In "Die Broke", Stephan Pollan challenges readers to rethink their ideas of workplace, money, retirement, and inheritance. Most of us are rooted in thinking that's out of sync with the realities of today's economy. The "job" is not what it used to be--there's no such thing as corporate loyalty. Putting your own interests first, not your company's should be the standard. You should do your best at work, but make sure you're getting the best deal financially. If you're not, find another one. After all, it's only a job.
"Die Broke" is organized into two sections: the first lays out the principles for dying broke. The whole argument relies on these four maxims:
1. Quit today and work for yourself, not your company.
2. Pay cash, melt your credit cards, and don't even think about using your ATM card
3. Don't retire, retirement is a relatively new concept created during the Depression, instead plan to work all your life.
4. Die broke, after all, you can't take it with you.
The author is a financial and legal consultant and the specific instances in the second part are example from his own practice. The Chapters cover everything from "Automated Teller Machines and Cards" and "Umbrella Liability Insurance" to "Mortgage Loans" and "Real Estate Investment Trusts."
Many of us comply with two or three of the ideas. As realtors we work for ourselves with several owning their own company. This business does allow its members to work beyond the normal age of retirement. Ebby Halliday is 98 years old and still goes to work each day. As for myself, I never use an ATM card and basically pay cash…. one credit card that is paid off at the end of the month. As for maxim number four, I like the idea of spending my money on those that I love and for causes and organizations that spark my passions. So, let enjoy life together!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz
Did you know that the National WCR website has a list of books that would make great reading? I discoved this treasure trove when I was the local chapter president. As a prolific reader, I decided to try out a few and found some real gems.
One of the first books I read from the list was The Four Agreements by Don Migue Ruiz, a shamanic teacher and healer who presents a simple yet effective code of personal conduct learned from his Toltec ancestors in Mexico.
As a young school girl living in Mexico City, at story time we heard about the ancient cultures and myths. The pyramids outside Mexico City were the residence of the Toltecs, an ancient group of scientists and artists that was formed to explore and preserve the practices and spiritual knowledge of the ancient ones.
Ruiz was born into a Mexican family of traditional healers, became a surgeon in adulthood, then underwent a near-death experience that made his reexamine his life, his beliefs, Ruiz’s teachings focus on dreams and visions. “Dreaming” Ruiz argues, “is the main function of the mind. A series of four “agreements” are detailed, which make up a larger picture of unconditional human faith.
Be Impeccable With Your Word: Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Don't Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.
Don't Make Assumptions: Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
Always Do Your Best: Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.
One of the first books I read from the list was The Four Agreements by Don Migue Ruiz, a shamanic teacher and healer who presents a simple yet effective code of personal conduct learned from his Toltec ancestors in Mexico.
As a young school girl living in Mexico City, at story time we heard about the ancient cultures and myths. The pyramids outside Mexico City were the residence of the Toltecs, an ancient group of scientists and artists that was formed to explore and preserve the practices and spiritual knowledge of the ancient ones.
Ruiz was born into a Mexican family of traditional healers, became a surgeon in adulthood, then underwent a near-death experience that made his reexamine his life, his beliefs, Ruiz’s teachings focus on dreams and visions. “Dreaming” Ruiz argues, “is the main function of the mind. A series of four “agreements” are detailed, which make up a larger picture of unconditional human faith.
Be Impeccable With Your Word: Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Don't Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.
Don't Make Assumptions: Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
Always Do Your Best: Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "The Energy Bus" by Jon Gordon
For the next few weeks, I would like to review some excellent books that I have enjoyed. One of my favorites is The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. Many of us were fortunate to see Mr. Gordon in person last year at the TAR WCR Annual Conference in Orlando, FL. What a great message he has for all of us!
The Energy Bus is a business fable with the protagonist, George, discovering a flat tire which forces him to take the bus. George meets a unique bus driver and an interesting cast of passengers that share the ten rules for the ride of his life. The characters are amazing. These are people you would meet on the street (or a bus). These are people with whom you work and interact. These are REAL people doing REAL people things.
The book provides a clear road map to navigate the negativity and pitfalls that too often sabotage individual and team success. Jon Gordon shines a light on the truths that define great leaders, great teams, and great energy. Get on the bus and enjoy the ride.
10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
1. You’re the Driver of the Bus.
2. Desire, Vision and Focus move your bus in the right direction.
3. Fuel your Ride with Positive Energy.
4. Invite People on Your Bus and Share your Vision for the Road Ahead.
5. Don’t Waste Your Energy on those who don’t get on your Bus.
6. Post a Sign that says “No Energy Vampires Allowed” on your Bus.
7. Enthusiasm attracts more Passengers and Energizes them during the Ride.
8. Love your Passengers.
9. Drive with Purpose.
10.Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride.
Summer is a great time to read and remember to feed the"positive dog"!
The Energy Bus is a business fable with the protagonist, George, discovering a flat tire which forces him to take the bus. George meets a unique bus driver and an interesting cast of passengers that share the ten rules for the ride of his life. The characters are amazing. These are people you would meet on the street (or a bus). These are people with whom you work and interact. These are REAL people doing REAL people things.
The book provides a clear road map to navigate the negativity and pitfalls that too often sabotage individual and team success. Jon Gordon shines a light on the truths that define great leaders, great teams, and great energy. Get on the bus and enjoy the ride.
10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
1. You’re the Driver of the Bus.
2. Desire, Vision and Focus move your bus in the right direction.
3. Fuel your Ride with Positive Energy.
4. Invite People on Your Bus and Share your Vision for the Road Ahead.
5. Don’t Waste Your Energy on those who don’t get on your Bus.
6. Post a Sign that says “No Energy Vampires Allowed” on your Bus.
7. Enthusiasm attracts more Passengers and Energizes them during the Ride.
8. Love your Passengers.
9. Drive with Purpose.
10.Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride.
Summer is a great time to read and remember to feed the"positive dog"!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Ebby Halliday - the First Lady of Real Estate
How fortunate we are in the North Texas area to have a Real Estate Icon living in our midst – Ebby Halliday, the first lady of Real Estate.
At a recent Dallas Chapter Business Resource Luncheon, Ebby Halliday spoke for a few minutes and signed copies of her book. As a former Ebby agent, I respectfully stood in line for a few minutes of conversation, a warm smile and a personalized autographed copy of her book.
Among the many reasons to admire this woman, I feel one of the best is her continued dedication to “educate women and give them an honest and professional way to earn a good living”. This hold true today as well as it did when she started her real estate firm.
The book is filled with pearls of wisdom that I wanted to share…
“Customer is always right. Winning an argument never won a sale. Always do what you promise and do it when you said you would.
Communicate well. Learn to speak well and dress in businesslike attire that reinforces your professional message.
Community service was a public relations tool for the individual agent and her firm. Serving on city councils, park boards, zoning board, committees and task forces of the YMCA, YWCA, United Fund, and Chamber of Commerce help to enhance the image of both the agent and the firm. “
"You want to know the secret of success?" Ebby has asked audiences across the country. "Make people feel that you are interested in them. Make them feel special. Make it real." Today she adds, "Don't smoke, don't drink, and never retire!"
Pick up a copy today at a local WCR chapter meeting or the book store. Be inspired and motivated!
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
At a recent Dallas Chapter Business Resource Luncheon, Ebby Halliday spoke for a few minutes and signed copies of her book. As a former Ebby agent, I respectfully stood in line for a few minutes of conversation, a warm smile and a personalized autographed copy of her book.
Among the many reasons to admire this woman, I feel one of the best is her continued dedication to “educate women and give them an honest and professional way to earn a good living”. This hold true today as well as it did when she started her real estate firm.
The book is filled with pearls of wisdom that I wanted to share…
“Customer is always right. Winning an argument never won a sale. Always do what you promise and do it when you said you would.
Communicate well. Learn to speak well and dress in businesslike attire that reinforces your professional message.
Community service was a public relations tool for the individual agent and her firm. Serving on city councils, park boards, zoning board, committees and task forces of the YMCA, YWCA, United Fund, and Chamber of Commerce help to enhance the image of both the agent and the firm. “
"You want to know the secret of success?" Ebby has asked audiences across the country. "Make people feel that you are interested in them. Make them feel special. Make it real." Today she adds, "Don't smoke, don't drink, and never retire!"
Pick up a copy today at a local WCR chapter meeting or the book store. Be inspired and motivated!
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Saturday, July 18, 2009
"The Magic of Twelve"
Thanks to Brenda Blakenship with Home Warranty of America for providing the “Magic of Twelve”. I know that we have heard the importance of keeping in touch many times but it never hurts to be reminded, especially in the difficult market that many are experiencing. I keep hearing and seeing signs of recovery and hopefully your area is rebounding.
By "touching" someone 12 times you ensure more success in your sales objective. Just once or twice allows you to be forgotten but "persistent persistence" is the key. Develop your own 12 touch program to encourage potential buyers to act and potential sellers to list their homes with you. Here are some suggestions to help you "touch" your potential clients:
1. Utilize a Client follow-up program to share valuable homeowner tips.
2. Follow up every phone call with an e-mail.
3. When providing your business card, request contact information in return.
4. Send potential buyers news of great opportunities, programs and tips.
5. Send potential sellers news of sales successes with homes similar to their own.
6. Invite potential buyers to join your Facebook group and dialogue with them on a weekly basis - a simple wall post will keep you fresh in their mind.
7. Invite potential sellers to join your Facebook group and keep your listings updated with photos and visual tours. Let everyone know about your successes too!
8. Request a personal reference quote or letter from previous buyer/seller clients and provide to your potential clients.
9. Take time to send more personal, handwritten notes. Write some daily!
10. Provide your clients with useful information often by e-mailing to your database.
11-100. Use your personal skills and creativity to touch, touch, touch without pressure. Developing relationships will be the key to your success... and ultimately the sale.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
By "touching" someone 12 times you ensure more success in your sales objective. Just once or twice allows you to be forgotten but "persistent persistence" is the key. Develop your own 12 touch program to encourage potential buyers to act and potential sellers to list their homes with you. Here are some suggestions to help you "touch" your potential clients:
1. Utilize a Client follow-up program to share valuable homeowner tips.
2. Follow up every phone call with an e-mail.
3. When providing your business card, request contact information in return.
4. Send potential buyers news of great opportunities, programs and tips.
5. Send potential sellers news of sales successes with homes similar to their own.
6. Invite potential buyers to join your Facebook group and dialogue with them on a weekly basis - a simple wall post will keep you fresh in their mind.
7. Invite potential sellers to join your Facebook group and keep your listings updated with photos and visual tours. Let everyone know about your successes too!
8. Request a personal reference quote or letter from previous buyer/seller clients and provide to your potential clients.
9. Take time to send more personal, handwritten notes. Write some daily!
10. Provide your clients with useful information often by e-mailing to your database.
11-100. Use your personal skills and creativity to touch, touch, touch without pressure. Developing relationships will be the key to your success... and ultimately the sale.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Saturday, July 11, 2009
"Success" with Becky Hill, 2009 WCR National President
The Dallas Metro East Chapter held a successful meeting the first day of July with a style show and visits from our two WCR Texas presidents – National President, Becky Hill and Texas State President, Sandra Hunt.
The highlight was the message that President Becky brought to us as food for thought. Would you like to be more successful as a realtor, in an organization, or on a personal level? What are the common traits that unite these diverse areas into one? She distills all the possibilities into “10 Characteristics of Highly Successful People”.
1) Be optimistic
2) Define purpose or destination
3) Work hard
4) Discipline – systems in place
5) Trust your intuition
6) Be a risk taker
7) Prolific reader
8. Strive for mastery
9) Expect the best – remain positive
10) Seek the help of others
What a priviledge for us in Texas to have the counsel, advise and expertise of our National President so readily available to us! President Becky has spoken to many of our local chapters during the year. She has plans to speak to speak to the Collin County Chapter and Houston Chapter in the near future. You can also see her at the WCR/TAR Fall Meeting in Dallas, TX as she installs Deborah Spangler as our 2010 Texas State President. Make plans to join us!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Mid Year Meeting - "Real You Incorporated" with Kaira Rouda
A favorite speaker with Women’s Council, Kaira Sturdivant Rouda, returned with an important message to empower women in business. Her goal is to help women discover their personal brand. Her book, Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs won the USA Book News’ 2008 Best Book of the Year Award in the Business: Entrepreneurship & Small Business Category.
What does it mean to be real? It means your values—and your personality—are in sync with your business’s operations and its people. It means you surround yourself with people who think and act like you—true believers—inside and outside the workplace. It means you nurture your passion with a network of mentors, friends and activities. It also means you reach out and give back.
In her presentation, she discussed the Real You Chart that will help you develop your personal brand. First, you need to start with the one word that describes you. This became the favorite question to ask of your friends and family. There are 7 more levels to be discovered as you work toward your goal. To learn more click here.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
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