Living Life In The Fast Lane
Life is full of twists and turns. With moving detours and hard stops, sometimes you don’t know which path to take. This can be a good thing. If you always knew what would happen, how can you appreciate everything that you have or the people in your lives? It is about the journey and the experience. When you hit the road, always be prepared and fasten your seatbelt.
Traffic Jams
Taking each day as it comes, seems pretty simple. In theory, this sounds very straightforward. However, life has a way of changing directions on us very quickly. From one moment to the next, you don’t know what traffic jams you will face. All things are moving steadily, and then in an instant everything shifts. These sudden signals are sometimes a way to remind you that you are not in control of everything. There will be things that you do not understand and lessons to be learned before proceeding. On the road of life, there will be bumps on the road; this is a part of a bigger picture to move you towards reaching your goals.
Stop Lights
It is easy to feel discouraged when life doesn’t go the way you expect. It can be very frustrating and confusing when it appears that nothing is moving and you are sitting at a “STOP” light. You make all sorts of plans, but very often this is the plan. Learning to “go with the flow” and “be still” is challenging, when you are trying to be productive and get from point A to B. Action must be taken to achieve all that you want in life and it seems like there is no time to slow down. This “holding pattern” doesn’t mean that your life is on hold forever, you may just need to slow down temporarily and wait for something better. One thing that we don’t often consider is we may not be ready for everything that we are chasing. You may need to learn a few more things or grow a bit more to move ahead. Timing is everything. So, slowing down is not a permanent situation. Also, it doesn’t mean that your dreams will never happen; you just need to stop and follow instructions.
Living Life In The Fast Lane
There is light at the end of the tunnel. It may not feel like it at times. When you are constantly struggling and trying to succeed, it may seem like there is no way out. Life forces us to evaluate our situations and provides signs when we are off course. It may be uncomfortable at first, but things will eventually work out. The beautiful thing about striving for your dreams, is although it may not come the way you’ve imagined, you can experience something even better. You don’t always have to move in the fast lane to reach your destination. You will arrive at the right place, at the right time. Take some time to enjoy the ride.
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
Gettin' More Bang For Your Buck
So, you’ve hit the ground running and got some strong leads. There have been several conference calls, lunch meetings, and dinners. Business is moving in a positive direction. Now, you are ready to close the deal and all is going great, and then “BOOM”, your prospect tells you that they have a better offer from a competitor. Okay, this just got interesting. The prospect wants you to lower your price in order to move forward. What do you do?
First, don’t panic! This is a very difficult situation that many businesses find themselves. Price wars are no fun and generally present an offense vs. defense disposition. Everybody is always looking for the best deal or the lowest price, but what are you willing to give up to beat the price?
In fact, the bottom line is it’s not always about the price. Sure, it’s great to keep extra money in your pocket, but you should also consider what you are getting. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “you get what you pay for” and very often this is true. Let’s talk shop!
Cashing In
When negotiating with tough customers, keep this in mind. You should never sacrifice quality or value. Your reputation is on the line and this is the best game changer. If you have a great track record with providing customers with a quality product and superior customer service, you are already “winning”; Cashing in on both exceptional value, along with competitive pricing, gets your customers more bang for their buck.
Closing Out
This is not an easy proposition to handle. Unfortunately, for many start ups and small businesses, this is a very challenging situation. The constant “haggling” back and forth and the need to not “lose a customer” can be very stressful. Especially when you are getting your business off the ground or rebranding an existing company, it can seem like you don’t have any options. You have the power to change the game. Stick to your guns and be very confident in what you bring to the table. A customer who sees the long term potential will respect your position.
All businesses must define and establish its own identity. This means that when faced in a price war, you must set the standard of how you will run your business. If a prospect or customer doesn’t support your company values or business model, you should also know when it’s time to walk away from a deal.
It would be great to be all things to everyone, but at the end of the day, you simply can’t. You must decide what type of prospect you want to do business with and identify what is the best solution to grow your company. The focus should be on building relationships with customers who are committed to a longtime partnership, not with those whom are only interested in quick fixes.
Quick fixes can be costly down the road, so the objective should always be an investment towards long-term growth and future sustainability. When your prospects appreciate the value of what you have to offer, you can effectively convert them into paying customers. However, if they are only interested in the “lowest price”, it’s time to make a clean break and close out.
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
5 WAYS TO LIVE LIFE ON PURPOSE
Living in a fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in a vicious cycle of life’s distractions.
From chasing the next dollar, to dropping kids off to school, and racing between personal and professional obligations, while making it all look easy.
Sometimes, you are moving so quickly that you don’t take the time to slow down and “smell the roses” or take inventory of what’s happening in your life. In order to remain loving, happy and healthy, there needs to be a balance. Choose to live your life on purpose and not just simply drift through daily tasks and routines.
Here are 5 ways to live your life on purpose:
1. Learn to say no!
There are many of you who may feel like you are letting people down if you say ”no” and assert yourself. Perhaps you are the person in your family or at work that everyone relies on. With this type of expectation, it can create pressure on you to overextend yourself. Learning to stand in your truth and honoring your feelings is your right and choice to do what is best for yourself.
2. Make time for YOU!
Taking care of others can be a very rewarding experience. The self-less act of giving is remarkable. However, there are times when that same care must be provided and given to you. It is acceptable to admit that you need a break or need help. This doesn’t mean you are selfish, but that you include self-care in your daily health and wellness plan. Whether it’s getting up early to meditate, going for a walk or heading to the gym, this quality time will re-energize you and prepare you for the day ahead. It is very important to make yourself a priority, as when you feel better, you will be better to those around you.
3. Set the clock
You may be thinking of an alarm clock that is set to wake you up for work or other activities. But, I am referring to a “mental clock”. Too often, we are putting too much time and energy where it isn’t deserved or surrounding ourselves around those who are mentally draining. Start deciding to put a time limit on those situations or people who are not adding value to your life. It is acceptable to recognize that there will be times when you will have to re-assess relationships in order to grow. Pay attention to life’s signals and decide when it’s time to move the clock forward.
4. Choose happy
Life is what you make it. You can either let it steer you in any direction or you will choose to live it the way you want. Now, there are moments where this may seem impossible or very difficult. It is all about your perspective. You can decide to let life’s setbacks keep you down or you can take each day as an opportunity to learn new things. It will not be easy, but you can decide at any time which way you want to go.
5. Getting past GO!
You now have the confidence to set boundaries and say “no” when it’s necessary. As you learn to make time for yourself, you will begin to re-evaluate all situations and things in your life and set the clock on those that don’t bring out the best in you. The choice to be happy becomes easier, while you develop guidelines to move your life to where you want to be.
Take each day as it comes and decide how you will handle it, don’t let it handle you. You can achieve great things, but only if you believe that it is possible. Go forward with excitement, energy and passion, and you will see amazing results. This new direction leads up to you going after what you want and living your life on purpose.
(Re-published article from Addicted2Success.com. Written by JUANITA Johnson.)*
GET IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT!
Life is what you make it. You will either be a passenger or the driver. There are no rules, except the ones you establish for yourself. You will need to create your own compass for the road ahead. The path isn’t always easy as there will be road blocks and detours towards your destination. However, when you have a map of where you are trying to go, you can stay focused until you get to where you want to be.
In order to navigate successfully, you will need to have a plan of action and understand the direction you are headed. The speed can be fast, but it is often times very slow. However, you must remain the course no matter how difficult the lane changes.
How Do I Get There?
You can’t be a driver of your life without an A-C-T-I-O-N plan.
A - Achieve
C – Commitment
T- Time
I – Innovate
O – Opportunity
N - Niche
Achieve: What is it that you want to do? What are you good at? What is your skill-set?
If you want to be successful, you must outline what it is you are trying to accomplish. Do you want to leave your full-time job? Do you want to live passionately? Are you interested in starting a business?
Once you can identify what it is you want, this will be the first step towards achieving your personal, professional, and financial goals.
Commitment: What are you willing to sacrifice to reach your goals? Are you committed to the hard work that is involved? Do you have what it takes?
We all have different talents that we excel in, but not many people will do what it takes to make their dreams a reality. Pursuing your goals will not be easy and you can sometimes feel discouraged. As a result, you may feel like giving up because you don’t see progress as quickly as you’d like or it doesn’t arrive the way you expect. Sometimes you have to be flexible. When changing or modifying your goals, this doesn’t mean you aren’t focused, it means that you are remaining open to new circumstances and committed to staying aligned to your vision.
Time: There are no short cuts. You are not in control of time or the speed in which things will happen. However, you can prepare yourself to be ready for opportunities. You can take advantage of time by consistently working hard and smart. Make time your “friend”, not your enemy because there are lessons on the journey. Keep striving to grow and get “game ready”.
Innovate: What do you have to offer the world? Is there a market for your product or service?
Innovation is the key to entrepreneurism. Follow your own path. You are important, so capitalize on your unique talents. Believe in yourself and you will reach the people who are interested in what you bring to the game. Create. Innovate. Demonstrate.
Opportunity: Your attitude can determine your success. Seize every moment as a stepping stone towards building your business. Although, circumstances may not always look the way you want, approach life with enthusiasm and find a positive approach to each situation. You never know which route will lead you on the right track.
Niche: As you implement each of the above principles: Achieve, Commitment, Time, Innovate, Opportunity, this leads to you establishing your own Niche. Building your own unique brand will create customer loyalty. Be confident in your product or service, and committed to bringing exceptional value. Customers who are interested in YOU, will be driven by you.
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
WEATHERING A STORM
Life is unpredictable and can sometimes feel like you are on a roller coaster. One minute you’re up, the next you’re down. With each day, you don't know what to expect, or what to do next. The constant shifts in direction can be uncomfortable and create a sense of anxiety or fear.
Preparing For The Storm
Challenges come into our lives to make us grow and to move. Move towards something different, or better. Many people don’t like change because it isn’t “safe”. But, growth doesn’t arise from comfort zones.
I’ve also learned that you can’t be who you are supposed to be, if you can’t move past who you were. We should be constantly striving to be our highest self and it is through hard times when we really get to see what we are made of. It is through each obstacle or redirection that our faith is tested. You have the power to decide at any time, who you want to be.
This may seem ideological when faced with the reality of uncertainty. But, if you take a look at what you have already achieved, you are reminded that you have been through tough times before and you are still here.
After The Storm
I want you to be encouraged that storms do pass. Storms create new energy, new opportunities, new perspectives, new ideas and a new appreciation for life.
Storms bring us back to what is truly important and takes us back to the natural order of things. The skies are more blue, the oceans are more clear and new beginnings are sparked with a beautiful rainbow.
Embrace change, as this is something you can’t control. You CAN control your outlook on life and move forward towards a new chance to be who you were created to be and RISE from a storm.
KEEP GOING!
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
5 SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS TIPS
Starting From the Bottom Up
Are you starting a new business? Do you want to take your business to the next level?
It doesn’t matter where you are in your career or the level of success for your company, we all can learn something new from each other. Businesses are constantly evolving and we grow by gaining valuable knowledge through collaboration.
Making Connections
I get so excited when I meet someone new, who shares the same drive, passion, and energy. Life is meant to be lived with vigor and excitement.
Business is based on relationships. Nobody became successful on their own. There is no one-size-fit-all formula, and there will be some roadblocks along the way. But, with the right tools and network, your business can grow exponentially. It takes strength, direction and drive to move to the next level. It won't be easy, but it is worth it.
Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- It Is Your Path, No One Can Walk It But YOU
- Take It One Day At A Time
- Ask Questions, Keep Learning
- Try Something New
- Never Give Up
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
HOW TO RAISE YOUR ONLINE IQ
As the number of online businesses grows, competition has increased. People are stepping away from traditional 9 to 5 roles, which mean the number of startups are developing and require support.
Identify Your Business New businesses must have a plan about what they are offering to the world. Is this a brick and mortar business, online or both? The business plan must include a detailed description around this and map what is the best approach to proceed.
Do The Research Before any action is taken, extensive research must be conducted. Businesses will need to have legal checks with regard to registration, trademarks, and copyrights. This starts the developing of the business identity and intellectual property. Also, understanding the competitive landscape is important to an effective strategy.
Getting Set Up Once you have identified your business, completed research on competitors, developed a plan, you should be ready to create your online profile. It is very important to establish your online visibility to grow your business. This means getting a domain name/hosting, website and marketing through various PR and social media channels.
Forward Launch
According to your business type, there are several marketing strategies that could be implemented to improve your profile and search engine rank. There are various sources and partnerships to increase visibility. There are revenue sharing programs, incentive partnerships and paid advertising. There are several offline and online strategies; each method is unique to your business to reach new customers. With a targeted plan, they can add exceptional value to new businesses and raise your online IQ.
If you are a start-up or a small business trying to get off the ground, we are here to help. Personify Enterprises is your one-stop resource for creative marketing and business solutions that gets results.
The goal is to create a winning strategy, be consistent, get new customers, generate sales, and raise your online I.Q.
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
GETTING TO THE FINISH LINE!
Recently, I was asked a very interesting question, “How Do You Stay Motivated”? I had not really thought about it that deeply before, but I was forced to consider the power of intention.
Life happens to everyone; there is no one-size-fit-all formula. I believe we all are doing the best we can, with the resources that are available to us. However, this doesn’t mean that we do not have control over our lives. It simply means that we can’t control everything that happens to us.
So, as I pondered over this intriguing question, that’s when it hit me. I stay motivated by passion.
When you are passionate about something, and you have a vision, this is the driving force to take action. Although, I didn’t always know the road I would end up on, it was during these times, I got to see my strength.
I have been tested many times, and although I have wanted to drop out of the race, I had to keep going until I reached the finish line.
Preparing For The Race
As I have become a bit wiser, I recognize that these events are all preparation and part of a “master” plan. Uncertainty and risks can inspire great change and innovation. As the saying goes, “no pain, no gain”. If you want something very badly, you have to give it all you’ve got. I have made certain sacrifices to lead an authentic life of passion and purpose.
Staying In Your Lane
You will fall down, and feel like giving up, but the greatest power is that you stay in your lane. I am motivated by something greater than myself. I have faith that life can truly be what you want, if you stay the course.
There have been some doubt, fear and tears, but I still keep moving forward.
Getting To The Finish Line
Even on my darkest days, I see light at the end of the tunnel. When I have felt like there is no one I can turn to, or the challenge was too hard, I have been reminded of how far I’ve already come. I think when you can look back and see what you have achieved, it is easier to remain hopeful. If you can see that you have conquered obstacles and hurdles before, you start to believe that anything is possible.
Where you are now, is not where you were yesterday and it isn’t where you will be tomorrow. Remember, you may not always win the race, but at least you were in the game.
KEEP GOING!
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
NAVIGATING THE ROAD AHEAD
When we are young, there usually is a plan mapped out for our lives. Most of the times, these are well-intentioned. However, there must come a point in your life, when you must choose your own direction.
Staying In Your Lane
As a creative person, I enjoy the energy and art of creating something new and being someplace different. From art, literature, to business, music, dance, and travel, I have always had a passion for movement and exploring the world. It is such a great feeling to meet people from all walks of life, with different perspectives, rhythms, cultures, and languages.
Now, I didn’t always understand what others called “restless energy” or wanderlust; this constant desire for change and travel. I thought there was something wrong with me. I couldn’t grasp why it seemed like I always had to keep moving around or couldn’t feel “settled”, as some people have indicated to me.
Until I figured out… that’s just a part of who I am.
What a relief!
Shifting Gears
So, what does this mean for YOU?
Getting ideas or suggestions from those around you can help greatly and provide a positive impact on your journey. I, too, have benefited from peers, mentors, and thought leaders. Their insights have been invaluable to my growth. However, there are times when turning outward can produce the opposite result. You don’t have to live a “pre-planned” life that someone else has designed for you.
We all have an internal roadmap that guides us, whether we want to listen or not. There are no right or wrong ways to reach your destination. It all depends on how quickly you accept that you have the power to get off at the exit at any time, if you don’t like the direction you are headed.
Road Rules
Once you have created a plan, you can start on the path to building the life you want. The only way to get where you are going is to begin. It may take a day, week, month, year or a few years, but you will ultimately end up where you need to be. Hold on, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for the ride! Next Exit…Your Future.
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
As a child, I was frequently told that I was “different”; I didn’t know if this statement was meant to be negative or positive.
I have always been a creative person and very active with several forms of art; singing, dancing, modeling, fashion, writing, and music. One would consider me a “Renaissance” woman.
However, as I matured, I discovered that being “different” was not really that bad at all. In fact, for me it was simply about being myself. I was not very interested in following other people’s path and like to dance to the beat of my own drum.
The Road Less Traveled
I have followed my intuition and embarked on the road less traveled, and have experienced things that I never thought I would. Traveling the world, living in different cities, starting my own business and more. Taking risks and trying new things has shown me that anything is possible.
When others are whispering in your ear, you should listen to your heart. We have an internal compass that is there to guide us, if we listen. Sometimes, the road looks very dark, but then you eventually see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Anything Is Possible
Following your bliss can be scary, as I have had anxiety and fear at times. But, I took that first step any way! Once you take that initial step, then things will start to come together. You should be open to receive instructions, even if you feel uncomfortable. It takes blood, sweat and tears to make your dreams happen.
You are capable of great things. Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone keep you down. The world is yours, go for it!
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
YOU DESERVE IT!
Getting Out Of Your Way
We are so often chasing after success or the idea of it, that many of you may not know what it actually looks like. Or if you even deserve it. Life can be very hard at times and we all should believe that we deserve the best that it has to offer. This doesn’t only mean material things, but spiritual, personal and professional wins.
The idea of success for many can seem very daunting; like an unattainable accomplishment. It is not something you can hold in your hand, but you can hold it your heart. You must believe that you are worthy of having everything that you want. It all starts with YOU!
Say YES
Have you heard that old phrase, “make lemonade out of lemons”? Well, this is the same idea. You may not always get everything that you want, but you can certainly believe that you deserve great things. Also, the road may not be smooth, but once you have made up your mind, there should be no stopping you.
You Deserve It
You are a winner! But, if you don’t recognize this for yourself, it will be difficult for others to accept this. Keep believing, keep reaching and know that you set the standards for your life and worth.
Life can be all that you’ve dreamed of, if you start right where you are. No matter how difficult, don’t delay. Just like the Loreal ad, “You are worth it”. So, get started now, as tomorrow is already too late. Express yourself, and be bold. You deserve it!
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*
PUTTING ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER!
I have been on an amazing journey; some of which I’ve planned and other instances that are outside of my control. This is the beauty of life, you can shape it the way you want.
Managing Twists and Turns
As I find myself moving through unchartered territory, I begin to realize how much I’ve grown through all of the twists and turns. It is amazing to see the progress and the fruits of my labor. It has not been easy, but what fun would that be? How would you know what you can do, if you didn’t have to work for it? How could you appreciate the sun, if there is no rain? Be encouraged and remember that change is the only constant thing in life.
In The Moment
With all of my personal and professional achievements, I am always thinking ahead. This is a good thing, but sometimes you have to be “in the moment”. I find it very hard at times because I am naturally energetic and really enjoy productivity. But, those quiet moments, are so very important and often fuels innovation and creativity.
Putting One Foot In Front Of the Other!
Often times, it may feel like you will not reach your goals. I am inspired by those that I like to call the “game changers”, who have demonstrated a strength, focus and dedication to getting what they want. When you are writing your own story, remember that everything takes time. Keep your head up and put one foot in front of the other towards your dreams.
(Written by JUANITA Johnson. All content have published copyrights)*