How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Since December of 2008, I have been trying to think of at least one positive thought each day. For quite a long while, I was also able to write this email each day and send it out. These past 12 months has been a battle for my time. In many ways I have enjoyed this battle. Time for my wife, time for my grandchildren, time for my parents, oh, and lest I forget where I have spent most of my time, work. Sadly, I have not been able to spend much time with friends, but I am happy with the choices I have made.
You see, the choice I have made each day is to come to work and give it everything I have. My ideas, my salesmanship, my heart, and my leadership. I have always believed that if I could turn this company back around, in the long run, this business that I have taken care of for many years, will in time be able to take care of me and my family, and the families of those that work here. Looking back now, I believe that we have turned the corner, and have stopped the downward spiral that many of us small businesses were in. It’s going to be a long road to recovery, but I believe that now is the fun part. We have been there before, we know how to do it, we are not afraid of what’s to come, and we will do it again.
The question that I ask myself, and you is “Will you join me in this journey?”.
May 31, 2010
May 05, 2010
We All Have Survived...Now On to the Recovery!
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
1. My niece was released home today. She is doing great, but still has a long road to recovery, please continue to keep her in your prayers.
2. We are getting quite a few builders calling us with jobs, some are even Spec homes. The recovery has definitely begun!
3. To sum up a common phrase that I am hearing from customers is “I’ve made it through the recession, I have been waiting to improve my home, especially if I am not going to sell it”.
4. We are getting approvals much faster after we provide the designs. The delay is not there as much.
5. We have even gotten approvals from designs we did six to months ago.
All in all, we have survived. We are still standing, and that was the goal. Now, it is time to attack the market and be there for those who want to buy. It is still, up to us to decide each day, what do we want to achieve!
1. My niece was released home today. She is doing great, but still has a long road to recovery, please continue to keep her in your prayers.
2. We are getting quite a few builders calling us with jobs, some are even Spec homes. The recovery has definitely begun!
3. To sum up a common phrase that I am hearing from customers is “I’ve made it through the recession, I have been waiting to improve my home, especially if I am not going to sell it”.
4. We are getting approvals much faster after we provide the designs. The delay is not there as much.
5. We have even gotten approvals from designs we did six to months ago.
All in all, we have survived. We are still standing, and that was the goal. Now, it is time to attack the market and be there for those who want to buy. It is still, up to us to decide each day, what do we want to achieve!
April 30, 2010
Hiring???
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I know, I know, it’s been a while since I’ve sent out a message. This in itself actually is positive. We have been very busy, with phone calls looking for appointments, and then with approvals looking for installation dates. So much so, that one of our Installation Technicians asked our Scheduler/Bookkeeper, “Hey, when are we going to hire another installer?”
I know, I know, it’s been a while since I’ve sent out a message. This in itself actually is positive. We have been very busy, with phone calls looking for appointments, and then with approvals looking for installation dates. So much so, that one of our Installation Technicians asked our Scheduler/Bookkeeper, “Hey, when are we going to hire another installer?”
April 14, 2010
Pent Up Demand!
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I was talking with my computer IT guy, and he says that business is picking up. I asked him from who, and why did he think it was? He replied that he believes that most small businesses have been holding off on technology and that they feel things are stable now. So, again I see pent up demand, and recovery, albeit a slow one. I must still budget on a much smaller scale.
I was talking with my computer IT guy, and he says that business is picking up. I asked him from who, and why did he think it was? He replied that he believes that most small businesses have been holding off on technology and that they feel things are stable now. So, again I see pent up demand, and recovery, albeit a slow one. I must still budget on a much smaller scale.
April 13, 2010
A Faster Sales Cycle
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
At our peak in 2007 and part of 2008, our Sales Cycle was 6 weeks. This cycle is from the time we get the lead, until we are paid. Our clients were approving their design in days, sometimes weeks. In late 2008 this started to shift and by mid 2009, our Sales Cycle had become 9 months. This was due to people delaying the decision to buy, builders not putting in closets until the house was sold, or those that did buy took a month or more to finalize the designs. I am happy to see this Sales Cycle dropping to 2 months now. We are finding that when people are calling, they are ready to buy and only take a week or two to finalize the designs. This is a good sign, and I believe it will continue, unless something scares us, like a terrorist attack, a shortage of …
I am looking forward to the rest of 2010, and believe that there is pent up demand. It is now up to us to work hard to tell our story and gain market share.
At our peak in 2007 and part of 2008, our Sales Cycle was 6 weeks. This cycle is from the time we get the lead, until we are paid. Our clients were approving their design in days, sometimes weeks. In late 2008 this started to shift and by mid 2009, our Sales Cycle had become 9 months. This was due to people delaying the decision to buy, builders not putting in closets until the house was sold, or those that did buy took a month or more to finalize the designs. I am happy to see this Sales Cycle dropping to 2 months now. We are finding that when people are calling, they are ready to buy and only take a week or two to finalize the designs. This is a good sign, and I believe it will continue, unless something scares us, like a terrorist attack, a shortage of …
I am looking forward to the rest of 2010, and believe that there is pent up demand. It is now up to us to work hard to tell our story and gain market share.
April 09, 2010
Good Decisions?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Writing these emails with a Positive angle had another positive…One of the product lines we have offered from day one are closet systems. A little over 5 years ago, a trade publication started serving our industry called CLOSETS Magazine. In February of 2008 they did a story on us about How to work with Builders. Yesterday, the Managing Editor came out to our showroom because she read through these emails that we now have a new 8,300 sf showroom. It is an honor to be featured, but it is also confirmation that some of the decisions we have made over the years have been good decisions.
In these tough times, the decisions we make will be felt faster and harder, whether they be good decisions are bad decisions. We all need feedback from those we work with whether we are on the right path, or if we need to change course. The magazine is just one indicator, but we will see if we get any feedback that will help us make good decisions in the future.
Writing these emails with a Positive angle had another positive…One of the product lines we have offered from day one are closet systems. A little over 5 years ago, a trade publication started serving our industry called CLOSETS Magazine. In February of 2008 they did a story on us about How to work with Builders. Yesterday, the Managing Editor came out to our showroom because she read through these emails that we now have a new 8,300 sf showroom. It is an honor to be featured, but it is also confirmation that some of the decisions we have made over the years have been good decisions.
In these tough times, the decisions we make will be felt faster and harder, whether they be good decisions are bad decisions. We all need feedback from those we work with whether we are on the right path, or if we need to change course. The magazine is just one indicator, but we will see if we get any feedback that will help us make good decisions in the future.
April 06, 2010
Family Fun
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
My family started a new “tradition” about a year ago, “Challenges”. Well really it is my mother who started these Challenges. We’ve had a Cookie Cook Off, then we had a Pasta Challenge, and this past Easter, while many of you had a fancy Easter meal, with ham and sweet potatoes, the Coleman Family had a Sandwich Challenge.
My goal was to get more votes than my mother, and I am happy to say that I beat her, came in 3rd place with my niece Sadie. The winning sandwich that won was my sister and her kids, an Ice Cream Sandwich. We all ran around the kitchen making our sandwiches, then we all ate the various entries, and then voted. The top three finishers were awarded a bowling trophy that my Mom bought at a garage sale. Fun was had by all.
I guess the positive message here is what can we all do to create an opportunity of sharing fun moments, whether they be at home with family, or at work? I know of another family who once a month they have Backwards Day. They eat a dinner for breakfast and a breakfast for dinner. What can you do?
My family started a new “tradition” about a year ago, “Challenges”. Well really it is my mother who started these Challenges. We’ve had a Cookie Cook Off, then we had a Pasta Challenge, and this past Easter, while many of you had a fancy Easter meal, with ham and sweet potatoes, the Coleman Family had a Sandwich Challenge.
My goal was to get more votes than my mother, and I am happy to say that I beat her, came in 3rd place with my niece Sadie. The winning sandwich that won was my sister and her kids, an Ice Cream Sandwich. We all ran around the kitchen making our sandwiches, then we all ate the various entries, and then voted. The top three finishers were awarded a bowling trophy that my Mom bought at a garage sale. Fun was had by all.
I guess the positive message here is what can we all do to create an opportunity of sharing fun moments, whether they be at home with family, or at work? I know of another family who once a month they have Backwards Day. They eat a dinner for breakfast and a breakfast for dinner. What can you do?
April 05, 2010
Liking My Family
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Being able to spend time with family and friends. Oh, and the fact that I like them. Not everyone is so lucky.
Being able to spend time with family and friends. Oh, and the fact that I like them. Not everyone is so lucky.
April 03, 2010
Confirmation
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Today is very simple, we had a past client come in today to pick something up, and they said it not once, but twice, that they were very happy with our service. It is nice to know that how you decide to “do business” is appreciated. Hoppy Easter!
Today is very simple, we had a past client come in today to pick something up, and they said it not once, but twice, that they were very happy with our service. It is nice to know that how you decide to “do business” is appreciated. Hoppy Easter!
March 30, 2010
Good News from Different Angles
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
My niece is doing better than expected, and is being released from the hospital tomorrow. She will be transferred to Marion Joy for physical therapy, and right now all things look good. All of your thoughts and well wishes are very much appreciated and I have shared them all with them.
What else can be “Positive” you ask? The financial markers continue to rise, there are concerns about inflation, the weather is breaking, the phones are ringing more, and people are buying. However, the buying is more educated, more conservative, smarter. This is now the time that I will have to shape our message to convey that working with our company is the “smart choice”.
Oh, one last good news to share. We just got a job that last Thursday we had lost to California Closets. We went back and spent another hour and half to educate the customer about why buying form us was a better solution to their problem. It was a good feeling!
My niece is doing better than expected, and is being released from the hospital tomorrow. She will be transferred to Marion Joy for physical therapy, and right now all things look good. All of your thoughts and well wishes are very much appreciated and I have shared them all with them.
What else can be “Positive” you ask? The financial markers continue to rise, there are concerns about inflation, the weather is breaking, the phones are ringing more, and people are buying. However, the buying is more educated, more conservative, smarter. This is now the time that I will have to shape our message to convey that working with our company is the “smart choice”.
Oh, one last good news to share. We just got a job that last Thursday we had lost to California Closets. We went back and spent another hour and half to educate the customer about why buying form us was a better solution to their problem. It was a good feeling!
March 24, 2010
Define Positive
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
When I started this email to my wife in December of 2008, I knew that I needed to be focused on the positive things in my life, and my world. Many things have occurred since that time. I could talk about the DOW being on an 18 month high, or that our phones are ringing more, but I am not.
Last week I wrote about my niece having to have emergency brain surgery. There was a real concern as to whether she would even make through the surgery, then the concern was will she make it through the next 24 hours. I know and realize that we all are living our lives each day, but the outpouring I have seen of support is truly mind blowing. Hundreds of people from not just our small community, but from all over the world have expressed concern, interest, prayers, visitation, meals, gifts, posters, cards, flowers, text messages, emails… I have, like you, I am sure, have read about or heard about this type of support, but to experience it, and watch it unfold is really what is positive about all of us. We, as people truly care. When times are tough, we as a people band together to help each other. There is no formal process to do this, it just happens.
The update on Kenzie Rae Curran is as follows:
Monday the nurse asked her to hold up two fingers, which she did. Then the nurse asked her to see if she could put a glove on all 5 fingers, which she did.
Tuesday the speech therapist tried to get her to swallow, and Kenzie took the spoon away from her, and did it herself. She then wanted to stand up, and the nurses did not if they should let her, so her father leaned in and said “give me a hug”, which she did! She is making great progress and is ahead of schedule. She should be moved later this week out of ICU. Keep her in your prayers, and in your heart, and thank you to all of you for reaching out and letting us know that you care.
When I started this email to my wife in December of 2008, I knew that I needed to be focused on the positive things in my life, and my world. Many things have occurred since that time. I could talk about the DOW being on an 18 month high, or that our phones are ringing more, but I am not.
Last week I wrote about my niece having to have emergency brain surgery. There was a real concern as to whether she would even make through the surgery, then the concern was will she make it through the next 24 hours. I know and realize that we all are living our lives each day, but the outpouring I have seen of support is truly mind blowing. Hundreds of people from not just our small community, but from all over the world have expressed concern, interest, prayers, visitation, meals, gifts, posters, cards, flowers, text messages, emails… I have, like you, I am sure, have read about or heard about this type of support, but to experience it, and watch it unfold is really what is positive about all of us. We, as people truly care. When times are tough, we as a people band together to help each other. There is no formal process to do this, it just happens.
The update on Kenzie Rae Curran is as follows:
Monday the nurse asked her to hold up two fingers, which she did. Then the nurse asked her to see if she could put a glove on all 5 fingers, which she did.
Tuesday the speech therapist tried to get her to swallow, and Kenzie took the spoon away from her, and did it herself. She then wanted to stand up, and the nurses did not if they should let her, so her father leaned in and said “give me a hug”, which she did! She is making great progress and is ahead of schedule. She should be moved later this week out of ICU. Keep her in your prayers, and in your heart, and thank you to all of you for reaching out and letting us know that you care.
March 19, 2010
Minute by Minute
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
When this recession began, and we were in the middle of it, I kept saying we have to get through each day, then each week, then the month, and then the year. That has new meaning for me now. My niece had a seizure, and was rushed to the hospital for a 6 hour emergency brain surgery. The doctors told us that the first step was to just make it through the surgery. After the surgery, they said she needs to make it through the next 6 hours, after that it was the next 24 hours. Now they are talking about the next 3 days. She has to fight to stay alive every minute, then every hour, then each day. So, too must we fight each minute of each day for what we want and value. For her, it’s her life, what is it for each of us? What do we value? I say to fight for it like your life depends on it, because it just may.
When this recession began, and we were in the middle of it, I kept saying we have to get through each day, then each week, then the month, and then the year. That has new meaning for me now. My niece had a seizure, and was rushed to the hospital for a 6 hour emergency brain surgery. The doctors told us that the first step was to just make it through the surgery. After the surgery, they said she needs to make it through the next 6 hours, after that it was the next 24 hours. Now they are talking about the next 3 days. She has to fight to stay alive every minute, then every hour, then each day. So, too must we fight each minute of each day for what we want and value. For her, it’s her life, what is it for each of us? What do we value? I say to fight for it like your life depends on it, because it just may.
March 11, 2010
Diversification is Working
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
It seems that the phone is continuing to ring, so maybe this is the beginning of a slow recovery. We have had a fair number of calls from people who are remodeling their Master Bedroom Suite, including the bath and closet, along with Basement remodels. Also, we have sold 3 SunSetter Awnings already this year, and just received our first Hunter Douglas order. Helping people solve many problems around their home looks like it may have been the key for us to survive these last 2 years. Diversification….now what else is on the horizon?
It seems that the phone is continuing to ring, so maybe this is the beginning of a slow recovery. We have had a fair number of calls from people who are remodeling their Master Bedroom Suite, including the bath and closet, along with Basement remodels. Also, we have sold 3 SunSetter Awnings already this year, and just received our first Hunter Douglas order. Helping people solve many problems around their home looks like it may have been the key for us to survive these last 2 years. Diversification….now what else is on the horizon?
March 10, 2010
One Year Ago
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Wow, have I been busy. About 3 weeks ago the phones and walk-in’s really started to pick up. It seems that people are now coming out of hibernation and are engaging in purchases. Yesterday I had 5 appointments, now we all must work hard to turn the proposals around within 24 hours to capitalize on peoples desires. While spending so much time in the car yesterday a story came on about our financial markets. One year ago the DOW closed at 6,500, and yesterday it closed at 10,500. Quite a change one year makes. Now, I’m not saying that everything is now perfect, but these are all steps in the right direction. All of us must work our way, day by day through this. For together we will survive.
Wow, have I been busy. About 3 weeks ago the phones and walk-in’s really started to pick up. It seems that people are now coming out of hibernation and are engaging in purchases. Yesterday I had 5 appointments, now we all must work hard to turn the proposals around within 24 hours to capitalize on peoples desires. While spending so much time in the car yesterday a story came on about our financial markets. One year ago the DOW closed at 6,500, and yesterday it closed at 10,500. Quite a change one year makes. Now, I’m not saying that everything is now perfect, but these are all steps in the right direction. All of us must work our way, day by day through this. For together we will survive.
March 05, 2010
New Beginings
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
CUBS Win! The beginning of baseball, the beginning of spring, the beginning of nice weather, provides an opportunity for a new beginning in my life and in my company.
CUBS Win! The beginning of baseball, the beginning of spring, the beginning of nice weather, provides an opportunity for a new beginning in my life and in my company.
March 04, 2010
Life is Simple, Really
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Just met with a supplier this afternoon, and she simply stated “Two days of great weather changes people’s attitudes, TREMNDOUSLY.” It struck me how simple we really are. Life is not complicated, but we make it that way. Today, I will relax and keep things simple.
Just met with a supplier this afternoon, and she simply stated “Two days of great weather changes people’s attitudes, TREMNDOUSLY.” It struck me how simple we really are. Life is not complicated, but we make it that way. Today, I will relax and keep things simple.
March 03, 2010
Small Areas are Improving
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I like it, and it’s interesting. Since writing these emails, and increasing who wants to receive them, it seems everyday I get at least one response to what I’ve written. Yesterday, after the email about the builder, I heard that a home inspector has had four inspections scheduled in the last 10 days. He felt that it seemed to be picking up ever so slowly. Depending on whether you see the glass as half full or not, only two of the four homes were short sales. The other two were “normal” transactions. In small pockets of our small area we are seeing improvement. It all starts with baby steps.
I like it, and it’s interesting. Since writing these emails, and increasing who wants to receive them, it seems everyday I get at least one response to what I’ve written. Yesterday, after the email about the builder, I heard that a home inspector has had four inspections scheduled in the last 10 days. He felt that it seemed to be picking up ever so slowly. Depending on whether you see the glass as half full or not, only two of the four homes were short sales. The other two were “normal” transactions. In small pockets of our small area we are seeing improvement. It all starts with baby steps.
March 02, 2010
Success is Possible
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I met with a builder yesterday who had two houses he was building, and while talking with him he said that he had four more he was building. His comments gave me hope that things are picking up, slowly, but they are moving in the right direction. By now, most of us small businesses that are still in business have made the necessary changes to stay in business. Now, we all need to do what we can, when we can to take advantage of every situation, no matter how small. It is in these small opportunities that survival will continue. Once we feel safe with our survival, we can focus on the goal of profitability and success once again. This conversation, gave me the feeling that success is possible once again!
I met with a builder yesterday who had two houses he was building, and while talking with him he said that he had four more he was building. His comments gave me hope that things are picking up, slowly, but they are moving in the right direction. By now, most of us small businesses that are still in business have made the necessary changes to stay in business. Now, we all need to do what we can, when we can to take advantage of every situation, no matter how small. It is in these small opportunities that survival will continue. Once we feel safe with our survival, we can focus on the goal of profitability and success once again. This conversation, gave me the feeling that success is possible once again!
March 01, 2010
Comments Mean Something
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
It doesn’t take much to give me hope, to make me believe, to keep me focused. It could be as simple as a comment my wife or a friend makes, a customer telling me they are really happy with the work we did for them. A statement that one of our leaders says “while on the record”. It could be as simple as the phone rang, and someone wants what we sell! Today, I will make my comments with this simple thought in mind.
It doesn’t take much to give me hope, to make me believe, to keep me focused. It could be as simple as a comment my wife or a friend makes, a customer telling me they are really happy with the work we did for them. A statement that one of our leaders says “while on the record”. It could be as simple as the phone rang, and someone wants what we sell! Today, I will make my comments with this simple thought in mind.
February 25, 2010
Look for the Window
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
The other day I had the permanent retainer that has been glued in my mouth since I got my braces off 6 years ago, unglue, while I was in a meeting. I’ve always had a problem with this in my mouth, no matter how much they told me that I would get used to it. So, I get an emergency appointment to go in, and the Dr. looks at it, and says that he’ll remove it and give me a mouth guard as my retainer. Yeah!
As I thought about this small situation, I began to think that sometimes what at first appears to be bad, turns out to be good. That is how I am now feeling about this recession that we all have been in. At first, I did not like it, I even refused to participate in it, by not doing the things necessary to maintain a profitable business. Now that time has passed, I believe that my company is becoming better. Another old saying, “When God closes a door, He provides a window”. My job is to look for the window.
The other day I had the permanent retainer that has been glued in my mouth since I got my braces off 6 years ago, unglue, while I was in a meeting. I’ve always had a problem with this in my mouth, no matter how much they told me that I would get used to it. So, I get an emergency appointment to go in, and the Dr. looks at it, and says that he’ll remove it and give me a mouth guard as my retainer. Yeah!
As I thought about this small situation, I began to think that sometimes what at first appears to be bad, turns out to be good. That is how I am now feeling about this recession that we all have been in. At first, I did not like it, I even refused to participate in it, by not doing the things necessary to maintain a profitable business. Now that time has passed, I believe that my company is becoming better. Another old saying, “When God closes a door, He provides a window”. My job is to look for the window.
February 22, 2010
What is it about the Olympics?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
What is it about the Olympics? Whether you prefer the Summer or the Winter Olympics, there is something that happens when they are going on. It’s always a front page story, we talk about it at work, with our friends, and our family. Heck, some of the athletes even appear on The Oprah Show. What is it that captivates us? Is it that we can see sports that are popular not here in the US, but throughout the world? Is it national pride, rooting for our country? I’m not sure, but for me it is to watch someone, any one of the athletes, dedicate themselves for a period of four years. To train, to practice, and to workout for the singular goal of competing during these 2 weeks. As I think about not just what they are doing to compete, I am also drawn to think about what they are not doing. In many cases, they are not doing what many others their age are doing. Whether it is “going out”, partying, boyfriends or girlfriends, having family close to them, sitting around watching TV shows, eating fast food and ice cream, staying up late… They have an unrelenting determination and dedication. I can learn from them these traits.
What is it about the Olympics? Whether you prefer the Summer or the Winter Olympics, there is something that happens when they are going on. It’s always a front page story, we talk about it at work, with our friends, and our family. Heck, some of the athletes even appear on The Oprah Show. What is it that captivates us? Is it that we can see sports that are popular not here in the US, but throughout the world? Is it national pride, rooting for our country? I’m not sure, but for me it is to watch someone, any one of the athletes, dedicate themselves for a period of four years. To train, to practice, and to workout for the singular goal of competing during these 2 weeks. As I think about not just what they are doing to compete, I am also drawn to think about what they are not doing. In many cases, they are not doing what many others their age are doing. Whether it is “going out”, partying, boyfriends or girlfriends, having family close to them, sitting around watching TV shows, eating fast food and ice cream, staying up late… They have an unrelenting determination and dedication. I can learn from them these traits.
February 18, 2010
Erma Bombeck?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
The purpose of me writing something positive each day is more for me, than it is for you. With that in mind, sometimes something happens that makes me smile, it could be a friend or family member doing or saying something special. However, in this case it is a customer. When I talked to her after we worked on her house, she said that she was extremely happy with what we did for her. As is often case when we leave a home. My typical response is, “One way you could help us, is to spread the word to your friends and family. You can also write us a letter of recommendation. Now, I knew that she did some writing, and had created a few cards that she sells on the internet, but I did not expect what follows below, what appears to be a newspaper article. It shows me that in these challenging times we live in at the moment, one person can change not just my perspective, but her email changed all of our employees perspective and made us all laugh. A job well done to www.meanmaryjean.com
Please be sure to read her testimonial, you too will smile and laugh out loud. She reminds me of Erma Bombeck!
The purpose of me writing something positive each day is more for me, than it is for you. With that in mind, sometimes something happens that makes me smile, it could be a friend or family member doing or saying something special. However, in this case it is a customer. When I talked to her after we worked on her house, she said that she was extremely happy with what we did for her. As is often case when we leave a home. My typical response is, “One way you could help us, is to spread the word to your friends and family. You can also write us a letter of recommendation. Now, I knew that she did some writing, and had created a few cards that she sells on the internet, but I did not expect what follows below, what appears to be a newspaper article. It shows me that in these challenging times we live in at the moment, one person can change not just my perspective, but her email changed all of our employees perspective and made us all laugh. A job well done to www.meanmaryjean.com
Please be sure to read her testimonial, you too will smile and laugh out loud. She reminds me of Erma Bombeck!
Old Sayings Still Hold True
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Wow! It’s already Thursday. The old saying that “Time flies when you are having fun” is also true when you are busy. In these last two weeks, we have gotten very busy. The phones are ringing, we are out on appointments, we are preparing proposals, making sales, buying material, and then doing the installation. If this keeps up for a few more weeks, months, the rest of the year, that would be nice.
The reason for being busy? Meeting with the people, I think it is simple. People have been waiting for the economy to get better, just a little, or at least stabilize, which it has. Now, there is pent up desire, and they want to do things that they have been waiting on. Another old saying, “Hard work puts you in a position for luck”. I’m recharged, and will continue to work hard, and maybe some luck will happen along the way
Wow! It’s already Thursday. The old saying that “Time flies when you are having fun” is also true when you are busy. In these last two weeks, we have gotten very busy. The phones are ringing, we are out on appointments, we are preparing proposals, making sales, buying material, and then doing the installation. If this keeps up for a few more weeks, months, the rest of the year, that would be nice.
The reason for being busy? Meeting with the people, I think it is simple. People have been waiting for the economy to get better, just a little, or at least stabilize, which it has. Now, there is pent up desire, and they want to do things that they have been waiting on. Another old saying, “Hard work puts you in a position for luck”. I’m recharged, and will continue to work hard, and maybe some luck will happen along the way
February 15, 2010
Celebration...
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
To get the best out of each of us, we need to celebrate. We celebrate Valentine’s Day, we celebrate birthday’s and anniversaries, we celebrate sales or profits at work. When a child does something we like we praise them, when we want a dog to sit or roll over, we offer a treat and rub their belly. We are wired to celebrate, we need affirmation. Today, I must begin to tell the people I work with how good they are, how important they are to me and to my company.
Now, how can I develop a culture of celebration?
To get the best out of each of us, we need to celebrate. We celebrate Valentine’s Day, we celebrate birthday’s and anniversaries, we celebrate sales or profits at work. When a child does something we like we praise them, when we want a dog to sit or roll over, we offer a treat and rub their belly. We are wired to celebrate, we need affirmation. Today, I must begin to tell the people I work with how good they are, how important they are to me and to my company.
Now, how can I develop a culture of celebration?
February 12, 2010
Does This Stuff Make Money?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Having to find something positive to write about everyday changes how I view each moment of the day. Often it forces me to look for the good, in a sea of not so good news. So, when something happens that is positive without much effort on my part, it makes it so much the better.
Last night I attended a home builder meeting about Social Media/Networking. Although I have heard about it, I have even done some of it, we have a website, and this email becomes a blog. I’ve always wondered whether the amount of time and money invested will bring in sales and profits. Last night there were several examples that it does generate sales and profits. Although thinking about the “extra” work is intimidating, I am excited by the possibilities to immerse myself and our company into World Wide Web.
Having to find something positive to write about everyday changes how I view each moment of the day. Often it forces me to look for the good, in a sea of not so good news. So, when something happens that is positive without much effort on my part, it makes it so much the better.
Last night I attended a home builder meeting about Social Media/Networking. Although I have heard about it, I have even done some of it, we have a website, and this email becomes a blog. I’ve always wondered whether the amount of time and money invested will bring in sales and profits. Last night there were several examples that it does generate sales and profits. Although thinking about the “extra” work is intimidating, I am excited by the possibilities to immerse myself and our company into World Wide Web.
February 11, 2010
Listening is an Effort
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Destiny, Coincidence, Karma, whatever you call it, I hear you God. In the last two days I have had 4 events all unrelated in themselves, merge together into being hit on the head by God. Sometimes I find that I don’t always see things as good unless it is also very obvious. I will make an effort to look for and notice the little things in life!
Destiny, Coincidence, Karma, whatever you call it, I hear you God. In the last two days I have had 4 events all unrelated in themselves, merge together into being hit on the head by God. Sometimes I find that I don’t always see things as good unless it is also very obvious. I will make an effort to look for and notice the little things in life!
February 10, 2010
Earthquake Sale?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I had a great dream last night that my wife rocked my world. I woke up at 4:00 am to find that it was true!
For business, I am now thinking of offering an Earthquake Sale. Any ideas out there?
I had a great dream last night that my wife rocked my world. I woke up at 4:00 am to find that it was true!
For business, I am now thinking of offering an Earthquake Sale. Any ideas out there?
February 09, 2010
Is This The Begining of a Trend?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Meeting a builder today who has 3 houses he is building to review the blueprints. In the last two weeks that makes 2 builders, in 2 different markets looking like they are beginning to get some work. Let’s watch this to see if there is a trend.
Meeting a builder today who has 3 houses he is building to review the blueprints. In the last two weeks that makes 2 builders, in 2 different markets looking like they are beginning to get some work. Let’s watch this to see if there is a trend.
February 08, 2010
I Can Be a Super Bowl Winner Too!
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Did the better team win the Super Bowl yesterday? On paper the Colts were better. The odds makers all picked the Colts to win. The radio talking heads all thought the Colts would win. Who won? Not the Colts. Why? New Orleans wanted it more, and believed it more than the Colts. Winning isn’t always about being better, wanting to be better comes first. The desire I see in the people I work with to be better people, better employees, to better serve our customers, is what will precede us in winning. Will you join me in the desire to become better at what we do and who we want to be?
Did the better team win the Super Bowl yesterday? On paper the Colts were better. The odds makers all picked the Colts to win. The radio talking heads all thought the Colts would win. Who won? Not the Colts. Why? New Orleans wanted it more, and believed it more than the Colts. Winning isn’t always about being better, wanting to be better comes first. The desire I see in the people I work with to be better people, better employees, to better serve our customers, is what will precede us in winning. Will you join me in the desire to become better at what we do and who we want to be?
February 04, 2010
One Vote
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
One vote really does count, and our free election process works. The Republican race for the nomination of Governor of our state right now comes down to 406 votes. Just like the Senators race for Minnesota last year, that eventually ended up at the Supreme Court, our one vote counts. In Kane County only 15% of the registered voters came out to polls. Sad really when you consider that the highest office in our state came down to 406 votes. What would have happened if 20% voted? What about 50%?
The question I ask myself today is what will I do to share my thoughts and opinions about my work? What influence will I have in the outcome of my own actions?
One vote really does count, and our free election process works. The Republican race for the nomination of Governor of our state right now comes down to 406 votes. Just like the Senators race for Minnesota last year, that eventually ended up at the Supreme Court, our one vote counts. In Kane County only 15% of the registered voters came out to polls. Sad really when you consider that the highest office in our state came down to 406 votes. What would have happened if 20% voted? What about 50%?
The question I ask myself today is what will I do to share my thoughts and opinions about my work? What influence will I have in the outcome of my own actions?
February 03, 2010
Where's The Window?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
The older I get the more I realize that those that have lived before me really do know what they are talking about. The old phrases that we all have heard, are really true. The phrase that comes to mind today is, “When a door closes, God opens a window”. This recession has caused all of us to change how we do business, and what is now considered normal. My job is to look for the window that is now open. Sometimes it is easy to find, sometimes difficult, and sometimes I need help seeing the window. I’m enjoying the search.
The older I get the more I realize that those that have lived before me really do know what they are talking about. The old phrases that we all have heard, are really true. The phrase that comes to mind today is, “When a door closes, God opens a window”. This recession has caused all of us to change how we do business, and what is now considered normal. My job is to look for the window that is now open. Sometimes it is easy to find, sometimes difficult, and sometimes I need help seeing the window. I’m enjoying the search.
February 02, 2010
Choices We Make
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Today, we have the choice to vote for those that we believe represent our interests in government. Whether you like politics or not, we all have the choice to vote. Unfortunately, since our country was founded, less and less people choose to make this choice. They have become indifferent, believing that their vote does not matter. I believe that voting now has more of an impact than it did 200 years ago. The reason is that those who vote get to choose who wins. I choose to vote today. Life is all about our choices!
Today, we have the choice to vote for those that we believe represent our interests in government. Whether you like politics or not, we all have the choice to vote. Unfortunately, since our country was founded, less and less people choose to make this choice. They have become indifferent, believing that their vote does not matter. I believe that voting now has more of an impact than it did 200 years ago. The reason is that those who vote get to choose who wins. I choose to vote today. Life is all about our choices!
February 01, 2010
Delayed Gratification
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I had an appointment last Friday with a young couple that built a house 2 years ago, and we provided a design and proposal the day they moved in. Now, two years later they called and they are ready to be Colemanized. What gave me hope was that they have been living for two years without any shelving in their master closet. Now, they can afford and are ready for it. Talk about delayed gratification. Maybe our country is going to be in good hands in the future.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
I had an appointment last Friday with a young couple that built a house 2 years ago, and we provided a design and proposal the day they moved in. Now, two years later they called and they are ready to be Colemanized. What gave me hope was that they have been living for two years without any shelving in their master closet. Now, they can afford and are ready for it. Talk about delayed gratification. Maybe our country is going to be in good hands in the future.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 29, 2010
We All Want the Same Thing
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
We all want the same thing in our lives, to be loved, really loved, and to love someone, unconditionally. Everything else is secondary. Possessions, a good job, money, health, all are secondary to love. If we don’t have it in our lives, we search for it in many different ways, whether it is through, power, anger, drugs, drinking, smoking, overeating, there are many forms, but it all comes down to love. We even sacrifice ourselves by allowing us to be taken advantage of, abused, used, getting in with the wrong people. Love helps us get through the “challenging” times. Today I will make an extra effort to love!
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
We all want the same thing in our lives, to be loved, really loved, and to love someone, unconditionally. Everything else is secondary. Possessions, a good job, money, health, all are secondary to love. If we don’t have it in our lives, we search for it in many different ways, whether it is through, power, anger, drugs, drinking, smoking, overeating, there are many forms, but it all comes down to love. We even sacrifice ourselves by allowing us to be taken advantage of, abused, used, getting in with the wrong people. Love helps us get through the “challenging” times. Today I will make an extra effort to love!
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 27, 2010
2010 Will Be Better
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Yesterday a builder brought in two prints of houses he is bidding. Another builder told me that over this past weekend that it was busier than it has been in months. It may not be blockbuster, but it is getting better out there. Banks are lending, not as easily, but they are lending. People are looking, and buying, not as in as large numbers. I’ve decided that 2010 will be better than 2009. Our forecast is better, our expenses are down, 2010 will be better.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
Yesterday a builder brought in two prints of houses he is bidding. Another builder told me that over this past weekend that it was busier than it has been in months. It may not be blockbuster, but it is getting better out there. Banks are lending, not as easily, but they are lending. People are looking, and buying, not as in as large numbers. I’ve decided that 2010 will be better than 2009. Our forecast is better, our expenses are down, 2010 will be better.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 26, 2010
Who Do You Affect?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I am continually amazed how one person can affect so many other lives. Fed Chairmen Bernanke got confirmed to continue in his role leading the US out of financial problems. Regardless of your beliefs if you agree or not, the stock market calmed down with this news. That is thousands of people, because of one. Which got me to thinking about the people that I affect, by my mood, my words, my actions, my work. How a spouse can be affected by another spouse. How a child can affect a family by their behavior. How a pastor or priest can affect their congregation. Who do I affect? Who do you affect?
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
I am continually amazed how one person can affect so many other lives. Fed Chairmen Bernanke got confirmed to continue in his role leading the US out of financial problems. Regardless of your beliefs if you agree or not, the stock market calmed down with this news. That is thousands of people, because of one. Which got me to thinking about the people that I affect, by my mood, my words, my actions, my work. How a spouse can be affected by another spouse. How a child can affect a family by their behavior. How a pastor or priest can affect their congregation. Who do I affect? Who do you affect?
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 25, 2010
Attitude is Free
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
The older I get, the more I believe that “Attitude” is everything. My “attitude” can make me or not make me do things. My “attitude” can influence others, whether it is for good or bad. My “attitude” can wake me up in the morning, or keep me in bed. My “attitude” can even help me to recover from disease. I watched the two Championships football games yesterday, while preparing for our taxes, and saw that one person had an impact on their entire team, on their hometown fans, and on ownership. Whether it be Peyton Manning, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, or Mark Sanchez. Their attitude and belief in not just themselves, but their team, brought them all this way, to the Conference Championship Game. Everybody did better this whole season. Played better than their skills showed, coached better than their resume, ran for more yards, caught more passes, made more field goals…To think, it all started with one person’s attitude.
The funny thing about this attitude thing is that this is free, I don’t need special training, I don’t need a college degree, I don’t need to be a certain age, and I just have to decide. Today, I will watch my attitude, and today I will share my attitude with others.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
The older I get, the more I believe that “Attitude” is everything. My “attitude” can make me or not make me do things. My “attitude” can influence others, whether it is for good or bad. My “attitude” can wake me up in the morning, or keep me in bed. My “attitude” can even help me to recover from disease. I watched the two Championships football games yesterday, while preparing for our taxes, and saw that one person had an impact on their entire team, on their hometown fans, and on ownership. Whether it be Peyton Manning, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, or Mark Sanchez. Their attitude and belief in not just themselves, but their team, brought them all this way, to the Conference Championship Game. Everybody did better this whole season. Played better than their skills showed, coached better than their resume, ran for more yards, caught more passes, made more field goals…To think, it all started with one person’s attitude.
The funny thing about this attitude thing is that this is free, I don’t need special training, I don’t need a college degree, I don’t need to be a certain age, and I just have to decide. Today, I will watch my attitude, and today I will share my attitude with others.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 22, 2010
What's Your Steroid?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Hearing about Mark McGuire using steroids in baseball got me to thinking. He used steroids because he felt that he needed the drug to play better. What type of “steroid” do I need to be a better businessman, husband, father, grandfather? For me it starts with my attitude, but then leads into education. Today, I will educate myself in some fashion, whether it’s to look something up on the internet, get a book from the library, ask a friend “how do you do that?”. Will you join me?
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
Hearing about Mark McGuire using steroids in baseball got me to thinking. He used steroids because he felt that he needed the drug to play better. What type of “steroid” do I need to be a better businessman, husband, father, grandfather? For me it starts with my attitude, but then leads into education. Today, I will educate myself in some fashion, whether it’s to look something up on the internet, get a book from the library, ask a friend “how do you do that?”. Will you join me?
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 19, 2010
It's the Little Things
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Today was one of those days that my plan for the day was not fulfilled. I was feeling a little down about it, and one phone call got me back on track. I know we all know it in our heads, but sometimes we need to be reminded that it’s the little things that we do in life, to each other that make the biggest differences. I will continue to work hard on doing the little things for not just my customers, but my friends, family, and co-workers.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
Today was one of those days that my plan for the day was not fulfilled. I was feeling a little down about it, and one phone call got me back on track. I know we all know it in our heads, but sometimes we need to be reminded that it’s the little things that we do in life, to each other that make the biggest differences. I will continue to work hard on doing the little things for not just my customers, but my friends, family, and co-workers.
Don’t forget to follow these emails on my blog http://colemanized.blogspot.com/ I have all of the emails from January 2010, and through mid-March 2009. In a few weeks all of the emails I have sent will be posted on my blog. Be sure to pass this along to all those you feel could use a Coleman Moment.
January 18, 2010
Moments of Celebration
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I attended my granddaughter’s 1 year old birthday party yesterday. Both sets of great grandparents were there, and I was thankful. I find that we don’t create moments for celebration often enough. For it is in those moments that memories are made. How can I, or we create and attend more Moments of Celebration”?
I attended my granddaughter’s 1 year old birthday party yesterday. Both sets of great grandparents were there, and I was thankful. I find that we don’t create moments for celebration often enough. For it is in those moments that memories are made. How can I, or we create and attend more Moments of Celebration”?
January 16, 2010
I've Jumped into Social Media
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I’m not sure if I am succumbing to world of change, or if I am being smart by adding to my workload, but because many of you have asked over the last year, I have started a blog to post all of the current and last years “Positive” emails that I have sent. If you read blogs, please find me at: http://colemanized.blogspot.com/
Also, I will begin to coordinate these efforts with Facebook and Twitter. All I need to do is figure it out, that is after I figure out how to use a Blackberry. Yes, I will now have one of these as well. It turns out that a company called Cbeyond can provide my company with faster and better service for phone, internet, email, backups, and a lot of things that I don’t know yet, for less money than I was paying, about $200 a month less.
So, if you would like to tell your friends about the blog, go right ahead and join in the movement of getting through these “challenging” times thinking in a better way. Thank you all for your words of encouragement, it confirms that together we all can become better and more successful, one day at a time.
I’m not sure if I am succumbing to world of change, or if I am being smart by adding to my workload, but because many of you have asked over the last year, I have started a blog to post all of the current and last years “Positive” emails that I have sent. If you read blogs, please find me at: http://colemanized.blogspot.com/
Also, I will begin to coordinate these efforts with Facebook and Twitter. All I need to do is figure it out, that is after I figure out how to use a Blackberry. Yes, I will now have one of these as well. It turns out that a company called Cbeyond can provide my company with faster and better service for phone, internet, email, backups, and a lot of things that I don’t know yet, for less money than I was paying, about $200 a month less.
So, if you would like to tell your friends about the blog, go right ahead and join in the movement of getting through these “challenging” times thinking in a better way. Thank you all for your words of encouragement, it confirms that together we all can become better and more successful, one day at a time.
January 15, 2010
Money is begining to flow
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I attended a Builders Meeting last night, and they had a panel of 7 bankers talk about lending and our economy. In summary, things got tight and no lending occurred. Now, there are many restrictions and/or controls to avoid the problems that were created, but lending is occurring. Primarily, for a round peg to fit into a round hole. If anyone does not fit within the boxes, it is very difficult. Again, lending is occurring and though it is a tough and slow road we are on, we are moving. The overall consensus was that we are or have been at the bottom, and we are on our way out of this recession. Though I heard several sad stories, it was good to talk with people that believe things to be getting better.
I attended a Builders Meeting last night, and they had a panel of 7 bankers talk about lending and our economy. In summary, things got tight and no lending occurred. Now, there are many restrictions and/or controls to avoid the problems that were created, but lending is occurring. Primarily, for a round peg to fit into a round hole. If anyone does not fit within the boxes, it is very difficult. Again, lending is occurring and though it is a tough and slow road we are on, we are moving. The overall consensus was that we are or have been at the bottom, and we are on our way out of this recession. Though I heard several sad stories, it was good to talk with people that believe things to be getting better.
January 14, 2010
The American DNA
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I have heard it many times, whether it was in school, from our politicians, the movies or commentaries in the news, the American people from the day we were founded, are industrious, creative, and compassionate. We all know that our country has created large amounts of debt and future obligations for us, and in spite of that, we still are coming to the aid of the people of Haiti. Our country has committed $100 million, our Red Cross along with many volunteers from both the private sector and the public sector. In spite of our own troubles of unemployment, we still feel fortunate to live here, and we want to help those around the world in need. If all of the resources that are being sent to Haiti stayed here, we would be stronger, but we want to take care of our fellow man. This trait, that I have inherited is humbling. I feel fortunate to care about my fellow man, even in times of my own need, I still look to help those less fortunate. It may not be in Haiti, but it is still a spirit of giving.
I have heard it many times, whether it was in school, from our politicians, the movies or commentaries in the news, the American people from the day we were founded, are industrious, creative, and compassionate. We all know that our country has created large amounts of debt and future obligations for us, and in spite of that, we still are coming to the aid of the people of Haiti. Our country has committed $100 million, our Red Cross along with many volunteers from both the private sector and the public sector. In spite of our own troubles of unemployment, we still feel fortunate to live here, and we want to help those around the world in need. If all of the resources that are being sent to Haiti stayed here, we would be stronger, but we want to take care of our fellow man. This trait, that I have inherited is humbling. I feel fortunate to care about my fellow man, even in times of my own need, I still look to help those less fortunate. It may not be in Haiti, but it is still a spirit of giving.
January 13, 2010
Time to be Still
One thing I noticed is that with this slowdown over the past two years, I expected to have more “quiet time”. That has not been the case. We all need time to think, time to be calm, time to be creative. With all of the “extra” work these challenging times has created for us all, we need it that much more. The Bible states it simply, “Time to be still”. I found that time last night, to be still with my thoughts. Now, I am ready for today’s new challenges!
January 12, 2010
Learning Can Take All Forms
I, like many of you watch TV shows, enjoy them, talk about them, but have never gone any further than programming the next recording. Tonight, I decided to send an email. I have pasted it here as my first post:
Tabitha,
I caught the flu over the Christmas holidays, so stuck at home with nothing to do but watch TV. I enjoy several shows on the Bravo channel and saw your commercial for your Salon Takeover. After one show I was hooked. I have recorded them all, and can’t wait to watch another.
I am sure you get complimented all of the time, but the greatest value and the skill I enjoy most is you demonstrating what being a “boss”, being a “manager”, being a “leader” is all about. You are tough, but fair. You enjoy fun, and can make money at the same time. Above all, you want to serve the customer! What you let us see in your show, is all about running a business, not just a salon business, but any small business.
I started my business in 1988, and I have had my share of successes and failures. I have also been burnt out, and have found my passion again. Your show has sparked a new kind of motivation, and I just wanted to thank you. Many years ago I read a book entitled The E-Myth. There are many truths in this book, but one phrase comes to mind as I write this, “The worst thing an entrepreneur has, is they don’t have a boss. They don’t have accountability to anyone.” Tabitha, that is what you provide, you demonstrate it, and you teach it. I think your show should be watched, just watched by any small business, to teach each of us how to be…
One last thing, thank you for giving back to your industry. Start grooming your replacement now, it will take years to get them up to speed!
Tabitha,
I caught the flu over the Christmas holidays, so stuck at home with nothing to do but watch TV. I enjoy several shows on the Bravo channel and saw your commercial for your Salon Takeover. After one show I was hooked. I have recorded them all, and can’t wait to watch another.
I am sure you get complimented all of the time, but the greatest value and the skill I enjoy most is you demonstrating what being a “boss”, being a “manager”, being a “leader” is all about. You are tough, but fair. You enjoy fun, and can make money at the same time. Above all, you want to serve the customer! What you let us see in your show, is all about running a business, not just a salon business, but any small business.
I started my business in 1988, and I have had my share of successes and failures. I have also been burnt out, and have found my passion again. Your show has sparked a new kind of motivation, and I just wanted to thank you. Many years ago I read a book entitled The E-Myth. There are many truths in this book, but one phrase comes to mind as I write this, “The worst thing an entrepreneur has, is they don’t have a boss. They don’t have accountability to anyone.” Tabitha, that is what you provide, you demonstrate it, and you teach it. I think your show should be watched, just watched by any small business, to teach each of us how to be…
One last thing, thank you for giving back to your industry. Start grooming your replacement now, it will take years to get them up to speed!
Feeling of Anticipation
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
I received a phone call from a lady inviting me to her Open House, celebrating the opening of her new business. I asked “what type of business?”, and she said custom made furniture. I told her that I was impressed that she is opening any new business during these challenging times, and that her actions and enthusiasm has motivated me to look for the part of me. The part of all of us that looks forward to the new adventure, a new place to work, a new place to visit, a new experience. It’s like when we know we are going on a vacation and can hardly sleep the night before with excitement. I want to wake up everyday with that feeling of anticipation for what the day will bring.
I wonder what today will bring into my life???
I received a phone call from a lady inviting me to her Open House, celebrating the opening of her new business. I asked “what type of business?”, and she said custom made furniture. I told her that I was impressed that she is opening any new business during these challenging times, and that her actions and enthusiasm has motivated me to look for the part of me. The part of all of us that looks forward to the new adventure, a new place to work, a new place to visit, a new experience. It’s like when we know we are going on a vacation and can hardly sleep the night before with excitement. I want to wake up everyday with that feeling of anticipation for what the day will bring.
I wonder what today will bring into my life???
January 07, 2010
Be Aware of the Present, but Think of the Future
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
It’s been about a year ago that I started turning off the media because of the negativity that they spew. Then I decided I needed to think of at least one positive thought everyday. Then I needed to be responsible to do this, so I started writing this and sending it to my wife. Now, there are over 60 people who receive this, and some of them pass it on to friends and co-workers. In reflecting on this history, I started to think about what I was writing last year. One of the themes was that the financial markets seemed to be moving up. The Dow was moving toward 9,000, now just a year later the Dow closed at 10,573 yesterday. Time and distance gives us perspective. My goal is to be aware of the present but think towards the future.
It’s been about a year ago that I started turning off the media because of the negativity that they spew. Then I decided I needed to think of at least one positive thought everyday. Then I needed to be responsible to do this, so I started writing this and sending it to my wife. Now, there are over 60 people who receive this, and some of them pass it on to friends and co-workers. In reflecting on this history, I started to think about what I was writing last year. One of the themes was that the financial markets seemed to be moving up. The Dow was moving toward 9,000, now just a year later the Dow closed at 10,573 yesterday. Time and distance gives us perspective. My goal is to be aware of the present but think towards the future.
January 06, 2010
When Should I Plant a Tree?
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Recovering from this cold, I am a few days behind in the New Year’s Resolutions. Oh, I have thought about them, planned them, even discussed some of them. As I am now in the formalization of taking what I think and putting into action, I realize that we all like the beginning. A clean slate, with a new year, or a new month, or a new week or even day. It’s easier to start something “anew” than it is to change. It’s all the same thing, doing something on Friday of last week the 1st, or Monday of this week, really is no different than if we did it, or began it 2 weeks ago or 2 weeks from now. We all want to begin NEW. I therefore resolve to treat each day, each week, each month, and each quarter with an attitude of NEW. I can begin anything NEW when one of those arrives. It reminds of the question “When is the best time to plant a tree?” The real answer is 20 years ago. The next question is “When is the second best time to plant a tree?” This answer is “Today”.
Recovering from this cold, I am a few days behind in the New Year’s Resolutions. Oh, I have thought about them, planned them, even discussed some of them. As I am now in the formalization of taking what I think and putting into action, I realize that we all like the beginning. A clean slate, with a new year, or a new month, or a new week or even day. It’s easier to start something “anew” than it is to change. It’s all the same thing, doing something on Friday of last week the 1st, or Monday of this week, really is no different than if we did it, or began it 2 weeks ago or 2 weeks from now. We all want to begin NEW. I therefore resolve to treat each day, each week, each month, and each quarter with an attitude of NEW. I can begin anything NEW when one of those arrives. It reminds of the question “When is the best time to plant a tree?” The real answer is 20 years ago. The next question is “When is the second best time to plant a tree?” This answer is “Today”.
January 05, 2010
Started Back Up
How to Stay Positive in a “Challenging” World
Well, I started up this email again, and then I caught a cold. One person told me that is good, huh? He said that I now have my 2010 cold behind me, so I won’t be bothered by it later in the year. Now, that’s a positive attitude!
Well, I started up this email again, and then I caught a cold. One person told me that is good, huh? He said that I now have my 2010 cold behind me, so I won’t be bothered by it later in the year. Now, that’s a positive attitude!
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