learn to do it without money, you simply make your IRA the buyer instead of you. Now all profits go into your IRA…TAX FREE! (I just closed on a piece of land – 5 acres – where I partnered with my daughters’ Roth IRAs! Their profits will be 100% tax-free for LIFE! NOT tax-deferred! I’d love to show you HOW to do this!)

Your CPA and attorney can’t and won’t teach you this because they don’t know about it! Why? Because they don’t understand real estate investing Ron’s way. Trust me when I tell you it will be a long night after hearing this. You won’t sleep a wink when you hear how you can put your children and grandchildren through college - absolutely FREE.

Call Jerry Jones Direct For DVD Training Programs from the Real Estate Boot Camps in 2005 and 2007 at: (503) 371-1390

Posted by ralph at 10:46 PM | Permalink

Click Here to visit Richard Schefren's In Search Of Heroes page. I will be interviewing Rich in the middle to late part of July. He is offering a valuable Special Free Report that is jammed packed with useful information on how to make more money in your business and spend less time.

Richard Schefren is the person many of the Internet gurus turn to when they need guidance on growing their business. So while you may never have heard of Rich Schefren, you’ve certainly heard of the people he consults with and coaches.

During the time Richard has been working with a group of insiders, most of his clients have posted an incredible record of business growth. And many of them, such as Rob Bell, the head of 1Shopping Cart, attribute a great deal of their success to the advice Rich has given them.

And during the period Rich has been working with the gurus, he’s inspired successful joint ventures with people like Jay Abraham, Jeff Paul, Stephen Pierce, Alex Mandossian, and John Carlton.

Rich has done something very unexpected. No, he’s not selling anything. In fact, quite the contrary. Rich is giving away a special report that summarized some of the steps he has taken with many of the leading Internet marketing gurus.

I’m going to suggest you hurry over to Rich's Strategic Profits Website and grab that report while it’s still available. Rich’s report will force you to think about your online business and suggest ways you can increase your business profits by actually working less.

Here’s what marketing guru Jeff Paul said about Rich, “Rich has more real world business experience and entrepreneurial savvy than most business owners can accumulate in 10 lifetimes.

He's been featured in the media for his business success, from The Wall Street Journal (being featured as "an unbelievable retail turnaround story") and CNN (appearing several times and labeled as an expert in retail marketing)...... To Crain's, Newsweek, Entertainment Tonight, ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, MSNBC, Vogue, GQ, MTV, VH1, The Discovery Channel, The Learning Channel, Cosmopolitan, The Daily News, The New York Post and too many others to list.

Now, here's a dirty little secret about Internet marketing: Most Internet marketing "gurus" who brag about living the "Internet lifestyle" are... in actual fact... working their asses off like slaves!

Why? Because they don't know the REAL secrets to owning a hands-free Internet business. There's much, much more to it than just "automation" and "outsourcing" that everybody and their dog talks about. And there's no better person to teach you all these secrets (that NO-ONE else talks about)... than Rich.”

Here's a small sample of what you'll discover in Rich’s report:

The REAL difference between Internet millionaires who consistently rake in buckets of cash and struggling Internet marketers who can't get off the ground!

The insider's secret that no-one online ever talks about but it's the reason why rookies work ten times more hours then they need to - while guru's are raking it in even when they're out playing golf!

Discover the shocking truth about outsourcing... and the biggest fallacies about outsourcing that no-one else is telling you!

Why almost all the advice you'll get online about niche marketing is 100% wrong!

A simple step-by-step plan to dominate any niche that you enter!

The real secrets for making insane amounts of money with your website - completely and totally hands off!

The unknown story about how success guru Napoleon Hill (author of Think and Grow Rich) died almost dead broke and why if you don't learn from his mistake the odds are high that you just might end up there too!

The biggest 'cash drain' on an online business, and how to overcome it quickly and easily!

I’ve read this report and it is powerful. Rich is revealing concepts almost no one is talking about in Internet Marketing today. I have had the opportunity to hear and photograph Richard Schefren at numerous internet marketing seminars and his knowledge and experience blows everyone away.

Richard definitely knows what he is talking about and is one of those unique people who actually can back up what he says with what he is doing. I look forward to doing his heroes interview in the middle part of July. This is going to be exciting because few of the internet marketers have been so successful.

I suggest you grab this report and find some time to read it – today. Since I am using Napoleon Hills "Think and Grow Rich" model for the In Search Of Heroes Program wealth building training, you would benefit greatly from reading this report if you are starting a business, own one or even thinking about it.

Posted by ralph at 11:04 PM | Permalink

The professional coaching industry has evolved dramatically over the last decade. The profession sprung up fast, and coach training schools were created to meet the demand of people flocking to be trained and have a coaching business.

Within a decade, over 200 schools entered the arena and coaching quickly became a number one choice for those looking for a home-based business or a new career. Many schools did not (and do not) concern themselves with their coaching students' previous experience or education levels and took anybody.

Coaching attracted thousands of unsuitable people, who received training by telephone classes that were impersonal and were taught by coaches who, themselves, never reached financial success.

Is it any wonder that, right now, the coaching profession is on shaky ground? It seems that many coaches have not made money in the coaching business. The schools they attended didn't teach them to be "in business" and didn't provide solid sales and marketing training. In addition, many schools taught a lot of fluff, telling coaches that it wasn't important to create lasting outcomes for clients or that the clients did the work or had the answers. So, clients would hire a coach, not get value, and then quit coaching.

New Coaches were told to join large "international" coaching associations as a way to gain clients and impress their potential clients. However, prospective clients don't care about what organization you belong to. They do care about the quality of training, experience and resources that a professional coach brings with them and they do care about receiving positive outcomes for their money.

Commercial training companies, for the purpose of externally 'legitimizing' their training courses, privately founded some of the larger "international" coaching associations. These associations have a private business agenda that focuses on adding large numbers of members to their database for commercial purposes.

Because there is no standard coaching credential, these organizations are emerging and competing to declare the academic standards, competencies, and code of ethics. A few coaching bodies are working together on this issue; however, most of what is happening seems to come from competitiveness instead of collaboration, which is odd, when you consider that coaching is about collaboration.

There are over twenty-five different major coaching bodies in the world, each with their own political or private business agenda, saying they "accredit" coaches. The one with the most PR is The International Coaching Federation, which was actually founded in the mid 1990's by a coach training school to certify their own coaching courses. Many more have sprung up and it must be remembered that they are all businesses - the more paying members they have, the more money they make. This is not to say that coaches do not derive benefit from membership, but experience shows that it is not a mandatory factor in creating a lasting and successful coaching business.

Coach training programs have also found themselves a bit dry and hurting for students during the past 12-18 months. Some have closed their doors. Others moved out of coach training into other businesses, some are said to be in bankruptcy, and still others are desperately seeking buyers.

This is due to coaches who have come out of coach training, who are not making money, and who really don't understand what credential is or is not important to the public. It is also due to inexperienced people entering areas in which they are not equipped to compete. They have received their coaching designation and simply don't know where to go from there. Their efforts are haphazard, as is their coaching, and what they know about running a business is almost non-existent.

The fact that there is no association or organization that has been accredited by any government body and that no association is at all representative of full-time, professional, practicing coaches making a living from coaching, adds to the strain. When you add the negative comments about the profession of coaching made by such well known institutions as Harvard, to name just one, it makes the profession lose credibility in the public eye and it is difficult for the coach to succeed.

As the coaching industry struggles during these years, it is important to see that coaches can and do still make a great living at coaching and that the industry is still doing a good job of turning out many fine coaches, holding credentials from prestigious training programs.

As the industry has its own internal struggle over credentialing, accreditation, and the coaching programs try to stay alive, this still remains a viable and lucrative business. Stay-at-home moms, consultants, therapists, managers, solo practitioners from other fields, and even the disabled, are finding coaching to be the profession of choice.

The opportunity to make money as a coach has actually never been greater. As the poorly trained coaches and those afraid to sell or market their services leave the industry, this further clears the way for the new people being trained by quality programs, who have excellent coaching skills and can also grow a business. As in nature, the strongest will and do survive. In this case, the strongest are those who have received professional training and have a clear understanding of how to run a business.

The demand for coaching has not decreased. In fact, it is stated that business coaches are sought now more than ever in all size businesses. Corporate coaches are charging fees from $600 to $5,000 a month for coaching sessions. Some coaches are charging $600 an hour or more for corporate work.

So, coaches have the opportunity to earn more than lawyers, psychologists, psychiatrists and others - according to TIME BUSINESS NEWS. Sept.2002.

For people who want to enter the profession, the timing is great. If they select a training program that is stable, has a great curriculum, and also teaches them how to get clients and run a profitable business, the opportunity is ripe. Having said that, not every Coach needs to come from a professional background. There are niches they fill that do not require higher educational qualifications; however, this does limit their scope of practice, and some coach training organizations give placement preference to those with professional backgrounds.

For example, at Comprehensive Coaching, the number one place for Coaching Instruction for 'professionals', we have found our business continues to grow and our coaching students continue to succeed. Our students come from professional backgrounds, and because we teach solid principles and how to coach to get outcomes and return on investment for our clients, we continue to train coaches and they learn fast and apply what they learn to create lucrative and solid coaching businesses. (We also provide coach training for non-professionals, because coach training skills are proven life enhancement tools from which everyone can and does benefit in their personal lives.)

As the market shakes out and the industry becomes more grown up and grounded, the opportunity is there for those wanting to be a coach. They can get great training at dramatically reduced prices, learn at home or with a mentor who assists them one on one.

Their success has everything to do with this solid coaching foundation combined with learning how to have a profitable business, and very little to do with what association they join. Yes, professional coach training does not come cheap, but neither does any other professional qualification. If you just want to learn the coaching skills for use in your own life or current profession, you can save yourself a lot of money and many hours using a home study kit. You can find information on these at: http://terrilevine.com/kits.html. If you are in the coaching industry already and struggling because you are one of those whose education did not cover how to run a profitable and successful business, I can help you there too. Find information here: http://terrilevine.com/FieldTrip.html.

You don't need to be a "statistic"; not when so much help is at hand.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:59 PM | Permalink

When change is introduced into the workplace, there is often a degree of resistance, anxiety and sometimes even ridicule of the new methodologies. People equate change with difficulty and something to be feared. This is where open communication is so important and it starts right at the very top.

If you don't have the full support and understanding of key management positions, any organizational changes being made are going to be thwart with difficulties. It is up to CEOs and Presidents to champion the cause and ensure their managerial teams are also in full support, so that it can filter down through the ranks more smoothly.

It is not enough to merely hand a list of problems and preferred outcomes or objectives to a managerial team and expect them to go ahead and get to work on it. They, too, need guidelines and guidance, reassurance, and training. Many Managers get to where they are through natural progression up the corporate ladder, climbing their way on their years of experience. But this doesn't mean they know how to manage. The Manager of the Sales Department may be an excellent Sales Person himself and know how to train his staff in successful sales techniques and strategies, but as a manager of people and an organizational change expert, he may well be out of his depth. The same can be said for many managers in many different departments.

All the brilliant change plans in the world will fail if those who are responsible for the action have no idea what they are doing and possibly, don't believe in what they are doing. So the first step is ensuring the managerial teams understand what changes are being made and why, and what outcomes are being sought and why. They then need training in the best methodologies for introducing the new systems to their own departments. This requires a whole set of skills many managers lack, simply because it has not been something they have been taught before. This includes people skills, communication skills, and negotiating skills.

But even if changes are not being introduced, Managers who want to improve the bottom line results of their departments need these same skills. By now it is a well known fact that a happy workforce is a productive workforce. Happy workers who enjoy a high morale and feel good about their employer, take more pride in their work and wish to see "their" company succeed. They look after the customers better. They take less sick leave. They're find more efficient ways of doing things. They participate more. They work harder. This is good news for any company's bottom line.

The Manager in charge of this type of workforce is one who knows how to listen to his staff. He respects his staff and their abilities. He asks his staff for their input and promotes a team spirit. He cares about the individuals in his department and realizes that their individual success in a team environment results in success for the company. He knows how to handle trouble-makers and grizzlers and convert them into happy, productive employees. He understands the process of coaching and mentoring those in his care to produce the best results. He is clear with his instructions, and does not play the Dictator role. He does not waste his time looking over shoulders. Instead, he is available for his staff to bring challenges to for discussion and resolution.

Learning to listen, observe, trust, guide and coach employees is not something that miraculously occurs when somebody is promoted to a Managerial position. It is up to the Company to assist their Managers by providing training for them, enabling them to be effective Coach-Mentor-Managers.

Too often, when a department is seen to be in trouble, blame is laid at the departmental Manager or Supervisor's door. Really, there is no excuse for a company putting somebody in a position of authority when they are ill equipped to handle it. This is a problem that will recur until organizations realize that managing people is not a natural ability inherited with a managerial title. Resources are available to train Organizational management teams, and often, all it takes is a phone call to put it into action.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:47 PM | Permalink

If you want a business with strong marketing tools and one where your services are in high demand, you must consider life coaching. This field has over 16,000 people a month looking for life coaches!
Life coaches attract high numbers of clients as life coaching covers any problem. As a life coach you can coach anyone through anything, so you tap into a broad market.

Life coaches speak with potential clients and offer to do a free needs analysis with them. They listen to find the pain the person is having and then they show how life coaching can assist.

Life coaches find their coach training pays for itself in a few short months if they follow a proven, simple, effective marketing system. At The Coaching Institute (http://www.coachinstitute.com) coaches are taught to overcome their fear of picking up the phone and to breakthrough any fears of self-promotion. They are shown exactly how to promote themselves with 10 methods that work.

The average life coach graduating from such a program earns about $10,000 per month to start if they follow the marketing systems. They get, as part of their training, a predictable system to find them clients and they will successful if they take action on the system.

Life coaches can join service organizations, clubs, and leads groups to find clients because personal coaching can solve any problem.

This work is a former sales persons dream!

The Coaching Institute (http://coachinstitute.com) is the one stop shop for life coach training and the number one place for life coach training and has a complete and comprehensive program.

The owner has been training coaches for 7 years and is one of the most highly paid coaches in the industry. Graduates have great track records by following what is taught at this program.

The program provides the methodology and curriculum to that the graduates will take their own client’s through and even teaches a process for uncovering the client's agenda.

Because this program has a unique selling system it gives people a way to justify the cost of life coach training and assures they will get clients.

Being a life coach creates the best mental feelings about what you do and helping people gives you tremendous pleasure at the end of each day.

You can coach people about marriage, relationships, parenting, finances, self-care, balance, work, their attitudes, health, and weight loss… you name it!

Check out this career now and don’t miss out.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:45 PM | Permalink

Happy and work… do these words really go together? Most people haven't thought of them together. In fact, the mere thought of Sunday ending and work beginning on Monday morning is enough to throw many people into a semi-depression.

We have come to expect that work isn't fun, it's tough, and it's something we have to do. But, what if we changed that story? What if work became an extension of who we are and what our life vision, mission, and values are, instead of just a boring way to make money and earn our living?

Companies who are embracing this new Work Yourself Happy System soon come to realize that it is partially the organization's responsibility to provide their employees with a work environment and a culture that is both fun and pleasant. They see the benefits in structuring the work place to be one where people enjoy coming to work, and they realize the cost savings in decreased employee turnover, increased employee morale, lower absenteeism, and more productive employees.

The Work Yourself Happy System brings fun, respect, and acknowledgment back into the workplace and creates an environment where people enjoy coming to work. It contains several key elements that any organization can begin to utilize now:

Freedom - employees want to have some freedom and flexibility in their work schedule to balance work/home life issues

Whole Person - employees want to bring their personalities, visions, values, and talents to work and want a company that allows them to share life interests as well as work interests

Deep Communication - an environment where employees' needs and feelings are heard and fully acknowledged

Be Part of Something - clearly know the vision, goals, and expectations of the company and feel that they belong

Rewards - be rewarded for performance and productivity, not just time spent working

Trust - work in an environment where relationships are created and good will is felt

Inquiry - be able to question employer assumptions, policies, and changes and accept creative employee generated solutions

When employees can see this system being lived by the managers and leaders of their organization, they feel respect, respected, and energized. In fact, they feel revitalized and instead of not wanting to come to work, they become excited about what Monday will bring. They throw themselves full-heartedly into their job, which is now seen as an enjoyable part of their life, and not a drudgery to be endured in order to earn an income.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:44 PM | Permalink

1. Coaching is a new profession

For sure it is not… it has been around as long as the human race with great coaches like Socrates, Olympic coaches, religious icons worldwide and other philosophers. There is nothing new about people assisting people to greatness and the word coach has been around since the early civilization.

2. Most coaches have a full-time practice.

Most coaches do their work part-time or integrated into other work such as consulting, training, teaching, workshops, writing, speaking, etc. Coaching clients is part of what they do.

3. Mental health care practitioners don’t make good coaches.

Oh yes they do! They are incredible listeners and already have many of the basic coaching tools of powerful questioning, sharing observations, speaking the truth, co-creating relationships and come from a place of caring and empathy with their clients. They are way ahead of the game.

4. Coaching ISN’T consulting.

Certainly it is. It is a form of consulting with additional skill sets learned by training as a professional coach.

5. You have to have certain credentials to be a coach.

This is your choice. Clients aren’t looking for people with credentials; they want people who get the job done. If you want to go through a credentialing process, you can, but you can be a coach without that as it is a form of consulting – NOT a licensed profession with a lot of regulation

6. You must belong to a professional trade association to be a coach.

You make your own choice. If you find value, there are organizations you can join. If you aren’t an organization type person, there is no need to be a part of any coaching organization. Trade organizations are choices individuals make and there is no requirement to belong to any organization.

7. You have to have years of training to be a coach.

There are programs that take into account your college credits, life and work history and then determine what core skills you need to be a coach and some of the programs can be done in less than 8 months!

8. You have to take telephone classes or go to workshops to be a coach.

There are programs that allow you to use your peak adult learning styles, and co-create with a mentor, how you best learn and provide you the opportunity to determine which learning you want to do. For example: research, work experience, community service, reading, attending workshops, training, etc.

9. Coaches get clients because they use the laws of attraction and they don’t “sell”.

I bet those coaches don’t have a lot of clients and don’t make a six or seven figure from coaching! Everyone in a business that wants to have clients uses the laws of attraction combined with sales. Coaches who make a living from coaching do sell their services and combine the laws of attraction for an inner/outer approach to reaching clients.

10. Coaches focus on word of mouth marketing and that creates a full practice.

I ask you “what is a full practice?” If you want a few clients and to pick up an extra $1-2k a month, rely on word of mouth marketing. If you want to make a six-figure income plus (even only 50k plus!), you’d better combine word of mouth with Internet, written communication, ads, mailings, publicity, etc.

11. Everyone is a coach.
Come on! We can all think of lots of people who we would not consider coaches…. People who aren’t successful, who are negative, who we wouldn’t want to give us assistance. No – not everyone has the ability, skill set, or composition to coach others to success.

12. The coaching profession is for people 30-40 years old.

While many coaches fall into that age bracket, retired folks make great coaches and have lots of extraordinary work and life experience.

13. Everyone needs a coach.

I wish everyone the chance to try on coaching and see if they like it and if it is for them. Many people may not feel they need a coach or may not accept coaching or be open to change. Not everyone will need or want a coach.

14. Coaches should develop a specialty niche where there is a need in society.
Instead, they can think about their past career and life experience and the what they are knowledgeable about and coach that area or people in their industry. Forget about what people need and focus on what is easy, effortless for you and where you know the greatest number of people.

15. Coaching is about having a lot of forms, resources and checklists to give clients.

Coaching is a relationship with a client and is client directed so how or why would the coach be giving clients this information? From listening to the clients deeply, the coach will assist the client in identifying client-directed, NOT coach-directed resources.

16. Anyone can make a living at coaching.

Anyone who has coaching skills, previous work/life experience, has a vision and strong desire and passion to coach AND is willing to do some selling blended with the laws of attraction and that is NOT everyone!

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:06 PM | Permalink

First, let's not confuse the anxiety to which I refer with clinical anxiety disorders, which are a more serious matter requiring professional medical help.

According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, anxiety is

a: painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usually over an impending or anticipated ill,
b: fearful concern or interest,
c: a cause of anxiety an abnormal and overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs (as sweating, tension, and increased pulse), by doubt concerning the reality and nature of the threat, and by self-doubt about one's capacity to cope with it.

Approximately 13.3% of the adult population in the U.S. is affected by an Anxiety Disorder. We agree, Coaches are not therapists or psychiatrists, and it is not our role to treat these disorders.

The anxiety I am talking about is that suffered by everyday workers, going about their business in a state of stress and discomfort. This work related anxiety is persistent and causes you to worry excessively about events or activities or circumstances at work which may, or may not, even happen… but the fear is very real.

Stress feeds anxiety. For example, in a day when job security is no longer guaranteed, quite often it doesn't take much to turn a "worry" into an anxiety, bringing with it a string of very real physical (and mental) health symptoms.

Before I suggest some tips to help prevent anxiety, it might be helpful to know some kinds of situations that are known for producing anxious moments:

Potential causes include:

being overworked

working longer hours

lack of clear instructions from employers

new management techniques

performance related benefits/pay increases

fear of losing your job/redundancies

harassment or bullying in the workplace

Clearly, if a stressful situation is prolonged, the more likely you are to become anxious about it, especially if you feel powerless to do anything about either the situation causing the stress, or the outcome that you fear will befall you. You'll know the difference between ordinary stress and an anxious state by the accompanying physical symptoms, which may include sweaty palms, irregular and shallow breathing patterns, heart palpitations, to name a few.

So how can you possibly avoid the type of situations described above? Well, it may not be possible to avoid them as such, but with a bit of practice, you may be able to live with them without the accompanying unpleasant symptoms! So here are some tips to get you started…

At work, when you're feeling overwhelmed, go somewhere quiet and take six deep breaths - breathe in deeply, filling your lungs with air, and breathe out slowly.

Consider the consequences of whatever you do, and don't do anything that might lead you to tell a lie about it afterwards or indulge in any other kind of cover-up.

Don't rely on memory - write it down. An Old Chinese proverb says, "The palest ink is better than the most retentive memory."
Don't stress or rush - take the time to ask directions or get clear instructions.

Know the difference between "needs" and "preferences" and don't get too hung up with "preferences".

Take up meditation or Yoga or some other form of relaxation program -make it a part of your life and find time to practice at least one relaxation technique every day.

Learn to say no!

Don't fool yourself into thinking you are "weak" - watch your "self-talk" - keep it upbeat and positive.

Make a list of the things that worry you or cause you stress. Look at each item realistically - list the real or imagined outcomes you associate with each item.

Study them carefully - what, if anything, can you do about any of the things you've noted.

Check back to your list each week and note any changes you feel regarding each item. Many times, writing it down helps and produces clarity.

You will soon be able to discern which fears are foundless, and for the other fears, you will be able to brainstorm ideas that will allow you to tame them, if not conquer them.

Don't be scared to speak up if there are situations at work that are causing you sleepless nights. You could keep going, trying to tolerate it, but this will merely add to the pressures on you and increase the stress you are already enduring, and before you know it, you are in anxiety mode. Choose somebody in a position to help you and with whom you feel confident to share your concerns, and express yourself clearly and calmly.

Remember, what we focus on is what we attract into our reality. So concentrate your focus on the things you do want in your life, rather than the things you don't want. "Positive thinking" is not merely a catchphrase. You deserve an extraordinary life, but it is up to you to achieve it.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:51 PM | Permalink

Where do we begin? Tired of playing 'piggy in the middle'? They cop flack from both sides - upper management and the people they 'manage'. Tired of being one of the first to blame when things go wrong? Frustrated by the lack of back up and support from the upper echelons who expect them to perform the daily miracles required to produce excellent results?

They don the title of Manager or Supervisor and suddenly they are expected to know all about Human Resource issues, communication, handling people, Unions, etc. One day they are 'the best' at whatever they do and on the strength of that, chosen for promotion. The next day they are the Manager, still the best at whatever it is they do, but no further ahead with the knowledge they need to succeed in their new position.

Do they complain and possibly risk losing their new hard-worked-for position or the respect of upper levels of management? Or do they struggle on doing the best they can? As individuals, they can seek further training in their own time to learn effective people handling skills, and many managers do this. However, if you take an honest look at an overall Organization, you'll probably find many departmental heads in the same position - good at what they do, but lacking the skills needed for effective 'management'. So when does the responsibility for further training become an Organizational issue and not an individual issue?

For those with their eyes on a promotion, it would be in their best interests to have this training now. Then, when they are the best at what they do AND they have the skills necessary to be effective Managers and Supervisors, they have a lot more to offer a Company. For those who have already been thrust into the position of Supervisor or Manager, it is the company's responsibility to ensure they have all the tools and training necessary in order for them to perform their duties effectively.

One step Managers can take to make their job easier is to take a long hard look at their own areas of weakness. Be honest. Brainstorm with your department and ask for their honest opinions - make it clear that this is not a blame apportioning exercise and that opinions shall be treated with respect. Instead of feeling that one is on their own in the improvement stakes, make it a departmental responsibility. What can everyone do to ensure your department runs more smoothly and easily? Create a focus on what is already working and build from there.

For those things which definitely are not working, brainstorm as a team. Ask your workforce what they need from you in order to do their jobs more efficiently. Do they need more training? More autonomy? More supervision? Regular feedback? Weekly meetings with you?

Tell your workforce what you need from them. If you want them to just get on with the job and only bother you when there is a problem that only you can help with, let them know. If you'd rather they reported weekly to you on the progress of certain projects, tell them. Chances are none of you are mind-readers!

Your role as Manager will be greatly improved if you open the lines of communication. Do not apportion blame. Rather than seeing your role in terms of "managing," think of it in terms of coaching or mentoring. Experience has shown that employees respond better to coaching/mentoring techniques than they do to the traditional management methods.

This means never being too busy for your staff, never being too self-important, and making time to be their Team Leader. Pay attention to what they say to you. Take the time to listen and learn from and with them. And expect your own 'Manager' or President/CEO to do the same. Have a meeting and be open. You cannot work in the dark. Say what you need in order to do your job properly.

When talking with your staff or higher management, here are 6 tips to help you get the most out of it:

Listen carefully. Don't be thinking ahead of what you want to say - put that aside while the other person is talking and just concentrate on what they are saying to you.

Repeat back what you think they said to ensure you have understood. Use phrases like "I understand what you mean," or "I see your point," and when you don't, ask them to clarify. Get to the bottom of it.

Be honest about your own shortcomings and admit to your mistakes. And if you are going to give feedback, be careful not to do it in a blaming sense. Keep emotion out of it and just stick to the facts. Do not resort to name-calling or putting anybody else down in order to justify your position.

Apologize where an apology is called for. Don't try to make excuses for poor performance - focus instead on what can be done to improve/rectify the situation.

Ask for input/ideas on how to improve the situation.

If the timing is bad for your discussion, be honest and say that you need time to think over what has just been said and make a time for follow up.
As a Manager, you may sometimes feel you have to be all things to all people. It doesn't have to be that way if you focus on a team spirit. You are all in it together and the responsibility for making anything "work" should be a team effort.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:49 PM | Permalink

I talk to all kinds of people, many working in the corporate world, and many more leaving it to stand - or fall - on their own.

Here are some of my predictions for the work force for the end of this year and beginning of the next:

As high as 90% of white-collar jobs will no longer exist or will be changed to so that they no longer resemble the original role.

Traditional white-collar roles will become more project-based, with more individuals acting as freelancers on a contract basis.

More people will leave corporate careers to become entrepreneurs.

Generation Xers will be more likely to work for themselves rather than trust their career and future success to a company who can and will put them out of work when it suits them, as has been done to many Gen Xer's parents.

People will go through a continual process of doing one thing, returning for education, doing something new, returning to education, and doing something different again, and so on.

Another emerging trend is that of specialization among professionals, with new professions sprouting from the old along with new standards of accepted performance and qualification.

More women will enter the freelance field, finding they can be successful entrepreneurs in a range of fields now open to them thanks to the Internet and advances in telecommunications.

The relatively new career of coaching will continue to become a major entrepreneurial option for many professionals, and in the final quarter of 2002 alone, there will be more and more professionals entering coach training programs.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:53 PM | Permalink

"Don't take advice from anyone who isn't successful
where you want to be successful." ~ Joe Vitale

Coaching involves working with people who usually, but not always, already have some degree of success but are "stuck" and want to move forward and don't know how. There is, in coach-speak, a "gap" between where they are right now and where they want to be, and this may involve their professional career or their personal life, or both. This may also be on a larger corporate scale or on a small individual level.

Coaching is a co-creative process. Coaches assist clients to accomplish their life goals and dreams and discover and fulfill their purpose in life in a process that involves the client 100%. So, regardless of whether the issue is career related or personal, a Coach will help you find out what it is you really want out of life and "coach" you to achieve it. Coaching is always about YOU. Coaches are non-judgmental and do not provide therapy or tell you what you should do next. You hire a Coach to assist you to design the life you want - not the life thrust upon you by circumstances or parental influence. If you want more of the same, that is somebody else's ideas, you hire a consultant.

Coaches also assist career professionals who have forgotten how to "have a life" and no longer have work/life balance. With the increase in company downsizing and added pressures applied to many career executives, more and more of these stressed out individuals hire coaches to help them ease into a new career or start their own business, or just cope with what they are currently doing with more ease and joy. And they do all this without advising.

Advising is something that consultants do, and in asking a Consultant for advice, you are asking for answers and solutions and action steps you should take to reach a certain result. A coach helps you find the answers to your issues yourself, and in so doing, you learn more about what is really important to you in life, and you become more responsible and more aware on more levels. If you are tired of being told what to do and of living your life according to other people's rules, desires, wishes, and expectations and want to be successful and happy and fulfilled on YOUR terms, in a way that is perfect for you, then you hire a Coach.

The Difference At A Glance

Coaching Advising
Coaches use a process of powerful questions that taps into the client's own "inner wisdom". They don't provide the answers for you or tell you what to do.

You ask for and receive answers and solutions, given from the consultant's perspective - their "wisdom".

You are expected to follow the advice and often left to motivate yourself to move forwards.

Coaches stay with you while you implement your action plan and remind you about all the other important aspects of your plan that you'd otherwise forget and ignore, such as life/work balance, staying on track, reminding you of other choices you can make, helping you through obstacles, and generally, keeping you focused and accountable.

Consultants deliver their report/action plan, then their job is done. It is up to you to implement it, follow through and remain self-motivated.

The Coach will help you do it YOUR way. If you hire a Consultant for their answers, the idea is that you do it THEIR way; after all, that's what you are paying them for.

A coach will assist you to achieve your goals, but looks at it from YOUR perspective and assists you in a way that is your way.

Coaches care what is important to you, what resonates for you, what is comfortable for you, what brings you joy, what sends you to sleep, and so on...

A consultant isn't interested whether something is boring to you, or difficult, or doesn't suit your personality, or doesn't matter to you, or what brings you immense joy and satisfaction… that is not part of what they need or want to know.

When you ask a consultant for advice, you are getting an answer based on their experience and their personal outlook and their view of your situation from their perspective.

A coach will change direction with you when you want/need to change direction. Unless your 'change' is really a disastrous move, your Coach will not 'judge' or make you do something different.

There is not the flexibility here that you have with a Coach. You do it the way the Consultant says.

A simple change of direction is a whole new ball game.

Coaches take a broader view of all issues affecting your career/life and incorporate strategies in a holistic sense.

Consultants are only concerned with the situation you contracted them to deal with. Anything outside that is not in the equation.

In some respects, Coaching is a form of consulting, in that Coaches assist you to solve problems, reach goals, design action plans, and create the desired results.

However, unlike Consultants, Coaches also help you move away from the things that don't work in your life, toward things that are more in line with who you really are and what you really want.

Life transitions are easier to navigate when worked through with a coach compared to trying to do it on your own. Typically, these types of assistance are not provided with consulting.

If you have no idea what you want to do, all you know is you are not happy right "now", a Coach will help you identify that which truly fulfills you, and establish your "goals", and encourage you to set even better goals that will stretch your boundaries, yet still be in line with who you are and what you want.

Then they will help you reach those goals in a way that resonates with you. You will focus with more clarity and obtain results more easily and quickly - all without being told what to do.

Your Coach will expect more from you than you would do on "your own", and will provide you with the support to see your dreams turned into reality.

But don't expect a Coach to advise you, although there are Coaches who are also Consultants and will blend the two processes in your favor, with the preference being that you still march to your own drum.

When you receive a consultant's advice, you march to the beat of their drum. The question then becomes one of "whose drum would you rather march to?"

Any expert "advice" you receive might be professionally accurate and workable, but might not be something you can work with easily and comfortably - it may not resonate with who you are. It may be very sound advice, and if followed, may achieve the desired outcome, but there are other ways to reach the same "destination" that are more in line with who you are and what you are comfortable doing.

Coaches deliver the goods over a period of months - they don't just hand you a report and go away. When you hire a Coach, even though you won't be told what to do, you will take more successful action more quickly, you will stop putting up with whatever has been holding you back or putting you down, and you will get more of what you want in life.

Even though a Coach won't advise you, they can show you new possibilities or options you had not thought of, however, they won't make up your mind for you - you make up your own mind.

Obviously, when receiving advice from a consultant, you don't need to make up your mind - the consultant makes up his mind for you, which is fine for some people.

A Coach will offer feedback and examine areas of weakness in your plans and goals and assist to look for opportunities for improvement. Some may even offer suggestions to help your own creative process, but the choices and ultimate decision making is always yours.

They use a process of powerful questioning to help you uncover your own answers and solutions, and in the end, what you will have accomplished is in line with your desires and goals - not what somebody else thinks is "the way it should be done."

So, in a nutshell, advising entails telling you what to do and you doing it. Coaching supports and facilitates YOU choosing what is right for you in a way that assists you to achieve your goals. With advice, you do it somebody else's way; with coaching, you do it your way.

As Frank Tyger said, "The trouble with advice is that you cannot tell if it is good or bad until you've taken it."

Coaches won't put you in that precarious position. They will listen fully to you, give feedback and ask you to dig deeper. You will uncover possibilities and your Coach may give you some more to 'consider'. Your Coach will encourage you to explore the options but will never give you the answers - because your coach is not you -and making the choices, finding the solutions, etc. comes from you.

Finally, does it matter? It does if you honor yourself and respect your right to make your own choices and do those things that resonate with who you are. There is more than one way to dance a fling and when it comes to the crunch, our own steps are always the most enjoyable and easiest to 'dance'.

A coach will never tell you what steps to do and you always remain the choreographer of your own dance. Rumba, anyone?

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:04 PM | Permalink

Your Boss holds your future prospects in his/her hands. Expect very few favors from a Boss who does not like you. Some Bosses are hard to please and get along with. Some have excellent qualifications but no idea when it comes to dealing with people. Of course, not all bosses are like that.

Bad relationships with the Boss cannot only mean missed advancement opportunities; it is one of the major reasons for high staff turnover. If you resign because of the Boss, you may also expect a dent in your professional reputation. Imagine having to provide such an 'ex' Boss as the contact referral person at your next interview?

The relationship you have with your boss can be a major factor in determining your rise up the ladder. Your Boss isn't only your supervisor, he/she is also the person best equipped (or should be) to help you do the job you are paid to do. He/she is privy to the company's goals and knows what the company is looking for in future executives. He/she can inform you of company direction that may affect your future aspirations. He/she can put in a good word for you in the right ears. He/she is also your ally when you need back up, support or cooperation from other departments.

Your Boss also needs you, performing at your best, in order to accomplish his/her objectives. He/she needs your feedback in order to provide realistic and useful reports to upper management. You can make your boss look good or bad.

But how does this help you establish a meaningful working relationship with your Boss?

The key is communication. Learn and understand his/her goals and priorities. What is required of him/her and how can you help him/her achieve that? Observe and understand your Boss' work style. If he/she has not been clear with his expectations, ask! Likewise, ask for feedback and accept criticism gracefully. And if he/she understands you do not view your job as just something to fill the hours between 9 and 5, he/she may be more inclined to help you.

Know your Boss' priorities and try to anticipate his/her needs before he/she asks. Don't think narrowly in terms of your own immediate position... try to understand where what you do ties in with the bigger picture.

What other things can you discover about your Boss? Is he/she conservative or informal? Does he/she prefer to be greeted as Mr, Ms, Miss or Mrs, or prefers first names? Is his/hers an "open door" policy or does he/she prefer you set appointments with them? Respect your boss' time. Never barge into their office expecting or demanding a hearing immediately. Does he/she prefer to be kept informed with progress reports, or prefer you show initiative and get on with the job? Discover and eliminate behaviors that would annoy your boss, and never bad-mouth him/her to others. It always gets back via office grapevines.

Your boss is only human. Like you, he/she has off days, and being human, can also make mistakes. Some managers are naturals, and others struggle because communication and people skills are not their strong points. They may not have all the answers, and maybe, their own boss is hard to get along with or has unrealistic expectations!

Don't be a "yes man" and don't offer false flattery in the hope of getting somewhere... it won't work! And don't aim for "closeness" in the working relationship because this can also backfire. If your boss depends upon you too much, he/she won't recommend you for promotions because you are needed too much where you are. Another possibility is, if he/she is not a good manager, he/she may be given their marching orders... if you are seen to be a part of his/her management mishaps, you may be marching out the door with him/her!

Do what you can to stay in his/her good books. Don't take "sickies" unless you ARE sick! Be an effective, cooperative, responsible and courteous employee and team player.

It is possible that you are already these things, and you are working for somebody whose management style disagrees with your needs or expectations. Maybe friction cannot be avoided. So you need to decide just how important your career path in that particular company is, because if you can't adjust and work with it, you may be better off looking for a new job in a new department or company.

In short, getting along with your Boss entails getting to know his/her likes and dislikes and learning to work with his/her personality and management style. And the upside about mastering communication and people skills with your own boss is that one day, those skills will pay off in your own management role with your own team.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:58 PM | Permalink

It's great to see many companies are now acknowledging that the old, traditional methods of management are not effective and they are modernizing their strategies and taking steps to improve employee morale, and therefore productivity. CEO's are taking an active interest because they have to and senior managements all over the world are issuing new guidelines and goals to their middle management to initiate.

CEO's and senior managements accept that low morale among their workforce means low productivity, which in turn, means low profits. Smart companies are hiring Coaches and Consultants to turn this around - everyone wants a happy workforce with improved productivity and profits. Some companies are trying other methods. But whatever method is being used, it still falls on Middle Management's shoulders to implement. They are in a unique position to see what isn't working, what won't work, why it isn't or won't work, and what adjustments could and should be made that would make it work.

Sadly, for some of them, their senior management, CEO's and Boards of Directors don't listen. Sometimes, when a middle manager tries to express his view about a new strategy or goal, senior management can sometimes close their ears. After all, what would this middle manager know? If he was so smart, he'd be "one of us". They may listen just to humor him, but they have their plan of action, and really, they just want him to carry out orders and toe the line.

If the bottom line employee is the one getting his or her hands dirty, it's middle management who has the task of instructing and overseeing the way in which their hands are dirtied. They receive their instructions from those at the top, which is not always the best place to be if you want a clear understanding of what is happening at ground level. Middle Managers who attempt to enlighten them often find themselves doing the equivalent of banging their head against a brick wall.

Too often they are told they are not in a position to "know", and to just do as they are told, which is a shame, really, because they are in a position to know. They may not know what plans are discussed in the boardroom, but they do know whether the plan is working or has a hope to work in real life, or at the very least, be able to identify trouble spots where some tweaking of plans would be ideal.

It is frustrating for middle managers when their senior management, the CEO, and the Board members, expect them to carry out reforms and oversee changes that are designed to make improvements, but may be misguided and miss their mark.

So, does the middle manager assertively argue with his senior management and risk his or her position and possibly jeopardize his own career goals within the organization? Nobody wants to rock the boat if it means their job is on the line, or they'll be ostracized, even if they know they could save the company thousands in mis-spent dollars on initiatives which are poorly designed. And there are those in senior management who simply don't want to be "shown up" by a lower level manager who may just know 'better' than they do… so reports and advice are not passed on. Middle Managers are humored and sent on their way.

What can a middle Manager do in this situation? When he has an idea he knows will work better, but his own senior management won't even do him the honor of hearing it? He knows the instructions he's been given are going to be a waste of time, mostly his time, and there isn't anything he can do about it because those who make the decisions higher up, simply don't want to listen.

This brick wall is familiar to many Managers. They're too scared to speak up too loudly because their family's welfare and the family home (mortgage) are often riding on his/her permanent paycheck arriving each month. He can't afford to rock any boats. Meanwhile, his own boat is sinking and the Captain has left the ship to play golf.

So off they go to try and achieve their set goals and unable to achieve them successfully, yet powerless to do anything about it. The system or the senior level of management has let them down. And when this happens time and time again, it is a very demoralizing experience for the Manager involved.

So, what can a Manager do? There are courses of action one can take, some of which involve jumping off the deep end with their eyes closed - a leap of faith, and some which are just plain old common sense approaches.

A Manager can continue to do what is always done and the organization will not achieve anything worthwhile. If you are the type of Manager who doesn't particularly care, just so long as his gets his/her pay check each month, then there isn't a problem for you.

If you are the type of middle Manager who does care and who is getting a headache from the way the system operates, you can lay it on the line with your senior Management and just tell them like it is - politely, of course. If you strongly believe doing this would be detrimental to your career within the company, then you need to think carefully about this first. Feel your way; find a pair of friendly ears - someone must be willing to listen to you and help you champion your case. If not, is your career really likely to suffer, and if it is, can you live with that or do you have a contingency plan?

If you are really fed up, whether you decide to be assertive and speak up or not, maybe you should speak to a Career Coach or look for a new job. If your income is the sole income that your family depends on, maybe you should also start putting some aside for the possible eventuation that one day, you may be out of a job and need several months worth of savings to live on until you find new employment. If you never need to use these funds, the little nest egg you've saved will always come in handy for other things.

Maybe you can put it in a report and present it if a verbal presentation is out of the question. Or maybe you can organize a private chat with an influential senior level Manager, or the CEO, and have a heart to heart. Maybe the problem is with your own immediate manager. That's a common scenario. You could try providing your immediate manager with a written report and copy it in to the CEO, and that way, whether your own manager is dismissive or not, you know the CEO is finally going to hear/read what you have to say.

Don't just criticize any goals or plans or instructions that have been handed down for you to carry out without providing sound reasons and examples of why it doesn't work, or won't work, and perhaps hasn't worked in the past. List alternative courses of action that you believe will work and ask for permission to try them. Where possible, show evidence of where and how your suggestions have worked and why they will work in your current situation. Show the organization the benefit to them of implementing YOUR strategies rather than the ones they have designed. And don't dismiss the possibility that maybe senior management does know something you don't, and maybe once they enlighten you, you will feel differently about everything!

Then there are those who admire managers who are willing to take risks. But it's a fine line between showing initiative and insubordination. To deliberately disregard a directive from your own senior manager and implement your own plan which you believe will work (and his won't) takes more than just courage. If you are wrong, your job and your reputation are on the line. Of course, if you are wildly successful, even the CEO will sing your praises (although there will always be some slight concern about your willingness to toe the line!)

In some organizations, middle management are not expected to make certain 'executive' decisions and their level of authority and responsibility is low. They are just a link in the chain of command. Some managers are happy to be here - they can safely 'pass the buck' upline. Many managers at this level are too scared to make decisions or instigate their ideas for change for fear of negative repercussions in the form of losing one's job, or chances for promotion.

The trouble has always been, and continues to be, that in some very large organizations, senior level management are too far removed from the real day-to-day operations to know what is going on, let alone what will and will not work. When something fails, rather than admit the plan was bad, blame is laid at the middle Manager's feet. It must be his fault - couldn't possibly be our excellent plan!

This situation can occur in both large and small organizations. It occurs in very large organizations, because usually a more authoritarian style of management tends to be used. In this situation, middle managers are expected to do as they are told and not question their superiors. However, larger organizations who train their managers in a more participative style of management and who practice open communication and the expression of ideas are happy to find this system works.

It occurs in smaller companies because unlike the larger companies who can at least afford to hire experts to help them, smaller companies rely on their existing resources and their own board of directors. On the plus side, smaller companies find it easier to adopt a team spirit and engage in teamwork - which involves the middle manager, naturally, but all is not necessarily plain sailing if there are personality clashes or the company has limited funds to bring in outside experts and instead, consider themselves to be the experts.

Senior level management need to take more notice of the Managers below them. Listen to them and their suggestions; include them at your around table discussions and forward planning sessions. It may save your company thousands of wasted hours and dollars, and if nothing else, will improve your middle management's morale and their own level of productivity!

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:02 PM | Permalink

Do you ever feel that sometimes your life is dull? One morning you just wake up and think, “oh, what’s the use!” - and you want to dive under the bed covers and stay there?

Maybe we have a job we don’t like but we do it because we need the money. Maybe we’ve lost contact with friends and we’re lonely and bored. Maybe we’re workaholics and don’t have time for a life… only work. Maybe we don’t have a job at all, and maybe nothing interests us… we start to exist, rather than to live. Carrots have more fun, we think… at least they hang around in bunches and have friends…

There are many reasons why the zest goes out of living. There are some things we can do, however, to put the oomph back into our days.

Oomphy type things needn’t cost money. Have you heard the expression: “a change is as good as a holiday?” Even subtle changes to our lifestyle, our surroundings, and our routines can seem exciting and adventurous after weeks, months, and years of stagnation.

Here are some ideas that illustrate what we mean:

* Try changing your hair color and hairstyle. Update your wardrobe. If you’re used to wearing heavy make up and painting your nails, try going natural. If you’re used to the natural style, try a bit of glamour! Do something different with yourself!

* Rearrange your lounge and bedroom furniture. You can give yourself a new living environment without moving residence or spending money on new furnishings… work with what you have.

* Change what you eat for breakfast – or buy yourself a new plate and cup – something fun and ‘upbeat’ – make breakfast time ‘cheery’.

* Change the route you take to work. If this is not practical or realistic for your situation, think about ways in which you can make the journey “different” and enjoyable… have an adventure! You don’t have to do it every day… even once a week can be enough to add some color to your everyday existence.

* Don’t do the same old ‘same old’ in your lunch break (you DO have a lunch break, yes?!!). If you don’t, starting now, take one, even if it is only 15 minutes… that will do for a start. If you eat your lunch at your desk, and you tend to work while you eat – STOP! Read something while you eat and then as soon as you’ve eaten, go out and window shop or do anything for even just 10 to 15 minutes. Get out of the building. Browse through the local stores – anything, as long as it gets you out of the office doing something different.

* Join a group – local choirs, sporting teams, photography groups, line dancing, ballroom dancing (you don’t need a partner!), chess groups, writing groups, etc. It is often easier to make new friends when you are on your own. Other people see you by yourself and want to make you feel welcome, whereas if you are already with somebody, they figure you aren’t likely to be lonely so they are not always so forthcoming.

* Take up a new hobby. Learn the guitar – doesn’t matter how old you are. We know a 50 year old who recently took up the banjo! Take singing lessons. Take up something that is both enjoyable and challenging.

* Become a volunteer. Animal shelters, aged people, special needs children groups always need volunteers. What an easy and excellent way to meet people and give meaning to your own existence, as well as helping the less fortunate! But don’t just think “charity groups” - your local school may need volunteers for the school canteen. Your local Church may need help organizing fetes. Get the idea?

* “Oomphasize” your job. Study your job and your role in the department. What could you do that would (a) please you to do it, and (b) benefit the department? Next, chat with your Manager. If he or she is aware that you wish to spice up your job, take on some new tasks or responsibilities etc., then he/she is in a position to help you do something about it. If you never say anything, management will never know and nothing will ever be done. Management may have no helpful ideas and this is why YOU do some research yourself so YOU can tell THEM what would benefit your position and the department.

* If you are in a factory line doing repetitive, mundane tasks, why not ask your supervisor if you could take turns training in different positions and spending some time in different areas – not only will this give you a break from the regular monotony of your own job, but you can point out that doing this will mean the department always has backup support.

* If YOU are the Manager and YOU are feeling dull, you can consider hiring a Career Coach. What can YOU do to liven up your own role? Is it time for a change? Would going back to night school, to refresh or learn new skills, aid you in getting on in your chosen field or perhaps trying something different?

* Ensure you make the most of your leisure moments. When was the last time you went fishing or camping? Hung out with friends? Did something special with your family? Make the most of your weekends… don’t take work home with you. If you must work weekends every weekend, then clearly you are being given too much for just one person… look around. To whom can you delegate? If you cannot do anything about it and to speak up might jeopardize your position/future prospects, then you are being used. The question then becomes one of how long you can put up with that before you crack up?

Workaholics are so busy, they aren’t even aware their life lacks oomph! One secret to living life to the fullest and enjoying oomphy days is simply to enjoy today... enjoy the moment.

Ensure that the things you do and experience in your Present, are things that really matter to you. Don't waste these precious present moments doing things that other people think you should do. Their perspective is only appropriate to themselves. Set the goals that are best for you.

Look upon each day as a precious gift. You are not here to race through the days as quickly as possible, skimming over the details. You are here to experience each step of your life's journey, to learn from it, to savor it, to enjoy it. Yesterday is too late; tomorrow isn't here yet... you only have today. So put some oomph into it!

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:48 PM | Permalink

Face it. People don't want to be sold. They're tired of being one of the "suckers" who are supposedly born every minute. They're suspicious; they don't like parting with their money, and to many people, ALL sales people are the same. They know you are after their money. They know you do not have their best interests at heart. They think you are pushy and arrogant… somebody who might sell their own grandmother if it meant a bonus!

But people love being coached. It's respectful and considerate of their needs. it helps them focus on what is right for them. In fact, it's all about them - the client. It doesn't matter to you if you make a sale or not, and they appreciate that… in fact, they just may buy something from you after all… you're so 'nice' and honest!

The days of the old-fashioned salesman/woman have long gone. For many in the sales profession, they know what not to do, but they aren't quite sure about what they should be doing. And the answer is quite simple… learn and apply coaching skills to your selling situations.

H.R. professionals and Managers are embracing coaching skills now because they realize this is the best way to deal effectively and successfully with all types of people. It entails a special honesty and openness that up until very recent times, was not a reputation the sales profession enjoyed. One of the wonderful things about coaching is that it can be applied to anybody in any situation with remarkable results. The reason it works is quite simple. People like to feel respected and honored as intelligent and worthwhile beings. They like to be listened to and understood. They like others to be honest with them and not manipulate them. When you make somebody feel this way, it is very interesting to see how cooperative they become.

As a Sales "coach", instead of worrying about closing the sale, you can relax and coach people into a sale. Instead of struggling with resistant prospects, you can coach them into doing the right thing for you and for them. Once you cease to be pushy, people cease to resist. When coaching a client, rather than selling to them, you listen to what they have to say, and by listening very closely to everything they say rather than thinking about what you will say next, you can learn if they are likely to be a fit for whatever you are selling and how best your product or service may serve them. You will learn what their objections are and whether they are reasonable or something that can be overcome. This process is a gentle, friendly and polite way to do business and it is one to which more people respond favorably.

In essence, people come to see you more as a trustworthy advisor rather than somebody with ulterior motives and your eye on their wallet. Leave your sales pitch in your briefcase… when coaching your customer you start with questions, and then listen very carefully to the answers. Don't speak to them like you would to a ten year old or somebody whose mother language is anything but English. Speak to them as you would to friends. You don't push it if your customer seems anxious to get away. Maybe they are busy and your timing is bad.

When you have listened and learned about your prospective customer's needs and situation, you are in a position to know whether what you can offer will be of real benefit to them. Don't try and recite the sales brochure, just select a few things about what you can offer that apply to their situation. If you were listening closely to them, this part will be easy. Then invite them to take the next step, and don't get anxious at the last minute and resort to hard sales techniques from yester-year in an attempt to close the sale. Leave the ball in the customer's court. Establish your integrity and sincerity first. You have to "sell" the person on YOU first, before you can sell them on your product or service. And it's important to note that people can spot a phony a mile a way. It's better to leave your card, a brochure and other pertinent details with them and invite them to call you at any time, no obligation, if they'd like further information, than undo all your efforts by trying to close the sale with the old traditional methods and risk losing them even as a future customer.

A not so obvious benefit of this approach is even if this customer isn't interested, they may know somebody else who would be. Word of mouth referrals are powerful. Never forget that every prospective customer to whom you speak may be able to bring more business your way. What would you like them to say to their friends about you and your product?

So don't think of yourself as a salesperson in the future… think of yourself as a friendly and trusted advisor, who just so happens to have a particular brand or service he recommends. Never run down your competition. In fact, if you believe your client would be best served by another company's product, you can earn valuable points by telling them about it.

It sounds easy, but when it comes to putting it into practice, these skills do not necessarily come naturally to everybody. But there is no need to despair. There are some excellent training programs around - there are some duds too. It pays to do your research when looking for training. Or if time and money is an issue, you can invest in a home-study coaching kit and learn these skills in your own time. Click here to view information on one of these kits.

It doesn't really matter which method you choose to upgrade your skills, just as long as you do upgrade. "Selling" is so "yesterday" and your customers are much more wiser and savvy than they used to be.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:50 PM | Permalink

Every office has one... the co-worker from hell. That one person who rubs everyone up the wrong way, is uncooperative, unpleasant, disagreeable... well, you get the picture. There is no magic spell that can turn them into Prince and Princess Charmings, but there are some strategies you can try that might help to make working with them less stressful.

You are all on the same team.
Despite your differences, you do rely on each other and are thrown together on a daily basis to achieve joint goals. So, if you first try to think of your work unit as a "team," and the unpleasant person as part of that team for better or for worse, then you are one step towards finding harmony.

Do you know their 'story'?
You don't know the real story behind your co-worker's unpleasantness. We are not all on the same level of evolution and it could be he/she does not have your skills or ability to cope with stresses and problems in their life, problems that you may know nothing about. There may be a very good explanation for the chip being carried on their shoulders. This does not excuse their behavior, but may explain it or make it easier to live with.

Don't take it personally.
Ignore any unpleasant behavior that is exhibited when you can and keep the lines of communication open. When this worker realizes that they are not getting a rise out of you, they will tire of the effort and "settle down." When they realize that regardless of what they say and do, you are still open and positive with them, you will gradually notice a change in the way they deal with you.

Maintain your own dignity.
Treat this co-worker with respect. It is not up to you to be judge and jury and decide on his/her worthiness - the fact he/she is a human being sharing the planet to learn and experience should be enough in itself. This means remaining pleasant and honest with them. Don't talk behind their back. Keep your own communications and interaction with them friendly and respectful.

Are you totally innocent?
For all you know, it could be a mannerism or behavioral trait of your own that sets this co-worker off. Think about the situations in which conflict has arisen... have you said or done anything that may have contributed to it? Do you react defensively all the time to this person's comments or behavior, taking everything personally? Do you hold grudges? Do your facial features or tone of voice tell this co-worker that you don't think much of them? Without being aware of it, are you putting this person down? What message, subliminal or otherwise, do you convey in your interactions with this person?

Live and let live.
Don't expect this co-worker, or any other person for that matter, to work the same as you, or be the same as you in other ways. Everybody is different. What you may see as laziness, may simply be a more laid-back, relaxed approach to work and life, or it may be a lack of confidence or a fear of failure holding your co-worker back. Observe them discreetly to see if this is the case. Maybe an offer to help them would work wonders. If you are something of a control freak, or somebody who thinks things should be done in a certain way because "you" believe that is the best way, then maybe the problem is really with you...

Making an effort.
If your co-worker seems suspicious with your "new" attempts to build a better working relationship and asks you why you're acting differently, you can deflect any potential new problems by turning it around and saying something like, "I thought perhaps I may have been a little difficult to work with, and I'm trying to be better." Even if you've been an absolute angel and the co-worker from hell has been the bad-guy all along, this type of response will not make matters worse, and may, in fact, cause them to ponder their own shortcomings and make an effort to do better themselves.

Make them feel worthy.
You never know, this co-worker may be intimidated by you, your age or experience. Maybe, in some way, you make him/her feel less worthy, insignificant. Try including them in projects... ask for their opinions. You don't have to use their suggestions, but the simple act of asking and sincerely considering it will make them feel better about themselves and their position. Many times, these troublesome co-workers are lashing out for reasons they perhaps don't quite understand themselves.

Look for common ground.
Do look at the way you interact with others in your department or organization and compare this with your interactions with the troublesome co-worker. Chances are a pattern has been established of which both of you may not be consciously aware. It is very difficult sometimes, but it is crucial not to be judgmental. Try to find things you may have in common that will permit friendly small talk. Even an opening question about a sports game that was held on the weekend may help - provided you both support the same team!

Keep your sense of humor.
Remember, you don't have to marry this person... just work with them. Try instilling a little humor into uncomfortable situations rather than reacting defensively or aggressively or emotionally.

Find out what you can about this co-worker. Discreetly!
Are they excluded from social gatherings, or are they 'shy' and stay away? Why not encourage them to participate in company functions… offer to accompany them (many co-workers from hell are really insecure inside!).

You could try the direct approach and just come straight out and say "Okay, this has gone on long enough. Let's bury the hatchet and start over." And in the same breath you might suggest lunch together. This approach is likely to startle and stun them… don't be surprised if they do goldfish impersonations.

Ignore them.
If all else fails, it is not your responsibility to 'save' this co-worker, and if simple remedies have no effect, it may be necessary to simply ignore this co-worker's shenanigans and only deal with them when you have to.

Call in the Big Guns
If things are that unpleasant that you're thinking of quitting, then maybe you need to have H.R. management step in. Maybe a strong word from upper management will have a more immediate effect than anything you can do or say, especially if your co-worker is a real bully or very unpleasant to work with.

Never play their game.
Whatever you do, never resort to name-calling, insults, sarcasm, or use any of the types of tools they have in their arsenal to fling at you. Refuse to buy into their 'game'… it is "their" game - not yours!

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:54 PM | Permalink

Be the change you want to see occur in the world around you. We can't make other people be more considerate, helpful, honest, etc., but if everyone were to work on themselves and develop these attributes, our world would be a better place.

Don't be judgmental. Look for and recognize the good in yourself and in others. We are all capable of so-called "good" and "bad" behaviors and we all have our "good" and "off" days. We are all unique and it is wonderful that we are different and not all the same - in our appearance, our thoughts, our opinions, our likes and dislikes. Being different is not threatening, it is not "bad", it is just "different". Embrace the differences and be happy for the variety. Likewise, forget the concepts of "right" and "wrong". People are not good or bad or right or wrong; they just are. If you were in "their shoes" maybe you would act differently, or maybe not. Being judgmental wastes time and cuts you off from opportunities and meaningful relationships - because you are not perfect either, and your judgment might be worse than the person's you are judging!

Respect. Don't make the mistake of thinking your rights are the only ones that count. Don't ignore the other person's rights. Our fundamental right is to be respected. Being wealthy does not make a person more deserving of respect and neither does a high-flying career with a fancy title. Respect is not about material issues or where one sits on the social ladder. Respect is acknowledging another human being's dignity and treating them how you wish to be treated yourself. We all came on to this earth equal and we're all checking out as equals. What happens in between is just a series of different life experiences. The poor man who lives in a slum, who cares for strangers, volunteers assistance without expecting anything in return and lives a clean, honest life is more deserving of respect than a wealthy businessman who dresses in fine clothes, lives in a huge mansion, and treats everyone like pond amoeba, cheats on his wife, swindles his shareholders and has forgotten how to tell the truth.

Be a Good Listener. How often do you really listen to other people? How often do you plan what you are going to say next while they are talking, or allow your mind to drift off onto something else instead of concentrating on their every word? It takes practice to be a good listener, but in being one, you are showing respect and in a position to better comprehend the real message being given to you. You avoid misunderstandings and missed instructions. Furthermore, the other person will appreciate your attention and return the courtesy.

Be interested - not interesting. This goes hand in hand with being a good listener. People love to talk about themselves and will delight in the opportunity to do so, so ensure you ask questions and take an interest in what they are telling you. Don't worry about them hogging the limelight - you can have your turn during the conversation. Have you ever met someone who only talks about themselves? Count the number of times you use "I" in your conversations. Judging, arguing points, interrupting the conversation, and using "I" a lot are sure signs you need to review your communication skills.

Respond from Your Heart. We tend to respond to others using our head, not our heart. We formulate stories about us, we defend our ego, or we judge other people or what they have said. If we respond from our heart, we can respond with understanding and a sense of connection. Find something good to say about people and to people. Build people "up" - don't knock them down. Go with your gut instincts.

Be truthful. There is a good reason for the saying "honesty is the best policy." Nothing good ever comes from lies, and there is a difference between being diplomatic and telling an outright lie. Nobody trusts a liar. If you've made a mistake, well, welcome to the human race! You don't have to lie to cover it up. You don't have to tell your truth "brutally", there are gentle and tactful ways of delivering truths and you should think carefully before you speak. But don't try to be deceitful because it has a habit of coming back to haunt you, and in those situations you are worse off than if you had just come clean in the first place, as uncomfortable as that may seem at the time.

Be helpful. When you need a helping hand, don't you just love the person who comes up and offers that to you? Wouldn't you love the opportunity to repay them? You can be that person that others look to respectfully with gratitude in their hearts, who will, one day, repay the gesture. What comes around, goes around. If you want people to be helpful to you, you must be helpful to others. It doesn't matter whether this is assisting your boss with a special project you can see he needs help with, or a co-worker who is struggling with a large workload, or an elderly neighbor struggling up the stairs with her arms full. People do remember kindness.

Maintain Your Integrity and Your Dignity. People with their integrity intact are easier to deal with in work or personal situations. They know where they stand and you know where you stand with them. You will feel better about yourself when you set your standards and stand by them and you will attract those who respect your standards and who have standards of their own. Being a doormat is disrespectful to yourself and to the person 'walking all over you'. It does not allow them to grow and learn to do something for themselves. Learn to say no gracefully. You have as much right as everyone else on the planet to have your own opinion and your own way of doing things, and reminding you of point (1) above, nobody has the right to make you feel 'bad' if you think, feel or dress differently. Remember, "to thine own self be true."

Go the Extra Mile. I mean this in a couple of ways. First, whether you are either asked to do something, or you are offering to do something, remember that if something is worth doing in the first place, then it is worth doing well. And while you are at it, what little touches can you offer to improve it? For example, who would you rather go to for your shoeshine… Mr. A does a wonderful buff and polish and is timely and not too expensive. Mr. B also does a wonderful buff and polish, he is also timely and not expensive, but he is also cheerful and interested in you and whistles while he works, so after your polish, you go on your way feeling on top of the world! Mr. B just went the extra mile for you. He didn't just polish your shoes, he lifted your spirits and made you feel good. If you are offering a co-worker assistance with copying some documents, go the extra mile and ask if she needs a hand stapling them or collating them. Going the extra mile need not involve a large expense of time, energy or money, but it's value to the recipient is often priceless, and one day, it will be reciprocated.

Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say. Neither beat around the bush being evasive, nor make promises you can't keep. On the other hand, if you say you are going to do something, do it. Be known as a reliable person. Honor your promises and agreements wherever possible - this stems back to integrity. Prepare to be flexible if need be, but know that you don't have to bend over so far backwards that your back snaps. Being assertive and being aggressive are two entirely different things, and you do not need aggression to be assertive. In fact, you are better off without the aggression! If you are wishy-washy and allow people or circumstances to be unconcerned for your position, you will develop that reputation and find more and more people willing to walk all over you and more situations in which it occurs. Being like this does not prove you are valuable to anybody - it just means you are a 'pushover'.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:54 PM | Permalink

Morale is at its lowest ebb due to the anxiety associated with the threat of further terrorist attacks, concern with fellow workmates and loved ones fighting overseas, and decreased job security because of the economy and an unknown future. As if this were not enough to contend with, smaller, unspoken wars are fought among employees as they argue over who is right, (war protesters and war supporters), creating divisions and splitting harmony.

Businesses are disrupted not only because of the insecurity of an uncertain economy, but also because they are losing personnel to military call up, leaving behind employees who must take on extra duties to cover the absentee, as well as handle the daily stress and anxiety brought on by the war itself.

If ever a company was going to introduce morale boosting techniques into its workplace, it should be now. Leniency should be shown towards employees who spend an extra five minutes around the water cooler discussing the latest war news, because that extra 5 minutes could be the difference between an unproductive employee and a productive employee. People need to talk about their fears and concerns, they need to get it off their chest, so they do not continue to dwell on it and they can move on with their activities.

Leniency should also be shown to employees who have immediate family members fighting overseas. It is understandable that performing their work will pale in significance against concern for the welfare of a father, husband, boyfriend, or brother fighting overseas.

Counseling services can be considered for businesses whose productivity is noticeably affected, and this will benefit all employees, whether they have loved ones overseas or not. Employers with Employee Assistance Programs should make contact information available, and they may also consider the American Red Cross who provides resources and materials to help people, including children, cope with trauma and anxieties. Whatever investments or allowances companies make for their employees, it will be remembered long after the war, and they will be rewarded by employee loyalty and healthy production.

Other strategies companies and employees can consider to boost morale and feelings of usefulness may include fund-raising events and donation drives, even blood donations. Bringing employees together and developing a supportive team spirited environment is important. If division exists with pro and anti war supporters working closely together, they should be encouraged to respect each other's opinions and agree that the most important issue is that the troops should return home safe and sound and focus on that.

If the economy dictates that layoffs must be considered, employers should ensure severance packages are adequate, and help should be offered to assist affected employees to find new employment. Consideration must also be given to those employees left behind who may suffer feelings of 'guilt' for surviving the downsizing. Some companies may be in a position to consider putting the problem to their employees who may come up with ideas previously not considered and which may mean less or no job losses, or who may prefer to, and be in a better position to decide who can most afford to be laid off and who cannot.

It is not a good idea to leave radios playing all day long with war coverage. Not only is this distracting, but it does nothing to improve morale. By all means, allow lunch time news announcements, because people do want to be kept informed, but limit it to one room/office area so that those who do not wish to hear it, do not have to.

All efforts should be taken to brighten up the workplace now, and I'm not talking about a new coat of paint. Inject humor into the workplace and a fun atmosphere to counteract the heaviness being felt by employees. I'm not suggesting you turn your office into a three ring circus, but you can encourage everyone to smile by producing a light-hearted newsletter, hold inter-office fun competitions, etc. Companies can even survey their employees for ideas. Lifting morale need not be an expensive exercise and in many instances, will just require some imagination and persistence. Encourage managers to move through their departments more regularly, smiling, asking people how they are doing, offering light-hearted small talk to lighten the mood of the office/factory.

Employees may feel powerless and useless. Companies can motivate their employees by advising them on issues that reflect not only safety strategies whilst at work, but ways in which they can keep their homes and families safe. Organizations can find ways to show employees that what they are doing is worthwhile, useful, and if possible, extend that further to show how that helps the war effort. (Even if only to ensure the troops return home to find things as they left it, and not running downhill.)

Employees themselves should talk to their Managers and express their fears and concerns. It should be possible, under the current circumstances, for employees to negotiate time off if /when needed if immediate family is overseas serving in an active capacity in Iraq. These employees will have their down days and if they know their employer is sympathetic and supportive and willing to compromise during these difficult days, it eases the pressures a little from the employee by removing the guilt associated with under-performing.

Employees can help themselves also by limiting their exposure to radio and TV war broadcasts. It is one thing to be updated with news and another to be glued to the media 24/7. Keeping busy and keeping one's mind occupied is something that will benefit both employee and employer, however, if an employee cannot concentrate on work through war anxieties, it is time to consider counseling. They, or their employer, can find out about what counseling services may be available in their area (and some government and voluntary services may be free).

Some departments within an organization may appreciate starting their work day with a prayer, or a discussion of events (to get it out of their system and permit them to then concentrate a little more on their work). Some employees may like to rally round and ensure fellow employees who have partners or family members fighting overseas have plenty of support during and after work hours, by visiting, suggesting outings, etc.

A cheerful environment, a lenient attitude, and a supportive and understanding management will all assist to helping the majority of employees continue to function productively. Ultimately, though, responsibility falls on the individual for their chosen outlook on life and their reaction to events beyond their immediate control. Motivational posters or seminars may assist employees to ask themselves the important questions, like "How do YOU intend to create YOUR life experience?" and "How can you take back control of YOUR life?" Learning how to take responsibility for one's life and one's destiny is most empowering, and when people feel strong and secure and confident, they are better equipped to deal with the ups and downs of life.

And finally, one thing all employees can do for themselves is learn to take extraordinary care of themselves. Companies can and do hire Coaches to teach their employees many things, one of which is striking a healthy life/work balance and incorporating extraordinary self-care techniques into their busy days. Making the most of leisure time, pampering oneself, finding private time for self, etc., all aid to combat stress, and are useful tools at any time, war or no war.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:56 PM | Permalink

1. A coach is a motivator equipped with a whistle and "you can do it" attitude that gets you going.

A coach can't motivate you - only YOU can motivate you. The coach gives you honest feedback, holds the mirror up so you can see YOU, and helps you motivate you. The coach keeps you accountable and moving forward. The inspiration comes from within YOU. Enthusiasm means "God from within." You can motivate and get excited from the inside out. As in the case of hiring a coach to work through a life or career transition. A client said to me, "Wow, I didn't know I had the answers in me; coaching allowed me to tap into my own answers."

2. People can live their lives just fine without a coach, thank you.

Certainly, they can, and they can live them BETTER, BIGGER, EASIER and more JOYFULLY with a coach - aren't you entitled to that? Before one of my clients hired me, she was very successful in her business - she just worked, 50 hours a week on her business, thought about it, felt stress and couldn't completely relax when at home and with her family. Coaching allowed her to find ways to work only 36 hours a week, make more money, feel little stress, and spend more time with her family. She thinks she lives her life much better after coaching.

3. Coaching is a fad and will go away.

The profession has been around for years - it's the number one home based business to start according to Entrepreneur Magazine, and Money Magazine ranks it as the second fastest growing business. It is booming and growing and has sustainable outcomes that stick. Coaching works and is here to stay. When I started coaching, I attracted 15 clients in 30 days... they couldn't wait to get started. I continue to attract individual clients and corporate clients with great ease because of the high demand for coaching.

4. Coaches give you an ego boost - full of phony praise and false inspiration.

Coaches speak the truth, without judgment, an agenda, or attachment to the outcome. Certified Comprehensive coaches adhere to a code of ethics that is all about honesty and integrity, period. As I said to one of my own coaches, "Hearing you tell me how I just sounded felt a bit harsh, and at the same time, I want to say thanks, I needed to hear that."

5. Coaches are a combination of therapist and personal trainer.

They don't engage in any fixing behaviors or looking at past behaviors and the whys of them... so, coaching is NOT therapy... they are like personal trainers for your personal and professional excellence. Clients who have come to me who have had therapy often say coaching is more beneficial than therapy, because it allows them the energy of moving forward and not looking back... it creates momentum, like a magnet, and pulls them to create what they are wanting vs. feeling bad about themselves or past experiences.

6. Friends and family make great coaches - that's what they are for.

Mostly they have their own agendas and want certain outcomes. They may feel they know what is best for you or right for you. They may have a vested interest in a certain outcome or behavior and they may not want to be truthful and hurt your feelings. They aren't trained to be objective. Why not have a best friend AND a coach?

When I was considering leaving my corporate J-O-B and trading a 6 figure income to start a coaching business... boy, did my family and friends have opinions! My husband, loving and supportive, was fearful we'd go broke and kept encouraging me to do it part-time, do it when I retire, etc. Many friends told me I "couldn't" leave my secure job and asked me if I had gone "crazy". They all had some judgments and agendas, yes?

7. Coaches are for those who don't want to pay for therapists.

Therapists are great to fix behaviors and look back at the past. Coaches are for people who are successful and want more success and an even better life.

One of my clients has a therapist and also me as his coach. He tells me the therapy helps him in getting clear on past issues that he wants to understand, and the coaching allows him to forge ahead and have more of what he desires in his life.

8. Coaching is all done by phone.

It can be. Some coaches also work in person. Pick what best supports you. The coach will co-create the relationship and the coaching with you.

Many coaches work with individuals by phone, in person, in groups; some work in businesses in person, by phone, etc.

What is important is getting coached by the coach you match chemistry with and through the way you like to be coached best. Even email coaching can be effective.

9. Coaching is very expensive.

It is an investment in YOU. It pays out so much more than the dollars you may put in. We all spend money on self-help books, tapes, and seminars ... but most of that doesn't stick. Why not invest in something that sticks, instead?

When I first hired a coach I compared it to a personal trainer, a spa visit, a massage, a workshop and realized it was any of all of those - a way to get personal training, treat my body, mind, and spirit, and to learn. I then saw that the check I was writing the coach brought me great value and took care of me in a more comprehensive, holistic way - I felt I was nurturing and caring for ME, and why not?

10. Anyone can call himself or herself a professional coach.

Professional coaches get certified and become Comprehensive Coaches. Check credentials before you hire a coach.

Certified Comprehensive Coaches go through a professional training program and bring their life and work experience to the coaching profession. They take classes in tuning in, powerful questions, powerful observations, powerful requests, building the client, growing the client, achieving client goals, change, and personal and business issues, to name a few topics. It involves years of training along with skills based labs with master instructors providing them honest feedback on their coaching. It is not an easy program. It is a well deserved credential that shows they are extraordinary coaches.

11. Coaches don't fulfill any special qualifications.

Certified Comprehensive Coaches sure do! And they are stringent! In addition to some of the classes above, they have to coach during lab classes - over 40 hours of practice during their training. That is like taking oral exams over and over. They get honest and tough feedback and they are expected to meet the challenge and keep advancing their skills. Not an easy process and according to the Certified Comprehensive Coaches - well worth it to hold the prestigious credential.

12. Anyone can get a certificate as a "coach".

Comprehensive Coach Training is rigorous and becoming certified requires a lot of coaching practice, feedback, oral and written exams and observations. Not many stand up to that.

In addition to the classes and all the practice coaching, there is a full curriculum of skills to study and learn on a cellular basis. Let me tell you, the oral and written exams are tough - they are made to be because only those who are extraordinary can hold this credential.

13. Coaching is a profession that will never take off.

It has - BIG time. It is one of the fastest growing professions in the US. There are over 10,000 coaches right now and more are needed. Coaching has become a household word. Four years ago, when I told people I was a coach, they’d ask "what sport" or "what team"... now they say "I have one" or "my friend has one". Even the comics and television shows have featured this profession. It isn't going away - just gaining in becoming an everyday word.

14. Coach training is not substantial.

Certified Comprehensive Coaching is meaty - class work, practice, feedback, oral and written exams... like graduate school - but even more practical. As one of the Certified Comprehensive Coaches said, "I thought graduate school was where it was at - this was a much better learning experience and has allowed me to work with clients for pay while going through school - that to me, is the best of both worlds".

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:49 PM | Permalink

In every company I have consulted or coached, there exists personnel problems. Natural, you may say, and assume nothing can be done about it. But I have found a pattern behind these personnel issues, and an easy, effortless, and effective way to shift employees who are seen as "problems" to become employees with whom it is a delight to work. It is not necessary to "write off" problem employees when solutions are available that will benefit them personally and the company for whom they work.

The process of taking an employee who challenges the company or leadership of the company, and creating an employee who becomes a dedicated and committed team member, doesn't involve re-training of tasks or job, or threatening the employee, or doing a write-up and counseling session of employee behavior. However, the practice I see most frequently in organizations is to bring the employee in, talk to them about what they are doing wrong and what isn't working, and sometimes, to scare them or threaten them with further action, or instill in them the fear of losing their job. This doesn't achieve anything positive, and in fact, makes matters worse.

What typically happens is the person feels poorly about themselves, the company, their employer or manager, and promptly begins to have more negative feelings about work, and usually, doesn't even want to show up for work. The process results in negative energy and emotions and takes the employee to a low level of morale, performance, and productivity, which in turn, can adversely affect the morale and productivity of everybody who has to work with them.

When I teach organizations to ask new questions of employees and to teach employees a process of asking new questions of themselves, the employees begin to feel more positive energy. They think better of themselves and begin to think better thoughts about the company, their leaders, and co-workers. When the energy shifts and becomes more positive, the employee feels happier and is in a more positive frame of mind to do their work and be a viable team member.

Here are some tips for creating an organizational culture that is more positive and has less employee/personnel problems
Ask the question "What is working?" or "What is going RIGHT?" frequently, and teach employees to use this question as their own self-talk.

Give employees and leaders new questions to ask to get new answers. If we ask ourselves the same questions, we get the same answers. Instead of asking the same questions of employees or of ourselves, we need to broaden the questions to let in more creative ideas and solutions. We want to stop asking what is going wrong and asking other questions that make us feel bad and deplete our energy.

Co-creation. When something is a problem or a challenge, and isn't going quite right yet, we want to speak with employees to co-create new ideas and solutions. We want employees to give input and be part of the process by finding out what ideas, resources, or solutions THEY have to make things more right.

BELIEVE. We have to fully believe employees want and can do a great job. When something isn't going right, we simply have to figure out, along with them, what isn't quite right YET - we fully need to expect it will be - we'll get whatever it is we believe.

ACT as IF. We must act as if the employee IS successful and treat them with respect and dignity and give them our full confidence, even when their performance may be under par. Doing so will enhance their self-esteem, and their belief and trust in us. It's very hard to perform poorly when somebody has such great faith and belief in you and who openly respects and encourages you. It makes you want to try harder and to make the necessary shifts.

Just making these 5 shifts creates employees who have more positive energy and enthusiasm, and changes the culture of a company to that of belief, potential, and a what IS working frame of mind. It is a strategy that costs nothing to implement and the benefits are long lasting and far-reaching. It is simply a matter of building people up instead of knocking them down.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 08:59 PM | Permalink

Managers often find themselves playing the role of middle-man because that is what they are… in the middle. Managers are the go-between for higher management and the workers. You can see how this can present a conflict of interests. How do you represent the views of the upper echelon and protect the interests of those who work under you at the same time? It can be done, of course, and is done every day. It's part and parcel of being a manager and goes with the territory along with a large dose of stress.

The same thin line is being walked between customer and company loyalty. How can a manager look out for the best interests of customers and top management at the same time?

Then there is the fear factor involved in knowing when to act, when to speak up, or the desire to try something new. On the one hand, Managers are encouraged to speak up, and take risks - if the risks will lead to successful outcomes! But if the risk doesn't have a successful outcome, heads will roll, and we don't have to guess whose head will be rolling! Likewise, speaking up is all very well and good, but what if it damages the working relationship?

The problem with walking these fine lines is finding the perfect balance. Finding this balance is just one of the new skills Managers need to learn and master to be effective in their roles.

The key to finding this balance is in learning the art of communication in its truest sense. We can speak the harshest truths without ruffling feathers when we choose our words carefully. We know it is possible to soothe an unhappy customer without running our company down - this is a skill sales people use every day - and we can apply that skill to in-house communications too. Here are a few ways we can do this and walk the thin line without falling off:

We can clear the way for open and honest communication by expressing our desire to communicate openly without intended offense and expressing our objective to find agreement or solutions that will keep everyone happy.

When communicating about matters of conflict, it is important to be able to truly listen to the other point of view without giving up your own. Simple phrases such as "I understand…" and "I can see your point of view and why you'd think that…" can go a long way to diffusing heated arguments. People want their opinions respected and acknowledged, and when they have gotten what they need to say off their chest, and you have listened respectfully, you will find they are better able to listen to you when it is your turn.

Choose your words carefully. Practice speeches and conversations in your head before you have them. The words will flow more easily if you have thought about it beforehand and you are less likely to become emotional or frustrated or offend someone.

When representing either your workforce or your management, be careful just to state the facts without sounding like you are taking sides - or being judgmental! Be an impartial deliverer of information. Do not become emotionally involved in the "message" you are delivering. If it helps, think of yourself as a mediator.

Always show respect, even if the other person does not - whether it is a member of your staff or your senior management. Retain your dignity. Yours is a special position to maintain - in a sense, you work for your own workforce as well as upper management, and you need to remain on good terms with both.
Managers may feel torn from time to time, but with effective communication skills under their belt they will be able to walk the thin line with confidence.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:50 PM | Permalink

In every company I have consulted or coached, there exists personnel problems. Natural, you may say, and assume nothing can be done about it. But I have found a pattern behind these personnel issues, and an easy, effortless, and effective way to shift employees who are seen as "problems" to become employees with whom it is a delight to work. It is not necessary to "write off" problem employees when solutions are available that will benefit them personally and the company for whom they work.

The process of taking an employee who challenges the company or leadership of the company, and creating an employee who becomes a dedicated and committed team member, doesn't involve re-training of tasks or job, or threatening the employee, or doing a write-up and counseling session of employee behavior. However, the practice I see most frequently in organizations is to bring the employee in, talk to them about what they are doing wrong and what isn't working, and sometimes, to scare them or threaten them with further action, or instill in them the fear of losing their job. This doesn't achieve anything positive, and in fact, makes matters worse.

What typically happens is the person feels poorly about themselves, the company, their employer or manager, and promptly begins to have more negative feelings about work, and usually, doesn't even want to show up for work. The process results in negative energy and emotions and takes the employee to a low level of morale, performance, and productivity, which in turn, can adversely affect the morale and productivity of everybody who has to work with them.

When I teach organizations to ask new questions of employees and to teach employees a process of asking new questions of themselves, the employees begin to feel more positive energy. They think better of themselves and begin to think better thoughts about the company, their leaders, and co-workers. When the energy shifts and becomes more positive, the employee feels happier and is in a more positive frame of mind to do their work and be a viable team member.

Here are some tips for creating an organizational culture that is more positive and has less employee/personnel problems:

Ask the question "What is working?" or "What is going RIGHT?" frequently, and teach employees to use this question as their own self-talk.

Give employees and leaders new questions to ask to get new answers. If we ask ourselves the same questions, we get the same answers. Instead of asking the same questions of employees or of ourselves, we need to broaden the questions to let in more creative ideas and solutions. We want to stop asking what is going wrong and asking other questions that make us feel bad and deplete our energy.

Co-creation. When something is a problem or a challenge, and isn't going quite right yet, we want to speak with employees to co-create new ideas and solutions. We want employees to give input and be part of the process by finding out what ideas, resources, or solutions THEY have to make things more right.

BELIEVE. We have to fully believe employees want and can do a great job. When something isn't going right, we simply have to figure out, along with them, what isn't quite right YET - we fully need to expect it will be - we'll get whatever it is we believe.

ACT as IF. We must act as if the employee IS successful and treat them with respect and dignity and give them our full confidence, even when their performance may be under par. Doing so will enhance their self-esteem, and their belief and trust in us. It's very hard to perform poorly when somebody has such great faith and belief in you and who openly respects and encourages you. It makes you want to try harder and to make the necessary shifts.

Just making these 5 shifts creates employees who have more positive energy and enthusiasm, and changes the culture of a company to that of belief, potential, and a what IS working frame of mind. It is a strategy that costs nothing to implement and the benefits are long lasting and far-reaching. It is simply a matter of building people up instead of knocking them down.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:41 PM | Permalink

"Coaching An Organization: Using a Pragmatic/Spiritual Blended Approach" by Terri Levine

Imagine you are attending a corporate training/coaching session and the session begins with a meditation, and centering, and then stating intentions. Sounds odd, yes? Take it further, and imagine the room is full of accountants, or engineers, or physicians, or attorneys. Sounds really strange, right?

This is what is going on in companies all across the United States. An approach blending pragmatic coach training along with tapping into spirituality is being accepted, and in fact, embraced and adapted as a business practice. Company cultures are shifting and changing to accept spirituality in the workplace.

We have finally realized, after years of pretending the personal aspects of who we are don't come to the workplace, that we can't leave ourselves behind. As companies have learned, our lives outside of work come to work with us, because we are comprehensive human beings. When a company acknowledges and honors that the person we are is the person invited and accepted into the workplace, a more productive and happier worker shows up.

The pragmatic/spiritual approach gives employees solid, concrete learning to be better coaches and to use coaching tools to lead people. It also shows employees how to tap into their own intuition and to identify their own beliefs. Often the self-talk or the inner story, which plays over and over again, is what is in the way of the employee being successful and feeling happy at work. This blended approach teaches concepts like:

using the law of attraction - bringing to you what you want, instead of struggling and pushing to get what you want and using a command/control model being a deliberate creator who manifests the things you want without effort allowing feelings to be fully felt and expressed in the workplace

slowing down to stop and breathe

taking time for appreciation

encouraging conversations about what is going right and what is working and celebrating successes

acknowledging each other

bringing beauty into the workplace

checking in to see how ideas and thoughts feel in your body and trusting your gut

using all of your senses

not being attached to outcomes, and trusting more

holding the belief that all is well

allowing things to unfold instead of forcing them to happen

being still and quiet and really listening to yourself and others

To some, it still sounds a bit "out-there" to bring spirit into the workplace, so I encourage companies to start slow with some pragmatic, traditional coaching and then introduce some less traditional concepts.

It becomes apparent that they go together. You don't just put them both in the blender and mix them up and hope for the best. The system of blended coaching produces a wonderful "smoothie" that tastes great and people crave.

Companies that are already using these techniques are reaping the benefits of a happier, more productive workforce. Skeptical managements no longer care how it works, they only care that it works, and that, for them, is the bottom line.

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:40 PM | Permalink

How many times over the course of a 2-3 year period, does a company spend time, energy, and resources creating or re-creating a vision or mission? Most companies do this activity over and over again because the CEO can’t move the organization to get behind the vision. The employees don’t have a desire to achieve the vision, and it is meaningless to them.

The VM Vacuum process (Vision-Mission Vacuum) that has been brought into organizations is making a dramatic difference. It works like a vacuum, where it sweeps the entire organization and attracts energy to itself. The process produces employees who are committed to the CEO’s vision and instills passion and the desire to achieve the vision and mission of the company.

The VM Vacuum process works because all the employees are involved in co-creating the vision and are all a key and equal part of the visioning process. When a vision is co-created in this way, it becomes co-shared and people believe in it… it contains a part of them, so naturally, it becomes believable, realistic and do-able.

Here is the structure of the process:

Every employee, regardless of job type, hours worked, or job title, is invited to participate in a visioning meeting with key managers.
Key managers act as facilitators with no vision/mission to sell anyone, but simply to gather people and listen to their thoughts.

Facilitated discussions are held to invite every employee to respond to questions about what currently is going well or right in the company, why those things are working, and then daydream a description of how things could be perfect. Once there is a clear idea of “perfect”, the facilitator asks the group to pretend it is five years from now, three years from now, and one year from now, and to describe a perfect work day in each year – complete with how it feels, sounds, looks, tastes, smells, etc. Then the group identifies the things right now that aren’t quite right yet within the organization and identifies resources (like time, money, training, space, etc) that could make things more right.

All facilitated discussions result in a detailed summary of the conversations above.

Key managers bring their facilitated discussion results to the CEO, and the CEO, with no vision/mission to sell, facilitates the exact same process with the managers as was conducted with the employees.

All facilitated discussions, including the ones with the managers, are now transcribed and put into one working document.

Groups of employees and managers take the document and find areas of similarity and create one large document.

That document becomes the vision/mission of the organization.
Organizations that follow these steps and do each thoroughly, believing each employee has value to contribute to this process, now have a vision/mission that the employees helped to formulate, and therefore feel a part of. When employees feel their viewpoints were both heard and considered and that these are now a piece of the company, their morale goes up, they become more productive, and they tend to stay much longer in their employment. What they do, how they do it, and why they do it is now meaningful for them. After all, they helped develop the what, how, and why. It gives them pride and a true sense of belonging and value within the organization.

Considering the benefits to everyone, isn’t this process one that is worth the time?

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!

Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:39 PM | Permalink

Terri Levine is a successful business coach and was a speaker at Joe Vitale's Spiritual Marketing Super Summit.

Terri Levine, MCC, PCC, MS, CCC-SLP, made the transition from senior executive to become one of the top professional coaches in the industry, founded a leading coach training school, and has worked with clients from every walk of life.

Terri is the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Coaching U, Inc., and The Coaching Institute - The Professional’s Coach Training Program. The Coaching Institute is an internationally recognized program that provides training to individuals and organizations that want to learn coaching skills and/or become Certified Comprehensive Coaches.

Terri’s coaching clients call her the “wisdom wizard”. Her background as a corporate executive paired with her marketing expertise is extraordinary. She has compiled an impressive track record of growing million dollar businesses.

She specializes in using Comprehensive Coaching principles to create extraordinary growth for her clients’ lives and businesses, and has been coaching professionals and companies, and training others to use coaching skills every day to experience much greater business, financial and personal success, discovering better ways to grow profitable businesses, restore balance in life, and bring greater joy to each day. She synthesizes the knowledge and wisdom of every leading organizational development guru, philosophy and process to create a results-oriented approach.

Terri, a popular keynote and motivational speaker, is also a successful author. Her much acclaimed book, “Work Yourself Happy,” (which hit #3 on the Amazon best-seller list early in 2002) is an example of her own coaching work and her clients’ success stories.

Her second book, “Coaching for an Extraordinary Life,” published in 2001, brings the tools of the coaching industry to ordinary people, so that all may enjoy a better quality life.

In her third book, “Create Your Ideal Body”, Terri shares her strategies and techniques which enabled 250 people to lose weight without dieting, struggle, deprivation or the use of gizmos, gadgets, pills, potions or rigid exercise routines.

Her last book, “Stop Managing, Start Coaching!” reached #6 on Amazon and deals with morale in the workplace. She also puts out weekly e-mail newsletters to thousands of subscribers worldwide. Terri is a nationally recognized authority on creating greater business and personal success and she is featured regularly in the media and on Channel 10 NBC Philadelphia News as a coaching expert.

Terri lives in Pennsylvania, and when she isn’t coaching, training, speaking, or writing, she loves to race Formula Dodge cars!
 
Terri is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Philadelphia Area Coaches Alliance, The American Society of Training and Development, and the National Women Business Owners.

If you are interested in becoming a coach, hiring a coach, or having Terri address your organization, call toll-free 1-877-401-6165 or email info@ComprehensiveCoachingU.com.
Visit her on the website: http://www.TerriLevine.com

Posted by ralph at 07:36 PM | Permalink