Conscious Business Connection

How to Impact More People

2010-08-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

Have you ever told yourself you want to impact more people? Chances are if you’re reading this ezine, you want to make a difference in the lives of others. Right? You want to reach out and help other people with the challenges they’re facing. It doesn’t matter if you’re a business coach, massage therapist, voice teacher, author, speaker, chiropractor, consultant, or jewelry maker. Underneath what you “do” is the desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Too often entrepreneurs (myself included) can get wrapped up in the “doingness” of their business. If you’ve ever had a day in which you run, run, run and do, do, do all day long and at the end of it doesn’t feel like you’ve really HELPED anyone… you know exactly what I’m talking about here. Between creating, marketing, customer service, fulfillment, administration, education, networking, writing, etc, entrepreneurs have pretty full plates. Not to mention, family, friends, spiritual endeavors, fitness/health maintenance, and all the other aspect of life.

So, let’s take it down a notch and look at what you CAN do in each and every moment to impact more people. Let’s look at who you are BEING while you are DOING… because who you are BEING is the very thing that impacts others, not the doing.

If you truly want to serve and impact more people, one valuable practice to get in the habit of is being of higher service to those people you are impacting right now. Take a moment now to think about someone in your life. It could be your spouse, client, business partner/colleague, child or friend… anyone.

Now, ask yourself if you are having the highest, most positive impact you could have on that person. Is their interaction with you uplifting them in the best way, or is it bringing them down. Look at this honestly, right now; there is no right or wrong in what you see, there’s only what is.

The next thing to ask yourself is what do you want to shift within yourself so your PRESENCE has a positive impact on others? What can open you up to being a clear and powerful channel of love in every aspect of your life?

This is how you can impact more people… be a beacon of love and light to whomever is in your presence. It’s not by doing anything in particular, it’s in how you show up with them and for them in each moment. Once you truly come from this place of being a powerful PRESENCE in which other people feel seen, heard, valued, important and loved, you will live an impactful life. You will achieve your mission of making a difference in the lives of others.

And, it is this difference, this dedication to being of service to others (in every area of your life) that will influence and impact your ability to serve more people through your business.

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

From Laziness to Leadership

2010-07-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

What would it look like to lead your life in every moment of every day? I’ve been asking myself this question lately. You’d think being the leader that I am out there in the world with my business… that I’d be leading everywhere in my life.

But, I’m human. And, there are places in my life where I haven’t been leading myself at the level I know I can. So, I’m going to open the vault and share with you something that keeps me from leading EVERYWHERE in my life, and what steps you and I both can take to shift them.

One of the things that keeps me from leading everywhere in my life is laziness. You may be shocked to hear this because I probably don’t appear as someone who is lazy. But, I’ve discovered that often times I put all of my focus and energy into helping my clients step into their greatness, that when I’m not working on my business, I want to take a break and not step into my leadership 100% of the time. I convince myself that when I’m “off duty” I deserve to rest.

Now, just in case you’re saying “yes” of course you deserve a break, you should relax and take some down time for yourself… I’m not talking about that kind of rest. I’ve talking about allowing my consciousness to rest, and that’s not OK with me. In fact, letting my consciousness rest is what gets me in trouble.

It’s not pleasant to admit this to you, or to myself. But, it’s important for me to share it now as I’m being called to uplevel my personal leadership in bigger ways. This all came into more clarity this morning as I was talking with my husband about the work we’re doing with our spiritual teacher. So it’s fresh in my mind and ripe for sharing… and shifting. I hope it is serving you, too!

So, my antidote to laziness is to live my life as who I am when I’m doing my highest work at the Freedom Retreats. At the Freedom Retreats, I am 100% present, connected to Source, available, tuned-in, direct, loving, open to wisdom, trusting, trusted, and masterful in creating the space and safety to facilitate deep transformation and freedom. Literally, the Freedom Retreats feel like heaven on earth for me, and the participants.

Showing up in this way in every moment is going to help me, personally, experience a deeper level of freedom for myself. I don’t expect it to happen overnight, but I do expect myself to take steps in this direction everyday.

So, let me ask you, now… do you look at your life and see pockets of leadership and pocket of laziness? If so, I encourage you to look at who you are when you show up as a leader, and how you can translate that into those areas of your life where you are lazy.

And, now for a word of caution… be gentle and compassionate with yourself. Discovering new things about yourself can be unpleasant and challenging. Remember that you are a spiritual being having a human experience. And, everything you discover that is keeping your soul from living its highest expression in this life… is SERVING you. You are here to experience freedom in the highest possible way. Celebrate those times you discover what’s holding you back… they are in fact the key to your freedom!

[Note: Here’s a link to watch a my music video for "The Key to Freedom." Enjoy! www.loveyourlife.com/keytofreedom]

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

Asking For Help

2010-06-10T12:21:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

For years I struggle with asking for help. It seems to be a common thing among many entrepreneurs… the feeling that you have to “do it all.” This feeling usually lies at the surface for us, because entrepreneurs are typically capable, confident, creative, “go getter” kind of people. We have a vision, a mission, a calling and a commitment to do what we need to do to achieve our goals in the world.

Yet, sometimes being capable can turn into overcompensation and drive home the feeling that we must do it all. When in reality, nothing could be further from the truth.
I remember the first time I heard Loral Langemeier speak. She had come out to Los Angeles to talk at my one-day seminars for women entrepreneurs. One of the things she shared was that nobody is a “self-made” millionaire. She went on to say that every millionaire out there is a “team-made” millionaire… because they realized and utilized the value of having other people support them on their journey of success.

So, why is it so difficult to ask for help? For me, it’s a rather long and complicated answer with lots of dynamics at play, but the bottom-line is that I viewed asking for help as a sign of weakness. Couple that with my other thought that nobody would be there for me anyway even if I did ask, and you get one overworked, overstressed, “all too important” wonder woman… who really can’t do everything she thinks she can and still enjoy a high quality of life.

Thankfully, I’ve woken up to the gifts of asking for help. I think the turning point for me in asking for help was in 2008 when I called one of my book coaching/publishing “competitors” and asked her for a meeting to talk about working together. In the past I wouldn’t have let myself do that, especially with someone who could be viewed as a direct “competitor.” What if she said “no, thank you?” I would have been seen as weak (in my eyes).

But, she said “yes” and the gifts of joining in partnership with Lynne have been so abundant that I can’t imagine what my publishing business (or my life) would look like had I never gathered the courage and strength to ask her if she wanted to work in partnership with me and help grow our business together.

Now, we’ve grown to the point where we have lots of exciting, new projects on the table (you’ll be hearing about them soon) and we’ve asked for and received tons of help with all of them. Literally, we have a team around us that allows Lynne and I to be in our brilliance and creativity while having all the help we need… where others do those things we don’t do well or don’t want to do.

Asking for help brings you freedom! It brings you peace of mind. And, it brings the knowingness that at the heart of every human being is the desire to offer help. Just think about how good you feel when someone asks you for something and you step up to help them. Whether it’s the old woman at the grocery store who needs help reaching to the top shelf for an item, or a friend who is in crisis and needs a shoulder to cry on, to a marketing partner who you’re happy to support, or a client who needs an extra nudge with a challenge they’re going through.

Our hearts are abundant with the desire to be of service and help others. And, it’s a two-way street. As much as your heart is ready, willing and eager to help other people… their hearts are ready willing and eager to help you! Remember, it’s OK to need and want help, it’s OK to ask for help and there are people who will be happy to help YOU… including me!

Note: If you want MY help, please join me tomorrow for my F R E E monthly group coaching call, “Wake Up Wednesday.” Get the details at:
www.LoveYourLife.com/wakeupwednesday

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

Leading Yourself Forward

2010-05-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

Imagine you’re trotting along in your business, doing everything you think you should be doing, only to discover your compass wasn’t pointing to your true north. Your compass was being impacted by the direction that society, family, colleagues, and perhaps even coaches thought you should go in.

One day, you wake up to the reality that you aren’t where you want to be even though it all “looks” right on the outside. The problem is it doesn’t FEEL right on the inside. At first, you may deny the reality that’s setting in, you may try harder to get ahead and stay out there and do what you feel must be done to just keep going (though somewhat blindly), and eventually, you have an experience like I did last week; eventually you truly see what’s been happening. And, you allow yourself to feel the pain of the misalignment, of not paying attention to what you were feeling, to squelching that intuitive nudge that was whispering to you over and over again.

Basically, you dive!

But, the most important part of diving is not keeping yourself underwater when you have the tools to propel yourself back up to the surface. So, you may be asking, “What do you mean by keeping myself under water?” What I mean is you could choose (perhaps unconsciously) to keep yourself stuck; to stuff that’s going on, to “get busy,” to look outside of yourself and blame someone else, to beat yourself up, to affirm to yourself you’re “not enough”, to doubt if anything you’ve ever done has mattered, and on it goes.

When you’re on this journey of waking up and truly embracing what it means to be a conscious entrepreneur, these moments of “diving” are going to happen, they are part of your ascension process. However, that does not mean you get to stay there, not by a long shot! It is your responsibility to do what you need to do to shift yourself. Conscious entrepreneurs are the rising leaders in our transforming world… but we can’t contribute anything if we’re keeping ourselves “under water.”

So, how can you propel yourself to the surface? I’ll share with you what I did in hopes it will help you navigate the narrow passages that rise up on this journey. First, I allowed the painful feelings to rise to the surface, I allowed the tears to flow, I allowed myself to feel what I was feeling and dive into the feeling rather than stuff it down as it welled up inside of me.

I gave myself permission to curl up on the couch in my office and cry, in the middle of the work day! This is not something I’ve ever allowed myself to do… I had a “rule” that if it’s between 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, I had to work. Well, it became crystal clear to me that curling up on the couch and crying WAS exactly the WORK I needed to do in that moment.

I shared what I was going through with some of my closest friends and soul family, and received their love and support. I didn’t try to rush through my process, rather I gently allowed myself to be in it as long as I needed until I felt the light shining through.

As a result, I also discovered that I can give myself the gift of “diving” in the middle of a workday and come back to my desk after I shifted into a peaceful place. I dove, and then returned to the surface to crank out “practical” work with more ease and speed than I ever could have if I didn’t allow myself the space to feel what was happening first.

This is what, for me, it looks like to lead myself. I did what I needed to do for me. I went through it on my own, but I didn’t isolate myself in the process. I allowed myself time and space (without an agenda) to BE with what was happening. And, I could then do what needed to be done for my business (and my family) even while I was in the thick of my process.

So, let me ask, what would it look like for you to lead yourself out of these narrow passages that arise on your path? How would you move through the doubt, fear and pain to reconnect with and rediscover the magnificent, bright light inside of you?

You are a conscious entrepreneur. You are on a SOUL journey. You are here to awaken. You are here to serve FROM your highest FOR the highest. Learning to lead yourself from the darkness to the light is one of the most important things you can do for yourself, and the world around you.

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

Things Aren’t Always What They Appear To Be

2010-04-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

Have you ever been 100% certain that a situation really was exactly what you thought it was; only to find out later you were completely wrong? The truth is things aren’t always what they appear to be. Often when you’re totally convinced that a certain thing is true, you end up finding out it’s not true at all.

I recently met an incredible singer/songwriter, Tiamo, at an event with Christian Mickelson and his song “Universe” speaks directly to this experience. Here are the opening lyrics to his song…

“I had a conversation with the Universe late last night.
It told me that the things I think are wrong always turn out right.
Cause blessings often come to parties uninvited in disguise.
So when you get the door, it’s always best to have an open mind.

Because I believe that everything has Divine reasoning,
and I believe that everything has deeper meaning.”
~Tiamo

The truth is that everything does have a deeper meaning. Underneath every supposed challenge or struggle, something deeper is happening.

I’m sure if you take a moment right now to think about a challenging time in your life, you can look beyond the challenge to see the gifts from that experience. Hindsight is always 20/20.

So, are there situations appearing in your life or your business right now that appear to be “true” for you, and are causing you to contract, rather than expand? Perhaps you’re struggling with financial, emotional, relationship or health challenges and you are only seeing what they are at the surface.

I invite you to look deeper at these issues and look for the gift(s) they are here to bring. -What if the financial challenge you’re facing is here to teach you about and bring you abundance?

What if the personal issue you’re facing is here to help you to believe in and love yourself?
What if the relationship issue you’re facing is showing up to mirror back to you the places you need to heal?
What if the health issue you’re facing is surfacing for you to learn to take care of yourself and receive love and support in your life?
What if…
The only way I’ve managed to gracefully move through the challenges I’ve faced (and continue to face) is my commitment to looking beneath apparent circumstances to find the deeper meaning. This is what I hope for you as you journey through your life and business.

You’re always going to be thrown curve balls, especially as an entrepreneur. Your soul signed up for this journey! The truth underneath everything is that you are never given more than you can handle; the Universe is indeed conspiring for your highest good, always… including right now!

So, let go of your grip on what appears to be true in your life, and dig underneath it to see what’s really true. Chances are you will discover a gift that’s been waiting for you. It’s time to unwrap that gift and receive it!

NOTE: If you want to listen to Tiamo’s song “Universe” or view the lyrics, just go to http://www.tiamomusic.com/music.html.

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

Live Your Destiny

2010-04-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

What does it mean to live YOUR destiny? The more I’ve been committed to living this path for myself, the more I’m inspired when I see others out there in the world doing exactly what there are meant to be doing. Every time I see someone marching to the beat of their own drum, doing exactly what is right for them, it inspires me to do the same.

When I heard Elizabeth Gilbert (author of “Eat, Pray, Love”) speak recently, she said, “It’s imperative to live your OWN destiny, rather than an imitation of somebody else’s.” Nothing could be more true. If you try to live someone else’s destiny rather than your own, you will never end up where you’re meant to be… you will never end up at the destination called YOU!

So, as I contemplate living my OWN destiny, I can’t help but think of the TV show “American Idol”. Granted, I am not a big TV watcher, but I really do love “Idol” and I cry every time someone has to go home. Anyway, stay with me here…

There are two singers on that show that, for me, stand head and shoulders above the rest; Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze! The reason why they stand out to me is that week after week, no matter what song genre they’re given, they are 100% consistent in how they show up. They don’t try to be like anyone else, they don’t try to sound like anyone else, they don’t try to look like anyone else… they don’t try to play any other role other than themselves!

They are both unassuming characters on the show. Crystal in her dreadlocks and piercing and Lee struggling with his confidence. Yet, there they are; on stage in front of millions of people, simply doing what they’re destined to do… singing and impacting lives with their powerful music.

So, how about you? Where do you stand on the “living YOUR destiny” path?

I encourage you either in the privacy of your own heart and soul, or in the sacred safety of a trusting friendship or spiritual group, to allow yourself to explore this question. Too often, it’s easy to slip into doing things “because.” And, too often “because” isn’t the right reason to be doing something.

Take an honest assessment of where you are right now in your life and in your business. Whose life are you living? Are you truly living your OWN destiny (as Elizabeth Gilbert says) or an imitation of somebody else’s.

Sometimes it can be challenging to know the difference, especially if you’re already pretty far down a path. However, it’s never too late, no matter what the circumstances to make some new choices for yourself.

I know, for myself, even though 2009 was my best year in business ever, something didn’t feel right. And, I began asking myself “whose destiny are you living?” It was not an easy question to be contemplating amidst the outside view of success. Yet, I couldn’t deny the stirring inside of me that knew I wasn’t fully living MY destiny. The moment I saw this for myself, was the moment that everything began to change for the better. I can honestly say now that I feel like I am living my destiny, and allowing it to unfold one day at a time. And, so it is…

I invite you to contemplate this question for yourself… are you living your destiny? Be gentle with whatever the answer is. Allow it to be what it is and begin to take one step at a time toward exploring, uncovering and living your destined life. If you simply keep asking the question, and seeking the answer gently, you will soon find yourself living your destiny each and every day! This is my wish for you.

~~~~~~~~~

Note: If you would like a safe, sacred, supportive place to explore these questions, and find the answers, I want to invite you to consider joining me at my Freedom Retreat… as this is the depth of the work we do there. It would be an honor to assist you on this powerful journey. www.thefreedomformula.com/retreats

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

Attracting Success

2010-04-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

Success is not something you achieve.
Success is something you attract by who you become.
~Anonymous

I heard this quote from a 15-year old boy who led a group of teenagers to perform the church service last week. As soon as I heard these words come out of his young mouth, I grabbed a pen and paper to capture this profound piece of wisdom. (You never know who will show up to be your teacher!)

Too often, I see entrepreneurs searching for and willfully working toward an experience of “success.” Heck, this is what I had done for a number of years as I tried strategy after strategy after strategy, following other people’s suggestions about what would bring me success. It worked, to a point. But no matter what I did that was “supposed” to help me achieve success, it never got me to the highest place I wanted to be within myself or in my work.

Success is not something you achieve.
If you are going about your business as if success were something you could achieve, like a goal, you’re going about it the wrong way. I invite you to consider what “success” means to you. Honestly evaluate if it is something you feel happens from outside of yourself. Will you feel successful when you launch a high-ticket program? When you earn multiple six-figures? When you gain a certain amount of visibility and credibility in your market? When you take that vacation, buy those shoes or finish your book?

None of those things are a true measure of success, at least not if you’re on a conscious path of entrepreneurship. If you’re “asleep” rather than “awake” on the journey, indeed some of these things may define success for you. But, if you’re reading my article and connecting with my message, I’ll assume you are “awake” on your entrepreneurial journey.

Success is something you attract by who you become.
Real success is not something you can make happen. You can’t force it, you can’t use your human will to create it, and you can’t follow a calculated plan to create it. As the wise 15-year old shared, success is something you attract by who you become.

So, the question then lies in who are you becoming? Who are you being? How are you showing up in the world? Do you speak of success yet complain that it’s not happening? Do you knock your head against the wall over and over again without stopping to find out what’s happening inside of you? Are you in search of success, but not willing to search INSIDE for the answers?

If success is something you attract by who you become then your main focus on your path of success, needs to be YOU! This has been my own experience. As I took the leap to turn my external focus inward, to search for success inside of myself rather than in what I achieved… everything changed. I’m telling you that if you do the INNER work of success, it has to show up on the outside.

Ever since I started walking the road less traveled and stepped away from the typical “success models” out there in the world, I am feeling and experiencing more success than ever before. But, I’m not working anymore to achieve success. I’m working internally to experience more of who I really am. And, when you’re in a state of being who you are and opening, clearing, healing, trusting, creating, loving, releasing, etc. the Universe does respond!

So, ask yourself this… do you want to achieve success? Or, attract success by who you become? The answer to this question and what you choose to do with it is the most important thing on your plate right now! Give yourself the gift in this moment to contemplate this question, write down your insight and identify at least one shift you can make this week to become more of who it is you want to be.

Note: This article will be the topic of my F R E E call coming up shortly titled “Shift Your Being… Shift Your Business.” Be sure to keep your eyes out for the details soon!

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser is the award-winning author of The Freedom Formula and Conscious Entrepreneurs. She is widely recognized as an expert in the field of conscious entrepreneurship having spoken alongside such luminaries as Neale Donald Walsch, Dr. Joe Vitale, Arielle Ford, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson. Christine works with entrepreneurs to embrace a new paradigm of success… helping them experience true freedom and fulfillment in their life and their business. Get a F R E E chapter of her award-winning book, The Freedom Formula at www.thefreedomformula.com/freechapter.

Marching to the Beat of Your Own Drum

2010-02-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

By Christine Kloser

For most of my life I’ve been conditioned to march to the beat of a familiar drum… the drum that says, “fall into line, don’t break the mold, do what everyone else is doing, follow the pack, don’t make waves, fit in with the crowd, etc.” The beat of this drum had become so familiar to me that I didn’t even notice it was beating in the background of my life.

In all honesty, that familiar beat had been running my life. Yes, I stepped out of the usual nine-to-five corporate mold that society teaches us is what success looks like. But, I stepped into an entrepreneurial mold that had a similar beat… “Do what everyone else is doing.” And, so I did – for several years – until I realized that I didn’t want to be marching to the beat of that drum anymore.

And, so the quest began to march to the beat of my own drum… to do the deep inner work to discover what is true and right for me. I have made much progress on my quest. I’ve discovered so much more certainty within myself, while also feeling less certainty on the external level. The beauty is that I’m finding comfort in the “I don’t know.” Because what I DO know, is that I’m beginning to march to the beat of my own drum. And, with certainty like that, it makes any external uncertainty a non-issue.

So, what does it take to march to the beat of your own drum?

Opening Your Eyes
First, you’ve got to open your eyes to the truth of what is happening within you and around you. You must raise your level of consciousness and become keenly aware of your own thoughts, feelings, motivations, etc. It’s only when you begin to open your eyes to the truth (and allow yourself to see it and feel it) that you can begin to shift what isn’t working. For many years I had an inner inkling that something wasn’t quite right with a part of my business. And, it wasn’t until I looked into those dark corners that I could see for the first time what I wanted to shift, how I wanted to shift and what had been holding me back from a life of total freedom. And, it had nothing to do with my business, but everything to do with ME!

So, step one is to take a look and see if there’s anything you’ve been staying blind to that it’s time for you to see.

Compassion
Please, please, please… have compassion for yourself on this journey. I used to think that every time I saw something unpleasant about myself, my life or my business that I was “supposed” to use it to beat myself up. Nothing could be further from the truth. When you open your eyes and begin to see things… you must learn to have compassion for yourself as you become more conscious and free yourself at a deeper level. Marching to the beat of your own drum requires that you LOVE yourself forward (that’s a fabulous phrase I got from my spiritual teacher), not that you beat yourself up. So, as you do the work to find YOUR unique rhythm, have compassion for yourself and who you have been up until now. You have always only done the best you could with what you knew at the time.

So, step two is to allow yourself to see something that isn’t working for you and have compassion for yourself as you see it.

Commitment
I love the word commitment! I learned many years ago, at the very first personal development program I attended in 1995, that commitment equals freedom! At first, I thought the trainer was crazy, but the more I thought about it the more I saw the truth in this. When you are totally committed to something (in this case, your authentic expression in the world) you don’t have any other options. Your choices of being “less than your best authentic self” get taken away. And, that’s a good thing! Why would you want to be committed to anything less than pursuing your authentic expression in the world 100%?! It makes no sense. So, if you’re going to walk on this journey of marching to the beat of your own drum… COMMIT to it! And, let it take you where you’re meant to go.

So, step three is to make a commitment to yourself right now that you will do whatever it takes to release the “should’s” from your life and learn to march to the beat of your own drum!

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

The Truth About What’s Really Running Your Business

2010-02-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

By Christine Kloser

There’s a silent epidemic happening for entrepreneurs world-wide. It’s not a pretty epidemic, nor is it fun… but it’s an epidemic that can be eradicated by each and every entrepreneur who has been affected by it.

I was personally impacted by this epidemic for many, many years in my business without having any conscious awareness that it was happening, that it had its hold on me. And, I’m hearing more and more about this epidemic as entrepreneurs are waking up and beginning to realize what’s really happening in their businesses.

And, the epidemic is this…. I call it the “Unconscious, Conscious Entrepreneur” syndrome. I can hear you already saying, “What?” “What does it mean to be an “unconscious, conscious entrepreneur?” Right? If you’re reading this ezine and believe in a conscious approach to business, how could you be unconsciousness?

The answer is this. There are ways of being, old habits, default patterns that you aren’t even aware of that are running your business, and your life. While you are likely working very hard (like I did) not to let these old beliefs and behaviors take over… they are so insidious, they can’t help but creep in.

Here are a two of the most common ways this epidemic shows up, and my personal experience with each:

I’m Not Good Enough
If somewhere in your psyche, you have a belief that you are not “good enough” (which is very common for us overachieving entrepreneurs), no matter how much you take action and do things in your business to feel good enough, there will always be an empty space inside of you that can never be filled no matter how much you achieve. Feeling like “enough” has to come from inside of you… it can never come from anything outside of yourself.

How this core belief showed up in me was in my ambitious drive to excel, achieve, and accomplish. While I was connected to really wanting to help people, there had been this underlying “frenetic” feeling that I always had to be doing more. At the time I wasn’t aware that my ambition and my drive to excel was being fueled by a feeling of not being “good enough.” Once I shifted away from being an “unconscious, conscious entrepreneur” and opened my eyes to what was really happening inside of myself, everything changed.

So, I invite you to simply notice if you have an underlying feeling of “not being good enough.” If you do, allow yourself to see how this belief (which is not really the truth of who you are) plays out in your life and your business. With this new awareness, now stay “awake” to it and you’ll see you can begin to make some new choices.

I’m Worried About What Others Think
This is another biggy! Be honest with yourself, and ask yourself if you’re ever done something (or not done something) because of what someone else might think? Did you launch a program you really didn’t want to do, just because your coach or a colleague told you to do it? Have you ever said “yes” to something you wanted to say “no” to because you didn’t want to let down the other person? Chances are you’ve done these things because you allow what others think about you to have an influence on you.

This was another big learning area for me. I used to worry about what others thought about me and what I did or didn’t do (in fact, to be honest, every now and then I still feel this old thought pattern creeping in). But, once I realized how much I had been sacrificing my own joy trying to fit into someone else’s idea of me – someone else’s “box” – I have been working hard within myself to not worry so much about what other people think about me. It’s a tough lesson to learn, especially when you care about others and don’t want to make waves or cause anyone to be upset. However, the most important person to not upset or make waves with is yourself!

So, beginning today, let yourself see if you have been worried about what other people think of you. And, begin to imagine what would be possible if you thought most about what you thought of you. As one of my friends likes to say, “What you think of me is none of my business.”

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

The Truth About What’s Really Running Your Business

2010-02-08T19:45:00.000-08:00

There’s a silent epidemic happening for entrepreneurs world-wide. It’s not a pretty epidemic, nor is it fun… but it’s an epidemic that can be eradicated by each and every entrepreneur who has been affected by it.

I was personally impacted by this epidemic for many, many years in my business without having any conscious awareness that it was happening, that it had its hold on me. And, I’m hearing more and more about this epidemic as entrepreneurs are waking up and beginning to realize what’s really happening in their businesses.

And, the epidemic is this…. I call it the “Unconscious, Conscious Entrepreneur” syndrome. I can hear you already saying, “What?” “What does it mean to be an “unconscious, conscious entrepreneur?” Right? If you’re reading this ezine and believe in a conscious approach to business, how could you be unconsciousness?

The answer is this. There are ways of being, old habits, default patterns that you aren’t even aware of that are running your business, and your life. While you are likely working very hard (like I did) not to let these old beliefs and behaviors take over… they are so insidious, they can’t help but creep in.

Here are a two of the most common ways this epidemic shows up, and my personal experience with each:

I’m Not Good Enough
If somewhere in your psyche, you have a belief that you are not “good enough” (which is very common for us overachieving entrepreneurs), no matter how much you take action and do things in your business to feel good enough, there will always be an empty space inside of you that can never be filled no matter how much you achieve. Feeling like “enough” has to come from inside of you… it can never come from anything outside of yourself.

How this core belief showed up in me was in my ambitious drive to excel, achieve, and accomplish. While I was connected to really wanting to help people, there had been this underlying “frenetic” feeling that I always had to be doing more. At the time I wasn’t aware that my ambition and my drive to excel was being fueled by a feeling of not being “good enough.” Once I shifted away from being an “unconscious, conscious entrepreneur” and opened my eyes to what was really happening inside of myself, everything changed.

So, I invite you to simply notice if you have an underlying feeling of “not being good enough.” If you do, allow yourself to see how this belief (which is not really the truth of who you are) plays out in your life and your business. With this new awareness, now stay “awake” to it and you’ll see you can begin to make some new choices.

I’m Worried About What Others Think
This is another biggy! Be honest with yourself, and ask yourself if you’re ever done something (or not done something) because of what someone else might think? Did you launch a program you really didn’t want to do, just because your coach or a colleague told you to do it? Have you ever said “yes” to something you wanted to say “no” to because you didn’t want to let down the other person? Chances are you’ve done these things because you allow what others think about you to have an influence on you.

This was another big learning area for me. I used to worry about what others thought about me and what I did or didn’t do (in fact, to be honest, every now and then I still feel this old thought pattern creeping in). But, once I realized how much I had been sacrificing my own joy trying to fit into someone else’s idea of me – someone else’s “box” – I have been working hard within myself to not worry so much about what other people think about me. It’s a tough lesson to learn, especially when you care about others and don’t want to make waves or cause anyone to be upset. However, the most important person to not upset or make waves with is yourself!

So, beginning today, let yourself see if you have been worried about what other people think of you. And, begin to imagine what would be possible if you thought most about what you thought of you. As one of my friends likes to say, “What you think of me is none of my business.”

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Be Who You Are

2010-01-29T13:56:00.000-08:00

By Christine Kloser

Do what you can.
Want what you have.
Be who you are.

These three simple lines were the message of the sermon I heard at church last weekend. As I heard these words, each one of them landed firmly in my heart and in my body as TRUTH.

Think for a moment about how much you try to “do, do, do.” Perhaps you often end your days feeling as if you didn’t get enough done. It’s a debilitating cycle to continually feel like you are not doing enough. And, of course this triggers a deeper rooted feeling of simply not believing YOU are enough.

It’s safe to say this is a cycle you are not interested in engaging in. So, let’s look at the first of these simple, yet profound, statements. “Do what you can.” Imagine living your life from the place of only doing what you can do. Not trying to do more than is humanly possible, not trying to overcompensate for your weakness by striving to do more and more, but instead believing you are valuable and enough for WHO YOU ARE. Right now, take a deep breath and give yourself permission to do what you can today and to feel GOOD about it. And, embrace this philosophy every day.

The next of these statements is another profound teaching… “Want what you have.” Imagine living your life from the place of wanting what you have rather than feeling the scarcity and lack that comes from wanting those things you don’t have. If you could release your desire for the things you don’t yet have, and truly embrace the feeling of wanting what you DO have… your world would shift from scarcity to abundance in a split second. You’re BEING would shift from contracted to expanded in a heartbeat.

The wanting of what you don’t have is likely tied into the same thread that’s present in doing more than you can… and this is the feeling of “not enough.” The feeling of not enough (and always wanting more) will be ever present until you stop searching outside of yourself for anything. If you’ve been on any sort of spiritual journey you are likely nodding in agreement with what you’re reading here. But, for those of you who are new to the concept of not seeking anything outside of yourSELF, I invite you simply to begin contemplating what that would look like for you. Who would you be and how would you feel if YOU were the only one you wanted anything from?

And, this leads me to the third profound statement I received at church and that is “Be who you are.” It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? But, when you bring in expectations, approval seeking, not feeling like enough, trying to “fit in,” wanting to be liked, society pressure, family pressure, peer pressure, and a critical inner voice making you think you “should” be something other than who you are… you’ll soon see that the simple act of “being who you are” is not so simple.

One of the most valuable and insightful questions you can ever ask yourself is, “Who am I?” Because in answering a question of this depth and importance, you’ll begin to see that who you are has nothing to do with your career, your business or what you do. It has nothing to do with being a mother, wife, sister, son, friend or colleague. It has nothing to do with the size of your home, the make of your car or your wardrobe. Who you are is much more than any of that.

So, I ask you now to contemplate this question…. “Who are you?” Allow yourself to go beyond any material identification to get to the depths of your heart and soul where the answer to that question is always there waiting for you to remember.

© 2010 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

I Surrender!

2010-01-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

By Christine Kloser

Have you ever felt like you’ve been WILLING your way forward in your business, or your life? Like you’ve been pushing a boulder up hill thinking that if you just push harder, just “did” more, just handled one more thing that suddenly the boulder would move?

If you’re nodding your head up and down right now, you’re not alone. I have spent years of my career “working hard”, sacrificing myself, thinking I had to keep “doing” more… worrying if I was moving fast enough, or falling behind. I was trying to move forward with ease and grace while simultaneously having both of my hands firmly placed on a boulder that I thought I had to push up hill.

Pushing a boulder up hill doesn’t work. In the short run, you might feel like you’re making progress because you moved an inch… but why would you keep pushing for an inch and thinking that was some great progress? You deserve much more than that!

It’s time to surrender the boulder, to completely and totally let it go… so you can breathe, relax, open, trust and allow the flow of grace to guide you. So, perhaps you’re asking yourself how you can let go of the boulder without getting crushed?

The answer is simple, but not necessarily easy. First, you must get clear on what the boulder really is that you’re truly pushing up the hill. Often times what you THINK you’re working on isn’t REALLY what you’re working on at a deeper level.

For instance, the entrepreneur who thinks the boulder is about a particular project they’re wanting to launch, may discover if they look deep enough that the boulder isn’t about the project, rather it’s about them thinking they “have to do more” in order to feel worthy.

Or, the entrepreneur who works to model other successful businesses they see out there, may discover that the boulder they’re pushing is really that they don’t feel like who they are is enough, so they try to mold themselves around what other people are doing.

This approach to business can never work. Many entrepreneurs I talk to feel like there is some boulder they are trying to push uphill… but sadly there’s not a lot of help being offered to help them look at what the boulder really is. Rather, much of the help they get is trying to help them move the boulder in a new or different way. But, hello! The boulder is still there… and just because it can move another inch because of some new technique or strategy doesn’t mean the boulder is gone.

What I encourage you to do is to look at the boulders in your business. Where are you working hard and not getting the results you want? What do you keep trying to do that just isn’t coming to fruition? What things keep happening in your business (or your life) over and over again that you do not like? These are all boulders.

Allow yourself to surrender your hold on the boulder and begin to ask yourself what the boulder is really about… and not at a surface level, but deep inside of yourself. What are you really trying to do? Prove yourself, gain attention, feel like enough, feel worthy/deserving, keep up with the “Jones’.” What is it that you are really trying to do when you push against that boulder? This is the only question that matters, and if what you’re doing isn’t serving you at the highest level, then surrender the boulder, and allow yourself to see everything that’s underneath it.

Taking this courageous step will help you discover what you need to learn about yourself so you can free yourself from ever feeling the need to push a boulder uphill again.

This is what I’ve been doing, and continue to do in my own business. And, I can tell you from experience that surrendering the boulders and going deep within myself to see what the boulders are really about has been the most freeing thing I’ve ever done for my business, and more importantly… my SELF! I encourage you to do the same!

The ABC’s of Aligning with Your Business

2009-12-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

by Christine Kloser

When you stepped on this path of entrepreneurship, if you’re like me, you became a sponge for knowledge. If there was a new strategy you heard about, you found a resource to become skilled in learning that strategy. If there was an event you knew you needed to be at, you figured out how to get there. You were an “eager beaver” to learn, learn, learn and implement what you learned in your business.

But chances are, nobody ever suggested you stop with all the information gathering and ask yourself the deeper questions of, “Is this right for me? Is this aligned with who I am, what my business is and what’s important to me?” Many entrepreneurs I’ve spoken with are just now stepping back to ask themselves what they’ve been doing for the past several months (or years)… and if it’s really working for them.

What several of these entrepreneurs are discovering is that they’ve been going after what they “thought” they “should” be doing based on watching and modeling someone else. It’s an honest thing to do. You’re taught to model others. But, you’ve got to be mindful of knowing where the line is between modeling in a way that serves you and modeling in a way that pulls you further away from who you are.

On that note, I want to share with you the ABC’s of aligning with your business so no matter what stage you’re in; no matter how much knowledge you have; no matter your level of success (or frustration) these three tips will help you make sure you are on track to be in total alignment with your business as you head into 2010.

Assess
In order to get from “Point A” to “Point B” in terms of aligning with your business, you’ve first got to assess where you really are. Many entrepreneurs just keep going, keep plowing through their to-do list without taking time to step back and truly assess where they’re at and what direction they’re headed.

In this phase, you’ll allow yourself to see what’s working in your business and what isn’t working in your business, and more importantly what is and isn’t working for YOU! It may be that your greatest source of income is also coming from the service that causes you the most amount of stress. This is not in alignment. Your income ought to come from your greatest joy. So, these are the things to be looking for. Where does your business FEEL right and where doesn’t it?

Be Brave
The assessment phase may uncover some things that perhaps you’d prefer not to see. I know when I went through the assessment phase in my business, I saw I was doing things that I really shouldn’t have been doing. These were some of the things others had suggested I do, so they didn’t purely come from the intent in my heart, but by what someone else thought.

So, this next phase invites you to be brave in facing what you see. Yes, it might feel temporarily easier to pretend that what you see isn’t really there. It’s natural to want to avoid that kind of pain. However, if it’s there, it will always be there and it can’t really be avoided, it can only be postponed. So, allow yourself to face whatever you see straight-on and you will be one step closer to totally aligning your Self with your business.

Co-Create
Finally, the third phase is to embrace the concept of co-creation. Co-creation happens when you are fully awake, aware and conscious of the reality that everything created through you is created in partnership with Spirit. In order to truly be aligned with your Self and your business, it’s essential to not let your human will or your ego feel like it’s the creative force behind what you do.

Alignment happens when your ego is set aside, when your intent is pure, when comparison and competition (or what you think you “should” do) aren’t part of your process. This can be the greatest growth oppor^tunity of all… to allow yourself to “let go” enough to make room for grace. So, don’t feel like you have to do everything in your business (or your life) alone, be open to seeing that when you’re in alignment you’re opening to a world of infinite possibility.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Running Scared or Running Free

2009-11-19T07:22:00.000-08:00

In each and every moment of your life (including this moment right now) you have an important choice to make. Will you choose to be scared, or choose to be free? In the events of the past few weeks, and the passing of my mother-in-law, I was acutely aware of the choices I had in each moment.

When my husband and I found out how suddenly the end was approaching, it was quite shocking (and untimely). There was a tiny voice in side of me that started going through all of the “what if’s.” What if she passed before David got there? What if I needed to close my business for the week… or cancel my retreat? What if I never got to say goodbye? What if…

As soon as I noticed the contractions around all of the “what if’s,” I realized they were all coming from a place of fear. They were making me feel like I was running scared. I’ve never gone through this before; I didn’t know how to BE or what to do. So, I asked myself, “is this how I want to be feeling right now?” Did I want to be feeling the fear, the frantic energy and the worry about “what if?” Well, the only answer to that question was no.

So, instead I chose to feel free within myself and make decisions from that space. Not surprisingly, grace joined me in that place and we easily got my husband on the next plane out of Baltimore with no problem. (While he didn’t make it to his mom before she passed, he made peace within himself around her passing.) I changed the date of my retreat to start one day later and the attendees adjusted to the change with such grace, as did the bed and breakfast I was holding it at… they had the exact number of rooms I needed for the new dates. My parents quickly adjusted their schedule to watch Janet while I was at the retreat so David could stay with his father in Sacramento for an extra week. And, on and on…

I stopped running scared that I wouldn’t have the time I had planned to prepare for the retreat, and chose to release my attachment to what I “thought” I “needed” to do… and the freedom within me allowed for more grace to unfold in a magical retreat. Instead of running scared about some commitment I had to break, I chose to be fr-ee within myself and not beat myself up about having to let some things go so I could be present with my husband and family.

There was so much happening in such a short period of time, each moment was a choice I had to make. Will I run “scared” or will I run “free?”

I invite you to ask yourself this same question right now with whatever is happening in your life. What are you choosing to be your experience? Are you running scared or running free?

Some of you may immediately go to a place in your mind that will quickly begin listing all of the “reasons” why you ought to be scared. Remember that this voice that causes you to feel contracted, fearful, scared, paralyzed, etc… is the voice of your ego. Simply allow yourself to acknowledge the voice. Let it feel heard.

But, as my spiritual teacher says… then turn UP the volume on the voice of your Higher Self. Listen to this voice more closely. Listen for the truth that resides deep within your soul. Your soul sings the song of freedom… no matter what circumstances may be occurring around you. It is YOU that can choose in any moment to allow fear or freedom to determine how you feel.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Living a Spiritual Life

2009-10-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

By Christine Kloser

What does it mean to live a spiritual life... to really, truly, deeply live from the place of ease, grace, joy and love no matter what shows up in the world around you? This is a question I’ve been pondering for a few months now, and one that is getting answered as I face some challenges and changes in my life, business and family.

Living a spiritual life isn’t about skirting along the surface of understanding; rather it’s about being willing to look for deeper meaning, understanding, lessons and gifts in every moment of your life.

Like right now, for instance. Are you fully here, in this moment reading and absorbing this article (and giving yourself the focus and time you deserve to be fully present)? Or, are you reading this article with a dozen other things running through your mind feeling stressed about how much you have to do and how little time you have to do it in.

I’m simply asking you to notice what you’re doing right now. It’s only in stopping to notice what you’re doing that you can begin to uncover the gems that are waiting in each moment for you, including this one.

This consistent “noticing,” awareness and presence in each moment is what living the spiritual life is all about. Being spiritual doesn’t mean you have to retreat to a mountain top in India for a month of meditation. And, it isn’t something you do at your convenience when you feel you need it because the “going got tough.” Living a spiritual life is as simple as choosing to not get angry when someone cuts you off on the highway… and instead choosing to bless them with love and pray for that driver’s ease and safety. It means embracing a spiritual way of being in every moment of every day (or at least noticing when you have contracted into fear, doubt, anger, lack, etc. and doing something to shift into a higher state of being).

On the flip side, it’s also important to see that living a spiritual life isn’t about how peaceful, loving and connected you feel when you are alone with yourself. Yes, it includes that, but the spiritual “rubber hits the road” when you move into aligned and integrated action in the physical realm.

This is the most critical part of the journey of living a spiritual life… that you learn how to integrate what you’re experiencing in you inner world with how you show up in the outer world. This is part of why the outer world of my business will be transforming and shifting in the coming months… because I am transforming and shifting on the inside and I’m seeing things in my business (and my life) that no longer feel aligned with who I am today.

So, in closing, I’m going to recommend that you to take five minutes right now to ask yourself how you’re doing living your spiritual life and jot down whatever comes to you. If you have questions write them down; if you think I’m crazy write that down, too. If you’re resonating with this question and yearn to live a more aligned, expanded and spiritual life in every area, including your business… then write about what that might look like for you. Please give yourself the gift of a few minutes (right now) to reflect on this question. Your freedom may very well reside in what you’ll discover.

And, please don’t hesitate to email me what you wrote, or any further questions you have about Living a Spiritual Life. You can reach me at Christine@loveyourlife.com. I would love to know what you think of today’s article and how I can further serve you on this path of conscious entrepreneurship.

~~~~~~~

Note: I hesitated to add what I’m going to share here, but then I realized that I may be doing a few of you a disservice if I didn’t share this. As of today, I have a few spaces remaining at my Freedom Retreat next month in Maryland. If you’re feeling like you need some time away from your day-to-day life to gain clarity and direction for your business, and your life (as you prepare for 2010) it would be an honor and a privilege to have you join me at the retreat. If you’re interested, please email me directly at Christine@loveyourlife.com so we can connect about the details.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Energetic Consistency

2009-09-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I taught a private teleclass for my Freedom Circle Mastermind members. Usually, I know what I’m going to talk about a few months in advance, but for some reason last month I didn’t feel like any topic I came up with was the “right” topic for my clients with where they were on their entrepreneurial journey.

Contrary to my ego’s desire for me to have everything well thought out and planned far in advance, I allowed myself to let go and listen… to allow the perfect topic to reveal itself to me. Within hours of the time I was to give this talk, the topic revealed itself… it was supposed to be about energetic consistency. Energetic Consistency is about staying centered, steady, focused, faithful and aligned with your Highest self as you chart your course through life and business.

Why is energetic consistency so important? To begin with, energetic consistency will make the difference between success and struggle in each and every moment. If you are energetically consistent (as opposed to being up and down with your emotions and ego running all over the place) you experience much more ease, grace, and flow in your life all the time. Energetic consistency is about upleveling yourself on a spiritual level and shifting your mode of operation to be even more aligned with your Highest self.

It’s likely with all that’s going on in the world today you may be facing some challenges in being able to stay centered, grounded, peaceful and aligned. The challenges can come about because of the duality that we live in, the speed at which our current world is changing, and the radical realignment that is happening, especially for people (like you) who are already walking a path of consciousness in their business.

I want to share with you two of my favorite tools for helping my Self “stay the course” and remain energetically consistent. I’ll likely share more tools over the coming weeks, but here are two to get you started right now:

Expand, Expand, Expand
Whenever you feel yourself slipping into a contracted physical, emotional or spiritual state of being, remind yourself to E-X-P-A-N-D. When you feel these “symptoms” in your body… shortened breath, knots in your stomach, etc., they are signs your body is moving into a contracted state; and your mind, heart and soul are soon to follow.

When you feel contracted, allow yourself to take some deep breaths, remember that you are a child of God and the Universe is conspiring for your highest good in every moment. Let go of the feeling that you have to control, force or will things to happen in your life and ask to be shown the doors where things are easy, fluid and touched by grace.

A contracted state will keep the door of grace closed, whereas when you’re in a more expanded energetic space the door of grace easily opens, and you will see it in everything. So, right now, if you feel any contraction about anything in your life… breathe, remember who you truly are, let go, allow grace and ask for help. (Which brings me to the next tool.)

Reach Out Rather Than Isolate
One of the ways our ego tries to “take us out” and stay contracted is to isolate. Well, isolation is not the key to freedom. Connection is! Especially in times when you may feel like crawling under a rock and not facing what lies in front of you, reaching out and connecting with others will help you remember your Highest thoughts and help set you fr^ee.

In order to remain energetically consistent, no matter what’s happening around you, you simply cannot do it alone. Connection and community are your lifeline to continually moving forward… as long as you see any bumps along the way as opportunities to grow stronger in WHO you are. Reaching out rather than isolating helps you exercise your ability to stay energetically consistent which leads to you feeling more ease, more joy, more alignment, more grace, more on purpose, etc.

So, the next time you feel yourself being pulled off center by “something” that happens in the world around you (or to you directly), remember to expand rather than contract and reach out rather than isolate. These two tools alone can be the very difference between struggle and success… one moment at a time.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

The Hidden Benefits of Writing Your Book

2009-08-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

It’s been just over a year that my book, The Freedom Formula, became an Amazon #1 best-seller. As I reflect on that great journey (and the success that’s come since then) I’m reminded of how drastically writing a book can change your business, and your life. The journey of the past year has been more transformational and expansive than I dreamed possible. This experience is making me even more excited as I prepare for my Fall Get Your Book Done program.

I know so many entrepreneurs whose businesses (and lives) have already been changed by writing their book, yet there are MANY more that haven’t yet fulfilled this dream.
Eight out of ten people have a book inside them, but most of them never get their book done. Perhaps you can relate… you KNOW you need a book to grow your business especially when you consider these benefits of becoming a published author:

Position yourself as an expert
Reach a larger audience
Get more speaking engagements and more publicity
Increase value by "bundling" books with other products/services
Give as bonus/promotional item for your business
Gain instant credibility
Increase revenue through book sales
Build relationships with “centers of influence”
Make a difference in your readers’ lives
A book is, by far, the BEST business card you can have; nobody throws away a book!
What you may not realize is this… there are a ton of HIDDEN benefits of writing your book. So, if you’ve been thinking of writing you book, I want to share the top three hidden benefits that myself and my clients have received through the experience of writing and publishing a “signature” book:

Clarity
Many new authors approach their book with unbridled enthusiasm and a TON of ideas. The truth is you could fill several books with your insight and information. But, tons of information in a huge book doesn’t make for a best-seller. That’s why the #1 hidden benefit of writing your book is clarity. Through the book preparation, research and writing process, you’ll quickly discover the core essence of your message and the simplest, most logical way to present your information.

You’ll also gain clarity on where the book fits into your “product funnel/service offerings” and what systems you ought to implement to maximize your exposure through the book. You’ll become clear on new products, new services and new ways to build your list (so you can stay connected to them over and over again). After all, you’re writing your book to reach more people and gain more customers, right? It’s amazing how easily you can put together a clear plan to turn readers into ideal customers. Most published authors will tell you this kind of clarity rarely comes from anything other than writing you own book.

Confidence
The second hidden benefit of writing your book is achieving a level of personal confidence most people only dream of. When you proudly introduce yourself as the Author of ___________, and show people your brand-new book, you’re confidence goes through the roof! There’s something that happens inside of you, when you finally put pen to paper and take a STAND for yourself by putting your valuable information in print. Not to mention WHO you have to “BE” to complete your book. You’ll discover an entirely new side to yourself when you step up the plate to write your book.

You’ll stretch and grow in surprising, challenging and fun ways as you go through the process of writing your book. You get to discover more and more of who YOU are and the value you offer to the world. With each page you write, you uncover more of your brilliance and at the end of the process, you’ll see (and value) yourself in an entirely new light.

Courage
Once you experience total clarity and confidence from writing your book, you’ll discover a newfound sense of courage. Many of my clients say it wasn’t until they became published that they had the courage to ask for more money, more speaking engagements, more referrals, more publicity… and know they DESERVED it 100%.

Just imagine there’s someone you want to meet (who can further your success) and you’ve never had the courage to contact them. Once you’re a published author it’s EASY to contact anyone, because you can introduce yourself as an Author and give them a signed copy of your book. The hidden benefit of courage can literally mean thousands of dollars in your pocket because you’re finally ready to ask for what you want.

If you’re thinking of writing a book, keep these “Three Cs” at the top of your mind (and heart) as you bring your brilliance out in the pages of your book. Yes, the expert status, credibility and new revenue from your book are valuable rewards, which will be maximized through the hidden benefits of Clarity, Confidence and Courage.

Note: Please join me and my partner, Lynne Klippel on Tuesday September 1 for a
F-R-E-E Teleclass on the “7 Strategies Every Entrepreneurial Author Needs to Know… Before Writing a Word.” We’ll be sharing tons of information and some incredible author success stories to help you get motivated to Get Your Book Done. Sign up now at www.gybdpreview.com.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Take Time for Yourself

2009-08-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

In today’s fast-paced world (a world that is changing by the minute), one of the most important things you ought to be practicing is taking time for yourself. Especially if after reading that first line, there’s a voice in your head saying, “But I don’t have time. There’s too much to do. I’m so far behind. I can’t get everything done. Where will I find the time? I can’t afford to take time for myself. I’ve got to keep driving forward. I’ll take a break once I get through these projects.”

Pardon my directness here, but that’s all B.S. Those voices in your head that say you can’t take time for yourself are not driven by your Higher Self. Those voices come from your ego; from that place inside you that believes in lack, scarcity and fear.

If you were to listen to the voice of your Higher Self, it would be saying things like, “Give yourself a break. You deserve to take time for yourself. You don’t have to get everything done today. Nothing is as pressing as it seems. You don’t have to do it all alone. You are supported by visible and invisible sources. Relax, release, let go and allow grace to guide you.”

If you desire to hear more of your “Higher Self voice” than you do your “ego voice” (which I trust you do) then it’s imperative that you take time for you. It doesn’t have to be time alone, it just has to be dedicated time for you to be asking and answering some deeper questions for yourself. The clarity and knowingness you crave will come from this time you take for you.

The only way I can share this with you is because it’s what I’ve been doing for myself. I’ve enjoy time journaling, meditating, quietly contemplating, praying, and in retreat. In fact in a few short weeks I’ll be spending time at a back to back retreat and spiritual intensive. It’s not the most logical time for me to be taking this time for myself, but it’s necessary. And, I am clear that if I don’t take this time for myself in retreat that I’d end up working harder than I have to, focusing on projects that I’m not meant to be doing, and struggling more than experiencing a state of ease and flow in every area of my life.

So, if you’d like more ease and flow in every area of your life, here are some suggestions based on my personal experience that can help you take time for yourself:

Give Yourself a Break Everyday
Each and every day; dedicate a certain amount of time to yourself. This isn’t time to brainstorm on your upcoming business project, rather it’s time to sit with yourself, to contemplate what’s occurring in your life, to notice what might not be working so you can shift it, to experience what you’re feeling and to allow grace to guide you to more love and more ease.

Lately, I’ve been enjoying between 1 and 2 hours every morning taking time for me. I usually begin by listening to inspiring music to get centered and grounded as I breathe and feel myself in my body. After a few songs, I’ll sit quietly in meditation, and then I’ll come out of meditation to do some journaling followed by a beautiful (and rigorous) walk up and down the neighborhood hills and a healthy breakfast. After taking this time for myself, I feel relaxed and clear as I go about the tasks of the day.

How do you give yourself a break everyday? And, if you’re not doing it now, when will you start?

Engage with Like-Minded People
Another fantastic way to take time for yourself is to engage with like-minded people. I know this may sound backwards. How can spending time with like-minded people be taking time for you? Well, the kind of time I’m talking about isn’t simply sitting around drinking wine and talking about the latest movie or gizmo. Full engagement with like-minded people always lifts you up, shows you more of yourself, helps you learn what you need to learn, and gives you the experience of giving and receiving love and support. And, that IS one of the most soul-nurturing things you can do for yourself.

For me, I participate in two women’s circles in which we gather for the sole purpose of experiencing our Highest Self and being there to help other women experience theirs. Additionally, the work I’m doing with my spiritual mentor requires very active participation with everyone in our group… constantly focused on making the shifts we need to make to experience total freedom in our lives. When I take time to engage with these like-minded friends, I feel totally fulfilled, loved and connected.

Who do you engage with at this level? And, if you don’t have people right now who are able to have this level of engagement with you, what will you do to bring these types of relationships into your life?

Get Away from Your Daily Routine
This one is a biggie! The gifts that await you when you step out of the hectic pace of your life and step into a dedicated time/space for contemplation, clarity and expansion… are miraculous. If you’ve ever gone on retreat, or participated in a mastermind (that’s about more than just business), or have a spiritually-based “girls weekend” (or guys weekend), then you know the value of this time away. The openings that occur when like-minded people gather together in an intimate setting with a common purpose are powerful beyond measure.

Since 2006 I’ve been consistently participating in Mastermind groups where we gather for a few days. It’s so valuable for me to step away from my daily routine and place myself in the environments where transformation and clarity abound. And, since 1997 I’ve been creating space for others to get away and give themselves the gift of time necessary for important contemplation, release and expansion. It’s hard to believe I began this work a dozen years ago, but that’s what I did with my Vision Weekends and continued with my Conscious Business Retreats and now with my Freedom Circle Mastermind.

When was the last time you got away from your daily routine for more than a day to focus on YOU? And, if you haven’t done this for a while (or ever), where will you go, when will you go and with whom will you go?

These three strategies have been vital to my growth as an entrepreneur, and more importantly to my growth as a human being. Choose at least one of these suggestions to get started with today and you’ll begin to experience great shifts in your business and your life. And, if you’re really ready for a huge shift and upleveling into more of your Self, then get started on all three! You’ll put yourself on the fast track to aligned and expansive success.

[NOTE: Since so many of you have been resonating with the concept of expansion through simplification (and these three suggestions are a powerful way to do that), I’m working happily this week to introduce a new service that’ll help you implement all three of these suggestions with my personal help. I’ll keep you posted as things unfold.]

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Expansion Through Simplification

2009-08-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

In a world being torn apart from the desire for “more, more, more”… something incredible is happening. There is a “shift” underway; from the old, greedy patterns of yesterday to a more simplified and aligned approach to everything.

I was reminded of this again last night as I was watching Dr. Wayne Dyer’s movie “The Shift.” He talked so beautifully about the “morning and afternoon” of life. He refers to this as a shift of moving from an ego-based drive for money, acquisitions and external achievements to a love based desire to be of service, and to experience (and be a source of) peace and love.

I know I may sound like a hippie talking about service, peace and love, but the new business paradigm is based on these very things. I can’t tell you how many entrepreneurs I’ve been talking to lately who are fed up with all the hype out there about how you can get ri^ch quick. These are the entrepreneurs who are looking and searching to find true MEANING in their work, and to become more aligned with who they are here to BE, and who they are here to serve… knowing that THIS is the place where abundance of all kinds FLOWS!

This quest is the most valuable and important quest a conscious entrepreneur can go on. It is only through these deep internal shifts in your own consciousness that you can experience the abundance and lasting success you’re looking for in your life and your business. This is a shift toward simplicity, a shift toward your own energetic expansion, a shift toward surrendering and trusting a Higher plan.

So, I want to share with you three of the most valuable lessons I’m learning right now as I expand… through simplification.

1) Less is More
I’ve spoken with several entrepreneurs lately who have hit big milestones in their businesses, who are now questioning and wondering what it’s all for. The overhead is high, the stress is high, the ambition is high… but the quality of life and of “Being” are low. Contraction has been happening in the very space where expansion is most needed. The solution we’re all seeing as we “compare notes” is that the key to growth isn’t “bigger is better”… the key to the growth we’re looking for in terms of fulfillment, satisfaction, ease, openness and grace is SIMPLICITY! Scaling back, saying no, releasing projects, rethinking the “more is better” business model… is what’s leading me and others I know to more freedom and true soul fulfillment.

2) Seek Ease
This has been a huge lesson for me. I’ve run a racket for years that business was supposed to be “hard.” That I was supposed to be juggling many projects at once, that I was always supposed to be in “create” mode, etc. I realize how ridiculous it is to keep striving unnecessarily, yet I was doing it. My focus now, as with many of my colleagues and clients, is turned toward the experience of EASE. With the help of my mastermind colleagues in Connecticut recently, they helped me see that I was trying to “do” way too much, and they called me on it. They helped me see a huge and soul fulfilling oppor^tunity that I’ve been moving away from for 8 years. It hurt to see that I pushed away ease in exchange for “work”…. but I’m glad now that I’m seeing what I need to see and I’m making some new choices. (I’ll be sure to share what’s evolving as soon as it’s ready.)

3) Trust
Above everything, especially when things get more difficult then you ever thought they could… TRUST! This is one of my four “Conscious Entrepreneur” criteria I talk about in Chapter 1 of The Freedom Formula. It’s essential to trust in your Higher/Divine plan as you move forward in your business and your life. I’ve been living in this trust and teaching it for years. Yet, now, with all the change I’m going through on my spiritual path, I’m realizing just how important this one factor is. Growth of any kind can be challenging, but when you breathe and acknowledge the role that God is playing in supporting, guiding and leading you, it gets easier. When you trust, you open up a space where you can see the Universe conspiring for your highest good in every moment. It always is…

These three lessons have been valuable ones for me as I grow, evolve and shift into the next evolution of myself. And, they’ve become a theme for many of my clients, too. Embracing these three concepts will help you experience more of everything you’re looking for in your life and your business. Doing less, seeking ease and trusting are great ways to start experiencing MORE of YOU!

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

What Do You Choose?

2009-07-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

In every moment of your life, lies a decision. And, it's the culmination of these decisions that brought you to where you are today.

You may be thinking you're thrilled with where you are today and you wouldn't change a thing; however, I have a feeling the majority of you reading this article realize there's more to life than where you are right now. And, many of you are looking for ways to experience more of your ama^zing self... you want to realize your FULL potential as a human being, and as a conscious entrepreneur.

So, I ask you this, "Are you making consistent CHOICES that are helping you realize your full potential as a human being, and as an entrepreneur?" Or, are you letting old habits or patterns and fear-based thinking guide the choices you make.

Answer this question for yourself now. Take a moment to think about a decision you've made in the past week. It can be any decision that has some "energy" around it. Allow yourself to step aside and observe yourself and the process you went through in coming to the decision. And, notice what guided your thoughts as you moved through the process. It's likely you either don't know what your thought process was and you just made the decision based on your former decision making patterns. Or, maybe you're seeing what your thought process was and realize it may have had some old "baggage/fear" attached to it.

Since unconsciousness and fear are never good things to bring into making a decision, I want to share with you a few guiding questions you can use the next time you are facing a choice These guiding questions are for any choice you have to make, not only the "big" ones. So, begin using them today and you'll find a lot more peace in the process.

1) What do you really want?
Often times when it comes to making a decision, it's easy to forget about what you really want. Old patterns and habits can cause you to think about what you should do, rather than what you want to do. It's important you take notice here to determine if you're making a decision out of a "should" or a "want." It's always better to decide out of your wants, because if you get wrapped up in the "shoulds" you'll make decisions that bring you further away from expressing who you really are.

2) What is best for you?
Another common default in making choices, is to make them based on what's best for everybody else. (This is related to the "should" syndrome.) But, your true decisions come from knowing what is best for you. Herein lies a challenge for many people because they've been so focused on what's best for everyone else, that they don't even know what's best for them. This will take some inner inquiry to first identify what is truly best for YOU, and then make your decisions from that place.

3) What is your higher self saying to you?
Sometimes when you're making a choice, it's easy to get bogged down in the practicality and the details of the choice. Your perspective can become distorted if you look at the decision too closely. It helps tremendously to rise above the situation, to a higher perspective (that of your higher self) to be able to see everything that's at play regarding your decision. From that elevated perspective it gets much easier to see clearly and make decisions from a larger perspective rather than from the immediate situation in front of you.

These three questions are ones I use for myself when I'm faced with choices in my life and business. They are very powerful tools for self-reflection and self-understanding that will lead you to making decisions that are fully aligned with your highest and best self. It is from that place WITHIN YOU that you'll get what you need to experience all of the freedom (and success) you desire.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Opening Up to Receive

2009-06-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself struggling in your business? You feel like you're doing everything right, but still something's not clicking into place? For many conscious entrepreneurs, the difference between experiencing the success they're looking for... or not... is the difference between being able to ask for and receive what they want, need and desire.

Right now, I'd like you to think about a time when you felt totally "in the flow" of receiving. Perhaps you received a surprised gift in the mail, maybe an unexpected client called to work with you, maybe the help you needed showed up at just the right time in just the right way. These acts of receiving can feel like pure magic and give you a glimpse of how graceful and ease-y success can be.

But, in order to be open to receiving, first you need to ask for the gifts you want to receive. For some entrepreneurs the simple act of asking makes all of the difference in the world. However, when it comes to asking, many people feel like it's not OK to ask for what they need or want. This fear can be rooted in your experience growing up, a recent experience in which asking for something lead to pain, or from a gazillion other things.

But, for each one of you who are ready to stretch and grow within yourself and in your business, asking is essential. Just think of all the places asking comes into play in your business; asking for the money, asking for help, asking for someone's endorsement/testimonial, asking for a referral, asking someone for an interview, etc. Some people run up against a rather loud "monkey mind" when it comes time to ask someone for something... almost like it's an imposition. When, the truth is most people are waiting to be asked to help out.

Where I recommend you begin asking, is in the privacy and silence of your heart and soul. Allow yourself to begin asking the Universe/God/Creator for that which you desire: perhaps you'll ask for clarity; or for a tangible sign to point you in a certain direction; or to be directed to the right person, information or resource you need; or for the next door to open for you; etc.

I find it best to do this in writing in my journal. I write a simple "Memo to God" and ask for what I need guidance on. Simply letting yourself exercise your asking muscle with God, allows you to strengthen that muscle so you can comfortably ask people for what you need. Little by little, asking will become a very natural and comfortable experience for you.

What you'll discover by asking is that people want to help you. Just the other day I was on the phone with a colleague when an opening occurred for me to ask for her support in a campaign I have coming up in August. She thought for a moment and reminded me that she rarely promotes other people's businesses, but because of the work I do, she'd be happy to support me. If I didn't ask her, I never would have known she'd be open to helping me. This is how the Universe works!

OK, getting back to your memo to God and asking for what you desire from the Universe... when you ask, ask from the place of believing that your request is already being answered. Then, once you are done journaling your request, take a few minutes to close your eyes and breathe as you create a space within you that is fully open and ready to receive the gifts. Release any attachment to how you want the gift to show up and trust the Universe/God/Creator knows what is best for you.

Once you've asked and opened to receive, begin to look for signs in your life that indicate your requests are being answered. This may come in a random email that crosses your inbox, someone you meet at an event, a moment of profound clarity, a deep connection with a friend or colleague, a book someone gives you, etc. Signs and gifts show up in numerous ways, but you will miss them completely if you are not open to receiving them, or have attachments to how you want them to show up.

So, allow yourself to ask, open yourself to receive and then look for evidence that the Universe is conspiring for your highest good. Because, it always is!

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

How to Stop Spinning Your Wheels and Fully Enjoy Your Business

2009-06-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

I got off the phone yesterday with a colleague who reminded me of myself. (Well, he reminded me of my past self.) He had experienced a good level of success, was respected by his colleagues, had a wonderful family and all the clients he could ask for.

But, there was something very wrong. He was exhausted, overworked, stressed out, and feeling like his life was his business... missing out on the other things that meant a lot to him.

I call this the "spinning your wheels" syndrome. It happens when you find yourself constantly running on the hamster wheel of your business (and your life). Only to realize that when you "get" to where you think you want to go, it's not what you had envisioned. The "success" experience falls flat in comparison to what you thought it would be. Where is the bliss? Where is the freedom? Where is the joy from doing the work you love so much? Ahhhh... these are all very good questions.

And, here are three steps you can take immediately that'll help you get off the never-ending "merry go round" of your business and enjoy more ease in your life. These were the very steps I took to shift things in my business to a place where I truly love my business and my life.

Step 1: Create Your Personal Definition of Success
When it comes to experiencing entrepreneurial success, so often we see that definition being (according to the external world) about financial success. However, if the sole focus of a business is on financial reward, your life will be compromised in that pursuit.

It's important as you look at redefining success for yourself, that you look at the entire picture of success. Here are some things to consider as you contemplate this... that go beyond your financial goals. What is the work that truly calls to your soul? How do you want to spend your time in your business? What types of clients do you want to work with? How many hours a week do you want to be working on your business? Do you want to offer more products or services, or cut back on your offerings? What kind of team do you need in place to help you experience your definition of success? How involved are you with your team? Do you want to travel for your business, or stay closer to home? What support do you have on your journey?

These are all questions to consider as you define what real success means to you. You'll see that success is about much more than money... it's about fulfillment, peace of mind and joy in your life.

Step 2: Reevaluate Your Business
Once you've gotten clarity on your personal definition of success, it's time to take a closer look at your current business. It's important to give yourself a half day (or preferably a day) to step back from the operations of your business, and focus on the big picture. Too often, I see entrepreneurs who are working to create a business based on someone else's model of success. But, in this step, the only model you need to allow to emerge is the one that works for you.

As you reevaluate your business, identify if there is anything you're doing that you don't want to do? On the other hand, are there things you want to do, but aren't getting to? Are there aspects of your business that you think you "should" do, but they just aren't working for you? Once you evaluate your current business, turn your focus on creating a vision for the business you really want. If you could create anything for yourself in your business, what would that be? This type of reevaluation is a necessary step in getting your "wheels to stop spinning" and fully enjoying your business.

Step 3: Be Proactive
Being proactive is a key step to take your insight and clarity from the previous two steps and create positive change for yourself. When you do this type of work (to create your personal definition of success and reevaluate your business), chances are you'll see some things that require a change to be made.

But, it's up to you to take your new understanding and shift something in your business as a result. Nothing is more painful than knowing it's time to make a change, yet not being proactive to it. This has been the step that's allowed me to release entire businesses, projects, strategies, or programs that didn't fit with what I saw for myself, my life and business. As a result, more aligned opportunities keep showing up for me, and I'm feeling more fulfilled in my business (and my life) than ever before.

These three simple steps aren't necessarily easy, but they are indeed simple. If you feel like you're spinning your wheels in your business and want to enjoy your life more fully, you owe it to yourself to give yourself the gift of time to follow these three steps and move forward toward the business and life you truly want.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Taking Responsibility for Your Own Actions

2009-06-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

re-spon-si-ble

Definition: answerable or accountable, as for something within one's power, control, or management

What do you think of when you contemplate the word responsible? I want you to be honest with yourself here. Do you secretly wish you weren't responsible for as much as you are? Are you trying to get out of responsibilities because they're just "too much"? Have you been unrealistic about how much you can commit to and still uphold your responsibilities? Do you find yourself blaming others for things that don't go your way?

I believe for entrepreneurs, responsibility can be a very loaded term. Let's face it, we all want to feel responsible for our successes when they occur, but it's no fun taking responsibility for your failures, too. But, alas, this is part of the conscious entrepreneur's journey; being awake and aware to both sides of the coin when it comes to responsibility.

The truth is responsibility isn't a very "hot" or "sexy" topic. Responsibility brings you face to face with the more challenging aspects of being an entrepreneur. I learned this the hard way by having gone through a few failures in my past, both with my Los Angeles based yoga studio and my Network for Empowering Women Entrepreneurs. Both of these businesses had a certain level of success, but not enough to be sustainable over the long run and I had to shut them down. It was painful to look at the truth that I was responsible for what happened with those businesses.

Granted, if I had them both to do over again today, I would change many things and I see exactly how I'd set those businesses up for long-term success. But, I have no intention of starting these business over again at this point, but I do feel I can share some thoughts that may help you feel fantastic about being responsible for your own success.

Here are three key considerations for loving your responsibilities... and owning them fully:

Don't Bite Off More Than You Can Chew

This is one of the most pressing issues I see with entrepreneurs. It's so easy for us to get excited about many, many things. Often entrepreneurs will bite off more than they can chew. The reason many business owners do this is because they don't realize how much effort will go into a particular project. They make their timelines too short, their goals too aggressive and then get overwhelmed and discouraged when a project takes a long time and doesn't reach it's goals.

If you read my article last week, you noticed that I'm taking my own advice into consideration and releasing a few projects that I just don't have the time, or energy to do right now. I had bitten off more than I could chew. The important thing here is to try not do to this in the first place, but if you do you've got to take steps to recognize you've committed to too much, and make some adjustments so you feel you don't have too much on your plate.

Hear What People Are Saying To You

Another mistake entrepreneurs make is a totally unconscious response of not hearing what people are telling you. This is easy to do when you're excited about something and you want to live in the "honeymoon" of your idea. This is an intoxicating state of bliss, and it's challenging to get grounded into some of the input you're getting on your project.

This happened to me with my women's networking group. I kept hearing from the women at the meetings that it was something very special, and I better prepare myself for rapid growth. I didn't listen. I didn't want to complicate things. I didn't want the responsibility of running yet another business when the one I already had was struggling. So, I embarked on a "stop gap" approach to that business, rather than hearing what everyone told me in the beginning. Had I only "heard" what they said, I'm sure that business would be thriving today. So, if you notice you're doing this in your business... letting important input go in one ear and out the other like you never even heard it... listen up! This is the Universe speaking to you through the people you've placed in your life. It's worth paying full attention to what they're saying, because their input may be guiding you toward taking on your responsibility with a lot more ease, grace and fun!

Notice if You're Placing Blame on Others

This one is a big tell-tale sign that you don't want to take responsibility for your own success. This one isn't particularly fun to look at, but it is extraordinarily valuable to do this self-evaluation. Simply notice... is there something in your business or your life that isn't working right now. Identify what that is, and see if you are placing blame on someone else for the situation you are in.

Believe me, I understand that sometimes things happen to you, but even then, how you respond (versus react) is your responsibility. How you learn from a situation and use it to discover more about yourself and your relationship to responsibility can make a huge impact on your success. Everything that occurs in your business is a learning oppor^tunity... remember every single thing that happens is happening for one purpose and one purpose only; because the Universe is conspiring for your highest and best at all times. Even those situations where you want to blame; chances are those are the places you have the greatest gifts waiting for you.

When you take these three concepts into consideration in your business, you'll find it much easier be fully engaged and happy in your commitments. You'll also feel confident that you can be (and WANT to be) responsible for your own success. This is one of the most exciting aspects of being a conscious entrepreneur; there's nobody that can create your success, but you. Yes, of course, you have coaches, consultants and mentors to help you along the way, but ultimately your success is up to you.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Top 3 Times that Say it's Time for a Change

2009-06-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

Being a conscious entrepreneur is a demanding lifestyle choice. Yes, it is one of the most fulfilling, rewarding, joyous and lucrative paths you can take but, it requires constant energy, focus and awareness to make it work for your highest and best good.

One of the things that is necessary for all conscious entrepreneurs to do, is to be awake enough in your business (and your life) to notice when a change is necessary. But, sometimes, when you're buried underneath a long "to do" list, multiple projects, deadlines, client demands and marketing... it can be challenging to get your head high enough above the water to notice the larger, deeper changes that need to happen.

In order to help you get clarity on whether or not it's time for change to occur in your business, here are three tell-tale signs to look out for. If one of these signs is present in your business or your life... it's definitely time for re-evaluation, and change. Remember as you review these signs that the simple act of noticing that something may not be working is a step in the right direction. First, you've got to notice that something isn't working, then you're in a powerful position to make some new choices and create a new experience for yourself.

OK... so breathe deeply and see if any of these sound familiar to you:

1) You're Too Busy For Your Own Good
If you're the type of entrepreneur who always feels like you're too busy to get to what really matters in your business, it's definitely time for re-evaluation. Many entrepreneurs find themselves wrapped up in busy detail work and not working on the larger, more important things in their business like relationship building, marketing, customer service, product/program development, etc.

This is definitely you if you often feel a knot in the pit of your stomach when you think of your "to do" list, if you're letting things slip through the cracks, if you keep procrastinating on the priority projects in your business (especially the ones that are directly related to income generation), and if you feel you don't have time to do what you WANT to do in your business.

2) You're Doing Things You Don't Really Want To Do
Take a look at your calendar for this week. Be honest with yourself and determine of all the things you're scheduled to do, what percentage of those things do you really want to be dong? And, what percentage are things you feel you have to do? If you've got a larger percentage of "have to do's" than "want to do's" it's a sign the time for re-evaluation has come.

If you're too overwhelmed to even begin to look at this, keep breathing, you'll get through it. It's common for entrepreneurs to get wrapped up in so many things that you lose your ability to discern if you're doing something "just to do it" or if it's truly calling to your heart. Simply notice if you ever say to yourself, "I don't feel like doing this." And, that alone will begin to cause the shift you're looking for.

3) You're Not Taking Care of Yourself
Have you been making promises to yourself, but not keeping them because you're too wrapped up in your business? For example, do you tell yourself you're going to workout, eat better, get more sleep, spend time with a friend, take a class for the fun of it, try a new activity, read more, etc... only to discover time and time again, you don't actually do those things you say you want to do to take care of yourself?

Again, if this is you, it's time to do some re-evaluation of your business, and your life. If you're not taking care of yourself as you want to, it's a sign that a shift is brewing. You deserve to have time for yourself and time for your business. And, these shifts will begin to occur once you become aware of the need to take better care of yourself.

So, whether you related to one of these signs or all of them, please take a deep breath right now. These signs are not here as a reason to beat yourself up (because some of you reading this will find it easy to do so). These signs are here for you to increase your awareness, to become more conscious of what it is you're doing that isn't working for you. It's time to stop what my husband calls, "gotta go, gotta go, gotta go syndrome" and begin to slow down enough to SEE what's really going on so you can make shifts to bring more freedom and joy into your business, and your life.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Are You Willing to Lead?

2009-05-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

What does leadership have to do with your success as a conscious entrepreneur? The answer is... everything! In all honestly, it took me a while to realize this. I'd always felt like a leader in some way, but never quite saw how much "being a leader" can have an impact on my business... until recently.

First, in order to be seen as a leader, you need to be willing to step up and lead. And, now more than ever, the world is in need of inspiring leaders like you. (If you're looking for the BEST book on this topic, read Tribes by Seth Godin.)

So, let's look at what is takes to be a leader in your business, and your life.

Connect With Your Mission

To begin with, as a leader, you must have a deep, passionate connection with your mission. Often time, this is not something you sit around and think about until you "figure it out." Rather, your MISSION is something that comes to you from Source and finds YOU. It's YOUR job to release any ego-based thinking that you have to be the one to come up with your mission. The most powerful missions are, by far, the ones that are given to leaders who are willing to listen to their call.

Don't worry, you don't need to be clairaudient (able to hear voices) to get a call. For me, it's simply a feeling that I have inside where I simply "know" what it is I'm supposed to be doing; changing the face of business in the U.S. and the world by leading a movement of conscious entrepreneurs. Once you connect with your mission at a soul level, rather than a logical level, then you can begin showing up as a leader in pursuit of a mission. And, others will begin to follow.

Put An End To "Status Quo"

If there's anything that's gotten our world into the mess it is in today, it's the ongoing acceptance of the "status quo." Let me rephrase the word "mess." We are in a state of rapid, evolutionary growth right now... as individuals, communities, nations and global citizens. And, it's the issues we're facing today ("the mess") that are bringing awareness to some much needed change... while birthing a whole new way for us to BE together at the critical point in time. All of the "breakdown" is indicative of a breakTHROUGH! And, that requires an end to the "status quo."

Business as usual, also known as the "same old, same old" just isn't working anymore. It is time for NEW models, new strategies, new ways of working together, and NEW leadership. And, that's where YOU come into play as a leader in your conscious business. You've got to look around you and anywhere you feel yourself sliding into the "status quo"... take a closer look. Is there a new way you can do what you're doing? Is there a new way to BE with your clients? Is there something new that wants to be birthed through you to put an end to the "same old, same old?" Saying yes to the creation of something new (perhaps where NO model exists yet) sets you apart as someone who is willing to be a leader.

Go Beyond The Point Where Others Quit

Lately, I've had many people (especially my coaching clients) tell me how much they appreciate my willingness to lead them, and this movement of conscious entrepreneurship. I asked one of them recently why they thought I was a leader? And, the response I got was this: they said I was willing to go beyond the point where others would quit. Ha! Isn't that the basic truth of all leaders? Look at Mother Theresa, Gandhi, Martin Luther King... they're all incredible leaders who went far beyond where many others would have quit. And, they all changed the world through their leadership.

What about you? Do you quit when the going gets tough? Or, are you UNwilling to quit because you are so committed to your mission that you just won't give up. I know you've heard the expression, "where there's a will, there's a way." I don't believe that so much anymore. Mere will can only get you to a certain point... and it's usually because of a LOT of hard work. Whereas, being a leader who is committed to a mission can get you MUCH farther, with a lot more ease. Why? Because people NEED to be lead. They are looking for leaders to follow. (Don't believe me... let me tell you again to go read Tribes by Seth Godin). Now more than ever, people are looking for strong, powerful leaders to follow.

So, I ask... are YOU willing to lead?

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

When is "Enough", Enough?

2009-05-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

"The million" honestly doesn't mean anything in a business until you have a better whole view of the business; its mission, vision, purpose, and financials.. and an idea of the priorities and lifestyle vision of the business owner.

Many of you feel like you "should" hit the million-dollar mark because that's what you see other people doing, (and we all know how over-marketed and over-hyped that is so I'll spare you any more of that).

The truth is if a $75,000 business serves your mission, vision, purpose and expenses just fine and you are HAPPY with that, there's no reason to grow to a million if you don't want to. Striving for someone else's dream only leaves you feeling exhausted, unfulfilled and "less than" who you truly are. And, that's not what conscious entrepreneurship is about... it's about doing what's right for YOU, right now to fulfill your purpose and mission here on earth, and feel JOY while doing so. There is no where to "get," it's about the journey of your soul's expression through your business, and your life.

Which brings me to the second part of the answer to my colleague's "enough is enough" question. It became clear to me that "enough will be enough" when I see a change in how business is conducted in the United States and the world... where business actually becomes the way in which positive change comes about.

After all, commerce is what makes much of the world work (or not work). So, if we can make a change from the bottom-up... from small businesses just like yours to massive corporations... and truly have a unified model for conscious business to contribute to our evolution... THEN enough will be enough for me.

I've been telling people that I'm happily obsessed with the work I feel I've been called here to do for right now. Believe me, if it were up to my rational thinking mind, I wouldn't be doing half the things I'm doing right now. I'd be spending a lot more time doing nothing; which is exactly the balancing act I'm figuring out for myself. How do I pursue the passionate mission I've been called to, while taking extreme care of myself?

There is so much change to occur in our world as we evolve into a new reality, that I sometimes feel like I have to keep going full steam ahead because the only time it'll be enough is when I SEE large-scale change, (rather than destruction and constriction) when it comes to business... especially in the U.S.

But, full steam ahead doesn't work for very long if I haven't given myself what I need at a deep level to keep going. And, so my own journey continues as I ongoingly reflect on this question of "enough is enough." And, I do my best to be gentle with myself as I discover how to continue on my mission of changing the face of business in the world, while keeping myself nourished, nurtured, relaxed, peaceful, joyful and happy all the while.

It's an exciting journey, indeed... one I'm grateful to be sharing with you.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

There seems to be a sigh of relief and gratitude from many of you who read the first part of this article series last week on how a "million isn't really a million." I appreciate all of your kind responses and your appreciation of the transparency in which I shone light on what seemed to be an energized topic for many of you.

When Is "Enough" Enough?

2009-04-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

Last Monday I was in a total funk. As I mentioned in my greeting, it's easy for me to get overwhelmed with all that is unfolding within and around me and my business right now. So, I was really looking forward to my monthly mastermind call with an invaluable group of colleagues whom I love and trust.

When it came time for me to check-in, my overwhelm was apparent... as I jokingly asked if my colleagues knew how to create more than 24 hours in a day? After we all chuckled (because everyone could relate) one of my colleagues said, "Listen, Christine. You've hit the million dollar mark in your business already, so when is enough going to be ENOUGH? Why do you feel like you have to keep doing more?" He said it with a lot of energized love and care for me and I felt it. It was a really good question.

I answered him. First by saying, "Well, a million dollars really isn't a million dollars. It's not like I'm rolling in money and don't have to think about it anymore." Then, I continued to say, "You know, I'm not sitting on a million dollars in the bank or anything, I've still got to pay attention to cash flow and the continued growth of my business."

I proceeded to share with my colleagues how the numbers were calculated for me to receive the million-dollar entrepreneur award and what was left after determining how much it COST me to generate those kinds of numbers.

For the purpose of the award, the income calculation was based on all of my 2008 revenue plus total SALES in January 2009 (the month of my Freedom Formula Experience in Los Angeles.) Notice I didn't say revenue that came in January, I said sales... some of those sales were paid in full and counted as January revenue but many of them were for programs that had 12-month payment plans. So, rather than having all that money in hand, I had account receivables for 2009 totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Then, I explained what my expenses were to reach the million dollar level of revenue, and they quickly began to see that "a million really isn't a million." Yes, according to how the award was calculated I hit that mark. But, now that I'm a few months out from of all the celebration, intensity and attention; I've been much more grounded in what that million-dollar number really looks like for me and my business. And, the truth is, it's not enough money for me to have as much of an impact as I want to have in changing the face of business in the United States and around the world.

My colleagues now understand why I "do" a lot, and why I have multiple projects underway simultaneously... and also why sometimes I'd like more than 24 hours in a day. I still need, and more importantly WANT, to grow my business and explore new and improved ways to make a difference to entrepreneurs who believe in a conscious approach to business. And, I trust my sharing this with you is an example of what conscious business looks like.

It's important to me that you have a clear understanding of who I am and not an inflated view of me as a million-dollar entrepreneur. So, I felt that if my mastermind colleague would ask me a question about "the million", that some of you may have had the same question in your own mind.

I'm so grateful this question was asked; it brought light to something everyone in the mastermind related to. Now as a result, at our next meeting we've agreed to bring our profit and loss statements and review them together so we can all get a true barometer of the financial health of our business, and what it'll take to continue to expand our business and message. Is this a vulnerable thing to do? Absolutely! I can't think of anything more vulnerable in a business than revealing your profit and loss statements... it's like being naked. But, isn't that the path of a conscious entrepreneur? Yes, indeed it is.

Stay tuned next week as I share the second part of my answer to this question.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Follow Your Intuition

2009-04-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

There I was, in my hotel suite just two hours before I was to do my first big "sale from the platform." You may know what this is, but just in case let me explain. "Selling from the platform" is the term used when a speaker transitions into their "product pitch" at the end of their talk and tries to get the audience to buy what they're selling.

Well, I don't know about you, but I really don't like this experience. It always feels canned, forced and somewhat uncomfortable to me. And, here I was about to do this myself, and I was sick to my stomach. I was sitting in my room with about four other people getting a lot of coaching around what to say, how to say it, what order to say things in, when to pause, when to drive home a point, etc.

The clock was ticking, and I had to get back to my event to give the talk that would lead to this "pitch." As I walked out of the room, I told my husband I couldn't do it. I felt so upset inside, that I knew I couldn't do what everyone was saying I had to do to "hit my numbers."

I had to make a choice right then and there. Was I going to do what everyone told me to do? Which was what I had seen countless others do before and what was the only rational and proven way to go about "the sale"? Or, was I going to follow my intuition, forget all the coaching about how to make a pitch, go completely unscripted, surrender to the moment, speak from my heart and make a genuine, authentic invitation for people to work with me further?

The awful feeling I had when I thought about trying to do it how I was "supposed to" was enough to make me take a huge leap of faith, follow my intuition, and make an invitation in the only way that felt right to me... genuinely and authentically, with love and care for myself and everyone in my audience.

The experience was absolutely incredible. To this day, I have no conscious understanding of how it happened, but as I took the stage and transitioned into making my invitation, I slipped into a meditative state that allowed my heart to speak... peacefully, powerfully, honestly and directly. I was so "in my zone" my husband joked that I must have smoked something before I took the stage. I seemed to be floating in a world of my own as I invited people to join my Freedom Circle Mastermind. I felt completely calm, peaceful, relaxed, authentic and fr^ee.

It was one of the most liberating experiences of my life... to forget what everyone told me to do, follow my intuition instead, feel total bliss, let go of expectation and trust that All is Well... no matter what happened.

However, the result of my intuition-based approach was overwhelming. I had planned for a maximum of 15 clients in my Freedom Circle Mastermind, but had 30 entrepreneurs who wanted to join (DOUBLE what I envisioned) and ended up creating two mastermind groups! I doubt these stellar results would have happened if I ignored my intuition and introduced the Freedom Circle Mastermind with the same calculated approach I'd seen a gazillion times before.

So, now that you've seen my example of how following your intuition can have a huge impact on your business, it's time to think about YOUR business. Is there something you're doing because you think you "should" be doing it (but it doesn't resonate with you at all)? Do you feel like you're trying to force a square peg into a round hole? Take note of this feeling and begin to listen to what you're experiencing inside. Allow yourself to release the "shoulds" and decide to do one thing differently today based on your INTUITION instead.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Going the Extra Mile for Your Clients

2009-04-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

On your journey of conscious entrepreneurship, I wonder if you've noticed the duality that I've seen when it comes to "going the extra mile" for your customers and clients... or not "going" at all.

Last month, I had the great pleasure of meeting Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos.com. Under Tony's leadership Zappos grew their gross merchandise sales from $1.6M in 2000 to over $1 billion in 2008 by focusing relentlessly on customer service. Literally, Zappos.com has been built on an incredible company culture and on customer service that beats all customer service. This is a company that goes far beyond the extra mile to keep their customers coming back over and over again. And, it's making a huge impact on their bottom line.

The other end of the spectrum seems to be companies who believe their successful status allows them to be less customer service driven, and more about the distance they create between themselves and their customers/clients... the philosophy being that the more unreachable the company is, the better it is for elite positioning in the marketplace.

And, here's my two cents on this topic, based on my own experience...

Go The Extra Mile

I'm a firm believer in going the extra mile. Perhaps it was my childhood experience as an arts 'n crafts facilitator at the local park (constantly trying to do the best thing to keep parents and kids coming back for more), or my later experience as a fitness trainer who kept my clients for years rather than months (like most trainers). But, somewhere along the line I learned that going the extra mile works wonders... and resonates more with my philosophy than the "keep your distance" approach to business.

Here are a few examples from my recent experience that may help drive this home for you:

Example #1:
At the inaugural Freedom Formula Experience this past January, I told my event manager I wanted to be in the seminar room on Thursday morning when the doors opened to allow attendees in. She was a bit surprised because she hadn't had that request before from other clients. Most of her clients stayed back stage until they were formally introduced at the front of the room.

But, for me, it was important to greet my seminar attendees and connect with them prior to taking the stage. They travelled from across the US, Canada, Australia and the UK to be there, so it only felt right for me to say "hello" as they entered the room. The surprise benefit was hearing from everyone how much they loved seeing me there giving out hugs; and it gave me a HUGE boost of energy and enthusiasm as I took the stage that morning. Going the extra mile served them... and me. Everybody was happy!

Example #2:
I have the great pleasure of working with 24 of the most incredible entrepreneurs in my Freedom Circle Mastermind; one of whom happens to be a Twitter expert. Well, if you read about my experience as a "Twitter snob" you know Twittering is a whole new world that I'm learning bit by bit. It just so happens that most of my Freedom Circle clients are also Twitter challenged... so I decided to "go the extra mile" and do something about it.

It was so simple (and obvious) how I could serve everyone on their Twitter journey. I simply asked my client, Julie Isaac (the Twitter genius), if she'd allow me to interview her about Twitter and we'd invite everyone in my Freedom Circle mastermind to attend the interview. She was ecstatic about the oppor^tunity to begin teaching what she knows about Twitter; I was thrilled because I was going to learn more about how not to be a Twitter snob; and all of my coaching clients were so happy they got to learn about Twitter especially because it was an unexpected bonus that was above and beyond what I'd promised them in the Freedom Circle Mastermind. Again, going the extra mile served everyone involved... it was a win/win/win all the way around.

I share these examples only to get your mind thinking about what you want your approach to be, and what you can do to solidify that approach. So, if you're aligned with "going the extra mile" I encourage you to take a look at your current customers and clients, and identify at least one thing you can do to "go the extra mile" to help them succeed today.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

How to Be Your Authentic Self in Business, Part 2

2009-04-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

Authenticity in business is going to be the only way to thrive as our business climate continues to evolve and transform along with the rest of our world. I'm sure you can feel this shift happening on multiple levels as news of the "real" world clearly indicates (as Rev. Michael Beckwith says) a BIRTHQUAKE is happening.

And, in the birthing of a new way of life on planet Earth, for those who choose to be part of this evolution and part of the change that causes a positive transformation... it's going to be essential that you stay grounded in your authentic self, and remain true to who you Divinely are.

So, who are you? And, how is your authentic self expressed? For me, I believe this boils down to one thing that lives inside all of us, and that is LOVE!

Think about this for a moment. What would our financial/business world look like today if everyone in business operated from a place of love? It's easy to imagine, as it would likely be the exact opposite of the large scale demise we're seeing in the traditional "old paradigm" of business. Yes, what would be possible for our world if business were truly based on love?

I can tell you from my own experience the more I bring love into my business, (and the way I express myself through my business), the more success I enjoy, the more fulfilled my clients feel, the more growth and understanding I embrace, the more resources manifest, the more energy I experience, the more grace I feel, the more I love myself... as the cycle of love spirals upward again.

Now, I understand you may be wondering exactly how love shows up in my business, so let me share an example with you that I think will drive home this important point.

Loving My Audience

As I sat a few weeks ago at the speaker's table in the back of David Neagle's seminar room, I felt a nudge inside of me. The nudge said to completely dismiss the talk I had prepared to give that night. "What? Are you crazy?," I said to myself. But, but, but... but my PowerPoint was done for the talk already; but I was supposed to craft a speech that would lead to a sale at the end of my talk; but I didn't have time to put together a new talk; but what if I blew it changing course at the last minute? But, still... the nudge remained.

So, during lunch I mentioned to the friends I was with that I had this feeling I should throw out the talk I was going to give and speak directly to something I felt very strong about on an energetic level while I was sitting in the room. I told them what my nudge said, and they confirmed 110% that I DID need to scrap my old talk and talk about what I felt needed to be talked about.

So, when I thought about what was at stake both for me and the hundreds of people in the audience, here's what I discovered. What was at stake for me in changing my talk last minute was not looking good, not having time to create a new PowerPoint, not having the space to truly reflect on what I wanted to communicate, etc. (These are things that in the past likely could have stopped me from listening to the nudge.)

Then, as I thought about my audience and what was at stake for them (if I kept myself safe and didn't listen to my inner guidance), what became clear to me is they would leave the event not getting what they needed to take what they learned and truly integrate it into their business and their life.

As soon as this reality struck me, my love for the people in the audience quickly made my decision for me and I followed my heart and gave the talk I was inspired to give, rather than the one I had well prepared.

The result of choosing LOVE instead of fear was phenomenal. Every word of my talk felt touched by grace as I felt guided to share exactly what needed to be shared, when it needed to be shared, without having my rational mind get in the way. And, the response and gratitude I heard from so many of the attendees was overwhelming. So many people thanked me for following my intuition, for being authentic and willing to risk "not looking good" in order to deliver what I felt they needed.

So, this is how LOVE shows up as authentic expression in business. It's about making the decision that is best for the people you are meant to serve, rather than making the decision that will best serve you. True authentic expression in business comes most naturally when you embrace that you and your business are here to love, and to serve. Let that guide you and I assure you grace will bless every step of your journey.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

How to Be Your Authentic Self in Business

2009-04-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

I love being on the stage! As a child and young woman, I performed as a competitive figure skater, jazz dancer and competitive swing dancer. (I've got a collection of medals and awards to show for it.) However, since 1997 my time on stage has been in the form of sharing my message as a speaker and teacher. And, my "performance" has completely changed during that time.

You see, in order to authentically share my message in a way that would have an impact on my audience, I had to completely let go of my drive to "perform." But, let me tell you, the "performance" drive was so ingrained in me it took a lot of "undoing" for me to release the expectations I had on myself (and any expectation I thought my audience was putting on me).

Honestly, I used to worry about every detail of my performance, as if there were still a panel of discerning judges waiting to critique my every move.

Ahhhh, but there WAS a panel of extremely critical judges in my OWN mind; until I learned how to be completely 100% authentic, transparent, honest and open when I am "on stage" and off! This authenticity completely eliminated my drive to "perform" and also got rid of the judges in my head while making a HUGE difference in the impact and connection I have with my audience.

So, what does it look like to give up your performance and step into your authenticity... in business?! Over the course of the next few weeks, I'll share some examples from my own experiences in hopes these will give you a glimpse of how to be your authentic self in YOUR business.

Speak From Your Heart

In my desire to help more people and make a difference when I speak, I did a lot of research to discover the "style" in which to speak so I could make a lasting connection with my audience. I studied with a few mentors that were considered by many to be the "masters" in the field of speaking. These experts had their talks down to a science. Literally; every gesture, every joke, every inflection in their voice, every nod and smile were perfectly executed.

However, these types of presentations always felt sleazy and calculated to me; as if the speaker didn't really care about the audience. Needless to say, I quickly dismissed what I learned from them and decided to find my own voice! And that's the best way for you to share your authentic self, too.

Finding your own voice requires you to connect with yourself, connect with the love in your heart and the light you want to share with others. Yes, it's important to have a few key points in mind to talk about, but what truly gets your audience on board (whether it's 1 person or 1000 people) is how they FEEL when you're talking. Here are some questions to think about from the perspective of your audience/your listener:

Do they feel that you truly care about them?
Do you come across as authentic to them?
Do they feel like you have their best interest in mind?
Do you show up as the same person on stage as you do when you're off stage?
Are you aligned with your message?
Do you feel "real" to them (rather than polished and perfect)?

These things are what truly matter to every person you talk to in your business. Take some time to contemplate these questions to best assess where you stand now in being authentic with your clients, prospects and audience members.

And, remember, when you forget about what you think you "should" be doing and focus on speaking from your heart, your authentic self shows up... every time!

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Sit Down and Write!

Last week I spoke with an energetic, and excited aspiring author. She had tons of great ideas and had done much of the foundation work to build her book on solid ground... and use it to grow her business. However, she was stuck on the "writing part." I hear this often from aspiring authors. Many times the book is completely written WITHIN them, but they don't have word on paper. If this is you, I've only got 4 words to say: "Sit Down and Write!" Sometimes you've got to turn off the phones, go sit at Starbucks, take a train trip, or hop on a plane to get focused time to write. But, it's got to be done. Our Get Your Book Done® program makes it as easy as "paint-by-number" to write your book... but YOU still need to write it. So, look at your calendar right now and make at least three appointments with yourself to write your book.

If you're interested in growing your business as a published author, please visit www.LoveYourLifePublishing.com where you'll get my FR^EE audio on "3 Insider Secrets That Will Help You Write Your Book the RIGHT Way."

How to Succeed as a Conscious Entrepreneur (Part 4)

2009-03-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

There was a time in my business when I simply did whatever was put in front of me to be done. I was a task-master without a clear vision of where I was taking my business. (I felt as if the ship were steering me more than I was steering it!) You see, I started in business prior to having a solid understanding of some of the most basic success principles. And, it wasn’t until later in my entrepreneurial career that I started learning more about how to experience real (and satisfying) success.

On this journey of understanding true success, I was blessed with interviewing some of the most successful people in business. Today’s article features two of these experts who share key principles that were true turning points in my entrepreneurial career.

Insight #1: “Determine whether you’re in a dip or a cul-de-sac. If it’s a cul-de-sac, get out; if it’s a dip, stick it out.”
Wisdom From: Seth Godin, Author of The Dip

I remember when I first heard about Seth Godin’s book, The Dip. At the time, I was running my former business (NEW Entrepreneurs) and trying hard to make it work. I was stuck in that place of not knowing if I should continue with it or let it go. Then, after reading Seth’s book, I got a clear answer and was so moved by his wisdom that I contacted him for an interview… and he said YES!

During the interview with Seth, he helped me (and hundreds of entrepreneurs listening to the call) get a deeper understanding of how to know whether you’re in a cul-de-sac or a dip. He shared that a dip is simply the extraordinarily challenging part every aspiring entrepreneur goes through before they break through to success; whereas a cul-de-sac is when no matter how hard you try, things will never break through… basically they’re not going to change (at least with that endeavor). While this was difficult information to absorb, it made all the difference in the world in helping me gain the confidence to release my business that was in a cul-de-sac. It was the decision to let go, that created the opening for the success I’m experiencing today.

Something To Think About: Is there an aspect of your business you may need to release because you’re stuck in a cul-de-sac?

Insight #2: “Design your business to create an extraordinary life.”
Wisdom From: Ali Brown, Million-Dollar Entrepreneur Coach

As I shared in the beginning of this article, I used to let my business steer me, rather than me steer it. One of the most influential mentors I’ve had to help me change this is Ali Brown. Ali was the first entrepreneur who helped me “get” that it was my responsibility (and right) to design my business to support the life I dreamed of. Not knowing this information when I got started, I had let my business run my life rather than create it in a way that supported me and my vision for my life outside of business.

When I interviewed Ali on the topic of “designing your business” it was the first time she shared the seven simple principles she used to design her own business to create an extraordinary life. The most important thing I learned from Ali is that it was OK to have a great life. She helped me break the old pattern of believing that you had to work hard and sacrifice your life to be successful. With her insights, I gave myself permission to create a business on my own terms and not feel guilty about having a great life, too. I also “got” that great for someone else wasn’t necessarily great for me. (You’ve got to define what would make your life great, outside of what anyone else thinks about it.)

Something To Think About: What does an “extraordinary life” look like to YOU? And, is there something you need to shift in your business to support that life?

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

How to Succeed as a Conscious Entrepreneur (Part 3)

2009-03-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

Branding, marketing and sales… oh, my! Many entrepreneurs (including myself when I was learning about business) overlook the importance of these aspects of entrepreneurship. Often, conscious entrepreneurs start a business to help others, make a difference and transform the world; with most of the energy going into creating a website, getting a business card designed and putting together product/service offerings.

These are essential steps. But, there are two additional important aspects of your business you’ve got to consider from the beginning (or beginning TODAY if you’ve been in business for a while). These are two more nuggets I’ve learned from my mentors that have made a big difference in my business success.

Insight #1: “Branding occurs in the minds of your prospects and clients.”
Wisdom From: Patty Azzarello, CEO of The Azzarello Group

When I first heard about branding, I thought it was about creating a logo design and a “look” for my website. Yes, I knew it involved getting clear on my brand statement and mission, but nobody ever told me it penetrated every single aspect of my business. I thought branding was something I did to create a particular experience for my clients. It is… but that’s only HALF of the story.

When I interviewed Patty Azzarello, (who ran a $1 billion software business by the age of 35) it was the first time I actually “got” what branding is. Branding is not something I “do” rather it’s a process that occurs in the mind of my prospects and customers. It’s a DECISION they make about me and my business based on their experience of my business. Patty’s insight completely shifted how I thought about branding, and over the past three years has made a huge impact on my business and my position in the marketplace.

Something To Think About: What decisions are your prospects and customers making about you and your business (based on their experience with your company)?

Insight #2: “You have a responsibility to market your business and share your gifts.”
Wisdom From: Michael Port, Author of Book Yourself Solid

Similar to my experience with branding, I had a very limited understanding of marketing (and sales) when I first started in business. I was turned off to the concept of marketing/selling when the radio station I used to work for in 1989 sent me to a sales training at which I witnessed a “mock” sale that shocked the living daylights out of me. The sales trainer had basically coerced, convinced and strongly persuaded the mock customer to purchase something they honestly didn’t need. Everyone clapped at his sales ability, whereas I wanted to run out of the room. This had been my introduction to marketing/sales.

Thanks to my interview with Michael Port, I finally grasped a true (and aligned) understanding of marketing and sales as something I had a responsibility to offer as a SERVICE to my prospects and clients. Whew… what a relief that was?! I no longer needed to convince or coerce anyone to do anything. Michael helped me see that all I must do was joyfully, confidently and consistently share my offering as a gift of service to those people I believed I could help. That’s the bottom-line of marketing and sales… plain and simple. And, once you embrace this nugget of wisdom, you’ll find it much easier to fall in love with marketing your business… and you’ll have a lot more FUN in the process!

Something To Think About: What would be different for you and your business if you embraced marketing (and sales) as a GIFT to your prospects?

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

How to Succeed as a Conscious Entrepreneur (Part 2)

2009-03-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

Business planning. Team building. These things typically sound too corporate and boring for a conscious entrepreneur. Right? You’d rather create, collaborate, develop, teach, train, coach, write and help people! I understand; I’m the same way. I admit it; when I first heard about business planning and team building, I honestly wondered what place they had in my small entrepreneurial endeavor… weren’t those things only for big business? Did they have anything to do with my small (and struggling) five-figure business? Heck yeah, they did!

It took somewhat of an awakening for me to fully embrace these two principles in my business… thanks to two of the incredible mentors I interviewed over the past three years. Here’s the insight and wisdom that helped me develop business plan, and grow a stellar team that makes my success possible.

Insight #1: “Business Planning Can Be Fun… and Easy!”
Wisdom From: Jim Horan, Author of One Page Business Plan

Before I interviewed Jim Horan, Author of One Page Business Plan, I had attempted, many times, to write a plan for my business… thinking it had to be a 50 page document I would present to a bank to get financing. But, I wasn’t looking for a loan, so I figured I didn’t need a plan. After all, business planning didn’t appear to be any fun; every attempt I made was painful, laborious and boring. Until, I spoke with Jim.

Jim Horan helped me understand that business planning could not only be FUN, but EASY, too. How, you might ask? By writing your business plan on ONE PAGE! (I have mine hanging on the bulletin board in my office and I read/revise it on a regular basis… it’s a working document for my business.) The simple process that Jim taught me during our interview was so motivating that I immediately purchased his book and gathered a group of like-minded colleagues to work on our plans together. It’s always a treat to look at my plan and see my goals being accomplished.

Something To Think About: How would you and your business benefit from having a written plan in place?

Insight #2: “If You Don’t Grow Your Team, You Can’t Grow Your Business”
Wisdom From: Andrea J. Lee, Author of Multiple Streams of Coaching Income

Team building (much like business planning) was something I didn’t think I needed. I seemed to be muddling along OK in my business with one assistant who helped me with administrative details. I just didn’t see how building my team could help me make more mo^ney. My team always felt like an expense to me… a liability rather than an asset. So, I was not very excited about growing my team. But, I kept hearing about it over and over again; so, I did my homework and found an expert on the topic (who I knew and liked) to help me “get” the importance of a team in my own business.

It was in my interview with Andrea J. Lee, that the light bulb went off around team building. She flipped the switch in my mind that got me away from thinking that a team was an expense/liability, into realizing the value of a team as ESSENTIAL to helping me multiply my business. Having a team gives you leverage. It allows you to focus on your areas of brilliance, rather than trudging your way through those things that you dislike (hmmm… perhaps bookkeeping, web maintenance, customer service, answering phones, general admin, etc.) When you take the leap to get help in those areas that are frustrating (and drain your energy) you allow yourself the freedom to focus on what you enjoy which leads to more creativity, energy, joy, focus, enthusiasm, etc. And, THAT is exactly what it takes to grow your business.

Something To Think About: What tasks do you dread doing in your business? Write them down and place your intention on manifesting someone who loves doing them for you!

Stay tuned for Part 3 of this series next week where I’ll share two more nuggets of wisdom with you.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

How to Succeed as a Conscious Entrepreneur

2009-03-04T13:17:00.000-08:00

If there’s one thing you and I should know about success, it’s that it doesn’t happen alone. I once heard Loral Langemeier say “There’s no such thing as a self-made millionaire.” She’s absolutely right. There isn’t. There couldn’t be. Ask any person who has hit six or seven figures in their business and they’ll all tell you they didn’t do it alone. I know this is true for me.

When I got really serious about being a successful and conscious business owner (about 3 years ago), I set out on a mission to learn from those who had already achieved what I wanted to achieve… success with a purpose. I became extremely curious about how other people did this because I wanted to learn from them, model them and implement what they taught me in my own life and business.

This journey led me to interviewing dozens of highly successful conscious entrepreneurs, each of whom gave me nuggets of wisdom that deeply affected my life. My mission for this article series is to share these nuggets of wisdom with you in hopes they will help you reach your goals and dreams.

Insight #1: “Business Is Your Highest Spiritual Understanding Demonstrated”
Wisdom From: Neale Donald Walsch, Author of Conversations with God

I remember the moment vividly. I was conducting an interview with Neale Donald Walsch during my 2nd annual Conscious Entrepreneurs Tele-summit with a hundred listeners on the line… and I began to cry. I had basically gone through all of my interview questions for Neale and still had 15 minutes left in the interview. So, I asked him, “Is there anything else you’d like to share on this topic?” (Praying he’d say something to fill the next 15 minutes of time.) It was then that he told me, and everyone listening, “business is your highest spiritual understanding demonstrated.”

This was the moment everything changed for me. It was the first moment I “got” that business and spirituality are not mutually exclusive. Up until that moment, I had hoped, imagined, dreamed and envisioned that I could be a deeply spiritual person in my life and have a profitable, purposeful business based on spiritual principles. When Neale shared this statement with me, my hopes and dreams turned into KNOWING. That is what made me cry. I finally knew it was possible, and I wasn’t crazy for thinking Spirit and business belonged together.

Something To Think About: What would be possible for you if you allowed your highest spiritual understandings to be demonstrated through your business?

Insight #2: “Just Believe”
Wisdom From: David Neagle, Creator of Experience the Reality of Success

Before learning from David Neagle, I honestly felt that a six-figure business was the biggest business I could imagine for myself. Even though I considered myself a “big thinker”… I was still thinking small. (And, I believed I had to do all the hard work required of a big business owner.) David helped me realize that nothing could be further from the truth; that if I simply believed that a bigger dream was possible for me, the details would be revealed. And, that’s exactly what happened.

It was David who first truly helped me understand the power of my mind to create my reality. I had always known this was true but doubt kept creeping in… or if I’m being 100% honest here, doubt used to whack me on the head on a regular basis. When you believe (not only in yourself, but in the power of the Universe) things begin to unfold. I know this sounds simple; it is. But, it’s not necessarily easy (especially when what appears to be “reality” is telling you to run and hide). But, the journey of believing is worth it, and it can change everything.

Something To Think About: What old belief do you want to let go of (one that no longer serves you)? What positive new belief would you like to replace it with?

I feel so blessed that 3 years ago I began to learn directly from the dozens of mentors and experts I’ve interviewed. It’s their wisdom that continues to help me stay focused and calm when things get tough. So, stay tuned for Part 2 of this series next week where I’ll share two more nuggets of wisdom with you.

How to Become an "Overnight" Success

2009-02-09T16:03:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed entrepreneurs who appear to become successful “overnight”? It’s a bit of a mystery, isn’t it; one day nobody knows who they are and the next day everyone’s talking about them. This is an interesting phenomenon that happens with entrepreneurs, but I assure you... the success rarely happens “overnight.” Granted, there may be an extremely small percentage of true overnight successes; but for most entrepreneurs it’s taken years to reach that level of achievement. How do I know? Because it’s been my personal journey.

After my recent LIVE 4-day Freedom Formula Experience in Los Angeles (which exceeded all of my expectations), I was presented with the first ever David Neagle Million-Dollar Entrepreneur award. The whole gala celebration seemed a bit surreal because I was LIVING the dream I had been envisioning for nearly two decades. Yes, it took me nearly 20 years to become an “overnight” success.

So, what I want to share with you today, are the three key strategies that helped me get to this level of success in my business. For those of you who know me, or who have been following me for several years, these will sound familiar to you... but for those of you who are new to my teaching, my story and my business, get ready for an inside peek at what it really takes to become an “overnight” success.

1) Faith
Faith has been the single most important factor in my success. Now, you may be asking what I’m talking about when I refer to faith. First, let me say that, to me, faith has nothing to do with religion. My personal experience of faith is having the unwavering belief there is something much larger than myself that is helping me expand, grow, evolve and transform through every step of my journey... through the challenging times and the joyous times. Faith is your convincing belief of the greatness that lies within you. It’s knowing that (as Marianne Williamson says) you were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.

2) Commitment
The second factor in my success is being willing to commit 110% to the realization of my highest and fullest potential. Commitment is what kept me going when I experienced multiple failures with previous businesses. Now, keep it mind that commitment is not about persisting and forcing the thing you want to be successful in, rather commitment is about being willing to let go of what isn’t working because of your higher commitment to your Self. For me, this showed up as being committed to experiencing success and freedom, no matter the size or number of obstacles placed in my way. The deep desire I have to make a difference by helping and serving others was the commitment that made me continue exploring new avenues, new opportunities and new openings that helped me get to where I am today.

3) Surrender
Ahhhh... sweet surrender. You may be wondering how surrender can help you become a six or seven-figure entrepreneur. Good question! It took me a long time to “get” this one. Because, for many years I used my will, tenacity, determination and action-oriented mindset to “make” things happen. And, yes, things happened (to a degree). However, when I fully understood what it meant to surrender to where I was being guided...versus where I thought I should be going... everything changed for the better. It was through surrender that I developed my signature Get Your Book Done® program, which lead to the writing of my award-win^ning book, The Freedom Formula, which lead to the creation of The Freedom Formula Experience, which is now leading to so much more (some known already and much more that is unknown). None of this success could have happened if I didn’t surrender to what was being shown to me... and say YES to it.

So, I invite you to reflect on these three strategies of faith, commitment and surrender. And, ask yourself how you can further bring these into your business, and your life.

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Freedom Formula, helps entrepreneurs put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to thrive in your purpose-driven, profitable business (while enjoying a soul-satisfying life), send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Marketing for Conscious Entrepreneurs

2009-01-28T14:22:00.000-08:00

There’s a mistake I see happening everywhere. In fact, it’s one of the biggest mistakes I’ve made in the past. The mistake is this: Many business owners never get clear about WHO their market is, IF there’s a demand for their product or service, or HOW they will market and sell their products or services. They only know that the business idea they were given was a gift from God and therefore it MUST be destined to work in the marketplace!

If you are a business owner with incredible gifts and talents, but you’re unwilling to get serious about sales, marketing and money because you say, “God will provide for me,” listen up. Yes, God does provide. But, remember that money doesn’t drop from the heavens; it is given to you through human hands (your target market’s hands), in exchange for the products and services you provide and sell.

If your idea or dream feels like a spark of the Divine, that is a good start! But even the greatest ideas, the greatest dreams have to be relevant and delivered to your market to secure income and success. So, before you put your big idea into big action, take the following steps. (You’ll thank me later.)

Step One: Research
Research your idea to see if there is already an established market demand for your service or product. This step can be as simple as a Google search to see if other people have successful businesses in a similar area. I also recommend you go to the bookstore and look to see if there are books on the topic your business idea is based on. The more research you do, and the more similar enterprises you find, the better. (Competition means there’s a market for your product/service.)

Step Two: Identify
Identify your specific target market. You need to become crystal clear on who your target market is, because this will help you execute a marketing plan that simultaneously attracts those people you feel called to work with, and repels those people you don’t. Repel may be a strong word, but it’s true. Your Divine gift is not going to be expressed at its highest potential when you have clients who drain your energy, don’t pay you enough money, make mountains out of mole hills and don’t respect your time. And, that’s exactly what happens when you attract the wrong type of client.

Step Three: "Sell"
Finally, you’ve got to get comfortable with selling. I’m not talking about the “cheesy car salesman” type of selling. I’m talking about selling something you believe in because you know your product or service matches the needs of your prospect or client. Take comfort in the fact that conscious business marketing is totally ethical. It has nothing to do with “closing the deal” but everything to do with “opening a conversation” about the ways in which you solve problems for your clients. Sadly, I see many entrepreneurs completely miss the point when it comes to connecting with their market. Without the connection to your market, you have no business. Remember, all successful businesses are the solutions to someone’s problem.

The bottom line is, as a conscious entrepreneur, you have to go beyond the big idea. You must be clear about who your market is and how you can reach them with your message. And, you need to embrace the value of your product or service and ask for what you’re worth!

© 2009 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

4 Simple Steps to Set Your 2009 Intentions

2009-01-06T18:55:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of the year, you may find yourself stuck between celebrating the success of last year, planning for the New Year and perhaps overwhelmed by everything you have on your full plate. You’re not alone. Most conscious entrepreneurs go through this type of celebration, anticipation and yes, sometimes even overwhelm. That being said, the beginning of a new year is the perfect time to take some time to get laser-focused on what you want to experience and manifest this year.

For the past 6 years, my husband and I have always spent New Year’s Day clarifying and writing our intentions for the New Year. This ritual is a highlight of the year and one that continues to catapult growth on all levels, and help me fully prepare for the year... mentally, emotionally, practically and spiritually.

You’ve probably heard that the most powerful thing you can do to manifest your goals is to write them down! There is something about putting your goals in writing that begins to align the Universe to help you realize them (or something better).

The following four step process is one of my personal New Year strategies. I hope you’ll print this out and get started with your intentions today!

Step 1: Complete

The first step to setting clear intentions for the New Year is to feel complete with the events and experiences of the last year. To do this, simply reflect on the past year... beginning back in January. In your mind, run through the year noting the accomplishments, challenges, successes, growth, opportunities and gifts that you experienced. Once you’ve taken time to reflect on the past year, allow yourself to release anything that you may be hanging on to. Take several deep relaxing breaths as you envision completing the year and become fully present to this moment and all the potential that lies ahead for this year.

Step 2: Celebrate

Next, take out a pen and paper and write a list of everything you have to celebrate from the past year. Focus on all areas of your life, including spiritual (connection to God, meditation, spiritual practice, spiritual community, trust in Divine plan, etc.), personal (health, relationships, fulfillment, family, friends, community, love, etc.), financial (overall financial health, income, debt reduction, investments, money management, etc.), business (new strategies, marketing programs, joint ventures, products and services, client successes, gross income, profitability, support, etc.). Take time to complete your list thoroughly and review it to fully embrace your success and evolution this past year.

Step 3: Focus

Once you finish completing and celebrating, now become focused on all that you want to manifest this year. Simply create the picture of this coming year in your mind’s eye, getting a clear vision of what you intend to manifest and experience (don’t write anything down, yet... just envision it in your mind and feel it in your heart). Again, as you did in Step 2 “Celebrate”, be sure to include the areas of spiritual, personal, financial and business.

Step 4: Commit

The last step is to commit your intentions for the year by putting them in writing. This is the most powerful step of the journey; it’s the beginning of taking the vision in your mind and bringing it into reality. There are two different methods I recommend for writing down your intentions for the year, choose the one that feels like the right fit for you: 1) write a description of your year from the standpoint of January 1, 2010 including all the details of what has transpired during this year... be grateful in advance! 2) Write a bullet point-list of your intentions for the year in each of these 4 areas (spiritual, personal, financial and business). You can write your list on index cards putting one area of your life on a different card.

Once you complete this four step process, there is one last BONUS step to include with all of your writings. And, that is to write “this or something better” at the bottom of the paper. Because, as expansive as your intentions and vision for this year are, God/The Universe sees so much more for you. There are gifts waiting for you that you cannot begin to imagine. So, enjoy being clear and energized about this incredible year knowing that you also leave space for miracles to occur.

Put yourself in the right environment for those miracles to occur by getting your New Year in gear at The Freedom Formula Experience January 22-25. You'll walk out with a plan to make this your best and most fulfilling year ever... guar*anteed! www.TheFreedomFormula..com/experience

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

Conscious Business: How to Shed Energetic Weight So Your Conscious Business Can Fly

2008-12-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Does your business ever feel “weighed down” to you? Like there’s something invisible holding it back from reaching its’ (and your) highest potential? This kind of “energetic weight” puts you and your business in a danger zone. And, often times it’s not what’s happening in your business that’s causing the sluggishness; it’s what’s happening in every other part of your life that’s affecting your business’ bottom-line.

If you want to reach your destination (your goals and dreams), you’ve got to identify the “weight” in your life and know how it energetically affects your conscious business. Once you do that, you can begin making the shifts necessary to release these energy drains and let the abundance and joy flow into your life, and your business.

There are two strategies I recommend to help you identify and release those things that are energetically holding you back.

Strategy #1: Take Inventory

One sure-fire way to help your business lift-off is to give yourself the gift of taking an “inventory.” No, this is not the time to count how many products you have ready to ship to customers; rather, this is the time to ask yourself questions that give you clarity on how your feelings, beliefs, stresses, circumstances and attitudes (about every part of your life) are affecting your business. Because, the truth is your business is a reflection of EVERY area of your life.

So, I invite you to begin asking yourself some of these questions. (If you haven’t gotten to it yet, my book The Freedom Formula, goes into a lot more detail on this process.) But, for now, you can begin by reflecting on these areas of your life:

Personal (health, relationships, family, recreation, hobbies, etc.)
Spiritual (faith, love, fulfillment, contribution, etc.)
Financial (gross revenues, expenses, net revenues, investments, savings, debt, etc.)
Business (mission, vision, products/services, operations, team, marketing, fulfillment, etc.)
Simply begin by reflecting on these areas and asking yourself these questions: 1) what is your current experience in that area; 2) what is your level of satisfaction and joy in that area; 3) what are your challenges in that area; and 4) what is your highest vision for that area of your life?

As you do this, be sure to keep in mind that you’re not looking at these areas to identify points of separation. Instead, you’re taking this inventory so you can find threads, themes, consistencies, unity and ultimately a fully integrated picture of your life. Because, it’s your integrated life that’s going to have the greatest impact on your business... that’s when you live in the FLOW, and manifest your desires with ease and with grace.

Strategy #2: Delegate

Another strategy that will help you shed energetic weight is to delegate the things on your to do list that don’t bring you joy. Why? Because when your “to do” list is filled with tasks you don’t enjoy, your energy drops... your frustration increases and the FLOW of everything good basically comes to a halt. On the other hand, when you do those things that bring you joy, you experience MORE joy, more love, more fulfillment, and more light as you feel more connected, more peaceful and more on purpose. Get the idea? It’s a snowball effect. Now, you may be asking yourself, can delegating really help you experience all this? And the answer is yes!

It’s easy to get started. Simply write down a list of everything you do and categorize your “to do” list according to these four categories: 1) don’t like doing; 2) love to do; 3) can be done later; and, 4) not worth doing at all. Once you have your list organized, start with the “delegate” list and identify at least three items you can hand off to someone else. And, use your newly found time to focus on the second category... things you LOVE to do! Then, notice how this shift helps to eliminate some of that “weight” you’ve been feeling in your business.

Using these two strategies (taking an inventory and delegating what you don’t enjoy) are two critical factors that’ll help you step into the abundant flow in your business. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see how implementing these simple strategies will help you feel lighter in your business, more joyful in your life and more easily able to attract more of what you want. Once the energetic weight is gone, the good just keeps on coming!

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

The 4 Components of Conscious Business Success

2008-11-28T12:53:00.000-08:00

I often get asked by colleagues and clients, “What’s it take to really succeed in business during times like this?” First, I tell them that “times like this” don’t have to be their reality. In fact “times like this” are the “best of times” for many entrepreneurs who take a serious (and conscious) approach to their business, and refuse to let the “real world” stop them in their tracks.

Success also requires you to have COURAGE – because you’ve got to be ready to answer some of the tough questions that’ll guide you to your highest and best good as a conscious entrepreneur. And, I have to believe that if you’re reading this article, you have the courage it takes to do just that. Your courage to keep going, (and not quit on your dream) is what will keep you growing in service to others, to your bottom-line, and to the greater good of all!

So let’s take a look at the 4 Components of Conscious Business, which will cause you to ask yourself some of those courageous questions. Use these four components regularly (as a gauge) to see whether or not you are on the right track. And, be ready to make the necessary changes that’ll support you in building your successful, prosperous, and conscious business.

Component #1: A Conscious Business Makes Money
Is your business making money? Is it making enough money to fully support your soul’s purpose in the world? The truth is, you are meant to attract A LOT of money; not for the purpose of acquiring material possessions (and being able to keep up with the Jones’); rather, you’re meant to receive a lot of money so you can do what you were created to do on this Earth. Whether you make $50,000, $500,000 or $5,000,000 per year, now is a good time to take a good look at the bottom-line of your business. And, if you discover your business isn’t built on a model that makes a lot of money, have the courage to ask for help to identify the ways in which you can build a profitable, purposeful business.

Component #2: A Conscious Business Makes a Difference.
Does your business truly make a difference to others? Can you feel the difference you’re making? When you’re operating as a conscious business owner, it’s not just about the money; it’s about being of service and making a difference in the lives of others. For some entrepreneurs to connect with the difference they’re making, they need to look a few layers deep. For instance if you’re not in a business that allows you to connect with the difference you make, take a look deeper to see how those clients and customers you serve are making a difference in the world. Once you’re able to connect with the difference you make (even if it’s a few layers deep), you’ll have more motivation and inspiration to grow your conscious business, because you’ll know the “ripple effect” your work has on the world.

Component #3: A Conscious Business Calls You To Be Fully Who You Are
Does your business allow you to be ALL of who you are? Are you able to be fully expressed in your business without feeling like you have to hide parts of yourself? Being WHO YOU ARE is the strongest asset you can have as a business owner. Why? Because nobody can be you! Nobody can duplicate your heart and soul! And nobody can exude you... other than you! So, this also means that nobody can compete with you. How sweet is that? You get to design your business in a way that lets you be fully you, AND at the same time you naturally eliminate anyone or anything that can be perceived as “competition.” There’s only one you, so capitalize on YOU in your business. Not only will you feel great, but you’ll also become a magnet that attracts only those customers and clients who are a perfect fit for you.

Component #4: A Conscious Entrepreneur Trusts In Their Divine Plan
Do you believe in a higher, Divine plan? How much trust do you have in that larger plan for your business and your life? This fourth component is vitally important to embrace fully as a conscious entrepreneur; because this is the component that turns “times like this” into the “best of times.” This is where you rise above the “reality” of the physical world to connect with the perfect plan that is unfolding for you in each and every moment. Only when you operate your business based on this higher approach will you begin to turn struggle into success, fear into faith, lack into abundance and challenge into triumph.

Now that you’ve learned more about these four components, I encourage you to spend some time truly pondering the questions posed here. Tap into your courage as you ask these questions, discover the answers and take your next steps. The reward will be a business that is filled with purpose, passion and profit!

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

Conscious Business: How Are You Thinking About Your Business? A look at turning thoughts into profit.

2008-11-23T18:53:00.000-08:00

Take a look around you. Every thing you see in the world today was once only a mere thought, a dream, a blueprint. The chair you’re sitting on, your computer, your car, your home, etc. Sometimes it’s easy to take for granted the fact that everything in our world was once only a seed planted in someone’s mind. That’s how powerful thoughts are!

What you think about you bring about! This is why thoughts can create such beautiful things as art, architecture, life-changing books, music, technologies for advancement, etc. Ideas and beliefs can lead you to create a multi-million dollar purposeful business, or they can cause you to struggle forever. In short, right at this very moment, your thoughts are leading you moment by moment towards one of two results... sabotage or success, destruction or creativity, fear or faith. Every thought, intention, idea, image, feeling, experience, success, failure, opportunity and challenge have brought you to where you are in your life right now. Sometimes it’s important to think about your THINKING to understand why you ARE where you are.

Answer me honestly here... have you stopped to really contemplate how you THINK about yourself and your business? If thoughts are in fact the most powerful tool you have, you’ve got to harness their power and master using them wisely so you can build a business that brings you purpose, passion and PROFIT!

In case you haven’t read it yet, I write more about the power of thoughts in my award-winning book The Freedom Formula because your success DEPENDS on your ability to focus on thoughts that serve your highest self, and your grandest vision. I’ve got to believe that if you’re reading this article right now, you agree you’re a powerful being with infinite potential. And, you probably feel READY to take charge of your own life, as the director of your own thoughts... and create the reality you want to experience by living out your highest calling in a profitable way!

Conscious entrepreneurship is about having a positive, lasting impact on the world...through your business. You have a message to share, valuable information that changes people’s lives and you want to reach the ‘masses.’ The reality about fulfilling this vision and dream is that it takes consistent positive thoughts and beliefs to grow and sustain your business at this level of success.

The easiest way to keep your thoughts on the positive is to train your mind to look for the GOOD in everything. Computer’s running slow? Great! It give you time to slow down and focus on something else for a change. Dinner burned? Terrific! Maybe you were supposed to eat something a little more healthy. Whining children driving you crazy? Fantastic! It’s a beautiful opportunity to practice patience. Can you see how something as simple as looking for the good can change everything?

Now, when thoughts of fear, doubt, lack of confidence, unworthiness start creeping in you can look for GOOD here too. Fear shows up so you can have more faith. Doubt shows up so you can learn conviction. Lack of confidence shows so you can see where you need to develop more confidence. And, unworthiness shows up so you can finally discover your true worth. This is called the Law of Polarity, my friends. Every negative thought you have already has the opposite POSITIVE thought within in.

So, no matter what your mindset is, know that in each and every moment YOU have the power to choose a thought that serves you. The power lies within your own mind... so use it, and watch your dreams unfold.

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com

Believe in Your Power to Transform the World

2008-11-13T11:01:00.000-08:00

What would it take for you to BELIEVE you can truly transform the world?

No matter what business you’re in, no matter where you live, no matter what challenge you may be facing right now... you absolutely stand in a place of power to positively transform the world. And, if you’re saying to yourself, “Yeah, that’s easy for you to say, Christine, but you don’t know what I’m going through.” I assure you, I understand because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to believe in your ability to transform yourself (and others) when it appears that nothing is going your way.

Remind yourself of the fact that being alive right now, as the unique being that you are, is a miracle in and of itself! The moment you were conceived you were a miracle, and you continue to be... no matter what may be going on in the world around you.

The reality you live in depends heavily on the conversations that occur in your mind. Your level of belief in yourself (and the power you possess to make a real difference in the world) exists in your mind as well. So, here are some ways you can increase your belief in your ability to transform the world. Keep in mind, when you think of “the world” remember you don’t have to transform every single person on the planet, but you do need to impact those in YOUR world.

1) Remember Your Accomplishments
One of the best things you can do to establish deeper belief in yourself, and your abilities, is to remember your past accomplishments. Take out a piece of paper, grab a pen and begin to list your accomplishments right now. What success have you experienced in your business, your relationships, your education, your friendships, your family, with your clients, your mindset, your personal goals, your partnerships, your masterminds, etc. Everything counts! So, start your list now and keep adding to it. This exercise will help you stay in a higher vibration so you can continue to do what you’re here to do... and continue to impact lives.

2) Remember The Difference You’ve Already Made
This is another terrific “list” exercise that connects you with the difference you’ve already made in the lives of others. Whenever you doubt the power you have to create positive change, recall those moments in which you KNEW, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that you made a difference.

Right now, think about those experiences you’ve had with a client where you knew you made a difference. Perhaps you saw it in their eyes, heard it in their voice, or read it in their words. Then, keep this list handy and read it often. For me, when I need a reminder, I read my Amazon.com book reviews for The Freedom Formula. It’s an instant connection right back to the impact my book is having on readers worldwide. For you, it may be going to your “brag file,” or reading a note from a client or testimonials on your own website. Whatever it is for you, anytime you feel your doubt waiver... remember the difference you’ve already made and it will help you make a bigger difference in the days, months and years to come.

3) Remember Your Higher Purpose
This strategy invites you to elevate your perspective of why you’re here, living on the planet at this critical point in time. You are here to wake up and help others wake up to the new world that is emerging right now. You chose to be here at this important time because you have a unique purpose to fulfill in helping others to heal, grow, transform, evolve, and become all that they were meant to be. Your purpose may be showing up as a gentle whisper or a booming voice... but it is clear that you are here to be a force for positive change in the world. So, remember your purpose (even if it’s not crystal clear yet) and let that carry you into deeper and deeper belief in the role you have to play in transforming the world.

These three strategies are essential for staying on track with your dreams and being a CAUSE for positive change in the world. Doubt and fear will likely surface as you take bigger and bolder steps in your business to create more transformation for others. But, not to worry... when you come back to these strategies, you’ll realize that nothing can keep you from doing what you’re here to do. And so it is...

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

Top 3 Signs of Positive Change

2008-11-06T11:42:00.000-08:00

Nothing endures but change.
-Heraclitus

Yesterday, I had the honor of participating in two of my spiritual masterminds. One was with a group of fellow spiritually-oriented women entrepreneurs and the other was a one-on-on visioning session with a long-time friend.

The theme through both of these calls was change; deep, profound change. We listened to each other speak and could sense the emergence of someone new... someone who has evolved, grown and transformed. It was a glorious experience to be conscious of the change that had occurred in others, as well as ourselves.

These conversations, caused me to contemplate what change really looks like. If you’re like me, you may sometimes find yourself going through a personal transformation (also known as an AFGO - Another Faithful Growth Opportunity) without being fully aware of what exactly is evolving. Change without consciousness leads to fear. And, fear leads to a whole slew of other negative experiences.

The purpose of sharing these top 3 signs of positive change is to raise your awareness of what’s occurring within you. So as you transform (and grow) you’re conscious of what’s evolving... and have the ability to navigate through fear and welcome change with grace and ease.

1. Heightened Frustration – Who ever thought frustration would be a good thing?! Well, in this case it is. Because, if you’re frustrated with something in your life or your business, you’re experiencing it because something that used to work isn’t working anymore, or something that never worked is becoming totally intolerable. Bless your frustration and ask it to show you what’s changing? Frustration is a fantastic teacher to help you notice where your change is occurring and what you can do to move through it more easily. Adjust your relationship to that which is frustrating you, and you’ll see the gift of change waiting inside.

2. Highs and Lows - Change brings out a range of emotions that can be felt practically simultaneously. For example, you may find yourself being ecstatically happy one moment, and crying the next. This is a tell-tale sign of great change because as you come closer and closer to experiencing an inner shift, everything gets compressed. Emotions become stronger, they swing from lows to highs more quickly than usual, and you may be wondering what in the world is going on! And the answer is... change is going on! So, if you find yourself experiencing opposing emotions relatively close together in time, embrace them and let them remind you that you are going through a great change... and all is unfolding exactly as it’s meant to.

3. Seeking Solitude – Change requires a certain level of energy. Whether or not you are aware of the change you’re going through, your BEING knows what’s going on. And, as you expend energy in evolving and growing, a very natural response is to seek solitude. Just like the butterfly that goes through it’s most profound change in a cocoon of solitude, you may find your soul craving solitude as well. Keep in mind that solitude is not the same as isolation... if you’re isolating it’s because you don’t want to deal with anything, whereas if you’re seeking solitude it’s because you’re want to BE with yourself, in silence, in quiet, in peace. Solitude is a gift any time, but especially when you’re experiencing change the urge for solitude shows up to remind you to pay attention and nurture yourself as you grow.

Now that you’re aware of these three signs, I encourage you to notice them when they show up in your life, and acknowledge them for what they are. Give thanks for the change you are experiencing and allow yourself space to surrender, trust and embrace your next evolution. It is all good...

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

How to Find Your “Tribe”

2008-10-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that successful entrepreneurs all have one thing in common? They all have a “tribe.” It’s true. Think of any entrepreneur who has achieved a certain level of success and you’ll discover they are surrounded by people who support, believe and help them to realize their goals and dreams.

Having just returned from one of my mastermind gatherings in Martha’s Vineyard, it became even more clear exactly how important these types of gatherings are. There is something very powerful that happens when a dozen visionary entrepreneurs gather for a few days to turn dreams into reality. By the end of our two days together we were referring to ourselves as a “tribe” because of the depth of connection we felt, and the level of commitment we have in helping each other succeed.

As we were leaving the restaurant from our celebration dinner, another group of diners came up to us and asked how we all came together. They could tell there was something different about our “tribe” and they couldn’t figure out what it was. The best guess they had was that we were having a “mini” high school reunion... because it was evident to them we’d known each other for decades. Ha! At best, some of us have known each other for 2 ½ years, while some other “tribe” members had just met this weekend. Yet, there was a feeling we have all known each other much longer than that.

So, when we told these diners we were a mastermind group of like-minded colleagues, they wanted to know how we all came together. And, this is what I want to share with you here, so you can find your own “tribe” too.

Step 1: Have a Clear Vision For Your Business
In order to attract like-minded mastermind colleagues (your “tribe”) you’ve first got to get clear on your own vision for business and your life. You will attract the perfect group of people to support you based on your own vision. Like attracts like, so get clear on what you want and it will be much easier to manifest the perfect group of people who are also clear on what they want. This is how you can help each other most.

Step 2: Have a Clear Vision for Your “Tribe”
Now it’s time to get clear on the types of people you want to attract for your mastermind group... your “tribe.” Ask yourself these questions... What types of people do I want to support me in the realization of my dreams? What qualities do I want them to possess? What values and guiding principles do I want them to have? Granted, right now, you don’t know exactly WHO those people are, but you can get very clear about the TYPES of people they are. It’s kind of like identifying your ideal client... you can get crystal clear on the essence of who they are without knowing their face or name.

Step 3: Go Where Your “Tribe” Goes
Here you’ve got to take the next step to go where your “tribe” goes. Identify the LIVE face-to-face events where your tribe gathers. For instance, every single person in my current mastermind group, I met by going to an event where I knew “my people” would be. And, they were. Here’s another example, I was just talking with an entrepreneur who signed up to attend my Freedom Formula Experience and she said one of her top 3 reasons for attending was to be in a room filled with like-minded people... her “tribe” per se. So, take the steps you need to identify where YOUR “tribe” is and do whatever it takes to gather with them.

Step 4: Say “Yes” When The Right Opp*rtunity Shows Up
Too many people attract the right opp*ortunities into their lives, but then don’t say “YES” when they show up. Your job, in order to find your “tribe,” is to say YES when the right situation presents itself. I know it sounds crazy to say “no” when the perfect situation surfaces, but sadly, I see people do this all the time. They let the excuse of time, money, travel, etc. keep them from having everything they want. So, the most important step is this one... to say YES to your “tribe” when they show up.

Now, more than ever, it is absolutely essential to have your “tribe” in place. There’s going to be so much exciting change and evolution over the coming years, nobody is going to make it through alone. Your “tribe” of like-minded colleagues is sure to be one of the most valuable assets you can have in your business (and your life) today.

For those of you who want to join my “tribe” be sure to be one of the hundreds of like-minded colleagues at The Freedom Formula Experience this January. www.TheFreedomFormula.com/experience

© 2008 Christine Kloser
Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E Audio “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special audio by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

How to Shift into Abundance

2008-10-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

In times like these, when the external world is absorbed in “lack, lack, lack”, it’s more important than ever for you to shift into abundance... and stay there. Yet, when I analyzed the responses to my recent survey (on the challenges you face in your business), the majority said they were having trouble getting out of fear and living in abundance.

So, in this article I’ll be sharing one of the most powerful tools I use to shift into abundance... no matter what’s happening around me. This is a process I use practically every single day to keep myself in the energy of abundance. Not only is this process simple, energizing and fun; it works!

Energize Your Vision

Step 1: Find a vision partner.
In order for your vision to have the biggest impact on your life, it’s best to energetically speak your vision out loud to a vision partner. Your partner needs to be someone who “gets” you and who believes in an abundant world. Create a partnership with someone who support you in your dreams, doesn’t call you “crazy” for thinking BIG, and understands the power of a held intention.

Step 2: Set up a time to talk with your partner
Once you’ve found a visioning partner, make an appointment to talk on the phone for at least fifteen minutes every week. The first time you have your call, you may want to schedule a bit longer so you can talk about the process after you’re done and check-in with each other to see if you have any suggestions or feedback for future sessions.

Step 3: Create a sacred space
When it’s time for your vision call, you’ll want to do a brief centering exercise that aligns you with each other and establishes the sacred space in which you’ll share together. Just taking a few deep breaths together can easily get you centered. (That’s the yoga instructor in me speaking.)

Step 4: Speak your vision
After you’ve taken a few deep breaths and created a scared space together, the first person to go simply begins to speak their vision to their partner... as if you were experiencing it right now! Allows yourself to transcend any current situation in your life right now and truly shift into the energy of your vision ALREADY being realized. When you do this, you connect at the highest level of the Infinite Abundant Supply, to God, the Universe (or whatever you call that Source of all that is). And, your resonance with this “field” is what causes things to shift in your life.

Step 5: Listen to your partner
As important as it is for the person speaking their vision to step into the energy of having ALREADY realized their dreams, the partner (listener) also has an important responsibility. The listener must hear his/her partner’s vision as if it IS already done. They must hold the vision, and see it as vividly as their partner does. Then, once the partner is complete, the listener says, “I see that vision for you.” The listener can also contribute any additional words of support or any insights they received that would benefit their partner in realizing their vision.

The experience of having another person listen to you with the intention of your vision being realized is deeply powerful. It’s been one of the best tools I’ve ever used in manifesting all that has come to me in recent years from the birth of my daughter and the purchase of a brand-new custom home, to the release of one business and the rapid expansion of another. I urge you to find a partner and get started with this today because remember.... it’s not only fun, it works!

NOTE: If you cannot find a vision partner for this process, then you can simply do it on your own. Be sure to SPEAK your vision out loud, even if only to yourself. The spoken word, (and the energy) it carries is a key piece for this to work.

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

Conscious Entrepreneur: How to Trust Your Vibes in Business

2008-10-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

Before you read another word... pause and take a deep breath. This is how you begin to trust your vibes in business. Simple? Yes. Effective? Yes. But, how can a simple breath help you trust your vibes? That’s what I’ll be sharing with you here in this article, because in order to succeed as a conscious entrepreneur you’ve got to become an expert at trusting (and listening) to your vibes.

One thing I continue to hear from entrepreneurs is they are so busy working on projects, taking care of clients, marketing their business, etc. that they barely have time to eat, sleep and BREATHE... forget about creating time to meditate, or journal. I have news for you. It’s impossible to trust your vibes in business, when you are completely disconnected from yourself because you “go, go, go” all the time.

I’ll assume that you’d like to learn how to not only trust, but hear your vibes (your inner wisdom) more clearly. So, I’m going to share how I do this in my own life, in hopes it will help you, too.

Step 1: Breathe
Give yourself the gift of deep, conscious breath. If you are holding your breath, or completely unaware of it throughout your day, it’s a sure sign you are disconnected from Source, and your “vibes” won’t have any space to enter.

Step 2: Realize You are a Spiritual Being
Next, in order to connect, listen to and act on your vibes you’ve got to embrace the truth that you are a Spiritual being, above and beyond anything else. In this understanding, you realize that you are never the one “in control”... rather you are an instrument being used to fulfill Divine Destiny on earth. In this experience of surrender, you become more conscious of what is truly unfolding in front of you.

Step 3: Become Still
In a world of ever increasing speed and activity, it’s nearly impossible to hear (or trust) your vibes when you are operating at the “speed of life.” You must become still. You must allow your mind to become quiet so your heart can be heard. When I talk about stillness, I don’t mean sitting down to watch TV, eat dinner, sip tea or anything else. What I’m talking about here is sitting down with your eyes closed for at least 10 minutes a day... without moving a finger. When you bring your physical body into stillness, it allows your mind and heart to open to what is present beyond your physical experience of life. And, this is where you can begin to sense your “vibes.”

Step 4: Do Only That Which Brings You Joy
A simple concept, but challenging to do when the phone is ringing, email is piling up and projects are behind deadline. (I understand... I experience these feelings myself sometimes.) But, the concept of living in JOY and the reality that this is actually your NATURAL state of BEING is at the essence of journeying through life trusting your vibes. You are not meant to struggle, or work hard doing something that doesn’t thrill you. Your Divine nature is to experience joy, so begin to look for those things that bring you joy. And, pursue those avenues. Following your joy is a great way to trust your vibes. Joy will never steer you down the wrong road.

I could write an entire book on this topic (perhaps I will some day), but for now I wanted to give you these four easy steps to begin with. Trusting your vibes is a key element to succeeding in the new model for conscious business success. So, set aside some time for yourself today to breathe, be still, and... follow your joy.

If you want to discover exactly how to do this, and how it relates to boosting your bottom line, be sure to attend my once-in-a-lifetime Freedom Formula Experience... where entrepreneurs discover exactly how to integrate practical business strategies and guiding Spiritual principles that put more purpose, passion and profit into your business, no matter what’s happening in the economy. www.TheFreedomFormula.com/experience

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, best-selling author of The Freedom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to discover how to integrate more spirit into YOUR business, then you’ll want to get my F-R-E-E_ CD, “The Top 3 Ways to Tap Into the Biggest Trend in Business Ever.” You can request this special CD by visiting www.FreeedomFormulaExperience.com.

Conscious Entrepreneur: 3 Proven Strategies to Deepen Your Belief in Yourself

2008-10-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

Belief. It is, by far, one of the most powerful concepts to embrace if you want to succeed as a conscious entrepreneur. Without belief in yourself you’ll be stopped in your tracks over and over again. And, you’ll continue wondering WHY you aren’t succeeding like you want to.

My heart broke when I read the hundreds of responses to my recent survey about the challenges you’re facing on your entrepreneurial and spiritual path. Many of you doubt yourself, and let fear paralyze you. Well, I’m here to help you through this.

But, before I share a few of my personal strategies for maintaining belief in yourself, I first want to assure you that I have not arrived yet, (perhaps Ill feel I’ve arrived when I make my transition out of this physical body). Anyway, no matter how much my business has grown, no matter how much success I experience, I still have bouts of fear and doubt. It usually happens when Im stepping into something much BIGGER than before, or when I forget who I really am, on a Soul level.

In fact, just last week, I was gripped by fear and had to do a lot of inner work to lift myself out of it and take the next bold step, (as my friend Kathryn Tull would say). I pulled out every tool I had, every strategy I knew to get back on track... and with the discipline to keep my mind out of that dark abyss of fear and spend time getting quiet with myself and asking for help, I got through it.

I share this with you because I think its important for you to know that fear and doubt don’t stop surfacing once you reach a certain level of success. Growth stretches you way out of your comfort zone, raises doubts and fears... and gives you the opportunity to learn from the experience, deepen your understanding of yourself, gain new insights and see things that you hadn’t seen before. And, at each level of success you have, the gifts you receive from the challenges you face are so much greater than they were before.

OK, now that we’ve got that straightened out, and you understand that you are not alone in your disbelief, but that it is quite common among entrepreneurs on this path, lets get into some specific strategies that have helped me increase the belief I have in myself. I share these knowing that if you implement them, they’ll help you, too.

1. Take care of yourself. This ones a big one. Taking care of yourself is one of the most important steps you can implement to increase belief in yourself. If you don’t take care of yourself, how could you possibly be of service to others? When you’re on an airplane, the flight attendant tells you to put your oxygen mask on FIRST, then you’re in a position to help others.

Taking care of yourself can mean different things to different people. For me it means taking time every day to meditate and journal, exercising six times a week, asking for help when I need it (and knowing where to get it), playing with my daughter, getting enough sleep, drinking lots of water, eating well and saying no to things that don’t serve me.

Get clear on what you need to take care of yourself and then do those things. When you take care of yourself in this way, it deepens your belief because you’re treating yourself like someone you truly VALUE! And, that helps others value you, too.

2. Do what you say you’re going to do. Someone once told me that the fastest route to boosting self-esteem and confidence is to do what you say you’re going to do. This comment stuck with me because it is so true, and it works. Just think about it.... if you continually say I’m going to do X, and you don’t do it, you’re affirming your low self-esteem and lack of confidence.

On the other hand, when you do what you say you’re going to do (call a specific person, take time to meditate, send out an email, write an article, take a walk, go to a business event, read a particular book, etc.) it BOOSTS your self-esteem and confidence. If you continually find yourself faced with lack of belief, chances are you have a history of breaking your word to yourself. Start keeping your word to the most important person (you) and watch your belief in yourself skyrocket.

3. Trust in your Divine plan. This is the fourth component of my definition of a conscious entrepreneur because its another critical aspect to your success. When disbelief, lack, fear and doubt creep in, you’ve got to deepen your trust in a higher/Divine plan. Everything in your life is happening for a reason... even the challenges, pain and fear you may be facing today.

So, the next time you feel your lack of faith surfacing or lack of belief showing up again, I invite you to take a close look at what these feelings are here to show you. (They are here to point you in the RIGHT direction.) So, rather than get angry and scared, instead ask yourself, What am I meant to learn from this experience? What good is here for me to discover? What shift am I supposed to embrace? And, I’m telling you, when you dig deep enough to have absolute trust that all is unfolding with Divine perfection, you WILL find that nugget of insight that’ll change everything. This strategy alone has saved me on more occasions than I care to count. And, it will for you, too.

I know I’m just barely touching the tip of the iceberg here on this topic, but I wanted to give you something to get started with. So, please embrace one of these strategies today and begin believing in yourself at a whole new level.

copyright 2008 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser, Author of The Freedom Formula®, publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to put Soul in your business and Money in your Bank, get your FR^EE tips now at www.LoveYourLife.com

Business Planning: The Secret to Setting "Miraculous" Business Goals

2008-09-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

To plan, or not to plan? That is the question! Perhaps you can relate to my relationship with planning; typically, for the past several years, I'd review my year-end goals and set out a plan for everything I want to do the following year. And, year after year, there are always more goals than I can manage to achieve. You may find yourself in the same situation... with so many things you'd like to complete in a year, but not able to get everything done.

But, this year something different is happening for me. And, when I recently attended my mastermind meeting in Las Vegas, I saw my same experience echoed by most of my colleagues.

Let me offer you a little background... The members of my Mastermind group decided to work together to complete our One Page Business Plan, based on Jim Horan's book of the same title. This was the best planning tool I've ever used... it helped all of us narrow our focus and gain crystal clarity on what was most important for us and our business.

The One Page Business Planning process, I believe, is what allowed me to do something I'd never done before... which is the fifth gift I received from my Mastermind trip to Las Vegas.

Gift #5: Create space for miracles to appear.

With a realistic, attainable, inspiring and strategic business plan in place, I allowed myself to attend my mastermind meeting in Las Vegas with the freedom of knowing my business finally had a clear direction for the year. The interesting thing about having a written plan in place was that it allowed me to not plan for every last detail of what I wanted to occur for the entire year.

In years past, this would have "freaked me out" a little bit. But, what I realized during my Mastermind meeting in Las Vegas was that many of us hadn't planned our entire year in specific detail. Rather, we knew WHAT we wanted to achieve throughout the year, but we didn't try to determine exactly HOW those goals were going to be realized. Instead, many of us consciously allowed ourselves to create space for miracle to appear.

Now, you may be wondering what I mean when I say "miracles" especially since miracles aren't something you'll typically find in a business plan. Perhaps the best way to explain this is to give you an example from my own business.

One of the goals I had in my business plan was to increase my gross revenues to one million dollars this year. I knew I wanted to achieve this goal, but I didn't focus on exactly how it was going to happen. Instead, I told myself I would see what unfolds as a results of the plan I had in place for the first half of the year... which included the release of my new book The Freedom Formula, the launch of my 2008 Get Your Book Done publishing program, the release of my next book Conscious Entrepreneurs, and my 3rd Annual Conscious Entrepreneurs Tele-Summit.

I felt confident in surrendering the 2nd half of the year's plan and allowing myself to be guided toward what I was destined to do. As a result of allowing myself to remain open to what showed up, I was shown exactly what I needed to do for the rest of the year. I was supposed to create a LIVE event based on my book called The Freedom Formula Experience.

How did I know I was supposed to be doing this? Because it was fun, easy and effortless. Every resource I dreamed would show up... showed up! Including easily getting Neale Donald Walsch, James Twyman and Marianne Williamson to come speak at the event live! Believe me, if I hadn't created space for miracles to appear, I'm sure this wouldn't have happened with the ease and grace it did. I'm still pinching myself to ensure that it's real.

The most beautiful thing about this experience of 'creating space for miracles to appear is that many of my colleagues were also following the same inner guidance. One of them allowed for a void to bring forth his most valuable creative piece of work ever, another colleague cleared space and birthed a new program for her clients that is more aligned with her soul's calling (and an exciting new method for delivering her new ideas), and another colleague showed up without an agenda and left Las Vegas with a concept for a whole new direction for her business.

You see, when you allow yourself to stop 'forcing' and 'willing' your way through your plans, (and replace those behaviors with allowance, trust, openness and receptivity) you DO create space for miracles to occur; miracles that will guide you day by day and moment by moment to exactly where you're meant to BE.

Conscious Business: The REAL Meaning of a "Service Based" Business

2008-09-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

How often have you heard the term "service-based" business? Pretty frequently, I'm sure. Usually when you hear people (perhaps
yourself) talk about a service business, they are referring to a service rather than a product that is offered to their clients. For the sake of business it is important to consider all of your products and services in your marketing mix. However, one of the most important things to consider is a much higher definition of the word "service" and clarity on how your business serves the greatest good of all.

This concept of REAL service quickly surfaced as the unplanned theme for a recent tele-summit that I planned, and I'm not surprised at all. Everywhere I turn more entrepreneurs are stepping up to claim that business is a VEHICLE to help in the positive transformation of our world. You see, the service your business offers goes FAR beyond the specific services you provide in exchange for money.

The true service of your business is not the offering you make to one particular individual; rather it is the service that your business (as a whole) offers to the world. When I interviewed Anita Pathik-Law for the tele-summit, she spoke of a collective urgency for entrepreneurs to serve. We got into an engaging conversation about the shifts going on in our world right now, and the rising energy of conscious entrepreneurs everywhere to do what they can to be of service in the highest way possible.

So, how does this (concept of serving the highest good for all)
relate to your specific business? There are two strategies I
recommend to help you connect this to your entrepreneurial endeavors:

1) Shift Your Perspective: Often in business it's easy to get wrapped up in the details of your day-to-day operations. You've got a new webpage to post, a new product to develop, client calls, an article to write, email to manage and phone calls to return... just to name a few things that are probably on your daily task list. And, when you're stuck in this kind of detail, it is easy to lose your perspective. All you can see is the task at hand and getting it done.

When this happens, I invite you to take a "time out" (for me, it's typically a day at the Chocolate Spa in Hershey PA... or quiet time in the hammock on my deck). This intention of your "time out" is to step away from the details of your business and reconnect with your higher vision. Chances are you didn't start your business to deal with details all day. You started it to make a difference in the lives of others, and to have a positive impact on the world. Too often, this gets lost in the mix of things to do. So, when you give yourself a break, take time to dream of the ultimate service your business (and YOU) wants to offer to the world. There is SOMETHING that YOU are here to do. There is a higher purpose you are here to serve. Allow yourself the time and space to connect with THAT level of service. It will be the driving force for all of your business and personal success.

2) Let the Universe Work Its' Magic: I love this strategy. It's been one of the most effective strategies I've implemented this year. And, that is, to not try to plan everything. Too often, as a business owner, you feel driven to plan for every last project that you've got slated for the year. This can be a big mistake. Because, in planning out every last project, you don't leave much room for the Universe to work it's magic and SHOW YOU what the next steps are for you and your business. I see so many entrepreneur struggling to figure out what to do next, when all they need to do is release their struggle and ALLOW "what's next" to reveal itself!

I know from my own personal experience, that when I allowed the space in my life (and my calendar) for the Universe to reveal my next steps, I was shown something that would never have surfaced if I had TRIED to plan it. And, what revealed itself was my service to the world through being a voice for conscious entrepreneurs.

So, on your journey of experiencing the REAL meaning of service-based business, I invite you to implement these two strategies (shift your perspective and let the Universe work its magic) so you discover exactly how you and your business are ultimately meant to serve the world.

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Fre^edom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to enjoy a purpose-driven business and a soul-satisfying life, send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Conscious Entrepreneur: Your Greatest Business Asset... that Doesn't Cost a Dime

2008-09-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

What do you think about when you hear the words “business asset.” You may start thinking about your business, physical property (computers, equipment, inventory, etc.), the money you have in the bank, your client list, your database of subscribers, equity you may have in a building or a number of other “tangible” assets. No matter how many assets you can think of like this, none of them are your most valuable asset.

Your most valuable asset is invisible. It’s not something you can touch or feel, nor is it a number on a bank statement somewhere. As a conscious entrepreneur, the greatest business asset you own is your FAITH! Now, don’t get me wrong here. I’m not talking about anything that has to do with a particular religion. This is not about religious faith.

The type of faith I’m talking about is faith in your Divine Plan, faith in yourself, faith in the purpose you’ve been given to fulfill, faith in the Universe conspiring for your highest good (even when it appears like the opposite), faith to invest in yourself when you don’t know where the money is going to come from and faith that KNOWS no matter what, you’ll be OK.

I understand that faith doesn’t typically arise in a conversation about business assets, but yesterday I was blessed with having a profound conversation with a few of my mastermind colleagues about the necessity for this asset in business. We were supposed to spend our call talking about list-building strategies, but somehow ended up talking about what it really takes to succeed. Specially, one of my colleagues asked me how I’ve been able to get to this point in my business… on the eve of launching my biggest event ever (The Freedom Formula Experience) and sending my book to best-seller status on Amazon.com.

My answer to her was “faith.” And, from there our conversation grew and I realized how important it is to openly talk about this asset as a necessary part of your business. For me, faith is about laying EVERYTHING on the line, getting rid of your “back doors” and being willing to say YES to the opportunities that resonate with your soul. In the incredible movie, The Moses Code, Michael Beckwith said, “God doesn’t call the qualified, he qualifies the called.” And, this is exactly what I mean when I think about how faith has played a part in my success. I heard my call and said YES to the experiences that were my “qualification.”

The same is true for any conscious entrepreneur. So, the next time an opportunity shows up for you that resonates with your soul, and you’re petrified to TAKE ACTION (believe me, I know how scary it is to take action when you have no logical reason to do so), I invite you to take a leap of faith and say YES to yourself! This tangible demonstration of faith is the quickest way to tell the Universe you are SERIOUS about getting out of your comfort zone and doing what it takes to fulfill your greatest dreams.

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Fre^edom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to enjoy a purpose-driven business and a soul-satisfying life, send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Time Management: How to Give Yourself the Sacred Gift of Time

2008-09-08T12:07:00.000-07:00

Ask any entrepreneur what their most valuable commodity is and, they’ll probably say it’s their time. Unlike money, resources, ideas and faith (which can all increase) time remains constant; no matter whom you are or what you do, there are only 24 hours in a day to live your dreams and goals. So, why do entrepreneurs often struggle with time? Especially, taking time for you?

As a conscious entrepreneur, you most likely have an abundance of creative ideas you want to implement in your business. And, it’s not unreasonable for you to stay up late or perhaps work on weekends to pursue the passion that wants to be expressed through your business. Taking time to pursue your dreams in this way is part of the entrepreneurial journey (as long as you’re not working late every night).

But, what about sacred time for yourself? Time for you to reconnect with your spiritual essence, time for reflection, meditation, contemplation and insight; time to pray, journal and ask for God’s guidance? This is the most valuable time you’ll ever experience, and it has a direct effect on your bottom-line.

With the accelerated journey I’m on after the release of my book (The Freedom Formula) on Amazon.com, I’m remembering how much of a priority it is to give myself the sacred gift of time… it’s as essential to my success as my marketing is. And, it is for you, too.

Recently, I’ve been shifting into some new ways to enjoy the sacred gift of time to simply be with myself, and with God. I’d like to share two of these with you right now in hopes that you, too, will commit to enjoying more time taking care of your heart and soul.

1. Journaling. One of my favorite ways to connect with my soul is through journaling. I love how the words simply flow from my pen. Sometimes I’ll write about those things I’m grateful for; sometimes I’ll write about a specific issues that hasn’t been resolved and ask for the solution to reveal itself to me; sometimes I’ll write about a recent success and everything I learned through that experience; sometimes I’ll simply begin by writing, “today I feel…” and take it from there; sometimes I write about the miracles that show up in my life everyday. Your journaling options are truly endless.

One of the most joyous things I’m experiencing in my recent journaling is that I’m writing in a journal I created myself. With the guidance of some creative friends at the Evolutionary Women’s Retreat, I took a simple composition book and proceeded to decorate the cover (and every single page inside) with beautiful words and photos I cut from magazines. Now, when I open my journal, I receive a unique message on every page… sometimes that message alone is the prompt for my journal entry.

So, I encourage you to take a look at your own experience with journaling and if you haven’t done it in a while, or simply need to shift the intention for your journaling, now is the time. Enjoy this sacred time to communicate with the essence of who you really are.

2. Mindful Walking. This is another one of my favorite ways to connect with myself and embrace some time to simply BE, and remember my Divine nature. Often I find my mind becomes still when my body is in motion, so mindful walking really works for me. With this activity, I have changed my usual cardiovascular exercise routine (on the elliptical with techno music playing on my iPod) to a glorious morning walk around my hilly neighborhood listening to inspirational songs by Karen Drucker.

The beauty of mindful walking is that you simultaneously take care of your physical body, while nourishing your soul with the nature that surrounds you and the gift of inspirational music that lifts your spirit. I’ll often find myself singing along, “When I start my day with love, that’s what I get more of, is love.” And, you can’t help but have a glorious day when it begins like this!

One of your responsibilities, as a conscious entrepreneur, is to do what you must to stay connected to your soul. You have a huge mission in the world and so many lives to touch through your work; giving yourself this sacred gift of time needs to be a priority so you can stay inspired, grounded and fulfilled as you pursue your entrepreneurial dreams.

© 2008 Christine Kloser

Would you like to use this article? You may as long as you include the following information along with the article: Christine Kloser, author of The Fre^edom Formula, helps small business owners put soul in their business and money in the bank. If you want to enjoy a purpose-driven business and a soul-satisfying life, send for my special report, How to Avoid the 3 Massive Mistakes Made by Most Conscious Entrepreneurs and my audio, 7 Strategies Entrepreneurial Authors Need to Know... Before Writing a Word, both of which you get (at no charge) when you request my Conscious Business Success Kit at www.LoveYourLife.com.

Conscious Business: The Secret Internal Ingredient of Business Growth

2008-06-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you heard someone talking about the proverbial “next level” in their business? Probably in the last 24 hours! Well, I don’t know about you... but I’m a little tired of hearing this phrase over and over again.

When I was in Las Vegas with my mastermind colleagues, we originally thought we were there to take our businesses to the “next level.” After all, isn’t that what mastermind groups are all about? Progress in your business! But, I soon began to notice something each time a colleague stood in front of the room to share... the realization of which leads me to third gift I received in Las Vegas.

Gift #3: The only “next level” is within YOU.

Colleague after colleague, each time someone stood in front of the room and started talking about where they were in their business, it became crystal clear that the only journey we were there to take was the journey within.

Many entrepreneurs (myself included) have made the mistake of thinking that business growth is something that you experience on the outside in terms of increased clients, more money, more web traffic, more referrals, more invitations to speak, more of whatever you desire in your business. And, yes, those things are all outward expressions of growth... but the only thing that SUSTAINS the external growth of a FULFILLING business is the internal growth of your soul. (Yes, this is why my new book is called The Freedom Formula: How to Put SOUL in Your Business and MONEY in Your Bank.)

Sustained, fulfilling growth does NOT come from what you DO in the external world; rather, it comes from the work you do on the inside. Sustained growth and the progress of your business’ evolution is less about the business than it is about YOU. As a conscious business owner, the only thing stopping you from all the success you desire is you, not your external circumstance.

Please forgive me if I’m coming on strong here, but I speak from my own experience. If you’ve been following me for any length of time, or have read my new book, you know that I have been through some very challenging times in my business... on the edge of bankruptcy and struggling to pay my rent. It wasn’t until I stopped TRYING to make my business work, (and started to INQUIRE WITHIN about where I needed to grow so that my business COULD grow)... that my business drastically changed for the better. So, now when I catch myself focused on the external aspects of my business, it’s a reminder for me that the growth isn’t going to occur “out there”, the growth is going to occur inside of me. Then, and only then, do I experience the results I desire on the outside.

So, the next time you find yourself wanting to get your business to the “next level”... it’s a sign that the time has come for you to go to the next level within yourself. Where do YOU need to go? What’s working? What’s not working? Why are you unfulfilled with the current state of your business? What would “light you up?” What old thoughts no longer serve you? It is this self-inquiry that leads you down the path to REAL, sustainable and fulfilling success.

©2008 Love Your Life, LLC

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser, Author of The Freedom Formula®, publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to put Soul in your business and Money in your Bank, get your FR^EE tips now at www.LoveYourLife.com

Conscious Business: How Vulnerability Helps Your Business Grow

2008-05-28T12:37:00.000-07:00

If you’re reading this right now, it’s pretty safe for me to assume that you are (or want to be) an entrepreneur. You’re likely filled with creative ideas and numerous ways in which you want to share your gifts with the world while getting paid well. This, after all, is part of what makes you a conscious entrepreneur... you want to make money AND make a difference, big time!

One of the characteristics you may possess as an entrepreneur is strength. I know this is true for me. I’ve been through so much in my business that I have acquired a tremendous amount of strength, especially during the times of adversity. Let’s face it, it takes strength to wake up everyday and pursue your dream when the odds look like they’re stacked against you. It takes strength to stay focused on your goals when life throws you a curve ball. It takes strength to stay true to who you are, when other people pile their expectations on you. It takes strength to endure in what can be a very challenging and uncomfortable journey at times. But, as an entrepreneur, you wouldn’t have it any other way.

However, strength (as we commonly think of it) is an illusion. And, this is the next gift I want to share with you from Las Vegas.

Gift #2: Your strength comes from your vulnerability.

When I arrived in Las Vegas on May 2 my colleagues would never have guessed what was going on inside of me. On the outside, it was apparent that I’m experiencing a lot of success: my book The Freedom Formula was just released, my new website was launched, my clients are making great strides, I recently hired four new team members to help manage the growth in my business, I have a clear vision of the next phase of my company.... I’m living in the “sweet spot” where gifts are manifesting every single day in surprising and awesome ways.

You’d think my feelings of strength and confidence would also be at an all time high. You’d think I would have bound up to the front of the room when it was my turn to share and rave about all of the great things happening to and through me. Now, I certainly could have played that role when I was speaking to my colleagues, but something inside me knew I had to be brutally honest with myself, and with them. And, so I proceeded to share some of the “wins” I was experiencing... and then proceeded to be completely vulnerable (as I’m being right here, right now, with you) and share with them that my confidence felt like it was plummeting. After they picked their jaws up off the floor from the shock of my statement, they gently asked me to tell them more about what was going on. And, I did.

I shared the struggles, fears, doubts and challenges that were surfacing along with my victories and successes. I allowed myself to let go of any feeling of how I “should” be and showed up exactly how I was in that moment. And, as a result of being vulnerable with my trusted colleagues, we all engaged in a meaningful discussion about the common challenges we (as entrepreneurs) face. The challenges we discussed were not about the external aspects of our business like marketing, systems, websites, strategy, etc. Rather, the discussions were around our spiritual connection, mission, mindset, passion, purpose and our desire to EXPERIENCE ourselves at our best THROUGH our business.

Somewhere in the middle of our deep conversation, I could feel my confidence and strength being restored. All I needed was to be authentic, honest and vulnerable with my trusted colleagues. And, allow myself to receive the abundant gifts that came forth from our deep conversation. What I discovered is that I wasn’t alone in my feelings of fear and doubt. And, that all of us (at one time or another) face these doubts in order to move through them.

I think where entrepreneurs get in a real “pickle” is when they feel they always have to show their strength; when they force themselves to appear like they “have it all together”; when they don’t have a space to simply BE and SHARE their truth.

So, I invite you to create safe and sacred relationships with colleagues you know, like and trust. And when your feelings of fear and doubt begin to surface, rather than willing or forcing your way through it, allow yourself to be authentic, honest and vulnerable. It is in THAT space where you’ll receive the abundant gifts that arise around and within you the moment you BE exactly who you are.

©2008 Love Your Life, LLC

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser, Author of The Freedom Formula®, publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to put Soul in your business and Money in your Bank, get your FR^EE tips now at www.LoveYourLife.com

Conscious Business: How to Be a Business Leader Beyond Your Business

2008-05-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

I recently attended a meeting of my mastermind group in Las Vegas. They're a group I've been meeting with for the past two years. Those meetings have always been a phenomenal experience for me... experiences that helped me catapult my business from struggle to success. This latest meeting, however, truly changed my life. I had the extraordinary experience of enjoying two days with like-minded colleagues in the most powerful, authentic mastermind I've ever attended.

So, you may be wondering what was so different about this one? Well, let me tell you.

This mastermind had no leader. It was the first one I’ve been to that was a result of a group of individuals coming together on their own accord to support each other. Nobody got paid; nobody was responsible for the group; nobody was “in charge.” And, it was pure magic... which brings me to the first gift Las Vegas taught me about business.

Gift #1: Show up as a leader.

You may be wondering how my weekend in Las Vegas even occurred when nobody was in charge. Here we were; a group of 10 entrepreneurs from across the United States and Canada, sitting in a meeting room in Las Vegas having some of the most powerful conversations of our lives... and nobody was in charge. So, how’d it happen? How did we orchestrate such an undertaking if nobody was at the helm? The secret is... we were ALL leaders.

So now, you may be wondering... if we were all leaders, how did anything get done? How could we be productive with ten leaders at the helm? You’d think it would be mayhem. But, it was the exact opposite. It was easy, calm, fun and totally ‘in the flow.’

The key to this was that everyone showed up as a leader... but, not in the same role at the same time. For example, two people worked together to negotiate the hotel contract, another person worked on the agenda, I coordinated our “night on the town” (where we danced our hearts out until 4:00 in the morning), someone else kept time during the meetings, someone else conducted a round-table conversation about our accountability/buddy system, someone else brought the movie “The Moses Code” for us to watch together, someone else facilitated our closing, etc. Everyone contributed their piece exactly as it was meant to be. The whole experience was 100% perfect. We were all in charge... and we were all changed.

What I’m taking away from this, and what I want you to consider for yourself, is that you ARE a leader, even if you’re not in a designated leadership position. As an entrepreneur, you have built-in leadership skills, so use them outside of your own business. Be willing to step up, to chip in, to do your part as an individual... for the good of the WHOLE.

As I spoke with Donna (my Online Business Manager) for our weekly meeting, she asked me why it was such a profound weekend for me. And, the answer somewhat surprised me when I said it, but the most profound piece of the weekend was that as I experienced everyone showing up as a leader... everyone taking responsibility, everyone knowing when to step up (and when to step back)... I couldn’t help but imagine what our world would be like if everyone showed up as we did, as leaders working together for the good of the whole. We’d live in a different world if this were the case.

So, I invite you to take a look at the groups you belong to, the communities you participate in, the teams you’re a part of... and see if you can contribute more as a leader, not for your own sake but for the sake of the highest and best good of everyone involved.

©2008 Love Your Life, LLC

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser, Author of The Freedom Formula®, publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to put Soul in your business and Money in your Bank, get your FR^EE tips now at www.LoveYourLife.com

How to Achieve All of Your Goals

2008-04-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

More often than not when people learn about all the projects I manage at once, and notice that I actually COMPLETE them... they always ask me the same question, “How do you get all this stuff done?” For me, it boils down to a simple process that I go through every time I set a goal for myself. Whether the goal is to get in better shape (like losing 4 pounds in the last 10 days), launch a new program, create a new website, meet a particular expert or publish a book... the process is always the same.

Now, before I share my process with you, let me assure you that “I” don’t get all this stuff done. I do some of it, and my fantastic (and growing) team does the rest. Many people are shocked to find out that I rarely work on Fridays, don’t work on weekends and still have plenty of time to go to the gym six times per week, cook for my family and play with my daughter (Hi-Ho-Cherry-O is her favorite game). And, I take at least two vacations a year not including a whole bunch of weekend family trips. For me, this is the only way to run a business... so that it doesn’t run you.

Anyway, let’s get into my five-step strategy to help you achieve all of your goals:

1. Know WHY You Want To Achieve The Goal.
Any goal worth achieving has to have deep roots in your heart. You’ve got to know exactly WHY this goal is important to you. Because, let’s face it. You’ll most likely hit a few stumbling blocks along your way to achieving this goal, and sometimes you may want to quit. But, if you are deeply connected to the reason WHY the goal is important to you, nothing can hold you back.

2. Be Crystal clear About Your Vision.
Once you know WHY you want to achieve the goal, the next step is to enjoy taking some time to clarify your vision of the goals. You want to ingrain your vision into your mind so it is there all the time, no matter what. Especially if you have a bad day, or hit a block, you’ll rely on your crystal clear vision to remind you of that which you want to achieve. The more vivid the picture, the more connected you are emotionally to the results you want to achieve, the easier they manifest in your life.

3. Don’t Worry About “How”
Ahhhh! This is a good one. HOW is absolutely none of your business! If you ever find yourself up against a big goal and you notice those voices of fear and doubt creeping in to say, “Yeah, but how are you going to do that?” Your job is to ignore them. If you focus on trying to figure out “how”... you will take your focus away from your goal. Remember, what you think about your bring about. Stay focused on the “what” and the “how” will reveal itself to you.

4. Put Yourself In Environments That Support Your Success.
I think this step is my favorite, because I THRIVE on being surrounded by like-minded people who believe in me and my dreams. The best thing about creating supportive environments around you is that they are there to remind you of your greatness. This could mean hiring a coach, participating in a mastermind group, listening to audios that uplift you, etc... these are all environments and a crucial part of the process to achieving all of your goals.

5. Have Faith... and Keep Going.
90% of the time, you’ll find me wearing a ring that says “when you have faith” on the outside, and “all things are possible” on the inside. I wear this ring as a constant reminder that faith is the key to everything. It’s impossible (or at least extremely difficult) to achieve your goals when you have no faith in the greater energy of the Universe/God. God wants you to have everything your heart desires... you wouldn’t have had the desire if you didn’t ALREADY have everything you need to realize it. (As Robert A. Russell says in God Works Through Faith, “the answer precedes the question”.) So, above all, have faith and know that if you keep going IN faith, everything you dream of is yours.

I trust that if you follow this five-step process every time you set a goal, you will achieve it. I know it sounds too simple to be true, but I assure you that any goal I’ve achieved in the past 5 years has been realized by using this process. I wish you much joy as you set (and achieve) your goals!

©2008 Love Your Life, LLC

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser, Author of The Freedom Formula®, publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to put Soul in your business and Money in your Bank, get your FR^EE tips now at www.LoveYourLife.com

The Secret of Giving

2008-03-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

I’m sure you’ve heard the expression, ‘Give and you shall receive.’ But, have you ever stopped to really examine this phrase and implement it into your life? I know I’ve heard this concept over and over again, but hadn’t understood the immense depth of its simple, yet powerful promise... until this month.

You see, two weeks ago, I got to spend the day with Neale Donald Walsch, author of Conversations with God. One of my girlfriends and I joined an intimate group of people for Neale’s 1-day discussion about his new book, Happier Than God. I’m not sure if it was the power of Neale’s words, the combined energy of the people who were there, or the beauty of the live music that was shared throughout the day... but the stage was set for me (and everyone) to “get” what we came for.

So, it was nearly three-quarters through the day when Neale talked about giving as the key to receiving. And, for some reason... a light bulb went off in my mind (and my heart) when I heard him speak about this topic. It was unlike any other time I had heard this “secret.” Let me explain.

Now, I’m not sure how much you know about me, but if you’re familiar with my story then you’re aware of the fact that I had some significant financial challenges in a few of my past business endeavors. I was driven to the point of near-bankruptcy and faced some extraordinarily lean years. In those years, I wasn’t as aware as I am today, and I let feelings of fear, doubt, worry and lack direct some of my behavior. What ended up happening to me over those years, as a result of my fear of financial ruin, is that I focused mostly on what I needed to get (to survive) rather than what I could give.

This mindset of focusing on what I could get, rather than what I could give became my default mode of operation. All the while, I knew that it was in giving that I would receive. Thankfully, the more I learned, grew and understood... the more I would remind myself to focus on what I could give, rather than what I could get. And, what do you know? When I started shifting my focus to be more about how I could help and give to others, the more I received (more happiness, more fulfillment, more referrals, more creativity, more opportunities and more money)!

So, I went to Neale’s discussion with a pretty good understanding of this concept, but what I walked away with was how much more there was to this simple statement of, ‘Give and you shall receive.’ What I learned about this statement that “hit” me BIG time is that it is literally in the MOMENT of giving that you receive. It doesn’t happen after the fact, it happens instantly! And, Neale encourages us to identify what we wanted more of. Some of the examples people gave were: wanting more love, more acceptance, more money and more connection. And, we were guided to embrace the truth that if we wanted more love we needed to GIVE love, if we wanted more acceptance we needed to GIVE acceptance to others, if we wanted more money we needed to GIVE more money and if we wanted more connection we needed to GIVE connection to others.

I know this sounds like a simple concept, but I tell you, the depth at which I “got it” was profound. And, in the past two weeks I have GIVEN more than I ever have before, and I’ve also received more of everything (connections, opportunity, money, creativity and support) than I ever have before.

The real secret of giving is that you cannot give anything that you don’t already have. So, if you give love it means you have love in the moment you give it... for it would be impossible to give it if you didn’t already have it within you. And, that goes for anything and everything you want more of. Give to others and you’ll instantly have the experience of receiving. It’s impossible not to.

I invite you now, to identify something in your life you want more of. Get clear on what that is. Then, make a conscious effort to give that which you want to receive. And, notice how it feels to realize that the moment you give it IS the moment you have it for yourself. Have fun with this... it is pure magic!

©2008 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include the following blurb with it: Christine Kloser, Author of The Freedom Formula publishes the transformational Conscious Business Connection ezine. If you want to enjoy a purpose-drive business and a soul-satisfying life, you’re in the right place! Get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizRreport.com.

Why (and How) Speed Matters

2008-02-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

You may be asking how to walk this fine line between creating a hugely expansive vision, and not having it bring up negative emotions. I want to share a principle here that will help you walk this line with ease, trust and joy. This is something I learned walking through my own challenges along the entrepreneurial journey. Because, let’s face it, it’s not easy to create a whole new and exciting vision for your business (and your life) when you may not know where our next month’s rent (or sometimes your next day’s meal) is coming from.

The principle is that of speed. Often, when you think of speed, you think of executing an action in the physical world. The speed in which you make a follow-up call, gather information, get a product to market, make more money, build your website, etc. It’s all about the physical, tangible world of “making things happen.”

But, the speed I’m talking about here, to keep you energized and inspired about your vision, is the speed in which you reconnect to your Source when the feelings of fear, doubt, despair or lack creep in. When you’re able to raise your awareness to the infinite supply of the Universe and to the Divine Perfection of your life, you’ll see that whatever is happening in the moment is part of the Divine Plan. You’ll be able to manage the negative emotions more easily and rise back up into the higher emotional states much more quickly.

No matter how difficult a challenge you may be facing, the ability to connect with Source quickly is the key to moving through it. This principle really showed itself to me when I experienced a miscarriage with my second baby. I had wanted nothing more than to bring another child into our family. So, you can imagine my despair when I miscarried the day after Christmas in 2006 (after having announced the pregnancy as a gift to our families on Christmas day). I remember when the loss finally hit me on a deep emotional level four days later; I simply crumbled into a pile of tears on the cold tile floor in my bathroom. I sobbed uncontrollably at the depth of the loss I experienced in miscarrying.

But, during my intense and cathartic cry, I somehow made my way to my journal and began to write about what I was experiencing. Through my writing, I was able to reconnect with Source and the feeling that somehow, this too, was happening in alignment with my Divine Plan. I shifted how I related to my loss and despair and gained a new perspective in which to move through this experience... right in the middle of the moment I was feeling it the deepest. The speed in which I consciously connected to Source was integral in the rapid and radical transformations I made in my life and my business as a result of this loss in my life.

I trust you’re beginning to see how it is possible to create a vision larger than anything you’ve dreamed of before, while being able to manage any negative emotions that come along with that vision. You maintain a conscious awareness of the infinite abundance of the Universe/God.

In the world of high performance sports training they do something called speed drills, where the sole focus of the exercise is to consistently increase speed. Consider this your own personal speed drill. It may take a while to strengthen your speed “muscles” because they may have become atrophied over time. Right now you get to recondition those “muscles” to respond to heavier and heavier loads. The “load” in this case is the size of your vision, and the negative emotions that may surface when you’re scared of it. The more expansive your vision is, the heavier the load is which means you have more resistance to work with. The beauty of this is that it’s an oppor^tunity to delve into your spirituality and connect with Source more deeply than ever before.

©2008 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com

Be Open to Receive

2008-02-04T11:35:00.000-08:00

For many of conscious business owners, you're very used to giving, serving and being there for others. Receiving, on the other hand, doesn’t come as naturally. To give you an example, recall a moment when you received a genuine compliment from a friend. What did you do? Chances are you down played whatever they acknowledged in you. Compliments are rarely received with a simple, “thank you.” There’s usually something attached to it to diminish the significance of that which you’re being complimented on.

Perhaps it comes from a society that told you, “don’t be too full of yourself,” “it’s not nice to brag,” and the list could go on and on. Culturally we are not raised to hold our heads high and say “thank you,” I appreciate your acknowledgment and I agree with you. Whatever the reason for this dismissal of receiving compliments doesn’t matter. What matters is that you become aware of how you personally stand in this regard and begin accepting compliments in a completely new way.

So, why are we talking about compliments, and how to accept them? Because it’s a lesson in Receiving 101. How you receive a compliment is indicative of your overall ability to receive. The next time someone gives you a compliment, whether it’s for your fantastic shoes, a stellar speech, or your ability to listen and support, practice simply saying “thank you.” And stop there! Do not justify, do not explain how you got the shoes on sale, or didn’t really think your speech was very good, or that it was “nothing” to be there for a friend. These are all ways to show the Universe that you are not ready to receive... anything. How can you receive money, love, or fame, whatever you desire, if you can’t receive a compliment on your new shoes?! Think about it.

Another fantastic way to exercise your receiving muscle is around the good green stuff. No, not wheat grass... we’re talking about money, here! Have you ever done this? You receive a payment for one of your products or services, and rather than expressing your deepest gratitude for receiving the money (even if it’s only a $20) you dismiss the money with an instant thought of how it’s not enough. Well, what kind of message are you sending to the Universe when you do this? How can you expect to attract thousands of dollars, perhaps millions of dollars, if you have no appreciation for $20?

I can only share this with you because I’ve been guilty of this myself. There have been times when I would attract even thousands of dollars, and the first thought in my mind was, “it’s not enough, I need more.” Rather than, “thank you!” It was like a magnet with a negative force that repelled money away from me. And it will for you, too. I’ve even learned to stop and pick up pennies I see lying on the ground (thanks to T. Harv Eker), with the awareness that those pennies remind me to acknowledge my gratitude for receiving even the smallest amount of money.

So, now I ask you to take an honest assessment of how your receive money. Do you receive $1,000 differently than $10? What do you need to do to have the same feeling of gratitude no matter what the amount is? This is your exercise. Begin looking for pennies on the ground, and picking them up with a feeling of gratitude, as if it’s a “God wink” especially for you. If you receive checks, when you endorse them write the words “thank you” on the check. Chellie Campbell taught me this strategy several years ago, and it works.

If you have an Internet based business and you never physically hold the money, but simply see a receipt that a deposit has been made to your bank account, take a moment, when you get the receipt, to acknowledge receiving that money as if it were handed to you. You can simply say the words “thank you” out loud as if you were talking directly to God for sending the money to you. If you’d like you can add a statement like this, “I gratefully receive the money you have sent to me. I acknowledge this money as a Divine gift and accept it with joy and gratitude.” Notice the difference between this statement and the words, “It’s not enough, I need more.”

Now, make a conscious choice to appreciate every dollar (every penny) that you receive. Trust that the Universe hears you loud and clear... and will send plenty more money to you. And, be thankful in advance for receiving that which is coming your way!

©2008 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

4 Simple Steps to Set Your 2008 Intentions

2008-01-04T12:55:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of the year, you may find yourself stuck between celebrating the success of last year, planning for the New Year and perhaps overwhelmed by everything you have on your full plate. You’re not alone. Most conscious entrepreneurs go through this type of celebration, anticipation and yes, sometimes even overwhelm. That being said, the beginning of a new year is the perfect time to take some time to get laser-focused on what you want to experience and manifest this year.

For the past 5 years, my husband and I have always spent New Year’s Day clarifying and writing our intentions for the New Year. This ritual is a highlight of the year and one that continues to catapult growth on all levels, and help me fully prepare for the year... mentally, emotionally, practically and spiritually.

You’ve probably heard that the most powerful thing you can do to manifest your goals is to write them down! There is something about putting your goals in writing that begins to align the Universe to help you realize them (or something better).

The following four step process is one of my personal New Year strategies. I hope you’ll print this out and get started with your intentions today!

Step 1: Complete

The first step to setting clear intentions for the New Year is to feel complete with the events and experiences of the last year. To do this, simply reflect on the past year... beginning back in January. In your mind, run through the year noting the accomplishments, challenges, successes, growth, opportunities and gifts that you experienced. Once you’ve taken time to reflect on the past year, allow yourself to release anything that you may be hanging on to. Take several deep relaxing breaths as you envision completing the year and become fully present to this moment and all the potential that lies ahead for this year.

Step 2: Celebrate

Next, take out a pen and paper and write a list of everything you have to celebrate from the past year. Focus on all areas of your life, including spiritual (connection to God, meditation, spiritual practice, spiritual community, trust in Divine plan, etc.), personal (health, relationships, fulfillment, family, friends, community, love, etc.), financial (overall financial health, income, debt reduction, investments, money management, etc.), business (new strategies, marketing programs, joint ventures, products and services, client successes, gross income, profitability, support, etc.). Take time to complete your list thoroughly and review it to fully embrace your success and evolution this past year.

Step 3: Focus

Once you finish completing and celebrating, now become focused on all that you want to manifest this year. Simply create the picture of this coming year in your mind’s eye, getting a clear vision of what you intend to manifest and experience (don’t write anything down, yet... just envision it in your mind and feel it in your heart). Again, as you did in Step 2 “Celebrate”, be sure to include the areas of spiritual, personal, financial and business.

Step 4: Commit

The last step is to commit your intentions for the year by putting them in writing. This is the most powerful step of the journey; it’s the beginning of taking the vision in your mind and bringing it into reality. There are two different methods I recommend for writing down your intentions for the year, choose the one that feels like the right fit for you: 1) write a description of your year from the standpoint of January 1, 2009 including all the details of what has transpired during this year... be grateful in advance! 2) Write a bullet point-list of your intentions for the year in each of these 4 areas (spiritual, personal, financial and business). You can write your list on index cards putting one area of your life on a different card.

Once you complete this four step process (hopefully you’ve also listened to the guided meditation on this process), there is one last BONUS step to include with all of your writings. And, that is to write “this or something better” at the bottom of the paper. Because, as expansive as your intentions and vision for this year are, God/The Universe sees so much more for you. There are gifts waiting for you that you cannot begin to imagine. So, enjoy being clear and energized about this incredible year knowing that you also leave space for miracles to occur.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

How to Find the "Sweet Spot" in Your Business

2007-12-14T05:22:00.000-08:00

Imagine the feeling of having everything in your business flow easily, effortless and abundantly.... where your ideal clients are happy to pay you for your products and services and you are having a blast in your business. You feel the energy and anticipation of everything coming together and your hard work and disciplined mindset are paying off in the results you experience every day. This is when you know you’re in the “sweet spot” of your business.

Being married to a baseball fanatic and author of Stepping Up to the Plate, this is one of the few times I can actually share a baseball analogy and know what I’m talking about. Ha! If you’ve seen a talented batter hit the ball in the exact right spot, at the exact right time with the exact right speed, you can tell by the cracking sound of the bat that it hit the “sweet spot”. And, the batter KNOWS, without out a doubt, the ball is “gone”... a home run!

Now, a batter practices swinging a gazillion times to learn how to hit the “sweet spot”. But, how can you find this “sweet spot” in your business? What can you (as a conscious entrepreneur) be doing, thinking and intending to find this zone for you and your business? I’ve been hearing this question from clients and colleagues lately as they’ve witnessed my transformation from a challenging, struggling business to a solid, expanding business.

So, let me share my secrets with you. These four components are explored more deeply in my forthcoming book, The Freedom Formula: How to Put Soul in Your Business and Money in Your Bank (February 2008), but I want to share the basics with you here because they are ESSENTIAL for your conscious business success.

1. Make Money

To find the “sweet spot” in your business, you always need to have your bottom-line in mind. Now, for conscious entrepreneurs this can be a challenge (at least, I know it was for me) because your mission is to serve people, to help them and make this world a better place. Am I right? This is good! But, you deserve to be paid well for the products and services you offer. If your business isn’t set up to make money, your “sweet spot” will remain a mystery.

2. Make a Difference

This is probably an easy one for you. Because, as I mentioned in component one, your commitment to making a difference is at the core foundation of your business. Chances are you even started your business because you wanted to have a positive impact on the world. When your business is energetically aligned with improving the lives of others AND you are paid for doing this, you’re a step closer to your “sweet spot.”

3. Be Who You Are

This may be the most important component to finding your “sweet spot”. In today’s ever evolving business climate, with new industries and new models popping up every day, it can be challenging to stay 110% true to who you are. You learn about a new technique, or a new “competitor” has entered your market, and you begin to adjust your direction to align more with what’s happening in the external world. When, the truth is, your “sweet spot” can only be found when you dive deeper and deeper into being authentically who YOU are. And, bring your authentic self out into the market. Remember, nobody can duplicate you... you’re ONE OF A KIND!

4. Trust in Your Divine Plan

Ahhh, this is such a glorious component to keep in mind as you discover the “sweet spot” in your business. Because, at the core, your business is an expression of your soul... and your soul is on a divinely guided journey. So, when the going gets tough, remember to trust in your higher plan and elevate your perspective up out of the minutia of your business. Your “sweet spot” becomes more visible the more you trust in the unfolding of your Divine plan. You are being guided every step of the way.

The “sweet spot” in your business is already there for you to enjoy. Your job now is to embrace these four components and begin living them in your business everyday. And, if one of the components feels like a challenge, then spend some time in meditation or journaling about it and see what answers show up. It’s all there, and it’s all yours for the asking!

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.consciousbizreport.com/

Success is a Decision

2007-11-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered why some people succeed and others fail? Maybe you're discouraged that your colleague's phone is ringing off the hook and your phone hasn't rung in weeks (or months). Believe me; I know what it's like to be there. For years, I used to look all around me and see abundant success for others... and wonder if it was ever going to happen for me.

Deep down inside, my Divine Self, knew the answer was a resounding, "YES!". But, on the surface, sometimes the situation seemed so dismal my human mind doubted that I'd ever see my dreams come true. I knew my doubt was part of the reason why I experienced challenges in my business, yet I didn't know how to release it and surrender completely to my Divine entrepreneurial journey.

Then, I realized that I hadn't yet DECIDED I was going to succeed. I hoped I would, I imagined I would, I prayed I would, but I hadn't decided I would... succeed. Once I made this powerful decision to succeed, everything changed. My hope changed to belief, my imagination transformed into reality and my prayers fueled my actions.

If you feel like it's time to put the power of decision to work for you, and your business... listen up. Here's a simple 4 step strategy for making your Divine decision to succeed.

Step 1: Assess Your Situation

Before you begin any journey, you first need to identify where you are. In this step, you'll set aside some time to reflect on your current situation. Then, you'll look directly at your current circumstances, even if they're unfavorable. A full evaluation of where you are (spiritually, financially and personally) establishes a starting point from which you can leap forward.

Step 2: Get Clear on What You Really Want

Next, once you've taken a look at your current situation, set it aside. And, allow yourself to create a clear vision of what you really want for your business, and your life. Don't worry about "how" you'll realize the vision; simply get clear on what it is. When creating your vision, it ought to be something that makes your heart sing; something that increases your energy when you think about it.

Step 3: Decide to Experience What You Really Want

Now, make the decision to experience your vision. Sometime this step will be a very subtle, simple shift in your being. Other times, this step will be a monumental moment that you'll remember for the rest of your life. Sometimes it will be a private moment between you and God; while other times it will be a public experience when you proclaim to others what you've decided for your life. Whatever way your decision is made, one thing remains the same... from that point forward everything changes.

Step 4: Demonstrate Your Decision

No decision is complete without demonstrating your decision in the physical world. (Warning: This is the most common step where people stop.) Once you make a powerful decision, it lacks ENERGY until it's backed by tangible action. Demonstrating your commitment to your decision by taking a specific action, is the most important (and sometimes the scariest) step to seeing your dreams become realized.

This four-step strategy is very simple to follow, but simple doesn’t necessarily mean easy. At times, making the decision to succeed can feel gut-wrenching, especially if it means having to let go of something you’ve been attached to for a long time (this happened to me when I decided to succeed). But, no matter what decision you face, when you follow this four-step strategy, your decision will propel you toward your dreams.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article in Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready to transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.consciousbizreport.com/

Three Reasons to Diversify Your Learning

2007-10-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself sitting in a seminar room hearing the same information over and over again? I admit this has happened to me many times. While business seminars are a great way to network, be “visible”, and learn (or be reminded of) some great business strategies, it’ll serve you well to diversity your learning.

I speak about this from the personal experience I recently had at the Evolutionary Women retreat. It was the first “non-business” event I attended in more years than I care to count. I had been so focused on “business, business, business” that I only invested my time, money and energy in business focused seminars and conferences. Along the way, I’ve learned invaluable information that has changed my business, and my life.

But, it’s gotten to a point now where I realize I know everything I needed to know to grow my business right now. I don’t need any more information... or any more ideas to distract me from my mission and purpose. (I’m sure you can relate to what I’m talking about.) Sure, I’ll still attend business event for the networking aspects, but I’ve decided to invest more of my time, money and energy into more diverse events this coming year.

There are three reasons to diversity your learning, especially as a conscious entrepreneur; because your business only evolves as much as you do. If you’re not exposing yourself to new and diverse environments for learning, you may be missing out on the exact experience that’s going to help everything fall into place. So, get ready to open your heart and soul to new opportunities that excite, and call you... opportunities that invite you to discover and BE more of who you are. In case you’re not already convinced it’s time to expand your horizons, here are three reasons to get on board:

Reason #1: New Understanding
Notice that I didn’t say new knowledge. You already know so much, I doubt you really need to learn a whole lot more. I use the word “understanding” because, as a conscious entrepreneur, it’s your responsibility to continually deepen your understanding; understanding of yourself, others, your passion, your purpose, your spirituality, your fears, your priorities... everything. The more you understand who you are, where you are, where you’re going and the “reason” for it all... the easier the journey is to getting there. For instance, as a result of being at the Evolutionary Women conference I have a much deeper understanding of how important it is for me to attend more spiritual events. This journey became instantly apparent to me the moment I entered the retreat center.

This type of understanding doesn’t come from sitting in a cramped row of a seminar room; it comes from exposing yourself to new environments that gift you the time and space to be with yourself and others for a purpose other than growing your business.

Reason #2: New Perspective
Allowing yourself to be in a new learning environment opens you up to gaining an entirely new perspective. When you attend the same types of events over and over again (with the same people over and over again) it can begin to feel like very close quarters because everyone already knows you. And as far as the learning and sharing goes, it’s all about the same information making its “rounds” again. Everyone has the same perspective.

Whereas, when you enter into a completely new learning environment, it’s easy to gain a new perspective because you’re surrounded by people who don’t already know you. The beauty in this is that they see (and respond to) exactly who you are right now, rather than who they knew you to be yesterday. This presence of moment is a gift that can very easily open your eyes to a new way of being, new wisdom, new insight and a new perspective on what’s next for you. I invite you, like I did, to attend an event where nobody knows you... you’ll also see YOURSELF from a new perspective.

Reason #3: New Relationships
The third reason to diversify your learning is to establish new relationships, because relationships are the most valuable asset you have in your business. When you diversify your learning environments, you instantly diversify the types of people you meet and the relationships you establish. It’s such a gift to enter a new environment without a “business” agenda. There’s space for you to know someone for who they are outside of business, and vice versa... you’ll be known as someone other than the person on your business card. The connections can run much deeper when it’s not about business first.

For instance, when I was at Evolutionary Women, nobody knew me as “The Conscious Business Coach” or a book publisher. And, I established the beginnings of some great relationships that were not based on business. But, as it turns out these relationships are already translating into business. I’ll be publishing a book for many of the women that were there, got a speaking engagement, and I met someone who is going to promote my upcoming book, The Freedom Formula to her list of nearly 40,000 people. We connected from the heart first, and things transpired from there.

As you can see from these three reasons to diversify your learning, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I admit, sometimes it’s scary to enter a new room where nobody knows you, and all the faces are new. But, there’s such extraordinary possibility that occurs in these new environments that it’s well worth taking the risk to try something new.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready to transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

Be Who You Are

2007-10-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

If you’ve ever felt like you had to hide a part of yourself in your business, it’s not a conscious business. A conscious business draws forth every ounce of your spirit and calls you to be more of who you are. Your conscious business needs you to be who you are because that is exactly where your success lies.

Too often, business owners feel like they “should” be a certain way in business, and a different way in life. It’s just not true. The only way to succeed as a conscious business owner is to be all of you, all the time. The very qualities and characteristics that make you, you, are the exact qualities and characteristics your business (and customers and clients) need you to be.
It’s incredibly challenging to put on your “game face” to try to fit into someone else’s idea of who you should be. Or, worse yet, your own misguided idea of who you think you should be. The glory truly comes in surrendering to exactly who you are. Yes, every tender loving ounce of your being; quirks, idiosyncrasies... and all. Those are the things that make you who you are, who God meant for you to be the moment you were born.

One side benefit of being fully who you are in your conscious business is that you have no “competition.” Nobody can be you. Nobody can duplicate your heart and soul. Nobody can exude you, but you. So, the more you are fully yourself, the more you distinguish yourself in an overcrowded market of entrepreneurs who are trying to be someone else.

In so doing, you will only attract those customers and clients who are meant to work with you. Because, being who you are is the strongest asset you can have as a business owner. The “secret formula” of you can never be knocked-off. And, oh, what fun it is to discover that your most important role in your business is to be more of your Divine self. How lucky you are that this is your highest mission in your business, and your life. How blessed you are that deep down inside you probably already know this. Perhaps right now you’re even nodding your head “yes” in thankful agreement that you get to discover and share more of yourself through your business. Awesome, isn’t it!

So, I invite you to be the glorious being you are. Embrace every thing that feels easy, natural and graceful. It’s these very things that guide you to experience more of yourself. While these experiences may not seem like anything spectacular, they are in fact... everything. They only seem like nothing to you because you’re blind to seeing that which is innately you. When you’re simply being you and doing all that comes naturally as your Divine self, success flows with ease.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

Leap Your Way to Success

2007-09-25T05:24:00.000-07:00

What would you say if I told you there was a simple way to leap to your next level of success? You’d probably say, “Well, what is it? I want to know!” The concept is called leap frogging and it was first introduced to me by my friend, colleague and mentor, Alexandria Brown. It’s a concept that eliminates the old corporate paradigm of ladder climbing; the concept of having to “pay dues” or “work hard and struggle” to get ahead.

Leap frogging, in my opinion, is a spiritual practice because it requires raising your emotional and energetic state above that which you currently experience, and trusting in God/Source/Universal Flow. For instance, if you’re a $75/hour coach and feel comfortable with that rate, you would leapfrog by lifting yourself to the feeling of being a $250/hour coach (or whatever rate you desire), AND you’d deepen your connection to the Universal Source that is conspiring for your greatest good.

There isn’t any law that says you have to work hard and climb ladders; that’s simply an illusion. God says, ‘Even before you ask I will have answered.’ So, what you’re asking for is already there for you... IF you are aligned with your desire. What I mean by that is, if you say you want to be a $250/hour coach and feel like a fake when you say it, you are not a aligned with what you desire... you are aligned with feeling like a fake. So, of course, the Universe cannot deliver on such a misaligned intention and leap frogging is impossible.

So, the real job of leap frogging is doing the inner work of having your emotions and your energy fully resonate with ‘what you say you want’. This, my friend, is the path of the conscious entrepreneur; it’s a continual evolution in your awareness, energy, emotions, desires and your connection to the limitless Source that provides you everything you desire.

I’d like to share a quick story about one of my personal experiences with leap frogging. It was at my Conscious Business Retreat in 2006 where I was reintroducing myself as a coach after taking some time off to start my family.

When I had stopped coaching in 2003, I charged $350 per month for three 45-minute sessions. After all, that was what I saw most coaches doing, so I figured I would do the same thing. But, now that I was reintroducing my coaching services, $350 didn’t feel right anymore. And, so I began the journey of developing my new programs and rate structure. I consulted with colleagues, took into consideration my life, the value of my time, the types of clients I wanted to work with, and created a coaching offering that met all of my needs.

When I crunched the numbers and assessed what my hourly rate should be, I nearly fell over. My calculation (based on Dan Kennedy’s formula to determine the value of your time) was $500/hour... a far cry from $350 per month. And, I was designing a coaching package that included 11 hours of my time which totaled $5,500 per day.

I had quite a challenge saying that number without coughing or gasping in the middle of it rolling off my tongue. So, before I introduced this package, I spent some quiet time meditating in the mountains and allowed a number slightly less than $5,500 to resonate with me. It was a culmination of the loving guidance I received from colleagues, and allowing myself to get quiet with God to see what felt right in my heart. I knew I ‘hit the mark’ when I sold out my coaching spots within 24 hours. The more I evolve and learn, and the more I connect with Source, the easier it’s been to raise my rates. Now my intensive coaching days have been raised to $5,500 and I don’t cough at all when I say it.

This is the heart of leap frogging, you must become an aligned match with that which you desire. And, it all begins with an honest assessment of where you stand right now with regard to your desires, and your faith in them being realized. Every journey has a starting point from which you will grow, evolve, and transform. Your starting point is right here, right now, and the path that lies ahead is illuminated and waiting for you to take your next leap.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com

The Power of Saying "No"

2007-09-05T18:21:00.000-07:00

Remember the t-shirts that said, “What part of NO don’t you understand?” I used to get a kick every time I saw that t-shirt. Because, I was the type of person who found the word “no” very difficult to say. And, here was someone who wore it proudly on their shirt... that they were a person who LIKED saying no. Thankfully, I’ve come a long way with regards to the word “no” and while you’ll never see me wearing a “no” t-shirt, you will hear me say “no” more often than not. I bring this up to you now, because “no” is considered an action word. In fact, some of the most challenging actions you’ll take in your business (and life) will be to say “no” to something, or someone.

But, for many conscious business owners, your sensitivity and awareness of others as Divine beings, significantly increases the ease in which you say “yes”... and you don’t even entertain the thought of saying “no, thank you.” It’s understandable that you want to help others, and be of service to them, but saying “yes” when you really feel like saying “no” sends conflicting, confusing and unclear message to the Universe.

So, why is it so powerful to say "no?" Because every time you say “no” to what you don’t want, you’re saying “YES” to what you do want. Saying “no” adds energy to that which you desire more of and sends a clear signal to God that you’re willing to make decisions that support your highest good. Yes, even if that means’s saying “no.”

The biggest barrier you’ll face in saying “no” is the fear of letting others down. When that fear leads you, you let yourself down, and you let God down. You’re not supposed to do things that don’t feel right to you. Remember, your job as a conscious business owners it to keep your emotions and energies up into the higher vibrational realms, and it’s impossible to do that if you’re always doing things you wish you didn’t have to do.

So, start saying no. If it doesn’t feel right to say “yes”, it’s not aligned with your Divine plan. You’ll know when it’s the right thing to say “yes” because it’ll increase your energy, fill your heart and bring a sense of satisfaction to your soul.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary ‘Conscious Business Connection’ ezine. If you're ready to transform “what is” to “what’s possible” for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

The “God’s Eye View” of Your Life

2007-08-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from her forthcoming book, The Freedom Formula: An Entrepreneur's Guide to Conscious Business Success

Are you familiar with the expression of a “bird’s eye view”. It’s when you view things from a bird’s perspective; far different than that which you see standing on earth. A bird’s eye view allows you to grasp the entire landscape and see the interconnectedness of things that appear separate when you view them from land.

The reason I talk about a “bird’s eye view” is because this concept lead me to facilitate a process at my Conscious Business Retreat, in which the participants were invited to write about their life from God’s perspective. This exercise proved to be one of the most powerful retreat experiences, which is why I’m sharing it with you. Grasping a sense of your life from God’s perspective is an invaluable tool for every conscious business owner to consider.

What do you think God would say about your life right now, and where you’ve been and where you’re going? Stop for a moment and reread that sentence again. What do you think God would say about your life right now, and where you’ve been and where you’re going? Interesting perspective to think about, isn’t it?

I doubt the thoughts of lack, limitation and doubt wouldn’t even enter his mind. Because the one Source (God) is the ultimate unlimited source of all abundance in the world, and that is exactly the perspective he would have on your life; that all things are conspiring for your highest and most divine self-expression in the world.

So, now I invite you into the 4-step process of taking a look at your life from a God’s Eye View. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Past
Take a moment to reflect on your past. Identify some of the peaks and valleys of your prior experience. Connect with who you’ve become as a result of all these experiences... the good and the not so good. Look to see how your past experiences have brought you wisdom, strength, love, insight, commitment, passion, conviction, friendship, resourcefulness, resolve, etc. Allow yourself to see the Divine Order of each and every experience.

Step 2: Connect with This Moment
Next, allow yourself to connect deeply with this moment, and the life that you are currently living. Embrace all of your current success and dreams along with any challenges that may be showing up in your life right now. Allow yourself to fully appreciate the place that you’re at today. And, again, allow yourself to see the Divine Order of each and every experience.

Step 3: Look to Your Future
Look forward on the path that lies ahead of you. Let your imagination flourish as you envision everything your heart desires becoming real for you. Envision your life as it unfolds perfectly, even exceeding your greatest dreams. As you envision your future, leave room for things you can’t imagine right now... knowing that God’s plan for your life is so much bigger than that which you can see from your human perspective. And again, allow yourself to see the Divine Order of each and every future experience.

Step 4: Write your God’s Eye View
Now, in a space of quietude, perhaps outside in nature, or in front of a glowing candle, review the above three steps. And, begin to write freely about your past, present and future experiences... as if you were God writing about what he sees in (and for) your life. Let your imagination and creativity soar as you envision God’s Eye View. In case you are stuck getting started, here’s a line you can use to begin the process: “As God, in this elevated perspective, I can see every step of your journey as divinely guided by me. I see...”

Now that you’ve written the God’s Eye View of your life, you can reread it over and over again. Every time you feel stopped, or filled with fear, lack or doubt, you can take out this piece of paper and remind yourself of the perfection of the divine unfolding of your life.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

3 Easy Ways to Build Your Platform

2007-08-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

Did you know the most important asset you have in your business is your platform? It’s true. You may be asking what your “platform” is? Well, it’s like your personal portfolio for your business. It includes media you’ve received, awards you’ve won, your websites, your blog, your ezine subscribers, your books, your products... your speaking engagements, your client list, testimonials... basically everything that represents the solidity of you and your business.

I admit I was surprised when I first learned this, too. After all, so many entrepreneurs focus on delivering their product or service without focusing on building their platform. Whether or not you ever want to be on Oprah, get a six-figure advance, or be written up in the New York Times, your platform is still important... because it represents how well you are sharing your valuable work with the world. And, that, my friend is why you’re in business, isn’t it? This isn’t about being “famous”; it’s about being well known and respected in your field of expertise. I call this underground celebrity. You know, the kind where nobody “out there” knows who you are, but when you’re around “your people” you feel like a celebrity.

The good news is there are a few simple things you can do to build your platform. Here are my top three ways to get started today:

1. Publish an email newsletter.

Every business owner needs to be growing their list of potential clients and customers. And, the quickest and most inexpensive way to do this is publishing an email newsletter. It can be easy to get started by simply emailing your newsletter to a few friends and family members who give you permission to do so. (PLEASE get their permission, or it’s considered illegal SP^AM.)

To start, decide how often you’re going to publish your newsletter and stick to that schedule, whether you send it to one person or thousands of people. Most Internet marketers suggest a frequency of at least twice per month. Then, decide what content you’ll put in your newsletter. You could include a personal greeting, article, tip, calendar of your events, recommended resources, or anything else that will serve your audience and be of VALUE. Do not make your newsletter entirely self-promotional. Your list will grow because of the valuable information you share with your target audience. But, do be sure to showcase your expertise. After all, this is about building your platform and become an “underground celebrity.”

2. Begin public speaking.

I know there are statistics showing most people would rather die than speak in front of an audience. Sorry, but if you want to build your platform fast, you’re going to have to get used to speaking in front of an audience. It’s easier to get more business, when you get out there and showcase your expertise... in public.

The best place to start speaking is at local networking meetings. Check out the calendar of events in your town newspaper and see what “happenings” are going on. Make note of any organizations or groups that list a speaker as part of their meeting agenda. Then, let your fingers do the walking via telephone or keyboard and pitch yourself as a speaker. (Or better yet, delegate this to your assistant.) Just make sure you have your talk title, description, bio and professional picture ready to be emailed prior to calling. Chances are the person you speak to will want to see this information. Another option is to put this information on your website and send them to that page. Then, once you’re in front of an audience, invite them to “opt-in” to get your FR^EE email newsletter so you can continue building a relationship with them... and eventually let them know about your products and services!

3. Get talked about in the media.

You may be thinking “Oprah” right off the bat. But, hold your horses. You’ve got a much better chance of being featured in your local newspaper than on “Oprah.” So, let’s focus on that. The first thing to keep in mind is local reporters are LOOKING for newsworthy stories. Your job is to make your message “news.”

The best way to do this is write a press release that pertains to something current in the news and tie it in to your area of expertise. For example, you’re a career expert and you read an article about a layoff in your town. Your press release would address the “news” of the local layoff and you would feature yourself as an expert by offering tips to discover a new career after losing your job. Get the idea? A little creativity will go a long way in tying your expertise to local news stories.

Remember this. When you submit your press release, do your homework. Make sure you are familiar with the publication/show you are pitching and find out WHO you should send your press release to, and in what format (email, fax, mail). The media will be happy to know you’re actually familiar with their publication/show. Lastly, keep a list of all the media exposure you receive as this is part of your platform. Prospect clients often choose to work with people who have a track record of being seen as an expert by the media.

Implementing simple platform building strategies like these will help build your foothold in your market. If you’re just getting started on your business, incorporate these strategies NOW so you’ve got an established platform as a foundation for your success. And, if you’re already somewhat established in business, but haven’t built your platform as much as you’d like... it’s never too late to start.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready to transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.consciousbizreport.com

The Hidden Power of a Circle

2007-07-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

When you read the title of this article, what do you think about? What pictures come to mind? Did you imagine a bright red circle you’d use to teach a child about shapes? Perhaps you thought of a basketball hoop, or ball? Maybe you thought of a medicine wheel, or a full moon? Some of you probably thought about www.ConsciousBusinessCircle.com (if you’re a member).

If you’ve ever participated in an in-person Circle experience, then (like me) you probably thought about a circle of friends sitting around a glowing, peaceful candle; together for the sole purpose of supporting each other’s dreams, renewing your connection to Source, kindling the light in your hearts, and remembering to shine your light in the world.

Sounds like a tall order for a Circle; but it’s not. In fact, I did a bit of research about the symbolism of a circle and had to share it with you because it conveys the powerful meaning of this simple and ancient shape:

“The circle is perhaps the purest, most profound and the most common symbol in existence. With the probably infinite billions of stars, planets, moons and galaxies full of the same, the circle is well represented in the physical universe in the form of spheres. A circle, having no beginning or end, represents infinity, eternity, wholeness and femininity. Other meaningfully significant symbols or objects are circular: Stonehenge, Ouroboros, the Wheel of Life, a halo around the head of a saint, etc. In a very practical way, it can be said that circles rule the world.” Source: guide-to-symbols.com.

I love that a circle represents infinity, eternity, wholeness and femininity. No wonder I named my coaching program the Conscious Business Circle. “Group” or any other name, just wouldn’t have had the same meaning.

But, what I want to share with you is the hidden power of a Circle experience. In fact, I am so moved by the Women’s Circles I’ve participated in for the past 7 years that I actually wrote a guidebook on How to Start and Successfully Run a Circle.

Ongoing participation in a face-to-face Circle experience is truly a profound, life-changing gift to anyone who fully engages in the power of their Circle. Here, I want to share 3 of the most powerful benefits I’ve received from my Circles over the past 7 years... in hopes that you will create YOUR Circle of like-minded friends and receive these benefits, too.

Stay Connected to Your Self
One of the most costly things that can happen to your Self (and your business) is to lose your connection to who you really are. It’s easy to disconnect from the deepest parts of you when life is filled with lengthy to-do lists, deadlines, managing a home, taking care of children and family and getting all the bills paid on time. Quiet, sacred time for yourself often gets pushed aside. A Circle experience always brings you instantly back to your Self... the moment you sit down and take a few deep, conscious breaths.
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

Strengthen Your Connection to God
One of my life-long values is to develop a deeper, more conscious connection to God. Participating in a Circle is a vehicle that deepens this connection ongoingly. Gathering in Circle and taking a few minutes to simply gaze upon the light of a candle while listening to beautiful peaceful music can bring you instant connection to that Source energy/god. The peacefulness, serenity, love and light that flows when you practice this with others is more powerful than doing the same thing alone.

Deepen Your Connection with Like-Minded Friends
Lasting, meaningful relationships with like-minded friends are one of the most valuable assets you can have. They are the ones who will be there to support you during the ‘lows’, celebrate your ‘highs’ and believe in you every step of the way. Typical social gatherings rarely offer an environment to deepen relationships at a deep, soulful level. Whereas, this is a huge benefit of participating in a Circle. You experience a connection with others that is rare, powerful and profound.

For a moment, right now, please take a deep relaxing breath and imagine yourself sitting in a circle of friends, in a room lit by the glow of candles, with peaceful music in the background. Now let all of your worries float away and enjoy a moment to simply BE. This is the power of a circle.

If you’re new to this concept and want to explore it further, your best place to begin is my simple guidebook to start your own circle. You can learn more at www.CircleGuidebook.com.
© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready to transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

3 Lessons I Learned from The Great Bear Roller Coaster

2007-07-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had a blast with my family at Hershey Park. As season pass holders we visit the park all the time. But, this time I learned a few surprising lessons about my business (and my life) when I decided to go on the Great Bear roller coaster. (Yes, that photo is the exact coaster I went on... dangling nearly 100 feet in the air at speeds over 60 mph.) What a rush!

So, what does my experience on the Great Bear coaster (named after the roaring sound it makes as it tosses and turns you in its corkscrews and loops) have to do with business? Here are the top 3 lessons I learned while the G-force riveted me to my seat.

Seize The Opportunity
Has an opportunity ever passed by that you wished you had taken? That’s how I’ve felt the past 10 times I’d left Hershey Park. I’d watch people on the Great Bear and wanted to go, or I heard the “roar” of the coaster on the tracks and I’d feel the pull to hop on line. But, I never did for one reason or another. But, this weekend was different. As I walked by the Great Bear I had a strong sense this was my time to “just do it.” With a quick glance to my husband and daughter I waved bye-bye and followed my instinct to get in line.

I can’t explain what caused me to seize the opportunity this time. Perhaps it was the way the park lit up at dusk, maybe it was because the line was short, or the gentle breeze in the evening air woke up my sense... perhaps it was because I just had a “warm up” run on the log flume with David and Janet Rose. Whatever it was I knew it was time to say “Yes”!

What I learned was that sometimes you have to take advantage of the opportunity the moment it feels right. Had we walked by the Great Bear 5 minutes earlier or 5 minutes later, it may not have been the right opportunity. So, keep your senses open and tuned into knowing when it’s time for your “roller coaster ride.”

Control... and Let Go
As I approached the coaster there were plenty of warning signs posted. “Hold the grab bar tightly and keep your head centered and firmly pressed against the head rest.” Then, the loudspeaker blasted the same warnings again. I noticed myself getting tense about holding the bar and pressing my head back. I asked myself, “Should I really be doing this”? But, once I got on the coaster and locked down my safety bar, and obeyed the safety warning.... I decided to control what I could (hold on and press my head back) and let go of everything else.

The same goes for my business; and yours too. It’s OK to control what you can and let go of everything else. You can control the amount of stress you put on yourself, you can control your attitude, you can control which clients you work with and who you choose to network with, etc. But, beyond those things within your control, you must venture into the world of trust, surrender and faith in the Divine unfolding of your business, and your life. There is a greater plan in place than your own, and the more you let go of thinking you have control over it, the more you can surrender and be lead on your Divine journey.

Just like the Great Bear took me on a “journey of the unknown”, the future of your business is a journey of the unknown. The more you let go (and trust your Divine plan), the more fluid and easy your journey becomes.

Enjoy The Ride
So there I am; going up a 100-foot incline about to be launched on a 60 mile per hour thrill ride and I’m loving it! Rather than participating in the collective screams of fellow riders, I found myself giggling and laughing as my feet dangled in the air and my body catapulted through corkscrews and loops. High atop one loop I managed to catch a glimpse of the shimmering lights and the pink dusky sunset and fully enjoyed every moment of the ride. As we pulled into the unloading dock I wished the ride had lasted longer, while being grateful for the time I had.

Sometimes in business, it’s easy to forget about enjoying the ride because you’re too busy, overwhelmed, scared or burned-out. But, no matter what stage of business you’re in; you have opportunities to enjoy the experience of being an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship is the journey of a lifetime and it’s meant to be enjoyed... even when you feel like you’re flying 60-miles per hour through twists and turns holding on for dear life. It’s in these moments especially, it’s important to seek the experience of joy! Remember... the “ride” will be over in the blink of an eye.

So, the next time you feel like your business is leading you on a roller coaster ride, remember to seize the opportunity, control what you can and let go of the rest, and enjoy the ride.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article in Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready to transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com.

The Top 3 Ways to End Procrastination

2007-06-15T10:43:00.000-07:00

Are there important projects on your “to do” list that haven’t been completed? Do you keep telling yourself you’re going to “get to them”, only to find they’re still on your list... month later. It doesn’t feel very good, does it? Especially as an entrepreneur because every project represents money in the bank, or a dream being realized.

Whenever I find myself in this situation (which is less and less these days), I follow one of these 3 ways to stop procrastinating and get going. But, before you read further, think about one project that’s been on your “to do” list for quite a while. And, at the end of this article make a decision to follow one of these courses of action to end your procrastination.

Make A Financial Commitment
You’ve probably heard the expression, “Put some skin in the game.” The “skin” this phrase refers to is money. So, if you’re on the fence about taking action on something, one of the best ways to break your inertia and start moving is to make a financial commitment to your goal. When you’ve got “skin” in the game, you have a good reason to get going... every DOLLAR is a reason!

For many entrepreneurs, myself included, I invest in a coach to help me achieve my goals. Something happens when you make a financial commitment (to yourself)... you want to get your money’s worth! So, if you’re the type of person who wants to get YOUR money’s worth, invest in a coach whose hourly rate is out of your comfort zone. Stretching beyond your comfort zone is the critical piece in stepping up your own business and ending procrastination.

For some people $50 is a stretch, for other $5,000 is a stretch, for other its $10,000. Whatever feels like a stretch to you, make that investment, and a commitment to get your money’s worth. The results will astound you. (And, if you haven’t yet checked out my $50/month coaching program, visit http://www.consciousbusinesscircle.com/ now... your first 2 Months are F-R-E-E).

Make A Public Commitment
Another way to end procrastination is to make a public commitment. A public commitment is one where you tell other people what you you’re going to do. When you have a commitment to other people, the responsibility to “make good” on your word will get you in gear to finally accomplish the project you’ve been putting off.
Here are a few examples of how you can make a public commitment:

Schedule a seminar you want to teach (and book the location)
Announce to your ezine subscribers about something you’re GOING to offer
Say “yes” to a speaking engagement before you have the speech written
Say “yes” to anything that fits in your business plan... BEFORE you’re “ready”
Pre-sell a product prior to it’s completion
Tell people you’re going to do something, and THEN figure out how to do it

Warning: Public commitments are not for the faint of heart. These types of commitments can be scarier than putting skin in the game. If you make a public commitment to stop your procrastination, be prepared to “sweat it out” a few times before it all comes together. On the other hand, this is a GREAT way to get your tush in gear

Delegate and Eliminate
Did you know that one of the best ways to end procrastination is to simply delete the task from YOU list. There are 2 ways to do this. The first method is to delegate whatever you keep putting off. You can use service like elance.com to quickly, easily and affordably, find sub-contractors for everything from copywriting and graphic design to website development, press releases and virtual assistance, etc. Delegate is one of my favorite ways to get things done... empower someone else to do it for you!

The other method to get things off your “to do” list without having to do them is to simply eliminate the project. Let’s face it. If it’s been sitting on your list for a long time with no action, it may not fit into your overall goals and plan anymore. Take a close look at the project and if it isn’t a priority anymore DELETE it, release it and don’t spend another minute thinking about it. It’s OK to let things go, it frees up your energy to do those things that matter more.

Now that you know the top 3 ways to end procrastination, go back to the task that came to mind at the beginning of this article. And, decide which of the above 3 tools you’ll use to end your procrastination and get into action (or elimination) once and for all.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you want to learn proven business strategies boosted with Spiritual success principles, you’re in the right place. Get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.consciousbusinesscoach.com/.

How To Write A Sticky Note Business Plan

2007-05-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

If you’re like most creative entrepreneurs, the thought of writing a business plan is not the highest item on your priority list. You’d rather explore new ideas, create products and services, develop a new speech, or work with your clients... than sit down and write a plan.

But, to be successful in business, you need to have a plan in place. The good news is you don’t have to write a formal (bank-friendly) business plan to keep your business on track. In fact, until recently, I used my self-made “sticky note business plan” to keep track of my business goals and plans.

The “sticky note business plan” is a simple and fun tool you can use anytime, any place to keep your business pointing in the right direction. Here are a few simple steps to get you started:

Gather Your Planning Supplies
Thankfully, you won’t need fancy computer software, or heavy reference books to write your plan. All you’ll need is a wall, six poster boards, three pads of sticky notes, scotch tape, a note pad, a Sharpie marker and a pen. It’ll also help to have a quiet place and a few hours of time to enjoy this process. You may even want to light your favorite candle and play some relaxing music.

Lay Out Your Plan
Tape the six poster boards up on the wall. Once the boards are up on the wall, grab your notepad. Sit down for a few minutes and quietly think about the aspects of your business you want to plan. For example: do you need to design a new product or event, do you want to create a marketing plan, do you need a timeline plan for the next 3 years of your business, is it time to plan the launch of a new service?

Use your notepad to collect all of your ideas and decide on the six main categories you want to include in your plan. Next, write each category on six separate sticky notes using your Sharpie marker. Then, stick one note on the top center of each poster board... so each board is labeled for one of your six topics.

Download Your Ideas
Here comes the fun part. Get your pen and sticky notes and begin to write down every single idea that comes to mind for each category. Don’t edit or censor any ideas. Simple write them down and stick them on the poster board for that category. Try to say with one category at a time as best you can. But, if other ideas keep coming to mind, write them down and pop them on the appropriate poster. Let the ideas flow and enjoy the process of getting everything on paper.

Organize Your Ideas
So, now that your ideas are on the poster boards, begin to organize them. Look for themes, sequences, and categories of items. Physically move the sticky notes on the poster board to group ideas together. Sometimes I’ll organize ideas by timeline, sometimes I’ll organize by concept... you can organize them in the way that makes sense to you.

Put It All Together
Now, step back and take a look at your whole plan. After going through this process, you may discover some items need to move higher on your priority list; while other ideas may need to be dropped from your plan completely. The right things to do (and the order in which to do them) will surface now that you have the whole plan in place. Next, rearrange the posters so the highest priority plan is at the left side of the wall and the lower priority plan is to the right side of the wall. Finally, transfer your highest priority tasks to your calendar to make sure you begin executing your plan.

Keep Going
As you make progress with your plan, continually re-evaluate where you are... and keep moving forward with your projects. Personally, once I complete a concept from one of my poster boards, I remove the sticky notes so I can visually see my progress and all that I’m accomplishing. You may enjoy doing the same thing.

Now that you know how to write your “sticky note business plan”, you’ll discover it’s actually FUN to work on your plan. And, it’s a huge asset to your business.

© 2007 Christine Kloser

Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you want to learn proven business strategies boosted with Spiritual success principles, you’re in the right place. Get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.consciousbusinesscoach.com/.

How To Know When It’s Time For A Day Off

2007-04-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

by Christine Kloser, "The Conscious Business Coach"

When was the last time you took a day off... during the WEEK? If it’s been longer than a few months, now’s the time.

As a conscious entrepreneur, you have a lot to manage in your life and it’s essential to give yourself a break. You’ve got new business ideas every day, you juggle multiple projects at the same time, you could easily work 14 hours straight (and enjoy it), you thrive on the energy of having a lot going on, and you know the importance of keeping your Soul fueled.

But, if you always feel “on the go”, constantly forging forward with deadlines and project, eating meals in between keyboard strokes and working ‘til the wee hours of the morning... be careful! You’re on the edge of burnout and probably feeling disconnected from the Divine purpose of your business. Your cylinders can only fire so fast until they malfunction; and we certainly don’t want that to happen to you.

Thankfully, I’m at the point where I know when it’s time to take a day off BEFORE I crash. Here are my top 3 ways to know it’s time for a day off:

Your “To Do” List Never Gets Done
I know, this seems illogical. If you can’t get your tasks done, why would you take a day off? Because if your “to do” list is outrageously long, chances are some of the things on your list are not aligned with your Soul’s purpose for your business, and your life. They’re just busy work. Taking a day off when this occurs will allow you the space to reconnect with your soul, re-energize your body and gain perspective on your priorities. Chances are, you’ll discover some of those tasks can simply be released.

Your Body Shows Signs Of Stress
Is your neck tight? Do you feel tired? Is there a pit in the bottom of your stomach? Does your head hurt? These are just a few signs your body sends as it begs you to give it a rest. Your physical body is a good indicator of your overall well-being. And, if it’s giving you a nudge for attention, it’s better to listen to it NOW... rather than get sick later. In order for you to be at your best for your business, your physical health is a requirement. Listen to your body, and hear what it is saying. Then, give yourself a day off to refuel and re-energize your physical being.

You Have An “Uneasy” Feeling
It’s challenging to explain exactly what this is because it’s feels like a whisper from within. For me, when this happens, it feels like God is calling me to become still so I can more closely listen to what Source wants me to do. The uneasiness comes from a sense of disconnection from Source... and your God given gifts. Often times when this “uneasiness” occurs, it’s because you’re bogged down in details and lost perspective on the Divine unfolding of your life. A day off (especially with a journal in hand) will work wonders to eliminate that “uneasy” feeling and get you back on track with living your purpose.

So, if you can relate to any of these 3 signs... schedule your day off. (Or, better yet schedule June 22-24 to be at the Conscious Business Retreat!) Here’s your assignment: get our calendar out and schedule your escape... right now. Then, have fun planning your day!

© 2007 Christine Kloser
Want To Use This Article In Your Ezine or Website? You have my permission, as long as you include the following blurb with it: Christine Kloser "The Conscious Business Coach," publishes the revolutionary 'Conscious Business Connection' ezine. If you're ready to transform "what is" to "what's possible" for your business, get your FR^EE tips now at http://www.ConsciousBizReport.com