Growth is Happening

Today's post features

Krystle Gossett (Senior Director, OH)

Krystle set a goal last year to qualify for the 2013 New Directors Conference by focusing on sponsoring and not only did she earn the trip, but she's also grown her business by leaps and bounds. Here are her words:

Shaklee has made such a positive impact on me and my family. It's been a blessing to raise our children in a Shaklee home and model a healthy lifestyle to them. Shaklee has also enabled me to fulfill my dream of being a stay-at-home mom while also contributing to our family's finances.

Last year, I made a decision to focus more on sponsoring so I decided to set a personal goal for a minimum of five new people sponsored every month, not including new people sponsored by my team. This goal has kept me focused and in the last year, my organizational volume has more than tripled and I have more than doubled my income and qualified for a Shaklee Dream Car Bonus. I also qualified for last year's New Director's Conference in San Francisco, where my husband and I were treated like rock stars, experienced life-changing training and built some amazing new relationships.

Sharing Shaklee has had a huge effect in my life and in the lives of so many others. It has been such a blessing for me to watch my family, my team and my customers experience the healthier lifestyle Shaklee products can provide. And Shaklee has given me meaningful relationships and a passion to impact others' lives while teaching them how to do the same.

With my Shaklee business, I've been able to help my mom, Kathy Allen, reach Director on FastTRACK, earning her two free tickets to Shaklee Live. And several of my Distributors have been able to earn enough to cover the cost of their products and earn their Shaklee180® kits for free (3 for Free Program) focusing on sponsoring as I have modeled. Plus, I hope to promote my newest Director this month!

If someone has a need or dream in their life Shaklee can fulfill it! My dream was to be a stay-at-home mom and Shaklee has enabled me to do it. Shaklee is a gift you can extend to others that will allow them to dream again. And as you're helping others realize their dreams for a healthier and more prosperous life, you're blessed to achieve your dreams.

What words do you use?

A week or so ago I heard someone on the radio make a comment that is sticking with me and has made me think about it a few times so I'm going to pass it along to you.....the following is what i heard: 

"Don't use words to describe your situation, use words to change your situation." 

I'm not sure where this will take me this morning but when I think about myself, I am usually thinking about what's next, what message will it be today, how can I improve my golf swing, I need a new putter, how many calls or presentations do I have this week. I think I'll buy that new putter today. What can we do to help some people grow their business? That's today. 

What words did I use when I got started or over the years when nothing seemed to be working they way I thought it should? "I wonder if this opportunity is true? I wonder if I can do it?  I'm going to attend every meeting I can because I want to learn what the successful people are doing.  If they can do it, there is no reason why I can't.  I need to set some goals. I want to become better at prospecting. I want what this company is offering. I need to make appointments and give presentations. To me this is a teaching and coaching business and I love to teach and coach. I'm going to become a Master Coordinator."

As far as I can think back, those were my thoughts most of the time. Of course we've had our share of obstacles, problems to solve, negative people and situations to deal with, challenges and slow growth. But for the most part my thoughts and words to myself were about the future. Tomorrow, next week, this year, 10 years from now. Our focus for the most part was on changing our situation.

A suggestion: what are the words you use to yourself and others most of the time? Are you describing your situation most of the time or are you committed to changing your situation? Do what I just did. Take a few minutes and write out what words or thoughts you have most of the time.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Here is a plan for succeeding

The following is a terrific example from Sandy Dietrich about knowing where you are in the business and know where you want to get to as far as title and organizational PV. If you are wondering what it might take to have a terrific year, just read Sandy's comments. Thank you Sandy for allowing me to send out your example of your plan for 2014. I have absolutely no doubt that Sandy's 2014 is going to be very exciting.

Do you have a plan? Why not read what Sandy has and set your personal goals and get a process just like she has.

Hello Dear Gary and Faye,

Pray this finds you doing well.

This is an update and I am asking for suggestions….

We updated our presentation using several of Simeckas excellent slides and I love it! It really reaffirmed that our presentation was right on track. I am doing an avg. of 3 meetings a week.

I have 9 on my recap and 4 of them are first level. My goal this year is to gain 5 directors in my first and 2^nd levels on my recap and make Key Coordinator. I run 30,000 pv and need 50,000.

I figure 5 new directors X 3000 pv  = 15,000 pv. Then my extra pv from Fast trackers downline and builders who don’t make director, will get me my extra 5000 pv. For Feb: I have 10 in homes on the calendar for builders in my group....1 group training meeting at my home. Jo is doing 2 coaching calls with my group a month. We have a 3 way call with a new chiropractor, lots of follow up calls and appts....... J (Several of my in-homes have been w/ 2^nd levels, John & Kimberly Schippert, they are at 1700 pv already this month – their 1st month on fast track! Thanks for your 3 way call with them.)

Our avg business group sponsoring is usually 8 and I think we are up to 20 so far this month, so I know we are doing the right things and we will see results.

I am really utilizing the Shaklee University and 1^st step resource guide. It is excellent and takes a lot of the answering questions and training responsibility off of me. They updated most of them in 2013 – for the better. I need to keep working on new member appointments and follow up schedules. – a weak point of mine.

What else should I be concentrating on? Am I missing something?

Thanks!

Sandy

A wonderful example of a new commitment

The following is a very interesting message  of one person who wants to make a difference. I believe there are many of you out there that will relate to Virginia Wright's comments.  Thanks Virginia for your permission to send this out.

I got the message. Actually signed up for a 3-month coaching program!

I got involved in network marketing to help change the world … Light bulb moment: Can’t change the world until I change myself and it’s really only one thing.

Have always considered myself a giver and then got a wake-up call. By allowing my fear (of rejection: what will they think, rehearsing a ‘negative’ outcome, etc) I have been SELFISH. “I” don’t matter … it HAS to be about them. I’ve come FINALLY to the realization what they say or how they react/respond says something about them … not me.

Just this week, I threw off my trench coat, got rid of the hat and removed the dark glasses. I got 10 new contacts and because I’m also “going for no” got 3 of them as well! Some people look at me like I’m a crazy lady but some of the others are amazing. I saw the look of hope shine through … no words can describe that.

Who and what I’m listening to helps tremendously: Jim Rohn (thank you for that link J), Mike Dooley, Eric Worre, Ray Hidgon (my coach)

Why is this happening and why now after years and years and years of trying? I wrote down my first ever 90-day plan. I drew a picture of what I wanted. Now, I’m not only learning but DOING what needs to be done.

- Virginia Wright

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Following success helps create success

I received the following comments from Cindy Jacobson about yesterday's message concerning having mentors, or follow people who have already accomplished what it is you want to do and be. This principle isn't just for our business, it's used in all areas of a persons life Following success helps to create your own success.

I was watching the Olympics Giant Slalom race that Ted Ligity (US) won gold. They said that he is so successful and powerful that all the other racers from all different countries watch video's of him racing because they want to do what he does to win. Here is the principle you are talking about here--study those who are excellent --the winners-- and at least that should help you to be your best.  It still wasn't enough because he still won, but they knew they should study his form and style, and try to copy what he does.  They were all very good skiers--the winner only wins by a fraction of a second.  They were all capable of winning, but it was interesting to hear the commentator say they all studied intently the video's of Ted's races. 

Good principle to follow....like they say, I learned everything important in kindergarten--"follow the leader"!!

Cindy

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Whom are you following?

In yesterday's message I said the following: "You will get better and improve as you're taking the right steps because that's just what it takes." It was about making progress by having the view that it's about focusing on improvement and not results. I know that results are a factor for succeeding, a key factor. But it's really about having a process to follow that will enable you to be working on the right things.

I think a question to ask yourself is, "What am I doing with my time? Am I following success or trying to follow everyone?" Here is a principle I've learned that I believe has helped me avoid confusion and to stay focused: I can learn from anyone and everyone, but I can't follow everyone or anyone because it gets very confusing. I have experienced being confused and I found that when I get that way my efforts aren't consistent because I don't have much confidence when confused. I decided early in the business that I was going to learn what the successful people did in order to grow and succeed and then stick to the process that I know will help me improve and eventually succeed. 

I have read many books that have said in a variety of ways that if you want to succeed, follow the people who have achieved what it is you want to achieve.  I believe that is especially true in this business. So now the question is more focused. Whom am I following? Whom have I chosen as mentors? Do I jump from one idea to another or am I following a proven process? Think about it. Ask questions. Work a proven process.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

What motivates you?

Last night Faye and I were watching some of the Olympics and the announcer was talking about a young lady in her teens and how everyone has such great hope for her future in skiing. As they were interviewing this young lady she made a interesting comment. She said, "I'm motivated by improvement, not results."

My first thought when I heard what she said was, she's got a great coach who is teaching her what it's going to take to eventually become the best she can be.  The focus is on improving not the everyday results. Of course that is exactly what it takes to build a successful business as well. 

I know if I had made a judgement about my future based on the results I was experiencing in the first year or two, I would have quit early in the game. So many people look at results instead of accepting the idea that you have to develop the right skills and the more skillful you become, the more you improve, the more you improve is the motivation you need to keep improving and don't focus on results. 

There have been thousands of people who have experienced success at various levels in this business. That should be a clue that you also can be one of those who continue to grow.  Think about it for a minute. Are you making judgements about yourself and/or this business based on daily or weekly results? You will get better and improve as you're taking the right steps because that's just because that's what it takes. 

The only way to become more skillful is by doing something. You can learn a lot by listening or attending webinars, but improvement comes from doing the right things consistently. Talk to people, learn how to get appointments, give presentations, follow up, then give more presentations, follow up  again, then give more presentations, etc. That is how you improve: repetition. Go for it! Make it happen! 

Focus on improvement.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

What is new for you?

We've talked about how important our thinking is if we want to consistently make progress towards our goals.  We've talked about how thinking comes first and is followed by words we speak to ourselves and/or others, then action takes place; of course when someone is taking action steps on a regular basis, that is what is called becoming successful.

If you want different results than those you've had the past year or the past few months it will require some new thinking.  It's really that simple (but of course simple doesn't mean easy). So here is a question for you: What would be new thinking for you?

Think about that for a few minutes. New thinking is what starts new successes.  This is where the challenge begins - so what I suggest is that you take some time to think about how you want your business to improve or what do you want to take place in the next 60 to 90 days or in 2014?

New thinking might be about sponsoring, in-home events, doubling your personal PV, helping your downline to grow, opportunity presentations, opportunity meetings, qualifying for a Shaklee trip, or about how much increase in your income you want to have in 2014.   

Remember, success isn't an event.  It doesn't just happen.  It happens when people learn and follow principles or steps that turn into a process.   It's all up to you.  So I will finish this message with the same question as above. What is new thinking for you? Talk about it.  Make some decisions.  You'll never regret working hard at this business.   Make 2014 THE YEAR!

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

It's worth the effort

I've been thinking about some conversations I've been in over the past couple months. I know people who have started businesses other than network marketing and they have the same issues we have. There are temporary setbacks that have potential to get people disappointed or discouraged. In the beginning that certainly isn't unusual.   I've read that if you are on a path that has no obstacles, it is probably a path that won't lead anywhere.

It's the same old story that says show me someone who has done something worthwhile, and I'll show you someone who has overcome adversity. If you're a Director or Coordinator or an Executive Coordinator on up to Master Coordinator I know what you've been through to earn that title. I have great respect for every person or couple who has reached out and drew a line in the sand and made progress. You have faced obstacles, challenges, and have had those temporary setbacks. But you're also experiencing personal growth. You've gotten better as a person because you've been willing to step out and face what's out there.

Believe me when I say that as long as you keep up the effort, fight those battles of obstacles and disappointments, you will find that the more battles you face, the easier the business will get. Why is that? Because you're a proven "over-comer" and you've learned that's what it takes to build a successful business.

My sincere congratulations to you as that is all a part of life. Keep your dream alive.  Go for it. Draw your line in the sand.   Work hard. It will all be worth it.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Busy vs. productive

On a daily basis there are many things that have potential to distract us from being productive. Being busy isn't the same as making progress, and activity isn't the same as accomplishment. In the effort to become more productive, it isn't always what we have chosen to do, it's what we choose not to do that makes the difference.

Instead of trying to do more overall to get better results, choose to do more of the right things. When I say "The right things" what I think about is: what activities have the potential to move this business?   What are the top 3 things that have the potential to make a difference in this business? The following are what I believe are the three most important "right things" to be doing so your business can grow:

1. Prospecting        

2.  Follow-up        

3.  Presentations

I attended a seminar a few months ago on productivity and when I heard Darren Hardy say the following it make me think.  "You don't have to do more to have more. You don't have to do more to be more. You don't have to do more to earn more. You have to do less."  It easy to get busy doing whatever, but when it comes time to make a decision about growth and making great progress, it's about doing the right things that will literally make a difference. 

Take a look at your schedule for the month of February. What is taking your time and effort? Are you doing what you consider are the right things to be doing, or is it more about being busy?    Challenge yourself to make that progress that we all want to have and the way to do it is to do less but do the right things.

Think about it.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

What does it take?

The following quote is a great answer for the question, "What does it take to be successful?" I have read many things over the years regarding that question - and while they are all correct, this quote hits the target more precisely than others, so read it slowly and think about what it is saying to you.

"The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, nor a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will."

Vince Lombardi

I went to dictionary.com and the definition of "will" includes this: 

The faculty of conscious and especially of deliberate action the power of control the mind has over its own actions: the freedom of the will.

This all comes back to the idea that what we think about we will eventually bring about. It's about being determined, focused, steadfast, committed, willing to learn lessons. It also means being mentally tough - having a mindset that nothing can stop me from achieving my dream.

As I've said many times, this really is a very simple business. Simple does not mean easy. The reason it's not easy is because for most of us we start out by taking action on things we've probably never done before. It's easy to get discouraged or to become doubtful when something doesn't go the way we want it to. We must be willing to take it one step at a time, learn, apply what we've learned and keep at doing the right things because it will get easier and you and your business will grow.

Have a great day.  Do something today that isn't easy for you to do.

Enthusiastically, 

Gary Burke

It's about making decisions

I have said that I love this business many, many times over the years. I started out with a decision to learn if it were really true about this opportunity. I made a decision to use the products, to attend every meeting possible, and to try to understand the compensation plan. As time went on I met people who were making it work and I listened and became more inspired at every meeting.  As I think about it now it was really just making some small decisions and following through and each step was important.

My belief grew as weeks and months went by. I wasn't doing very well with the earning but the learning was the key.  I got to the point where there was no doubt whatsoever that what I was hearing and learning about the company, products and opportunity and it was in fact true. My next decision was the important one. I decided at about the fourth or fifth month that I was all in. I wanted to learn how to build as the future never looked better in my mind.   In my eighth month our bonus check was over $1200.00. I was really excited about the future and it all came about because of small decisions.

Are you making decisions about your future? Every accomplishment, great or small, starts with a decision.

I also learned that I had lots to learn and had to recommit several times. What that means is I had doubts while learning lessons but as time went on I knew that I knew this business was going to work for me. I just had to be patient and keep consistent with my effort. I think the reason I knew it would work for me was I met others who were making it work and my attitude was actually very simple: "If they can do it, I just have to learn what they know how to do and learn as I go."

Make daily, weekly decisions that will help you move forward.  Believe me, those small decisions are vital for your success.  Do you want February to be a special month? Make the right decisions and than go to work and make it happen.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Are you preparing yourself for your future?

I have been a future-driven person for most of my life. I credit that drive for the most part to the various coaches I had in my life beginning when I was about 10.   The coaches I had in those years were always very encouraging and talking about practice, hustle, and getting better.  They were preparing each of us for the next level. These weren't coaches with a college degree, these were guys from the neighborhood who had a interest in kids.

I don't know if they viewed it as preparing us for the future, but that is basically what they were doing. One of the things each of us has a responsibility for is preparing ourselves for our future in this business. We are all our own personal coaches and it is up to us to put in the time and effort encouraging ourselves to become more skilled. 

How do we prepare ourselves and develop the necessary skills? By knowing what the fundamentals for building a strong business are and then invest our time and effort getting better and better as each year goes by.  Repetition is the key. Getting appointments, giving presentations, following up, and then keep doing it every week because the more reps you have the better you'll get and the better you get the easier the business becomes.

The business is that simple. Not always easy. But this is a very simple business.  Decide to put your time and effort doing the right things and you'll get better and better as the weeks and months go by.   Preparing yourself for having a great future is your responsibility.

Getting prepared for success is my job for me, and it is your job to prepare yourself for whatever success you have a vision for.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Accepting responsibility

We have a guest speaker to give  today's message.  His name is Jim Rohn and I'm sure most of you have heard of him (including my frequent mentions in these daily messages) and hopefully have also heard him on a CD. This will take about 9 minutes of your time to listen and I strongly suggest you listen all the way through.

Jim Rohn - No Excuses, Accept Responsibility (1980s) 

All I will say is I think you will enjoy it as well as learn from it. Mr. Rohn gave this talk in the 1980s so it really is a classic and his style is very easy to listen to.    Enjoy and learn.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke

Are you determined?

Last night as Faye and I were driving to Roger & Norma Olsen's home to watch the Super Bowl game we got into a conversation because of a question I asked. I was wondering what was it that I wanted when I got started in Shaklee.  I mentioned the words hope, freedom and having a future but Faye - who remembers details much better than I do - said, "When you went to bed you'd be talking about earning a bonus check for $3000 for one month and I would scoff at you because it seemed preposterous."

I had forgotten exactly what it was I wanted but Faye was right, I wanted to earn $3000 a month and I was determined not to allow anything to stop me from achieving that. I just asked Faye if it would be okay to quote her in this message and she just said, "It's the truth isn't it?" We both had full time jobs at the time and we were not earning $2000 between the two of us so of course $3000 a month to Faye seemed very farfetched.

More than anything I was very determined. I was focused. I was persistent. In my mind I wasn't going to allow anyone or anything stop me from earning that extra $3000 a month. I just asked Faye to check our records and we got our first check for over $3000 in my 27th month. What happened during that 27 months was I basically fell in love with this business and just kept doing the things I had done up to that point. I was having personal development and developing the skills I needed to build effectively and the majority of that time I was very part-time. 

Here is my thought for you today. What is it you really want from this business?  What do you want your business to look like a couple years from now? Are you determined? Are you persistent? Are you focused? I recall wanting to learn two basic things: what the basic fundamentals were, and a strategy for making it work. The strategy was really a process. What is your strategy or process? Figure it out. Talk to someone who has accomplished what it is you want to accomplish. You can make it happen. Make the decision.

Enthusiastically,

Gary Burke