One of my favourite comic television characters is 'The Old Man' on The Carol Burnett Show. As a comment on the post states, " I love that Conway has the comic presence to know he's completely shattered the illusion of the sketch by breaking the fake wall, so he ends it perfectly by just walking through the window. Brilliant."
So my question to you in this simple blog post is, 'What do you do to fix the problem quickly? Do you whine, panic, cry
or quit?....or do you enjoy the moment and go with it! Please feel free to share your thoughts or your own outtakes.

To your success,
Floydilou

Step into your spotlight. OWN your message. Move with purpose. Speak confidently. Present yourself authentically.
Have you ever noticed the way people walk down the street when you are sitting at an outdoor cafe? Do you notice how people network at a business function? Even if this isn't something we have thought about, we know that people's body language speaks volumes. I am not a body language expert, however, I do know who I like to connect to personally and professionally. I also know who commands my respect.
I love people watching. I find that how a person walks can tell so much of who they are, how they work and how they receive energy. Working as a waitress and bartender for many years, I would immediately be able to assess the style of service my co-worker would give simply by their walk. I walk fast and move around fast. My service is fast. As a customer you would come to my section if you needed efficiency and to get back to your office meeting in 30 minutes. (I only lasted 2 weeks in fine dining...too slow for me....smile). If a co-worker was slower in their walk,  it did not mean they were incompetent. It could mean they were orderly and systematic. It could be that a customer who liked to chat and be leisurely may enjoy that service more.  With that being said,   guess what you can expect from me when hiring me for consulting or  business ideas?....yep, FAST.
As long as you OWN your actions and how you present yourself with authenticity and you are working/living in your pocket, the spotlight will shine on you.  You will stand out. It's about being the best you can be and attracting the best match of people and clients to you.
Would you do business with someone who walked aimlessly? Had no conviction? How do  you talk or present yourself. Are you upbeat and well groomed? When you give your 30 second intro or you simply meet someone do you have that same strong conviction? We know that a firm handshake and eye contact translates to confidence as well as interest.
In your business it is essential to present yourself authentically. If you are shy, that is okay, however learn how to be in the spotlight YOUR way. OWN it. I remember teaching a very shy person how to prospect  for clients easily at the grocery store. She could do it with ease, once we discovered how to do it authentically. We were able to focus on her strengths. She could OWN it with confidence.
Be aware of your essence. Is the energy you are putting out in your walk/talk/posture truly how you want to be? Are there things you can improve? Do you know what could be improved? There are professionals that can guide you and coach you.
People are watching you even when you don't think they are. Shine bright in your spotlight...always.

To your success,
Floydilou

We all have our story as to why we can't or shouldn't. Our stories are so strongly developed that we don't even notice them and how they can hold us back from our full potential. The good stories we create will propel us forward.  The bad ones are just excuses. They may sound like this, "when I {fill in the blank}, I will {fill in the blank} or words such as   'because", 'due to", "that's how I roll".

So if we don't notice this pattern who will? A professional coach or mentor is my favourite choice. They are not attached to your outcome emotionally. They help you to discover it on your own and guide you to your next steps.   Choose a coach or mentor who is where you want to be, not where you are at. Have them stretch you.

A spouse or close friend may be able to help a bit, but they are emotionally attached. They are most likely on your same playing field too. They may have the same stories as you (the old adage, of like attracts like) You want somebody who can stretch you. 

I was caught in one of my 'stories' just the other day. I am making plans to move part-time to a Spanish speaking city.  While visiting the city in preparation, my husband suggests I start learning the language during the trip.  My response,  "When I get here, I will learn". He replies, "You are here now."  Busted! Thankfully I have the skills and tools to change the thought pattern. It's great to have someone call you out on your story. It is even better when they can guide you and assist you with accountability. As mentioned, a spouse, friend or colleague most likely will not take you to the next steps. A mentor, consultant or coach will.

Get called out on your story! You will feel liberated knowing what to do next which will move you onward and upward. You will learn the skills and have the tools in your kit.  I would love to help or refer you to the best suitable coach or mentor.
To your success,
Floydilou

_The other night I was watching the T.V. show, Restaurant Impossible.  At the end of the show, the restaurant owner,  filled with emotion, says, "It's light, bright and a new lease on life." Tears came to my eyes as I watched this hard working boomer who was 'stuck'. He owned and operated his business for 30 years and he was desperate to bring pride back to himself and his wife. The restaurant wasn't doing well and that made him feel like a failure. Not true! Sometimes you just need to allow yourself to hand over your control to someone else who can see you and your business in its best light. It will give you a new lease on life.

I enjoy make-over shows, whether it's for homes, businesses or people. My friend, Jenn Merritt , coined me as the 'transformation specialist'. I know how to transform people, places and businesses with my vast experience (mentioned below)...and I get my 'high' when we can do it quickly and affordably for you.

A common phrase the astonished recipient of home or place transformations is , "It's so light, bright and airy!" You can feel their burdens being lifted. You can feel the new energy it provides. The next time you watch one of those 'room make-over' shows, I  guarantee that you will most likely hear the words,  light, bright and airy. Yep, you will think of me with a smirk on your face. Another common phrase always said after a personal transformation is, "Look at my eyes!" or "I can't believe I can look this good!" It's as though they are seeing themselves being beautiful for the first time with a new set of eyes....and it's only make-up! ...or hair...or clothes.

5 Action Steps To Start Transforming Your LIfe:
1) Treat yourself. Make the decision to re-direct your money to the one 'stuck' thing that bothers you most. You are worth it.
2) Personal Clutter - Hire a clutter coach. Hire a professional organizer. Hire a friend who is really good at organizing.
3) Mind Clutter - Start reading good personal development books. Do daily affirmations in front of your mirror.  Write things down.
4) Business Clutter - Hire someone who is good a putting systems into place. Systems will give you freedom.
5) Home Clutter - Hire a professional home stager even if you aren't re-selling. Do you have a friend, family member or neighbour whose home you admire? Invite them for dinner and ask them for suggestions or assistance. Have your own "Trading Spaces" event within your own home. Get two rooms done in two days with the help of your teenagers and family. Have a professional decorator oversee the projects.

Simple transformations can make an all around impact in your life in ways you would least expect it. Let's get you started for the New Year.

To your success,
Floydilou

As mentioned above, here is my experience that brings me to the passionate 'transformation specialist'. 

I am an accredited CSP,  Certified Staging Professional - the art and technique of preparing a home for sale beyond de-cluttering.
I am a 22 years veteran in the restaurant industry - front of house, mostly face paced, high turnover or pub style
I have 15 years in a direct sales herbal and botanical cosmetic company,  - from Hollywood makeovers to personal development training

As the New Year approaches, did you accomplish what you set out to do? "
"Is your  life any different from last year?"

Would you like to start your own business but fear leaving your career...continue reading.
If you have skill or passion in the following categories,
I have 11  'off the hook'  and low cost start-up biz ideas for you that are unique and exciting:

Business/Personal Development Books
Mechanic or Cars
Greeting cards
Babies and Motherhood
Art
Cooking
Parades
Writing
Rural Living
Restaurants
Video

In today's world you can start your own business while maintaining your career.In matter of fact, I highly recommend you keep your job or your corporate position until you match your income. You can start your own business without spending daunting hours after long work days. Having a strong mentor and coach who helps you to laser focus, you can get much accomplished in a shorter period of time. Technology and other creative solutions such as interns, students, and virtual assistants can only expedite your journey as well. Your coach and mentor is able to hold your vision for you and guide you along so that each week and every quarter you see results. To start, I recommend working in 90 day increments. Most people can make a commitment for just about anything for 90 days. This allows you to take a step forward. If you don't start, what will change?  Work with someone who not only understands what you want to accomplish but can really help guide you. There are consultants and coaches for specific niches such as lifestyle, health, relationship and business.

Make a comment below and if you are seriously interested in starting a business for 2012, let's talk. I love showing and guiding people on how to turn their passion and skill set into a profitable business, quicklly and affordably. Will you take me up on the offer?! I look forward to connecting.

To your success,
Floydilou

Today is Cyber Monday, and with only a few hours left to purchase 3 Money Making Sizzle Sessions at a great savings, I wanted to share with you what to expect with your Sizzle Calls.   I promise you that your 3 calls will change your cash flow.  You will have a new way to introduce more revenue streams into your business or your personal life. You will have a simple strategy that can be implemented easily that will not cost a lot of money.  You'll receive a customized 'out of the box'  plan of action just for you. This is not cookie cutter.

I welcome your questions and look forward to working with you!