Happy Independence Day!

Posted on by LisaKBradley

In 1776 the leaders of our country took a stand and declared that they would no longer be controlled, they dissolved the bands that held them back and kept them limited, and they chose a new life. What if you celebrated this holiday by doing the same for yourself?

The Declaration of Independence came about because a system of government wasn’t working. That governing system was holding people back, telling them they weren’t worthy or deserving of better and that they weren’t equal. Do you have internal governing systems; self talk, beliefs and paradigms that are holding you back? Is it time you declared your independence from those old ways of thinking and being, and created the life, success, and world you desire?

Check out the power and wisdom of The Declaration of Independence but as you read think of that “system of governance” as the thoughts in your head that hold you back and limit you… (I took some serious liberties and shortened this but added nothing):

“When…it becomes necessary for one…to dissolve the…bands…and to assume…the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and…God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of man…”

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all…are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness… That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive…it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”

“…experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But… it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security… to alter their former Systems of Government…”

Isn’t that amazing. They were strong enough in themselves and wise enough to know that they deserved better, that the conventional, known way wasn’t working and was holding them back. And… they did something about it.

What about you? Are you ready to declare your independence and go for the extraordinary life that awaits you?! We are such amazing beings and yet we hold our selves back. Like the founders of our country, what in your own life do you need to take a stand for or a stand against?

What holds you back? What self talk, paradigms, beliefs, habits, etc. keep you playing smaller than you dream? What keeps you “governed” and living a life that is less than you are capable of and less than you deserve? The voices in our heads, our self-talk is our internal form of government. It is so much louder and more powerful than anything or anyone outside of us… for bad or good. The sad thing is we often don’t realize that it is our voice and we can change what it says, and whether it is for us or against us. We can overthrow that form of “government” and choose to create a new one… a new experience, a new level of success, a new life, new possibilities, a new world… for our selves and in general.

Change! Those negative thought are just habits. It doesn’t matter where they started or how long you’ve been thinking them, you can change them… starting now. Changing our self talk from negative/non-supportive to positive/supportive is just like changing any habit or muscle, or any other change in life. At first it may seem clunky and awkward… like working out for the first time after a long stretch of not. It may even be painful and start a disagreement within us or around us (our own form of war). But as time goes on, if we keep flexing that muscle; making conscious choices in our self talk, conscious choices in our lives, and living with the beliefs that we are worthy and deserving of life, freedom and the pursuit of happiness, and we support ourselves in going for those it works and it’s totally worth it.

Some possible new thoughts:

– When an opportunity comes up if your first thought is “I can’t.”, think, “Yes, I Can!” and then look for ways you’ve already been successful on something similar in the past. Affirm that new belief.

– Appreciate you. When you’re out living your life, give your self appreciation for what you do. Focus on the good that you are, that you have, that you give, that you know. Appreciate you. If you need extra help with this, at the end of every day write out, “5 of My Days Successes” and list five (no matter how big or small).

Isn’t it time we all start living based upon our own choices and our own values. How about with this holiday. Our holidays (Holy Days) can be as sacred as we choose. What if you chose how to celebrate this Independance Day in a way that really affirms and reflect you and the life you want?

What does the 4^th of July mean to you? How do you celebrate it? Have you thought about it and made that conscious choice your self, or are you doing what everybody does or what you’ve always done? And how would you feel if you went against that norm and did it your way… believing that your way was right?

If we are created equal, our voice and choice matters. To change we must choose… before choosing, we need to be conscious and not just do what we’ve always done. Re-define the holidays or any part of your life or belief system… it is your life. Have you thought about how you want to celebrate that Declaration of Independence Day… is it really a choice or an old habit?

Declare your independence from what holds you back… and stand for you. You matter, your voice matters, you have something unique and important to do in the world… start today, where you are, with what you have. Stand for something…listen to your own voice, declare you own truth, know that you are worthy and deserving… that you have the unalienable rights to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness, make your own choices and be all that you were meant to be.

A little extra food for thought…

Years ago I met a Veteran who’d fought in the Vietnam War and experienced horrible things. He was an amazing, interesting and kind man. He did his duty for this country, for us. I learned so much from him. On the 4^th of July every year he goes way off into the woods where he doesn’t hear the sound of the fireworks because they give him flashbacks of the horrible experiences he’d gone through. Hearing his story made me think.

Add to that my own experience of growing up on a lake, and seeing that lake on the 5^th of July. Film and garbage from the fireworks the night before, covered the lake and the ducks. My thoughts… “Why do we celebrate this beautiful country of ours by polluting it”… and, at least for that veteran, by scaring and alienating those who have kept us safe?

There are so many better things we could do on this holiday. It seems that everything has gotten so commercial, empty, superficial, etc. Most celebrate this holiday, that is all about that declaration of deserving, by drinking and polluting our country. What could we do instead? What could you do on this 4^th of July to make the most of this day, to make it meaningful to you? How can we be like those wise leaders and make a difference in a way that appreciates all that we have? It is your life, your choice, your day. Make the most of it!

And, Happy Independence Day!
Lisa

What do you really want to do with your life?

Posted on by LisaKBradley

This strange time, during this pandemic and all the time we’ve had out of our normal lives has many people thinking about what they really want out of life. The way we’ve been doing life when seen from outside of our daily status quo, doesn’t seem right any more.

The prospective clients I’ve spoken with in the last couple months are thinking differently than they were before. They don’t want to go back to the same old job or business as usual. They want more. More, meaning both more purpose, more life and more from themselves. They are wanting to play bigger and be bolder, to focus on what really matters to them, to not have lives of consumption and business as usual but to live lives based upon their values. Values of family, connection, focus on the greater good not just us versus them or self-interest. They want real lives, connection, passion, something worthy of their time and their life.

Today I did a Strategy Session, my introductory phone meeting, with a possible client who’s in this place right now. She’s this amazing woman with passion, great skills, experience and ideas. And, she’s not sure how to move forward. How to take all she has and make something extraordinary and extraordinarily hers. She doesn’t know where to start or mostly, she’s not sure what’s even possible.

As I listened, I started to see a possibility of what she could do, the business she could build and the impact she could have in the world. The more we talked about it, the closer and more possible her dream became. All those gifts, talents, experiences coming together almost like life being her higher education for her purpose in life (which often happens).

What about you? What do you really want?

What has life, to this point, given you that would thrill you to share with the world? The mix of the education, the experiences, the hobbies, the challenges, the growth from those challenges, the things you’ve done, your passion, your values, and the unique and amazing individual you are… what is all of that culminating to bring you to?

The trick is to get past the “but…”. “I want to do this new thing, but…”, “but… I’m not sure how”, “but… I’ve never done it before” or whatever that voice in your head may tell you.

What I’ve found in 18 years of coaching and in my own life experience is that you’re probably closer than you think. What it takes moving forward one step at a time in that new direction, even if you’re not sure what that step is. Just taking the next indicated step. The idea than intrigues you, that call or email that you feel like making even if it doesn’t make sense. Just do it and see where it leads. Then do it again. And again.

So, for your next chapter in life, what’s your next step? Read the book, learn the skill, call that person, sign up for that class. Just take that next step. If it feels too hard, chunk it down and do the first part of it. ✓ Done. Then the next. ✓Done. Gain momentum, knowledge, friends, and new experience one step at a time with a focus, no matter foggy, and see what happens.

You never know how close you may be until you start moving.

If it isn’t already obvious by what’s going on in the world, let me say it. The world needs you… You! The world needs you to stand up, to use your voice for good, to make your unique difference, to share your gifts, talents and wisdom. And if you’re reading this, I’m betting you need you to do this for you.

Your future is full of possibility. It’s closer and easier than you think. And it starts with one step in the new direction, followed by another.

Go! You got this!
Lisa

Strengthen From Within During Coronavirus

Posted on by LisaKBradley

This is a challenging time. I had a client call 10 minutes before her appointment to cancel because she was giving an emergence press briefing. Yesterday a client, who is always right on time, totally missed her appointment. Those are not the norm. We can fight it and try to be our normal amazing selves that show up when we say we will and do great (while thinking we aren’t “good enough” btw) or give ourselves an experience that we will probably never have in our lives again. A time out of our status quo, and just getting to be. (Take a breath.)

Take some time for you. Remember this is a challenging time and it’s okay not be okay. Let your self be human. Remember to breathe. And open up to the possibility of something new and good for you coming out of this strange and challenging time.

I’ve had my coaching business for 18 years and I have never had a time where things, including myself, are so relaxed and messy. Both of my clients were both so apologetic but because I’m aware of the impact of this pandemic on me and being gentle and supportive with my self, I’m the same way for them, and empathize for all of us.

We are human. This time is really challenging for us. And, one of the things that adds to the challenge of it is that there’s nothing wrong that we can really put our finger on. There is nothing to fight just this silent, invisible enemy that may be in anyone around us. That is seriously stressful.

So, give your self a break. Be gentle with you… which will help you be gentle with those around you, and your customers, clients, employees, family members, etc. Then use this time out of your status quo, let your self just be, to look around you and make different choices about your life and work. Choices from within.

Within every challenge is the opportunity
to grow and become more
of who we want to be… and it’s up to us
to find and use that opportunity.
Lisa K. Bradley

How to do this? Go to that tool that sustains you. Pick up that book, that practice, that whatever it is that supports you when things are tough. I’ve pulled out Louise Hay’s “You Can Heal Your Life” and am gently reading a little bit each day to give me peace and center me. I’m gently easing through the 12 Steps to ground me and keep me from trying to control this uncontrollable situation. I’m also gardening which started this year in my living room, the first time I’ve planted veggies inside. It gives me something good to do with my hands when I feel anxious or feel like there is something I should be doing but am not sure what that is. I’m also exercising, and taking more time off than usual because I need it.

What works for you? What are the tools or practices that work for you? Think back to a time when you were doing a practice that improved your life or something that grounded or centered you. Or, open up to something new that you’ve wanted to do and maybe not had time.

This is a time to strengthen our selves from within. It’s an opportunity as we are out of our status quo and our regular lives, to start something new. Something that may create a new and better normal for you moving forward.

Questions for Strengthening You:
– What will you start today or tomorrow morning to support your self?
Be gentle, take small and consistent steps.
– From within, what do you need or want more of to feel more safe, more secure, more grounded?
– How would you like to be during this time?

Ideas for Strengthening You:

– Books:
Louise Hay “You Can Heal Your Life”,
Napoleon Hill “Think & Grow Rich”,
Jeff Olson “The Slight Edge”
Darren Hardy “The Compound Effect”
Mel Robbins “Stop Saying Your Fine”
Or that book you’ve been wanting to read.

– Hobbies:
Painting, drawing, learning a language, or something you loved doing as a kid.

– Self Care & Spiritual:
Meditation, yoga, music, board games, cards, being silly and laughing.

Remember, this is a challenging time and it’s okay not be okay right now… and it’s also a time of possibility. Something new and good can come out of this time of being out of our status quo and our regular lives. We can start something new but first we must strengthen our self from within to respond versus react to what is so we can be present to ourselves and the possibilities around us.

I’d love to hear what you’re doing that support you during this time, what’s been helpful, and books that inspire, ground and support you.

Be Well!
Lisa

11 Simple Ways To Make Your Difference Today

Posted on by LisaKBradley

What if you could change the world today? If you could make the world better, even by just a tiny bit, would you? I hear you say, “Of course.” And then I hear you say, “But…” But, “what can I do?” or “I don’t have time” or “I don’t know how.”

Making a difference doesn’t have to be big, bold, or inconvenient. Giving back can go hand in hand with saving money, saving time, and creating more peace and connection. Pick one or two ideas from the list below – and try it! The ideas on this list may sound small… but imagine if hundreds, thousands, millions of us all did something small today to make the world more positive.

Tell me how it goes. And if you have more you’d like to add, please share below!

Speak positively. Commit to one day, or even just one hour, when you only talk about the good stuff. Skip the gossip, complaining, and blaming. Instead, notice the positive in others, and take a moment to share it out loud. Ask someone about the best thing happening in his or her life. Start a conversation about the things you are grateful for. Share a funny story, some positive news, or a useful tip you learned. And if your conversation partner is having a tough time in their life, hold space for their story, refrain from jumping in with your own complaints, and give the gift of compassionate listening. Tip: positivity is beneficial whether the conversation is out loud or just in your own head! ;)
Be the kind of person you’d love someone else to be in traffic. Have you ever had someone treat you terribly in traffic and it lingered in your heart all day, or the opposite happened and it reminded you of the good in humanity?Let’s be the change – in traffic. Let someone in, wave at someone to say thanks, give a forgiving smile rather than flashing a dirty look, and follow at a safe distance. These simple actions can create a domino effect of positivity for those around you – and they also make our roads safer for everyone!
Vote with your dollars. Not every shopping trip has to be perfect – but maybe you can choose one or two items on your next grocery trip to make a choice to benefit our community and our environment. Choose products from companies with values you support, buy local and organic, or simply buy less unnecessary stuff.
Talk to strangers. I live in Seattle, and there’s a thing called the Seattle Freeze, meaning that we have a reputation for not being friendly. If you live in Seattle, let’s change that together! I once read a book that included an exercise of saying “Hi” to 50 people a week. I tried it. It was quite a stretch, but I loved it. I became more friendly, open, and excited about going places. I was meeting all kinds of interesting people and my life felt bigger and better. If 50 feels like a stretch, start with one extra person today, or maybe five. What’s your goal for the day?
Ask someone for help. This might sound like an odd one. An exercise I was assigned in a psychology class in college was to try three things and note the difference. Talk to a stranger, ask a stranger for help, and touch a stranger. Then notice the different impact each had. It’s a wonderful experience. I dare you to try it, and just see what happens! It’s amazing!
Lessen the violence in the world. We want less violence in the world and are horrified by what we see, but are we willing to make choices to make a difference? Sponsors won’t support shows and movies that aren’t watched. If you want less violence, stop supporting it and watch less of it. This includes unnecessarily violent news coverage – you can stay responsibly informed without watching every horrific event on TV. It impacts all of us and the kids in our communities.
Choose one item, meal, or day per week to eat more healthfully. I had a great dentist for years, and I loved hearing the conversations around me while he worked on my teeth. One I have always remembered was about shopping the periphery of the grocery store. The edges within grocery stores have the healthiest items, with less packaging and processing. Better for your health and better for the planet. Shop there!
Be kind throughout the day. Whether you’re at work or interacting with someone in their job, take extra care to be grateful, gracious, and kind. Open doors for people, and be genuine when you say “thank you” and “you’re welcome.” Every interaction we have impacts us and the other person… and everyone we interact with for the rest of the day. Notice next time someone does something exceptionally nice or not nice to you, and how you behave towards everyone after that. If everyone did their best at this, the world would be a much kinder place.
Be grateful for what we have. It’s so easy to take our good fortune for granted. I had a big wake up call recently when I walked into the produce section of my grocery store and there was no lettuce because of the recent E. coli outbreak. To walk into a store and see that big, empty row… well, that was quite a shock! It prompted me to think about my sense of entitlement not only to fruits and vegetables, but also that they are nearly perfect! You can make this concrete by writing gratitude lists, and taking an intentional moment to deeply reflect on what you are grateful for – even for something as seemingly mundane as lettuce.
Volunteer. You have so much good inside of you – share it! Share your skills, talent, time and love. Maybe it’s signing up to officially volunteer with a local organization, or maybe it’s helping a neighbor without expecting anything in return. For extra credit, team up with your family or friends to volunteer.
Be present with yourself and others. We hardly connect any more, with others or with ourselves. We live lives of busyness and avoidance. We watch TV or some version thereof, look at our phones constantly, shop, eat, drink, and multi-task. When is the last time you just sat and had a long, deep conversation without interruption or alcohol? Make a date with a friend, partner, family member, or yourself to connect and be fully present in the moment. It’s truly all we have!

One of my favorite books, “The Tipping Point” by Jeff Olsen, talks about how change happens one small step at a time until there is a tipping point, like with compound interest, where those small changes add up to something big. Yes, this is about changing the world… and changing the world starts with you and me. Starting small can set your life in a wonderful new direction. Pick one or a few and see what happens in your life. I dare you! And share your experience in the comments below… and if have other ideas for us please add those too. Together we can do amazing things!

Are You Changing?

Posted on by LisaKBradley

Did you set goals and resolutions, and are you keeping them? It’s February… has anything changed for you this year?

We often try to change things without really changing. What? Let’s say you set a New Year’s resolution to raise your income, but you’re hanging out with people that complain about how hard it is to make money. Or, you decide to lose weight but you meet friends at the bakery you always meet at, overeat at, and talk about food at. Or, you want to go for it in your business but keep thinking the same old negative thoughts instead of choosing new thoughts, and you have few if any entrepreneurs in your life that are going for it. (I hear that often from my clients and have done it myself.)

Change rarely happens in a vacuum, but resolutions are often a focus on just one area of our lives. We decide to change without looking at what’s creating and affecting why we are the way we are. Not that we can’t change, it’s just much harder in a vacuum.

Imagine instead growing your business surrounded successful entrepreneurs or entrepreneurs who are going for it, moving forward and doing what it takes, learning from them, being empowered and inspired by them, reading books about what you want to learn or taking classes, and of course, having your own coach. Wouldn’t it be easier? Yes. And that’s true in every area of life. What the most successful people know is that it does not happen in a vacuum.

So, to make this year Extraordinary, what really needs to change for you to have that goal that you want? Ready, a little coaching:

What is your goal?
Where do you want to be in 30 days?
What’s holding you back? What or who do you need to let go of or be around less?
What could you do to support your success (what do you need to learn, practice, grow, who do you need to be around)?
What will you commit to (small consistent steps forward)?
What will you do today?

To make the changes you want; plan, choose new actions and thoughts, learn new skills and ways of being, and have a community that has or supports that new that you’re going for. Look for what will support your success and release what doesn’t, do what you can today… and of course, celebrate you and your success as you move forward. This will all increase the possibilities and height of your success exponentially!

To your wild and wonderful success!
Lisa

Go for your dream, make your difference… Live an Extraordinary Life!

Additional tools for you:

A powerful and inspiring book on change: “The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson Turning Simple Disciplines Into Massive Success
And join me at facebook GoForExtraordinary and let’s get the conversation going.

And… if you enjoy this, please share it!

For Extraordinary Success…Own Who You Are

Posted on by LisaKBradley

Can you build a powerful, profitable and impactful business in a way that works for you? Is there is any other way? Extraordinary Success takes owning what is unique about you; your values, your opinions and your way of doing things… and those challenging or quirky things that are uniquely yours. Embracing our humanity not only creates powerful businesses but businesses that empower us.

As an entrepreneur are you using your differences or feeling wrong because of them. One of the most powerful things I do with my clients is get them to own and value “their way” of doing thing… it builds confidence and empowers everything they do.

“In the end, solutions to big problems [will] come…by getting out there, asking questions, seeing things differently and finding the answers ourselves.”

As Branson said, “my learning disability has never been a setback — it actually gave me a great advantage in business… to bring a different perspective to problems and challenges… to see solutions more clearly… I would ask simple questions that others did not. Over the years, asking the simple questions and striving to answer them have become some of Virgin’s most important characteristics.”

“One thing that entrepreneurs have in common is a talent for seeing things differently.” He used what was different about him. Entrepreneur Magazine: “Richard Branson on Why Entrepreneurs Sometimes Struggle With Formal Education”

Take time to own and appreciate what you really have. Write it down so you know those unique skills, talents and passions, unique ways of doing and seeing things that are yours. Bring that to your business as you’re learning and mastering skills, trust your wisdom and instincts… learn the skill well but do the skill your way. When that voice in your head says, “This doesn’t sound right” or feel right, listen to that voice, to what you know. Then bring that to your learning and do it your way.

Imagine sales and marketing your way… a way that values people, supports their success, empowers them. And does the same for you.

As you engage your brain, your wisdom and trust your self more, your personal power will grow… so will your business. And we need more successful businesses run by fully engaged, values-driven entrepreneurs.

Here are some questions, and I’m going to ask them in the way that you may have heard as a kid that made you cringe and hide… but you are no longer a kid and it’s time for you to STAND UP BOLDLY AND CLAIM WHAT IS MAGNIFICENT ABOUT YOU, AND SHARE IT WITH THE WORLD!

So, what’s so special about you? Who do you think you are? OWN IT! No matter what “they” said, your uniqueness is an asset. If you want extraordinary, empowering and lasting success, you must value who you are.

Tell me more…

What’s great about you?
What do your friends and colleagues notice and compliment you for?
How could you bring more of your uniqueness into your sales and marketing? What would that look like? How would it feel?

The world needs you to be you.

Really imagine how it would be and feel. I know it’s a risk and it takes courage but it’s your life and your success… go for what you want and create something extraordinary.

You were created uniquely. There is no one in the world like you. Own it. Use it. The world needs you to be you. Your business and your success need you to be you. You cannot have an extraordinary business and life if you are being ordinary (trying to be like everyone else). Own and use what you have, appreciate you and all you are… even those quirks and “disabilities” to create extraordinary success and have an extraordinary life.

Go For Extraordinary!™
xo Lisa

If you’re in the Seattle Area, my What Piece of the Puzzle workshop will help you get clear on what you have and what you want, and use that to create greater success (profit and impact) in your business. You can find my events at: http://lisakbradley.eventbrite.com/

Beyond Goals… the Power of a Compelling Vision

Posted on by LisaKBradley

Have you set goals this year that you’re excited about, goals that are worthy of you and how great you are, that give you something exciting to strive for… something that is worth a year of your life?

The New Year has started, the dust has settled and if you’re that type of successful person that chooses their destiny, you’ve probably taken time to set your goals for the year. If you’re a winner, you’re probably already acting on them… Let me ask you, are your goals really worthy of you? Are they what you really want out of your life?

Let’s say your goal is… I will make $100,000.00 this year, loose 30 pounds, I’ll get that promotion, that new house, work on my marriage, and be a better parent. So maybe that’s not in your ball park but let’s pretend…

Is that really a worthy goal for you? Isn’t there a call in you to do something more, to be something more… to be who you are capable of being, to build a life that is meaningful, fulfilling, doing what matters to you and gives your life a sense of purpose?

Do you get how amazing you are? You are magnificent. You have the power within you to make a difference in the world, to do something with your life that is really worth doing. Are you going to do it this year?

Whether we set goals or not, we often go through life accomplishing but is what we accomplish really what we want? Is it what we want to spend our life on, or is it the shoulds and doing what our peers do?

Have you had the experience of reaching that level of success you so longed for, got there and thought, “Is this it?” Maybe you didn’t even reach your goal because it wasn’t exciting or compelling; it wasn’t what you really wanted to do with your life, and you end up not feeling great about your self or your life.

We want more. We want our lives to have meaning and purpose. We want work that really values who we are and stretches us to fulfill our potential. We want to make a difference in the world, to do something that really matters. We want goals and a vision that show us that we believe in our selves and in what we can do. Right?

Imagine… believing in your self so much that you set big goals, goals that include you making a difference in the world. You creating a compelling vision that inspired you to go for it because it sounded so exciting and filled you with so much passion, sense of purpose and gave your life meaning.

Whatever industry you’re in, you could be a leader in changing that industry for the better. You could run your business on your values, and even show how values-driven businesses are more profitable. You could raise awareness and create change in how things are done – any industry, you name it. You could express and lead in powerful social, environmental or even spiritual* practices through your business. (*which could mean religious or could mean practices and ways of being in business that build someone’s spirit, for your employees and customers, and even bigger by your choice in the messages you send through your ads and commercials, etc.)

Maybe there’s a book in you, something that will inspire and empower others or raise awareness or consciousness. If you work for a non-profit, maybe figure out how to make it more profitable, a healthier organization that empowers those you serve better – more social entrepreneurism. The list goes on and on.

We all have something, whether you’re in a job or have your own business, there is a way that you could make a difference in the world though it. Yes, you could be Gandhi, Mother Theresa… or think of the impact Bill Gates has had on all our lives, or the person who invented post-it notes. Think of the impact all those people who didn’t stand up and say, “this isn’t right” that went along with things at Enron.

We are so amazing and living such small lives. Most of us are living the status quo, even if successful. Was being a CEO at Enron something to be proud of? (Sorry I’m picking on Enron but the other companies I’d like to poke at are still around, and I don’t want to do that. I’d rather have us change the way business is done so those businesses that don’t practice good social and environmental values go under. Imagine that world. Let’s build that world! It’s up to us.)

Also, don’t get me wrong, I think we should make lots of money while positively changing the world – it needs to be sustainable, fun would be good too. Making a profit should and can be done with values, with our humanity and consciousness intact. A combination of The 3 P’s – Passion, Purpose & Profit ©.

Businesses are leading the direction of the world… why fight it. Let’s just change the direction of business and do something worth doing though our work and be very successful at it. On the cover of “values-driven business” by Ben Cohen and Mal Warwick is the line “how to change the world, make money, and have fun”. That line is a great food for thought and I highly recommend the book.

So, how about you? How about goals really worth your time, your life, and your talents? Goals that excite and inspire you, that fill you with passion… something to do that gives your life meaning and purpose. Goals and accomplishments that make you feel great about who you are, and how you are being in the world…proud of your self. How would that change your life, your relationships? How would that change your world… and our world?

Isn’t it time we really started being who we can be and living lives true to how amazing we are…and true to who we are in our hearts and souls? We don’t have to sell out or play small.

What do you really want to do, not just this year but with your life? And beyond business goals, what do you want to do through your business? What impact do you want to have in the world?

“Your willingness to create a new dream or vision for your life is a statement of belief in your own potential” – David McNally’s book “I Believe In You”

We can change the course of our destiny by setting a new direction for our lives. Think of two planes leaving an airport… just a small difference in their direction will take them to two totally different destinations.

Go back to your goals… what do you really want to do with your life this year? Go for it! You can make a difference!

Comment

Here’s to a life lived with purpose! | Posted by Brittany Faulkner, Seattle, Washington
Excellent article Lisa, I agree completely! One of the biggest problems in the world is people just don’t think big enough. As of this week, I decided that my ultimate goal is to be the ultimate success catalyst; to completely transform the world in all areas. I’m not afraid to say it, because I am 100% confident in my thorough and specific action plan and ability to take massive action to follow through. Another problem is that many of the people who do think big just don’t follow through on their goals. The biggest difficulty in influencing others through information products is there is a tendency to be temporarily inspired but let it wear off without taking action. This is where a coach or accountabilibuddy is so important and valuable. | Posted by Ben Resnick, Seattle, Washington

Harvest Your Successes, For An Extraordinary New Year!

Posted on by LisaKBradley

It’s the end of another year… was it successful? Have you thought about your year, your successes and what you accomplished and learned, how you grew as a person or business-person, and what new skills you have? How do you know if you’re on track for the life you dream of and moving forward toward it if you haven’t? And how will you set solid goals or resolutions for next year if you haven’t answered those questions?

Below is a simple yet powerful 5 Question Practice to support you in creating the life and success you desire.

To live an extraordinary life you need to know what’s working and what’s not. You need the habit of appreciating your wins and having a big enough vision to turn losses into opportunities to learn (more wins). Harvesting is a powerful tool and habit, whether you do it daily, weekly, annually… or as a Thanks-giving or New Year’s Eve tradition. It gives you clarity about who and where you are, what you have and what you need to have the life that you desire… and helps you see how amazing you are.

It’s easy to get on the treadmill of life and not be creating the life you want or not give yourself credit for all you do. This is a powerful step to give you focus and clarity… Creating a Compelling Vision is the next step but that’s not until January. So let’s get started on your harvest!

Think of farming… you plant your crops, you work hard at helping them thrive, and then you pick them. You get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. You walk through your fields and look at the condition of them. You learn and plan next year’s crops based on what you learned.

Your harvest is walking back through your year, your project, your… whatever you’re finishing, before moving on to the next big thing. I do it with my coaching clients at the end of their coaching programs to help them see what they’ve accomplished, how much they’ve changed, what tools worked and didn’t work for them, and how to take and use all of that to build their future.

The value of a goal is not just the result, it’s also who you become in going for that goal or dream.

Your Harvest. Look back on your year…

1. What Were Your Accomplishments and Successes?

Often we have a lofty goal or something new we should be doing in our business. Let’s say the goal is blogging. Our first step might be to just learn about blogging, look at some different blogs and read up on them. The second might be to learn about the different blogging tools we can use, the next taking a class or jumping in and trying it. We might have done all this and still not be blogging, or not to the extent we want to. And what happens is, that’s what we focus on… how we aren’t blogging every day. We often don’t focus on all those steps along the way, all that we learned and accomplished. We focus on what we haven’t done.

A couple problems with that, first, who wants to work when their work is taken for granted? If we don’t acknowledge that we’re growing we’re not empowered to take the next steps or play big.

Next, one of the habits of very successful people is gratitude. Gratitude is paying attention to what works, what’s good, etc. They put their attention on what they have and they grow it. They don’t beat themselves up with ‘not good enough’ they focus on and grow their strengths, successes and good… and those in others.

In coaching, as my clients learn and grow and move forward, I point out those accomplishments and what it took. Then when it’s time for their next big stretch, they know their skills and talents and resources… their past empowers their present.

Your Turn! Dig in, think about your last year… what did you accomplish? What did you learn? What new skills do you have now? Were you tenacious about something, showing you can stick to it no matter what? What did you gather – friends, knowledge, social networking, skills? What did you create along the way? How much money did you make? Did you reach a goal you set? And what about those things that that you just felt really good about and then as time went on you forgot? What about those good things that happened, those flukes and “miracles” (often times when we put those in context we see how we had something to do with them)? What do you feel proud of your self for?

Just let this flow. I like to use bullet points. I find it’s hard to start but once I start they poor out, then I get stuck again, then it flows again. It’s just a process. Just trust your way of doing it. You can’t do it wrong. Just start listing your successes… personal and professional.

2. What Were You’re Breakthroughs and Stretches?

Some of these are those big bold breakthroughs, and sometimes these are those things that felt like failures at the time but now that you look back you see that you learned a lot and grew a lot. This is often more the internal stuff or the lessons about your process.

What did you do last year that you hadn’t before? What did you learn, maybe about your self, your life, business? What were some of those work/life lessons you learned that knocked you down and you got back up? What were some beliefs you had about you, business life, money, etc. that changed?

3. What’s Changed In Your Business, Your Life, You?

This is big picture and the results. This is the place to look at the impact all of the above had on you, your business, and your life. It’s easy to make changes and take if for granted, to not realize the change and not acknowledge what you’ve done or how far you’ve come. And it is so important to give yourself. This is that opportunity to really acknowledge what you’ve done and where it’s gotten you.

Between last year and this year, what’s different? What changed? How is your business better? How is your life better? How are you a better person? What have you learned? Who have you become?

4. What Worked, and What Didn’t? What’s Serving Me, and What’s Not?

Now that you’re on that solid ground of knowing what you’ve accomplished and the impact of it, it’s time to dissect a bit. Check in and make sure you’re going in the right direction, that things are working, that the things you’re doing are working for you.

Your answers to this question will really help you when it’s time to set your goals for next year. Think of the farming metaphor again… the farmer looking at his crop. Did he grow as many carrots as he wanted? Did he like the flavor? Do they bring in the money he wanted? Are they good for the land? What needs to change? What could he try? What did he try that didn’t work? All with thoughts of growing a better crop next year.

Now look at your “crop” closely, with the thought of being more successful next year… What were your failures, what didn’t work? What have you been doing that isn’t serving you? Did you put your time and energy into things that didn’t pan out? Were there things that created the desired result but felt like more work than they were worth? Maybe you found a new method of getting customers but found that they aren’t the type of people you want to work with – so the method worked but next year you’ll need to tweak something. Are you trying to do something because you think you should and you just can’t get it to work? Are you wasting your time on something?

5. Celebrate! Enjoy Your Harvest.

What would you like to acknowledge yourself for? You worked hard, I know that because a slacker would not still be reading.

When New Year Eve and that stroke of midnight comes, say and feel a moment of gratitude for all you’ve done and all it’s created. Building a business, being a leader, and making a difference are not easy. You have chosen a path worth walking, acknowledge your self for it… for who you are and what you’ve done.

Congratulations!

See you in January when we Set Our Compelling Visions.

Go For Extraordinary!™
Lisa

Own Your Gifts & Talents

Posted on by LisaKBradley

“If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.” – Thomas Edison

Who are you really?

We are all so amazing, capable, talented, and valuable. And, we often don’t realize it because:

We define our selves by who we were in the past or based on what someone else told us about who we are;
We don’t take the time to see our gifts and talents;
Many of our gifts, talents, wisdom, and insight came out of our most challenging experiences and we don’t consider them successes or take the time to see the tools we gained.

It’s time to acknowledge who you are so you can bring your Whole Self to the table, play bigger, and boldly make the difference in the world that only you can make.

The following questions will help you see your strengths and open up possibilities for your career, business focus/niche, and mission.

Often in life it’s a combination of our training, things that we love to do (like hobbies or interests), education, successes, and the wisdom gained through our challenges that prepare us for sharing something of great value and doing something extraordinary with our lives.

Owing what we have and bringing more of who we are into our work helps us do what we value and are interested in, and also use our unique skills, talents, and insights. It makes our work more rich, rewarding and fulfilling, and success easier because we see that we have what it takes and we’re passionate about it.

Here are your questions:

Looking back over your life, in ten year increments…

1. What were the pivotal and valuable experiences in your life? How did they transform you and/or your life?

2. What were your successes (and best moments)?

3. What were your biggest challenges and what did you learn from them (what skills, talents, insights, and values, etc. did you gain through those)?

Before you start – It’s one thing to make a list, to take it up a notch, tell the story. Sometimes the biggest success isn’t what we did, it’s that we even did it. It’s also the values we expressed in doing it, what we learned, who we had to be in order to do it, etc.

Here is an example from my life. I think of first time I really spoke in public. This was way before I became a coach. I’d done a lot of personal development work and someone asked me if I was willing to share my story. The first time she asked, I said, “no”. It was probably followed with a reason or just an, “I can’t”. Even the idea of it absolutely terrified me.

I thought about it and it poked at me all week. When I saw her the next week I asked her if she’d ask me again. She asked if I could be the speaker. My eyes got big and I said, “That’s not what you asked me last time.” She thought for a moment, laughed and asked, “Are you willing to be the next speaker?” I said, “Yes, I’m willing.” I couldn’t even say I “could” but I was “willing”.

There is a lot more to the story but the point is… my “speaking in public” was big and only a small part of my success. Did I do a good job, yes, but that’s still only part. The real successes show when I dig in. What that day showed me: I am bold and driven. I am courageous and will push through my fears and do what I don’t think I can. I’m willing to do what it takes no matter what. I care more about being of service than I do about my ego. And, after I shared my story, the next person who spoke said, “So, I guess the topic is gratitude”. Wow! I love that. And, thinking about this empowers me. It helps me remember who I really am. It helps me stand up, stand out, and make my difference. And, when I speak now and fear comes up, based on my success, I know what motivates me and I focus on that (being of service).

Another place to look for our skills, strengths, and wisdom and what’s important and valuable to us is through our challenges and hardships.

My mom had a strange habit of leaving me with strangers, either at homes of people I didn’t know or she and I would go somewhere and she’d wander off to talk with others for very long periods of time. It was a bit challenging, to say the least. And, if you know me now, one of the things you might have noticed is that I can talk to anyone. Also, I’m very easy to talk to and make most people feel very comfortable.

The first skill, talking to anyone, was a survival skill… and I’m so grateful I have it, even if the way it came about was very challenging. The second, helping people feel at ease, probably has to do with empathy. I know what it feels like to be very uncomfortable so I help to lessen that with others. It’s now a strong value of mine. Both of those benefit me greatly not only in life but in my business. So, sometimes our greatest education, values, and skills come from the most challenging experiences in our lives.

One last thing before moving on to your questions, we often define our selves based on who we were told we are, how we were treated, or based on the past and who we were. This exercise is to help you define and decide who you really are now. Take some time with it. Own your good.

After writing down your answers, go through them and highlight the ones with the most meaning to you. It’ll tell you a lot about you, what’s important to you, your values, what you know, and who you really are.

And… as with any exercise I share, do it your way. There is no right or wrong. Trust your self and your wisdom. Add or change any questions or the wording in the questions to make them work for you… and enjoy your self! Mainly, just do it. You deserve to know how great you are and the world needs what you have.

To Your Success!
Lisa

Happy 4th of July!

Posted on by LisaKBradley

Isn’t that amazing. They were strong enough in themselves and wise enough to know that they deserved better, that the conventional known way wasn’t working and was holding them back. And… they did something about it.

Change! Those negative thought are just habits. It doesn’t matter where they started or how long you’ve been thinking them, you can change them… starting now. Changing our self talk from negative/non-supportive to positive/support is just like changing any habit or muscle, or any other change in life. At first it may seem clunky and awkward… like working out for the first time after a long stretch of not. It may even be painful and start a disagreement within us or around us (our own form of war). But as time goes on, if we keep flexing that muscle; making conscious choices in our self talk, conscious choices in our lives, and living with the beliefs that we are worthy and deserving of life, freedom and the pursuit of happiness, and we support ourselves in going for those it works and it’s totally worth it.

Some possible new thoughts:

– When an opportunity comes up if you first thought is I can’t, think, “Yes, I Can!” and then look for ways that you’ve done that or something similar in the past. Affirm that new belief.

– Appreciate you. When you’re out living your life, give your self appreciation for what you do. Focus on the good that are, that you have, that you give, that you know. Appreciate you. If you need extra help with this, at the end of the day write out, “5 of My Days Successes” and list five (no matter how big or small).

Isn’t it time we all start living based upon our own choices and our own values. How about with this holiday. Our holidays (Holy Days) can be as sacred as we choose. What if you chose how to celebrate this in a way that really affirms and reflect you and the life you want?

Declare your independence from what holds you back… and stand for you. You matter, your voice matters, you have something unique and important to do in the world… start today, where you are, with what you have. Stand for something…listen to your own voice, declare you own truth, know that you are worthy and deserving… that you have the unalienable rights to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness, make your own choices and be all that you were meant to be.

A little extra food for thought…

There are so many better things we could do on this holiday. It seems that everything has gotten so commercial, empty, superficial, etc. Most celebrate this holiday, that is all about that declaration of deserving, by drinking and polluting our country. What could we do instead? What could you do on this 4^th of July to make the most of this day? How can we be like those wise leaders and make a difference in a way that appreciates all that we have?

Whatever you do, happy Independence Day!
Lisa