Being present and paying attention during conversations is becoming more and more challenging in this digital age. To let people know they have my full attention, I turn off my phone right in front of them. You will make them feel important and appreciated. This is the deepest human need.

There are so many distractions these days especially if you work from home. I have to set clear boundaries both physically and mentally. On the mental side, I have to set aside specific periods of time to focus on just making outbound calls. This means I don’t accept any interruptions during this time. It is challenging, but it does give me a competitive advantage over others who work in a shared office environment. It don’t have to get  involved with the politics.

I am trying to see the best in people these days. I read a study recently. The people who dislike the most people are the most disliked. On the other side, the people who like the most people are the most liked.

Focusing on attitude and effort!

I had a couple thoughts as I start going through the testing to be a kidney donor for my niece Lauren. I must admit have a bit of fear of the unknown going on right now.

Here are my thoughts that I have heard during the past week:

Uncommon love is helpful. Let God speak through you.

You are saved, so don’t live a safe life. God has your back!

An honest response is like a kiss of friendship. Proverbs 24

I heard a great message this week from Kerry O’Neill on keeping things simple this year. The main thrust was to try and keep all communication and processes simple. Simplicity is sticky and complexity leads to paralysis.

As I look forward to 2017, I always set my revenue and expense goals. Many times, my revenues always seem to fall short. I am optimistic about this year because I will also have process goals to achieve each day. Process trumps Goals! If I put in the work each day, the process will pay off at the end of the year. Take one day at a time and do the work!

As we enter the Christmas weekend, I was reading about the name Jesus. Jesus was actually a translated from the Greek/Hebrew name Joshua. Joshua means warrior/general and a person who delivers people from oppressors.  During the Christmas season, I need to be reminded the Jesus/Joshua was not only brought in to forgive our sins, but also to deliver us from the power of our sin. He fights for us against all sin- lust, anger, greed, price etc. Sin is not your master! This is the message of Christmas this season.

During the past year, I really wanted to be disciplined and give more money away. I would say I did an average job. Nonetheless, there is no greater joy than to give money to people who really need it. I struggle to let go of the purse strings, but when I do the blessings seem to light up the whole world. God teaches us to love and this sometimes comes with a cost. Based on my experiences, I am willing to pay the price!

I just attended ASAE networking event. Jeffrey Gitomer shared, “It’s not about who you met at the event. It’s about who you meet after the event.”