The December Edition...go ahead Create Your Year...

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really focused on helping small business owners succeed in these exciting times we're in. It's time for community, working together, and making a difference...kind of what this newsletter/blog is all about.


What do you want to create in 2009?

Welcome to this months posting and newsletter. The picture to your left is titled, "If these walls could talk". My question to you is...what would they say?

As we close out 2008 and head into 2009 there is a sense of optimism, closure, fear, excitement, the unknown all wrapped into the time of year and more so this given the times we are in now.

So if the walls could talk, what would they say about how you're going to live life in 2009? Are you going to play full out? Give it all you got? Leave it on the field?

What would you want the walls to say about you in one years time?

Personally, I am going for it. I don't care any more about the economy (well I do and don't...but that's another story for another day)...I don't care about other people judging me, I don't care if I have total support of my family...I am living my best life, my highest life for me in 2009.

Is anyone else on board?

Here is the game plan.

1) Get clear on your true value and be confident in your abilities. I am not saying become an ego maniac about your skill sets and abilities but be confident that you can do what you do and do it well. Walk with pride and an inner knowing that you can do it and if you can't you'll learn, you'll be open to coaching and you'll be a team player. What are you're true gifts? What are your strengths? What do you do better than anyone else? What do you love to do...and would even if you didn't get paid?

Know your value. Get clear and confident about your best abilities and begin to communicate and market them effectively.

2) Develop an action plan and re-work your business plan. Once you get clear on what you bring to the table in terms of talents and skills and value, you want to position yourself with companies, people and organizations that can benefit from them. Personally I intend to re-chart my course this year and be more "Niche" focused in who I target. I don't know about you, but spray marketing (telling everyone) is really tiring. Having a clear target segment, knowing them and talking their language is where it's at. Shotgun, Spaghetti marketing doesn't work. It's a long road to take. Figure out who you're ideal client is. What their issues, concerns and challenges are and get clear as to how you bring value to them and you have a good starting point for doing business. So...create your plan, re-visit your goals, your business plan...bottom line is chart your most safest, optimal route towards your living your best life.

3) Have a supporting cast around you. I have realized this past quarter that I can no longer do what I do alone. I need a mastermind team, a mentor, a coach and someone to help me sell. If you're a solo-entrepreneur, who can you hire, what help do you need, who can take on the tasks that don't serve you? In my mastermind team meeting this past weekend, I have established a very cool direction and it's now begun to take shape. It means some re-branding but it's totally cool. My supporting mastermind team, has me focused, excited and guess what?...they are there to support me in my business. Be sure to create some support in your business or life. Remember even Moses had his brother Aaron to bounce ideas off of...don't quote me, but if it wasn't for Aaron, the Jewish people would have been in the desert for another 10 years...but Aaron said, "No Moses...turn left, turn left man"!!!


4) Don't worry, pray. How many of you have been focusing on what you don't have? Or are in a state of fear about the economy, the future...all that. Reverend Michael Beckwith (from the Secret and the Moses Code documentaries and Agape Ministries in California) states we are in a time of "Prayervolution" a time when prayer leads to a new spiritual evolution. You can't control what you can't control, but you can control what you think and you can take actions towards solving the worry points in your life. Pray, focus, meditate, visualize...however you do it...just do it.

5) Trust. My good friend Jennifer Hough of the Vital You (www.thevitalyou.com) says in her work as a facilitator and awesome coach, "The Universe has your back". Meaning the universe, god, or whatever you want to call it...has your best interests at stake. You have to have faith and trust all will be taken care of. As Jennifer so aptly puts it and I love her for this line, "In a Universe that makes Milky ways and galaxy's and made all that there is (I am paraphrasing) and made you, then you can count on it to come through" It's brilliant stuff and a needed way to think. So trust, everything is as it should be "All is well", as personal development expert Louise Hay would say. Or finally, "Get over it" as Jennifer would suggest.

6) Think BIG! Set big goals this year. Do what you've dreamed, stop buying into the darkness, the fear, the naysayers. Cut them out. As Nelson Mandella once said, "Who are you to play small, you're hear to glorify G-d" (or the universe) and be all you can. Take on living your wildest dreams. Lately, I have been setting the intention for how my day will go in my day-timer...and low and behold if it's not coming true. Last week for example I wrote "Get two new clients" and it happened. Friday, I led a training session and I wrote in my day-timer, "It's going to be an awesome day of learning" and it was!!! Think Big, train your mind to have amazing ideas and juicy thoughts and for gosh sakes write it down. It becomes real then!

7) Have balance and self love. No matter what happens take care of yourself. Exercise, eat well, take your vitamins and accept failures as learning lessons. If you don't take care of you...who will? We have to take "Responsibility" and "Care for the self" now more than ever. Incorporate self-care in your life, every day.


8) Have an attitude of gratitude. Act like whatever you want in your life has already come through. Express gratitude everyday for all the good things in your life. As my good friend Shawn Shepheard says, "Yes the guy in front of you on the road, just cut you off, but instead of getting even or angry, have an attitude of gratitude in that moment". Be thankful you didn't crash, that you're well, that your family loves you, that all is good in your life, that you have a place to go too on your drive...

Gratitude gets you more of what you want...so be thankful for all of the good things and trust me there are lots of good things...

I am going to leave you with a magical prayer that I read almost every day. It's a prayer that if you read every day it will change your life. It's called the Prayer of Jabez. It will open doors and broaden your horizons. If you want grab the book at a bookstore. Call my good friend Shelly, she owns an independent bookstore called Blue Heron Books in Uxbridge and she would love the business plus you don't have to go there you can order the book by phone from her. It's called the Pray of Jabez by Bruce Wilkinson. Shelly can be reached at 905-852-4282 and she will order it in for you.

Here is the prayer, read it every day and watch how your life will unfold:

Oh that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory, that your hand might be with me and that you would keep me from harm that it may not pain me.


Read that every day and watch will unfold in your life.

I want to invite you to 3 events:

One is the Durham Small Business Meditation Project...happening on December 11th at Essential Communications at 101 Dundas St. W. (at Brock in Whitby) at 6:30-8 pm.

The other is the World Healing meditation on December 31st at 6:30 am until 8 am at the St. Lawrence Centre at King and Jarvis St. (Pay by donation) and this is not an event I am running, I am just letting you know...it's a beautiful to close a year and begin a new. Log onto http://www.peace-the-21st.org/dec31/ to learn more

Also on January 9th at the Business Advisory Centre Durham. I am co-facilitating "Create your year" from 9:30-12:30 and it costs $49.00 (plus GST) to get in. I would love you to come out and get ready to create your most amazing year yet.


I want to wish you a wonderful, peaceful, holiday season...with health, fun, and abundance in 2009.

David Cohen The BIG IDEAS GUY -"BIG"


P.S. I have embedded a video this month...an interview with Bruce Wilkinson on his other book (The Dream Giver) a follow up to his Prayer of Jabez. Plus a Gospel Version of the Prayer o Jabez...

In Joy!

David

Take time out to connect

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.

GET CONNECTED:





This months theme is about connecting. Let's face it we're all going through our stuff these days about the stock market crisis and the global financial crisis. It tends to bring up deep rooted fears, feelings of insecurity, fear about abandonment, loss, lack, not being good enough, you name it and our "stuff" is coming up. So if that's the case then, then be sure to take extra time for those you work with or do business with.

You're not alone now, others are going through change, fear, worry, doubt and are wondering about life and it's meaning.

So now more than ever is a good time to connect to those you do business with or work with. Plan a meeting, a coffee, a lunch if you're feeling extravagant, but the bottom line is to connect.

I find this time of year...near year end a great time to meet clients and talk about plans for 2009.

Find out what motivates your client, what drives them, what they think about, get to know them on a deeper more meaningful level so that when spending and the economy bounces back (and it will) you have vastly improved the relationships you have with your clients. In fact by taking the time now to get to know them, and help them I guarantee that when things do bounce back in the marketplace you'll be the first place they buy from.

I was attending prayer services this morning and saw a good friend and associate. Sure enough his business is going through challenges and life isn't all that great for him just now. So I put my arm around him and said, I could relate, business was a bit more challenging for me too. I let him know that if ever he wanted to chat, go for coffee and just connect, that I am all ears.

We left knowing that our bond is closer and can become more so. You see...in tough times, people need to connect more, have a sense of closeness, community, to be able to count on our fellow man and woman.

So if you are not connecting to those business colleagues that matter, you may be missing the boat. But connect out of sincerity, out of a sense of love and compassion to your clients. They say what you give comes back, so if you can give without expectation of receiving back immediate dividends then you're business has a built in "insurance" plan for the future.

You can insure that the good things you do for your clients and team you work with will come back tenfold later on.

I remember during the SARS crisis that hit Toronto my coaching business had pretty well gone out the door. No one was spending. To make matters worse, the 2nd Gulf War had just started and people in Toronto were just a little too panicky.

When discussing my business with my mentor back then, he suggested I offer my services for free. This way I could stay in front of my clients, keep in action and also be remembered as guy who went that extra mile.

You know, it worked. I did free coaching. It didn't pay off right away, but it did later on after the effects of SARS had disappeared.

My clients were happy, they stayed with me and even commented that it was nice to get the coaching at a time that they too were facing challenges.

You see, when it comes down to it...what matters isn't the money you make, but the lives you impact. That's the real currency that no one talks about on the news. It's the lives you touch, it's the positive feelings you generate. Studies show that us human beings buy goods and services base on feeling and emotion. Wouldn't it behoove you to sell that way? To generate good vibes and feelings for your team at work or the clients you serve?

I was just at a friends wedding too this past weekend...and was there with my High School buddies...and we felt a connection, a closeness and a sense of all was right in the world...Why? Well...because we were together, celebrating, honouring our friendships and honouring the newly married couple.

That is what life is all about. It's about experiencing the "Sacred" special moments. If you don't think that that is true for your clients, then I have news for you...take time out to ask them and check in on them. Generate new conversations, plan for 2009, link them up with someone else that can benefit from what they do. Plan to help a charity together at Christmas time...but just get "Connected" to your clients...and watch the magic happen in your business.


Take the slow time perhaps in your business to now connect more profoundly with your clients. Work to get close to your team at work or your clients and be darn sure, to give back now, because it will pay off down the road. It's when the economy does bounce back that your business will soar.

It's about positioning too. Ask yourself how you want to be viewed in the marketplace? What's the legacy you want to be known for in your life and in your business? How high do you want to go?

Then get in action and give back your time, your sense of compassion and understanding to your clients.

If you have any comments on this post or want coaching or to brainstorm on some ideas, I personally will offer you 30 minutes free coaching. It will be a phone session only, but it's my gift to you. Just email me for your free session at thecoach@smallbusinessbigideas.com


All the best.

David

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.


Managing in turbulent times:


You'd have to be living under a rock to not be affected by the recent week that was on the markets. Bay St. in Canada and Wall Street in the U.S. both were rocked in a steady stream of downturns this week and the money supply is beginning to get a bit tighter. The "Economy" is on the minds of every politician north and south of the 49th parallel.

We all know that there is uncertainty in the market place and in our own businesses. Personally, I have been questioning some of the business moves I have taken on and if it's worth it or not. Am I on the right track? Why aren't those tele-classes working, how can I just get 3 more advertisers on the show for our new season? Why is more money going out and than in? I don't think I am alone in these thoughts...Have I miscalculated the marketplace? Why aren't the ideas and services I have created in my business not yielding results?

Am I off? Do I give up? Go get a job?

Well here's the deal. First of all I think in this market place you've got to really be flexible. Be prepared to change or shift gears at any moment. If it's not working and it's not feeling right then give it up and move onto another aspect of the business. Life should not be about the struggle, it is not about doing things and not getting the results. It's not about banging your head against the wall and having a sore head and little else to show for your efforts.

So be prepared to change. Don't get too wrapped up in what you're doing from an emotional point of view and give up the struggle. Shift gears, step away or go for a walk in the park as a former boss of mine once advised.

In my weekend walk with my friend Bob, (we go for weekly walks and then talk about life or business after) we were discussing the notion of him working with former CEO's in his accounting practice and how they are reluctant to change and do something new because they expect the secretary, the expense account, the luxuries of how it was...so I told Bob...I got one piece of advice for these ex-CEO's and that was..."Get on with it"!!!

You have to let go, be flexible and move forward big time...no fear here!

The next key to managing in turbulent times is to really tune out the news. I mean it. Watching the 11 am news is akin to you watching a dreadful horror flick just before bed. I don't know about you but when I watch a horror film I can't sleep after, because my imagination runs wild and yes...what if a boogie man comes to attack me in the middle of the night?

You should have seen me after seeing the Shining with Jack Nicholson, I slept with the lights on that night...

Tune out the news and tune into positive messages. Meditation CD's, good news reports or read the bible or other religious teachings that lift your spirit up. Read positive books, look at others who live successful lives, have someone or something that inspires you.

In these times of uncertainty don't take things personally, it's funky for everyone in this day and age, so it's important to have an attitude of compassion and forgiveness. You don't know what's going on for people these days...one of my colleagues lost over $20,000 in net worth on the stock market decline...I got an unexpected bill for my business for $500.00. So who's having a worse day? One day like that can just put your day into a tailspin. Have compassion on people in your life and as Stephen Covey would say. Seek to understand before seeking to be understood.

Another key step in managing in tougher unstable times is to hold the vision. Be the vision, continue to to do the actions and you will have the success you seek. Hold that vision, take time to meditate on it each day...but hold that vision.

So where are we at? We've talked about being flexible in your business, tuning out the news, putting positive messages into your mind, holding the vision, being compassionate and understanding of others, but there is something else that matters when managing in turbulent times and that's about doing what brings you joy.

Do the work that brings you joy. Do things with passion and love and I promise you your businesses and life will always work out. No one can take that away from you. Do what brings you joy. Let go of what brings you down. Because if you're not "In-Joy" than life will surely be a drag and it's already a bit of a challenge these days isn't it? You deserve to be in joy...so enjoy your life. You got one go around you might as well have fun!

Some other aspects to consider when managing in challenging times is to surround yourself with good people. Not that you want "Yes" men or women in your life, but you want people who see it as it is but can see possibility in what you're doing. An angle you haven't thought of or an opportunity that's around the bend or a contact for you to call on. But surround yourself with positive people.

Lastly, one other key to managing in challenging times is to trust. Trust that all will work out and whatever is going on around us is just what needs to have happen. Remember the Chinese expression, "out of chaos comes opportunity" so the change, the turbulence we're all going through is an opportunity to change, to shift, to manage more effectively, to let go of what's not working and focus on the things that matter most and bring you more joy.

So go get 'em this quarter. Keep at it, keep reaching and don't give up. Because if you give up...then the bad guys win...and we don't want that do we?

Here are some website links to help you stay positive and in the flow...plus I have embedded a really uplifting video...again there is a sponsored message at the end of it...and we don't know this company to recommend them...but the message is poignant and powerful.

WEBSITES:

www.postivenews.net

http://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/


All the very best to you. Our next newsletter will be in December so stay well until then!


David Cohen
Learning, coaching, radio
The Place where Small Business Comes
To learn, grow and succeed
This is that place, this is your home.
www.smallbusinessbigideas.com

Get help along the way

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.

Sometimes you need help along the way...don't be afraid to get it...

August 1st.

This spring and summer has been a great time of change for a lot of us. I mean look at how some of economic and social realities are forcing us to change and adapt. What I think is happening is that these socio-economic factors are really getting in touch with what matters most and really giving us a choice to having absolute focus on the areas in our life that impact us most.

But you know...change doesn't happen without help along the way.

I mentioned in the May newsletter about some personal change I was going through. One was taking weight off, two was re-configuring my business plan and concepts and three was personally adapting to those socio-economic conditions that we're all facing it seems these days.

So in taking weight off and so far I am down 20 pounds...thanks to some dedicated workouts with my personal trainer Chris Bennett at Good Life Fitness...Chris has coached me and pushed me to a point where I am jogging around the gym in between my sets of weights...he even makes me do squats...and I hate squats!

My good friends Kim Ades and Jacqui Markowitz and new colleagues Pauline and Esther helped me get my head on straight around my body, and weight loss at Frame of Mind Coaching...and now Louis from Isagenix...Louis introduced me to this wild cleanse program that has immediate results on weight loss and vitality. I am on this earth shattering cleanse program and it's working wonderfully. The energy is back, the vitality and the passion...all necessary to run a business these days...

The business is starting to take shape too as the re-branding and new website are oh so close to completion. Help from Sue Sutcliffe at A Web that works and Carol Ann Walker at the Business Advisory Centre along the way has me taking the business into a new and exciting direction.

I have been surrounded by great people. Helping me along my journey.

Now study and look at the picture above...because that's us sometimes...we are like little kids needing a guiding hand and when times are good we are the adult...leading the way. The sage, the spiritual warrior...knowing and guiding us along the path.

We all need help...and as entrepreneurs our downfall is that we don't ask for it. Out of shame maybe? Or God forbid...someone will think we're weak and not successful. Or sometimes our belief is you can't hire someone or my staff can't do it...I will do it myself!!!

I say park those stories and get some help. Train your staff to do what you do. Take on the tasks you like in your business and hand the ones you don't enjoy to someone else...oh and get the help you need...Ask...ask...ask...get the help along the way.

You know...I mentioned I got coaching help from Kim and Jacqui at Frame of mind coaching around my weight loss issues...The program that Kim and Jacqui designed included weekly coaching calls and journaling on a daily basis. Journaling your thoughts and feelings around a certain weekly discussion point. Well in week 7 of our 10 week program we had to journal about "Gratitude" and I wrote about a time in my life when I had lost my father. I was 10.

He died suddenly...the abruptness of it all left my entire family in shock, depression and wonderment...

It left me without a dad...totally not cool...and I felt like an outcast at school and in life...I mean crap eh? I was the only 10 year old at school without a dad...

So in writing about gratitude during my 10 week coaching calls with Kim and Jacqui at Frame of Mind Coaching...Kim reviewed my journal and asked me a critical question about this time in my life...

She asked...about who my mentors were after my father passed on? At first I thought who were they...I wasn't sure. At first thought I thought no one was a mentor...It wasn't my uncles or those closer to me...but then as I wrote my response it became apparent that the people you'd think would be your mentors weren't but my cousinsm my brother-in-law and a CFL football player...were my mentors. You know it's odd...but when you're not looking life supports you totally.

Sometimes if you expect people to show up they don't...and that clouds those that do show up and help you along the way.

So you've got to lose the expectations you have about and around people and just let life unfold...and the lesson I got in this time in my life was that life totally supported me.

I am going to share something very personal with you about that time in my life when I lost my father and had to reflect back on who my male mentors were...I was in tears when I wrote this...but I feel confident to share the important lessons of my own journey and hopefully they help you in yours.

Part of the "Frame of mind" coaching program involves journaling...it's vital to the outcomes of the program and I found it very cathartic in fact.

I thought I would share what I wrote about my past, my childhood, the lessons learned, the gratitude and the people in my life that influenced me. I hope I do their lives justice in mine now.

Before I leave you now and let you read the posting I made on June 30th in that journaling exercise. I want you to get some core lessons this month.

1. Ask for help if you need it in business.

2. Lose your expectations of others.

3. Trust that the universe is taking care of you at all times.

4. Know that the best people will show up if you allow them too...

5. Have an attitude of gratitude and

6. That you've got to get out of the way, let your thoughts, worries and fears vanish and choose positive ones!


All the best and have a great summer!

David

Here is my post for June 30th for the Frame of Mind Coaching Program I was on...

Little Davey is home with the flu today...wow...achy, tired, no energy, stiff and sore...oh man...I hate the flu...but intrinsically...maybe it's just time to rest up a little...and life will be ok when I crave "rice pudding" ...I haven't eaten anything today and don't feel like it...but you know I have turned that corner towards health and wellness when I have rice pudding...lol...I am such a suck eh? Did I say I want my mommy?

Ok...Kim...I had no role model from 10-17. My family was small. My dad's two brothers didn't have kids and my mom's brother lives in England. My uncles were all older...and not that good at getting close. I did have a cousins in Montreal...Irving and he and my other cousin Leon ...were nice to me...and so was Morry Krantzberg in Montreal. Morry was a family friend who fixed my mom and dad up in England...he started Kiddie Kobler shoe stores. I would work there when I visited as a kid and got Greb Kodiaks (work boots) and Adida Rom's (I was a slave to fashion can't ya tell)?

As a kid I went to Montreal a lot to visit my cousins and hang. Morry, Leon, Irving and Mickey and Moe all had kids my age that I would hang with. We had brilliant games of road hockey and street football.

It was at Mickey and Moe's that I saw my first ever Playboy magazine...going to Montreal from Ottawa had such a high to it...there was a vibe in Montreal...action, business, big buildings...great radio stations like CKGM and CHOM-FM. (I liked radio even then). Plus I would get to see the Montreal Expo's play or the Canadians at the Forum.

My family in Montreal and my little cousins my age were all awesome. But in Ottawa I didn't really have someone who stepped in. I also felt awkward still not having a dad. I had to go home after those great visits to Montreal and back to the reality of being that outsider kid again.

In fact...I even had a "Big Brother" and he lasted a short time due to he and his wife going through a divorce...but he was a nice guy.

I was really left to my own devices. I thank God...I had "Zaikel" ...that's Yiddish for common sense and direction...although I under achieved in school until I took Radio/TV journalism...(then I over achieved...yay me)...

But at 17 my sister Jan who lives in Toronto married the nicest guy. A doctor no less...he taught me the importance of being a mensch and being a solid guy. He's never missed a day of work, has total commitment to his family and is a fun, loving man. Jerome Lyons is his full name...he's not always a saint...but boy he's the one that's impacted me the most.

His practice is at Warden and Ellesmere...and he works hard...now later in his life he's a golf nut and his best friend Lorne Rubenstein is the golf writer in the Globe and Mail. Jerome is just one good guy. He was my best man at my wedding, he was there when my oldest sister passed away, he was there when I lived there after my marriage broke up...he was there to go to a baseball game with, he and my sister always host family events at their house, be it religious or celebrations and holidays. My niece and niece got married there, I had my 40th birthday celebration there a their home, his brother Carl had his 60th birthday their...Jerome and my sister Jan are just so generous.

Yeah...do they have some issues..yes...but when you can look past that...they shine like diamonds.

So I am grateful to them and now that I think of it my cousins in Montreal had a brilliant impact on me too. I loved Irving and his wife Doris the most...like an extra set of parents. Irving is no longer with us...but he taught me to pitch a baseball and took me to Jarry Park to see the Montreal Expos and would go for walks with me...he always said you have to walk fast like you have a purpose...

Irving also taught public speaking, which is a career that I engage in now. Maybe it rubbed off on me by osmosis.

I remember visiting their house in Montreal and he was an avid gardener and he'd take me to his basement where he had a herb garden and he'd wave his hand under a light and the light would magically go on...I was in wonder at how this light would work. Plus he'd take his thinning hair in front and lift it up into a point for us to knock down...it was so funny as a kid.

Irving was my dad's nephew. They were a couple of years apart and very close growing up ...he and Doris, were so close to my mom Doris and my dad. They were with us when Pierre Laporte was found dead in the car during the FLQ crisis, they were always there for us and we had real soft spots in our hearts for each other...I am almost literally in tears now as I write about because I realize now I maybe didn't mourn his passing enough...wow...and really appreciate the kind of man he was to me.

I remember going into Montreal in 1976 (after the Olympics) and he and his son Billy took me to see the Montreal Alouettes and the Ottawa Rough Riders at the newly built "Big Oh" ...wow the place was packed...65,000 fans...we share some great times in Montreal visiting Irving and Doris...but hopefully you get the magic of my cousin Irving.

They lived in a modest home in Cote St. Luc...but he and his wife Doris created a beautiful home. In fact I live in the Bathurst Manor today because it reminds me so much of Cote St. Luc...wow...big observation huh?

I will leave you with this last story about Irving...he passed away with brain cancer back in the late 80's (like about 87 I believe)...he didn't pass away until his grandson who was being Bar Mitzvahed (A commencement type ceremony for a Jewish child at 13...similar to a Christian commencement) until late at night as the party was wrapping up. Now is that an amazing thing to do. He didn't pass away until his grandson Lee had his Bar Mitzvah and the celebration was on and almost done...so we could enjoy the occasion as best as we can.

I had one more mentor...Rhome Nixon...he was a tight end with the Ottawa Rough Riders...and as a kid (14) I got to meet him. He took me into the dressing room after practice, allowed me to hang out on the field, meet the other players and give me the thrill of a lifetime. What an amazing player and man he was. I remember being 16 and I got to hang with the players at his place after a game for a little after game socializing. I got to hang with QB Condredge Holloway, Defensive tackle Rudy Sims, Art Cantrelle, Art Laster, Rhome Nixon, Art Green and Wayne Smith who's son plays with Montreal now...These guys weren't the crazy athletes you see now...these guys were really cool. I got a ride home with Condredge Holloway after that event and I would always be allowed to hang out on the field and interview the players for the school paper...

I realize now that although I lost my dad, God was taking care of me...and I had an amazing childhood with lots of mentors...

I am grateful to life an God today...and I am feeling like Rice pudding now too.

So those are my mentors Kim...now that you examine it. I was in pretty good hands wasn't I.

David

This months embedded video is about embracing change...it's really well done...but alas it's an ad for Tranquility Alive, a competing coaching company...

I like the video and thought I would share the message with you, check it out...as I think it's an uplifting way to end this edition of the Technicolour Report.

All the best.

David Cohen

Disclaimer: We don't know or endorse this company. Any decision to work with them is solely your responsibility.

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.

It's all about choice this Summer...










As I sit down to write the "Special Canada Day Edition" of the Technicolour Report...I thought that this month I would love to share some cool things you can do for free during the summer.

Let's face it our spending habits have changed over the past few months as gas, food and other costs have gone up while incomes perhaps have stayed the same. In fact in the Toronto Star this week, they wrote about the fact that "Stagflation" was fast becoming the term to describe the economic climate. Stagflation is when the economy stagnates...and doesn't grow much and inflationary pressures from rising oil and gas costs begin to take root not only at the pumps but also in other products and services we buy.

So...that's the bad news...costs are going up...but does our sense of fun and wonder have to follow suit this summer?

I say no way.

In fact here are a few things you can do for free this summer...

1) At Mel Lastman Square in North York from July 20th until the end of August there are "Free" concerts every Sunday night...it's usually big band music...but it's fun to people watch and there is lot's of dancing...it starts at 7:30 pm...but you might want to get there early to get a good seat. Mel Lastman Square is located off of Yonge St.just north of Sheppard in the North York City Hall. http://www.toronto.ca/special_events/serenades/index.htm

2) It's not free but it's darn close. The Bad Dog Theatre does improv. Man with gas prices shooting up we need a good laugh and the Bad Dog Theatre delivers. Located on the Danforth near Broadview Street and Station...it's fun night out on a Saturday to see live Improv theatre for just $10.00. Check them out online at ... http://www.baddogtheatre.com/modules/news/

3) Right in the heart of downtown Toronto is Nathan Phillips Square and on Wednesdays and Thursdays in the summer they Fresh Wednesdays and Tasty Thursdays...market grown foods for sale on Wednesdays and gourmet lunches on Thursdays...plus there is music at the bandshell each lunch time. I went down a few years ago...and saw the Satellites...you might remember that band...with one of their hit songs being "Just give me some kind of sign girl". These concerts are free...and the food is fairly well priced and it's pretty healthy too. Log onto http://www.toronto.ca/special_events/wednesdays/index.htm for Fresh Wednesdays and then check out http://www.toronto.ca/special_events/thursdays/index.htm for Tasty Thursday's if you spend $12 at most for lunch and TTC downtown then you've spent too much.

4) Another cool thing you can take on this Summer...is go to the Islands man...Well...the Toronto Islands...pack a picnic and take a low cost ferry ride to the Islands and it feels like you got away for the day...there are a few Island destinations to choose from...I like Wards Island personally...here is the link to information the ferry rides and the Islands themselves...
http://www.toronto.ca/parks/island/#wards


5) In Pickering you can enjoy a free concert series too...at Millennium Square Park by the waterfront there are free concerts starting at 7 pm on Thursday's through July and August...
It's a nice night out...gives you something else to do and get's you connected with your community... log onto http://www.durhamtourism.ca/events.aspx?id=13323 for more information on the concerts in Pickering...

6) Not to be outdone by Pickering...the town of Brooklin in North Whitby also has a free concert series on Thursday nights too at Grass Park at 41 Baldwin St. This event goes from 7 pm until 8:30 pm...and it's free too...bring your own lawn chair though...Concerts start on July 3rd and goes until August 28th...

7) The Town of Whitby has a beautiful central library and they too have free jazz concerts in the square at the library...so check that out too...plus...having a library card costs nothing and you have access to books, CD's and DVD's to watch and listen too respectively. Log onto http://www.durhamtourism.ca/events.aspx?id=14151 for events at Celebration Square at the Whitby Library...

8) Nature Trail Walks...I walked on Sunday after my radio show (June 22nd) from Rotary Park in Ajax to the Senataph...I reached the peak of the escarpment and yelled and jumped up and down like Rocky...and then walked back. By the time I had finished an hour had gone by and I ended my walk by pushing some kids out of the way at the kids zone splash area...I ran through the cold sprinklers 3 times and got soaked but got cooled off nicely...there are many nature trails in Durham. One in Ajax, one just past the GM head office in Oshawa and Lynde Shores in Whitby...there are others believe me...but these are some personal favourites...

9) The Driftwood theatre group is hosting Romeo and Juliet in July...on the 22nd...it's a pay what you can for the event so if bucks are tight pay what you can...the suggested price is $15.00...but again...it's a pay what you can o do your best...that's all you can do. Log onto http://www.driftwoodtheatre.com/ for more information...it's outdoor theatre and it's a nice night out.

10) Lastly I love the 4th Line Theatre company in Millbrook, Ontario...just north of Hwy 401 off of 115 (towards Peterborough and Lindsay)...they are putting on the Last Green Hill this July and then the "School House" in the August and it's stunning outdoor theatre set on a farm in Millbrook...they use all the elements of the farm and outdoors too...for $20.00 you're in like Flynn... log onto http://www.4thlinetheatre.on.ca/ to learn more...


So there you go...your budgets maybe limited...but your fun quotient doesn't have to be. Log onto www.durhamtourism.com and or www.city.toronto.on.ca for fun things you can take in this summer...

Now...usually I embed a video...in my newsletters...well this edition has a gem for you this month and a touch of nostalgia...I have Summer Nights from the movie Grease...enjoy the video and...

Have a great summer and Happy Canada Day eh?


David Cohen

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.











What's on the horizon these days?





Change...

Change is always on the horizon. As I sit down to write my newsletter...(and I only do it every other month), I meditate on what it is I am going to write about. Usually it's what's on my mind...and lately...change seems to be on my mind a lot.



Personally, I am looking at my life from every possible angle. It's like I am in the process of a re-do, a makeover if you will and I am thinking to myself..."Self what the heck...here we go again...my entire life is up for grabs right now...and it's going to take everything I have to make some postive moves in my life so that I remain healthy, wealthy and well." It's going to take focus, determination, a positive attitude, vision, a mission and surrounding myself with a really supportive cast of people in my life.

It started back in March when I looked at myself in the mirror at Wal-Mart. "My god I shrieked...where did that gut come from...it's not like I really over do it in the eating department...and darn it if I don't get to the gym 3 times a week...what the hell is going on with me"? I asked myself...I knew then and there somethings had to change. The tough thing is not to make yourself wrong about a seemingly bad situation, but to accept what is and embark on taking action to change.



So I got pro-active. In early April I booked for my annual physical. I saw my dentist too, went to my gym and took the plunge and signed on for 24 personal training sessions...

On April 30th I had my annual physical with my doctor. My numbers are up as it turns out and I must work harder at bringing my sugar levels, and my bad cholesterol levels down a bit.

On May 1st, I started and signed up for 24 personal training sessions at my gym. (Goodlife) and so far to date my personal trainer (and he's a gem Chris Bennett) is putting me through the paces of a very high energy workout twice a week and he's kicking my butt to be doing something physcial 5-6 days a week. He's also got me eating better too... We've had 8 sessions and my strength is top notch, I still have to work on more conditioning and taking off the belly...



On May 6th, I signed up for a tele-class series too with a new associate coach friend of mine Kim Ades from Opening Doors Coaching...Kim is a very awesome coach and speaker and is on the cutting edge of the work you need to do today in order to bring about successful change in your life and business. She and Jacqui Markowitz are outstanding leaders. They are leading a pilot weight loss tele-coaching session, complete with journaling each day and weekly assignments.


Also in April and May, I met with Carol Ann Walker from the Business Advisory Centre Durham and I am in the process of re-shaping my business and my business plan. Carol Ann is a gem of a woman and business ally.


Add to the fact that gas prices are forcing me to re-think my spending. Economics and a slight business down-turn for me are forcing me to really prioritize what I do and where I spend my time, money and efforts.



These are all major issues facing a lot of us today. Health, energy costs, business success, direction, managing and dealing with never ending change that permeates are lives everyday.

An earthquake in China, a cyclone in Myanmar...rising prices...it's all enough to make one totally be on edge. How do we make sense of life when it seems to be out of control?

I believe it starts with us. Each one of us has to manage better.




So how do we manage it all without going absolutely off the deep end? How do we make adjustments to our way of life, our businesses, and our economic model without it being too painful?




Look at your return on investment



I believe the most important thing to look at is R.O.I. What is bringing you a good return on your investment. Is the work you're doing bringing you joy? If not why not? Are the areas of your business brining you a decent income? If not why not?

Is the marketing you're doing working? I know a lot of us love to network...but really when you look at it...does going to those morning networking meetings pay a dividend for you that's quantifiable?


Look at the Return on your investments...what's working for you and what's just a bust?





Take care of you first:



The next area you have to examine as you go through change and managing your business so that it works better is to take care of you first! I don't mean this in a narcissitic way, but purely from the point of view that you matter. Your health, your wellness, your sanity, your savings, your money, family, social life, home, business...if they aren't firing on all cylinders than it may be time to impliment some change.

When I talk here of taking care of you...it doesn't mean to all of a sudden hoard your money or not be a giving, decent, loving and charitable person...it means that if you're not happy with the results in the key areas of your life, then it's time to make adjustments, changes so that those areas can now become way more satisfying to you.

If your eating needs work, then strive to develop a plan and actions that will line up to you making improvements. If your business needs to change, look at the areas that work and aren't working and decide where to invest time and energy. If you even want too at all.

In some cases what might happen is you may decide to throw it all up for grabs. Like a Toronto lawyer named Jeff Brown. He gave up his law practice to pursue a more spiritual journey. He's written a book about his experiences and his determination to bring "Unity Consciousness" to the planet. Check out the work Jeff does by logging onto http://www.soulshaping.com/ . It's a powerful shift and change that speaks to his soul and life purpose.



Put a daily plan of action together and put in place some accountability to help you make changes that ensure you take care of you first. It could be meditation, getting a coach, being more aware of your choices and if they line up with your goals.

Here is the last point on you taking care of you first...and why it's perhaps the most important...If you fly any of the major airlines...they always instruct you to take the oxygen mask and place it on you first even before your kids. It's not that you don't love your kids with all of your heart and might...but if you faint from no oxygen...how on earth can you take care of your kids...so put your mask on you first!



Do an inventory of your life:

What's really important to you? I mean really...what is it that you can't live without? Is it the big stuff? Like more technological gizmo's or that new SUV? Probably not right? I mean there nice to have...don't get me wrong...but when you do an inventory of what's really important...it's usually the simple things in life. Like music, reading, sipping a coffee, doing yoga, watching a sunset, walking on a nature trail.

What is important to you and put more attention and focus on that.





Make friends with being flexible:



As we encounter the overwhelm of change that we literally face everyday...you've got to really go with the flow. The upset from this is..."it's supposed to look different way, right"? Life has to be just as is or...maybe if it's not it's because you failed at it...well I am here to tell you that whatever isn't working in your life, whatever change you're going through is not always a reflection of you. Sometimes it's just what's so. Sometimes there's nothing wrong with you...it's just a matter of what it is.

Sometimes even you with your best intentions and efforts may not get the ideal results you seek. So be open to change, to making modifications towards your ultimate goal and vision and have less focus on why things didn't work out for you.

A good colleague once said, "You don't drive looking out you're rear view mirror...so why on earth do you do that in your life"?


Focus on the what, how and when...rather than the why...and stay flexible...don't stay stuck. The change you might be going through may not be your fault. Just move forward!



Exercise:


I can't say this enough...get thy to a gym or a yoga class or a nature trail and include excerise as part of your daily to do. My colleague Benjy Karsh, who works in sales at Chum-fm, once said about going to the gym, "it's the most important appointment he has all day"...

When you exercise have some variety too so you don't get bored and maybe have a buddy to go with so you can challenge eachother and have more fun.



Surround yourself with optimistic-proactive people:



Do you have a mastermind team? A coach? A mentor? If you're thinking to yourself no...no I don't have any of these things...then you may be missing out on you getting more optimum results. The best of the best in business have all of these. Why? Well to quote master weight loss coach and expert Harvey Brooker from Brooker's Weight Loss for men..."If you could have done it on your own you'd have done it by now".

Sometimes you can't do change alone. Sometimes you need a Sherpa guide to help you climb the mountain.


Put in place a mastermind team, hire a coach or at best get a mentor...someone you look up too in your industry that you can speak to once a month for ideas, feedback and advice.




Hold the vision:

These times demand we be sharp and at our best. I can't explain why I feel this way...but we really have to be on our game right now in order to make it. We have to be in shape, healthy, mentally and spiritually healthy as well. One way to do so is to really focus on your vision. What is it that really lights you up, turns you on and makes you giddy? Take that, bottle it and keep visualizing it happening. Isn't it a good feeling when you do?

Make a daily practice of having a news fast...not watching the news and holding onto your vision...


Meditate daily, visualize, keep the focus, and be a "spiritual warrior"


I am always reminded of Mr. Honda...seriously, he invented the Honda engine and motorcycle. He did this amidst the death and destruction of Japan during the 2nd world war. He collected parts (gas cans from the U.S. bombings) to build his motor bike and he got the fuel from those empty gas cans (funny how there is enough fuel for a war...but not for people) ...anyway he held his vision...overcame bankruptcy, loss, and the 2nd world war...but hung onto his vision to build the Honda motorbike.

Today, Honda is a leading automotive manufacturer and has led the way in building enviro-friendly Hybrids.


So keep the focus...do it daily...feel it, let the good thoughts and visions over-take you so they become you.


Take Action:

With respect to goals, projects, and other to-do items, it’s easy to get stuck too long in the thinking and planning phase. You can sit around writing and rewriting your goals, delving into your subconscious mind, working through emotional blocks, summoning the power of Thor… whatever. But if you don’t eventually get into action, you’re wasting your time.

What you resist...persists, right? But if you have a challenge in front of you big or small at least take action steps. Get educated, learn and explore the situation you're needing to put to attention to and take the proper action steps needed to reach your end goal or vision. Chunk things down, take baby steps and you'll get there!


Choose love:


Oh gosh, I sound like a hippie now..."Choose love man"!


Whenever you're facing change or a situation that is forcing your hand...choose love. What would love look like now? Let's say it's confrontation with someone else or it's a bit of bad news that you're facing...ask yourself..."What's the most loving act I can do for me and for the other person" and choose that over fear or retribution.





Conclusions:


I would love to hear your thoughts on managing change and managing in this kind of economy...what works for you? Let's start a forum for positive change and a community of those that can help, lead and inspire.

Enjoy our video...on Change...it's short, funny and to the point...

Have a great summer!



David

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.


Being in business can seem like a long lonely journey...but does it have to be?
Here are some sure fire success tips for you to take to your business.


Tip One:

It's been about 6 years this month since I started my business. It came as a result of a job loss...and it started from nothing. I lost my job on April 19th 2002. I didn't have one client, few contacts and no money coming in. That's a lonely feeling...sometimes sinking. So what kept me going you might ask? Go ahead...ask...what kept you going?

As I reflect on life back then what kept me going was a burning desire to succeed. I remember one day about 2 months into launching my new venture and working for a private client as her coach, actually walking around Toronto by foot, making a list of contacts for her...you see she wanted to market a "Singles" event and we suggested she market to local Toronto Psychotherapists. The logic there is that they would promote her event to their clients seeking to be in relationship. So I walked around to all the medical buildings in downtown Toronto and got names, contacts and made sure I got an accurate contact list to her. I wanted to be my word...

Take the long Canada Day weekend 6 years ago when I got a training contract from a client too...my computer "Blue Screened" on me on the Friday of the Canada Day long weekend...I had a week of sessions to do on the Tuesday. I was teaching a group of Women entrepreneurs at Rexdale Microskills and I had to be ready, I had to be prepared and give them my best. But I lost all my material...never to be retrieved again. I recall taking the TTC (I had no car then) at 7:30 am on Canada Day to my sisters house to work there all day long preparing my seminars for the client. I thought to myself, "I am either insane to do this on a holiday (and the day was gorgeous out too) or I am committed to my success and my clients success)...I smiled to myself as I rode the TTC and pondered which of the two I was...and I found contentment in knowing I was a bit of both...

We did a bang up job that week...the material I created from scratch was good and the women that attended that week of my marketing workshops got a lot out of it. So...as I look at the lonely road of being in business I believe it starts with having a burning desire to succeed. Sometimes you have to go to where no one else will.

Tip two:

The other aspect of starting a business is having a no quit attitude even when others say you're wrong. As I started my consulting business 6 years ago, I developed my practice through another organization, the owner of that consulting group wanted me to give up doing the radio show that I was getting off the ground then too. My gut said "no way"!!! Why you ask? Go ahead, as me why? Well...the reason I didn't give up on doing the radio show was because I worked too hard to get it going. I wasn't about to walk away from something that brought so much joy...no way...even though my work with this consulting group may have depended on it...I felt in my heart of hearts that the radio show was a joy and after putting that energy and sweat equity into it...I wasn't walking away that easily. So...success tip number 2...is to have a No quit attitude no matter what they say about you.

Tip three:

My next success tip is to go around obstacles. If you focus on the obstacle you'll only see it in front of you. But if you see beyond the obstacles and look beyond it you will only see opportunity and options you never knew existed. So you ask, why see beyond the obstacles in your way? Go ahead...ask me...Why see beyond the obstacles in your way? Well, you will remain painfully stuck if you don't. Didn't Einstein once say..."The definition of craziness is doing things the same way, over and over and expecting a different result". My friends, you have to look at options each time an obstacle comes to you. I remember doing the show in the first year...and I didn't have or own a car. I had just been working with a non-profit agency and the pay there wasn't enough for me to have a car. I loved the work, it was a solid job, but it didn't afford me the chance to own a car. So...get this...I live in North York and did the show in Oshawa on Saturday mornings back then...how on earth do you get to Oshawa for 8:30 am every Saturday morning? One option I ruled out was taking the Go Bus...the station was too out of the way for that to have happen. So...I thought...mmm...my guests. They have cars, they can pick me up in exchange for being on the show with me. It worked...for the first 9 weeks of doing that show...I got a ride with my guests...So...success tip number 3 is...look at options not obstacles.

One way around obstacles is to play "What if". Look at a problem and ask yourself..."What if we could change it...what would that look like? What if is a great question to ask when you're stuck.


Tip four:

Leverage your contacts...this is so key to success I can't even begin to tell you. I remember my early days in my business and I would work my own contacts first...getting them on board, or asking for referrals from people I knew. I had a connection with them and they would gladly refer me. So if you're business is slow right now, I challenge you to call on people you know and ask them who they think might be a good contact for you or who would love and benefit from what you do? You'd be surprised what might happen from asking those you know...you just might get some awesome leads.

If you figure that you know at least 50 people and if you asked each one of them who they know that might be a good contact for you in your business venture...you will soon find that they know at least 2-3 people (on average each)...that means you will end up with about 100-150 warm prospects. Success tip number 4 is to leverage your contacts and networks...Why you ask? Go ahead ask me...The reason is it's better to ask those you know then go cold to someone you've never met. It's easier on your psyche when you make that first call.


Tip 5:

That brings me to my next success tip. Believe...yup...sound kinda hocus pocus right? He's talking about G-d here right? Yup...I am. When I was cold calling potential advertisers for the show 6 years ago...I called on 130 of them. 125 said no to me. If I didn't believe in myself and in G-d...I would have surely stopped. Something kept me going...desire, hunger, belief. Belief is the trump card my friends...it really is. If you ain't "walking the talk" you're going to fall over when the waves of negativity come at you. Believe. Believe. Believe.

Still don't believe me? Well when I was cold calling a bunch of potential advertisers to get the radio show going 6 years ago...I remember getting rejected by a prospect...and they were rather rude in doing so too. I looked up to the heavens and yelled at G-d...and had a temper tantrum right in my own home office...I said to G-d, "Look buddy, I need your help here...if you want me to live my dreams and do good work...I need some clients and now"! (ed.note: I wasn't too demanding eh)?

Well...the next client I called on was the Dunbarton Fairport United Church, Reverend Glenn Brown...why a church you ask? Go ahead...ask why... Well Reverend Brown ran a business organization out of the Church called, "The Ethics Group" they did ethics training and their focus was Business-to-business. So after my temper tantrum and yelling to G-d...I called the Reverand...a man of G-d...and get this...he became a client...I laugh at this because at one minute I am yelling at G-d and the next I am doing business with him/her too...through the Dunbarton Fairport United Church...Go figure...Do you believe now? The next success tip is to have a belief...be it in what you're doing and in G-d or a higher power.

Tip 6:


Another success tip is to ask. Never stop asking for business, for help...keep asking. I have developed an attitude now that if I don't ask, I won't get. I don't care if they say no. The reason we don't ask, is based in our fear of rejection. But understand that when someone says no...it's not personal...it just means no. You put meaning into that word...trust me you do. I remember hearing "no" when I was cold calling 6 years ago...getting my show up off the ground and getting my consulting business going...and I heard my mom in my head when I heard "NO" from a client...oh man...she came in loud and clear and gave me this bit of career advice..."David...see...I told you radio wasn't meant for you". That voice in my head was my own inner critic...trying to trip me up...but I wasn't buying...I kept going...remembering that no...means no. Or at the very least when you hear someone say no to you...it's really about them not knowing enough about you for them to say "Yes".

So you're job as a good little marketer is to get permission to continue to market and educate them on the benefits of what you do. Got it? No means no...or I don't know enough about you just in this moment to say yes to hire or retain your services...

The 6th tip is to ASK no matter what. If you don't ask you don't get. Plain and simple.


Tip 7:


My next success tip is to have balance. Hey, I know being in business can get away on you. There's so much to do in the early days...but whatever you do...make sure you schedule time for the other aspects in your life that are totally important. Family, health, your friends.

Just keep the schedule clear from your prime time working time. For me...from 8 am until 5 pm...I work...after or before I leave time for my workouts at the gym...and yes I go 3 times a week...make time for your family...or you will be living a lonely life if you ignore them in the equation and also make room for social time too...

Some ways to plan for balance include, scheduling things into your planner, chunk things down...a big project can be accomplished in bite sized pieces and also negotiate for time with your clients...often a deadline has some room to move. So success tip 7 is...have balance...

Tip 8:

Lastly, look at your clients or potential clients not as sales...but as new and awesome people to have a great relationship with. Can you imagine if the service we got at a store...was based in this idea? That if the girl at the check out counter looked at all the customers as friends...as people to have a relationship with?

Look to build relationships...nurture your clients, add value, dine out with them once in a while, get to know them more personally and you will soon see that you have loyal clients referring business to you...

So my last tip is to build relationships with your prospects and customers...like you're own marriage...relationships take time...but can be so sweet.

Until our next newsletter...I wish you all the success and joy that the Spring season brings enjoy our video too this time out...!


David Cohen
Your small business Sherpa Guide...taking you along an amazing journey



This months video...

Welcome to our newsletter...in it we have information, articles, events to help you propel your business forward. I am really excited about adopting this new format for my newsletter and hope that you like what it's all about.

February 2008

Welcome to our mid-winter edition...the good news is the days are getting longer and yes...baseball spring training starts soon...

This edition we have 2 articles and a motivational video...so enjoy the February edition...it's a little more heart centred this month for Valentines Day!

David

The good news is there is always hope if you just stick with it. So, what do I mean? Well...I have to be honest with you...for years I have not had contact with my daughter...she lives outside of the city with her mom, step father and half sisters...in fact her mom and didn't even talk...we couldn't...we're like oil and water...they just don't mix.

So one of the more painful aspects of my life was this lousy relationship I had with my ex-wife and my daughter. I planned things out, I thought about how I would overcome and win, I prayed for a reunion, I saw a psychic once a year and would ask her about it...and you know what? No matter what I did...I wasn't going to re-establish that relationship.

Here's the lesson, stop out-thinking the situation and just allow life and nature to run it's course.

I have not seen or spoken to my daughter for almost 4 years. Nothing, she wanted nothing to do with me...and it's not that I am some bad guy...it's just that her perception was that I was.

Now back last November...November 2006...I get a call on birthday of all days, that m daughters step father wants to meet me with me to discuss some matters about her. I know what you're thinking as you read this...the same thing I thought when I got that call. "What the heck...why are you calling me today on my day to talk about some issues...couldn't it wait".

Well it did. For 3 weeks. We finally met and had coffee to talk about the fact that my 12 year old daughter and soon to be 13...(a teenager) felt awkward at school and wanted to blend in more by changing her name and being adopted. She had my last name and wanted to have his (her step-fathers).

Wow! I thought and you called me about this on my birthday? What kind of a gift was that? I thought.

So after being in my head about it and thinking I could control the situation...wanting to get my daughter to see things my way and not agreeing so fast...I somehow severed the relationship again...that was in December of 2006.

After my tactics kind of backfired...I let things go. Then in March, I got the adoption papers from the lawyers. I sat on them for a month. I didn't do a thing. I didn't know what to do. Was I to sign them and just walk away never to see my daughter again?

I didn't have a relationship anyway right?

But...what happened is I got into action thankfully due to a personal development program I was involved with as a coach. (Landmark Education http://www.landmarkeducation.com/ ) and I faced my fear...and thought...if I am going to lose my daughter then I want a meeting with her prior to me just signing the papers. I was going to agree to allowing the adoption, but I wanted her to know that I was committed to be there for her, that I loved her and that I wanted to re-establish a relationship. I wasn't just going to sign and walk away...I wanted a meeting. I wanted some assurances I could talk to her once in a while and even visit too...I felt that I should be in her life and she deserved that in the long run!

Well by mid April, that was my stance. I did not sign any papers and in fact requested what I wanted to have happen.

Fast forward to October of 2007 and the meeting with my daughter, my ex-wife, her new step dad and the lawyers was set.

It was set for Saturday November 3rd...one day before my birthday. It's all fitting isn't it?

I met my daughter for the first time in 3 and a half years that day and wow...she's awesome. I told her how I felt and why I was signing. I was signing for her to be happy and that I wanted to resume on some level our relationship...

My legal council suggested I fight this in court. My pocketbook suggested it wasn't a good investment and my heart said, I have other things to take on in life that matter more.

We signed the agreement that day in November...and in one move I let my daughter go...but got her back!

The 4 of us decided to walk in downtown Montreal and go for Sushi...we all suggested Sushi for lunch for some reason...(I still find that uncanny)...but anyway we walked and couldn't find anywhere for Sushi...so we went to Mike's Italian instead. I got re-connected with Jordyn (that's her name) and my ex-wife and her husband...and lunch was awesome.

When it was time for us to leave, we all hugged eachother and acknowledged that this day, we had peace finally and a new appreciation for one another as being a part of our daughters life in some way. I personally want to set a good example...like I do anyway in my life.

Since then we've seen eachother, emailed eachother, written and phoned eachother.

Lesson two. Have patience in life...it does all work out.

Lesson three. Walk proudly no matter what...it's just a state of affairs and you can shine no matter what.

I am so proud of what happened that day in November. The profound transformation that occured...relationships healed.

I can honestly say, that I saw no possibility in this situation. I was resigned to a life of it never, ever getting better. But it did. It was to me a miracle!

I can also write you and say, that my daughter is awesome, pretty, wise and smart. That my ex-wife did a fantastic job and that she too is pretty amazing. Jordyn's new chosen dad is a good guy too...but there is one thing...they are all Montreal Canadians fans...oh well, you can't have it all now can you?

The bottom line is stay with it. Stay true, be proud. I wasn't the same person that left that marriage the day I re-connected with my ex-wife and daughter...I had grown, learned, was humbled and had survived. Don't ever give up hope and pray...(alot)...good things will happen, I assure you!

Article 2:

My best client:

My next story...is about a client. I can't name names though...Sometimes as a coach working in the non-profit field where clients are assigned to you whether you want them or not. So last year in 2006 I met (Robert...not his real name)...Robert was nice young man and in the high tech business. There was however a slight challenge with Robert. He had a learning difficulty. I never asked about this and I never asked Robert about it either, but it was obvious there were some challenges. Plus he was painstakingly shy and not a "people" person.

So there I was...my first meeting with Robert and I am so in my head about working with him. I went through doubt, fear, worry...a broad range of negative emotions...and it really impacted me just being there for my client. My major concern then was "How on earth can I help this guy"? "How am I possibly going to make a difference"? Worse is I know nothing compared to him about technology...the guy ran circles around me.

I had the soft skills, that he lacked and he had the technical skills that I lacked.

Then I got informed that I would be coaching Robert for the next 18 months or more...I really felt off about this. Still wondering how I would make a difference, if I could reach him, help him grow his business.

After a few months I found that if you're just ok with the fear and the negative emotions and you just do you very best on each meeting, that you give your best ideas and advice, that you listen, that you learn ...that everything should be ok.

Now fast forward to 2 weeks ago. I had my last meeting with Robert...and was no longer going to be his business coach, he would be assigned to a new coach for the remaining 4 months as I was moving on from that organization. In that meeting we had the best learning come forth and I got a chance to wish Robert well in his path.

The same day of our meeting we both attended a networking event and as the event drew to a close, Robert came up to me and asked to see if I would continue on as his business advisor somehow.

What a total joy that was to hear. It's not easy for him to express his feelings like that...but by asking to retain me somehow, even though I was leaving the organization, was like hearing music from heaven. Through all my fears, worries, and concerns...I connected with Robert.

My bottom line advice is just be your best, listen, go the extra mile (we'd coach by phone too plenty of times) communicate your fears openly and be open with your clients...Work on being supportive in your business relationships and hold your clients in high esteem...even though they might not for themselves.

More than money...Robert paid me very, very well with what he asked of me. What a joyous experience.

Until next time...make it happen in your business.

Best Regards/David Cohen

Oh and this month we have a treat...downloaded a video from Metacafe dot com and this should leave you with a little inspiration this time out!

Enjoy!

David