Thursday, March 22, 2012

Become 100% Committed to Your Commitments

[Note: Before I forget, my next 4-Week Accelerated Coaching Program starts in a few weeks...are you ready for BIG transformation results in your career? Achieve your dream biz goal in just weeks, space is limited so check it out now! Here's to your success! ~Alex]




"I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do."
Leonardo da Vinci


As a practicing Catholic, I have been known to give up one or two things for the season of Lent before Easter, 40 days of sacrificing some thing as a way to honor the life and death of Jesus. Many people give up meat on Fridays, and others give up sweets or alcohol. 

Well in true over-achiever style, I gave up all three! Not that it wasn't a challenge, because it was. But I gave myself one little out... this year the Lenten season fell during my birthday, St. Patrick's Day, a bachelorette party and a few other important events, so I decided to allow myself *one* glass of wine per week. 

At first it was easy, because I savored my one weekly glass. But toward the third week I noticed my one pour becoming steadily larger. And toward the fifth week it had nearly become *one* bottomless glass. 

What happened is that since I broke once ("well it's just one tiny drop more"), it became easier to continue to break until the lines became blurred between one glass and three!

If we compare this to our own lives, how many times have we committed to do something--OR not do something--and found ourselves cheating a little bit. Slowly we cheat more and more until we no longer have any firm commitment or take any solid action. Then we get lazy and before we know it we forgot what we promised to do in the first place. 

In some cases, when we commit to other people, say to call them back or deliver on service, and we do not follow through, we begin to procrastinate. Procrastination can lead to guilt which can turn to overwhelm about the action. That's the point that we either get paralyzed from taking any action altogether, or alternatively fall off the wagon and drink the whole bottle of wine. 

This happens A LOT! With both important and minor things. Remember the last few times that this happened to you? What were you going through at the time? Had the terror barrier hit you?

The lesson from today's article is to forgive yourself when you've fallen off the wagon. Don't let guilt paralyze you! Get back up and continue to ride toward your goals or commitments. It feels a thousand times better to swallow your pride and keep your promises even if it's late (remember "better late than never"?), than to feel the guilt and paralysis from inaction.  

*A tip of the hat to Jack Canfield's Success Principles, where I first read about 100% commitment. 


Read more about  taking action and overcoming obstacles in Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book success program presents 12 crucial strategies for success, starting with your inner purpose, and designed to motivate you to set and reach your goals, overcome obstacles and ultimately lead your life as a Masterpiece!

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Thursday, March 8, 2012

What is Living as Your Highest Self?

[Note: Before I forget, my next 4-Week Accelerated Coaching Program starts in a few weeks...are you ready for BIG transformation results in your career? Achieve your dream biz goal in just weeks, space is limited so check it out now! Here's to your success! ~Alex]



"Trifles make perfection, and perfection is no trifle" 
~Michelangelo 

One of my oldest and dearest friends, Christine, is an all-around successful person. Not only is she beautiful, funny and smart, but she's got a wonderful family, two gorgeous kids, and is excelling at her profession. 

She has consistently been nominated or named Employee of the Year for her industry, and has been awarded numerous times. She loves what she does and her coworkers, employers and clients love her. This year she even won a new car and had her face plastered on a billboard on a major thoroughfare so everyone driving by could see she is the best at what she does. 

So what does Christine do? 

She's a history teacher, and at a public middle school no less.

Talk about dedication to her craft and profession! Admittedly, when I was in college there was no way I would have ever become a teacher. I felt like that was too unambitious, too unprofessional.

Growing up, though, I was often a tutor earning my spending/summer money from helping other kids in reading and math. In fact, what do I do now? I teach! I provide training seminars and webinars and write books and articles, all to teach. And I continue to mentor, coach and "tutor" other professionals and business owners every day.

Christine is proving every year that you can love what you do do and be very successful doing it...that goes for anything you do, including being a public school teacher. Plus she's making a difference every day!

So to impart my wisdom in this article, the moral of this story is to be the best you can be in any chosen profession or endeavor you encounter. Choose to live as your highest self in all areas of your life! 

One day you may even become: "[FILL IN THE BLANK] of the Year"!!


You can read more about becoming your "highest self" in Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 crucial strategies for success, starting with your inner purpose, and designed to motivate you to set and reach your goals, overcome obstacles and ultimately lead your life as a Masterpiece!

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Thursday, March 1, 2012

Coming Back from Financial Mistakes

"Even the knowledge of my own fallibility cannot keep me from making mistakes. Only when I fall do I get up again."
~Vincent van Gogh

I stumbled upon a very interesting article from a few months ago... it was talking about how a charity auction raised $2.35 million for someone to have lunch with Warren Buffet, one of the wealthiest men in the world. 

So I looked up Buffet’s life via Wikipedia and found out he started buying stock in Berkshire Hathaway in 1962, which at that time was heavy in the textile industry. Eventually, Buffett acknowledged that the textile business was floundering and the company's financial situation was not going to improve. In 1964, the CEO of the company made a verbal tender offer of $11-1⁄2 per share for the company to buy back Buffett's shares, which Buffett agreed to. A few weeks later, Buffett received the tender offer in writing, but the offer was for only $11-3⁄8 (it was only 1/8 less than the original offer). Buffett later admitted that this lower, undercutting offer made him angry. Instead of selling at the slightly lower price, Buffett decided to buy more of the stock to take control of the company and fire the CEO, which he did. However, this put Buffett in a situation where he was now majority owner of a textile business that was failing. 

In 2010, Buffett claimed that purchasing Berkshire Hathaway was the biggest investment mistake he had ever made, and claimed that it had denied him compounded investment returns of about $200 billion over the previous 45 years. Buffett figures that had he invested that money directly in insurance businesses instead of buying out Berkshire Hathaway (due to what he perceived as a slight by an individual), those investments would have paid off several hundredfold.  

Can you imagine...$200 Billion!?

The moral of this story is that sometimes we make mistakes in our personal or business life. We choose bad investments, we leave money on the table. We let our egos or our pride get the best of us. It’s okay! Learn from your mistakes. Pick up the pieces where you are now and move forward.

You too can still become a billionaire!


You can read more about Business and Finances in Ch. 9 of the success program Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 crucial strategies for success, starting with your inner purpose, and designed to motivate you to set and reach your goals, overcome obstacles and ultimately lead your Masterpiece life!

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Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Are you willing to take risks to move forward?

[Note: Before I forget, my next 4-Week Accelerated Coaching Program starts in a few weeks...are you ready for BIG transformation results in your career? Achieve your dream biz goal in just weeks, space is limited so check it out now! Here's to your success! ~Alex]



"Art is an adventure into an unknown world, which can be explored only by those willing to take risks."
~Mark Rothko

I must have taken my own article a couple of weeks ago on passing the Terror Barrier to heart, because last night I had a dream where I had to pass such a challenge. 

From what little I remember in my dream, I was rock climbing on some cliff and suddenly got paralyzed in fear to move forward. I was in a secure position but was afraid that if I advanced I might fall. But what would happen if I didn't move? I'd stay on the same rock forever; or if I moved backward I may end up slipping and falling. In the dream I acknowledged that I had reached my terror barrier and just needed to keep going. So that's what I did.

What we often don't realize is Fear continues to appear in our lives as long as we are growing and taking risks. As we explore new opportunities “into an unknown world,” we will always be faced with new challenges or obstacles. Placing ourselves in positions outside our comfort zone can create fear; but these can also create wonderful opportunities for growth.

Take a look at your own life. If you are going through life without fear, it means you’re not sufficiently driving yourself. Ask yourself, is your life full of adventure? Are you challenging yourself constantly? Are you willing to take risks or is your life too safe?

In my case, I used to fear public speaking to the point that my whole body would sweat and I’d lose concentration during any presentation. I also greatly feared flying in planes, even though I've traveled all over the world.
But I did it anyway! Every once in a while the fear continues to creep up, but I know it's just me hitting my terror barrier. The challenge is to keep going even though I am afraid.

Someone once told me that your biggest fears might just be what you are meant to overcome in life. In many cases, living with this fear blocks you from finding your purpose. Overcoming this fear and taking action may unlock greatness and potential you never thought possible!
 
When I look at my own life, I know this is true! My fears of public speaking and flying had unknowingly been restraining me from carrying out part of my Masterpiece Purpose and succeeding! These experiences have each brought me wonderfully, enriching experiences. I now know never to allow the terror barrier to get in the way of my purpose and goals.

So, take a look at yourself. What action or "risk" do you have to take to move toward your goals? If you're coming up with excuses, procrastinating or even getting sick, then you know you're hitting your terror barrier. Remember it's just an imaginary wall, and with courage you can push passed it!


This article is derived from Ch. 7 on Overcoming Fears and Taking Risks from the success program Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 strategies for success and is designed to motivate you to increase your productivity, reach your goals and ultimately fulfill your purpose and lead a Masterpiece life!

For more FREE tips and strategies and to get instant access to the "12 Secrets to Success Strategies"
video with more great insight from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM), sign up now:
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Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Are You Doing What you Love?

[Note: Before I forget, my next 4-Week Accelerated Coaching Program starts in a few weeks...are you ready for BIG transformation results in your career? Achieve your dream biz goal in just weeks, space is limited so check it out now! Here's to your success! ~Alex]




Photo by Annette Figueredo
 
“How can I be useful, of what service can I be?
There is something inside me, what can it be?”
~Vincent van Gogh

Why am I here on this planet? What is my gift to the world?

Woah! If you’ve never performed this type of self-reflection, these are pretty loaded questions.

This week I spent a few hours at a hospital with sick kids working with art projects, allowing them to express themselves with art. For a couple of hours, these kids forget about their sickness and enjoy the moment, despite their pain and limitations. Even though I was very “busy” with other work, I knew I had to go. I reassessed why I do what I do, and reaffirmed that my mission statement is to inspire and empower others through passionate and creative work. Certainly arts therapy fits in line with this mission.

You are blessed with a You-nique purpose, or what I call your Masterpiece Purpose. This is your overall life goal or vocation, what you are meant to do on this planet. It may also be called your “mission” or “calling” in life, your “contribution” or “gift” to others, or your “legacy” once you are gone. Viktor Frankl, the author of Man’s Search for Meaning, discusses a specific vocation or mission in your life for you to fulfill and implement; therefore, your life is unique and cannot be replaced or repeated.

Here are just a few examples that my clients have given as their Purpose:

• To create art for others to appreciate
• To entertain and make others happy
• To inspire and motivate others
• To educate and train others
• To be philanthropic and give back to the community
You may already know your Purpose and are working toward it, especially if you’ve been established in your craft or industry for some time. But it you haven’t yet discovered your calling, self-reflection may help you realize and determine if there is a larger purpose or legacy that you may not have considered before.

One excellent approach from Steven Covey’s book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, is to begin with the end in mind by envisioning your own funeral and what you would like to accomplish before you pass away. It was due to this introspection a few years ago, combined with “divine inspiration,” that I found my life’s legacy involving philanthropy. This discovery was the impetus for starting Artista Foundation arts charity for which I donate a percentage of all my profits. This inner search also inspired me to reassess all my goals in life.

Remember that we are all connected on this planet and as such have a greater contribution beyond our own selves. Start with what you love and are passionate about, and it’s sure to guide you to a greater, You-nique Purpose or legacy. That’s what makes life worth living!
“Art to me is a humanitarian act and I believe that there is a responsibility that art should somehow be able to effect mankind, to make the world a better place.”
~Jeff Koons

This article is derived from Ch. 1 on Discovering Your Unique Purpose from the success program Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 crucial strategies for success, starting with your inner purpose, and designed to motivate you to set and reach your goals, overcome obstacles and ultimately lead your Masterpiece life!

For more FREE tips and strategies and to get instant access to the "12 Secrets to Success Strategies" video with more great insight from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM), sign up now:
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Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Moving Beyond the Terror Barrier to our Dreams

[Note: Before I forget, my next 4-Week Accelerated Coaching Program starts in a few weeks...are you ready for BIG transformation results in your career? Achieve your dream biz goal in just weeks, space is limited so check it out now! Here's to your success! ~Alex] 


I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.
~Georgia O’Keefe

Reflect on this quote for a moment. What a powerful message from a female artist who succeeded in a man’s world!

Fear is always in our path. Fear is a feeling or emotion one gets from the presence or imminence of any danger, according to TheFreeDictionary.com. The danger may be a real threat or perceived threat; in our lives, many times it stems from a challenge we are facing.

All people, no matter how confident they are, confront fear in one form or another. We mistakenly believe that successful people have no fears. In actuality, they do have fears but are courageous enough to move past them.

Throughout your life, you will continuously experience fear. I recently listened to an audio recording by Bob Proctor (bobproctor.com) where he talked about how we constantly hit the “terror barrier” at certain points when we want to grow or advance in our lives. The “terror barrier” is both when you are excited and terrified at the same time.

Moving past the “terror barrier” can give you amazing success beyond what you ever imagined. But many times when we hit the “terror barrier”, instead of pushing forward, we sulk back into our comfort zone accepting the same results we’ve been getting all along. To become your best, highest self, your challenge is to move beyond the fear and the “terror barrier” and reach for your dreams anyway.  

In my case, one of the biggest risks I have taken was leaving my corporate job to start my own business. There was no certainty that I was going to succeed. I was terrified! I finally decided that fulfilling my Masterpiece Purpose was more important than any risk I was taking. In fact, my fears turned into a “Must Win Big” mentality. 

Instead of worrying about the risks, I concentrated on success and continued to take small steps forward. Since then I’ve done phenomenal things I never imagined possible, including writing a book, Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM).

Look at your life and examine in what areas you have been hitting the “terror barrier.” Are you stepping up to the challenge or playing it safe? Imagine the possibilities if you looked your challenge in the eye and just went for it?



This article is derived from Ch. 7 on Overcoming Fears and Taking Risks from the success program Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 strategies for success and is designed to motivate you to increase your productivity, reach your goals and ultimately fulfill your purpose and lead a Masterpiece life!

For more FREE tips and strategies and to get instant access to the "12 Secrets to Success Strategies"
video with more great insight from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM), sign up now:
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Monday, January 16, 2012

Five Lessons we can learn from Martin Luther King, Jr.

*Photo Credit Alexandra Figueredo, taken at Frost Museum, Miami, FL, 2011

During the 1960s Civil Rights movement in the U.S., Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. not only spoke of freedoms granted to black Americans, but about universal rights for all humanity. He exhibited powerful success and leadership qualities which can serve as inspiration to us all.
 
After reflecting on Dr. King’s life, these are my five main takeaways that can be applied to become successful as a leader, entrepreneur or in any challenging pursuit you are facing. 

1. Having a "dream" and vision for the future: Dr. King’s iconic "I Have a dream" speech lays out his desire for a world where freedom “rings” and we are empathetic toward our neighbor. Creating change started with his dream, which he was very clear about and held on to with ruthless intent.  

2. Taking action with determination: the Civil Rights movement didn’t happen overnight and certainly did not prevail after Dr. King gave just a few letters and speeches. It took many years of sweat, toil, pain and relentless action... a series of small steps forward which led to something much greater over time.   

3. Courage to face fears and take risks: Just the thought of Dr. King delivering his speeches and leading marches in some of the most discriminatory parts of the country gives me chills. He was walking a very dangerous path; yet it is in facing our greatest fears that we find our inner strength to overcome them and find the right path to our dreams.  

4. Finding a support system: Although Dr. King was an inspiring and powerful leader, he knew he couldn’t pull off a movement alone. This unified dream, sense of community and strength in numbers propelled the movement forward and fueled Dr. King’s efforts even when he was down.  

5. Persistence to pursue one’s mission despite obstacles: Dr. King, along with his supporters, encountered criticism, persecution, imprisonment and assault continuously throughout the pursuit of civil rights. Certainly he also faced self-doubt and inner criticism. But he continued his mission and believed in it so strongly that he was willing to die attaining it. The unified dream was so powerful that it continued to inspire and motivate change and progress even after death. 

I hope that we can remember these same lessons whenever we feel ourselves challenged and facing our own struggles, to continue to move forward. 

Remembering some lines from his famous "I have a Dream" speech: 

“We cannot walk alone.
And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. 
We cannot turn back." 

 
Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM) discusses these and many more success strategies based on great masters from the past. Although not specifically cited in my book, Dr. King is certainly considered one of the great masters in our history. This e-book program presents 12 strategies for success and is designed to motivate you to increase your productivity, reach your goals and ultimately fulfill your purpose and lead a Masterpiece life!


For more FREE tips and strategies and to get instant access to the "12 Secrets to Success Strategies" video with more great insight from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM), sign up now:
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Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Six Ways to Empower Your New Year

We all get trapped in the flurry of holiday parties, shopping and travel arrangements at this time. It can be quite time consuming and stressful to get it all done. We may even forget about the important things in our lives.

That's why I propose you try the following suggestions before the New Year. It will help you wrap up this year on a high note, and start the right path in the New Year:

1. De-Clutter: This refers to your home, car, purse or life in general! The Chinese technique Feng Shui, teaches that clutter is a major cause of chaos, sickness and stress in our lives, and it constricts the flow of energy. Try winter cleaning--dump those old papers, broken appliances and unused trinkets. According to my sister Annette, an Ayurvedic Educator, it is best to do this during the full moon period (now until December 24!) per Kabbalistic teaching. So get a headstart now!

2. Let Go of Old Baggage: Similar to clutter, holding on to baggage can restrict our energy flow and keep us from moving forward. Forgive those that have hurt you, ask for forgiveness and let go of past grievances or mistakes. Whatever you're holding on to, is it really worth it? You'll feel much better when you lift the weight and move on!

3. Reflect on 2011: Think back on the year--have you been leading the life you want and fulfilling your purpose? What did you do right this year? Remember to celebrate those accomplishments! Did you have any difficult experiences? If you haven't done so yet, turn these into positive opportunities to grow and learn.  

4. Set 2012 Goals: About a week ago I gave some guidelines for setting goals. I challenge you to have one or two HUGE "Masterpiece" goals that stretch you out of your comfort zone and get you to aim high in 2012. If you need a bit more assistance, download my free "Sketch Your Goals" Guide for making 2012 your best year ever!

5. Rest and Recharge: I know it may be difficult this time of year, but try to take at least a couple of days to do NOTHING. That rest period may be the perfect time to reflect, let go of the past and set goals.

6. Give Back: Make it a point to give during this holiday time. You can donate a few dollars to a cause you care about (such as an arts charity like Artista Foundation), donate your clothes to a Salvation Army drop off, or donate your time to a local soup kitchen or orphanage. It is a wonderful feeling helping others, and you will receive way more in return! 

Do you have any other suggestions to empower you into 2012? I'd love to hear them! 


For more guidance on setting goals, creating a plan for action and leading your best life, check out Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 strategies for success and is designed to motivate you to increase your productivity, reach your goals and ultimately fulfill your purpose! Plus it's a great holiday gift!

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Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Are You Aiming for the Stars?


Note: Before I forget, check out my newest Coaching Program which starts in a couple of days...July 26 (the day before the Olympics!) to get you big transformation results in just a few weeks, developing a high performance mindset to achieve your dream goal! Hope you can join me, space is limited!  Here's to your success! ~Alex


For my part I know nothing with any certainty,
but the sight of the stars makes me dream.
~Vincent van Gogh

Right here and now I’m giving you permission to aim for the stars with your dreams. Does that sound a bit cheesy? Well I am a motivational coach pushing you to reach your greatest personal and professional success! 

Always aim high with your goals, even if some seem out of reach. The worst that can happen is that you push yourself beyond what you ever imagined possible. Who knows, you may even reach your goals! 

In less than six months, I wrote a book, and can now say I’m an Author. That all started with a vision and a goal. I didn’t want to just keep writing articles; I firmly decided to write a book! Then I followed up and made it happen. 

There’s also the income goal. Whenever I start talking to my clients about earning hundreds of thousands of dollars or more, somehow it gets out of their scope of reality. Is earning this much income really out of your reality? If you’re working in line with your purpose—what I call your Masterpiece Purpose--you deserve to earn all the income to which you aspire. Since you’re getting paid to do what you love anyway, why not earn as much as you want doing it? You must first see yourself worthy of receiving it. 

Essentially, aiming for your real aspirations allows you to truly live a
purposeful life. Although it’s not always about money, focus on what you really want and don’t be afraid to think it, want it or say it. 

When you get some down time, meditate and reflect on your goals. Remember, don't just reach for the trees...aim for the stars!



*If you'd like to further your training, check out one of my upcoming Webinars including Strategic Online Marketing, Branding and Publicity! Sign up now before space fills up!


This article is derived from Ch. 3 on Goals from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents the 12 most powerful strategies for success and is designed to motivate you to increase your productivity, reach your goals and ultimately fulfill your purpose! 


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Sunday, December 11, 2011

'Tis the Season to Set Goals!*

On the journey through your life, goals are like your destination points you map out in advance. The first step in determining your goals is to identify what you desire in life. What are your aspirations? What do you wish to accomplish now and in the future? You must determine this first to know what to reach for! 

The trick to setting goals is making them S.M.A.R.T.**: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Bound: 

Make Goals Specific: Your goals should be as specific as possible. Start with the 5 W’s: Who, What, Where, Which and Why. For example, specify that you want to own a three-bedroom, beachside vacation condo in Miami Beach, Florida. Try to be as detailed and visual as possible for each goal.

Make Goals Measurable: Each goal should be measurable in order to evaluate whether you have achieved it or not. For example, a goal to “make more money” is not measurable. How much do you really want to earn? Is it $5,000, $50,000 or $500,000 more per year? Notice what a difference just one zero can make to your goal! It’s easiest to measure goals by associating them with numbers. Ask yourself “How Much?” or “How Many?” for each goal.

Make Goals Attainable: When setting goals, I coach my clients that nothing is outside their realm of possibility. At the same time, your goals shouldn’t be outside of your scope of reality. Ask yourself, how will you accomplish each goal? For example, would you like to have your “dream home” or “dream vacation,” but feel it’s only possible by winning the lottery? If so, these are not realistic goals for you. You don’t want to give up on any goal because it’s not feasible or believable in your mind.

Make Goals Relevant: Make your goals relevant and important for you and your life. Let’s assume your goal is to obtain your Master’s degree. Is this something you really want to accomplish or others want for you? Your goals should always be in your best interest.

Make Goals Time-Bound: Setting time limits for your goals helps you direct your attention on how best to accomplish them. Are you to complete your goal in three months or three years? Set a specific time frame for each goal. With a deadline in mind, you can begin to work backward toward obtaining it by focusing on the steps you need to take now to reach your goal.

When you make your goals Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Bound, you are more likely to commit to accomplish them.

*'Tis the season to reflect on where you are and where you want to go in your life! If you need a bit more assistance, download my free "Sketch Your Goals" Guide for making 2012 your best year ever!

This article is derived from Ch. 3 on Goals from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM). This e-book program presents 12 strategies for success and is designed to motivate you to increase your productivity, reach your goals and ultimately fulfill your purpose! 

For more FREE tips and strategies and to get instant access to the "12 Secrets to Success Strategies" video with more great insight from Sculpt Your Life From Sketch to Masterpiece(TM), sign up now:
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**Citation: Doran, George T. “There’s a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management’s goals and objectives.” Management Review, Nov. 1981, Volume 70, Issue 11, p. 35-36.