Sunday, 28 September 2014

When you change, everything else change

"Give me a lever long enough, and a prop strong enough. I can single-handedly move the world"--Archimedes
Oftentimes, the difference in people's lives is the difference in the standards to which they hold themselves accountable. As Newton's Third Law of Motion dictates: "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." It's that obvious and, equally, that simple, albeit often requiring a Herculean effort to achieve Herculean results.
People who achieve the unachievable are, by definition, naturally unreasonable. It seems as though they make the conscious decision to replace their desires with unreasonable needs. Everything they partake in seemingly requires relentless determination, intensity, and a consistent element of risk to make sure they are constantly operating at a peak performance mode. A quest for a life of uncertainty, combined with a positive belief system, is what they excitedly wake up for each day. A "seize the day" mentality, versus "Oh crap, it's morning already."
In one sentence--the only thing that creates an extraordinary life is an extraordinary mindset. People who have that mindset often are viewed as a little "out-of-balance" by many in their lives.
What differentiates the top 1 percent of the population from the remaining 99 percent is the simple dichotomy of thought process. Those who choose mediocrity do so due to lack of self-belief, or simply a lack of desire to even begin to contemplate their end goals.
One of the most powerful traits of the 1 percent is their acute ability to seek opportunities in and out of every negative situation.
"I took the road less traveled by and that has made all the difference"--Robert Frost
Most people think this poem is about taking the underutilized road. However, if you read the poem, in-depth, the chosen road is moot. It is entirely about the choice of making that first step on whichever road you choose.
Master the trait of taking the first step, and anything is possible. Unreasonable people dominate their future by taking calculated risks and reveling in their own moxie. They live up to their own hype and believe their own vision. They must--otherwise, who will? In short, unreasonableness is defined by taking steps nobody else bothers taking.
Change is not a question of ability; it is a question of will.
The "out-of-balance" people who take the road less traveled are those who simply make a cognitive decision and then execute with little caution.
The more you demand out of yourself and the world you wish to create, the higher your standards become. The rare few who have a clear, compelling, avid understanding about why will inevitably make their move and leave the rest behind.
"He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how"--Friedrich Nietzsche
Those who succeed have a laser focus on their end goals. Our mind reacts to images, snapshots, and short films that we create and file in our memory bank. When envisaging the end goal, those of us with total determination have a tendency to magnify this image, add vibrant color and even animation. Those who never commit are focused solely on the anticipated turbulence of their journey.
Our animated mental pictures "salivate" our soul. The soul is only "satisfied" once the end result is achieved. Thirst … quenched!
"Where success is concerned, people are not measured in inches, pounds, or college degrees, or family background; they are measured by the size of their thinking."--David Schwartz
To ultimately bridge the gap between today and your desired future, you must focus on what you want versus what you don't want.
Imagine for a moment that all the turbulence, uncertainty, and risk paid off, and now your life becomes a smash hit? Soak in that feeling when doubt creeps in. In fact, revel in it.
Many of those in power will agree that their biggest fear is ultimately themselves. Being aware of one's extensive capabilities and unlimited potential can be daunting. Realizing that if they do not take full advantage of these abilities, they will inevitably become a victim of their own demise.
The best way to avoid realizing this fear is to simply take action. Energy flows where attention goes. Therefore, when doubt slips in, change your mindset, get up, get out, and do something!
When you change, the world around you changes.

Leadership Lessons From Eisenhower


During World War II, Dwight D. Eisenhower took a cruise around the Isle of Capri. On seeing a large villa, he asked about it and learned that it was to be his quarters. He inquired about the neighboring villa as well, and learned that it would soon belong to Army Air Force General Carl Spaatz.
“Damn it,” Eisenhower said, “That’s not my villa and that’s not General Spaatz’s villa! None of these will belong to any general as long as I’m boss around here. This is supposed to be a center--for combat men--not a playground for the brass.”
Eisenhower was never one for setting himself apart. Raised on a farm in Kansas, Eisenhower kept set times for meals and bible study. After high school he went to West Point and was an average student who enjoyed sports. Sadly, he didn’t make the baseball team. “Not making the baseball team at West Point,” Eisenhower later said, “was one of the greatest disappointments of my life, maybe my greatest.”
During the war years, Eisenhower earned his five stars because he proved to be a diligent, effective leader who could think strategically. After the war, Eisenhower became president of Columbia University and later, the 34th President of the United States. But Eisenhower didn’t achieve his leadership successes because he was particularly charismatic or because he was a brilliant orator with sweeping visions. He was a leader because he was adept at maneuvering within political circles. He preferred to move agendas forward and get things done rather than advance his own ego.
Leaders can learn from Eisenhower’s humility in five key ways:
1. Don’t take yourself seriously
Eisenhower said, “Always take your job seriously, never yourself.” His first priority was getting the job done, and he knew that humor helped. He said, “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.”
Leaders need to be serious and focused when pushing agendas, but they must have a sense of humor throughout the process. Humor helps deal with the inevitable roadblocks.
2. A leader doesn’t simply order people around
Eisenhower believed that leadership didn’t come from barking orders or mandating action. He said, “You do not lead by hitting people over the head. That’s assault, not leadership.” At the core of this sentiment is the idea that leadership isn’t about simply pushing your own ideas. It’s about a conversation that demands respect and listening--from both sides.
“Leadership,” Eisenhower said “is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.”
Again, Eisenhower stresses that getting people to move is a subtle process that involves dialogue and interaction. It’s not about defining what you as a leader want, but discovering what everyone wants and fighting for that.
Leaders must appreciate that leadership is about continually searching for common needs and involves conversation, both listening and talking.
3. Know that coalitions are vital
During WWII, Eisenhower said, “In a war such as this, when high command invariably involves a president, a prime minister, six chiefs of staff, and a horde of lesser ‘planners,’ there has got to be a lot of patience--no one person can be a Napoleon or a Caesar.” Eisenhower knew the value of patience, and that coalitions and political sway were necessary to accomplishing the mission.
Getting things done within a coalition army was a slow process, and Eisenhower relied on patience and humility. Eisenhower didn’t storm around and demand that everything be done his way. He knew he had to work within a system and lead from within it.
There are very few Napoleons or Caesars in modern organizations. Leaders need to work with others and build coalitions if they want to get things done. They can’t simply sit back, mandate, and expect that their desires will be fulfilled.
4. There are smarter people out there
Eisenhower had the guts to admit he didn’t know everything. It made him humble and it’s why he became a successful leader. In his book, At Ease: Stories I Tell My Friends, he advises, “Always try to associate yourself with and learn as much as you can from those who know more than you do, who do better than you, who see more clearly than you.”
It’s shopworn advice, but it’s something many leaders forget in the day-to-day. Leaders need to stop protecting their egos and learn from whomever they can.
5. A pat on the back is all you need
Reflecting on his leadership style, Eisenhower remarked,  “I adopted a policy of circulating through the whole force to the full limit imposed by my physical considerations. I did my best to meet everyone from the general to private with a smile, a pat on the back and definite interest in his problems.”
Eisenhower boosted morale not with inspirational speeches, but with simple, honest, straightforward conversations. Instead of handing out trophies, he gave his soldiers encouraging pats on the back. It was a humble, direct way of reaching out, and it made him a favorite of the troops.
Leaders don’t need to light fireworks to reward hard work and dedication. Honest, meaningful conversation and the occasional pat on the back are sometimes enough to keep people motivated and energized.
6. Be cheerful
Eisenhower made it his business to be a positive, cheery, and upbeat. He knew optimism, like pessimism, was contagious. By remaining positive and trying to “reflect the cheerful certainty of victory” he believed he could boost individual and company morale.
Leaders shouldn’t glower, whine, complain, or pout. They must demonstrate that they are excited about the larger organizational mission and work to cultivate a sense of optimism. Dour behavior from on high has the potential to incite organizational malaise that can spread like wildfire. Be like Ike and make sure your mannerisms and speech reflect a positive attitude.
Oddly, intellectuals and academics across America sneered at Eisenhower while he was president. They didn’t respect his easy, simple ways and thought he didn’t have the visionary chops for such a high office. A common insult directed at Eisenhower’s intellect was, “He can't read the briefing papers because his lips are chapped.''
Today, Eisenhower’s consistent, incremental progress and drive to get things done seems less like the work of a simple minded military man and more like the work of political genius. Eisenhower was a good leader because he knew how to be political and get things done while remaining humble and, more importantly, human.

Great Leadership quotes

Leadership is a learned skill. You can learn how to lead others by examining leaders you admire, by following their examples and listening to their advice. These quotes can help. Study the words and find out more about the leaders who spoke them--and whether they lived up to their own advice. See if their words make a difference in your leadership role.

1. "Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it." Dwight D. Eisenhower
2. "If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough." Mario Andretti
3. "There is a difference between being a leader and being a boss. Both are based on authority. A boss demands blind obedience; a leader earns his authority through understanding and trust." Klaus Balkenhol
4. "The best leader is the one who has sense enough to pick good men to do what he wants done, and the self-restraint to keep from meddling with them while they do it." Theodore Roosevelt
5. "The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things." Ronald Reagan
6. "Do you know that one of the great problems of our age is that we are governed by people who care more about feelings than they do about thoughts and ideas?" Margaret Thatcher
7. "A vision we give to others of who and what they could become has power when it echoes what the spirit has already spoken into their souls." Larry Crabb
8. "Too many companies believe people are interchangeable. Truly gifted people never are. They have unique talents. Such people cannot be forced into roles they are not suited for, nor should they be. Effective leaders allow great people to do the work they were born to do." Warren G. Bennis
9. "Dictators ride to and fro upon tigers which they dare not dismount. And the tigers are getting hungry." Winston Churchill
10. "Hire character. Train skill." Peter Schutz
11. "Leaders think and talk about the solutions. Followers think and talk about the problems." Brian Tracy
12. "Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing what they can accomplish." Sam Walton
13. "If a rhinoceros were to enter this restaurant now, there is no denying he would have great power here. But I should be the first to rise and assure him that he had no authority whatever." G.K. Chesterton
14. "Great leadership is about human experiences. It's not a formula or a program, it is a human activity that comes from the heart and considers the hearts of others. It is an attitude, not a routine." Lance Secretan
15. "The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers." Ralph Nader
16. "People buy into the leader before they buy into the vision." John Maxwell
17. "Leaders are visionaries with a poorly developed sense of fear and no concept of the odds against them." Robert Jarvik
18. "A man is only a leader when a follower stands beside him." Mark Brouwer
19. "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Solomon in Proverbs 29:18
20. "The art of leadership is saying no, not saying yes. It is very easy to say yes." Tony Blair
21. "A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don't necessarily want to go, but ought to be." Rosalynn Carter
22. "No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself, or to get all the credit for doing it." Andrew Carnegie
23. "Great leaders are almost always great simplifiers, who can cut through argument, debate, and doubt to offer a solution everybody can understand." Colin Powell
24. "Leadership is not magnetic personality that can just as well be a glib tongue. It is not 'making friends and influencing people'--that is flattery. Leadership is lifting a person's vision to high sights, the raising of a person's performance to a higher standard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations." Peter F. Drucker
25. "Nothing so conclusively proves a man's ability to lead others as what he does from day to day to lead himself." Thomas J. Watson
26. "The very essence of leadership is that you have to have a vision. It's got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion. You can't blow a weak trumpet." Theodore Hesburgh
27. "A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd." Max Lucado
28. "All of the great leaders have had one characteristic in common: It was the willingness to confront unequivocally the major anxiety of their people in their time. This, and not much else, is the essence of leadership." John Kenneth Galbraith

Friday, 26 September 2014

10 Major Traits of the Successful Entrepreneur



We all have different work methods and ethics. And sometimes our personal and professional traits don't gel with being a small-business owner or entrepreneur. You might have discovered that through some trial and error, but if you really want to be a successful entrepreneur, review the following 10 traits of those who set good examples--and consider picking up their habits.
1. They're Action-Oriented
When entrepreneurs realize what they want to do, they don't just sit back and wait for it to happen. They make it happen. While it may take years and several missteps for their idea to become a reality, they are constantly working on how to do so, instead of worrying about their uncertain future or drawing up contingency plan after contingency plan.
Being action-oriented is also a trait that hosting startup guru Peter Daisyme looks for in entrepreneurs: Because "being in a startup requires action, you have to work yourself to the bone day after day to succeed in this world."
2. They Want to Make People Happy
Entrepreneurs don't have ideas or launch a startup just to make millions of dollars or inflate their egos. They want to make people happy. They want to develop a product that the market wants and needs to make their lives more convenient. They want to make sure that their team members succeed. In fact, they even want other entrepreneurs to find success--see Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream as an example.
3. They're Proactive
Entrepreneurs are always looking for new ideas and concepts to improve upon. "They keep their eyes and ears open for an opportunity to capitalize on," says Chris Kemper, CEO of Investment Group Palmetto. "In other words, they're proactive. They are aware of a change and make it happen before they have to respond to it."
4. They Stay Healthy
While we should all eat a balanced diet, exercise, and get enough sleep, entrepreneurs take this to a whole different level. This doesn't mean that they're hitting the gym for several hours a day; it just means that they're aware of how not being healthy can harm productivity. And, they make sure that they can squeeze in the time for moderate exercise daily, as suggested by Jack Dorsey.
5. They're Honest
One of the many approaches presented in Eric Ries's lean startup is honesty. If an entrepreneur discovers that the market doesn't want the product or that he or she can't complete a deadline, it's better to be honest with team members, investors, and customers instead of lying to them. How can they trust a liar in the future?
As noted in a Tech Cocktail article, being honest just makes you a better entrepreneur overall.
6. They're Bootstrappers
Thanks to technology, the amount of money it takes to start a company has declined. According to a Business Insider article by Stuart Ellman from RRE Ventures, "$750,000 to $1,500,000 is now enough to get a product to market, particularly in the consumer space." That means they have to be careful, resourceful, and calculated with money. However, they may have to launch the startup or seek additional investments/income to also support their company in the early stages.
7. They Build Teams
Entrepreneurs build teams to help them expand their business. They realize that it's not a one-man show and that they have to surround themselves with talented, like-minded people to fill in the gaps. And they also realize that you can get your best ideas from team members.
8. They Wake Up Early
Not everyone is a "morning person," but most entrepreneurs will tell you that waking up early gives them the opportunity to plan out their day, avoid distractions, send out emails, catch up on the news, exercise, or just relax and gather their thoughts. So far, this habit seems to be working for successful people like Richard Branson and Tim Cook.
9. They Ask Lots of Questions
Whether it's self-reflection or asking their audience what they want, entrepreneurs ask a lot of questions. Asking the right questions can guide entrepreneurs into the direction that they want to follow.
10. They're Punctual
According to Dan S. Kennedy, author of the book No B.S. Time Management for Entrepreneurs, being punctual is the most important habit for entrepreneurs. When an entrepreneur is on time for a meeting, phone conference, or completing a deadline, it establishes trust and proves to partners, investors, and customers that this is someone they can deal with.

LATEST: 50 Best Websites for Your Business


 For entrepreneurs, time is especially precious. Every wasted minute is a lost opportunity for networking, growing the business, and of course making money.
There are many websites out there that can help entrepreneurs grow a bigger, better business--but there are many more time-suck websites. How can you tell the difference? By depending on a cheat sheet for the best websites for entrepreneurs.
Here, a cheat sheet of 50 to get you started:
1. ForEntrepreneurs.com
The name says it all: This website is the result of David Skok's years of experience at Matrix Partners. With an MBA to complement his background, Skok's approach to startup techniques and financial modeling is user friendly, though strongly technical, rich in charts and equations.
2. OneVest.com
One of the most reputable of crowdfunding sites, this is where you can raise a maximum of $5 million from investors with a proven background. If crowdfunding is part of your startup strategy, head to the site with a reputation in the field for making it easy.
3. AudienceBloom.com
You're an entrepreneur, not an SEO guru, so leave the technical aspects of your online presence to the pros. Plus, check out the blog to get the latest updates in laymen's terms on internet marketing, SEO, mobile readiness, and the like.
4. Dutiee.com
The go-to site for social entrepreneurs, you can glean information on how to succeed as a nonprofit and ways to incorporate social into any type of business. There's an emphasis on ethically made goods, too.
5. Quora.com
This one's a no-brainer for many. Some of the most reputable entrepreneurs and leaders in the tech industry come here to dole out information, making it among the best websites to get your questions answered.
6. AngelList.com
Do you dream of finding an angel investor? A product of Venture Hacks, this is the platform for new companies to get equity from reliable investors; it also features templates to minimize attorney fees.
7. EpicLaunch.com
Even though this site is aimed at younger entrepreneurs, it's brimming with resources no matter what your age. It's a great tool for anyone new to the world of startups and has proved itself as a catalyst for building strong foundations.
8. BusinessOwnersToolkit.com
This simple guide is straightforward with no fluff. There's zero risk of wasting time here, and it reveres versatility, so it appeals to all kinds of entrepreneurs. If you want to get straight ito the heart of things, this is where you start.
9. ChicCEO.com
Designed for female entrepreneurs, you'll find plenty of downloadable resources here from a plethora of contracts to business plans. Even though it's meant for women, there are plenty of resources for both genders.
10. AllBusiness.com
This site is rich with advice and tips for just about everything an entrepreneur may need to know. From office etiquette to internet marketing, it's a favorite daily stop for many small business owners-to-be.
11. ForteFoundation.com
The product of premier business schools and mega corporations, this site is meant to encourage women to pursue business leadership roles. It combines the best advice from the best resources around the country.
12. Medium.com
Ev Williams, co-founder of Twitter, created Medium as a chic platform for blogging. However, there are also fitting reads focused on careers from successful entrepreneurs providing first-person perspectives.
13. TheBossNetwork.org
Join an online community of female entrepreneurs who encourage and support each other virtually. There's zero tolerance for flaming and trolling here, so you get just full support from peers and mentors.
14. ASmartBear.com
This is the platform for Jason Cohen, who doles out marketing and entrepreneurial advice. More than 40,000 people subscribe and depend on Cohen's lessons learned to help them shape their business.
15. StartupCompanyLawyer.com
Don't have the budget to hire a full-time attorney? This is where you can get the requisite legal advice necessary via posts that tackle the most asked questions.
16. EscapeFromCubicleNation.com
Read the inspiring blog of someone who ditched the office life to become an entrepreneur. It's easy to relate and always a better option to learn from the mistakes of others than to make them all yourself.
17. BrazenLife.com
The startup site for younger professionals, it's worth taking a look at the entrepreneurial section. The advice is straightforward, easy to digest, and designed for those ready to branch out on their own.
18. AllThingsD.com
Technically, this is a news site for technical professionals but it's a must for anyone who needs to keep up with the industry. Especially fruitful for coders, this is where you stay up to date on tech news that impacts entrepreneurs.
19. VentureBlog.com
Find out what Dave Hornik or August Capital has to say about venture capital. Whether you're looking for investors or want to become one, this is where the inside scoop is found.
20. Reddit:startups
You might go to Reddit to distract yourself, but it's actually an incredibly useful website if you can avoid the time-suck spots. Head over to the startup section to find truly helpful advice from those who have been there.
21. CopyBlogger.com
You don't need to be a marketer to benefit from one of the best marketing blogs around. Get tidbits of advice that apply to entrepreneurs and startups (and not just in the marketing realm).
22. CrunchBase.com
Everything you need to know about funding your startup can be found here. Plus, learn about the early days of startups, get notified of changes to your industry, and find out how cataloging rounds work.
23. Entrepreneur.com
Another obvious one, right? However, signing up for Entrepreneur's notifications or getting the app can help you stay up to date on the latest strategies and news affecting entrepreneurs. It's a must for founders.
24. 500Hats.com
Dave McClure started this blog to share his pearls of wisdom on being an entrepreneur. It's enjoyable to read, and learning from the founder of 500 Startups is a great way to get wisdom.
25. FTC.gov
The Federal Trade Commission has a section on the Franchise Rule that you need to get comfortable with. Find out all of the legal issues involved with franchise purchasing before you get in too deep.
26. HBR.org
The Harvard Business Review blogs are a fantastic place to learn from the best. It's the hub of MBAs from the Ivy League and features regular updates focused on entrepreneurs.
27. News.YCombinator.com
Dubbed the techie Reddit site, Hacker News is where you'll find all things entrepreneurial with a coding edge. It's the product of Incubator Y Combinator and provides and insider's view on the industry.
28. KISSmetrics.com
More and more entrepreneurs are managing their own websites, which means they need to stay on top of metrics. This site helps you go above and beyond Google Analytics, complete with a two-week free trial.
29. Microsoft.com
Head on over to the Small Business Hub at Microsoft.com and find phenomenal videos, newsletters, and other resources for small business owners. The information is useful, relevant, and designed to be easy to digest.
30. Noobpreneur.com
Don't let the kitschy name veer you away from this reputable source for small business tips and tricks. It takes a user-friendly approach to dishing out advice, and it's easy to soak up the truly good information.
31. Mixergy.com
The site that was built by entrepreneurs just for entrepreneurs showcases a series of interviews from startup founders who were once in your shoes. Learn from the best, and know you're in great company.
32. MarieForleo.com
Forleo is an entrepreneur who's enjoyed immense success, but it's her personality and character that make this blog a must-see. She's optimistic, light, and bubbly, and she knows what she's talking about. Many readers consider her a huge inspiration.
33. SBA.gov
The Small Business Administration has been an invaluable resource for small business owners for years. There's a chapter in every major city, but the site itself is chock full of the latest news and information for entrepreneurs, too.
34. QuickSprout.com
Need to learn the basics of search engine optimization (SEO) in a jiffy? The leader in entrepreneurial traffic, Neil Patel, is at your service. Whether you're an SEO newbie or a pro, there's something Patel can teach you.
35. Score.org
Whether you prefer your workshops in the real world or virtual, Score is the nation's leading mentorship platform for entrepreneurs. Find out how to grow your business smart by depending on the best.
36. SaaStr.com
Web startups interested in monetizing can get started at this platform. It calls itself "curiously famous" and is renowned for helping entrepreneurs make passive income online. It sounds easy, but it's an art and skill that you need to learn.
37. TheStartupDonut.com
Even though this is a U.K. site, it's applicable to startups on either side of the pond. Find the tools you need and the articles necessary to get your startup off the ground. It's especially useful if you have dreams of going multinational.
38. StartupMeme.com
Back in 2007, this site was the "unofficial" how-to guide for Facebook, but today it runs the gamut when it comes to covering websites. Want to stay up to date on the latest entrepreneurial news and website? This is your secret weapon.
39. TED.com
The talks TED features are inspiring and revealing, and though the site isn't "just" for entrepreneurs, there's a strong community of founders there for a reason. Many of the featured talks are compliments of successful entrepreneurs.
40. TheFunded.com
With more than 18,000 entrepreneurs and CEOs on this site, this is the place to talk about investing and fundraising. Whether you're a startup or your established business could just use a boost, don't overlook this resource.
41. boss.blogs.nytimes.com
Better known as "The Art of Running a Small Business," this Times blog is the ultimate tool for entrepreneurs and founders. The advice is current and easy to consume, and if you download the app, you have the latest information right at your fingertips.
42. blog.guykawasaki.com
Kawasaki's "How to Change the World" blog is a comprehensive platform from one of the best. Some of the most common themes include human capital, management, and advice just for entrepreneurs.
43. YourSuccessNow.com
A business blog designed to suit every industry, this is where you can get the support and encouragement necessary to keep moving forward. Enjoy the latest entrepreneurial news as well as features that highlight how some of the most successful of founders made it to the next level.
44. Under30CEO.com
Are you a young entrepreneur with dreams of making it big before the big 3-0? If so, then this blog is for you, but you don't necessarily still need to be a twentysomething to benefit from it. Advice for younger founders can be just as relevant no matter what your age.
45. Marco.org
The founder of Instapaper, Marco Arment, blogs regularly to help other entrepreneurs avoid the mistakes he made early in his career. Personable and realistic, Arment is your insider source.
46. StartupDigest.com
A newsletter worth subscribing to? It's true when it's StartupDigest, which focuses on information for entrepreneurs without ever getting off course. If distraction is an issue for you, it won't be with this offering.
47. Innerpreneur.com
The spirit of entrepreneurship is alive and well at this blog, where it's all about encouraging personal growth. It's something founders can put on the back burner, but it's crucial to be a well-rounded CEO.
48. TheEconomist.com
This is not specifically for entrepreneurs, but the commentary makes it a requisite for any business professional. You need to stay up to date on all news, not just entrepreneurial news, to cultivate partnerships.
49. Inc.com
The famous magazine has an excellent section for startups. Find out the latest in tips, news, and resources for entrepreneurs from one of the most reputable magazines in the industry.
50. Forbes.com
When you run a business, it's important to foster relationships with peers, colleagues, and partners, which is why keeping up with business news is crucial. Let Forbes make sure you're up to speed on the latest topics.
Of course, the most beneficial website is the one that works for you. Get to exploring, but keep an eye out for time wasters.

Thursday, 25 September 2014

Seven money making ventures for you

To my friends who find time to read my blog here, I think you can raise your income from any of the following means which cost you quite small money to start with, less than fifty dollars, you know.
Take a look,
1. A good Multilevel business, check allianceinmotion.com
2. Blogging, check blogger.com
3. Affiliate marketing
4. Online publishing, check Amazon.com
5. Importation of goods online for sale, check, value-added.com
6. Automobiles, import fairly used cars online and sell, check, misfortunes.com
7. Sell ebooks online and make good money.
I have tried them and they give me goo money. If you need more information let's get along here.




Saturday, 2 February 2013

6 Things Really Productive People Do

Have you noticed that some people just seem to accomplish tons and still appear happy and relaxed? Here are six tips for becoming more productive.
Productive woman working while on a treadmill

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People often ask me, amazed, how I manage to do so many things. Aside from writing two columns every week, I speak regularly, travel, create videos, manage my business, write books, consult with five companies, network, socialize, cycle, run, read, cook, sleep six to seven hours a night and have dates with my wife. Oh yeah, I watch a lot of television while hanging out with my dog as well.
Okay, I know it sounds ridiculous. But accomplishing my preferred future requires this level of activity. I have the same 24 hours in a day that you do, but I have made specific choices that allow me to make the most of every day, and still feel happy and relaxed. Perhaps these tips will help you make the most of your time as well.

 1. Pick Your Priorities

Make choices about the activities in your life. With most endeavors, you can either go deep or go wide. Focus on spending time that for you is fun and productive. If you like big families, have them, but recognize up front that kids require time and you'll have to choose a lifestyle that supports quality time with them, for you to feel satisfied. I chose the life of a consultant because I like to work with companies, but don't want the life of a big company CEO. My choices are based on the lifestyle I want.

2. Go For Efficiency

You don't do everything well. The things you do well usually give you greater joy and require less time. Don't take on something with a steep learning curve if you don't have the available bandwidth. Design your life to meet your wants, and recognize when to say no to opportunities that are outside the scope of your desires. Live your life by design, not default.

3. Integrate Your Activities

Many people go crazy trying to figure out how to spend time with friends, family, work, play, etc.  Stop trying to balance time between them all. Find ways to enjoy them in a combined manner. Build your social life around people in your work environment. Find people in your company who share common interests and develop your career around the people and activities you love. If everything is out of synch to the point where you feel pulled and stressed, a change is likely imminent one way or another.

4. Actively Manage Time-wasters

Social media, family, friends, employees, co-workers and general whiners all under certain circumstances can suck precious time from you if you let them. Budget your time for necessary activities. Make a choice to limit non-supportive interactions that don't energize you. As for social media, it can easily be a black hole for time and productivity. Use it appropriately and sparingly as a tool to support your endeavors and social needs, but lay off the Farmville.

5. Be an Active Learner

You would think learning takes more time from you, but actually there are always new tools and new ways of doing things that can save you time on mundane tasks freeing you up for your priorities. Always be looking for a new way to gain back an hour here or there. Just try it and dump it quick if it starts to drag on.

6. Lighten Up

No need to beat yourself up if you can't do all the things you want because you are handling other stuff that needs attention. It happens. The world won't come to an end in most cases just because you left a few things undone. Celebrate progress and keep refining toward a happy productive existence. This is why making lists and crossing off items is a staple in any productivity handbook. Every completion is a small victory that adds up in a big way.