For many, many years I had programmed that getting ahead was associated with hard work. Every success I had early on in my career---and I’ve had many--- were often as a result of long hours and personal sacrifice. Fast forward to 12 years ago when I started becoming more conscious to Universal Wisdom and the notion that we literally create our own reality. The more responsible and accepting you become with that knowledge, rather then blaming or relying on outside influences, the easier life becomes. Most of the world was introduced to Law of Attraction through The Secret movie but it goes so far beyond that.
My claim to fame is in applying Universal Wisdom with real-world business strategy for accelerated results. I’ve created my own formula for success over the years and is ingrained in the work I do with clients. My goal with people is to align thoughts, circumstances, and inspired actions in such a way that you literally feel like you’re floating on a moving sidewalk towards your desired results rather then climbing up a steep hill. Can you FEEL the distinctions in this analogy? That’s what the shift feels like in business. Does my formula involve physical work? Absolutely but the experience overall is more joyful, inspired and abundant on many levels. The choice is yours of course. Here are some of pearls that stand out from my manifestation formula:
1.Get clarity on what you want first. Very simple concept but many people have trouble actually articulating what they want because they’re so accustomed to living by default. Suspend “the how will it happen”, or what it’s going to cost, or how long you think it would take. Define, in a perfect world, what you’d like to create in your business
2.Never use money as an end result. Money is a resource, it’s an energy in your business. So focus on something that evokes more emotion. Get into the feeling of what success would be like. Could be what you would accomplish with the money, who will be served, and so forth.
3. Commit to having what you want. Make a no matter what decision to having the success you desire and expect it to happen. Decide up front what’s negotiable and what’s not and then commit.
4. Schedule time for meditation and processing. The key is to allow solutions, people and resources to show up in your life without you having to work too hard at finding them. In order to do that, you’ll want to slow down or better yet--STOP--each day to express gratitude for what you have and set your intention on what’s to come. Situations will progress more smoothly for you as a result of this.
5.Be more compassionate with yourself. Self-judgment will always slow down this process. Infuse more positive, kinder language into your vocabulary. Using language like failure, bad, or stupid to describe something you’ve done only reinforces the negative. Learn to be as tolerant with yourself as you would with a 3 year old.
6.Seek out a model of what success looks like for you. Some people create vision boards but I recommend finding a business, a person or a situation that most closely represents what you’d like to achieve and learn as much as you can about that business or person.
7.Take inspired action. Don’t try to do everything at once. Organize your "chaos" and learn to work on just a few priority items at a time and you’ll notice you’re actually having bigger results. Continuous multi-tasking does not necessarily produce positive outcomes!
8. Never go at it alone. Constantly reflect on “what talent would best serve me now” and expect the most perfect people to show up. Allow others into your world to help you pick up the slack or lend their expertise. Ask, receive, ask, receive. Practice it, become accustomed to it and watch your results skyrocket.
Showing posts with label resources for entrepreneurs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label resources for entrepreneurs. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Strategies For Getting Early Traction For Your Products and Services
Like the adage “which came first, the chicken or the egg”, many entrepreneurs find themselves at a crossroads when trying to launch their product. To do it properly requires financial or other resources they may not have but in order to get those resources, they’re asked to “prove” their concept. One of my specialties is supporting people through this stage so that they have the opportunity to prove out the validity of their concept & get early “traction” (interest from buyers) while being very prudent with resources.
What’s important to note here is that before you invest lots of time and money in creating a product or service and then trying to sell it, it’s more prudent to SELL the concept before you actually create the product. In the past, I’ve gotten 5 and 6-figure commitments before I even produced a product. Obviously, your risks are greatly reduced if there is a nominal investment required to produce and distribute your product--- that’s why I love working online and with digital products.
Why do this? You’ll save yourself time and money as you avoid risks and produce a product that’s exactly what your market wants; establish credibility; attract investors and sponsors who can now see the validity of what you’re creating before it’s fully launched; and finally, have a market already established when it comes time to actually sell tangible products and services.
My complete list is quite extensive but here are some ways to get proof of concept and early traction:
1. Conduct some basic market research. Make sure you have really spoken to your customers and end users (if the two are different) to see if this is something they would like have and would purchase if available. Thoroughly document this research.
2. Build a list. Start creating a list of followers who would be potential customers when the time is right. The bigger the better and I recommend managing your growing list with one of the Autoresponder tools listed at http://intentionalincome.com
3. Network Within Your Industry. It’s much easier to garner the support of your industry if you’ve already established a good reputation. That’s why it’s imperative to show up and network at industry tradeshows; events where your peers and potential customers would be; media outlets; and online via social media activities.
4. Create and test a prototype as soon as possible. Depending on the resources you have available, develop a working prototype or sample of your vision as soon as possible. Even it’s just a graphical mockup. Having something tangible for people to look at will dramatically improve their interest.
5. Sell your “concept” as soon as possible. Before you commit to manufacturing your product, look at establishing your distribution channels first. Knowing where your product will sell will make a difference in how you package it. Also, it would be ideal if you can pre-sell your product (within legal parameters of course). I’ve gotten contracts and letters of interest for products prior to manufacturing. You can do the same for information products, books, events, etc.
6. Can you start small and scale up? You my not have the resources to be fully operational but is there some aspect of your business you can launch with limited resources, test and then expand? This will not only provide further validation but can also help fund other stages of growth.
7. Partner up with someone that has the resources you need. Perhaps consider licensing, private labeling or co-branding with another company to help you initially launch a product. Manufacturing and marketing could be your biggest expenses initially so find people who will cover that for you.
8. Get the media talking. Having the media pick up on your “story”, the circumstances surrounding your journey, or any tie in to current events really helps to establish credibility and interest from buyers and partners.
9. Gather testimonials. Paint the picture about how great your product or service is through the eyes of someone who has experienced it (or you). This will help make your Company more real to potential customers.
What’s important to note here is that before you invest lots of time and money in creating a product or service and then trying to sell it, it’s more prudent to SELL the concept before you actually create the product. In the past, I’ve gotten 5 and 6-figure commitments before I even produced a product. Obviously, your risks are greatly reduced if there is a nominal investment required to produce and distribute your product--- that’s why I love working online and with digital products.
Why do this? You’ll save yourself time and money as you avoid risks and produce a product that’s exactly what your market wants; establish credibility; attract investors and sponsors who can now see the validity of what you’re creating before it’s fully launched; and finally, have a market already established when it comes time to actually sell tangible products and services.
My complete list is quite extensive but here are some ways to get proof of concept and early traction:
1. Conduct some basic market research. Make sure you have really spoken to your customers and end users (if the two are different) to see if this is something they would like have and would purchase if available. Thoroughly document this research.
2. Build a list. Start creating a list of followers who would be potential customers when the time is right. The bigger the better and I recommend managing your growing list with one of the Autoresponder tools listed at http://intentionalincome.com
3. Network Within Your Industry. It’s much easier to garner the support of your industry if you’ve already established a good reputation. That’s why it’s imperative to show up and network at industry tradeshows; events where your peers and potential customers would be; media outlets; and online via social media activities.
4. Create and test a prototype as soon as possible. Depending on the resources you have available, develop a working prototype or sample of your vision as soon as possible. Even it’s just a graphical mockup. Having something tangible for people to look at will dramatically improve their interest.
5. Sell your “concept” as soon as possible. Before you commit to manufacturing your product, look at establishing your distribution channels first. Knowing where your product will sell will make a difference in how you package it. Also, it would be ideal if you can pre-sell your product (within legal parameters of course). I’ve gotten contracts and letters of interest for products prior to manufacturing. You can do the same for information products, books, events, etc.
6. Can you start small and scale up? You my not have the resources to be fully operational but is there some aspect of your business you can launch with limited resources, test and then expand? This will not only provide further validation but can also help fund other stages of growth.
7. Partner up with someone that has the resources you need. Perhaps consider licensing, private labeling or co-branding with another company to help you initially launch a product. Manufacturing and marketing could be your biggest expenses initially so find people who will cover that for you.
8. Get the media talking. Having the media pick up on your “story”, the circumstances surrounding your journey, or any tie in to current events really helps to establish credibility and interest from buyers and partners.
9. Gather testimonials. Paint the picture about how great your product or service is through the eyes of someone who has experienced it (or you). This will help make your Company more real to potential customers.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Strategies For Staying Focused
Many years ago business mentor Mitch Santell said to me “Maria, lots of people are running their businesses like they’re folding deck chairs on the sinking Titanic”. I’ve never forgotten that and quite often as I’m making decisions to do something I stop to ask myself “am I just folding deck chairs”? There’s so much pressure to work harder to stay ahead and to try different things to get new results or create new revenue. Many others are taking on more and more responsibilities as they try to “do it all” in their business hoping that something will payoff. The fact of the matter is, without FOCUS, it’s easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of your business and ultimately feeling that you’re not really progressing. Here are some strategies for maintaining focus and staying on a clear path to success:
1. Work from a master plan. I enjoy life more when I live in the present moment at all times but I’m always working from a master plan. With my plan of action laid out for me, the activities I’m inspired to take in that present moment are continually leading me towards my long term objectives because I took the time to “pre-program” what those objectives are. I know in a moment’s notice whether or not I’m deviating from my long term goals.
2. Focus on fewer priority items. Working from a huge TO-DO list that you create is not as productive as you may think. It keeps you busy but not feeling very accomplished for the most part. I suggest establishing 1-2 very clear objectives for the month that feed into your long term goals. This helps you create simpler daily to-do lists that actually get completed. It’s easier to stay focused on fewer items and you’ll experience more personal satisfaction as you have more completions instead of unfinished lists each day.
3. Segment your workday. This is one of the best productivity lessons I learned more than 10 years ago. My day is broken into 2 hour segments for the most part and the segments include sales/marketing, operations (usually delegating), creative, ME, and follow up (or long term planning). I stay focused yet touch all aspects of my business and the day flies.
4. Do the things you enjoy doing, delegate the rest. If you have trouble focusing on the task at hand, it could very well be you just don’t enjoy doing it or don’t have an expertise for it. Stop faking it and start delegating ASAP. Give yourself permission to take it off your plate so you can focus on the things you’re good at.
5. Create a system for accountability. If you’re missing your deadlines, consider a mandatory donation to your favorite charity or some other activity that will help condition you to stay on track. Also consider having others hold you to your word. Having to report in to someone on your progress is incentive enough to stay focused.
6. Limit distractions. You my not be able to stay focused simply because you’re too distracted chasing bright shiny balls. That’s what I call the “opportunities” that we have trouble passing up yet in the end steer us further from our path. Learn to say NO, at least for a limited time, if you’re really committed to achieving your primary goals. You won’t miss out. There will be another similar opportunity right around the corner that’s just perfect for you.
7. Are you “folding deck chairs”? Ask yourself that each time you start something new. Make sure the activities you are pursuing are in your best interest and really moving you toward achieving your goals. Learn to let go immediately of the busy-ness and move into more productive activities. Staying busy yet not quite productive could be you “hiding out” from success.
8. Take a break. When you’re having trouble focusing, working longer hours won’t make the situation better. Taking time to regularly refresh and rejuvenate as well as natural supplements that help with mental clarity will work wonders. I carve out time each day for gym, nap, pampering and/or meditation and schedule some down time on the weekend--- no matter how much work I have on my plate.
1. Work from a master plan. I enjoy life more when I live in the present moment at all times but I’m always working from a master plan. With my plan of action laid out for me, the activities I’m inspired to take in that present moment are continually leading me towards my long term objectives because I took the time to “pre-program” what those objectives are. I know in a moment’s notice whether or not I’m deviating from my long term goals.
2. Focus on fewer priority items. Working from a huge TO-DO list that you create is not as productive as you may think. It keeps you busy but not feeling very accomplished for the most part. I suggest establishing 1-2 very clear objectives for the month that feed into your long term goals. This helps you create simpler daily to-do lists that actually get completed. It’s easier to stay focused on fewer items and you’ll experience more personal satisfaction as you have more completions instead of unfinished lists each day.
3. Segment your workday. This is one of the best productivity lessons I learned more than 10 years ago. My day is broken into 2 hour segments for the most part and the segments include sales/marketing, operations (usually delegating), creative, ME, and follow up (or long term planning). I stay focused yet touch all aspects of my business and the day flies.
4. Do the things you enjoy doing, delegate the rest. If you have trouble focusing on the task at hand, it could very well be you just don’t enjoy doing it or don’t have an expertise for it. Stop faking it and start delegating ASAP. Give yourself permission to take it off your plate so you can focus on the things you’re good at.
5. Create a system for accountability. If you’re missing your deadlines, consider a mandatory donation to your favorite charity or some other activity that will help condition you to stay on track. Also consider having others hold you to your word. Having to report in to someone on your progress is incentive enough to stay focused.
6. Limit distractions. You my not be able to stay focused simply because you’re too distracted chasing bright shiny balls. That’s what I call the “opportunities” that we have trouble passing up yet in the end steer us further from our path. Learn to say NO, at least for a limited time, if you’re really committed to achieving your primary goals. You won’t miss out. There will be another similar opportunity right around the corner that’s just perfect for you.
7. Are you “folding deck chairs”? Ask yourself that each time you start something new. Make sure the activities you are pursuing are in your best interest and really moving you toward achieving your goals. Learn to let go immediately of the busy-ness and move into more productive activities. Staying busy yet not quite productive could be you “hiding out” from success.
8. Take a break. When you’re having trouble focusing, working longer hours won’t make the situation better. Taking time to regularly refresh and rejuvenate as well as natural supplements that help with mental clarity will work wonders. I carve out time each day for gym, nap, pampering and/or meditation and schedule some down time on the weekend--- no matter how much work I have on my plate.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Action Manifestor: Just Let Go
Lots of drastic changes being portrayed in the media and now being felt by us all. Business changing, markets changing, values, etc. Not that it's good or bad--- but it does feel like our world is changing so rapidly, it’s difficult to keep up. Routines are upset, rules are changing, not getting the same results from familiar strategies. One woman I know has been so anxious by constant changes at work she confessed to having a need to use the same bathroom stall each and every visit to the ladies room just to maintain some sense of familiarity and routine. If you're not comfortable with change, the fear of loss that is associated with change can creep up unbeknownst to you and cause you to hold on even tighter to your "realities", even if they no longer make sense. Take note: Are you holding on to material possessions that create clutter but not serve a useful purpose for you anymore? Have relationships that no longer support you? Clients who are draining and you no longer have a desire to serve but you continue to do so anyway? Watching your sales dwindle but not making the changes really necessary to turn it all around?
Become keenly aware of these situations and start giving yourself permission to begin letting go. The fear is an illusion and cannot harm you. The moment you let go, you'll allow more abundance will step in to fill the void not to mention the sense of peace and relief you'll experience by letting go of an uncomfortable situation that really isn’t serving you.
For more Action Manifestor tips, subscribe to my ezine at http://mariasimone.com
Become keenly aware of these situations and start giving yourself permission to begin letting go. The fear is an illusion and cannot harm you. The moment you let go, you'll allow more abundance will step in to fill the void not to mention the sense of peace and relief you'll experience by letting go of an uncomfortable situation that really isn’t serving you.
For more Action Manifestor tips, subscribe to my ezine at http://mariasimone.com
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Jump on the Karma Wagon
Yes, it's true... http://the15minutementor.com is LIVE.
Sign in as a Mentor but you can also make a request of the group if you have a question related to...
Creative
Customer Acquisition/Retention
Distribution Channels
Finance
Management/People
Marketing
Sales
Start-up
...the list of categories goes on.
Sign in and spread the word. It's completely FR*EE.
Just play nice and keep the vibration high!
You don't ever want to get HIT by the Karma wagon, you want to RIDE it.
To your success!
Maria Simone
http://passion2prosperitybook.com
...Your economic stimulus package
Sign in as a Mentor but you can also make a request of the group if you have a question related to...
Creative
Customer Acquisition/Retention
Distribution Channels
Finance
Management/People
Marketing
Sales
Start-up
...the list of categories goes on.
Sign in and spread the word. It's completely FR*EE.
Just play nice and keep the vibration high!
You don't ever want to get HIT by the Karma wagon, you want to RIDE it.
To your success!
Maria Simone
http://passion2prosperitybook.com
...Your economic stimulus package
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