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Mindset makes the difference

Abundance and scarcity doesn’t simply refer to money; it’s a way of life.

Whether you view options as limited or limitless will determine what opportunities come your way, the quality of your relationships, your daily mood, and your chances of success.

An abundant mindset sends people out into the world generously. These are the most connected people you meet, the ones who take wins and professional setbacks in stride.

Those with a scarcity mentality see breakups and career blunders as devastating blows. The soul mate who got away. The Big Chance that will never happen again.

An abundant mind recognizes there are many potential paths and options for love and happiness.

There’s always another chance.

Guilt is worthless (mostly)

Guilt can be split into two faces: The kind that is paralyzing and negative, a harmful state that serves nothing and no one; and the kind that can help you fix what is broken.
The first kind, for obvious reasons, is worthless. This kind of guilt will trick you into thinking you are worthless. It robs you of your most present and precious moments and kills your confidence.
The second kind, however, can be a gift. This one can push you into unexpected growth. Instead of living in shame, this guilt prompts action. It can apologize for wrongdoings and set wheels into motion. New behaviors, evolved patterns, inspired creative projects.
Don’t fall victim to the first kind. If you find yourself wallowing in that direction, force yourself to turn the corner and see what good can come out of a tricky emotional experience.

Quality connections

Gone are the days when you attend networking events with a stack of business cards, trying to pass out as many as you can. The most seasoned professionals know that quality, not quantity, matters when it comes to relationships and networking.
If you’re trying to make an impression, ask thoughtful questions. Listen. And be curious.
A meaningful connection is worth far more than a printed business card.
P.S. There’s one seat left in September’s NYC dinner event. Get in touch if you think it is for you.

5 ways to add magic to your life

1. Say yes.

To people, to adventures, to new experiences, to uncomfortable situations. Saying yes will help you unravel all that life has to offer. Remove “what ifs” from your imagination and stay open.

2. Love fully.

Love yourself whole-heartedly, love others willingly, love the circumstances life brings you. Loving keeps you humble, generous, and able to receive.

3. Search for something new.

Go to new places, eat different foods, listen to a variety of music and lectures and plays. Keep your mind broad and your interests vast.

4. Be grateful.

No matter the circumstance — positive, negative, lucky, misfortunate — pinpoint something to be thankful for and look for the lessons life wants to teach you.

5. Cultivate relationships.

Nurture bonds with your dearest ones. Take time to mentor others and listen to mentors of your own. Identify role models and borrow some of their lifestyle habits.

Life is meant to be unpacked, day by day and year by year. Each decade will carry new teachers and gifts to you, if you are ready to observe, listen, and fully participate.

Find magic today.

How to build confidence

Confidence can be a deal breaker. Take two individuals, one with above-average talent and little confidence and the other with little talent and above-average confidence, and the confident person will most likely come out ahead. The difference between the two is that the confident person has practiced.

Very few people are born confident; confidence stems from an individual’s ability to place themselves in new and uncomfortable experiences while simultaneously managing anxiety and stress. Everyone has a critical voice, yet confident people have learned how to quiet that voice, or at the very least, push through moments of doubt and uncertainty.

The good news for those who don’t feel up to par in the confidence department? Confidence is a muscle. It can be worked and strengthened and developed over time. Here are 6 tips to get started.

1. Imagine a confident person.

Who do you know who exudes confidence? Someone who connects easily with others and the world around them. What would they do if they were placed in your same situation?

Pretend you are that person, even just for a moment.

2. Become your own cheerleader.

Write affirmations on sticky notes and place them throughout your house, in your kitchen, in your car. Set calendar reminders with motivational quotes. Listen to uplifting music. Fill your mind with positive thoughts and build an atmosphere that encourages creativity and hope.

3. Scare yourself. 

Intentionally place yourself in uncomfortable or new situations. Regularly. Whether you’re afraid of rejection or failing or being laughed at, push yourself into challenging territories. Each time you successfully navigate a new experience, your belief in yourself and your abilities will increase.

4. Make a “Did-It” list.

Instead of listing all of the things you need to do, take time to reflect on what you have accomplished. Even if you have fallen short on your goals, congratulate yourself for trying. It can be helpful to write lists of past accomplishments. Take stock of what you’re proud of and remind yourself of your capabilities.

5. Practice care.

Take care of yourself: Body, mind, and spirit. Eat foods rich in nutrients. Move, walk, run, lift things. Meditate or practice yoga. Dress in clothes that make you feel good. And take care of others. Volunteer. Teach a class. Caring for your self and others improves self-efficacy, your belief in yourself and your ability to create change.

6. Learn to say no.

Say no to people who aren’t good for you. Say no to obligations that suck your time. Say no to habits that aren’t helping you reach your goals. Say no to negative thoughts.

Remember that you are valuable. You deserve the best. You are worthy.

What are your confidence-boosting tips? Tweet me to share your secrets.

5 tips necessary to sell any product or service

The ability to sell is a skill necessary in most organizations. From healthcare to advertising, the ability to communicate your worth or the value of your services is essential to close any deal. But there is more to good salespeople than the ability to spin words.

  1. Don’t take rejection personally.

You will hear “no.” Keep going anyway. Selling takes time. Act professional throughout the process; when you’re on fire and can’t seem to lose, act professional. When you can’t seem to sell anything and can’t seem to win, act professional. Stack odds in your favor for a later time.

  1. Play the long game.

Focus on the results that you want, not on any one specific activity. Check in with yourself regularly to make sure your daily decisions are setting you up to achieve your business and sales goals. Keep a record book: Track the emails you send, who you speak to, and when you have promised to call.

  1. Lead with honesty.

Be a real person. Get to know your clients and customers. Ask questions. Do research. Only after you have gotten to know the person sitting across from you can you tailor your messages and sales pitch accordingly. Stories have power, but only if they are relevant.

  1. Go above and beyond.

Under promise, over deliver. Look for ways to provide extra service or care. Small, thoughtful actions reassure customers that they have made the right choice. Demonstrate your appreciation with a short note or useful gift.

  1. Take care.

Selling is often more about you than it is about your customer. Life isn’t only work; take care of your health and your mental state so you can shine from the inside out. People are attracted to kind, nice people. Be one of those people.

You are the foundation for your sales success. Take responsibility for it.

For more helpful sales tips, check out Greg Gore’s 101 Ways to Succeed in Selling.