If you are an American, you NEED to listen to the words of this song and let it penetrate your soul.

P.S. This was written by my sister, Chana Caylor and sang with her daughter Cassandra Ford. My brother-in-law Randy plays guitar. Yes, I am proud of my family!

Jim Rohn is one of my favorite authors, and he never disappoints me. I’ve read this book several times now, and it’s principals are timeless.

The first chapter is on philosophy and how what you believe determines the life you will lead. Other chapters deal with attitude, activity, results and lifestyle. It is short and bold, (only 121 pages) and doesn’t waste any words. It is well written, focused, and relevant.

Whether you’re just starting your journey in personal growth and success, or if like me, you’ve been studying it for years, this little book will pull it all together for you. This book can help you change the direction of your life. Mr. Rohn suggests focusing on the basic fundamental laws of life…and it all begins with how you think.

You must take ownership of your own life; personal responsibility for every choice and decision. You cannot own anyone else’s life and they can’t own yours. You wouldn’t drive someone else’s car from a restaurant parking lot, so why do we so often focus on what other people need to change, rather than what WE need to change?

Basic fundamentals- when you get a grip on them, you’ve got a grip on life.

If you’ve never read any of Jim Rohn’s books, then you’re in for a treat. You feel like you’re having a conversation with a very sage mentor who is confident in the truth. The teachings in The Five Major Pieces to the Life Puzzle is a very positive and enlightening experience.

This book is one of the classics in our personal library and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn (or be reminded of ) the principles of a successful and prosperous life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Being right here in PCB, Florida we’re surrounded with concerns about the oil spill crisis….right across the street from our condo they’re preparing for the worst.

In a large vacant lot are now parked big tankers that are used to siphon and transport fuel, two guards (who right now look bored to death), and other miscellaneous stuff…People have been hired to walk in pairs up and down the beach looking for “tar balls” or other evidence of the oil spill. People are anxious and rightly so, but they’re missing the boat when they can’t even enjoy TODAY because they are worried about what MIGHT HAPPEN.

Ok, it’s good that they’re being proactive, but my point is this…We’re surrounded with negativity in America…aren’t you tired of it? I am.

Just about all you hear from the media is the latest political scandal, economic downturn, foreclosures, unemployment stats, or equally negative news… (usually exaggerated) …kinda makes you wonder why the focus is so much on what’s wrong with the world, instead of what’s right. I’ll tell you why; because TV ratings go up, and magazines sell when people want to know about the NEGATIVE stuff!! If there was a boycott on everything negative, then every TV and radio in America would be cut off and no magazines or newspapers would be sold!! (This is just a fantasy of mine, so don’t get your boxers in a twist).

Why focus on the problems instead of trying to find solutions?

Why look for someone to blame instead of taking personal responsibility and working together to solve a crisis?

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was just one news station that only told human interest stories full of optimism and hope?

I for one, (like anyone who wants to) could have found a ton of excuses to be depressed, sad, angry, and fearful…but you know what? This great gift that we’ve been given called LIFE is an awesome undertaking and I don’t want to waste a minute of it. Whether I’m just hanging out with my toes in the sand, drinking a beer with a buddy, or walking the beach with my amazing wife…life is good.

If instead of concentrating on all the “bad” things, and all the reasons that things can go “wrong”, I think we should look at them as opportunities.

They are chances to help someone else, learn and grow as a human being, experience something new, expand our thinking, or improve a situation. Don’t get me wrong- bad things happen to good people; I certainly have had my share, it’s just that I don’t believe in living “under the circumstances”. I mean, what are you doing under there?

Train yourself to not look at the obstacle- instead, look for a solution. Think of a challenge as a puzzle to be solved. Go around it, over it, under it, whatever you have to do, but just don’t let it stop you.

If you don’t think like this yet, then you can if you want to. There is really only one thing in this life that you can control- your ATTITUDE! Your attitude will determine your actions and your words. So in essence, your attitude determines the life you lead. If you want to work on this, there is a list of books that I highly recommend that have really helped me over the years….(just look under the Leaders Are Readers tab at the top of this page.)

I once heard this story: A young man who had just moved into town, met an old man on the street and asked him, “What kind of people live in this town?”…The old man looked at him and replied, “What kind of people lived in the last town you were in?”….The young man answered, “They were all bossy, nosy, disagreeable and interfering.” Well, said the old man, “They’re pretty much the same way here!”

A older couple, the same day, stopped the same old man and asked him, “What kind of people live in this town?” The old man looked at them and replied, “What kind of people lived in the last town you were in”? The couple answered, “They were all nice, friendly people.” The old man said, “They’re pretty much the same way here too- nice and friendly.”

The moral of that story – you get what you look for, you see what you want to see. Your attitude affects your PERCEPTION.

Mahatma Gandhi said, “We should be the difference we want to see in the world.” What difference are you going to make? It all starts with your attitude…

By the way, the beaches here are still beautiful, so come on down and enjoy them while you can! We look forward to seeing you…

Wealth: an abundance of riches, resources or valuable possessions….as defined by Webster’s Dictionary.

Here’s my definition of “an abundance of riches“; I believe it’s a combination that makes up my personal philosophy of life.

First of all, there is a Spiritual Wealth: this is a personal relationship with my Creator…it also includes having a positive mindset, self-respect and peace no matter what the circumstances or situation may be. A strong set of values, a PURPOSE, and goals planned that will be then be easy to set in place. Learn to forgive. I have learned that can still be a warrior and practice kindness and gratitude.

Second, there is Physical Health Wealth: remember, “When you’ve got your health, you’ve got everything”?…it’s so true. If you can’t operate in a body that is working at optimal capacity, then how will you have the energy or focus to accomplish anything? This includes not letting stress take over your life, or body aches and pains dictate your day. (For those of you who know me, you know that I have a strong belief in this )! Develop a nutrition and exercise program that will allow you to live in optimal health and wellness.

Third, there is Family Wealth: it’s okay if it sounds “sappy”…no one dies wishing they’d spent more time at work. Your home should be the one place that you can go to and feel respected, loved and needed. It’s your dojo. If you are blessed to have a wonderful spouse, and children, then don’t take them for granted. Tell the people in your life how you really feel about them…never pass up the chance to say, “I love you”, or “I appreciate you”.

Fourth Friendship Wealth: Everyone should have a least a couple of really good friends that they can depend on when the chips are down, and to celebrate life with too. You need a couple of buddies that you can have a good laugh with, or bounce some idea off of from time to time. I have some friends that no matter where we are in the world, all it would take a phone call if they needed me, or I needed them. This is the type of friend that I’m talking about that is absolutely priceless. A true friend still likes you, warts and all!

Fifth, there is Work Wealth: your career- whatever you choose to do to earn income, do it with the best of your ability and a great attitude. A job well-done will make you proud, and there is always someone watching your example. Be a leader in your field. Always strive for excellence. Be a professional at whatever you choose to do.

Sixth, yes it’s the green stuff we all must have to provide for our families: Economic Wealth. Money is neither good or evil- it’s what you do with it that matters. The more you earn, the more you can give away to those in need. Also, I haven’t found a mortgage company yet that let me pay them with a hug! It’s okay to make a “lot” of money. Money just emphasizes the kind of person you already are…if you’re a jerk now, you’ll just be bigger jerk, but if you’re a generous soul, then well, you’ll know what to do.

Seventh, Wisdom Wealth: Take the income of the five people closest to you, divide it by 5 and that is more than likely you’re earned income. Also, surround yourself with mentors who are good at what you want to learn. Form a Master Mind Group with mentors from every field- and make sure they are exceptional human beings with the “proof on the tree”. Be constantly in a learning mindset. Be open to new ideas.

Eighth, Creative Wealth: Humans crave adventure, challenges, and passion.

What brings you joy? What makes you feel alive? What are you passionate about?

Ninth, the Wealth of Influence: Everyone wants to be important in the life of another. Dare to be the difference you wish to see in the world. Dare to be different so that you can make a difference in someone else’s life. Leave a legacy. Be a giver, not a taker. Be generous with your money and your time.

So, here’s what true wealth means to me, and I urge you to think about what it means to you.

Don’t get so caught up in making a living that you forget to actually have a life! Be true to yourself and be a person of high character….live your life as if you’re on one of those reality shows and the camera is on YOU!
It is, you know…

This book by Brian Klemmer is one of the best books that I’ve ever read about character; I have often given copies of this book as a gift.

I was privileged to meet Brian when I took some of his personal development courses a few years ago; he is an extraordinary leader and teacher in his chosen field.

Being a former Army Ranger, I can identify with being a warrior, but a compassionate warrior seemed to be a contradiction…so what does this mean exactly?

The Samurai were members of a Japanese warrior caste that rose to power in the 12th century and dominated the government until 1868. The warriors lived according to a very strict code of values, later known as Bushido, literally means “the way of the warrior”. These were Warriors that emphasized bravery, honor, and loyalty. The word Samurai means “to serve”.

In other words, Brian has coined this phrase to mean a person with the strong values of a warrior, yet whose whole life is all about serving others with kindness.

What a perfect match of character traits! With this balance, you can achieve any goal that you set for yourself, including extraordinary relationships, career advancement, financial prosperity, and optimal health and wellness.

Use the Compassionate Samurai as a working guide to help you embrace the concept of living to help others win in life. Excitement may create temporary momentum, but character is the only thing that lasts.

In this book, there are ten codes (or character traits) that a Compassionate Samurai lives by: commitment, personal responsibility, contribution, focus, honesty, honor, trust, abundance, boldness, and knowledge. These are the traits that make a skilled warrior in battle as well as a compassionate fighter and creator. This book is not one to be taken lightly; glossed over, and checked off a list. This is a book for people who are serious about making change in their lives; it’s all about taking personal responsibility for your life and the way you treat others.

Each trait listed is elaborated on in great detail -to be practiced as a daily regimen until they become habitual.

Most books give information on how to do something and that’s not bad. But how-to’s lead only to incremental increases; these are small, progressive steps toward change. Much greater, lasting shifts or exponential alterations occur when you actually change your character; and each trait is inter-linked in becoming the best possible version of yourself.

Most people believe that they have to choose one over the other: financial success or spirituality, career or relationships, poverty or significance.
You don’t have to make this choice…you can be wealthy, spiritual, and giving. You can be a warrior in the marketplace as well as a strong-willed, compassionate friend and spouse.

If you’ve ever had a challenge on either end of the spectrum by demonstrating compassion toward others or by winning big battles in life (the true warrior within) this book will show the way to strategically combine the two, making you the victor that you were always destined to be.

I also highly recommend Klemmer and Associates seminars to anyone who wants to make the shift from being average to being a super achiever with insight and vision.

If you were going to teach someone to scuba dive, you wouldn’t just toss them the equipment and say “go for it”, would you? Of course not.

You can’t do it that way in business either…you must take the time yourself to learn and DO the basic fundamentals before you can teach or instruct someone else.

Hopefully, you’re also a person of vision who wants to be a great leader and help the members of your team become stronger and more confident, so here’s Business Success continued….

(21) Have a D.M.O. – Daily Method of Operation. Would you guess what you’d do today at your job?

(22) Do not ever pass along any comment that is negative, de-edifying, gossip or a rumor. As the leader, that stops with you and is instantly discouraged.

(23) Invest in training CD’s and listen to them daily; turn your vehicle into a “road university.”

(24) Read at least 15 minutes daily in a Positive Mental Attitude book; you can’t recommend what you haven’t read.

(25) Dream Big- create a “dreamboard” with pictures and details of what you want and place it in a prominent position that you’ll see every day.

(26) Delegate whenever necessary.

(27) Read biographies of successful leaders. Learn how to be a “servant” leader.

(28) Call your team leaders/business partners daily and check in to see how you can be of service.

(29) Always be ready to ask, “How can I support you?”

(30) Reward yourself when you reach a goal…celebrate but don’t rest on your laurels, if you do you’ll lose momentum.

(31) Be aware that you’ll need to spend some money on growing your business -training tools, events, ie to educate yourself and your team. Others will duplicate what you do, not what you say.

(32) Challenge yourself constantly- if others can do it, you can too.

(33) Have so much fun that others will want to be a part of whatever it is that you do!

(34) Don’t procrastinate.

(35) Use the proven system that your company teaches; yet be open-minded about the changing marketplace and learning new things. Offline and online marketing methods work well together; they do not have to be exclusive of each other.

(36) Be the kind of person that you want to host/sponsor.

(37) Spend time and money on the things that will create you more time and money.

(38) You are the only one who can manage you- we all have the same amount of hours in a day, so use your time wisely. Do today what others won’t do, so tomorrow you can do what others can’t.

(39) Don’t advise anyone else to do what you’re not willing to do...it won’t take long to lose credibility or respect if they find out, and they will find out!

(40) You can’t teach what you don’t know. Be assertive in gaining knowledge.

Hooah!

In business, as in life, you can never just “tell” someone what they need to do. As the leader, you must first SHOW them that you’re money is where your mouth is…in other words, you can’t teach what you don’t know, what you yourself won’t do.

People often ask for some guidelines in how to do this; I’ve listed what I think are vital components to being a leader in the marketing industry- this is Part One.

Some basic fundamentals:

(1) Be a product of the product- use the service or products yourself in order to have a true testimony to share.

(2) Understand that people join people, not companies. They want to know that you are a person of integrity whom they can trust.

(3) Let everyone know what business you’re in- ie. if you’d just gotten your real estate license, who would you tell?

(4) Be teachable and coachable; then spend your time with those who are teachable and coachable. Remember, this is volunteer army of distributors- you are no one’s boss- they will qualify or disqualify themselves for your valuable experience and time.

(5) Leverage your time and efforts by being duplicatable…you want and need independent distributors on your team.

(6) Learn to motivate yourself- you can inspire others or be inspired by them, but motivation is a self-induced state of mind. Keep yourself strong and healthy.

(7) Edify others and they will edify you…. Edify yourself and be a bore.

(8) Spend time with the top money earners (who are the go-getters) in your company; learn from them and pass it on.

(9) Be persistent and consistent in your efforts- you wouldn’t work out 10 hours in one day and do nothing the other six if you were exercising.

(10) In regards to presentations and speeches, be bold, be brief and be gone! Leave them wanting more.

(11) Listen twice as much as you talk.

(12) Don’t be afraid to walk away or hang up the phone if the fit is not right for either you or your prospect. You’re looking for long-term business partners or customers.

(13) Belief is the key- in yourself, your company, your product, your team and your dream.

(14) Under promise and over-deliver.

(15) Let people know how much you appreciate them. Be sincere with praise.

(16) Understand that when someone says “no”, it’s no to the product or opportunity, not to you as a person. Sometimes “no” just means not right now.

(17) Leave everyone feeling better because they were around you- not better because you finally left!

(18) Be organized; know in 30 seconds where you can find the paperwork, information, tools, etc.

(19) Set short and long-term goals- post them where you’ll see them daily, carry them with you in your planner.

(20) Write out positive affirmations- say them out loud daily.

“Man was designed for accomplishment, engineered for success, and endowed with the seeds of greatness”.—–Zig Ziglar

There are thousands of home-based businesses to choose from, so how are you sure you’re making the right choice?

You must be a bulldog and get the information you need BEFORE you invest time and money. Here’s a few tips to think about:

1. Identify a company and product that appeals to you.

2. Take your time in making a right decision. Think long-term.

3. Research and ask a lot of questions before you invest. (Start-up costs, management, return policies,etc.)

4. Read all the literature about the company that you can.

5. Ask for names of others who are involved and speak with them directly. Ask for testimonies.

6. How long has the company been in business? Are they a publicly traded company? If so, what is their Dun & Bradstreet rating?

7. Look for financial stability.

8. How is money earned? How often is money paid out and how?

9. Attach yourself to an upline that is active and successful as a business builder.

10. Call the Better Business Bureau of the state where the home office is located; how has the company handled complaints?

11. If direct sales, check to see if they are a member of the Direct Selling Association.

NPros.com is the most comprehensive index of home based business opportunities on the internet.

Learn how to magnetically attract endless new reps and customers to you. Free 7 day boot camp shows you how. Just click on the icon below to start viewing videos.

In today’s economy, more and more folks are giving thought to starting a home-based business. Will you do “whatever it takes” to be successful? Truth is, you’ll work much harder for yourself than you ever did for someone else…

Ask yourself if you:

# have at least 10-20 hours per week to invest.

# have set clear, written, timed goals and have a strategic plan.

# are willing to teach others and help them progress.

# are willing to be teachable and coachable.

# will educate yourself on the company and the industry.

# are willing to invest money on tools as your business grows.

# are willing to invest in yourself- this means personal growth development; re-training your mind to think like a business owner; sales and business skills.

# sincerely like people and be enthusiastic about meeting them!

# have passion for the product/service that you are promoting.

# are comfortable and have trust in your prospective host/sponsor/business partner.

# choose to be a professional in dress, speech and manners.

# want to have some fun and enjoy what you are doing!

Don’t forget to check out our Resources Page for tools to help build your business!

Ready for a leap of faith?

If you’ve decided to proceed with your goal of starting your home-based business, congratulations!

You might want to ask yourself the following questions:

you?

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