Small Business Expert - Ellen Rohr

2011-08-05T03:26:00.000-05:00

It's August already?! Pull out your business plan and take a look at your mission, your vision and your goals for 2011. How’s it going?

What? No plan? No problem. Just consider how last year went and that’s what will probably happen this year. Only a little worse. Or maybe a little better.

This year is moving fast. Your life is flying by! If you want a quantum leap, or at least a major change of momentum... putting a plan together may help you think in dramatically different ways. Those thoughts of what you would rather have, what you really, really want, are what’s required to revolutionize your life.   (Without a plan, you might be at the effect of someone else's plan. And there may not be a starring role for you.)

Writing down what you want, from your business and your life, is a business plan. Easy enough? It doesn't have to be a chore. Business planning can be fun and creative and brilliant!   It can be liberating and flexible and a powerful way to manifest your dreams!

At least the way I do it, it is.

Did you put a plan together once upon a time, and then stuff it in a file somewhere? Maybe the plan was required to get a bank loan, or your partner's blessing, to start your business. Before you started your business, the plan was perfect, a home run. Once the first shot was fired in biz battle, that plan might have gone into the file cabinet without another thought.

That’s one of the tricky things about a plan. You have to launch your intentions in the uncharted waters of the future. Still, it is worth doing a plan, and updating that plan, because it is a powerfully positive tool for making what you want happen.

So grab your plan and a pencil…and start writing (or pruning.)

Start with your mission. Put your hand over the words. Do you have it memorized? I thought not. Count the words. Are there more than a dozen? Start pruning. Answer this question, “Why are you in business?” in under 12 words. Work it over a few times until you really care about your Mission. Get inspired!

Now, who really cares about what you do? Who would be willing to pay you for it? Nail down your target market. Imagine your favorite customer. What does she drive? Where does she shop? What does she want from you? You might ask and find out. Put together a succinct paragraph describing your target market.

Next, review your goals. Do you really want what you have listed? Do you believe in your goals? Cut the list down to the five most important goals. Include a Financial Goal and be specific in dollar and due date. Re-craft your goals using words that reflect your intention. Be specific. “More money” is not a goal. “Sales at $100K per month for quarter 4, 2011” is a goal. Create goals that double as affirmations.   Get rid of every goal that someone else wanted you to put on this list, if it doesn’t mean much to you. Add a biggie, one that really gets your blood pumping. Why not?

On to the organization chart. Take your pencil and cross through the name of the person who needs to go…now. Shake off the denial and allow that person to go be a winner elsewhere. Next, look for someone who is not quite ready for a promotion but shows willingness and has “fizz.” Promote him now, and see if he can fill in the gap between what he has and what he needs to do the job. Take a risk.

Confront the money, Honey. A budget helps you set financial goals and create a sound selling price. Want to make it really easy? Double or triple your prices. Getting really profitable, collecting sales now...can fix your business. Money buys options. And, if you are going to charge more, you must BE more. A business plan helps you be, do and have more.

Review your Marketing Plan and Sales Processes. Upgrade the words that you use to
communicate. For instance, I have added the word “explore” to my sales presentations. “Let’s explore a few ideas for working together.” It’s friendly, non-threatening…and allows both parties to consider if working together is a good idea. Strike the word, “estimate” from your vocabulary…and all your sales and marketing systems. “Estimate” means “no one is buying today.” Call it a “presentation”
or a “visit.” Pay attention to the words you use and the effect they have on the people who hear them. This small adjustment may have a big impact on you and your team.

Look at your Top Projects List. If you have a stalled out project, why not
prune it? If you have delegated this project, ask, “What’s the hold up?” Then, listen for the obstacles. Be willing to sit in silence until your team member comes up with something. Does the project need to be cut into smaller pieces? Consider what a next step could be and set the due date. You might move the project forward, or learn what another step could be. Consider also what would happen if you just aborted mission on it? If it is great opportunity and you really want it to happen, then make it happen.
Otherwise, scratch it from the list.

Are you getting the idea that a business planning is simply…

Thinking about what you want and committing to a written course
of actions that will move you in that general direction.

It’s about using a business to create freedom.

BTW…the attached picture is of our Biz Planning Challenge class at CCA Davis Correctional. Watch out for these guys. Once they are released, they are geared up to ROCK their businesses! Woohoooo!

Making a Business Plan

2010-11-16T14:35:00.002-06:00

Greetings!

Once upon a time I met Dan Holohan in the pages of a trade magazine.

"You should read this," my husband Hot Rod offered, as he handed me the mag.

"Great," I replied with the sarcasm of a New Yorker. "Just can't enough of steam radiators."

I read the article. I met Dan, and his his eye-rolling wife, The Lovely Marianne, and his almost patient daughter, Kelly, as they toured a private high school on Long Island. Kelly had applied to attend and was hoping her parents would make a good impression. But this story took a turn

There were radiators all right. Gorgeous, glamourous, warm and wet radiators. And men (well, Dan) behaving badly. When it comes to cast iron, steamy radiators, well, Dan just can't be contained. I laughed out loud for 1,422 words.

Dan, Hot Rod and I became fast friends and he encouraged me to start writing...for the same trade magazine. Even better, he taught me how to respect and use words to be a better communicator. He reminded me that reading is a one-person-private affair, even if millions of people read what you have to say. He helped me discover that the simplest metaphor may have the biggest impact. Dan's the reason why I use the analogy of piping and venting to describe double-entry accounting...to a plumber.

When it comes to making a business plan, Dan taught me to keep it simple. A simple business plan can help you refine that wildcat of an idea into a profitable business.

When it comes to making a point - or making a business plan - keep it simple. Then, look at it from someone else's perspective. Like The Lovely's. Or Hot Rod's. Now, you're communicating.

Join in our radio chat - 11.16.2010 from 3-4 pm central time...or later at BlogTalkRadio - the Bare Bones Biz Show!

xo$, Ellen

Katherine to Warren: I need financial help.

2010-11-10T14:25:00.004-06:00

Once upon a time, Business Mogul Warren Buffett bought the Washington Post newspaper. The previous owner and publisher at the time was Katharine Graham. Her father built the paper and transitioned it to Phil Graham, Katharine’s husband. Katherine took on the publishing duties when her husband committed suicide. She guided the newspaper to editorial greatness, and navigated the Watergate scandal as Bernstein and Woodward reported it on the front pages. But the company was in financial trouble.

Warren Buffet’s business development strategy is this: Do a balance sheet analysis on companies of interest. Find companies with undervalued, underutilized assets. Buy them. Fix them. Make lots of money.

He bought the Washington Post with that intention. He and Katharine hit it off immediately and he saw the potential in the newspaper and in her management. So he sat her down and taught her how to read a simple balance sheet. From what I have read about this powerhouse relationship, they had a conversation something like this…

Warren: This is the Balance Sheet. Assets on the left, liabilities and equity on the right.

The Balance Sheet reflects the financial condition of the company on a specific date. The basic accounting formula is the basis for the Balance Sheet:

Assets = Liabilities + Owner’s Equity

ASSETS: The ‘stuff’ the company owns. Anything of value - cash, accounts receivable, trucks, inventory, land.

LIABILITIES: These are sources of assets - how you got the ‘stuff’. These are claims against assets by someone other than the owner. This is a reflection of what the company owes. Notes payable, taxes payable and loans are liabilities.

EQUITY: Equity includes funds that have been supplied to the company to get the ‘stuff’. Equity also reflects ownership of the assets earned through profitability. Equity shows ownership of the assets or claims against the assets, a reflection of what the company owns.

As a business owner, Job One is to protect the assets. Job Two is to grow the assets. There are only three ways to grow assets.

#1 – Borrow Money.

You could borrow money…assets go up and a Note Payable (a liability) goes up.

#2 – Invest Money in the Company.

When you (or another owner/investor) puts money in the company…assets go up and Paid In Capital, an equity account) goes up.

#3 – Create a Profit

When you sell stuff for more than it costs, you’ll create a profit. Net Profit is reflected in the equity section of the Balance Sheet. If Net Profit (an equity account) goes up, assets go up, too. This is really the best way to increase assets, to create wealth. Sure you have to pay taxes on your profits, but that’s the price you pay to live and work in this fine country. Sometimes investing money in a company can buy time, or equipment, that will help build the profitability of the company.

The Balance Sheet is an elegant demonstration of a universal law: for every action there is a reaction. Energy isn’t lost…it changes form. Isn’t this beautiful? Isn’t this fun?

Katharine: It is! I get it. Let’s make some money and make a positive impact on the world!

I like to imagine the conversation between Warren and Katharine this way. Warren Buffet loves business and capitalism and his enthusiasm is contagious. You can manufacture money out of nothing by creating something other people value. You can take a struggling company and fix it. It’s a beautiful thing.

If you are scratching your head right now, it could be that you don’t get the Balance Sheet. Or maybe your Balance Sheet isn’t quite so elegant at the moment. Too much liability? Too little in assets? Let’s do a little sleuthing and discover what the Balance Sheet has to share. It’s helpful to know the Score in the game of business. You can always make it better.

Next up! how to fix a balance sheet - reduce your debt, increase cash flow...make more money!

Need more help...here's a freebie - Business Plan Tips. My top 10 tips for creating a simple business plan. Rock on!

Biz Planning is not Dieting...

2010-10-27T09:16:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Ugh...dieting. No one wants to diet. Even the word has the word DIE in it! Dieting means deprevation, starvation and no fun.

Do you think of Biz Planning that way? "Oh, I HAVE to get a business plan together. Ugh."

Instead of dieting, consider eating well and thoughtfully and joyously. You'll probably lighten up in body and soul.

Instead of business planning, consider it dreaming and manifesting. Biz Planning helps you clarify what it is that you really want. Then, you can map out a simple course of action that will move you in the general direction. Not because getting THERE will make you happy. Just because the game of setting sight on a dream and moving towards it in joy is a very fine game to play.

Lighten up. Engage Biz Planning because it's fun to dream and realize your dream.

TIP: Forget the dry as plain toast business plan templates you'll find all over the internet. Spend an hour a day for six weeks crafting your Biz Plan. From there...spend as much time as you like bringing it to reality.

Wishing you all the freedom you are looking for in your own extraordinary business!

xo$, Ellen

You get to decide how much is enough...

2010-09-29T20:14:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

It seems odd that so many people get their underwear in a bunch about proposed tax increases for the top 2% of all US Citizens. Hmmm. I suppose there is this idea that at some point we could all be part of that 2%. Aside from the problematic math, the core issue is...

When is enough enough? Who decides? If you were to think about what you really really want, you may not want a multi-billion $ net worth. That would be an awesome responsibility. What is enough for you? Maybe you are closer than you have given yourself credit for.

I was visiting with a business owner yesterday. She has created a rockin' online retail business. She sells jewelry and mementos, for people to remember those they have loved who have died. She provides love and care and compassion along with her orders. Her business is solidly profitable and she is taking home a six figure salary. Working from home, she can work and be a hands-on mom to her four kids.

"What can I do for you?" I asked. "You seem to have a great life going on!"

"Well," she replied, "I met with a business expert recently. She told me that I am not coming close to the potential of the business. She said I should build it NOW and create some real wealth. I'm wondering if I am, um, a slacker? Because I don't feel compelled to do that?"

Must success be defined in superlatives? Can you create a life, a business, and income that's good enough? Yep. You get to decide. You get to define your own success.

I applaud Jon Stewart's slogan for his Rally to Restore Sanity. Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican or something else all together...Tone it down a notch, America!

xo$, Ellen

PS I did suggest that my new business building pal consider putting a Biz Plan together. It's a nice way to clarify what you want and help you get it. Life and business success by your own yardstick.

It's easier going the other way...

2010-09-14T10:40:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

You go to the local meet-and-greet of business owners. Everyone is complaining about how hard business is because of...

* the economy
* a family member __________ (name)
* cheap customers
* rotten employees

Sigh. Let them run against the wind. What if you turned around and went the other way. Just because if what they are doing is so hard, the other way might be easier. More profitable. So often, it is.

Vibram Five Fingered "shoes" is rocking the running shoe industry by going the opposite direction of Nike and Reebok and New Balance. These guys are imagining that running would be better without shoes at all...so they have created an "anti-shoe." It's different and I think they have it right.

So, take a clue from other business owners. Don't do what they do. Turn around and go with the flow. It's easier and you just might make some money.

xo$, Ellen

BTW...our "business as unusual" marketing program starts on 9.28.2010. Special pricing through 9.21.2010. Discover how to less (yet differently) and get lots more calls NOW.

College ain't all it's cracked up to be...

2010-09-01T12:55:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Ah, the springtime high school grads are off and running. To college or to new jobs. Time to flex those wings, dear ones, and fly in the direction of what you want.

Remember that...

* College is great...but a college degree is NO indication of future success.
* Your current job is but a transition...to the next job or business.
* Success is being, doing and having whatever you want.
* Your success is yours to have...or neglect to have.

I love young people (regardless of their age.) I love hanging around people who make things happen and step boldly in the direction of their dreams. As David Morelli says, "Everything is energy and energy is contagious." As the world turns and the seasons shift, it's a good time to assess our lives and reconnect with what we really want. Marla, one of my bffs, chose to move to Singapore this August. Time from decision to move? 3 months. Neat! Way to stay young, Miss M! Another bff, Larry, chose to ditch new construction - cold turkey - and reinvent his service and replacement business. Atta boy, Larry!

And, the photo above is the high school picture of another one of my bffs. This fellow is creating yet another business empire...the latest in a string of successful career adventures. All the best to you! (And a free book to whoever recognizes this business icon and sends me an email with his name!) HINT: He has since ditched the mullet.

Here's to new beginnings!

xo$, Ellen

PS...the Velvet Rope comes down on 9.8.2010... Get More Calls NOW!

Lips, ships...and Christina Norman of OWN...

2010-08-21T13:56:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Flying home from a FAB family vacation, I was seated next to my adorable nephew, Jackson. He tuned to me to share a video game moment and came eyeball close to my mouth.

"What happened to your lips," he gasped. "It looks like they have little cuts on them. Deep cuts, all around them!"

Humiliated, I replied, "Jack, honey, those are just wrinkles."

"No," he countered, certain I was unaware of the severity of the situation, "They look like they are bleeding!"

"Nope. That's just my lipstick."

Sigh. Nothing like an 8 year old to remind you how old you are. And, today is my birthday. How fast it goes to travel the sun! I am a year older...and a bit more wrinkled. A birthday is a great time to assess your life.

Here's what I know for sure: No sense worrying about missing a ship of opportunity. There is always another ship. We are just the right age for whatever we want...right now.

I recently read a story in Vogue magazine about Christina Norman, the CEO of Oprah's OWN network. She interviewed for the job while she was CEO of the MTV network. Burned out, struggling with a cold, Christina pretty much blew the interview. Oprah was underwhelemed and Christina didn't pursue the job.

Christina quit MTV. She was fried and ready to NOT be the most important person in the company for a bit. She connected with her family, relaxed...and caught her breath. When a friend called and alerted her that Oprah was considering someone else to lead OWN, she realized, "Hey...I WANT that job!" And she got it. When the ship of opportunity sails, don't panic. There will be another one. And another one.

OWN kicks off 1.1.2011. Congratulations to Christina and Oprah and the OWN team. BTW, if you need some help teaching business basics, I am ready to jump on that ship! I'm the perfect age for it.

xo$, Ellen

PS. Get More Calls Now Teleseminar series kicks off in September. Here's the Velvet Rope page...line up to get the information - and the BEST price - now!

Facebook | Ellen Rohr

2010-08-16T13:22:00.000-05:00

Facebook Ellen Rohr

When the tide turns...

2010-07-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

I just put a training schedule for a half marathon on my calendar. It helps me actually GO running instead of talk about running when I am training for an event.

I know this for sure: There comes a point in the training where it gets easier. If I have been slacking off, the first couple of weeks are...painful! Then, I get past that. As I run, I notice that a mile or two has gone by while I have been daydreaming or enjoying the weather. There is this moment - usually unremarkable - when you realize, the tide has turned. You are fitter than you were before. You got...better! It's a great feeling.

And it will happen in your business if you just stay the course. Get clear on what your WANT. Stick to your training. Distract yourself and notice lovely little things that are going right all around you. Then, like my friend Ed shared with me yesterday, you'll notice that the tide has turned. Ed told me...

"Lisa is the new bookkeeper. She told me that she loves working here because there are none of the usual job politics or backstabbing that she has so often experienced in office work. Wow. A couple of years ago, you could cut the drama in the office with a knife. Then, I got tired of it. I refused to participate. I changed my approach and established systems. The tide has turned."

And it feels great!

Send me a video! Tell me what you hate about your business. I'll help you fix it. Easy. Are you ready to get...better? Post it on my fan page.

xo$, Ellen

"Fix My Biz" - Got a Biz Challenge? Let's FIX it!

2010-07-20T22:14:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

I LOVED the OWN network contest for Oprah's next TV star. (Still waiting on the announcement...fingers crossed!) I was inspired to put my own TV show together. "Fix My Biz!" Here's the concept...

Send me a video describing your Biz challenge. I'll post it...and share sure-fire advice for solving the problem or helping you lasso the opportunity. That's the idea: Businesses FIXED here.

Send me your video...and I will pick one video challenge per month. I'll post my response video and call you out to get the FIX...IN. If I don't know how, I will find out for you. No problem too great. It's all a matter of getting clear on what you want...and taking inspired action in the direction of your dreams. If you are stuck, you could get unstuck. If you really want to and if you are willing to think new thoughts and take right action. Are you ready?

Your own business can be a path to peace, prosperity and FREEDOM! Need a little help? Let's fix it!

Are you willing to do what you can do? Are you ready to deal with the issues that stand in the way?

Me, too.

xo$, Ellen

PS...Put your "Fix My Biz" video together. In it, tell me your business challenge. What's the problem? What's the opportunity? Be specific! Have some fun...and upload it to my Facebook Fan Page or send to contact@barebonesbiz.com Go go go!

Latest, greatest...and FREE!

2010-07-14T08:58:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

We have sold over 60,000 books at http://www.barebonesbiz.com/ !! Wow! And, we offer a free pdf copy of our best seller - Where Did the Money Go? - Accounting Basics for the Business Owner Who Wants to Get Profitable! - on our website. Yep, free. We want to expand business literacy and help folks make more money NOW. Across the globe. We are all about expanding freedom through winning business.

We just updated this terrific book. Took out a bunch of typos. Made the words and illustrations clearer. And, added some fantastic bonus material. So...here you go! Download, share with friends, family, team members (even in-need-of-a-clue business competitors!)

Here's to discovering the freedom in your own business!

Click here...fill in your name and email address...and the e-book is yours!

xo$, Ellen

A show, a business, a life of our OWN...

2010-07-01T23:19:00.003-05:00

Greetings!

We have had a blast promoting my audition for Oprah's new network...OWN. Yeehaw! Click here to see my audition video - 3 entertaining and inspiring minutes. And, if you would like to vote, go for it! Thanks! Voting ends Saturday...and I am soooo grateful for the love and support by way of votes, hilarious email messages and lovely comments on the site. You rock!!

Thanks, Ms. Oprah! You inspire me! You represent for me and your audience as you visit with interesting, provacative and helpful people...sharing your access and reach. You travel with us on your life journey. What an honor! And thanks for the Your OWN Show contest! Such a great opportunity! (And what entertaining TV it will be!)

Thanks, Mark Burnett! I just read his book JUMP IN! Even if you don't know how to swim. What a great life...and fab special forces-to-Hollywood "manny"-to extreme adventurer-to Reality Show King story! You are fun! And ultra-inspiring. Gonna start training for a steeplechase today. Woohoooo!

xo$, Ellen

PS...Did you miss my radio show with Bo Burlingham? You can listen to the recording. Bo LOVES business, and as editor at large at Inc. Magazine, he shares stories of businesses with MOJO. What charisma is to a person, mojo is to a business. Does yours have it? Check it out!

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/barebonesbiz Thanks, Bo!! You are AWESOME! xo$ Ellen

How sexy are obsolete electronic components?

2010-06-09T00:55:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

My friend, Dawn Gluskin, has a decidely un-sexy business. She finds and sells obsolete, long lead time and hard to find electronic components. She found a need and went about filling it, in a simple, no nonsense way.

2010 marks her second year in business. She just passed the $1Million in Sales YTD mark...profitably and with no long term debt. She has options.

How sexy is that? Pretty sexy. http://www.soltecelectronics.com/

Join us today in our Make Mine a $Million Business Webinar!! We'll talk with Dawn about financials...and success!

I am celebrating businesses of all shapes and sizes! Inspiring, fragile, fixable businesses. And, wouldn't that make for cool reality TV? Please VOTE for me on Oprah's search for the next host of her OWN show! Thanks!

xo$, Ellen

"You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however." ~Richard Bach

What if you couldn't make an excuse?

2010-05-12T09:43:00.001-05:00

Greetings!
You have all the time there is. You have all the smarts you need. You live in a world of opportunity. Everything else you tell yourself...is just an excuse.

Yesterday, I was visiting with Rochelle Togo-Figa. She said her life really took off...when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She threw off her excuses and decided to make the most of her life and opportunities. She conciously decided to improve her thoughts and challenge her beliefs. One of her daily practices: She turned OFF the news and listened to powerful, positive, inspirational messages. (We are going to visit today...join in our Teleseminar!)

Hear, hear! You have plenty of time to do what needs to be done. You've got to be willing to stop doing things that don't help you live your fullest life. Turn off the news. Once upon a time, people went weeks without hearing news, and therefore stopped everthing when the messenger arrived, or the pigeon came home. Now, we are trained to give our full attention to every change in the headlines. Choose to be less informed. I promise, you will get wind of the big news. Do you have to be the first to know? Could you discipline yourself to get only news you need to live your life well...on a weekly basis? What if you ignored all warnings this week? (Except, perhaps, tornado sirens?)

Think of the time you will uncover!

Think of the excuses - the economy, the government, the weather - you could toss aside.

For more inspiration, check out Wayne Dyer's latest CD program. Turn off the radio and plug in this book.

xo$, Ellen

"Inside...I am a cheetah!"

2010-04-29T14:02:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

My business associate Randy MacKenzie is building a commercial cleaning business.

Lately, his knees have been bothering him. He shrugs off any suggestions to slow down, "Yeah, my body may be wearing out a bit, but inside...I am a cheetah."

His energy and enthusiasm inspire me! And the guys he employees. He is building a team of fellows who have been incarcerated. He believes in them and expects a lot. He rewards their efforts by doing everything he can so that they succeed. Randy is building his business to help others start their own...and increase their freedom and power. So cool!

He makes sales by going door to door...pressing the flesh. He makes sales the old fashioned way. He builds relationships, friendships. It works because he is willing to do what so many others won't do. He risk rejection. He is OK with getting, "No." As a result, he gets a LOT of, "Yes!" I help Randy and his team with their business planning and accounting. What a joy to work with them!

Another no-excuses business builder: Brian Scudamore of 1-800-Got-Junk! I visited with Brian on our radio show. Take a listen! His team dons blue afro wigs and stand on busy street corners waving 1-800-Got-Junk signs. They do whatever it takes to get the phone ringing.

How about you?

I love helping people build businesses:. Put a winning Biz Plan together. Get a handle on the money. Enjoy the Freedom. What makes me nuts? Excuses.

Let your inner cheetah run wild!

xo$, Ellen

How about YOU as a Reality TV Star?

2010-04-19T23:00:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Once upon a time there was Real World on MTV. Then, CBS and ABC jumped on the bandwagon with Survivor and The Bachelor. At the same time, FOX entered the Reality TV world with Bachelorette: Alaska. Sheila Conlin was called on to help FOX navigate the Reality TV waters. How do you cast these shows? What do you do about liability and contracts and pre-launch secrecy? Sheila figured it out...and has become THE go-to expert on reality television. She recently spent an hour on the air with Dr. Phil after the "balloon boy" fiasco. Why would anyone want to be on reality shows?

Why indeed! It could be a way to quantum leap your business to the next level. It could be a platform from which you can share your message to millions of people. Have you watched Undercover Boss or the Celebrity Apprentice? Is the publicity a good move for these companies and their owners? Is there a Reality TV Star...in YOU?

Sheila and I are going to chat it up! Join us Tuesday, 3 pm central time, on my BlogTalkRadio Show. Here's the link...and the details!

Lights, camera...ACTION!

xo$, Ellen

2010-04-14T11:18:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

When I heard Simon speak, I thought, "That is my newest best friend forever!" He's the author of "Start with Why - how great leaders inspire everyone to take action." He asks, "Why are you in business?" and then shuts up so you can stew in the question.

Why, indeed! Simon ROCKS.

Lisa Carter and I are also BFFs. And we heard Simon was going to Indianapolis on April 22nd. So, Lisa invited her bff LuAnn...and we organized a little powwow, a get-together to ask, "WHY?" with a few business owners and see what we come up with.

Are you in Indy and interested in a moment of big thinking and high purpose? Want to join us? Let me know... Click here for the e-vite!

xo$, Ellen

Here's the e-vite!

Three words to close...

2010-03-31T07:45:00.005-05:00

Greetings!

I was supposed to be on-stage to do a presentation in two hours. I opened my suitcase and - gasp - realized I had left my snazzy outfit hanging on my closet door back home. Yikes! Then, a miracle happened. I looked out of my hotel window...and right across the street was a Saks Fifth Avenue. I ran over to the store. Like mother looking for a lost child, I pounced on the first salesperson within arms reach.

"Hi! I'm Ellen. Could you please help me buy a nice business dress? I have to be out of here, purchase in hand, in 20 minutes."

"Hi, Ellen. I'm Doris. You get in that dressing room and I will make this happen."

Doris threw 3 choices over the dressing room door. On the third try, I walked out in a smart, flattering, shirt dress. Very hip and absolutely appropriate for the crowd I was addressing. 5 minutes left to wrap up the paperwork.

"Thanks, Doris. This is perfect! I can wear it right out of the store and make it to the presentation in good time. How much?"

"$300."

"$300?...really?" I was pretty sure I could get something similarly darling at T.J. Max for $39.

Doris replied, "Bubula. It's Saks."

I bought the dress.

Today, work on your 3 word closing line. Your customers should pay more to work with you. Are you better, faster, nicer, cleaner, kinder, more experienced, more professional, more reliable? I bet you are. Don't apologize for that. State the obvious.

"Bubula. It's Saks."

xo$, Ellen

PS... I love the dress! I've worn in a half dozen times already to rave compliments.

PPS...Success habits are about doing less and achieving more. Check out our Step by Step program.

80+ products for eyebrows...

2010-03-17T17:56:00.011-05:00

Greetings!

Anastasia Soare is an eyebrow expert. She is THE go to professional for Oprah, Penelope Cruz, Jo Lo, Paula Patton and loads of other celebs. As they readied for the Oscars, Hollywood's Hot List waited in line for Anastasia.

Listen in as Anastasia visits with Ryan Seacrest. Hear that passion? It's about...EYEBROWS! And so much more. It's about putting your best foot forward. It's about art, beauty and commitment to excellence. It's about glamour! And she has created an amazing business. She's even developed a huge clientele of men who are proud to tame their unruly eyebrows! (Who knew?)

Check out http://anastasia.net/ She offers over 80 products...for EYEBROWS.

I'm super proud of my niece, Monique, one of Anastasia's fantastic estheticians. Visit her at Nordstrom in Salt Lake City, Utah and experience her deft touch with a brow brush!

You can make a living doing just about anything if you believe in what you do, infuse it with passion and provide rockin' great service.

xo$, Ellen

PS...have I mentioned our Step by Step program? Why not rethink life and business? Get inspired and take action!

Living a lie?

2010-03-07T11:27:00.006-06:00

Greetings!

Big lie we tell ourselves? We don't have enough time. We do. We have all there is. Now is the only time we have. With a nod to the past and a glance to the future, we can live now and release our attachment to the sand. Now is eternal.

How liberating is that? Quit making excuses. Join us for Get More Calls Now. The intention of the program is to get your phone ringing NOW. The techniques we lay out in the Teleseminar series ALWAYS work...if you do as directed. Why not you and why not NOW? I am super excited about the program. It kicks off 3.16.2010.

If you sign up by midnight on Tuesday 3.9.2010, you save $300. Why not check it out...now?

Live in your truth. Let go of the lies. More truth-telling in my PHC News column...

xo$, Ellen

Get More Calls, Leads, Sales...

2010-03-02T00:54:00.010-06:00

Greetings!

Al Levi and I are offering a rockin' marketing program. We call it Get More Calls NOW. Yep...more calls, more leads...more SALES! This lean, easy-to-implement system always works. 100% of the time.

We love helping you succeed. And we figured we could take out all the objections to you giving this program a swing. So...

Check it out!

Here's to love, peace, money and FREEDOM!

xo$, Ellen

Here's to the heroes!

2010-02-14T16:44:00.006-06:00

Greetings!

Was it really 29 years ago? My college roommate Lisa and I set up our lawn chairs in our dorm room, inches away from our 13 inch television. There we sat for the duration of the 1981 Winter Games. Classes were missed, meals skipped, homework forgotten...life stood still while we watched and wept. Do you believe in miracles? I do!

I am totally energized by the 2010 Winter Olympics. I'm inspired as the athletes compete, peacefully, with each other. These are our champions, our heroes. What they are capable of, we are capable of appreciating.

Notice the paradox, again and again: The one who moves most easily, moves fastest. Stay in balance and use less energy. Maximize the effort to effect ratio. (Sigh! It's just like good business! The universal truths emerge.)

Praise to those who pursue perfection! Those who intend to be faster, stronger, smarter, higher...more beautiful, more powerful. Even in defeat, there is honor in the attempt.

Enough with war. Long live the games.

xo$, Ellen

Matter of perspective...

2010-02-04T21:37:00.003-06:00

Greetings!

What if you got out of the office and went to the front lines. Got in the truck. Put on the coffee. Picked up the garbage. What would you learn about your company and yourself?

It's a matter of perspective. I already love this new show on CBS Sundays...

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/undercover_boss/

BTW...humble and AMAZING CEO Jack Stack asked me about open book management. What a thrill...and a thought-provoking blog. Check it out...

http://boss.blogs.nytimes.com/

And...Trish, Todd and I soaked up Sundance with a gaggle of pals. Independent movies are best when perspective rattling. We saw The Mormom Proposition, The Freebie...and Dry Land in one mega day.

http://sundance.org/

One more thing...in an attempt to underwhelm you to greatness we created the Step by Step program.

http://www.stepbystepbusinessbuilding.com

"If in the last few years you hadn't discarded a major opinion or acquired a new one, check your pulse. You may be dead." ~Gelett Burgess

xo$, Ellen

Everything you want, you want because...

2010-01-27T16:56:00.006-06:00

Greetings!

One of my biz gurus says, "Everything you want, you want because you believe that having it will make you feel better. What if you just prioritized feeling better now, every moment, every day?"

What if we if we basked in our victories every day, no matter how large or small? I just got back from the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. I love movies and I love seeing movie stars! Even better, I love sharing moments of triumph (life!) as unknown filmakers unveil their creative works. The picture above is from Dry Land, one of this year's most talked about films.

I went to the premier and fell in love with the young writer/director, Ryan Piers Williams. He is about our son's age. His parents were in the audience. What an amazing moment for them all, as he introduced his film and shared behind the scenes details about making it. By James Cameron and Avatar standards, this movie is a just a wisp of a thing. But the life, the moment...ahhh, that's the point. This movie is a result of a dream and inspired action. Ryan cried as he introduced his family and their applause was thunderous. Life...ah, that's the stuff.

Our Step by Step program is about being successful. Successful every day, measured by your own yardstick.

Here's to life and happiness now...

xo$, Ellen

Down with Tolerance...

2010-01-07T08:34:00.005-06:00

Greetings!

It isn't ok to just tolerate people. Instead, we could accept, allow, include and celebrate everyone...regardless of skin color, language, sex, sexuality and religious belief.

What we shouldn't tolerate? Bullying. It's where the seeds of hate are born. When we tolerate bullying (from exclusion to verbal barbs to outright violence) we are complicit in that hatred.

I got an email recently...

"...As promised, I told you I would stay in contact about trying to get more women and minorities in the plumbing trade. Well, highschool is the motherlode of all of it. This upcoming year, my hopes are to bring more trade opportunities for everyone into the classroom. Unfortunately, there was only one girl in my class and she pulled out because her classmates harassed her when she was doing practical plumbing exercises on the school plumbing systems. This was before I got to them and needless to say, I was pretty bummed out. Funny thing is these kids who had a hard time having a girl in the class now have a women teaching them. Ahhhh, how the world does funny things."

Bullying is wrong. In this instance it's at a point where it might be easy to snuff it out. We could tranform situations, by not tolerating bullying...when the hate is just a seedling. And, by offering acceptance...and celebration of diversity.

(Thanks, Jennifer. And keep me posted of your successes! )

xo$,

Ellen

Yep...it is launched and go go going and the Step by Step program is AWESOME. Check it out! http://www.stepbystepbusinessbuilding.com/ Try for $1

Appreciation vs. Gratitude....

2009-12-28T07:23:00.002-06:00

Greetings!

How ever you celebrate this time of year...I applaud you! Gratitude is being thankful. A nice state of being. Appreciation is when you are in the moment and full of joy. Feeling wonderful, waves of goosebumps, having fun, moved to tears...in JOY. That's worth pursuing. Or allowing to come your way.

Simple moments inspire appreciation...like playing Scategories with the family, updates from friends with pictures of their so-big kids, running for a good cause on a too-cold day. Here's to appreciating what we are, do and have!

xo$, Ellen

PS... Step by Step Office Hours are TODAY...Join in?

New thoughts, new choices...more money.

2009-12-13T07:51:00.007-06:00

Greetings!

While there is plenty of room on this petbed, I had never seen either Garfield the Cat or Lucky Dog share it before. There was always some territorial hissing and growling until somebody gave it up. So, perhaps it was that the shop was cold, or the hour was late...whatever, both of them decided to try a new approach. It looks warmer than one of them on the shop floor.

What will it take for you to try a new approach? Perhaps a belief that it may be worth trying? I talked to a fellow yesterday (not for long) who told me reason after reason why he was unsuccessful.

"Duly noted!" I replied. "Now what?"

"That's why I am calling you. If I don't start bringing home some money, I am going to lose this business and my wife will probably leave me," he challenged.

"Got it! I have lots of ideas. How about this one... spend 15 minutes every day thinking about what you really want. Not about what you don't want."

"I don't have time for that. And I don't see how that would work. What else have you got. "

Hmmmm. One of us is going to be out of this conversation. He did make a reach, and I like to help. However, if you keep doing what you're doing what you've got it what you'll get. It takes a new set of beliefs, a new way of thinking and inspired, aligned action to get different results. And, it's warmer on the bed than on the cold floor by yourself.

Join me for the Step by Step program. Bring yourself to the party and an open mind.

xo$, Ellen

Kooky, family business...

2009-12-01T14:29:00.003-06:00

Greetings!

Do you work with your family? YIKES! Kooky, isn't it? You might be tempted to bring all the wierd family baggage to work with you every day. A word of advice (from a woman who sold her business so that I didn't have to work with my husband anymore):

Treat family members like strangers. Treat strangers like you would if you started over in a functional family. Build a Biz Plan together. Learn Success Habits...step by step. Hold each other accountable...and build a rockin' business. The worst businesses I know are family businesses. However, the BEST businesses I know are family businesses.

xo$, Ellen

Cora, Sun Records and the Power of Passion

2009-11-09T18:51:00.004-06:00

Greetings!

I have always wanted to be able to say, "I've been to Graceland." Cathy, Courtney, Maureen (my bffs) and I can now say that. We listened to an audio tour of the home as we wandered through room after room of shag carpet and 70's kistch. It was interesting, yet somewhat sad and exhausting.

On the way back to the hotel, our shuttle stopped at Sun Records. At this point, the four of us were ready for more comfortable shoes and a plate of BBQ. Our shuttle driver nudged us off the bus and said, "I promise you will enjoy this." We shuffled in, bought our tickets and fingered the overpriced Sun Records merchandise while waiting for the tour to begin.

In walked Cora. She looks like a rocker chick - deconstructed tshirt, blond hair, jeans and rough-rider boots. She trained as a classical pianist for 18 years. And you could feel it...she digs music and musicians. She shared the oral tradition of Sun Records, a powerful vortex of rock 'n' roll history. She punctuated her stories with perfect tidbits of music, "Hear that piano...that's Ike Turner!" "Did you know Carl Perkins' rendition of Blue Sued Shoes out-charted Elvis' version?" Cora demonstrated how Johnny Cash used a dollar bill wrapped around the neck of the guitar to simulate a drum sound when no drums were available in the studio. "By the way, I also accept tips," she added as she unwrapped the bill.

It was the power of her passion that moved us, energized us. I was moved to tears and laughed out loud. I got goosebumps as she listed about 101 artists who had recorded at Sun Records. Bono! Beck! Mick! We listened to a rare recording of Elvis jamming with Roy Orbison and Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee. Goodness gracious!

If you are going to do something...go all out. Play from your heart and pull from your passion. Cara, hats off to you, girlfriend.

The King would be pleased.

If you are ready to tap into your passion, you may be ready for the Step by Step Success program. Al Levi and I will be chatting it up on BlogTalk Radio Tuesday, Nov. 10th at 3 pm central time. Doing what you LOVE makes making money so much easier.

xo$, Ellen

TMB - Phc News - Features: October 2009: The Turnaround

2009-10-24T16:52:00.001-05:00

TMB - Phc News - Features: October 2009: The Turnaround

Meet Chris...and consider the promise of a second chance. xo$, Ellen

If you manifest a dog...

2009-10-04T15:23:00.016-05:00

Greetings!

Intention plus inspired action = creation. If you want a dog, you could draw a dog into your life.

Then, you have to care for the dog.

At Bare Bones Biz, we share simple ways to care for your manifesting biz empire. What do you want? Get clear...and take aligned action. Create! Then, care for it. Help it grow. Have fun with it!

If you want a healthy business, there are things to DO. Solve problems. Keep track of the money. Stay in compliance with Uncle Sam. Engage a winning team. Make sales that sit well. Deliver as promised. This is fun stuff.

Our Step by Step business building program is the simplest way to care for, feed and grow an extraordinary business. The power is in a single focused step...and one month to get it IN. Bring whatever you have manifested, whatever you want to create)to the program. It starts November 16th. And you can test drive it for $1.

Maximum effect from minimal effort.

Pepper is good at this. She'll be 16 soon and has gotten whatever she wanted without working very hard. I just have to take care of her. If you manifest a dog...you'll learn a lot about business...and life.

xo$, Ellen

Help vs. hammer...

2009-09-22T07:50:00.003-05:00

Greetings!

When I first took the "medicine" from my mentor Frank Blau, I became "born again" in the light of business basics! I wanted to tell everyone...how to read a balance sheet, how to create a real selling price...how to make money!

Not everyone wanted to hear it. I put off a lot of people.

Today, at 3 pm central time, we are going to talk about affiliate programs. I'll visit with Mary Kay Morgan about how to use affiliate programs to turn people on to great products and services without having them run from you with fear at the next family function.

See you there!!

xo$, Ellen

A Return to Freedom...

2009-09-06T11:28:00.007-05:00

Greetings!

Robert is a student in Randy Mackenzie’s Commercial Cleaning Class at Davis Correctional, Holdenville, OK. Randy teaches cleaning skills…and so much more. I visit his class every 6 weeks to work on business planning with the students.

Robert sits in the front row. He has never missed a class…and that takes some doing given the restraints of incarcerated life. He is always impeccably groomed and dressed. He participates in every activity and is super supportive of his fellow students. He skips lunch so that we can review his business plan together. And, what a Biz Plan he has! Reasonable, financially sound…and inspiring! He has a Biz Plan for a landscaping company that could deliver positive cash flow from day one. He has a written set of standards, including regular drug testing. Focused…and absolutely achievable.

He is fired up, excited and ready to go. He intends to establish a safe, drug free company...a prosperous opportunity for those who want to improve their lives. He intends to make a great life for himself and his family, and his community.

He is up for parole this month.

Now...would you hire him or use his company if you knew he had a felony record?

You know, I have visited lots of contracting companies, much like the one in Robert's Biz Plan. Most of them don't drug test. Many of them send people who regularly use drugs to your home or place of business. Interesting.

Here's to second chances.

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen xo$

A little faith, a nod to science...

2009-08-25T19:46:00.009-05:00

Greetings!

I believe! I believe in the transformative power of forgiveness. I believe in the basic goodness of people. I believe in miracles and the scientific process.

I believe in business. I believe your own winning business is a way to expand peace, prosperity and freedom across the planet. I love free trade...you have something I need or want. I have something you need or want. Let's work it out...peacefully. That's good business and that inspires me.

I believe in the power of a smile. And the healing effect of laughter. I believe it is just fine if you don't believe as I do. I believe in diversity and creativity. I believe in being of service. I believe in doing things because they feel good. I believe in cultivating joy and happiness. I believe in love love love. I believe in family...and that I won the lottery with mine.

What do you believe? What would you go to the wall for?

xo$, Ellen

To tattoo or notattoo....

2009-08-14T18:18:00.010-05:00

Greetings!

You might not want to tattoo...but what do you feel so strongly about that you would etch it on your body in ink? Find out and step on the path to joy and freedom.

xo$, Ellen

PS...we can help you find your passion and make a great living doing what you love. Shauna has an idea for making it uber-easy to work with us. Reach us at contact@barebonesbiz.com

http://barebonesbiz.com/

Err in the direction of fun...

2009-08-06T05:38:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

I love Mike's DO SOMETHING RIGHT NOW approach to bizness. Why not? If you make a mistake, you will learn something. If you err in the direction of fun...you'll have fun. I am old enough to know this for sure: what seems like the worst thing is often the BEST THING THAT EVER happened to you.

And, as the wife of a Plumber, I applaud his use of TP...as metaphor!

Check out the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur.

Take action TODAY (he's got me SHOUTING!) for the sheer risk, thrill, joy of it!

xo$, Ellen

Getting through da noise...cont.

2009-07-23T15:56:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

What's worth sharing?

Something clever. Something inspiring. Something that makes you reconsider basic assumptions.

http://producten.hema.nl/

xo$, Ellen

Twitter like you mean it. JahFurry knows...

2009-07-23T10:49:00.004-05:00

...the how and low down.

Greetings!

Did you miss my Telseminar with Jeff Newelt? Listen up. JahFurry is worth listening to...and learning from. How to tweet, facebook, blog, connect...in potent, spreadable, authentic ways.

Click Here to Listen

or

"Rip open your chest and let 'em see your heart." ~Dale Carnegie

xo$, Ellen

A signal through the noise...

2009-07-20T07:30:00.004-05:00

Greetings!

OK, we are trying to use this Blog, Facebook, twitter, Linked In stuff to some kind of helpful outcome. We are trying to reach out and communicate in a worthwhile way. Alas. So much of this is just...crap.

What to do? What not to do? Jeff Newelt knows. This guy connects people. He conveys thoughtful, useful, inspiring, passion-stirring information. He knows the tools and the "rules" and he is my guest tomorrow on our free, interactive, live Teleseminar.

Join us! Tuesday, July 21st, at 3 pm central time. Click here...

http://www.barebonesbiz.com/teleconference_series.html

Jeff - aka JahFurry - wears many furry hats. He is a social media / PR consultant for prominent authors, musicians, graphic novelists, non-profits and new media stars, including Doug Rushkoff, Count Me In, Harvey Pekar (American Splendor), DKNY Jeans, DJ Spooky, etc. He is also the Comics Editor of both SMITH & HEEB magazines, as well as "Minister of Hype" for online comics collective ACT-I-VATE, And he just oooozes cool.

Be there! Let's figure this out.

Love, peace, $$, freedom!

xo$, Ellen

Il dolce far niente...

2009-07-14T13:25:00.005-05:00

Greetings!

Mio figlio took this picture...look closely and see me, my sisters Tae and Lynn between the shrubs, part of the garden. Max lives in Italy now...has made big steps in speaking the langue and living like a local. He showed us around and made us so proud. Again.

The Italians have a lot to teach us about living. Slow down and enjoy. I read that the national religion is "Il dolce far niente." The sweetness of doing nothing. My favorite meal was at La Capuccina, served by Gianluca...a master of the slow food movement. Hours of laughter and amazing food.

The paradox hits me again...plan, and be flexible. Set goals, and be delighted with the current moment. The moment matters.

xo$, Ellen

PS Five years ago, Gianluca pitched a corporate career and started his agriturismo venture with his wife and three daughters. To follow your dreams and make money doing it...nice!

AA rules: Take what you need...

2009-06-24T22:23:00.007-05:00

Greetings!

In Gran Torino, ne plus ultra tough guy Clint Eastwood mentors a slump-shouldered teenager on what it means to be a man. He shows him about how men talk to each other. Have you seen the movie? I won't spoil it. I will share that his advice is...NOT politically sensitive. It is, however, what Clint's character Walt has to share. It is what has worked for him to mixed success.

That's how it goes with mentors. Tom Pace says, "Mentoring relationships are voluntary." You choose to share advice as a mentor, from your authentic experience. As a mentee, you choose to take it or dismiss it. You can choose to act on it...or, sometimes, your mentor demonstrates behaviors that encourage you to do just the opposite.

It's good to have a few mentors...because they may be just brilliant at different areas of life. I wouldn't consult Larry King about marriage advice. However, he would be the go-to guy for "How do I build a powerful network?" Allow your mentors to be imperfect.

Here's what I know...how to craft an inspired Business Plan and put it into action. How to start, fix and grow your business. And, the best of what I know is in The Complete Suite.

Do not ask me, "How do you cook a delicious meal of any kind?"

xo$, Ellen

To all that's to come...YES!

2009-05-27T12:44:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

I filled out a survey yesterday and one of the questions was, "What is your greatest disappointment?" I just couldn't think of anything. How nice! Today, adopt a sense of humor and of the absurd and consider this question...

"What if everything in your life has set you up perfectly for this moment?"

Accept the best of what is in store for you. Just say, "Yes."

xo$ Ellen

http://www.growbiginarecession.com/

The more Post Its...the worse your biz is...

2009-05-13T09:18:00.005-05:00

Greetings!

Did you see that movie, A Beautiful Mind with Russell Crow? Remember that creepy scene...it's of his backyard shed, which is crazy-covered with little bits of paper, spelling out his conspiracy theories?

Does your office look like that? Are there Post Its everywhere? I know this to be true: The more Post Its, the more disorganized you are. And a disorganized business is usually stressfull and unprofitable.

Here's a deceptively powerful tip. Instead of Post Its, start writing down what needs to be written down in a single subject, spiral notebook. Carry this with you all the time. I call this your Master To Do list. Here's a picture of mine. Draw a check box next to each item to break them up on the page, and allow you to cross things off as you complete them. Once a week, refer to your Master To Do list as you map out your Calendar and plan your time. Once a day, cross things off and commit to what needs to be done the next day.

Out with the Post Its. Claim some order. It could be the difference between insanity and...well, did you see the end of the movie?

This is a simple idea. What if you chose to think and act differently? Little steps? Quantum leaps? Why not? I am inspired in my purpose to expand freedom...with action that moves you to your Perfect Life. It can be a simple thing. And it can be as BIG as you allow it to be! (A shout out to my inspiring friends at Everything is Energy!)

Love, love, love...and FREEDOM!

xo$, Ellen

PS Ready for something TOTALLY new? This is my fav "marketing" strategy...

They are going to be released...

2009-04-22T10:33:00.009-05:00

"These fellows are going to be released. We are all better off if they are equiped with life skills and business skills. Some of them will start successful businesses and break the cycle of poverty. Poverty is the root cause of so many problems...and the trouble that leads to incarceration."

That's what my friend Randy Mackenzie answered when I asked him why he does what he does. Mr. Mac teaches a Commercial Cleaning class - and so much more! - at Davis Correctional in Holdenville, OK. Click here to read an article I wrote when I first started participating in Mr. Mac's classes. Gail and I went out there again yesterday and saw AMAZING Biz Plan presentations!! One fellow shared every detail of his plan to spread sunshine with his landscaping company. Another has a rockin' auto repair company planned. He aims to pick up the broken pieces from GM and Chrysler...and build a successful business on that opportunity.

Randy grows hope in his class. He is promoting peace, prosperity and freedom. His love for his students wraps like a blanket around his class. And they love him right back.

Join me in casting a vote for Randy Mackenzie so that he can be recognized as a CNN Hero!!

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/cnn.heroes/index.html

xo$, Ellen

Do people love their dogs too much?

2009-04-17T17:21:00.007-05:00

Greetings!

Meet the Rohr dogs...Pepper, Rocket and Lucky. Do people love their dogs too much? I visited my bffs Lisa and Lisa last weekend. They love their dogs a LOT. We went to a lovely pet accessories store. Did you know that you can spend over $1,000 on a custom-fit, tempur-pedic dog bed? Lisa and Lisa spent a small fortune on Stella's upcoming birthday party favors. Stella the Shih Tzu turned four years old on Monday!

Is that too much?

While we were in the store, we met lots of dogs. Funny how you will talk to the dog before acknowleging the person. "Hey, sweetie, aren't you the best dog!" A little scratch behind the ears. Then, you'll look up at the owner, a kindred spirit who totally gets why you think her dog is so darn cute. Dogs connect us.

It seems that dogs - as messy, loving, stinky, lovable, noisy, loyal and inconvenient as they are - make people more...human.

This week, in The Challenge, we are describing and documenting our Perfect Life. Mine includes lots of land and dogs to trod it with.

You can not love too much.

"When a dog runs at you, whistle for him." Henry David Thoreau

xo$, Ellen

Challenge yourself....

2009-04-14T08:29:00.005-05:00

Greetings!

Challenge yourself to think new thoughts and act in new ways. Challenge yourself to allow all good things to come to you.

Recently, someone asked me how I stay so positive and optimistic. I responded, "Discipline!" I intend it and make choices that help manifest a sunny! disposition. Some folks think I am "Pollyanna" however...I enjoy being me! And life keeps getting better and better.

I am discovering that clarity of intention ("What do I really want to be, do and have?") leads to more focused, inspired action. More fun, more success.

That's what The Challenge is all about. And I am delighted about our new (and returning!) Challengers. Monday was our first call...and we kicked off Week One with the Perfect Life exercise. I asked one of our Challengers, "What would you really really really really like for your salary?" It took him 5 minutes to come up with a number. Now that he has...it is on its way. That's how it works. As Mark Victor Hansen says, "Think it...and ink it." You set the gears in motion for your getting your goals!

Dear Challengers...I applaud you for taking the leap of faith. For trusting that you can create the business...and life...of your dreams.

We'll keep you posted of our successes!

"Neither one of us really thought we would sell many books at this tiny little conference, but hundreds of books later! We are thrilled! We had a $12,000 Sales day! Thanks for all the inspiration, help, support, enthusiasm and genuine interest in our success."

Trish Saccomano and Kathy Bringhurst, KT Educational Enterprises

Love, peace, $$, FREEDOM!

Ellen

Friends for 36 years...

2009-04-02T16:44:00.005-05:00

Greetings!

Look how cute we are! Courtney, Maureen, Cathy and I have been friends since freshman year in high school. I am so pleased that we have maintained our friendship. We love hanging out and make each other laugh. Courtney lives in Utah, Maureen in North Carolina, Cathy in Wisconsin...and I live in Missourah. Our next trip together...Martha's Vineyard in October.

There are a million reasons why we could NOT meet up. And only one reason to get together. For the fun of it.

Courtney will make sure we ditch the "mom jeans" and outfit us in Urban Blues. Cathy will "fire up" my toothbrush and dazzle with her political insights. Maureen will share stories of her over-achieving bilingual kids and I will cringe, having raised my boy on junk food and questionable TV choices.

I can't wait.

In good times, rough times, rolling in the dough, rolling coins...my bare bones advice: Go for the fun.

xo$, Ellen

PS I've been rich and I've been poor. I like rich better. Money buys options. Check out The Challenge.

One and done...how much TRY will you buy?

2009-03-21T19:57:00.009-05:00

Greetings!

I LOVE the NCAA tournament.

It's one and done. You win or go home.

At General Electric, Inc. Jack Welch told his team that they would be #1 or #2 in every market they entered...or they would go home. And he gave them a limited time to do it. One or two quarters sometimes. He fired a LOT of people. However, if you are not winning, why do you stay and play? Go home. Go do something else. Get good or get gone.

Because you have the capacity to be really good at something. If you look inside yourself and ask, "What is that I really want to do in this lifetime? What do I want to excel in? What do I have enough passion for that I can commit to getting good, am able to get good, at doing that."

Ready to find out? Quit living a small life. Join me for The Challenge.

xo$, Ellen

PS I believe that extraordinary business expands peace, prosperity and freedom. That's why we do what we do at http://www.barebonesbiz.com/

Write it down...and act "as if..."

2009-03-16T07:42:00.007-05:00

Greetings!

One of the inmates at Davis Correctional Facility in Holdenville gave me a copy of this book. I read it in a couple of hours. I loved it! It's an easy, inspiring read and it nicely describes what it takes to be mentored and mentor others.

I took up the author's challenge to write down my dreams at http://www.mentorhope.com/ Here are a few items on my list...

Create Golden Handcuffs program with Randy Mackenzie
Help Randy become CNN Hero - nominated 3.2009
Give $1000 Mentor prize to Davis Correctional class
Create library and computer lab for Davis Correctional facility
Build Right At Home Remodeling to $20 mill by 2015
Sell 1 million copies of The Bare Bones Biz Plan
Help the Make Mine a Million crew sign up 1,000,000 racers
Be on Oprah's show with our Golden Handcuffs team
Run half marathon in 2009
Help create successful TV mega biz makeover reality show

Today, I'll act as if this is all on its way...

xo$, Ellen

PS...Tom Pace gives away $1000 per month to one of the entered Dream Lists. Plus $1000 worth of books. Go for it!

PPS...You can use this list in the Goals section of your Biz Plan Binder. Nice and easy business plan building!

My Biz Planning...with AGE...

2009-03-03T22:29:00.003-06:00

Greetings!

Today, Al Levi, Gail Gudell (my sis and controller) and I met for our sixth annual AGE (Al, Gail, El) retreat. We explore our Biz Plans...and we come away with fabulous ideas for making our wildest dreams come true. We break for great food and yoga class. Oh, and we do this at Al and Natalie Levi's lovely home in Phoenix, AZ. Nice!

Annie is their "grand dog." Cute! And the sweetest thing. She's shy, so it takes a gentle approach and just the right coaxing to get her to sit on your lap. Today she reminded me that you don't have to work hard. Just relax and be attractive.

THAT is what is new and improved about my Biz Plan. As Abraham says, "Try less and trust more."

Now is the best time ever for building your business. What other time is there? :)

xo$, Ellen

When asked...have something to SAY...

2009-02-20T17:51:00.004-06:00

Greetings!

On Sunday night I will be GLUED to the TV. It’s Oscar night! I love the gowns and the stars and the celebration of art. Some movies qualify as art. One that makes the grade: Slumdog Millionaire. Like life, this movie is at once deeply disturbing and completely hopeful. The music is intoxicating. The story is compelling. And the actors are believable and absolutely, wonderfully and horribly human. This movie presents the paradox…life is complicated and so simple, funny and heart wrenching…all at the same time. I love the Oscars…especially when there is a movie up for awards that I am rooting for!

What I won’t be watching? The news. Turn it OFF. Quit listening to the doom and gloom. What can YOU do about the economy? You can BUILD your business. You can craft a winning Biz Plan and live it…day by day. You can make Sales and serve customers. You can make money!! THAT is a better use of your time.

And, you can kick back Sunday night and consider: There are people play acting and making gazillions of dollars. There is enough for all! You can make money doing the wonderful things that you do.

Another thing that fascinates me about the Oscars: The acceptance speeches. If you are nominated, you have a shot at winning. I think folks should be prepared. There are hundreds of millions of people watching. Why not have something meaningful to say? If you are asked…be prepared. I challenge you.

Love, peace, $$, FREEDOM,

Ellen

www.barebonesbiz.com

Pondering the Paradox...unemployed vs. self-employed?

2009-02-03T16:54:00.007-06:00

Greetings!

Introducing Bonnie and Brent Brooks. Aren't these two adorable? And they are smart and ambitious. Al Levi and I are delighted to have them as Power Partners in Phoenix, AZ. Our first BIG Sales Goal is $20 million. I am all fired up!

NOW is the BEST time to start and grow a business. If you are in danger of losing your job...and really, how secure is any job?...why not start a business?

You know what the difference between unemployed and self-employed is?

Perspective.

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen xo$

Mountain Climbing 101...

2009-01-30T06:55:00.004-06:00

Greetings!

Chimney Sweep and Bare Bones Biz Challenger Bob Ferrari is all about setting goals and making things happen. Might as well be successful in your business...because it's there.

This is an impressive achievement. Bob had to be in the here-and-now to make this summit. He had to overcome fear, or at least quiet the naysaying voices, to get this far. Sounds like business as usual to me.

Maybe we could consider business as sport. If we did, we may play the game better. Taking chances and accepting that the consequences could be dire, if we choose wrong. And, deciding to choose anyway because the rush of success feels so good.

Here's another look at risk taking. Enjoy!!

xo$, Ellen

PS...The Challenge is ON. Congratulations to our newest group of Biz Builders! Interested? Sign up for our Ezine and we'll keep you in the loop about our next Challenge.

PPS...I dare you. :)

How much is $1,000,000 times...

2009-01-16T20:22:00.006-06:00

...1,000,000?

$1,000,000,000,000.

Greetings!

A trillion. That's what Nell is talking about. I love her! Isn't she adorable? She expands the air in a room. I have a lot of fizz and I feel like I have been sitting on the couch eating Kit Kats when I'm around Nell.

She thinks big and believes that we can change the world, fix the economy and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles by helping millions of women create winning businesses....

Here's Nell's latest blog on Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nell-merlino/rosie-the-riveter-meet-el_b_157969.html

xo$, Ellen
www.barebonesbiz.com

Give me a T...for Team Bare Bones Biz!

2009-01-07T04:54:00.005-06:00

Greetings!

It was a big day for Bare Bones Biz! Our virtual team got together yesterday. Hurray! Gail and Eleanor (Yai Yai) wrapped up 2008 and got ready for Uncle Sam. Shauna is ready to expand our seminar and consulting reach. Michelle is geared up to grow our online services. Jon is making sure that it all works in electronic mode.

We are bound by our mission...to help expand freedom. Now, more than ever, honorable free trade is a powerful way to promote peace, prosperity and freedom across the universe.

I am delighted to get to play with these amazing people. We are here for you and for each other. We are here to serve, to grow, to love. And to have fun. Mostly to have fun. And tease Jon about his Sarah Palin glasses.

"For all that has been, 'Thanks.' For all that will be, 'Yes!" ~Dag Hammarskjold

Love, love, love,

Ellen xo$

Joy and heartbreak...

2009-01-03T14:17:00.004-06:00

Greetings,

Max is a recent grad of the U of Utah. He bleeds crimson and is deeply committed to all things Ute. In 2004, the Utes played in the Fiesta Bowl, capping a rockin' undefeated season. Max, a fellow of few regrets, did inded regret not going to that game.

This year, the Utes rocked it again. New coach, new players...and an even better season. Max took a couple of pals and his cousin Kelly on a road trip. They were at the game last night, the Sugar Bowl at the Superdome. Utah soundly trounced the Crimson Tide. Max and entourage had one of the best times of their young lives.

It was fun to watch the game on TV, knowing they were there, afloat in a sea of red tshirts and facepaint. It was cool to get a 'texted picture', the size of my pinky fingernail, of the field and the crowd, from Max's phone. It was great to feel some of the excitement and joy they were feeling. How cool to see the football player, the fans...just kids have a BLAST. I'm proud of Max for setting his sights on what he wants and making it happen. He is young...and just getting started on his lifetime of adventure.

Joy and heartbreak. It was then that I also learned that Jett Travolta, 16 years young, had died. I've always loved John Travolta. I imagine him living a golden life. Yet, yesterday...today...I imagine him breathing through a crush of heartbreak. Our kids are these wonderful visitors who invite us to share their lives with them...for a little while. The joy and the heartbreak.

Love, love, love,

Ellen

Dreaming of FREEDOM this Holiday Season...

2008-12-27T12:04:00.007-06:00

Greetings!

I LOVE visiting the Commercial Cleaning Class at the Davis Correctional Facility. (This is me, Gail and Max at the gate.) These fellows are the least whiney people I know. They don't care about the economy. They are just focused on getting their chance. Dues paid, time spent...they are anticipating freedom.

"How do you know when to hire your first employee?"

"How important is the company name?"

"How much inventory should you start with?"

Chris and his brother are starting a cleaning business. He can quote every line from The E Myth. He has his Biz Plan carefully crafted. His questions are spot-on great business questions. The young man is poised to win. Can he craft a safe, successful company, for him...for his brother? They have spent much of their lives behind bars. Chris wants to make a different life this time around. Will he make it?

I'm betting on it.

xo$, Ellen

PS What is holding YOU back? Pursue the freedom....

Boy Power and the Make Mine $1Million Race...

2008-12-16T11:13:00.001-06:00

Greetings!

These two fellows have expanded my world. Why do we do what we do? Simon is The WHY Guy (right). And, how do we communicate that effectively across the univese? JahFurry (Jeff Newelt - center) knows how.

They are helping a million woman build million dollars businesses. I am helping us do it profitably. Sooo much fun!

There's lots more...so join The Race. The more I learn the more I realize...I don't know...(well, you know.)

It's a good feeling. Thanks, boys and girls!!

xo$, Ellen

Sell stuff for more than it costs...

2008-12-14T10:47:00.002-06:00

Greetings!

I had HOOT with the biz building women at the Make Mine a $1 Million event in Florida. I was asked what great advice one of my mentors had given me. What words of wisdom changed my life for the better? Here you go...

"Sell stuff for more than it costs." ~Frank Blau (Thanks, Frank!)

Yep, the basics work...in any economic climate. We lived the dream in Florida...check out the view from my hotel balcony.

Even better...we are expanding peace, prosperity and freedom across the planet. Your business is no small thing. It can change everything. It can FIX the economy. It can instill hope.

What's YOUR intention for 2009? Put your Biz Plan together. Expand in QUANTUM leaps. Join the RACE! Be, do and have everything you want.

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen

I don't know how to communicate this well enough...

2008-12-07T21:55:00.000-06:00

Greetings!

Al Levi and I just put on a Teleseminar. It's about the BEST way to grow your company...BIG and FAST. It works especially well in a bad economy. I have done my best to describe why you should learn how to do this. Check it out at http://www.growbiginabadeconomy.com/

If you are still sitting on the fence after reading my description of the program...I apologize. I just don't know how to fully communicate what a great strategy this is. Al and I are pretty darn smart and super experienced when it comes to USING this information. I don't know ANY marketing tactic that can touch this for fast growth with greatest potential Return on Investment. The risk is low...because you can apply this stategy a little or a lot...mild or extra spicy. You decide. The biggest risk would be to ignore this offer and have someone else kick your butt in your market area with this approach. So, take the chance and sign up.

Or, at the very least...join us for the next Teleseminar. We have had lots of questions and we plan to address them on 12.30.2009.

We want to help you GROW BIG in 2009. It is so much fun for us...and will be even more fun for you! If you are ready to expand...forget business as usual. Take a quantum leap. Be, do and have all that you can possibly imagine!

It's easier than you may think. :)

Be free! xo$, Ellen

On the sidelines or in the game...

2008-11-28T12:21:00.002-06:00

Greetings!

Here's a pic of Gail and Lynn (2 of my sisters) and I the day before the Philadelphia marathon. We ran the half marathon...13.1 miles. I have run four full marathons before. This year, I decided to run the half. It's easier and takes less time to train...and it is still extreme enough that it gets your attention.

The race route winds through Philadelphia...to Penn's Landing, through Drexel University, along the Schukyll River. I was overcome with emotion every time I saw someone spot a cheering loved one on the side of the road: Yeah!! You are doing great!! I'm so proud of you! If you have ever run or watched a marathon, it will amaze you who actually finishes. Really big, super old, too young, too skinny, wicked wobbly people finish marathons. As they do, you might think, "Hmmm. If they can do it, maybe I can do it." You might make a decision to get in the game.

Last year, Lynn and Gail came to Philly to cheer me on. They were inspired by the event, by the sea of positive power, by the best of humanity. It's a massive expression of setting goals and achieving them...even if the odds are stacked against you. This year they were in the race...not on the sidelines. Very cool!

Next month, I am heading back to the Davis Correctional Facility in Holdenville, OK. Gail and I will be working with them on their Biz Plans and getting them up to speed on accounting programs. The gentlemen in this class are the most willing, least whiney students I have ever had.

They have had it with sitting on the sidelines and just want to get back in the game.

How about you? Why not do something amazing with your business, with your life? 2009 is just around the corner. Whatever you had planned...why not triple the expectation?

I am here to help.

Love, peace, $$,

Ellen

PS Al Levi and I are sharing an EXTREME way to super charge your marketing. Join us at the FREE Bare Bones Biz Teleseminar on 12.2.2008.

Living the dream...hanging with "Coop"

2008-11-18T04:45:00.000-06:00

Greetings!

How cool is this? These are two of my sisters, Trish and Gail, hanging with Anderson Cooper. The report: Anderson was cool, interesting, authentic and FUNNY. That's high praise from two of the coolest, most interesting, completely authentic and extremely funny people I know. Living the dream!

Who's on your list to meet? Jim Rohn suggests that you are the average of the last 5 people you hung out with. Hmmm.

Love, peace, $$, freedom to you!

xo$, Ellen

While others shrink...it's time to go go grow!

2008-11-17T08:09:00.001-06:00

Greetings!

Come on. Put your big pants on. Step into some high heels. Quit quivering and GROW your company. The money is there and the time is NOW.

Of course. I want you to keep score (KFP is the place to be!) and make good financial decisions. This is all about your CHOICE to expand. Craft your vision of your ideal business and perfect life and LIVE it. You can be a one-person company and go go grow in 2009. You might want to add the second shop, the third shop (if you REALLY want it...Al and I can help.) It's up to you. I just want to be one voice saying, "Go for greatness!" when so many others are saying, "Run for the hills."

xo$, Ellen

Expanding your business...in inches or quantum leaps?

2008-11-15T16:45:00.000-06:00

Greetings!

Michelle and I are at LAX airport, waiting for our flight back home to Missourah. I am SOoooo fired up. (Had to use several OOoohs!) We just attended Alexandria Brown's workshop on online marketing. Here's what I learned. It isn't about marketing. It's about choosing...to inch along or take a quantum leap. We are leaping, baby!

The planet is well served by your, and our, extraordinary business. We are here to help, to serve you. If you are ready...let's go go grow together!

One of my "light bulb" moments this week: You are well served to go to class once in a while. You can surround yourself with people who challenge you, who are smart, and focused...and wealthy. You can find a reason to get up in the morning that's bigger than turning wrenches or building websites. You can set down your baggage and take the leap.

Are you ready to be free?

xo$, Ellen

Barack and Roll! NOW is the time to go go GROW...

2008-11-05T07:18:00.001-06:00

Greetings!

Wow...what a thrill to cast my ballot in this year's election. How COOL it is that we can peacefully choose. And CONGRATULATIONS, President Elect Barack Obama!

And, you get it, don't you, that it just doesn't make any difference who is in the White House when it comes to your personal and business success? You understand, don't you, that YOU are the one responsible for playing the game and setting the intention? The boundaries of the game may be established by our government. Your intention determines your success. And NOW is the best time ever to start, fix and grow your own extraordinary business.

It helps to KNOW the rules. And it helps to keep score. In that spirit, and to help out Joe the Plumber, who may yet start his own business, we are offering FREE download-able copies of "Where Did the Money Go?" - my terrific book about business and accounting basics. Enjoy! And, while the offer lasts, pass the link on to friends, family, poverty-stricken competitors...and business illiterate politicians. :)

So, have some fun! Lay claim to an extraordinary business and living your best life. Together, we can create the economic stimulus package our country - the world - needs to help us expand peace and prosperity across the planet.

I am honored to work with a group committed to these shared goals. Women, listen up! Men, get the attention of the women in your life! Join us at Make Mine a Million as we create one million woman-owned businesses of $1,000,000 in sales. My responsibility to the group is to help members get to a $1,000,000 in sales...PROFITABLY!

The Make Mine a Million group is hosting a Leadership Institute. It is being held in sunny Hollywood, Florida the 8th through the 10th of December, 2008. The line up of workshops is top notch. I'll be there, natch, along with our fearless leader Nell Merlino. Check it out...and join us!

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen xox$

Joe...offer to help from a Plumber's wife...

2008-10-22T08:09:00.000-05:00

Dear Joe,

I spend most of my day helping Plumbers (and others, but mostly Plumbers) dig out of financial messes. I love Plumbers. However, they usually think that hard work is what it takes to be successful in business. And then, 20 years later, they are knee deep in debt and thankless 16 hour work days.

I'm a Plumber's wife. I figured out how to make money. A wise old Plumber taught me...and I am happy to help you.

This is an offer to be of service. Let's spend a half hour on the phone. I can help you start, fix and grow a winning business. And it won't matter who gets elected.

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen
www.barebonesbiz.com

To you and Joe the Plumber...from a Plumber's wife...

2008-10-20T08:28:00.003-05:00

Greetings!

No matter who gets elected president, Joe the Plumber's success as a business owner has NOTHING to do with the proposed tax plans. Either way...McCain or Obama...Joe has some basic misunderstandings about business that are going to challenge him, probably sink him, unless he gets them cleared up.

So, I am offering my e-book, "Where Did the Money Go?" - accounting basics for the business owner who hates numbers - FREE to Joe...and FREE to anyone else who would like a copy. Just click here.

Business is not about avoiding taxes. Business is about clarifying your intention...and moving in the direction of your goals. Business is about growing assets. It's about charging more than it costs. It's about KNOWING your costs - including taxes - and making sure your selling price reflects those costs. It's about keeping score and making better, faster, more profitable decisions based on sound data. It's about not spending what you don't have. It's about paying back what you borrow. It's about delivering on your promises, and doing what you do so well that your customers will pay what you ask. It's about discovering why you do what you do and how well you communicate that. It's about joyful service. It's about love. It's about peaceful, prosperous, free trade. It's about just enough regulation to keep people honest.

And, it's about paying taxes. Yep, we already have a tax system in this company, and it's set up that those who make more, pay more (unless you are really really really rich.) However, paying taxes isn't inherently wrong.

I don't think Joe gets this. He's not alone. Most small businesses suck...the money and life right out of the owners. Why? Because the owners don't know the basics. Don't have a clue. If Joe pulled off buying that company, he may well drive it right down the drain. Because Joe doesn't know his assets from his elbow. That's no disgrace. He can learn what he needs to know. And, I would be honored to help Joe become a successful businessperson.

I am a Plumber's wife. Once upon a time, I almost sunk the family business because I didn't know where the money was going or how to make more of it. Keep in mind I graduated at the top of my class with a bachelors in Business Administration. I dug a deep ditch of debt and was sure that the problem was...the economy, our employees, my husband, our customers, etc. The problem was...ME. I was fortunate enough to find a mentor (thanks, Frank!) who encouraged me (used a brick!) to confront my ignorance. He taught me how to make money. He taught me the basics, and the basics work...from Main Street to Wall Street.

That's why I do what I do. I love helping people achieve freedom...financial freedom, freedom to live life as they choose to...by helping them start, fix and grow extraordinary businesses. I fell in a few holes, holes I would love to help Joe the Plumber steer clear of. I wrote a book, "Where Did the Money Go?" - accounting basics for the business owner who hates numbers. It's a beginner's book on business basics. I wrote this book because once I learned to keep score, I started to make more money. I became a better financial steward...of our Plumbing business and the family fortune. I am committed to sharing this liberating information. Business isn't hard...and it can be so much fun! It's just that we need some basic business education. I am here to help!

I am making my e-book, "Where Did the Money Go?" available to everyone who wants a copy at NO charge until November 5th, 2008. Just click here, fill out your name and email address. I'll email you a FREE download link to the book. Save it or print it. And feel free to pass it along to someone else. Or send them to this blog ...or this link...

http://www.barebonesbiz.com/index.html

I believe everyone is better off knowing and applying business basics. Pass a copy along to your neighbors, friends, kids, congressional representatives and presidential candidates.

Joe, this book is for you! And the rest of us, too. I offer it in love, peace, $$ and freedom.

xoxo$$, Ellen

Don't bank on the Bailout...

2008-10-04T10:58:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

No matter what happens with the economy, there will be people who make money. Why not you? Sell stuff for more than it costs. Add value to materials or offer helpful services...and find people who can afford to pay you in exchange. Free trade. As long as there are two people left on the planet, the choices will be the same: Trade or war. Sanity or insanity. Choose trade. And focus on YOUR business. Ignore the economy, as best you can, and pursue the basics. Make money. Pay down debt. Don't panic. Get clear on what you want and move confidently in that direction.

The Challenge can help. It starts Monday, October 13th. Why not make your dreams your priority? Why not you...and why not now?

"Unless YOU change, nothing will change for you. Once you change, everything changes." ~ Jim Rohn

Look around you. When the economy is strong or weak, don't you see folks who never pull it together? Don't you see folks who always make money? At some point in our lives, we will need a hand. At the least, when we are very young or very old. It is OK to ask for help when you need help. And, you are responsible for lending a hand when you are in a position to help.

Where are you now? Do you need help? Ask for it. Can you lend a hand? Offer it. Together, we can build businesses and expand peace, prosperity and freedom. That we can do...in spite of the nonsense that's happening on Capital Hill.

Join me for The Challenge.

I visited with one of my clients on Friday. When I met Kieth, he had set a goal of reaching $1Million in Sales. He is heading for $2.5 Million this year. His goal for 2009: $4 Million. He told me he just doesn't participate

“Ellen opened new windows into running our business. Work with her...it's an absolute must!”

~Kieth Hilligoss
Air Solutions Heating & Cooling Inc.

Call Kieth at (918) 241-2362 and ask him how he is making money and having fun in spite of all the fearful hyperbole.

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen

Bailout or Blowout? Your BEST solution...

2008-09-25T23:30:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Wow...is the economy as bad as we are being led to believe? Will the markets grind to a halt should a deal NOT be struck by Monday? Do we really want a room full of latte-fueled politicians arranging a shot-gun wedding for taxpayers and diseased financial institutions? Could we skip the hyperbole and deal with problems? Let's just keep our heads.

Have you read Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith? Take a look...and see if it resonates with you. The economy works when we act in our own best interests. As long as we are not completely whack. (Therein lies the rub.)

What you can do for the economy is this: Sell stuff for more than it costs by adding value to people's lives. Thrive. Survive. Encourage sanity.

And no panicking.

As long as there are two people left on this planet, they will figure out how to trade with one another.

Unfortunatly, politicians are the least likely folks to figure out an economic crisis. It would be a good idea to invite a few businesspeople to the meetings. It would help to breathe and consider consequences and take a few days (weeks?) to craft a least-of-bad-options solution. I suspect a deal will be hastily pulled together and we'll live with the fall out for a long, long time.

Here's what you can do: Build your business. Encourage the economy one transaction at a time.

We'll be starting The Challenge on October 13th. Don't fall into fear and desperation. Choose to thrive. Dare to live an extraordinary life. I challenge you.

xo$, Ellen

1 Million Women, $1 Million Biz Each...a WOW of a stimulus package...

2008-09-21T18:20:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

I am INSPIRED. I just returned from the Make Mine a Million $ Business event in New Mexico. Our intention... 1 Million Women with $1 Million in Sales in their businesses.

That's...$1,000,000,000,000. That's 12 zeroes. THAT is an economic stimulus package.

I have always maintained that the LEAST secure position is a job. Now, with the news on Wall Street, it makes even more sense to grow your own fortune.

This is a shout out to all the women. (Now, now...you know I am a big fan of MEN. It's just that women are behind when it comes to equal pay and opportunity and we are going to help get caught up.) Join the Make Mine a $Million movement.

Got an IDEA for a business? Have a business already? You qualify. Check it out at http://www.makemineamillion.org/

In New Mexico, I listened to Ms. Mogul and Celebrity Apprentice Nely Galan speak. She is one of my HEROES! She spoke of lots of failure and wild success. Very inspiring! And I met a new hero... Amilya. Wow!...she's racked up over $100 million in Sales with her companies. I also met social networking wonderman Jeff Newelt. Yes, there IS a connection between the internet, Jazz and graphic novels. I am SO glad I have Jeff in my network! And, Nell Merlino is the founder of Make Mine a $Million. She spoke of her vision of filling the mall in DC with 1 Million $Million Women biz owners. She believes in YOU. I believe in HER!

Wouldn't we be darling with a Trillion $ in Sales? Come on sisters...Join up! Let's expand...love, peace, $$ and FREEDOM!

xo$, Ellen

Do You YouTube?

2008-09-05T15:53:00.007-05:00

Greetings!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6LcUF0i9LA

Do you You Tube? This video - click on the link above - was created by one of our Challengers. The assignment was to summarize your business plan in a 2 minute video. This is what Bob and Paula Williamson of American Chimney Sweeps put together. Well done!

You can create training videos, commercials, public service announcements, how-to clips...with a click of your video camera. Check your phone out...it may even have a video recording option.

What a miraculous time we live in! Check out http://www.youtube.com/ and search for anything you have an interest in. Fascinating people. Amazing places. How to fold a T shirt in 2 seconds or less.

Check THIS out and consider how this technology will change our world...

What will YOU do with it?

xo$, Ellen

The Challenge and The Go Giver...and FAST cash!

2008-08-30T11:21:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

This is what Cathy Smithmeyer had to say about participating in The Challenge...

"The most memorable part of The Challenge was the 'aha' moment when Bill & I realized that if we want to make money with this business, instead of just having a job, we would have to redesign our business to reflect our goals. We also were amazed at the fact that Ellen took the time on a holiday weekend to meet with just 3 of her Challengers. She and the Bare Bones Biz program give more information away and offer more support than any other program or training I have had. Again it has to be the fact that Ellen makes herself so accessible and gives all the tools needed to make this work."

Here is a picture of them...with their very own Biz Plan Binder. Yeehaw! Cathy and Bill are visualizing their ideals...and taking inspired action. THAT'S living the dream!

More good news...here's a hot new book recommendation: The Go Giver, by Bob Burg and John David Mann. We live in a universe of paradox. The more you give, the more you receive. The more money you make the more options for giving it away...and enjoying as it comes back to you again. This book is an inspiration for enjoying that kind of freedom. Check it out.

AND...how nice when another business builder recognizes our good work and passes the word along. I would like to return the favor. Check out FastUpFront.com This is a cool website promoting FAST tips for getting start-up and expansion capital. Here's the thing...if our mission is to promote peaceful, prosperous free trade across the planet, we are going to need help. So, the more folks out there teaching and using business basics...the better for all of us.

Stay tuned!! The Challenge starts up again on October 2008. What a perfect way to make sure that 2009 is your best year yet...not just the same-old-same-old.

Love, peace, $$, freedom,

Ellen xo$

Freedom...through the FIRE!

2008-08-17T11:38:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

I am working with a group of Chimney Sweeps, helping them build their Biz Plans, in a private Challenge program. I LOVE Sweeps! I am so appreciative of the valuable skills that they bring to our world. They help keep us safe when we play with, and heat with, fire. It's an honor to work with them. They deserve to make lots of money doing the essential work that they do.

What I've learned is that when you are REALLY good at one area of your life, it can be VERY frustrating to be awkward in a new endeavor. As I help folks build Bare Bones Biz Plans, we work through some of these awkward moments. In order to become master Biz Builder, you may need to start at the beginning...new words and terms, new tools, new understandings. Sheesh.

I got a big dose of understanding this week. I traveled to the Appalacian mountain country of North Carolina and participated in a Blacksmithing class. (Check out one of my favorite places on the planet... http://www.folkschool.org/)

Well, I was the least skilled person in my class. Within a few minutes of swinging the hammer, I got a dime-sized blister on my hand. My skinny arm filled with lactic acid and shook like a Polaroid picture. Halfway through the weeklong class, I burst into tears as a realized that I damaged one of the teacher's lovely metal working tools! Oh, how humbling to be a beginner.

But, I went back. No one expected me to be an expert Blacksmith at the end of the week. What I expected, what my teacher expected, was that I would hang in there and learn something. Trying new things expands your mind and your awareness of the human condition. It helps you connect with others. Creative endeavors keep us young and fresh. And, you know, if I keep after it...I could even attain Blacksmithing mastery. Learning plus focused application of the skills can lead to mastery.

Or not. I don't have to pursue this. I can chose to. If I do, my mastery may come...and I will probably shed a few more tears along the way.

In one week I learned basic Blacksmithing skills, developed a fantastic appreciation of the art of Reposse'...and came home with a pretty cool mobile that I made with fire and steel. :) Nice! Special thanks to my wonderful teachers, Mark and Mindy Gardner! (Check them out at http://www.floodplainforge.com/)

Trying something new in your business? Does it feel wierd? Good. You are learning. Press on through the fire to freedom!

xo$, Ellen

The freedom...to play with your family and friends!

2008-08-08T06:21:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Max and I joined my friend Lisa and her family and Max's girlfriend Ali in San Francisco last week. We did the whole tourist routine...Muir woods, Sausalito, Alcatraz. We had a BLAST. Then, on Sunday, Max and I ran the half marathon. (Lisa ran the full marathon...atta girl!) We had a GREAT time. Time together, having fun...how cool is that?

Your business can be a ticket to freedom. Freedom to play with your family and friends. Why not choose NOW to create that? It's about focused thought and aligned inspired action. It's about joy and love.

Check out The Complete Suite. It's my best advice...and a boat-load of practical tools...for building your own extraordinary business.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE,

Ellen xox$

David Neagle, Barack Obama...me and Max

2008-07-29T00:54:00.003-05:00

Greetings!

Living the Dream comes from paying attention to that voice that tells you to...pay attention. I got a last minute invitation to join my pal, Nancy Michaels, at a David Neagle program. Check him out at http://www.davidneagle.com/ I had been hearing about David from a multitude of sources. I was pretty interested in his coaching program...and then, boom, an invitation drops in my lap. Now, I could have said, "No, thanks," for about a dozen reasons. However, I decided to go. Today, I will be in Las Vegas with Nancy, listening, learning and expanding my world. After that, dinner with my nephew Patrick and his beloved, Jenny. Then off to San Francisco for friends and family and the San Francisco Half Marathon. I am Living the Dream.

Today, my son, Max, arranged a face to face meeting with Barack Obama. Hot Rod just happened to be at his computer when an email came along with a blink-and-you-miss-it opportunity from the local Democratic Committe chairman. Hot Rod had done some work with him once upon a time and built a relationship. Max is an Obama supporter and today he is Living the Dream. After he shares his views with the Senator, he'll join me to run in San Francisco. How good it is!!

Open yourself up to what you want and allow all good things to come to you.

xo$, Ellen

PS Your business can help you Live the Dream. Fix it if its broken. Expand it if it is confining. Create an amazing life with an extraordinary business. The Complete Suite is my best advice and total toolbox for helping you Live the Dream.

Small business as a path to a free, BIG life...

2008-07-21T07:13:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

When you improve any area of your life, the other areas of your life are positively affected. My friend Mary has this to share...

"The biz is WILD!! There is absolutely so much going on that is good and great. So much of our growth strategy is in full swing to make the Holidays the most happening ever. Plus, I am still running. Ran 6 miles a couple of Sundays ago for the first time in my life. Slow, steady and sure to get to the finish...somewhat the same with business, isn't it?"

Mary Ardapple is the president of Apple's Bakery, Inc. I'm so proud of Mary and her team and their rockin' Bare Bones Biz Plan! She is finding confidence to build her business and her daily running mileage. Very cool. She's living the dream.

She also has a wonderful Mission, the WHY she is in business...

"Facilitators of great conversation with Smiles Made from Scratch!" I LOVE this!

One of the conversations at her bakery? What is it like to be allergic to basic foods...like bread and apple pie? Mary is responding by creating a gluten-free line of products...and going gluten-free for a week to find out. Read about her adventures in her Blog. :) You'll be tempted to get your Holiday gifts lined up when you see what Mary and her team are baking!

Sometimes when you are particularly stuck in an area, the best approach is work on another part of yourself and your experience. And as you experience success and JOY...it spreads to everything.

Have you checked out The Complete Suite? It will help you build a rockin' good Biz Plan for yourself. It will help you think about what you want...and take inspired action in that direction. The Complete Suite is The Bare Bones Biz Plan...and LOTS of wonderful, customizeable tools, forms, checklists and multi-media coaching for helping you BE FREE...in business, and in life.

Love, peace, $$,

Ellen

The Wheel...a less than obvious business bulding tool...

2008-07-13T12:50:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Once upon a time, somebody invented the wheel. He showed it to his buddy and said, "This is the greatest invention since Eve." And his buddy hit him on the head with a club.

His buddy didn't get it. It wasn't obvious. Somebody was going to have to SHOW his buddy how to drive this thing. Then, the "Aha!" lights could go on!

I'm delighted to show you the simple, elegant, POWERFUL tools in my personal toolbox. I call it...The Complete Suite. It's the best of what I have learned, and used, to grow multi-million dollar businesses.

Your business success drives me! I am here to help. I believe that people are more peaceful, prosperous and FREE when they know how to start, fix and grow their own businesses. It's why I do what I do.

xo$, Ellen

...love...peace...$$$...FREEDOM!

PS This is Lucky. Dogs are great teachers. This was a lesson for me to lighten up and take the rest of the day OFF.

PPS And, while we are on the work less, accomplish more theme...check out my latest, favorite book... "Beach Money" by Jordan Adler. Thanks to Howard Partridge for the recommendation. Super simple, ultra-useable tips for building your business network. Well done!

Let others HELP you...build an extraordinary business!

2008-07-07T07:58:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

On the last page of her monthly magazine, Oprah shares what she knows for sure. Here's what I know for sure...

Sometimes you have to allow someone else to help you.

I just attended Nancy Michaels' program, Generating Corporate Sponsorship - a 10 Step Proven System. Wow! Nancy is authentic and generous and shares what she knows works. I am pysched to put her well-earned lessons to work for me, too. Thanks, Nancy! You can order a recorded version of the program. Contact Misty and let her know you are ready to GROW!

I love doing what I do. I get such a kick out of your success! We are expanding peace, love and freedom across the planet...one extraordinary business at a time. Here is a love letter from one of my clients...

Hi Ellen!

I just want to formally say...THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!!

You and Gail were absolutely fantastic!! In the two and a half days that the Bare Bones Biz Team spent at our office, you have forever touched and changed our lives! Sounds kinda corny coming from me, but I honestly mean that. I don't know what the hell took me so long to call you. I have only been reading your articles and your website for the past 10 years! Better late than never right?

Thank you for getting us on the right path. I so look forward to keeping in touch with you, as Kristine and I build our empire! We will do it!

Please feel free to give ANYONE - who might be on the fence (like I was) regarding committing to your Financial Intensive Personal Training seminar - our phone number!
I will straighten them out in a hurry!

Thanks, Ray and Kristine! Think about what you want...and move forward in inspired action. As Joseph Campbell says, "Follow your bliss." If it feels good, you are on the right track. So...ENJOY the journey!

Love, peace, $$$, FREEDOM!

Ellen xo$

Freedom...and living the dream...

2008-07-03T17:29:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Once upon a time, one of my mentors shared that the key to keeping your big kids close is the family vacation. Go away together. Stay off the phone. Have some fun. Make some trouble. And the stories you create bond you like Elmer's glue. That's great advice.

Hot Rod and Max and I explored Germany, Switzerland and Italy for 10 days. We had so much fun. And even the goofy moments - did you know gasolino means DIESEL in Italian? - make for great memories. Max took this picture as we crossed the Alps from Suisse to Italia.

Max took this picture from the path to Monterosa in Cinque Terre, Italia. This magical place represents the peaceful collaboration of gardeners, farmers and tightly spaced city dwellers...many from families who have lived in this area for hundreds and hundreds of years. I was reminded over and over of the power of peaceful free trade...honorable exchange of goods and services.

Money isn't everything. However, money buys options. Use your extraordinary business to create money, options and memories. Especially now, as many cower in fear of economic downturns, stay focused on what you want. You can create FREEDOM...financial freedom and the confidence to make your dreams reality.

A plan helps. Check out The Bare Bones Biz Plan. Consider your intention, your focused action and the power of the universe. You can have what you really want when you know what you want.

I know like I know like I know (to borrow Oprah's expression) that you can create the life you want. My mission is to help you find the freedom of a life - and a business - lived with passion and intention. Your business is a playground for making that happen.

Love, peace, $$, FREEDOM,

Ellen
http://www.barebonesbiz.com/

Accepting The Challenge...

2008-06-10T00:30:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

I love what I do. My intention is to help people experience the joy and freedom of creating an extraordinary business. Free, honorable trade across the planet...what a peaceful place it could be!

So, I threw down The Challenge. I challenge you to spend 6 weeks putting your Biz Plan together. What if you paused and thought about what you want? Why, you would set the universe in motion to make sure you get it.

What makes my work soooo rewarding is when someone picks up my challenge and ROCKS it. Shirley Lidtke did just that. Her Bare Bones Biz Plan is inspiring...and she is using it to develop a TEAM of leaders at her company. These folks are building a multi-state roofing company. Even better, they are creating opportunity and prosperity at every level of their organization!

Thanks, Shirley. Thanks to all The Challengers! Thanks for expanding peace and freedom.

"If you have knowledge, let others light their candles at it." ~Margaret Fuller

xo$...and freedom!

Ellen

"Accidental Entrepreneur" Linda Russell of Mugshots

2008-05-13T07:00:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

Business builders inspire me...especially when they rise up from rough situations. Check out my friend, Linda Russell of http://www.mugsyclicks.com/

She's featured this week in Business Week magazine as an "accidental entrepreneur." She's turned a tough life into a winning business and better opportunities for her and her family. I have been working with Linda to help her build her Biz Plan. I GET her concept...as a business expert and as a mom. I have a boxload of crappy school pictures. Her school photography approach focuses on wonderful, frameable photos and a positive esteem-building experience for the kids. And, she is a Marketing Maven. Check out the Mugsy Mobile!

Congratulations Linda!! I am so proud of you. :)

xo$, Ellen

Living the DREAM...a moment to savor!!

2008-05-05T13:43:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Well, here is the Rohr familia...on Max's graduation day. He earned a bachelor's degree from the U of Utah. How proud we all are. What a moment to savor...Living the Dream!! LTD!

And, none of us have any debt for his education. Nice. Remember to build college $$ into your selling price as you craft your Budget. An extraordinary business can help you live the dream.

They call graduation "commencement" because it is about beginning the next phase of your life. May you begin today to choose your thoughts very well and take inspired action in the direction of your Perfect Life.

xoxo$$,

Ellen

Ellen, Phenomenal Products...and crazy people!

2008-04-27T12:36:00.005-05:00

Greetings!

I had a PHENOMENAL time with Howard Partridge and his winning business associates...the Inner Circle and The Knights of the Round Table. These guys are cleaning professionals. Even better...they are building extraordinary businesses. I shared ideas from The Bare Bones Biz Plan. They taught me about the Cleaning industry...and I am LOVING it. There is money, as well as honor, purpose and love to be shared and expanded. We had FUN and I left inspired...to expand Worldwide Business Literacy.

We found some CRAZY people in the audience. Take a look at the video! The point is...the whiter your collar the less obvious your skills. A Cleaning Pro gets the stain out - or not - and we can see his or her expertise. Psychiatrists on the other hand. Well, don't get me started...

Love, peace and LOTS of $$$ to you!

xo$, Ellen

Wetheads are big softies...and big givers...

2008-04-12T22:31:00.008-05:00

Greetings!

Thanks to Dan and Marianne Holohan of http://www.heatinghelp.com/ for raising over $12,000 for the 3-Day Walk for Breast Cancer Cure event.

Hot Rod and I had fun fun fun at Wetstock, a total nerdfest (I mean that in the best way) of hydronic heating pros. There were raffles, a silent auction, great food and interesting tech and biz talk...and all the money went to charity. Cool!

The more you create, the more you can share. How nice to be able to lend a hand. Dan and Marianne are big time Big Givers. It was a blast to join forces and come up with some big $$$.

Also, Mark Eatherton was honored for being a generous, positive force in the hydronics world and all around wonderful Wethead with the Holohan/Carlson award. Visit http://www.heatinghelp.com/ and say HI to Dan, Mark and the rest of the Wetheads.

xo$, Ellen

PS The Challenge starts Monday, April 14th. Are you ready?

Would you hire an ex-con?

2008-04-03T19:04:00.004-05:00

Greetings!

I just finished teaching a Bare Bones Biz Planning class at the Davis Correctional Facility. I learned about Randy and his Commercial Cleaning Class when he ordered my books to use as part of his business building curriculum. He asked if I would participate in one of their sessions. Hot Rod and I drove to Holdenville, OK and we were absolutely impressed with the program and the students.

There was a gentleman in the class who has been incarcerated for more than 30 years. He has never seen or held a cell phone. He has never been on the internet.

He has been working on a Business Plan. And he is going to launch that plan when he gets out in six months.

You see, a lot of folks wouldn't hire an ex-con. Would you? Maybe not. Interestingly, a lot of folks who would never hire someone with a criminal record choose not to drug test their employees. (There is a short length of rope between someone who uses and gets caught...and someone who just uses.)

Well, my new friend is figuring he might not be very hirable. And he isn't interested in working for minimum wage. He has had a lot of time to think and plan...and his Biz Plan ROCKS.

So, you may not hire an ex-con. However, an ex-con just might start a competing business to yours. He may be committed to an incredibly high standard of excellence. He may be willing to hold his team to tough drug-free testing requirements. He may have been planning this business for years, working out the kinks, thinking it through, crafting his marketing concept...and now he is launching his rock solid Business Plan in your market area. He may have something to prove. And he might just prove it very, very successfully.

I learned that one in a hundred people in this country are behind bars. Some are spending their time developing personal and professional skills. Some are determined to make a better life for themselves and their families when get out.

It is my honor to be of service to Randy and his students. Here's to a brighter, better future...and extraordinary businesses!

"Most people look up and admire the stars, but a champion climbs a mountain and grabs one." ~Raymond Carrasco

xox$, Ellen

Who said teachers don't make a lot of money...

2008-03-29T10:34:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

You have to LOVE this...two Kindergarten teachers rolling in the dough! Trish and Kathy are building their Biz Plan and a winning business. It has been my honor to have them participate in The Challenge. Your success expands hope, prosperity and peace on earth. Well done!

Are you ready...to create an extraordinary business? I challenge you...

xo$, Ellen

The power of trade (or, don't steal the corn!)

2008-03-21T23:42:00.006-05:00

Greetings!

I'm reading "Mayflower' by Nathaniel Philbrick. It's about the Pilgrims founding Plymouth, Massachusetts. Only, it had already been found.

Half of the folks who boarded the Mayflower died before they arrived in the New Word. The ones who staggered on to land were hungry, sick and ill equiped to survive the harsh New England winter. Couple that desperation with the core belief that the Native Americans were heathens and not as valuable as, say, Pilgrims. What you get is a recipe for justified theft.

The very first time they encounter an Indian camp...they steal their corn. Not an auspicious beginning.

The book outlines several generations of confiscation and war. We want what you have but don't want to compensate you for it. So, we'll just take it. (Sound familiar?)

There were brief moments of peace. The Thanksgiving dinner was one. Each moment was created in the spirit of free enterprise...

Here's what I have to offer. What have you got? Let's help each other. Let's trade. Let's do business together.

That's how you make peace.

Love, peace, $$$,

Ellen

PS. Our first round of Challengers are graduating this Monday. Businessowners bearing Biz Plan Binders, building bigger and better businesses. Thank you, dear Challengers! It has been a BLAST.

Here's what Ryan Riley had to say about his Challenger experience...
As a sole proprietor, I was so overwhelmed deciding what “hat” to where that I never had the time to build my business. I can relate when Ellen says “get off the hamster wheel” because I was the hamster and have run many circles on the wheel. Creating a business plan always seemed to get pushed aside in order to handle the day to day, crisis and deadline driven projects. Once I heard about “The Challenge” I committed to spending one hour a day, 5 days a week to complete my business plan. Today, I know why it is called “The Challenge” because it is difficult to step back and take a look in the mirror when you aren’t where you want to be but Ellen holds you accountable for your actions, keeps you on track, and inspires you to think big!

Thanks, Ryan! I am proud of you! The next Challenge starts April 15th.

Thought creates reality so banish these words...

2008-03-18T09:18:00.004-05:00

Greetings!

This came up in our Challenge call this week. Here are some tips for making the phone RING!

If there are not enough sales opportunities it is because you have neglected to create them. Your focus has been elsewhere. We are powerful beings. Watch your words. Words impact reality. Forbid the use of these words at your company:

Dead. (No one’s dying. You just need a few more calls.)
Estimate. (Estimate means, “No one is buying. Just give them a price for work that someone else will do.” Instead, use the word Service Call or Sales Opportunity.
Never and always. Get the data and skip the generalizations.
Economy. What difference can you make by discussing the economy? Do your part to help our economy and grow your own business.

Discipline your thoughts. Prioritize and take action on your To Dos and projects. If you turn your focus on the tornado…on the “trouble”…it will gravitate towards you. It must. That’s how the universe works. If you focus your words, your thoughts and your energy on making the phone ring, the phone will ring, by mandate of basic universal law.

Focus on making FRIENDS. Friends are PEOPLE YOU HAVE FUN WITH.

Quit looking for the silver bullet and do something simple. My critics. Maybe the word basic is a problem? It’s reality. Simple things done are more effective than fancy things contemplated.

“Winners do not neglect to do the easy things that cause success. The definition of ‘easy’ is ‘something I can do.’” Jim Rohn

xo$, Ellen

When it all comes down to it...is the WHY compelling enough?

2008-03-15T14:08:00.005-05:00

Dear Challengers,

When you are Making Sure (week six of The Bare Bones Biz Plan) that you are on the right path, consider the WHY. Why do you bother with this business? WHY are you putting this Biz Plan together? WHY not do something else with your life?

Here's a clue...if my asking you WHY is irritating because the WHY is a given for you...then, you are probably on a good path.

If you can see the WHY, your Biz Plan is an opportunity to explain the WHY to someone else. Like your spouse, or employees...or customers.

WHY doesn't Apple, Inc. fill their ad space with a list of technical features? Their competitors do. If you are an Apple customer, the WHY has something to do with the obvious and elegant design. The assumption is that if it looks this amazing...it probably is...and YOU are smart enough to get it. The message is...we're the other guys, the anti-Microsoft (anti-establishment)...the ones who are going with the flow instead of battling the current. The WHY is extremely cool.

My friend Simon Sinek is teaching me about the WHY. And this week's exercises in The Bare Bones Biz Plan are all about asking and answering that question.

My WHY? I believe in the power of business. I believe that YOU have everything you need...in your head and your heart...to discover how you can deliver your unique gifts and services to the world...and to be rewarded for that. And, as you receive you expand. An honorable exchange of our gifts and services with each other across the planet is a beautiful thing. It's our best shot at world peace.

You can do that. You can build a business of your dreams. Whatever you want. I can help you pull that idea out of your head and focus your actions. I can help you be a good financial steward. Mostly, I can help you see that you have everything you need...in your head and in your heart...to be do and have anything you want. Business is an amazing way to express your WHY.

Thanks, Linda, for the inspiration today! Thanks, Simon, for continuing to ask the question. And thanks, dear Challengers, for building world peace...one extraordinary business at a time...

"See" you on the call on Monday!

xo$, Ellen

Stay out of your customer's wallet! The Challenge update...

2008-03-03T18:02:00.004-06:00

Greetings!

Dear Challengers, I continue to be inspired by you...and learn from you...each time we get together. We are on Week 5 - two more weeks until your Biz Plan is officially up and moving you in the direction of your Perfect Life and Ideal Business. Already, you can see the effects...of imagining what you want and putting that thought into inspired action. Well done!

And, you have been so generous with each other. Thanks for your participation on the Teleseminar calls. As he promised, Steve sent this information about financing. AND...note the wise words about staying out of your customer's wallet!

If a company does energy saving related work AFC First provides
financing for homeowners from the Mid Atlantic to NE states. Their
web site is www.energyloan.net They've helped several of our clients.

American General is a more traditional finance company. Higher rates,
but more acceptance.

Carmel Financing is a second tier lender. www.carmelfinancial.com

One of the things small business owners often do is to put their hands
on their clients wallets. By that I mean, we make financial decisions
for our clients. What we feel they will be able to afford dictates
what we offer. Interest rates a finance company may charge will
dictate whether we offer that company's services.

We need to not do that and let our clients/prospects make their own
decisions. I mention this because companies like American General,
CitiBank, etc offer financing at rates many of us would find
unacceptable. They offer financing for people who often don't have
good credit and know the local bank will probably turn them down. But
these same people often need the goods and services we have to offer.
Simply by offering them financing at ANY rate may get us the job.

Thanks, Steve!

Great advice for all of us. Let your customers make their own decisions. Your job is to listen, provide options...and let customers choose.

Back to The Challenge...this week, let's focus on Getting it Done!

"The most important thing to do in solving a problem is to begin." ~Frank Tyger

Love, peace$,

Ellen

The Challengers up the GAME!

2008-02-28T18:23:00.004-06:00

Greetings!

I like to think I know stuff. (Note where I live.) But...WOW! I learned a BIG lesson from two of our Challengers. It hit me like a bag of coins. I am delighted by what we are creating together...extraordinary businesses. What better way to promote world peace?

Here are some inspiring and helpful thoughts from our Challengers...

Hi Ellen,

You and I had talked before we started the challenge and we discussed my selling rate per hour. Well I have completed an in-depth review based on my past three years P&L's and I have come up with a price that was pretty much in the neighborhood you were talking about, (you act like you have done this before).

While working on this I have gone over my price guide with my staff and I have reviewed each item in our book as to the time I had figured for each task. I so I will be re-developing it with the proper pricing and time for each task. I will need to get it organized and I am intending to have it in the field on April 1st, 2008 I will start working with my techs (training them) with the new book about March 15th so we will have plenty of time to roll play it out and work out any bugs. Boy this planning stuff is fun, it sounds like a real business, who would have thought! I know I haven't thanked you for your help so far but I do appreciate it and I look forward to having a business instead of a business having me, I'm headed in the right direction and this will be a fun journey. So Thank You very much!!

Oh, thank YOU. It is so rewarding to grow together! xox$, E

Hey Ellen – As we continue through the program I am realizing that the binder will be a permanent fixture around here. The binder I got for the project is not going to cut it! LOL Started looking at Day Timers and they just were not filling the need and happened across the sight for Franklin Covey organizers http://shopping.franklincovey.com/shopping/index.jsp They offer a variety of binders from inexpensive vinyl to top quality leather with several formats you can customize. They have blank and lined paper available too so you can print your Biz Plan Binder pages and set them right in the binder.

Nice tip! Thanks! xox$, E

What's the big, coin-bag lesson I learned? Kathy and Trish of KT Education. They are crafting an agreement to present their revolutionary approach to smart classroom management via a one day seminar. In addition to the seminar, the organization is ordering one book - $20 - for each of the attendees. Now, I have always offered a seminar discount for my books. Why? My books are a bargain at $20. From here on out, I am holding to the retail price for the seminar attendees. Thanks, Trish and Kathy, for "schooling" me!!

Consider this: Most folks will tell you that there is no money in being a school teacher. Here are two school teachers who just leveraged a one day seminar into a $12,000 day. And, they are helping other teachers be more effective...working smarter, not harder. I love this!

Keep go go growing!

Love, peace, $$$,

Ellen

More on Week Four - adopting a Sales Trainer!

2008-02-25T23:20:00.002-06:00

Greetings, Challengers!

Congratulations! You are halfway through The Challenge. Your Biz Plan is shaping up. Well done! It's time to let loose and have some FUN with the Getting it Sold section.

Oh, it feels soooo good to make a good sale, to be paid well for serving your customers in your unique way. There is so much available to help you become a great sales professional. Check out...

www.sellingtrust.com
www.contractorselling.com
www.tomhopkins.com
www.appleseedbusiness.com
www.buygitomer.com

...to name just a few! Discover a Sales Trainer who suits you and soak it in.

Also, check out the Teleseminars at www.barebonesbiz.com and click on previous Teleseminars. I have some smart friends who have shared generously. Listen and learn about Sales and Marketing!

Remember to let me know if you would like to visit Thursday, Friday or Saturday this week. If we have not yet spent a few quality minutes together discussing YOUR Biz Plan Binder...well, let's do it. I am proud of what you've accomplished and it is a honor to be of service to you.

Here's to LOVE, PEACE and LOTS of $$$,

Ellen

"I can't tell you how encouraging this is..." Making $ and Getting it Sold...

2008-02-24T20:33:00.008-06:00

Greetings!

Did you watch the Academy Awards last night? I hope so. For every criticism one could have for so-shallow Hollywood, how can you not bask in the pure joy of acknowledgment of a job well done?

In a film clip montage, Ruth Gordon, winner of a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for Rosemary's Baby, said, "I can't tell you how encouraging this is." I believe it. May you be inspired to bestow a well deserved award at your next Sales Meeting.

In The Challenge last week, Challengers crunched numbers and confronted what it takes to cover costs and make the desired amount of profit. When you do that, you come up with a selling price that is higher than the "going rate."

Gulp.

So, this week we consider what it will take to Get it Sold at that price. It's all about making good on your promises in an extraordinary way. When you do that...you reap the rewards.

And you deserve an award.

"I am indeed rich, since my income is superior to my expense, and my expense is equal to my wishes." - Edward Gibbons

Love, peace, $$,

Ellen

Advice for Challengers - from Ty (Biz Expert and BBBP Builider!)

2008-02-18T16:32:00.001-06:00

Greetings, Challengers!

What a great, interactive, positive call yesterday. Thanks for all your participation. Your Biz Plans are coming together...and the effect is life changing. :)

After the call, Ty sent me this email. Thanks, Ty, for your sound advice.

Enjoy!

xo$, Ellen

Ellen:

I realized after the call that I probably wasn't as clear in my comments about my concept of "saving your way into prosperity" with respect to budgeting.

As I mentioned on the call, with our previous company, we didn't have Budget Line No. 1...and in the end, when the manure hit the ventilator, we just started cutting for cutting's sake. No rhyme or reason to the cuts, no thought process or analysis as to the cut's impact on top line sales. The only consideration was how many dollars. Our mentality was -- sales are down, eliminate every possible expense. Shrink the company, fast, right now.
Despite the slash and burn cuts, we found ourselves at the point where we were trying to land Moby Dick in a rowboat...hence my conclusion that "you can't save your way into prosperity."

Had we had a true budget in place, a real understanding of the financials, and been at KFP, we might have realized which expenses were directly related to top line sales; and that cutting those expenses were simply an excercise in pulling the life support plug on the patient.

The high tuition lesson here...having the great team in place costs "x"
dollars, and they are the ones that got you there in the first place. Figure out the top line necessary to support that team, and sell your butt off to make the top line match. Offense, as you put it.

But, without the facts (budget & financials) in front of you...it's not tough, it's impossible.

You're welcome to edit this ramble and share it with the group if you like.
As much as I hate budgeting, I won't operate any longer without it.

That's my two cents...

Ty

2008-02-17T21:27:00.003-06:00

Greetings!

One of our Challengers sent me this link. As you create an extraordinary business and an awesome life, be inspired by this fellow...

http://video.stumbleupon.com/?s=ithct48cqw&i=ufcchmyxqsuj9vwsemax

Thanks, Robert, for passing this along.

"Some think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go."
~Sylvia Robinson

xo$, Ellen

Neither cold, nor sleet, nor ice...can stop The Challenge

2008-02-16T12:22:00.005-06:00

Greetings, Dear Challengers!

It's funny how things work out. While our official call was cut short - ICY weather wreaks havoc on phone lines! - the change of plan allowed me to spend some time on the phone with many Challengers individually. I am INSPIRED by you! I know what I know...what YOU bring to the program is new and delightfully energizing. It is exciting to see The Bare Bones Biz Plan through the lens of your Mission and Vision. Now...you are Building the Team. Wow!

Remember to write your team members a love note. Thank them for their help. Thank YOU for playing with me as you grow your extraordinary business!

"I do the very best I know how - the very best I can; and mean to keep doing so until the end. If the end brings me out all right, what is said against me won't amount to anything. If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference."
~Abraham Lincoln

Love, peace, $$$,

Ellen

PS Get ready...Week 3 - Making Money - can be a wild adventure! Looking forward to our visit Monday, 2.18.2008 at 3 pm central time. "See" you on the Teleseminar call!

PPS If you want to add a comment, click on the hot link comment below this post! xo$, Ellen

Challenges and Challengers! Building the Team...

2008-02-11T18:10:00.000-06:00

Greetings!

Well...even with the best of Plans, stuff happens. So sorry about the phone snafu today! I was enjoying our call. Good input from the Challengers! Terrific work building your Plans. We'll post what we captured in our recording on the password-accessed Challenge page. And, I will do my best to contact you individually this week to check on your homework. Continue to send it over to ellen@barebonesbiz.com Give me a day or two to respond. Keep go go going on your Biz Plan Binder!

Have fun with the Building the Team exercises. The Org Chart exercise can be very powerful. Your name may be in multiple boxes (or ALL of them!) Consider what you could hand off moving forward. Every business, even General Electric, started with one person and a dream. Wherever you want to go...you can get there from where you are.

Love, peace, $$$,

Ellen
ellen@barebonesbiz.com

An hour a day...can ROCK your world! The Challenge update...

2008-02-11T11:53:00.000-06:00

Greetings, Dear Challengers,

An hour a day...spent on building your Biz Plan...can revolutionize your world and help you create and extraordinary, profitable business. Now, you may want to work on the Biz Plan more than an hour a day. Knock yourself out. :) And, some exercises may not get finished in the hour allotted. Leave them incomplete and move on to the next exercise. You can come back to them.

This hour is the moment to climb off the "hamster wheel" and think about what you really, really want...and how to make it happen.

"Thoughts become things." - Albert Einstein? :)

"See" you on the call!

xo$, Ellen

Atta girl, Stacy...Mission and Vision...

2008-02-09T07:11:00.000-06:00

Greetings, Challengers,

Nice work, Stacy! These statements...the Vision, the Mission...are intended to inspire YOU. There are many definitions of these two words, Vision and Mission, in the business world. The way I define them in The Bare Bones Biz Plan...Mission is the WHY, and the Vision is the overarching GOAL. Stacy, accordingly, you might reverse your statements. What you have now for your Mission, call your Vision and vise versa.

That's a small tweak. The most important thing...do these statement inspire YOU?

A friend of mine, Simon Sinek, says that the WHY is what creates an amazing, extraordianary business because the passion you feel for the WHY attracts passionate team members and 'raving fan' customers.

Be inspired to make your business...and your life...extraordinary!

xoxo$, Ellen