Chapter Eight Blast!

This is by far my favorite chapter! In Chapter Eight, I bring readers into my very unbalanced world. I discuss how my career was simmering on the back-burner while I took more than enough time to partake in social extras. I share a funny dating story and how I thought my love life needed a fast-forward button. I even share how a good friend finally helped me to realize the importance of "getting naked." You see, the thing about life that I've learned is that we will never be able to totally avoid all the distractions that may bind us and bring our focus levels down, but we can learn to recognize and handle these things. That's what matters! When unproductive spells or restlessness threaten your goals, are you able to identify and manage the situation? Can you mix some down time in with your vigorous day schedule? If you can't, the weight of your world will eventually overtake you. Find ways to incorporate balance and make that system work for you. Make equilibrium a part of your daily regime because without it, you are basically walking a tight rope without a net. Do you have balance? How do you find time to do the things you need to do and the things you like to do? Share!

Chapter Seven Blast!

Being professional is so much more than the clothes we wear and the work we produce. It's about learning to master our moods, engaging in effective two-way communication and being accountable and corrective for our mistakes. It's about understanding that work is not the place to be embroiled in feuds or to create inappropriate social attachments. Basically, it's about acknowledging the fact that there is a time and a place for everything! As professionals, we play a huge role in ensuring that our work environments are productive and free-flowing. Being able to separate "work" and state is key in that objective. Now, the next time you see an opportunity to involve yourself in an emotion-fueled conversation or sweep a mistake under the rug, what will you do? The stage is set and the spotlight is on....so play your part!

Chapter Six Blast!

We all, at some point, have imagined ourselves enjoying great success and we should! All great things start in the mind. However, our minds sometimes cleverly omit the details associated with acquiring that success. The next time you picture yourself behind the desk of that chic office with that amazing view, also try to visualize a strategy to help you advance. Then, physically make your "power move." One effective way to make a power move is socializing. That's right - professional socializing or networking. Mixing and mingling with different people gives you the opportunity to spotlight your assets and acquire a myriad of resources. Be social savvy and understand that an occasional embarrassing moment or two (if you're like me) is possible, but not detrimental. Remember, there is value in relationship-building and there is power in networking. Now, make your move!

Chapter Five Blast!

While gazing at amazing wonders, like a sky scraping building or a beautiful sloping mountain, do you sometimes find yourself looking from the bottom up? Why? We do this so we can see the structure in all its splendor without missing a single detail. When dealing with life and career, we sometimes move in the same fashion - from the bottom up, and this type of movement is important in the grand scheme of things. It allows us to gather those necessary details that help shape us into successful, professionally appealing individuals. When you begin your quest, build on a sturdy foundation. Make plans and pride yourself on good work ethics and having a good attitude. Consistently apply positive actions and move to the next level of your career. Remember, whether you're looking for a job, changing careers or trying to get promoted, it's important to understand the reality of "Bottom Up." The bottom is not a place of shame, rather it's the beginning of something great and people will begin to take notice of the wonder that is YOU!

Chapter Four Blast!

The next time you find yourself standing in front of a mirror, ask yourself "Who am I?" Think you could answer? It's really not as easy as it sounds. The fact of the matter is we really don't know ourselves as well as we think. Consider this: What are your hobbies, your dreams, your passions? What do you find most relaxing? Who do you consider to be positive influences and motivators in your life? What events have helped shape your perspective about succeeding through adversity? These are some of the things that help us discover who we are and also bring balance, direction and a sense of purpose to our lives. Use the mirror to truly self-reflect and make work-related setbacks a thing of the past. Reaffirm your professional power. I challenge you to find the connection between passion and occupation. Then Organize, Analyze, Devise and Execute the perfect plan to meet your goals!

Chapter Three Blast!

Rejection, rejection - who likes it?! I know I don't, but I have to admit that I wouldn't be who I am without it! Would you believe that most of my confidence came from being told "No" or "I'll keep you in mind?" Well, it did! At first, I almost gave into the notion of not being good enough until I realized that "no" didn't mean "never." I realized that the only person who could discourage me from reaching my goal was ME, not the person holding my resume or the person flipping through my business proposal. For that very reason, learn to use each disappointing occurrence as motivation. Instead of giving up, let it push you to be better, to be stronger. Let it show you that you are good enough, but you choose greatness! Anytime you experience rejection, reflect on how you can be better. Plan your approach and go for it! Remember, falling down will never be the end of your story as long as you get back up!

Chapter Two Blast!

Having a "half-baked" plan is just as bad as not having a plan at all. As you may have read, I was definitely working towards something, but I wasn't quite sure what that "something" was or how I'd reach it. In the end, however, I learned that impetuousness is never the substitute for a well thought out course of action. Now that I look back, I can actually laugh at a few of my choices - like going on interviews with absolutely no idea of the job detail! What half-baked moments can you recall that make you smile or chuckle? Share!