GoalBlog.com

Exciting Announcement: Our Blog Has Moved !

2007-07-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

In order to bring you the optimum blog experience, we have relocated our blog to our main site.

We are bringing you

more posts
more features
more videos
more tips
more of everything you need to reach your goals

You can access all posts and all archives here:

http://www.GoalGuru.com/blog

Be sure to subscribe to the feed via the new site and chime in and share your thoughts.

We love to hear from you!

Live Your Dreams,

Jill :)

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Your Defining Moments

2007-06-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

Throughout history, every human being at some point in their life is faced with at least one pivotal life changing experience.

Some will even experience a series of events in their lifetime that change the course of their personal history forever.

I call those experiences your defining moments.

Defining moments are when a transformation or radical shift occurs inside you and you are never the same afterwards.

Your defining moments may occur upon meeting a pivotal person such as a mentor or when you lock eyes with your soulmate or your spouse for the first time. Perhaps it is when you become a parent, face an illness or experience the loss of a loved one.

Quite often, your defining moments are thrust upon you unexpectedly. You are going about your day to day life when something happens that causes a shift.

For others, there is another type of defining moment.

The type of moment that originates from within by making a clear, conscious decision.

A decision that originates with the desire for change.

For Rosa Parks, it was on a bus in the south.

Her defining moment altered the course of American history.

For Napoleon Hill it was through the study of success.

His defining moment lives on to this day in the timeless lessons and books he gifted us.

For Rhonda Byrne, it was the commitment to realize her Goal of making a movie (The Secret).

Her defining moment left a monumental imprint on the modern day personal growth industry.

For Mother Teresa, it was to devote her life to serving the poorest of the poor.

Her defining moment led her to a Nobel Peace Prize and a legacy of contribution on a global level.

The one thing each of those legendary figures has in common is this.

Decision.

They made a conscious decision to make a contribution beyond themselves.

They set their Goal.

They committed.

They took the necessary actions, no matter what, to see it through.

You see, you have the same ability to consciously create your own defining moments any time you want.

Don't sit around and wait for life to send you that defining moment.

Create it by taking a stand for what you believe in, for who you want to become and what you want to give and contribute to the world.

If you could give, be, have, do and become anything you want, what would that be?

What is your legacy?

The best way to predict the future is to create it.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Everything I Know About Business I Learned from My Mama

2007-06-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

Not a day goes by without someone asking me what book I am currently reading.

I am an advocate of reading at least one hour per day, every single day.

I am currently reading this hilarious down home guide to business by Tim Knox. Tim is a successful internet entrepreneur and radio host and I am thoroughly enjoying this easy read.

Oh, and for a limited time, when you grab the book through this link, you will have access to over $4,137 in instant bonuses.

http://www.goalguru.com/recommends/TimsMama

Live Your Dreams,

Jill

The Dynamic Power of Discipline

2007-06-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

"There are two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons." -Jim Rohn
============

The Power of Discipline
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I used to feel threatened by discipline.

In my youth, my greatest passion was art and my ability to create a masterpiece was based purely on spontaneous inspiration, which didn't always jive with discipline.

I used to think that too much discipline would interfere with my creativity, or minimize my energy and motivation.

That was one of many limiting beliefs that held me back for a time.

As time goes on, my appreciation for discipline grows, especially when it comes to Goal Setting.

Let's look at the definition

Discipline: training that develops self control, efficiency, etc.

The fact is that discipline is a powerful force and there are times in life that you absolutely must employ it in order to reach your Goals.

For example, I started running again a few weeks ago after a long hiatus. My Goal was to work up to a capacity of running 3 to 4 miles per day for fun 4 times per week.

Because I was rusty, the only way for me to achieve that Goal, to build up my endurance and expand my ability to run longer distances, was through discipline. Start small and consistently increase my capacity.

I had to start with walking and work up to being able to jog slowly for short distances and then add longer distances.

In the past month I have logged about 70 miles of running and walking. It wouldn't have worked if I tried to do all 70 miles in one day out of the blue because true conditioning comes from consistency and strategic graduation of frequency, duration and intensity.

Three to four times per week, I had to create a new discipline of walking or jogging 1, 2, 3 and then 4 miles. I had to work up to it and get out and do it even when I didn't feel like it.

But because I was committed to being consistent and disciplined, I quickly worked my way from walking to jogging and gradually was able to increase the distance.

I conditioned my muscles, joints and respiratory system to accomodate the new demands by starting with small steps and increasing in gradual increments. I understood prior to beginning that this was part of the process. I defined my Goal and stayed focused.

As you would imagine, it was difficult at first. I was huffing and puffing and praying just to be able to cover a couple of miles at a snails pace.

At times it was uncomfortable.

At times it was painful. Muscles when not used atrophy. My muscles were not accustomed to those demands at that level of intensity. The only way to condition them is to do a little and incrementally increase the demand and duration gradually over time.

Rushing it could cause an injury, therefore consistency is the key element, which comes down to discipline.

"We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons." -Jim Rohn

Some people when going after their Goals, quit or turn back at the first sight of pain not realizing that the pain or discomfort is a price that must be paid.

The short term pain was worth it to experience the long term gain of achieving my Goal.

What was difficult in the beginning is much easier now thanks to discipline.

Your action step:

Think of a Goal in your own life that requires a similar application of discipline and take the next step.

Live Your Dreams

Jill Koenig

http://www.goalguru.com/

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist. A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv andradio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking engagements.
==============

Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask that you include our byline and let us know where the article will be appearing

Working at Home? Here are 10 Ways to Be More Productive

2007-06-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

by Alexandria K. Brown, “The E-zine Queen”

Ah, working at home... Visions of leisurely days, conference calls in comfy sweatpants, increased productivity with fewer interruptions. But the distinctions between work life and home life soon blur. You really should throw some laundry in the wash before you write that proposal. You have an hour before a meeting: Should you balance your books or clean the kitchen? And remember to call that client back right after you empty the cat box.

Welcome to the real world of working at home: unforeseen distractions, a lack of structured time, and sometimes a perceived loss of identity. But don't give up the dream just yet! By putting into place a few simple ideas, you can reap more of the rewards of working at home. Based on my experiences and those of my associates, here are 10 simple ways to help you stay on track.

1. Separate Your Space.

Keep a separate, distinct work area in your home. (This is especially difficult if you're living and working in a shoebox studio, like I was when I started my business in New York City!) If you don't have a separate room, at least define an area, and know that when you're in it, you're in "work mode."

2. Structure Your Time.

As your business and personal time mesh, it's more important than ever to structure your day. For example, if you regularly take a walk or go to the gym, try to do it every day at the same time. Value that personal appointment with yourself — even when you're very busy. It will actually help you keep your business on track! I like to get up early and work until noon, then I take a few hours off to enjoy lunch, do some reading, and take my daily jog on the beach. Then I'm back at my desk at 4:00 until who knows when!

3. Outsource All You Can.

When I began my business, I made the mistake of acting as my own courier service. I soon learned how much time I was wasting by frequently visiting clients just to pick things up and drop them off. Whenever you start thinking, "Well I can just do that myself," STOP. Streamline your business, making everything as automatic as possible. Use outside services to stay focused on your *real work*. Get accounts with an overnight delivery service, messenger service, virtual assistant (VA), bookkeeper, etc. Save your energy for your brilliant ideas! : )

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage.

In-person meetings are very valuable when appropriate, but schedule them sparingly. Try to do most of your business via phone, fax, and e-mail using the best equipment you can afford. For most home-based entrepreneurs, when you're out of the office, you're NOT making money. So it's important that you can communicate flawlessly from where you are. And PLEASE do us all a favor and get separate lines/services for your phone, fax, and Internet! No one likes getting a busy signal.

(BONUS TIP: If your phone company offers voicemail, get it. Not only will your outgoing message sound more professional, but if you're on an important call and don't want to be disturbed, other callers can still leave you a message.)

5. Group Your Errands.

Try to group your meetings and errands together to minimize your out-of-office time. Make a list in the morning of all the outside tasks you need done for the day, and attempt to complete them in one fell swoop. Even better, do what I do and designate just one day a week as your "blitz" day for errands and meetings. Plus, then you only need to get dressed up one day a week! : )

6. Stay Focused.

Make your workspace off-limits to other roommates or family members when you're working. For you animal lovers, this may go for pets as well. (My cat Francine gets *very* jealous when I'm not giving her complete attention!) Keep all personal paperwork such as bills, magazines, and to-do lists out of sight, so they won't distract you from your projects.

7. Beware of Yappers.

Many of your friends and family will be immediately delighted when they learn that you're working at home. They picture you lounging on the couch, eating potato chips, and waiting for their calls. When they call you simply to chat, politely remind them that you're working, and ask them if you can call them back after your day is over. It may take them a while, but they'll eventually get the idea.

8. Work With Your Moods.

Keep track of your moods and productivity compared with the time of day. For example, if you find you're more alert in the morning, use this time to make important calls and do your creative work. Take advantage of your natural cycles. If you feel better after an afternoon nap, go for it! (I'm a BIG proponent of the catnap. In fact, I may start a support group.)

9. Suit Yourself.

To bring out your best work, make your environment perfect for YOU. How do you work best? With plenty of breaks, or with no interruptions? In silence, or with some light music in the background? On a cushy couch and coffee table, or at a business desk in an ergonomic chair? (My friends thought I was nuts when I spent $750 on my Herman Miller Aeron chair, but they quickly understood why once they sat in it! And my spine thanks me every day.)

Also, find some places you can do work when you need a change of scenery. How about the library, the park, or your neighborhood coffee shop? When I need to do serious reading, thinking, or editing, I take my work outside to the beach. The sea air, sunshine, and soothing waves help me think much more clearly.

10. Break for People.

Feeling sluggish, lonely, or moody? Arrange for at least one social break during the week. (I aim for two or three.) Schedule breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even just coffee with a client, vendor, or friend. Join a business networking group, or sign-up for social activities such as dance class or recreational sports league. Don't go into hermit mode — it can be self-destructive!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Alexandria K. Brown, “The E-zine Queen,” is author of the award-winning manual, “Boost Business With Your Own E-zine.” To learn more about her book and sign up for more FREE tips like these, visit her site at http://www.goalguru.com/recommends/EzineQueen

Monday Momentum: The Best Way to Begin Your Week

2007-06-11T09:41:00.000-07:00

Quote for the day:

"If it's easy to do, it's easy not to do." -Jim Rohn

===============

Monday Momentum: The Best Way to Begin Your Week
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

Let me ask you, how did you begin your day today?

And how do you approach your week?

With positive determination and strength, eager to seize the day and opportunities before you?

Or with apprehension, dreading all you have to do?

Do you guide the direction of your week based upon your Goals?

Or do the circumstances of the week sweep you off track leaving you feeling like there's never enough time?

I learned very quickly that Mondays are a crucial day.

Some people are going to have a rough week simply because theyhave not decided to create an amazing one starting right now,today.

Your Goal for Mondays should be to create as much momentum asyou possibly can towards completing your Goals and objectives,creating measurable progress, advancing your mission, giving asmuch as you can and taking a bite out of life.

I call it "Monday Momentum."

Why?

Because Monday sets the tone for the remainder of the week.

When you create momentum, it is actually easier to do what needsto be done later and the energy that your momentum createsactually carries you through.

Momentum breeds Momentum.

Momentum feeds your energy.

Momentum is contagious.

Here are tips for creating Monday Momentum:

* Plan your entire week on paper in advance on Sunday evening.

* Get up a little earlier Monday mornings.

* Listen to an uplifting motivational or educational audio. http://www.TheTimeCommandments.com is a great one to get yourhead on straight to take on the week with focus, clarity andenthusiasm. (spaced repetition is one of the most powerfullearning strategies known to man)

* Get your workout in early in the morning. (this will energizeyou to take on the day and you can even do this while you arelistening to the audio)

* Look at your Goals. Rewrite them.

* Drink lots of water and be sure to follow healthy diet andnutrition (http://www.diets101.com) to keep your energy upthroughout the day.

The beginning of anything is always a crucial time.

The same applies to your week.

The first hour in the morning is the rudder of your day.

No one should be hitting the snooze button on the alarm clock.

You should be popping out of bed like bread pops out of thetoaster!

When you get off to a great start on Monday morning, the rest ofthe week will follow and you will breeze through the rest of theweek with vitality and vigor.

What you do with your time and what time of day you do it iscritical to understand in relation to Time Management. High performing men and women consistently apply this secret and advance rapidly in life.

And Time Management is as much about having the right prioritiesand energy to create an amazing day full of momentum to buildupon, which will lead to an amazing week, which leads to anamazing month, which leads to an amazing year, which leads to anamazing life... follow me?

Create a new habit of generating Monday Momentum.

What will it cost you if you don't?

http://www.TheTimeCommandments.com

Become invigorated.

Become unstoppable.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an
expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH your
untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Lose up to 30 lbs. Dr Recommended, Natural
http://www.Diets101.com

==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:
http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments
==============

Have you seen The Secret?Learn how Joe Vitale co star of The
Secret went from homeless to Millionaire by using The Law of
Attraction http://www.GoalGuru.com/makerswealth

==============
Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year NewLife!
The year round program that helps you reach your Goals:
http://www.goalguru.com/products

The Power of Concentration

2007-06-05T16:45:00.000-07:00

This is remarkable.

This kind of climb requires 100% focus and concentration.

I love the point when he says, "it's either do or not do."

Running Your Own Race

2007-06-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Quote for the Day:

"Success is a peace of mind which is a direct result

of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort

to do the best of which you are capable."

-Coach John Wooden

==============

Running Your Own Race

By Jill Koenig

Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

When I was a teenager I volunteered to work the water station at a 10k (6.2 mile) race.

It was called the "Heaven Can Wait" 10 K run and iroically, it was sponsored by the local cemetery.

My job was to pass out water to the runners. I remember being so excited to see all the different kinds of people who passed by and grabbed a cup of water. Some ran past, some walked past and a few wheeled past.

I saw so many types of people doing it, I thought maybe I can do it too!

So the next year I signed up for the race and gave it a shot.

Back then I didn't do much to prepare except jog around my neighborhood. I never tracked how far I jogged, I just ran around.

I had no time goals for the race, no specialized training, no game plan, nothing.

Needless to say that I prepare differently when I run races today, but back then my only goal was to finish.

On the day of the race, it was incredibly hot and humid. I remember struggling at about the 5th mile, thinking, "I must be crazy, why did I do this? What was I thinking? And at one point, I said, "I am never doing this again!"

Have you ever felt that way about something? You eagerly undertake a goal and in the midst of it comes a moment of struggle, and you realize it is much harder than you imagined it would be?

That first 10 k race was quite an experience. I jogged, I walked, I jogged and I walked. At times, I didn't know if I could finish.

Then came a defining moment.

At one point near the end, a 70 year old man ran past me, very very fast, and I felt embarrassed that I was 50 years younger than he and I couldn't even keep up with him.

But then I realized something.

He was running his race and I was running mine.

He had different capacities, experience, training and goals for himself. I had mine. (remember my goal was merely to finish).

How often in life do we compare ourselves to others and feel disappointed in ourselves when we really shouldn't?

After a minute, it hit me that this was a lesson I could draw from. I learned something about myself in that moment. I turned my embarrassment into inspiration. I decided that I would not give up on running races, in fact I would run even more races and I would learn how to train and prepare properly and one day I would be one of those 70 year olds who was still running.

I am so glad I didn't give up on running. Today it is an incredible source of joy in my life. I have run several races since then, 5ks 10ks and I run purely for fun. I have studied running books, made friendships with other runners and I can report that I love it now more than ever.

In life we all have those moments where we compare ourselves to others. It's only natural. Don't allow those moments disempower you. Turn them into motivation and let them inspire you. Use them to show you what is possible.

Every struggle is rich with opportunity.

You define your own race when you define your own Goals.

With the proper preparation and conditioning, you can improve your results to achieve anything you want.

You decide your race and you decide your own pace.

Rarely in life will your destiny be determined by one little race.

Life is a series of races.

There are lessons in every race. There are life lessons to be learned every single day.

If you don't win the race, but you get the lesson, and grow, you are truly a success.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist. A
best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an
expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH your
untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:
http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments
==============

Have you seen The Secret?Learn how Joe Vitale co star of The
Secret went from homeless to Millionaire by using The Law of
Attraction http://www.GoalGuru.com/makerswealth

==============
Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year NewLife!
http://www.goalguru.com/products

Setting Realistic Goals

2007-06-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

I'm sure if you're a serious Goal Setter, at some point you have heard the acronym of S.M.A.R.T. goals.

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Reasonable
Time Bound

That's logical except for one thing.

Most people are not inspired by "Reasonable" Goals.

And who decides what is reasonable?

Most of the Goals that I set out to achieve last year were completely UNreasonable.

I wrote two highly acclaimed books and created two audio programs in a span of less than six months. I also partnered with other leaders and contributed to dozens of books, programs and projects. I started a new business from scratch and achieved outrageous results. This is the first time that I am publicly sharing that for much of that time I was providing around the clock care for a sick relative, squeezing in my work in between the demands of their care.

So why am I telling you this now?

Because it was "UNrealistic" to pursue some of the goals I set.

It was outrageous.

It was ... I.N.S.A.N.E.

Inspiring
Noble
Stretching
Ambitious
Nourishing
Empowering

I understood that even in the face of struggle, I always have a choice. I could let go of my deepest desires or I could embrace them and find comfort in them.

I did have to change some time tables. But I held tight to my Goals and dreams.

Many times I was only able to do a little towards their advancement, but I always did something. Every single day. And those little somethings added up and accumulated into BIG results.

I didn't let anyone else tell me what was "realistic."

Other people don't know my capacity, my determination, my dreams, my motivation, my mission in life, my destiny.

And part of that destiny is growth. Perseverance. Overcoming obstacles. I used to be afraid to be uncomfortable. I would never grow if I only did what was comfortable, what was easy. I found the power that lies within doing the difficult, embracing a challenge, feeling the fear and doing it anyways. You cannot live your dreams when you are "reasonable."

Do you think Bill Gates, Oprah, Tiger Woods, YouTube, Ray Kroc, Henry Ford, or Einstein set "realistic" Goals?

Heck NO! People thought they were INSANE!

I found that after you do what is uncomfortable, that thing is no longer uncomfortable. By progressively doing a little more and going beyond, you create a whole new level in your life.

So don't set easy Goals. Set Goals that make you stretch. Set goals that challenge you and force you to grow. Set Goals that motivate you to become more today than you were yesterday. St Goals that make you become extraordinary. Set Goals that scare you. Set Goals that make you feel ALIVE. Set Goals that are compelling and be willing to do the work.

Set some UNrealistic Goals.

Set some INSANE Goals.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist. A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome toreprint this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simplyask that you include our byline and let us know where thearticle will be appearing.
==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life: http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments
==============

Have you seen The Secret?Learn how Joe Vitale co star of The Secret went from homeless to Millionaire by using The Law of Attraction http://www.GoalGuru.com/makerswealth

==============
Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year NewLife! http://www.goalguru.com/products

Relaxing with Friends

2007-05-29T10:34:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a fantastic weekend.

This is video of sea otters, Milo and Nyac from the
Vancouver Aquarium, holding hands.

Nyac was rescued and cared for after the
Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989.

For sea otters, holding hands is a survival instinct.

Part 2 If You Had Only One Year to Live...

2007-05-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

The response to our last topic was nothing short of remarkable.

So many people wrote me with their answers to what they would do if they were diagnosed with a life threatening disease and told they had one year to live.

I received hundreds of emails from people asking me what my answer was.

This is what I would do:

I would do exactly what I am doing now, except for one thing...

I would not give up on living.

I would continue to fight to have a long, healthy life.

I would seek additional opinions from a mutlitude of medical (traditional and non traditional) resources.

I would invest extra time, energy and resources into becoming healthy.

Because of this and because so many of you wrote me asking for tips how to obtain absolute health and wellness, increase energy and lose weight, I have teamed up with the Team of Experts at Diets101.com to launch a brand new 10 Week Bootcamp.

If you want more energy, better nutrition, increased mental clarity, or to lose 10, 50 or even 100+ pounds, this program is designed just for you.

I will be hosting an introductory Teleseminar and you're invited!

http://www.Diets101.com

Watch this video. This is a man you may have heard of who was also diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and told he had 3-6 months to live and fought for his life.

Remember to register for http://www.Diets101.com

Space is limited.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

If You Had One Year to Live...

2007-05-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I was reading a true story today about a 62 year old man from England who was told by his Doctors he had terminal pancreatic cancer and had only one year to live.

It got me thinking about a question I ask myself from time to time.

Whenever I am coaching someone through a time of struggle, I also ask them this same question.

Here is the question:

If I only had one year to live, I would _______________

Think about what you would do.

Back to the gentleman from England who was told he had one year to live.

This is what he did.

He quit his job, sold his car, his clothes and spent his life savings on hotels, expensive restaurants and holidays. He said, "If you're on death row, enjoy it."

By the way, one year after his diagnosis, the Doctors revised the diagnosis. He did not have terminal pancreatis, he had pancreatitis, a nonfatal ailment.

(another reason to take responsibility for getting other opinions and research a variety of treatments - Doctors make mistakes too).

So what was the answer to your question?

If I had only one year to live, I would ______________

What would you do?

Spend more time with your family? Immerse yourself in your friends? Write a book? Travel the world? Give your time and money to charity? Party like a rock star?

It's quite possible what you state for your answers to the question embody what you treasure most in life and what you should be doing right now, or at the very least working towards.

Would your answer change if you knew you had 6 months to live? Five years? Ten years?

It is important to think about this variety of time perspective when you think about your Goals.

None of us knows when our time will come.

But we can direct our destiny today. So don't wait until you have a doctor predicting your demise to pursue your passions or revel in your loved ones.

Don't wait until the end is near to go after your dreams, to live fully.

Make sure if you have a dream, that you are giving it your very best effort every day of your life.

You don't want to die with your dreams still inside you.

Savor each moment.

Treasure each day.

Tell your loved ones what they mean to you every day.

Love with all your might.

Seize the day...

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.goalguru.com/

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she isan expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management andBusiness Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies athttp://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv andradio guest available for interviews and corporate speakingengagements.

==============

Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprintthis article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply askthat you include our byline and let us know where the articlewill be appearing.

==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments

==============

Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year New Life!http://www.goalguru.com/products

The Power of Commitment

2007-05-01T13:13:00.000-07:00

"We only regard those unions as real examples of love and real marriages in which a fixed and unalterable decision has been taken. If men or women contemplate an escape, they do not collect all their powers for the task. In none of the serious and important tasks of life do we arrange such a "getaway." We cannot love and be limited." Alfred Adler

============

The Power of Commitment
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

The number one reason people don't reach their goals is because they never really committed to them in the first place.

Let's begin by looking at the word commit.

Definition:

Commit: to bind, as by a promise: pledge: entrust, consign, perform

Too often people use the word "committed" rather loosely when they are referring to their goals. For example, a person will use the word committed when the reality is they are merely "interested." The difference in the meanings between the two words is enormous.

Committed does not mean "interested."

Committed does not mean to "try."

To commit means to do and to keep doing, and to keep doing, and to keep doing until completed, until you have succeeded.

The larger your goal is, the longer it is going to take to reach your outcome and the greater the commitment it will require. The longer it is going to take to achieve the goal, the more time and opportunities there are for things to happen that invite you to veer off course from your goal.

To succeed, you must learn to sustain your drive, and focus on your goal without distraction.

Commitment is to your dreams what fuel is to an automobile.

You wouldn't expect a car to move forward without gasoline? Would you?

Of course not.

Then how do you expect your dreams to be realized without your absolute commitment?

You cannot be ambiguous about your dreams.

If you are 99% invested, you're not truly committed. 99% is not enough.

There is no power in 99%

Committed is 100% and nothing less.

Nothing magical ever happens without your commitment.

Would you want to be in a marriage with someone who is not 100% committed? What about 99% faithful? 99% honest?

How much fun do you think that would be?

Greatness happens when you are truly committed to something or someone. People around you can feel it. Your burning desire is contagious. Your determination is infectious.

Not only do others become inspired to help you and support you, but they also feel more inspired to go after their own dreams. The collective effect of that type of synergy can move mountains.

The number one reason people don't reach their goals is because they never really committed to them in the first place.

Committed people don't quit.

Even the best planning cannot predict every obstacle. Sure you can foresee the possibility of some bumps in the road when things don't go as planned, but are you committed to find the ways around them when those pesky problems arise?

People who are not committed are always looking for the exit door and because of that, they will never find the solution, which is often right in front of their face.

Where focus goes energy flows.

Your mind can only focus on one thing at a time.

Focus on the solution. Focus on the goal.

Become a solution oriented person.

The human will is one of the most powerful forces in the world. And where there's a will, there's a way. If you have the will, the commitment, you will have the perseverance, the determination, and you will find the way.

In the times when you are terrified, let your commitment be greater.

Focus on your commitment.

There are millions of ideas and inventions that are sitting on a shelf or in someone's attic or even worse, in a grave somewhere because someone gave up. Maybe they were one more action, one more day or one person away from success, but they quit instead. The world will be forever deprived of that thing, that gift that was placed in them that only they could bring.

Perhaps it was a song, a book, a movie, a lover, a painting, a company or something that might have changed the world for the better. We look at the Bill Gates, the Thomas Edisons and the Oprahs of the world and we think they had a higher intelligence or luck. What they were/are is COMMITTED. They had gifts, ideas and talents and persisted. While en route to their vision, they attracted and teamed up with other great minds, people who could help propel that vision forward. When something didn't go as planned, they never considered quitting, ever.

When the hours were long and the money was short, their passion and drive sustained them through every adversity.

Most people want a guarantee before they will invest themselves. So they wait. They stop giving. They hope. They sit frozen in fear. They want proof in advance that there will be results and then they will commit. (so they never get the results, they sit on the fence and the opportunity passes them by).

Leaders commit FIRST and make the way. They back it up with their actions. They ensure the results they desire by the depth of their commitment, their promises, their resolve and their deliberate actions.

Your persistence is your measure of faith in yourself.

What goals and dreams can you embark upon or renew with 100% commitment?

Live Your Dreams!

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

How to Unleash the Power of Vision and Realize Your Dreams

2007-04-16T06:29:00.000-07:00

Quote for the day:

Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born. -Dale Turner

============

How to Unleash the Power of Vision and Realize Your Dreams
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I don't know about you, but when I was a child in elementary school, I was taught that humans have five basic senses:

Sight, Hearing, Taste, Smell and Touch

As I grew as a spiritual being and observed myself and the world around me, I became aware that I had many senses beyond those five.

Senses such as Imagination, Intuition, Heart, Vision and many more.

First let me talk about the basic sense of Sight.

Sight is the ability to see a scene, situation, circumstance and the surroundings as they appear at hand before you in this present moment. Sight usually describes what you can see literally with your own two eyes.

In order to reach your Goals in life, and enjoy the journey, there is another sense you absolutely must empower...

That Sense is...

Vision

You see Sight only allows you to see the present as it "appears" and sometimes the way you perceive something is not the way it truly is or will be in the future.

This is vital to understand when you are faced with the inevitable challenges in life. When you make a mistake, an error in judgement, face a challenge, a problem or even experience misunderstandings with people in your life it is critical to empower your sense of Vision to look beyond the initial "appearance."

Appearances can be deceiving.

Have you ever gone to look for something in the refrigerator and could not find it, but later someone else found it in plain sight? It was there all along. There are times in life when we are unable to see the forest for the trees. We get so caught up in something (usually negative) that we cannot see the obvious or take in the beauty that is right in front of our face. It's there, but we will not allow ourselves to see it.

But the beauty is there. It always is.

Sometimes we're flat out wrong, mistaken or the situation is being misunderstood. Sometimes we are not willing to take another look from a different perspective. Sometimes we're overwhelmed by a challenge. But if all you do is focus on the appearance, the problem, or what you think you "see," you will never work through it or get beyond it.

Your current capacity of your sense of Vision is tested and revealed most clearly when you are in the midst of a crisis.

The greater the challenge, the more you will need to tap into your sense of Vision.

Often what you see depends on your attitude, beliefs and life philosophy. And that can be improved upon over time if you work on yourself.

Here's one empowering philosophy to help you establish a positive Vision:

The greater the challenge, the greater the opportunity.

I have seen amazing relationships torn apart by lack of Vision. I have seen people divorce, abandon businesses and quit on life in the face of a struggle that was only a temporary setback. I have seen people give up on their dreams because they could not see beyond the moment, or because they perceived something inaccurately in a moment of crisis or fear.

Vision is a choice that allows you view the challenge, or problem, as a gift, as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Vision is fueled gratitude. Vision tells you that the current situation is only temporary. Vision allows you to look within. Vision allows you to see your contribution to the situation. Vision allows you to look beyond the present. Vision allows you to experience positive emotions beyond the discomfort you currently feel. Vision allows you to create a positive outcome. Vision provides you opportunities to try new approaches to bring about the outcome you truly desire.

Most people who are struggling are caught up or stuck in tiny battles because they can only "see" what something "appears" to be at the moment. In war and in life, there are many battles. Sight only reveals the current battle at hand.

Vision allows you to comprehend that you do not need to win every little battle in order to win the war. Most people never get beyond the smaller battles. They get stuck there because they are only using their sense of Sight.

When one comes from a place of Sight, it is usually from reaction. You are reacting to a situation, often unconsciously. Usually from old conditioning. Often from fear and from limiting beliefs.

When you are experiencing Anger, Resentment, Blame, Fear and Anxiety, you are in a state of Sight. Those negative emotions can literally blind you from seeing the beauty right in front of you just like looking for that thing in the fridge.

When one comes from a place of Vision, it is from a place of proactive insightful balance, wisdom, love, compassion, responsibility and introspection.

When you are experiencing Love, Hope, Forgiveness, Responsibility, Optimism, Possibility, etc you are in a state of Vision.

Which is more fun to live in?

Which state is more resourceful? Which state allows you to attract more love and abundance? Which state gives you a feeling of more control? Which state brings more gratitude? Which state is more empowering?

Great problem solvers are able to tap into their sense of Vision. It has become a habit for them. Their happiness is not dependent on winning every battle. The understand that they need those battles to learn lessons that will serve them in the future. They understand that by harnessing their sense of Vision, they can positively affect the ultimate outcome they seek in the larger picture.

The way to Supercharge Vision is to blend it with positive emotions such as Faith, Hope, Love, Forgiveness and Optimism. Vision heals. Vision solves. Vision builds. Vision creates. Vision empowers. Vision unites. Vision blesses the one who utilizes it and everyone around you.

Vision shows you what is possible.

Vision is what enables a Michelangelo to transform a blank canvas into a masterpiece.

Vision is what enables a Walt Disney to keep on keeping on despite being turned down for financing by hundreds of banks when his pursuing his dream.

Vision is what enables an Elton John to see a piano keyboard and with his touch and create a beautiful song.

Vision is what enables a Steve Wynn to transform a sparse desert into a magical paradise.

So ask yourself, what problems have you been stuck in a limited state of Sight? What circumstance "appeared" hopeless that you can revisit with a new set of eyes?

How could you transform it by tapping into the Power of Vision?

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Roots

2007-04-13T18:43:00.000-07:00

Today is a very special day for someone I admire.

My friend Greg Reid is about to release his labor of love,
an empowering movie along the lines of "What The Bleep" and
"The Secret."

It's being called

http://www.TheWishMovie.com

I asked Greg to share a powerful story I think we can all
relate to. And he is inviting you to watch the trailer and

grab your advance copy of the DVD before it is released

to the rest of the world.

Enjoy!

Jill Koenig

============

Roots

By Greg Reid

A few years back I remember sitting with my mentor over lunch
while I poured my heart out in frustration.

It seemed like no matter how hard I tried, I just could not
break through to many of those I was coaching and working with.

Like most leaders, I too wanted the best for everyone, a panacea
attitude I suppose.

No matter how hard I taught, shared, or even at times attempted
to control other people's behavior for their own good (sound
like someone you know?) It drove me mad wondering why they could
not, or would not apply the messages given to them.

My lunch guest began to laugh, understanding all to well where I
was coming from as he leaned into me and whispered this single
word…

Roots.

What? I asked?

"Roots", he repeated and went on to tell me something that
changed my life and they way I worked with people from that day
forward.

"It's like this" he said " When you see someone, lets
say they are down and out, even in the gutter, you want to go
over and pick them up, dust them off, and get their life in
order and send them on their way to a new life of happiness."

"Absolutely!" I shouted back

"Well that is why you fail" he responded as he sat back in
his chair taking a sip of coffee..

"I don't get it, I just want to help" I muttered.

"Yes, I understand that – yet you are missing the key
ingredient." Said the wiser of us two.

I just sat there with look like a confused puppy with my head
tilted to the side.

"Roots" He continued… "It works like this… first they
have to WANT your help. Say you find someone that is need of
change, they can even be in the situation you mentioned before,
really down and out - only rather than trying to help everyone
– look for that person who is bleeding from their hands."

Again, I must have looked at him with a state confusion.

"You see, these people are different. Remember, it doesn't
matter where people are at, coming from or been, we've all had
hard times in our lives, but its the people who understand the
roots philosophy that are the ones who truly end up going from
where they are, to where they want to be."

I inquired "Why are they bleeding?"

"Because they don't want to be in that situation any
longer" He mentored " These people are bleeding from their
hands because they are reaching out of that place, the
metaphorical gutter so to speak and are grabbing and a hand full
of roots, and are pulling themselves out."

"Now rather than waste time, attempting to (FIX) everyone as
you were doing before, just stand behind those who are reaching
for the roots and offer encouraging words and guide them where
to grab hold of the next set of roots, and eventually they will
do something special and pull THEMSELVES out, and then have the
tools to teach others to do the same."

Pretty good advice huh? And since that time, and applying this
principal, I have gone from a 3o% success rate with working with
people to over 80%, it's a simple golden rule – God helps
those who help themselves - and we can be a small factor in his
handiwork by simply being the guide.

What you have in your hands is the roadmap of time tested ideas,
suggestion and wisdoms offered by some of today's greatest
leaders in personal development.

The true test is how we will put these suggestions to work, for
ourselves as well as of the betterment of others.

Will we continue attempting to help everyone, or will seek out
those who are ready for the transformation?

The choice is yours, we have the tools, now it's up to us to
put them to work.

Best wishes and what ever you do…..
Keep smilin'…….

Greg S. Reid

http://www.TheWishMovie.com

==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:

http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments

==============

Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year New Life!

http://www.goalguru.com/products

==============

The Secret Behind The Secret

2007-04-06T16:23:00.000-07:00

I’m sure you’ve heard of the wildly popular film and
best-selling book, The Secret, by now.

The stars of the show have appeared everywhere from CNN to
Oprah, Larry King to Show Biz Tonight and The New York Times.

But what nobody has shared yet is the REAL story.

So when I found out my friends at Healthy Wealthy nWise were
providing an authorized, intimate portrait with creator and
executive producer, Rhonda Byrne, I had to check it out. By the
way, they’re calling it The Story Behind The Secret.

Rhonda is using this interview to share her side of the story
about The Secret and the way it is gaining massive momentum on
the way to bringing Joy to Billions. Just as she and her team
intended it would back in 2004.

http://www.goalguru.com/thesecret

What you haven't heard in all the media frenzy is Rhonda Byrne's
intimate REAL story behind The Secret that must be told.

In this heart-felt one-on-one interview, Marci Shimoff
(co-author of the mega-best-seller Chicken Soup for the Woman's
Soul & star of The Secret) will ask Rhonda many of your burning
questions that weren't asked in the mainstream media.

If you wanted to know ...
• the inside story behind the creation and unfolding of The
Secret that the other guys glossed over...
• the unique never-before-revealed way she used the principles
of The Secret herself to turn The Secret into a global phenomenon
(6 million people in Ghana, Africa who would never have been able
to experience this wisdom were able to watch the secret for FREE
because of this principle...)
• about the surprising plans for The Secret II…
Then this interview is a must.

http://www.goalguru.com/thesecret

So here is the really great part, when I talked to my friends
over at Healthy Wealthy nWise and they told me I could invite
you to attend the LIVE Story Behind The Secret Interview as my
guest – for no charge!

Your ticket is waiting for you at…

http://www.goalguru.com/thesecret

Now the publicity for this interview is massive so space is very
limited. With millions of promotional emails going out and a
massive publicity campaign rolling out the capacity for the call
will be maxed out fast.

So to collect your ticket and secure your seat to the Live Story
Behind The Secret interview go to

http://www.goalguru.com/thesecret

Log-in with your name and email address and follow the simple
instructions.

To your greatest success,

Jill Koenig

GoalGuru.com

PS – This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be on the
line LIVE with Rhonda Byrne, the Creator of the wildly popular
film and best-selling book, The Secret. I’ve arranged for you
to attend as my guest, and you can pick up your complimentary
ticket at

http://www.goalguru.com/thesecret

Have You Ever Lost Sight of Your Goals?

2007-04-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

Earlier today someone wrote this to me,

"I set a Goal one year ago and it's floating away. Life just
got in the way. Can you help me?"

Yes, I can help and I thought haven't we all experienced this
at one time or another?

The bigger the Goal, the longer the time it's going to take to
achieve and the more opportunities there will be for you to
become distracted.

So here's a simple formula to create momentum and keep it
going.

1) Commit.

There is no try.

There is only do or not do.

2) Identify the highly personal and emotional reasons why
you MUST achieve this Goal. The more reasons you have, the
more likely it is you will succeed.

3) Take at least one action today towards it's attainment.

Sometimes we plan and plan and plan and never get started.

So get started and plan after you have taken one action on it.

4) Take at least one action every single day and read the
article below titled "A Goal A Day"

Live Your Dreams,

Jill

===================
Quote for the day:

"Pain is only temporary. Giving up is forever."

===================

A Goal A Day

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

How do you eat an elephant?

One bite at a time.

When I look at my list of 101 Goals, some of them seem downright
daunting. Especially the long term goals. Some people have
absolutely amazing ideas but they abandon their goal because it
seems too overwhelming and they quit because they become
discouraged.

They have an achievable, attainable goal, they just don't know
how to break it down into bite sized pieces.

For example: If you have a goal to start a business of your own,
but you currently work a full time job, this approach is
critical. If a larger goal seems to big or too overwhelming, and
you really want it, the following is a great approach to keep you
going after it.

Break down your large goal into many smaller bite sized goals.

I call this approach the A Goal A Day method.

It is very simple.

You set and complete one small goal each day, everyday which
will advance you towards your goal. This removes the feeling of
being overwhelmed with your major goals.

The focus is not on everything being perfect, the focus is on
taking progressive steps.

On a foggy day, sometimes you can only see one block ahead of
you at a time. However, if you walk one block forward, you can
see one block further and if you walk another block, you can see
another block further -until you get where you are going. If you
do this one block at a time for ten blocks, you just walked one
mile. It didn't seem like a lot because you broke it down into
smaller steps.

You are not always going to have a complete detailed plan from
start to finish for every goal when you are first getting
started. That's okay. If you set your goals using this method,
the accumulative effect will bring you closer each day and you
will have genuine momentum. You can revise your plan as you go
along.

Remember, this method requires at least one ACTION each day.
Tasks such as cleaning your office or reading a book ARE
necessary and important and make you feel good and keep you
motivated, but they are not exactly the type of action that is
going to propel you forward. You won't be able to see a
measurable result.

You can clean your office, read books every day and never be
any closer to your goal. Busy work or is notwhat we are talking
about. I know people who are extremely busy but they never make
any progress towards their goals. They are just filling time
aka killing time. So complete your result producing, momentum
gaining goal for a given day and then clean your office after
you're done.

For best results, plan your Goal A Day in advance, at least one
week or perhaps even one month ahead. The reason for that is
because if you wake up in the morning and then try to figure out
what you are going to do, you are going to pick whatever is easy
instead of what is truly going to advance you.

You can complete more than one goal a day, but the point to this
approach is to complete AT LEAST one Goal per day. You will also
be creating a new discipline. Research shows that it takes
anywhere from 3 to 4 weeks (21 days) to create a new habit.

This approach also counteracts discouragement since there will
be no stagnation that accompanies lack of consistent action (aka
procrastination). This approach will provide you the ever
important daily sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. In
addition, this approach will help you enjoy the journey of
pursuing your dreams.

Often a Coach can assist you with creating a plan that will save
you time and money and help you with a plan that enables you to
prioritize your activities and achieve your goal in the fastest
time. GoalGuru.com has several Coaching programs available.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Have you seen The Secret?
Learn how Joe Vitale co star of The Secret went from homeless
to Millionaire by using The Law of Attraction

http://www.GoalGuru.com/makerswealth

==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:

http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments

==============

Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year New Life!

http://www.goalguru.com/products

Results or Excuses?

2007-03-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Quote for the day:

"Personal strength in all areas of life comes as a result of
consistently pressing against what is pressing against you."

-L.T. Money

===================

Results or Excuses?
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I am surrounded by a great group of friends who constantly
encourage me and challenge me to stretch myself.

Many of these friends have entered my life as a direct result of
launching GoalGuru.com, which I embarked upon during a very
challenging time in my life.

I do believe in the law of attraction. Goal oriented people
attract other Goal oriented people.

Somehow you and I attracted each other, didn't we? :)

One Goal oriented friend created a Goal Band for a group of us.

On the wristband he inscribed the simple phrase:

"Results or Excuses?"

You see, we have an understanding within this circle. When we
are discussing the inevitable challenges that arise in life, our
obligation is to ask the question:

"Results or Excuses? You can't have both, which one will you
choose?"

It is not intended to attack, ridicule or criticize, it is an
invitation to take another look at the challenge you are
currently faced with in a new light, with a new consciousness. A
perspective that your challenge may be of opportunity instead of
one of an obstacle.

In all great pursuits, there will be some resistance.

Sometimes when we first encounter resistance, it feels
insurmountable.

There is temptation to give up, to quit.

And sometimes if we catch ourselves, and take another look, we
will find that we truly can work around it, overcome it, try
another approach and rise above it, even breakthrough it
entirely and reach a whole new level of success.

Sometimes that resistance is merely our own fear and self doubt.

And most of the time, fear is what arises just prior to the time
your greatest desires are about to be realized.

It's almost always uncomfortable to do something you've never
done before. And sometimes that fear is enough to cause a person
to turn back, procrastinate or give up, when if they would just
continue on, give a little more, go a little further, get a
little uncomfortable... grow and stretch, they would triumph.

For example:

There are millions of people in the world who had an idea or a
dream but never made the effort to pursue it because they were
"broke." They were afraid. It might not work. What a great
excuse.

There are others in identical circumstances who made the
extraordinary effort to pursue a dream BECAUSE they were
"broke." They were afraid too. But... they pursued it anyways,
made the effort, succeeded and created Results.

For one person, being broke was an "excuse" to not attempt.

For another it is a "Reason" to rise above their circumstances
and create a "Result."

It's just a simple question.

And sometimes a simple question you ask yourself is all it
takes to give yourself a new empowering distinction.

A fresh set of eyes.

You are the captain of your ship, designer
of your destiny.

Always.

So the next time you are faced with a challenge that "appears"
insurmountable, ask yourself

"Results or Excuses, which one will you choose?"

Create your own empowering Goal Band at
http://www.GoalGuru.com/products

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.goalguru.com/

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Lessons from the Oscars: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

2007-02-26T15:44:00.000-08:00

Quote of the Day:

"God has something in store for me. I don't know
where or when, but something big is coming."

-Jennifer Hudson,
Oscar Winner Best Supporting Actress

==============
Have you seen The Secret?

Learn how Joe Vitale co star of The Secret
went from homeless to Millionaire using
The Law of Attraction.

http://www.GoalGuru.com/makerswealth

===============

Lessons from the Oscars: Turning Obstacles to Opportunities

By Jill Koenig

Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

For as long as I can remember, I have loved watching the Oscars.
I enjoy seeing the best of the best being recognized by their
peers and I love watching people live their dreams.

I was rooting for my hometown girl and fellow south sider,
Jennifer Hudson who was awarded the Best Supporting Actress
Oscar for her performance in Dream Girls.

Jennifer is an amazing example of persistence, following your
passion and turning obstacles into opportunities.

At the age of 7, Jennifer began singing in her church choir,
following in the example of her late grandmother, Julia Kate Hudson,
who sang in the choir. With a 5 octave range, Jennifer attributes
everything, including her vocal ability to her grandmother who
encouraged her to pursue her dreams.

Before Idol, in 2003, Jennifer was signed to a 7 month contract to
perform on a Disney cruise playing the role of "Calliope." When
that ended, she decided not to renew her contract and instead
flew to Atlanta to try out for American Idol. She left a sure
thing in order to take a chance at a bigger dream. The prize for
the winner of Idol is a record contract.

Jennifer reached 7th out of 70,000 Idol hopefuls. In typical
Simon Cowell fashion, he sent her away with the stern words,
"You're out of your depth, I don't think you're capable of doing
any better." Ouch. However, others such as Barry Manilow and
Elton John recognized her amazing abilities. When season 3 of
Idol ended, she went on tour with the top 12 finalists, and
was grateful for having the opportunity.

For many people, that would be it, that would be enough of an
obstacle, their one shot, and the end of their dream.

But not for Jennifer Hudson. For her it would be the
beginning.

She did not lose sight of her goals. She said, "God has
something in store for me. I don't know where or when but
something big is coming."

She went on and continued to pursue her dream of singing and
sharing her voice with the world.

She was next chosen from 782 highly talented actors/singers for
the role of Effie White in Dreamgirls for which she received the
Best Supporting Actress Oscar. Jennifer said that losing on
American Idol was a blessing because if she had won, she would
have gone down a different path, which would not have allowed
for parts such as the one in Dreamgirls.

When Oprah Winfrey watched Jennifer's performance in Dreamgirls,
she stood up and said, "Girl, go get your Oscar."

Greatness recognizes Greatness.

Three years ago she was singing on a cruise ship.

She now has a record deal with Clive Davis.

Big Voice. Big Goals. Big Dreams.

The Lesson: When you don't get what you want, it means
something bigger and better is right around the corner if you
are willing to persist and turn that obstacle into an
opportunity.

Keep on keeping on.

Twenty five years old.

First movie role. First nomination. First Oscar.

"Look at what God can do." JH

Imagine what you can do if you apply the same faith and
persistence to your goals.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Have you seen The Secret?
Learn how Joe Vitale co star of The Secret went from homeless
to Millionaire by using The Law of Attraction

http://www.GoalGuru.com/makerswealth

==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:

http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments

==============

Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year New Life!

http://www.goalguru.com/products

==============

Valentine's Day Thoughts on Love

2007-02-14T11:51:00.000-08:00

Quote for the Day:

"Fear thrives on safety. Love thrives on risk."

-Rhonda Britten

==============

Thoughts on Love

There is no difficulty that enough love will not conquer;

No disease that enough love will not heal;

No door that enough love will not open;

No gulf that enough love will not bridge;

No wall that enough love will not throw down;

No sin that enough love will not redeem...

It makes no difference how deeply seated may be the trouble;

How hopeless the outlook; how muddled the tangle; how great the mistake.

A sufficient realization of love will dissolve it all.

If only you could love enough you would be

the happiest and most powerful being in the world...

~Emmet Fox~

Love yourself today.

Give Love today.

Be unapologetic and fearless in expressing your love.

Be Love...

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and
radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking
engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:

http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments

==============

Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year New Life!

http://www.goalguru.com/products

How Goals Ignite the Law of Attraction

2007-02-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

Quote for the day:

You become what you think about." -Earl Nightingale

===========

How Goals Ignite the Law of Attraction
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

This week I feature a question submitted by a GoalGuru reader.

This week's question:

Q: What is the difference between the Law of Attraction and Goal Setting?

A: There is not so much a difference as the two principles work hand in hand.

In fact, Goal Setting is the first step in activating the Law of Attraction.

In order to empower the Law of Attraction, you must take the first action, which is to decide with positive intention, exactly what you want in clear, concise detail.

This step, this action, within the Law of AttrACTION is the ignitor that activates the process.

When I ask people what they want, most respond with a list of all the things they DON'T want.

Most people invest more energy and thought on what they DON'T want than what they DO want.

And that is what they attract. More of what they DON'T want.

Most people focus their thoughts and energies on their fears rather then focusing on gratitude for what and whom has already blessed them, and their heart's deepest desires.

So what's wrong with that?

The Law of Attraction mandates a universal law:

You become what you think about.

The more you dwell upon what you don't want, the more you are empowering the negative emotions.

Let me clarify how focusing on what you DON'T want works against you within the Law of Attraction.

Where focus goes, energy flows.

Let me say that again.

Where focus goes, energy flows.

When you are focusing all of your thoughts and attention on the things you fear, that is what you will manifest, create, and attract more of.

You have a choice.

You can focus on the problem or you can focus on the solutions.

When you focus all of your thoughts and attention on your problems or blame others, that is what you will manifest and attract more of. You are actually actively creating more of what you DON'T want.

You cannot manifest joy and create your highest destiny when your thoughts and actions are consumed with fear, anxiety, problems, complaints, blame, worries and all of the other negatives that present themselves to you during a given day.

You always have a choice how and where to direct your thoughts and energy.

If your dominant emotions are fear, anger, resentment, worry and blame, that is what you will attract more of. When you are experiencing those negative emotions, you stop giving. You no longer breathe life into your dreams. When in those states, you are not making positive, joyful contributions to your dreams. Those negative thoughts and emotions actually repel what you desire. Negative emotions suck the life out of your Goals.

To combat those negatives, and instantly transform pain into pleasure, the solution is to choose the positive.

Focus on the solutions. Focus on what you can joyfully do to create positive changes.

The surest way out of any rut is to accept complete responsibility for your circumstances and joyfully identify the positive changes you can make within yourself. Then take action. When you can joyfully, freely choose to make positive contributions, everything around you will change.

If you want to experience more abundance, express more gratitude. Give abundantly.

If you want to experience more love, give more love.

If you want more intimacy, give it, create it, nurture it.

Get grateful for all that you have.

Focus on how blessed you are.

Remember that you have responsibilities within the Law of Attraction.

There are actions you must consistently take.

If focus goes where energy flows, then focus more on your Goals than you do on your problems. Focus more on your Goals than you do on your fears.

Focus on what you DO want.

Focus on what and whom you are grateful for.

Focus on your most cherished, beautiful, treasured deepest desires.

Focus on the positive.

You become what you think about.

Focus on the Goal.

What beautiful, worthy Goal do you want to ignite by expressing more gratitude?

What vision or dream do you have that you can inject with positive, loving thoughts and actions?

Give it your all and watch it manifest.
Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.goalguru.com/

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and radio
guest available for interviews and corporate speaking engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Work less, earn more and gain control over your life:

http://www.goalguru.com/timecommandments

==============

Make 2007 Your Breakout Year! New Year New Life!

http://www.goalguru.com/products

Top New Years Resolutions for 2007 from Around the World

2007-01-17T18:13:00.000-08:00

According to ACNielsen, striking a balance between work and play, exercising more and avoiding disastrous relationships topped the New Years Resolution lists for 2007.

Fifty-six percent of people planned on making a New Years Resolution.

Consumers in 46 countries were surveyed and more than half who participated said they wanted to work less in 2007.

* Sixty percent of North Americans who planned to make a resolution plan to exercise more in 2007.

* One in three US consumers planned to go on a diet.

* One in three hope to achieve a better work life balance.

* One in five smokers said they would cut down or quit smoking.

What this says is that people sincerely desire to improve the quality of their life. However, next year most people will make the same resolutions all over again.

Why?

Because making a resolution is simply the first step in the process.

The word resolution is derived from "resolve" which means to decide.

Most people treat resolutions like a wish, not a decision.

What's the difference you ask?

Commitment.

Making the commitment followed by creating a plan, taking consistent, persistent action and following through.

You see in order to change your life, you must do the uncomfortable.

Creating a change requires you to make different choices, to take different actions, to create new habits which are different than what you've been doing - making it uncomfortable.

So as we are now well into the new year, how are you doing on your Resolutions?

Did you go back to your old habits, back to doing what is comfortable?

Change demands you get uncomfortable.

It's the reason I created the New Year, New Life! program.

It's uncomfortable going to bed early and waking up early so you can work out.

It's uncomfortable listening to motivational audios instead of watching the news.

It's uncomfortable taking the time to shop for and prepare healthy, nutritious meals.

It's uncomfortable when you're trying to resist that urge to smoke a cigarette.

The shift will occur and the change will manifest when you get more excited about getting uncomfortable than you are about continuing the old habit that you are trying to change.

Learn to enjoy getting uncomfortable.

Get addicted to getting uncomfortable.

It only takes 30 days to create a new habit.

After that time, what becomes uncomfortable is the old habit you left behind that no longer serves you.

That's 30 little days.

One day at a time.

What do you need to get uncomfortable about in order to transform your life?

New Year, New Life

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and dynamic Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her strategies are utilized by Fortune 500 companies and small businesses worldwide. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal Strategies and get your FREE Goal Setting Ebook at http://www.goalguru.com/

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high-energy TV and radio guest available for interviews, teleseminars and corporate speaking engagements.

================
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask that you include our byline and let us know where the article will be appearing.
==============

New Year, New Life! How to Make 2007 Your Best Year Ever!

2007-01-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

Quote for the day:

"Excellence is not an act, but a habit."

-Aristotle

=================

Just Released!

As featured on The Fox News Channel:

New Year New Life! How to Make 2007 Your Best Year Ever!

http://www.GoalGuru.com/products

=================

Happy New Year from everyone at GoalGuru.com!

If you have not done so already, I encourage you to take a few moments and make a list of your highlights from 2006, big and small.

I call it the year in review.

I would like to share some of mine with you.

2006 was by far personally one of the most incredible years of my life.

I am not sharing this with you to boast. I am sharing this with you to encourage you and support you in your own Goals. I am sharing this with you because what we teach works. It will work for you too when you commit to mastering The Power of Goals.

The growth and results that we experienced at GoalGuru.com are remarkable.

Before we tell you what's in store for us (us meaning you and I together) in 2007,

Let's take a look back at 2006 and a few of the highlights we experienced:

*GoalGuru.com expanded our reach across the globe, now serving beautiful people from 56 countries

*GoalGuru.com now serves Fortune 500 companies, Government bodies, (including the military), sports teams, educational institutions from kindergarten to universities, charitable organizations, small businesses, entrepreneurs, network marketing organizations, families and every conceivable demographic.

*we increased our support team to serve you better

*we acquired an amazing new web design team

*and thanks to them, days ago we launched our brand new web site, now with video!

(check it out: http://www.GoalGuru.com) we are adding content daily

*GoalGuru.com was featured by an endless stream of the highest respected news organizations (newspaper, radio, national television outlets)

*we Introduced the revolutionary Time/Life Management program The Time Commandments! Ebook and mp3 audios

*we introduced the customized "Goal Band" to the world. A Goal Band is a silicon wrist band on which you can imprint your own message and wear day and night.

(get it at http://www.goalguru.com/products)

*and days ago we just released the highly acclaimed program

"New Year New Life! How to Make 2007 Your Best Year Ever!

Ebook and mp3 combo

And that encompasses only some of the highlights from the last 6 months of the year!

The best is yet to come...

We are wholeheartedly dedicated and grateful for the opportunity to serve you.

None of this would be possible without you. The driving force behind GoalGuru.com is you. We read every single email and incorporate your feedback. Thank You!

So what lies ahead for GoalGuru.com in 2007?

Here is a tiny glimpse of what's in store:

More power packed teleseminars (check your email, the next call is January 8th)

More New products!

hint: get ready to get physical and get your rear in gear in the new year

hint: get ready to get motivated and stay "plugged in" to your goals all year long

More keynote speeches and seminars around the world

Get ready to learn more, be more, have more, attract more and do more in 2007 and enjoy every moment of the journey.

Remember the extraordinary growth, success and results we experience at GoalGuru.com are the result of applying the same strategies and methods we teach. (The Time Commandments, New Year, New Life, etc)

Commit to staying "plugged in" to all of the resources we offer (newsletters, products, teleseminars, etc) and learn to master The Power of Goals in your own endeavors.

http://www.GoalGuru.com/products

Give yourself the gift of those programs and you will experience similar results!

Make 2007 your BREAKOUT year!

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and dynamic Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her strategies are utilized by Fortune 500 companies and small businesses worldwide. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal Strategies and get your FREE Goal Setting Ebook at http://www.goalguru.com/

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high-energy TV and radio guest available for interviews, teleseminars and corporate speaking engagements.

================

Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

2007-01-04T11:30:00.000-08:00

The Youngest Grocer In America

When you find your calling, you must act quickly and decisively. Here is one example:

New Video and Some Thoughts on New Years Resolutions

2006-12-29T16:06:00.000-08:00

Quote for the Day:

"Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's
coming attractions."

-Albert Einstein

==========

I was fortunate enough to spend some time at the Fox News studio
today.

You can watch the interview by clicking on the link at

http://www.GoalGuru.com

What a world class experience. I was surrounded by
world class professionals and treated like a celebrity.

The reality is that I am one motivated person who believes that
within each of us lies a reservoir of magnificent infinite
potential. My life's purpose is to help you unveil it and
unleash it.

Most of you reading this have not even discovered (or uncovered)
your greatest gifts and talents yet.

But you will.

If you decide to.

Somewhere on your list of Goals for 2007, make room for the
Goal of discovering and developing your gifts.

The path for each of you as individuals will vary, but
I know for sure you will find your purpose when you master the
#1 life skill of harnessing The Power of Goals.

All day today, everyone I encountered spoke of New Years
Resolutions with a total lack of confidence.

That is because you are conditioned to fail.

Anytime 95% of the population experiences something, the seed is
planted somewhere in the mind that you might experience it too.

I am here to plant a different seed.

A seed of expectation that 2007 WILL be your best year ever.

I have the knowledge, experience and tools to help you become
one of the other 5%.

One of the 5% who succeed.

All you have to do is commit to learning a simple formula and
creating some new habits.

On December 31st I will release the highly anticipated program

"New Year New Life! How to Make 2007 Your Best Year Ever"

You can grab a copy at the pre release price if you act quickly.

http://www.GoalGuru.com/products

I want you to have a world class year.

Once you master the formula, you can achieve any goal you set
and commit to.

In a few days, you will be given a fresh start, a blank canvas
in the form of a new year, and you are the artist.

Create a masterpiece.

New Year New Life

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru" is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A best selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her Goal in life is to help you UNLEASH
your untapped potential. Learn cutting edge Goal Strategies at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and radio
guest available for interviews and corporate speaking engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.

Catch Goal Guru Jill Koenig on The Fox News Channel Friday Dec 29th

2006-12-26T09:40:00.000-08:00

Are you preparing to set some New Years Resolutions?

Research shows that 95% of people abandon their Resolutions by the end of January.

On Friday, December 29th, Goal Guru Jill Koenig will be featured on The Fox News Channel showing you

"How to Keep Your New Years Resolutions"

They will be talking about the new Goal Setting program

"New Year New Life! How to make 2007 Your Best Year Ever"

For schedule visit:

http://www.foxnews.com/fnctv/

11am Eastern
10am Central
9 am Mountain
8 am Pacific

See you there!

Jill

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Seasons Greetings and an Important Story About 54 Words, 67 Notes

2006-12-24T15:14:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings! I wanted to extend my sincere gratitude and wish you a warm and wonderful Holiday Season.

I also want to take this opportunity to tell you about a legendary Holiday song that almost never was.

Back in 1939, a Russian Jewish immigrant songwriter was away for an extended time, working on a movie in Beverly Hills.

Legend has it he was homesick while separated from his wife and children, and at that time, wrote some parts of a song and then stored away the incomplete, half written work in a "song trunk."

After two years had passed, he dusted off the half written song and put the finishing touches on it.

He called it the best song he's ever written.

It was a simple song.

54 words.

67 notes.

The songwriter was Irving Berlin.

The song was White Christmas.

It became the most sold song in the world.

To this day, it is an enduring symbol of Christmas, the spirit of the Holiday season and evokes warm, loving memories.

It has been recorded countless times by countless artists and featured in countless movies.

Ivring Berlin could neither read or write musical notation but still managed to compose over 1000 other songs, which are considered the foundation of our American songbook.

Think about it.

The biggest selling song in history, the definitive Christmas song, written by a Russian Jewish immigrant who had no exposure to the Christmas holiday as a child.

The biggest selling song in history written by someone who couldn't read or write musical notation.

Don't ever let anyone tell you you can't do something.

What unfinished "song," idea or project do you have stored away somewhere, perhaps in a drawer, in a box, or even in your own imagination?

What dream lives in your heart that you long to share with the world?

What gifts have you been blessed with that you're not giving yet?

Perhaps the time wasn't right, or you were not quite ready to step into your own greatness yet.

Perhaps now is the time.

Perhaps 2007 is the year you are meant to bring it to life.

What dreams could you reignite if you dusted them off and brought them to life?

Now is your time.

As we head into the 2007, you are given the chance to begin anew...

Any dream.

A New Year brings New Life...

New Year, New Life!

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Maintain Laser Focus on Your Goals by Wearing a Goal Band

2006-12-11T14:04:00.000-08:00

Quote for the day:

"The victory of success is half won when one gains the habit of
setting goals and achieving them. Even the most tedious chore
will become endurable as you parade through each day convinced
that every task, no matter how menial or boring, brings you
closer to achieving your dreams."

-Og Mandino

==================

Maintain Focus on Your Goals by Wearing a Goal Band
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker

Do you remember the specific Resolutions you made at the
beginning of last year? Most people don't.

Most people set it and forget it.

They'll set the same Resolutions in the same way, and get the
same disappointing results year after year. Life gets busy and
they get swept away. Most Resolutions are forgotten as quickly
as they are made.

I know, the same thing used to happen to me until I created new
strategies and came up with very easy ways to keep my focus.

First of all I don't make Resolutions. I set Goals that I am
committed to. I set Goals that I am passionate about and I
create plans for their attainment. I take action each and every
single day towards their attainment. I do very specific things
to maintain my focus.

I utilize a series of fun tools that serve as reminders of my
Goals. I would like to share one of them with you today.

Back in the old days when someone wanted to remember something,
they would tie a string to their finger so they would have a
constant reminder. The purpose was, if it's on your hand, you
see it so you don't forget.

Well for most people it's not practical to walk around with
strings on your fingers so I came up with a product called a
Goal Band.

A Goal Band is a colored bracelet you wear on your wrist as a
constant reminder of your Goal. You leave it on 24 hours a day,
7 days a week until you achieve your Goal.

With today's technology, you can create your own custom Goal
Band inscribed with your own unique Goal.

For example, if you want to lose weight and your target weight
is 135 lbs, I recommend you imprint the words "I happily weigh
135 lbs!" There is enough room for 24 letters including spaces.

Get creative and state your Goal using positive language in the
present tense.

They work! Companies buy them in bulk to empower their employees
to strive for specific Goals. You can print any message on them
and they won't wear out! They are made of durable, flexible
silicon and come in any color.

It's a powerful tool. No matter where I am, no matter what I am
doing, it's on my wrist and it's always working on my behalf.
Not a day goes by that someone doesn't ask me what my colored
wrist band is for. And that's part of the power... I get to tell
them about my Goal, I get to talk about it again and again.

I recommend you wear it next to your watch, so that every time
you look at the time, you see the Goal Band.

The subconscious mind is always working whether you're at work,
at play, during the day or in your sleep.

You don't have to be conscious of your Goal Band, but it is
working on your dreams as long as you are wearing it.

We wear wedding bands to symbolize our commitment to our life
mate, why wouldn't we wear a reminder of our commitment to our
most cherished Goals?

Create your own Goal Band to maintain your focus and wear it
proudly!

Get your own customized Goal Band now!

http://www.goalguru.com/products

Live Your Dreams

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006 Jill Koenig

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the creator of the Goal Band, a
customized bracelet you wear to remind you of your Goal and
maintain laser focus.Her passion in life is helping you Achieve
your Goals and Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting
Edge Goal Strategies and get your FREE ebook at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

The Ten T's That Guarantee TOTAL New Years Resolution Success!

2006-12-01T21:02:00.000-08:00

By Jill Koenig Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

With Today's fast paced lifestyle, it is crucial to embrace and implement simple strategies for achievement and fulfillment. Your job in this life is to follow your bliss, design your destiny and consciously direct the steering wheel of your life.

This is the time of year that we look back at where we've been and look ahead at where we want to be. We set some New Years Resolutions, well intentioned, with the hopes of creating positive changes in our lives. Unfortunately, research shows that as many as 95% of people abandon their resolutions by the end of January, disgusted and discouraged! It doesn't have to be that way.

“If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they might have planned for you? Not much.”

-Jim Rohn

If you don't implement a system for setting and achieving Goals, the winds that blow in life will sweep you off course and into a life of reaction. Having a plan you can integrate for each goal you set will ensure you are in a proactive state instead of a reactive state.

Being proactive enables you to sleep peacefully at night and awaken each day knowing that you are actively heading in the direction you want to go, developing your greatness and living your dreams. Having a system for manifesting your goals over and over builds confidence and demolishes fear.

Plug your highest priority New Years Resolutions into this Template and put them to the Test. If you don't have all of these elements, it is not likely you will achieve them successfully. A Resolution is not a mere hope or a wish... it's a Goal that you are committed to with plans for attainment that inspire and motivate you to take consistent, persistent, decisive action.

Ten T's that Guarantee Total New Years Resolution Success:

1. THIRST: You must have a burning desire for something, originating beyond mere hopes and ideas. You must have compelling dreams, a thirst, a hunger and desires that are so inspiring and motivating, they provide you with enough internal drive to fuel you and keep you going when things don't go as planned. The stronger your WHY, the more successful you will be. You must feel a magnetic pull Towards something that is meaningful and significant to you.

2. TARGETS: You must define the Targets, the outcomes, the goals, the destinations clearly and in as much detail as you can. Use your imagination to visualize and experience the deep emotions of what it will feel like when your goal is achieved.

3. TASKS: Working from your Targets and outcomes, work backwards and map out the Tasks, activities and the Things you must do to advance towards your goal. A big goal is actually made up of several smaller goals or Tasks. Do the small Tasks and the big Goal WILL be realized.

4. TIME: It takes Time, a Timetable and effort to bring your dreams to life. It requires consistent, persistent effort. Treat Time as a precious resource and invest it wisely. Create a Timetable and schedule your Tasks in your calendar, creating an action plan, broken down into small, manageable steps with a sequential order so that you know what will be done and when you will do it. As you create your Timetable, your goal becomes Tangible. Every Goal has it's own gestation period.

(for more on Time Management, review The Time Commandments!)

http://www.goalguru.com/products

5. TEAM: Enlist a Team of Talented people in the form of friends, family, coaches, partners, Teachers, mentors, supporters, interns, employees, whatever it takes. The bigger the goal, the more outside support and contributors it will require. The Team you put together can make all the difference in the world. Surround yourself with positive people. When you are Taking Action and committed, people will be compelled to help you.

6. TENACITY: Be Tireless, persistent and unwavering in your commitment. Take 100% responsibility for the results you're getting. Track your results and measure your progress. If you are not happy with your progress and results, take 100% responsibility for changing it. Adjust your plan or Timetable and Tap into your burning desire and act consistently every single day.

7. TRANSCEND: Transcend limitation. Courageously go beyond your comfort zone and propel yourself to new heights. Nothing is impossible and Growth only comes from going beyond and stretching yourself. Trust that anything you can envision and commit to, you can achieve.

8. TREASURE: Treasure the journey. Savor each moment you have been given. Savor the entire experience, the challenges, the growth and the lessons you encounter. Trust that they are there to Teach you and prepare you for future experiences. Trust that you are a vessel of infinite untapped potential. The more grateful you are, the more abundance you will attract.

9. TRIUMPH: Success! Your actions have resulted in the successful realization of your goal! You have followed through on your plan, reached the goal you envisioned, so celebrate your growth and accomplishments! Take time to revel in your achievement.

10. TITHE: Share your blessings with others. Give of your Time, Talents and pocketbook. Teach others your own unique expertise and be Thankful. Give encouragement, it's free to give and priceless to those who receive it. Contribution to others will enrich your life in ways you cannot imagine. Support others in their journey in any way you can. It will come back to you Ten fold. Touch as many people as you can and leave a legacy that lasts a beyond your lifetime.

It takes all of these elements to Transform your hopes and wishes from New Years Resolutions into Results. Take your Resolutions, Transition them into Goals by empowering the Ten T's, get started Today and Take Off to a Totally Thrilling Tomorrow!

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and dynamic Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

Media Requests: Jill Koenig is a dynamic high energy tv and radio guest available for interviews and corporate speaking engagements.

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

How I Turned a Success Study into the Life of My Dreams

2006-11-29T11:28:00.000-08:00

=================

Quote for the day:

"If we become increasingly humble about how little we know,
we may be more eager to search."

- Sir John Templeton

==================

Reminder: Just released!

The Time Commandments! Ebook

Ten Simple Strategies for Taking Control of Your Time in every
area of your life. Make 2007 Your Best Year Ever!

http://www.GoalGuru.com/products

===================

Feature Article

How I Turned a Success Study into the Life of My Dreams
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

When I first set out into business on my own, I quickly learned
that despite my infinite determination to reach my goals and
create a better life, there were huge gaps between where I was
and where I wanted to be.

Someone once told me if you want to be a Success, then study
Successful people.

One of the best things I ever did for myself was join an
organization that brought highly acclaimed mentors and
motivational speakers to speak once a month. I would bring paper
and pen to take notes and a camera in case I had the opportunity
to actually meet the speakers, which I often did. Those pictures
were images of infinite inspiration to me. I cannot begin to
explain the boost it gave me to hang them at my desk and have
them to look at every single day.

The notes I took became the blueprint for a better life.

Once a month I would attend these events, network with
entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and CEO's. There I met some
amazing people, but more importantly, found so much more than I
ever expected. I found the mentors who would help guide me at a
rapid speed to the life I had envisioned for myself.

You see, I spent the first 25 years of my life living amongst
drug dealers and gang bangers, surrounded by poverty and crime.
The messages I saw everyday in that ghetto community were
terrifying. I lost childhood friends to gang shootings and my
mother was almost caught in gang crossfire right in front of our
own house. No one should live that way.

I had to seek out new, positive, empowering messages and role
models if I was ever going to make it out alive. I had to take
complete responsibility for changing my life because no one was
coming to my rescue.

It was up to me.

I needed to go out of my way to get around the kinds of people I
wanted to be like. No one was going to come knocking on my door
and volunteer to mentor me so I had to seek out my own mentors.
I was on a mission.

I found those incredible mentors and was so grateful for their
impact on my life, I vowed to pay it forward and become a mentor
too. :)

Today, there is a place where, no matter where on Earth you
live, you can have access to the kinds of world class leaders
who mentored me. Thanks to the internet, you don't even have to
leave home. You can access their genius via your computer
anytime you want. You can download the lessons to CD's or Ipods
and take them wherever you go!

http://www.SuccessStudy.com

My dreams come true every day because of the commitment and the
investment I made in myself at a time when I had so little to
spend. But I made my own personal development a top priority and
it made all the difference in the world.

I am now a Motivational Speaker who gets invited to come speak
to audiences at the kind of events that change people's lives,
like the ones that changed mine.

I was recently interviewed by Heather Vale, the founder of this
unique organization.

Revealed In This Interview:

The most effective ways to set and achieve your goals.

The power of visualization and visual tools you can use to boost your results.

Easy things you can do to boost your motivation and increase your momentum.

The best thing is, when you become a Gold Member, you get more than access to just my interview, you also get access to interviews with some of my most cherished friends and mentors like:

Vic Johnson

Dr. John Deartini

Jack Canfield

Mark Joyner

and so many more.

As we head into the Holiday Season and begin the new year, the
greatest gift you can give to yourself and the people you love
is for you to become a better person.

Make your own personal development a top priority and I promise
you'll have miraculous results in your life too. You can
literally transform your relationships, your body and your bank
account if you commit to this Success Study.

http://www.SuccessStudy.com

I am not just a guest who was interviewed, I am a living
testament of what personal development and constant self
improvement can do. I still pursue my own Success Study
every single day. I hope you do too.

If you want a better life, become a better you.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show.
Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and
Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal
Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

2006-11-29T11:16:00.000-08:00

Blind guy listens to echos to navigate

It's amazing what we can do if we refuse to accept limitation.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2006-11-23T19:47:00.000-08:00

Quote for the day:

"Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for
everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward
is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your
current situation."

-Brian Tracy

==================

Reminder: Just released!

The Time Commandments! Ebook

Special Thanksgiving Offer for friends of GoalGuru.com
only $ 14.97 until November 27th.

Ten Simple Strategies for Taking Control of Your Time in every
area of your life.

http://www.GoalGuru.com/products

===================

I Am Thankful For You
By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I just want to say Thank YOU.

Thank you for being a friend.

Thank you for investing in yourself by reading the Goal
Newsletters.

Thank you for believing in yourself by taking action and
applying the timeless strategies I share each week.

Thank you for having a hunger for self improvement.

Thank you for being committed to growth.

Thank you for wanting to learn more, be more and give more.

There are people in 23 countries who are reading this
newsletter.

People from a every race, religion and orientation.

People with hope, ambition, compassion and desire for a better
life.

The formula for setting and achieving Goals is the same no
matter where you go.

We are all connected.

The gifts that you have to bring to the world span beyond any
religious, spiritual, economic, social or residential
boundaries. We are all human beings with a passion for creating
a better life and developing more of our untapped human
potential.

Here in America, Thanksgiving is a day when we take time out and
give thanks for our blessings.

People get together with friends and family and reconnect. The
tradition involves sharing food and TIME together.

Some people only do it once a year based on a day that has been
predetermined by the calendar or society.

This Thanksgiving, whether you reside in America or not, whether
you are reuniting with family or not, I want you to start a new
habit of giving thanks today and every single day.

You see, even in the face of your biggest challenge, you are
blessed. The only question is, are you acknowledging your
blessings?

What we have learned about human psychology is that we become
what we think about.

What you focus on grows.

So make a conscious decision to focus on what you are grateful
for everyday.

Make a list (write it down) every single day, of what you are
grateful for. Nothing is too big or too small.

Express your gratitude with whomever it applies.

If you are married and/or have children, find something you are
grateful for each and every day for each individual in your
family and share them together. Expressing your gratitude for
another is the single most important way to transform any
relationship.

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like buying a gift
and not giving it. (Expressing gratitude is FREE)

Think about what you can give to the people around you.

Your habits determine your destiny.

Create a new habit of being grateful and expressing it every
single day.

I am grateful for you.

You inspire me every single day.

Thank YOU!

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show.
Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and
Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal
Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

Design Your Destiny

2006-11-20T12:44:00.000-08:00

Quote for the day:

"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."

- Steve Jobs

Have you noticed around you that expectations are already starting to change?

We are heading into the Holiday Season and this is when I start to hear rumblings about how production declines and things slow down, except for the retailers who magically cash in on the droves of Holiday shoppers.

They say real estate sales drop, momentum drops, business slows, yadda yadda yadda.

That's hogwash.

It doesn't drop for everyone.

It only drops for people who believe that and buy into that mentality.

A lot of people do slack off this time of year. It's crazy.

For the rest of us, this is a time of year of amazing growth and opportunity.

This is the time that I dig in deeper and really pour it on.

Most people fall into a state of complacency between now and January 1st and then they throw together some sloppy "resolutions" out of thin air that they have absolutely no commitment to and no plan for attainment.

I am going to devote the next six weeks to helping you strategize your goals, create plans to achieve them and redesign your life. I am going to show you how to design your destiny starting today!

I am going to give your more tips, more teleseminars, more podcasts, more strategies and more tools to re examine, redefine and redesign your life!

I am going to help you make the the next six weeks a time in your life of re construction and affirmation of the life you know you are truly capable of living.

Are you in or are you in?

Great, let's go!

Let's focus the next six weeks on building momentum and creating new habits to carry into today, tomorrow and the new year. You are going to wake up energized, and hungry to seize the day. You are going to become a lean mean Goal Achieving Machine!

It starts right now.

The first step is to get serious about your time.

The Time Commandments Ebook is the foundation for arranging your life so that your goals and dreams become a priority instead of being an afterthought.

To help you get a head start on programming yourself for success starting NOW, I am making the ebook available for only $ 14.97 until November 27th. Then the price goes up. I love to reward those who take quick decisive action on their dreams.

Get it here:

http://www.goalguru.com/products

I want you to be conscious about how you spend your time over the next six weeks.

It's time to transform your life.

It begins by transforming yourself.

Make the commitment.

Let's go.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A
Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an
expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show.
Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and
Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal
Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.
==============

What if You Could Have 42 Millionaires Spend the Next Week At Your Home or Office?

2006-11-09T12:47:00.000-08:00

*******************************************************
He was named one of the Top 100 Entrepreneurs for the
last 100 years... can you guess who?

>>> http://VirtualSeminarWeek.com/?x=575709
*******************************************************

Some find this question easy, others have no clue how to respond.

You ready?

Here's the question...

***************************************
How do you measure business success?
***************************************
Is it total sales?
Net profit?
Number of employees?
Prestigeous awards and recognition?
What about personal wealth?
It's a challenging thought but there is one person who
would easily qualify as one of America's most
successful entrepreneurs, however you decide to define
business success.

*****************************************************
>>> http://VirtualSeminarWeek.com/?x=575709
*****************************************************

He went...

FROM Poverty & Welfare...TO...one of the 25th
Wealthiest People in America
FROM Homeless...TO... a 12,000 Square Foot Home
FROM Working at a traveling carnival... TO...Being
named National Entrepreneur of the Year...
...AND inducted into the Entrepreneur Hall of Fame...
...AND named one of the top 100 Entrepreneurs in
America for the last 100 years!

*****************************************************
>>> http://VirtualSeminarWeek.com/?x=575709
*****************************************************

It doesn't end there.

He also went...

FROM a High School drop-out...TO... a lawyer, subject
of a Harvard Business School Case Study
FROM a Street gang member...TO... Being awarded a
permanent place in Smithsonian Institute’s National
Museum of American History
FROM riding a city bus...TO...Flying his own $25
million jet aircraft
FROM drawing unemployment...TO...Employing more than
10,000 people

*****************************************************
>>> http://VirtualSeminarWeek.com/?x=575709
*****************************************************

Listen to him share how he did it on Saturday November
11th during a two-hour special presentation... all for
less than $100.

...PLUS...

You'll get access to over 40+ other powerful *LIVE*
presentations from some of today's top business
leaders, trainers, and inspirational luminaries.
It's part of one of the most unique events of 2006
called Virtual Seminar Week.

*****************************************************
>>> http://VirtualSeminarWeek.com/?x=575709
*****************************************************

Here's where it gets even better...
After each presentation you'll even have a chance to
ask questions!

So, have you guessed who our "mystery man" is featured
above?

Find out today and be sure to register while tickets
are available. Go to:

*****************************************************
>>> http://VirtualSeminarWeek.com/?x=575709
*****************************************************

Perhaps I'll hear your question after the presentation!

Take care.

Jill

Who Is Your Millionaire Mentor ?

2006-10-31T08:55:00.000-08:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

There is one key ingredient to success that is often overlooked.

If you are working on your dreams, you might be just one ingredient away from unlocking and unleashing your destiny.

You might be one ingredient away from living your dreams.

You might be one ingredient away from becoming a Millionaire or Multi-Millionaire or even a Billionaire.

This one ingredient often means the difference between taking decades to reach your goals or speeding up the pace of advancement to a matter of days.

That one ingredient is a Mentor.

There are seeds of greatness within you right now, but sometimes it takes the assistance of a Mentor to help you on your way.

I have been blessed to have had many types of mentors throughout my life, from teachers in grade school, to youth service workers in my community, to business people who saw something in me and encouraged me or offered to guide me.

I lived in the same impoverished ghetto as people who went on to join gangs, drop out of school, become addicted to drugs, and many of them are no longer with us. They made different choices. Those people had the same potential within them that I did. But I had mentors to look up to.

I made a decision as a youth, to search out positive Mentors. Not just as a one time thing, but as a lifelong mission. And even though I have gone on to success in mentoring thousands of people, I still Mentor others and I still seek out Mentors.

When mentors appeared, I embraced them and studied them. I read what they told me to read, I went where they told me to go and I did what they told me to do.

What makes a great Mentor?

A great Mentor sees more potential in you than you do in yourself.

A great Mentor can show you the way and point out things you might not otherwise see or be aware of. Sometimes weaknesses, sometimes strengths, sometimes patterns that you unconsciously practice that hold you back.

A great Mentor believes in you.

A great Mentor inspires you.

A great Mentor knows that the same seeds of greatness that were inside them are inside you too.

A great Mentor cultivates and nourishes those seeds, they help you grow.

A great Mentor helps you bridge the gap from where you are now to where you want to be.

A great Mentor Coaches you to breakthrough your limiting beliefs.

I have been invited to be a part of an amazing new movement to bring you some of the greatest Mentors of our lifetime. It is actually one of the most powerful, positive projects I have ever seen and you can be a part of it too.

If you would like to learn from today's most empowering leaders, I urge you to head over to http://www.MillionaireMentor.com and sign up so you can be part of this incredible experience.

I want you to reach your goals. I want you to live your dreams. I want you to have access to the BEST Mentors anywhere in the world.

All you have to do is take the next step.

http://www.MillionaireMentor.com

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

==============
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask that you include our byline and let us know where the article will be appearing.

Five Simple Steps for Achieving Your Goals

2006-10-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig

Here are some simple Goal Strategies I use to reach my goals every time:

1) Decide exactly what you want (write it down)
2) Affirm WHY you want it (the bigger the reason the more internal motivation you are giving yourself) (write them on paper)
3) Define the actions you will need to take to achieve it (on paper)
4) Schedule the actions (in your calendar)
5) Do It! (Follow through and carry out your plan)

It helps if you find images or photos that represent your goal and put them in places you’ll see often (bathroom mirror, briefcase, in your car, on your screensaver, on the refrigerator)

If your goal is a long term goal, break it into smaller goals. Schedule at least one thing to do each day (A Goal A Day). Doing one goal each day will add up and you will create enough momentum to carry you through!

Define your top 10 goals for the year
Define your top 10 goals for the month
Define your top 10 goals for the week

One last thing… rewrite your top 10 list weekly, daily if you can.

Live Your Dreams!

Jill Koenig
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio
Show. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and
Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal
Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.

Problems or Opportunities? How YouTube Created a $1.6 Billion Opportunity

2006-10-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I'm sure you've heard the news that Google reached an agreement to acquire YouTube.com for $ 1.6 Billion US dollars.

Not a bad piece of change for a couple of guys who were started their "little" business on credit cards in a garage.

Yep. It's true.

In fact, YouTube had not even earned a profit yet! Those with a limited vision spoke of YouTube as a failure up to that point. Take note. There are so many numbers that matter in business, and in life as well as your long term view and strategy. More on that later.

What's more interesting is how You Tube was started in the first place.

Back in January 2005, Chard Hurley and Steve Chen , were just a couple of guys who wanted to share some videos they made at a dinner party in San Francisco. Except they had a problem.

There was no easy way to share the video with their friends. The files were too large to send via email and back then there was no easy way to put them online.

So they got to working in their garage on creating solutions to the "problem" (aka opportunity). What emerged is a video sharing site now known as YouTube, which became an internet phenomenon in a matter of months. They provide technology so that anyone with a video file can easily post it online for all the world to see.

From zero to $1.6 Billion in a mere year and a half.

Impressive.

Hurley and Chan are no strangers to adversity. They were among the first 20 hires at PayPal in 1999 and witnessed the Dot Com boom that later bombed. (Hurley designed the logo that PayPal still uses to this day). They watched as tech companies came and went.

"We started this to solve a personal problem," says Hurley. "Now we're creating a new way to reach audiences in an era where the traditional TV time slot doesn't exist anymore."

Back to the skeptics who called YouTube a failure. Remember I said earlier there are a variety of numbers to take into consideration in business.

YouTube went from nothing to 4.2 million monthly visitors to their site within 3 months. YouTube currently captures 45 percent of the online video market. 100 million videos are available on YouTube on any given day and 65,000 new videos are added daily. YouTube now enjoys 20 million unique visitors per month. YouTube is still growing by leaps and bounds.

That's not a failure. That's part of a strategic plan. One that worked out nicely for two guys under 30 who started in their garage a little over a year ago by turning a "problem" into an "opportunity."

"Whether or not something is a problem or an opportunity is determined by your own attitude, approach and perspective." -Jill Koenig

They saw companies rise and they saw companies fall. They had advisors, they sought their own Millionaire Mentors. They invested their time wisely. They saw an opportunity and held tight to their dreams.

Hurley and Chen were rewarded 1.6 million ways for their brilliant perspective and perseverance.

What are some challenges or setbacks you have been faced with that you can turn into opportunities?

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio
Show. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and
Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal
Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprint
this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
that you include our byline and let us know where the article
will be appearing.

Thou Shall Honor Time as a Precious Resource

2006-10-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

================
Quote for today:

“Make each day useful and cheerful and prove that you know the
worth of time by employing it well. Then youth will be happy, old
age without regret and life a beautiful success.”

-Louisa May Alcott

================

Thou Shall Honor Time As a Precious Resource

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

The most precious and valuable resource today is not real
estate, it is not gold, it is not sex, it is not oil or gasoline.

The most precious and valuable resource is time.

Time is more valuable than money.

You can make more money, but you cannot make more time.

Time is perishable, and the decisions you make about how to
spend your time will largely determine the quality of your life.

The decisions you make about how to spend your time will
determine how efficient you are at your work. The decisions you
make about how to spend your time with loved ones will determine
the quality of your life in your relationships.

Time is the great equalizer.

We all have the same 24 hours in a day as everyone else.

No matter how much money you accumulate, you cannot write a
check at the end of your life and purchase more time.

In my quest to discover what makes someone 1000 times more
successful or wealthy or more fulfilled than someone else, I
found many secrets that the leaders of every field already know.

Great leaders are great time managers.

For most people, the vast majority of waking hours are spent at
work. Let me clarify. Most of your LIFE is spent at work.
Therefore it is imperative that you are engaged in work that you
truly love. This doesn’t mean to quit a job you don’t enjoy,
rather get to working on an extra stream of income in the
subject of your passion and start working towards YOUR dreams,
not someone else’s.

The foundation, the philosophy of The Time Commandments is to honor
TIME as a precious resource. This means making a study of
Time Management and Life Management. This means working on
yourself more than you do your business. This means re evaluating
your values and priorities so that you are assured your life
is moving in the direction of your greatest desires. No one can
do this for you. Once you learn this formula for success, you will
gain clarity, confidence, energy and excitement. You will
naturally and effortlessly integrate it into your everyday life.

http://www.TheTimeCommandments.com

You must invest in yourself. Invest time into reading books
and teachings (like this one) and invest in audio programs that
help you learn and grow. Master your time and you will reach your
goals faster than you ever thought possible.

Next, you must follow your bliss.

Your Goals should revolve around your passions.

When you are doing what you love, your work bypasses your brain
and comes directly through the heart. Oprah Winfrey knows this.
Bill Gates knows this. Warren Buffet knows this. Tiger Woods
knows this. Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin knew this. I know
this. In fact, my bliss lies in talking to you right now, and
helping you make positive changes in your life.

How can you incorporate more of what you value, more of what you
love into your daily life?

"If you want to make rapid changes in your life, you must
arrange and design your life so that your GOALS and DREAMS are
at the FOREFRONT of your days, instead of them being an
afterthought." -Jill Koenig

Most people think that following your bliss is something you do
after everything else is done. To experience true joy on a day
to day basis, make a habit of incorporating your greatest loves
into your days everyday.

Don't be like most people and suffer through the day Monday
through Friday and try to squeeze in morsels of fun and joy
during the weekend. You might have to rearrange some things or
even eliminate things to make room for more of what you love
but it is well worth it.

Have you been treating TIME as a precious rescource?

Or are you going to wait until a tragedy, death or illness
gives you a wake up call?

Think of 5 ways you can begin to incorporate your bliss into
your life everyday.

Do one thing today to get started.

Do it now.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio
Show.Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and
Unleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge Goal
Strategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********
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this article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply ask
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will be appearing.

***********

How to Improve Your Concentration

2006-09-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I love American football and I recently caught a game of my favorite team, the Chicago Bears, (3-0) so far this season. I love sports because it's easy to look for and find metaphors between sports, life and business.

The Chicago Bears defense is one of the top rated lineups in the NFL. They are intimidating, intense and dominating.

There was one play in particular that I witnessed Sunday and have seen over and over in football and I see it in life as well.

A wide receiver on the opposing team was wide open and about to catch a pass for an easy first down. He had the ball in his hands... however... he dropped the ball because he was more focused on the impending hit he would receive from the defense after he caught the ball.

He would have easily caught the ball, but there would be a price to be paid afterwards. He knew a hit was coming and he allowed it to distract him from concentrating on the next step. He was looking too far ahead and it prevented him from catching an easy pass.

It is important to know what your next step is at all times. That wide receiver's job is ultimately to catch the football when it is thrown to him. What he does after he catches the football is important, but he must catch the football first in order to gain any yards or progress afterwards. The job of the offense is to gain yards and score points.

People come to me all the time when they have struggles with focus and concentration. I hear it every single day, "I can't concentrate."

The solution is simple, and like any other muscle, you can train your concentration muscles.

How many times in life do you drop the ball and miss an opportunity to progress because you were thinking about or worrying about something that might happen later? You were so busy looking ahead that you missed something amazing that was right in front of you.

Visualizing plants the seeds of greatness into your subconscious. Visualizing your goals and the big picture of it all is something you can do whenever you want. There is a delicate balance between visualizing your future and doing the actions today, right here and now that will lead you progressively to your destiny. There is a healthy balance that must be achieved between these two powers.

What I would like for you to do all day today is ask yourself the question, what is my next step?

What is the next step?

And then I want you to simply focus on it.

Concentrate fully on that one step and completing it. Turn off all background noise, eliminate all distractions and put your blinders on to that one thing you are going to be doing and then do it to completion. If possible, turn off the phone, put a do not disturb sign on your door or cubicle and don't do anything other than what your next step is. Don't check your email, don't turn music on, don't allow yourself to do anything else. Focus 100% on that next step.

The more you practice this, the more efficient you will become, and you will achieve your goals in record time.

This principle is illustrated in detail in my audio program, The Time Commandments! I encourage you to study it and master it. I have broken down thousands of historic universal success principles into Ten Simple Strategies that I apply to my own life and my own business with amazing results. You can go faster than you think you can.

When it comes to your day, your work, your family or your business, define what the next step is that you must focus on and then do it fully and invest all of your attention into it.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is anexpert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management andBusiness Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru RadioShow.Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals andUnleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge GoalStrategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********
Need fresh content for your ezine? You are welcome to reprintthis article on your web site or in your ezine. We simply askthat you include our byline and let us know where the articlewill be appearing.

Visualizing Your Goals

2006-09-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

"Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning." –Gloria Steinem

Because visualization is so easy to do, most people overlook doing it. Most people do not understand the power of the subconscious mind. It's always there inside you just waiting for you to unleash it for good.

Before any revolution can occur in the outside world, it must first occur inside you. Your #1 job in visualization is to believe and be ready to receive.

Every physical manifestation begins with a mental creation. Your ability to take your highest goals and continually hold them in your thoughts with passion, excitement and enthusiasm will cause them to become real.

Most people unconsciously use visualization when they worry about things. They literally make themselves sick by dwelling on the negative things in life over things that will never even happen.

Those precious moments amount to time lost forever.

That was time you could have spend thinking about something more positive and productive. You can train yourself to dwell in possibility, thinking about positive things, like your goals and dreams.

There is a process that increases the level of excitement and intensity so much that you actually feel like you’re there before it even happens. Visualization is a powerful tool.

The ability to FEEL and experience your goals as already having been realized will anchor the emotion of success into your body and into your subconscious mind. Your subconscious mind doesn’t know the difference between a picture in your mind’s eye and what is real outside.

Take yourself deep into the emotion as if you are experiencing your goal and it will energize you. The great athletes and great leaders of the world know that the subconscious mind is the most powerful advantage they have.

It takes so little effort and time to do but it’s the number one most overlooked component to speeding up the process of achievement.

Spend a few moments right now and close your eyes.

Allow yourself to relax. Imagine your goal as if you have already achieved it. Let yourself go there completely. Who is there with you celebrating? You'll know you are getting there when a smile warms your face. The more you do this, the better you'll get at it. You will actually find yourself getting emotional and feeling true joy just thinking about your goal. This is real. You can take these sensations as far as you want for as long as you want any time you wish.

How does it feel to have achieved your goal?

Congratulations!

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. ABest Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is anexpert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management andBusiness Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show.Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals andUnleash your untapped potential. Learn Cutting Edge GoalStrategies and get your FREE ebook at http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********
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Please join Jill Koenig on Fox News Saturday

2006-09-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

Jill Koenig, the Goal Guru, will be appearing on FOX NEWS

Saturday, Sept 16th at 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern.

For details and channels, please consult your local listings or visit

http://www.FoxNews.com

On the red navigation bar at the top of the page, click on "TV"

Then click on Saturday, then Heartland

I will be on the Heartland show with John Kasich

This is more than a national news program. It delves into the deeper issues and
meanings behind the stories that touch people and affect our lives.

We will be paying a special tribute to Steve Irwin and talking about why it is
so important to follow your bliss and Live Your Dreams everyday. We will be
talking about how Steve Irwin invested his time during his 44 years on Earth.
Time is a precious resource. Watch it with your kids.

I hope you can join me.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Positives...Giving Thanks

2006-09-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

In today's fast paced environment, it is so important to be mindful of the things you are grateful for. Not just the big obvious things, but also the simple things and everything in between.

Before you go to bed tonight, think of 10 things you are grateful for today. What are you grateful for today? Who are you grateful for today? What surprises, struggles, expressions or lessons have you received today? At first it might take some time, but seek and you shall find. Write them down.

What if you made this a family practice every day at the dinner table or at bedtime? What if you shared Positive things about each other every single day? Might this affect your family dynamic in a powerful way? You betcha.

Do this simple exercise every day and see how conscious you become of appreciating the simple things.

Here's one example of how easy it is to find reasons to express gratitude.

BlondeMomBlog.com

Set a goal to revel in gratitude.

You will begin to realize how blessed you really are.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Send Me Your Time Management Questions!

2006-09-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, the response already has been overwhelming. I have received hundreds of questions. Keep them coming! I will answer as many as I can on the upcoming FREE Time Management Teleseminar.

Email your most pressing Time Management questions and issues to:

info@TheTimeCommandments.com

I invite you to join me on the call, so be sure to subscribe to my newsletter because that's how I will be delivering the information needed to access the call. I don't want you to miss it.

In honor of the deluge of questions from parents working from home and the hectic start of the new school year, I wanted to share some tips to help you catch your breath and treat yourself.

Here are Aurelia William's
Four easy ways to be good to yourself

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

A Tribute to Crocodile Hunter Stever Irwin

2006-09-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

Like so many people around the World, I was truly stunned to hear the news of the passing of Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter, due to a highly unusual stingray barb to the heart.

I want to share with you somethings you might not have known about Steve.

Steve was raised in a zooalogical environment. His parents founded the Australia Zoo in 1970. Steve spent his entire life around wildlife. He caught his first croc at the age of 8. He did not set out to become a tv personality, it actually happened quite by accident as he was pursuing another goal. Wildlife Conservation.

Steve's first passion in life was Wildlife Conservation.

Irwin said, "That's why I was put on this Earth. That's why I'm here."

Steve was busy with his passion for crocodile conservation, humanely capturing crocs when he had an idea. He wanted to film a documentary using a video camera his father gave him.

Because he was usually working alone, he decided to set up a video camera in a tree to film himself in action so he could share it with his father and his friends. His friends were immediately captivated and he garnered enough support to film his first full documentary, which later inspired his television show, which made him a worldwide star and put a much bigger spotlight on Wildlife Conservation.

Irwin had a larger than life personality. He connected with everyone from young children to adults of all ages. His enthusiasm was contagious. He found a way to entertain while teaching. You know you learn more when you're having fun and you couldn't help but be captivated as Irwin told the story of each creature he featured.

"If you can touch people with wildlife, they will want to save it." -Steve Irwin

One of the most valuable lessons we can learn from Steve Irwin is to follow your bliss and pursue your passions. He lived pursuing his passion, every single day of his life. He met his wife while pursuing his passion (while she was also pursuing hers), his family was integral in his passion and he died pursuing his passion.

One of his friends said, "He lived 10 lifetimes in his 44 years."

"The reason I have been put on this planet is to save wildlife." -Steve Irwin

He considered himself a Wildlife Warrior. Irwin said, "A warrior is someone who is engaged in battle and my battle is Conservation."

If you were touched by Steve Irwin, do something today to honor his mission. Get involved with a conservation group, make a donation, write a letter, talk to your children about it. Find out what you can do with what you have. There is always something you can do. Just do something.

Steve's goal was wildlife Conservation.

Set a goal today to honor your own passion.

Have the courage to develop your own gifts and share them with the world.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. She is the host of the Goal Guru Radio Show. Her passion in life is helping you Achieve your Goals and Unleash your untapped potential. Find out more about her Cutting Edge Goal Strategies at http://www.GoalGuru.com

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**************

How Goals Unleash the Superhero Inside You

2006-08-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig

Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

Within every human being, exists an infinite supply of creativity, strength and wonder.

You are capable of more than you know.

Let me tell you about a real life Superhero I know. His name is Mike Berkson.

Mike Berkson was born a few minutes after his twin brother David, on February 4th, 1989. Shortly after birth, Mike was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Doctors told his parents that he would not be able to talk and he would never be a student in a regular classroom. By the time Mike was 3, he was not only talking up a storm but had a thirst for vocabulary. Mike sets BIG Goals. Mike excels in English and History, is creative in writing short stories and has ambitions in film making.

Mike lives in a Chicago suburb and now attends high school. He loves rap music, Seinfeld reruns, movies, girls, and many other things most teenagers are interested in. Mike is unique in that he has to work around some obstacles in his day to day life that you and I will never be faced with.

Because he is confined to a wheelchair, and has limited use of his arms and legs, he is paired with someone to help him through the day so he can attend school and get the quality of education he deserves. For a few years, my friend Tim was fortunate enough to be paired with Mike and serve as Mike's aid and helper.

Ponder the things you do every day and imagine being physically unable to do them. Tim was responsible for taking notes for Mike, assisting him with eating, the bathroom, transportation and all the things that we do without thinking about.

As Tim and Mike grew closer and Tim became a member of Mike's family, Tim felt a yearning to share with the world Mike's awesome attitude, and how Mike deals with prejudices, ignorance and inconveniences despite his circumstances.

Tim was so inspired by the Superhero within in Mike, that last year he set a goal to write a book about Mike and run 1,200 miles from Florida to Chicago to promote it.

Just one tiny problem... at the time, Tim could hardly run 30 minutes and in order to achieve his goals within 4 months, he would have write the book at blazing speed and get into the kind of physical condition to maintain a pace of running 40 miles per day for 31 straight days.

Impossible you might think? No. Remember I told you that you are more powerful than you think you are.

You see Tim had a unique source of motivation to fuel his goals. He had Mike. He had the examples from years of watching Mike display the traits of a real life Superhero. Tim had the inspiration of making a promise to an exceptional young man. Tim had the motivation of a purpose greater than himself.

Tim had the yearning to pursue a series of goals so much bigger than anything he had ever done before, that he just had to try. As a tribute to Mike, Tim had to push himself beyond anything he ever previously did, as Mike does every single day.

Some people in life believe you should only pursue goals you know you can achieve. Others believe the success lies in the growth that occurs from stretching beyond your previous wins, and that all growth is success.

How do you define success?

I interviewed Tim recently on my radio show. Tim explains how he found an endurance coach and transformed himself from a couch potato into an ultra endurance champion. Tim did not reach his goal of running 40 miles a day. You see, his plan was flawed. He made a lot of mistakes. His schedule for the run was so tight, that he did not allow himself any room for error, like weather, funding, or the hazards of running alongside traffic. His approach for raising money was limited. He had a skeleton crew.

He had to return home by a certain date, regardless of how far behind he was, so he had to drive the distances to catch up when he fell behind. Shortly after he started his journey, he realized he would not be able to achieve the 1,200 miles and still make it home on time. But he kept running, anyways, he wanted to Keep On Keeping On. He would rather continue stretching himself than consider quitting.

Why is Tim's journey considered a success by many? Because he dared to pursue it in the first place. Because he did finish his book about Mike in record time. Because he succeeded in transforming his body into an Ultra Endurance Machine for that time. Because he DID succeed in running an average of 24 miles per day for a total of 700 miles. Because he didn't quit, even when he realized he could not reach every goal he set for himself. Because he touched the heart of a young man who looked up to him. Because he inspired a lot of people to go beyond what they previously thought they could do.

Because for a moment in time, he tapped into the Superhero inside himself and unleashed more of his own potential.

Rising above circumstances like a champion inspires other people.

We must re evaluate our perspective on what success really is.

Are you a success if you play it safe your whole life and never dare anything unless you are guaranteed victory?

When you set BIG Goals, it is important to set many smaller goals that coincide with it. Even if you fail to reach your deadline for one, you will still succeed at many, and you will build your confidence to a much higher level.

There is a Superhero inside YOU.

What Goals can you set that will inspire you to unleash it?

Keep On Keeping On.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

To listen to the complete interview with Tim, visit: http://www.GoalGuru.com/podcast

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her uplifting newspaper column is syndicated
across America and abroad. For FREE Goal Setting Strategies,
Tips and Tools or to join world's largest FREE Goal Newsletter,
visit: http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********

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You are welcome to reprint this article on your web site or in
your ezine. We simply ask that you include our byline and let
us know where the article will be appearing.

***********

Excerpts from My Interview with Dale King of GuruKnowledge

2006-08-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

Quote for the day:

"Today pick one person from your past who impacted your life in
a positive way and write them a HAND WRITTEN letter describing
your gratitude for their presence in your life. Mail it today!"
-Jill Koenig

*************

Yesterday I had the distinct pleasure of being interviewed by
Dale King, the pioneer behind the highly acclaimed start up
GuruKnowledge.org

I wanted to share with you the transcript of the interview:

*************

Dale King of GuruKnowledge.org Interviews
World Famous Goal Guru, Jill Koenig

Dale King: Today, I'm interviewing world famous Goal Guru, and
America's #1 Goal Strategist, Jill Koenig. Hello Jill, how are
you?

Jill Koenig: I am OUTSTANDING!

Dale King: Jill, tell my readers how and when you got started
marketing on the Internet.

Jill Koenig: I have been marketing in various formats for
approximately ten years. My past ventures were 99% offline
and only 1% online. Six months ago I launched a new brand
and fully intend to maximize the power of the internet as the
primary resource for leads, promotion and revenue. My ultimate
Goal is to share my message and empower people to pursue their
highest vision. The internet has no borders, no boundaries, no
limitations.

Dale King: Some Internet marketing experts advise newbies to
steer clear of certain areas of Internet Marketing, like selling
e-books on how to make money, advertising services, SEO
services, copywriting, etc., because it's too competitive. Do
you agree with that assessment?

Jill Koenig: I encourage people to follow their bliss. If your
passion or expertise lies in a certain area, you will be
energized about pursuing it. You will create higher quality
content, you are more likely to be innovative, and you will
have longevity because you are in love with your topic.

Dale King: How is Internet Marketing different now, as opposed
to when you first got started online?

Jill Koenig: Choices. There are more choices out there for
anything you are seeking.

Dale King: How important has goal-setting been to your overall
success?

Jill Koenig: Goal Setting is EVERYTHING. There is a good
reason why people call me the Goal Guru.

I find that most people encounter serious problems when they
don't learn the art of Goal Setting. The human mind needs
targets and time lines to aim for, otherwise you are likely to
be easily distracted and not manage your time well. There
is a simple process for identifying exactly what you desire
and then creating a plan for achieving it. I don't know anyone
who reached the top of their field without learning Goal
Strategies.

You owe it to yourself to learn the strategies that get results.

I have dedicated my life to teaching them all over the world.

Dale King: How important has reading been to your overall
success?

Jill Koenig: Reading is a critical investment into yourself.
I grew up in poverty but I could walk a few blocks to the
library and read all the books I wanted for free. Books
saved my life. Books provide nourishment for the mind.

You can identify any conceivable problem and there are
books that provide solutions, suggestions and insight for
overcoming it. I read a minimum of 30 minutes every
morning. What an empowering way to begin the day.
I bring books everywhere I go and I listen to books on
audio in the car.

I love biographies. Anyone who has achieved success
in something has encountered countless challenges along
the way. Their gift to humanity is to share the lessons
of their journey. You feed your body food each day to
keep it going. Your mind needs nourishment too, and
it comes from books.

Dale King: If you could recommend one book that all Internet
marketers should read, what would it be?

Jill Koenig: The Time Commandments! Time is LIFE and
how you spend your time determines what results you
are going to get. It covers Goal Setting, prioritizing,
creating momentum and everything a person needs
to know to produce FAST results! The strategies are
timeless and apply to any area of life.

Dale King: In your opinion, what technology has changed
Internet marketing the most over the last 5 years?

Jill Koenig: High Speed Internet. With the affordability of
high speed of internet connections, marketers can now
utilize the power of video and provide instant downloads
of information products to impact their subjects. When
our culture wants something, we want it NOW.

Dale King: What new technology do you see changing Internet
marketing over the next 5 years?

Jill Koenig: Video.

Dale King: What person has influenced you the most in your
lifetime, and how?

Jill Koenig: My mom is my #1 hero. My father abandoned
our family and was gone before I was even born. My mother
picked up the pieces and made the best of a tough situation.
She did an amazing job of nurturing four little souls and
providing the emotional support that children need for
healthy self esteem.

Dale King: If you could give my readers one piece of advice,
what would it be?

Jill Koenig: If you want to create massive changes in your
life, you must arrange and design your life so that your
GOALS and DREAMS are at the FOREFRONT of your day,
instead of them being an afterthought.

Dale King: Thank you very much Jill. I appreciate you taking
the time to do this interview.

Jill Koenig: Anytime Dale. Thank you for creating an amazing
environment where people can come and learn how to
maximize their potential. Keep up the great work!

***************

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist.
A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is
an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and
Business Success. Her uplifting newspaper column is syndicated
across America and abroad. For FREE Goal Setting Strategies,
Tips and Tools or to join world's largest FREE Goal Newsletter,
visit: http://www.GoalGuru.com

***********

Need fresh, free content for your web site or ezine?

You are welcome to reprint this article on your web site or in
your ezine. We simply ask that you include our byline and let
us know where the article will be appearing.

***********

Time Management Strategies of a Self-Made Millionaire

2006-08-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig

Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

When I graduated high school, I received a partial scholarship to study at a prestigious Chicago Art School. At nights and on the weekends I worked as a Firefighter/EMT, which gave me a unique perspective on TIME and how fragile life can be. I saw things at the age of 18 that most people will never see in their entire lifetime.

I watched people come into this world, I witnessed people take their last breath and I saw everything in between. I helped people in the aftermath of accidents, illness and violent tragedy and I learned a valuable lesson I built my life around... DO NOT SQUANDER TIME.

Time is a precious resource. Time is LIFE.

A lot of people don't know that I left Art school after 1 year and started my first business out of my tiny bedroom of the home in the ghetto I grew up in. It's not a glamorous beginning, in fact it was brutal, but my circumstances of living in poverty certainly provided me with more than enough motivation to succeed.

I was in my 20's. I had zero capital. It was either sink or swim.

I learned very quickly when everything is riding on your shoulders, you live or die based upon how you spend your time.

You might think that's too black and white, or too intense, but that's the philosophy that guided my decisions minute to minute, day to day.

That clear cut philosophy is what enabled me to earn more in a month than I previously earned in a year.

That clear cut philosophy is what led me to develop a laser like focus and generate quick income, starting with only $100.

That philosophy is what enabled me to double my income and then double it again, and again and again. By the time I was 30 years old, I was a self made millionaire and was living in a custom built dream home I helped design. In a short time I went from a crime ridden ghetto, to living in a sanctuary like paradise, surrounded by a nature preserve, complete with my very own creek and backyard putting green. I went from living among thugs and drugs to living among millionaires.

People always want to know how I was able to achieve such a dramatic transformation so quickly.

Here are some of the secrets and strategies that guide my life:

"If you want to make rapid changes in your life, you must arrange and design your life so that your GOALS and DREAMS are at the FOREFRONT of your days, instead of them being an afterthought." -Jill Koenig

My Goals direct my thoughts.

My Goals direct my days.

You have got to let your GOALS, dreams and visions become so real and near to you that you feel them in your soul. My goals live in every cell of my body, they are within every breath I take. I integrate my goals so clearly into my existence, I cannot be separated from them by any outside event, person or circumstance.

I believe I am guided and if I do not achieve my goals as I envisioned them, I will receive something much, much better than anything I could have ever dreamed of.

I understand a positive mental attitude is key, especially when things go wrong.

I visualize my Goals constantly and they become a part of me.

I include others in my goals, and never miss an opportunity to help someone else reach theirs, even when I don't think I have much to offer.

I never discourage anyone from going after their dreams... ever.

It has been said that God's gift to you is LIFE.

What you do with it is your gift to God.

Let's see. I live in America. I have the absolute freedom to design my own life.

That's a lot more than millions of other people have who are born elsewhere in the world.

People risk their lives to come to America and experience a small taste of the rights I was born with, which were granted to me by my country's insightful forefathers.

I am healthy. I have 2 hands, 2 feet and a brain that works reasonable well. Some people don't have that. There is no reason in the world I couldn't become anything I want if I am willing to do my part and keep on keeping on.

There isn't anything I can't learn.

I make a concerted effort to read, learn and grow every single day.

I can change my life and start over anytime I want.

I can pursue my own American dream.

I am FREE.

And I am responsible for my own decisions and actions.

Someone once told me, "You are what you do." How and where you spend your time, and your actions are indicative of your self-esteem and your own self-worth. What you do with your time reveals what you truly value. Not what you "say" you value. You can raise your standards at any time.

This story is not to impress you, simply to illustrate what is possible for you if you strive to master your time and treat every minute as a precious resource.

Cherish your health and the people around you.

Be Bold. Be courageous.

Set Goals and get to work.

If you are going to do something, do it with all your might.

Make the Mastery of Time a priority in your life.

I actually created products to help people program themselves for success. They pay for themselves many times over for those who are committed to investing a few minutes a day.

http://www.TheTimeCommandments.com

Do not squander time.

There are 525,600 minutes in a year.

That's a lot of minutes.

How are you spending yours?

Jill Koenig

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her uplifting newspaper column is syndicated across America and abroad. For FREE Goal Setting Strategies, Tips and Tools as well as archives of her radio show or to Join the world's largest FREE Goal Newsletter, visit: http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006 GoalGuru.com

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So You Want to Write a Book?

2006-08-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker

According to a survey by USA Today and the Association of American Publishers, 82 percent of all Americans plan to write a book someday.

Just about everyone talks about writing the book, but very few have actually set a goal with an action plan and a deadline.

Perhaps this is because they don't know where to start. The fact is, there are many ways to write your book and make it available for purchase to the public.

You can self-publish, you can seek a traditional publisher and you can even create your own downloadable ebook. Each method has it's own advantages and disadvantages. We'll cover this in more detail in upcoming articles and podcasts.

The key is for you to pinpoint what you are trying to accomplish, and why. Why do you want to write a book? Once you have decided your outcome, and answered a few other crucial questions, you can then decide which approach is best for you.

Do you know the story behind Chicken Soup for the Soul?

Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield spent 3 years collecting uplifting stories from their peers. In 1992, they began sending their manuscript to publishers.

In the first 30 days, they received 33 rejections and THEIR OWN AGENT FIRED THEM.

All totaled, 140 publishers rejected the book.

Hansen and Canfield then went to a book publishing conference (now the BEA) and went booth to booth. They were turned down by another 134 publishers. They left a copy of their manuscript with a publisher who read it and agreed to publish it.

They were more than $ 140,000 in debt from their project.

They continued on long after most other people would have quit and given up.

What differentiates Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield from other authors?

Their GOALS. Their determination. Their persistence.

Here were their Goals for Chicken Soup:

1993: First Goal 1 1/2 million in 1 1/2 years
1995: 5 million original Chicken Soup
1996: 10 million books
2000: 50 million books
2020: 1 Billion books

Lofty goals for a book that they were told nobody wanted.

You must believe more in your vision than any rejection you encounter.

Hansen said, "Writers create babies called books and then orphan them."

Most people give up at the first sign of rejection.

"Focus more on your GOALS than your obstacles." -Jill Koenig

Hansen and Canfield had this advice after they continually succeeded in reaching their goals:

"Find great Mentors. Surround yourself with well chosen mentors and it will dramatically change your life!" Get a Coach.

That's great advice. A great coach can keep you focused on what you need to do to reach your goals.

The Chicken Soup series has sold more than 100 Million books and counting.

Most authors will tell you:

10% of the work is writing the book.

The other 90% of the work is marketing, promoting, selling and advertising.

So be prepared to keep working on your book by marketing it long after you have finished writing it. Wise authors can make more on licensing and other streams of income from their book besides royalties. But you've got to learn how to do it. You've got to set goals. You must create a plan and set aside the time for making it happen.

I interviewed Diane Eble, a highly sought after book coach and you can listen to Part 1 of the free podcast here:

http://www.GoalGuru.com/podcast

It has been reported that 6 million people have written a manuscript. Most manuscripts don't make it to print. So if you have a goal to bring your book to the market, I recommend you study the podcast and get started towards making your dream a reality.

I want to read your book.

I want you to share your gifts with the world.

If not now, then when?

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

Copyright 2006

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her uplifting newspaper column is syndicated across America and abroad. For FREE Goal Setting Strategies, Tips and Tools or to join world's largest FREE Goal Newsletter, visit: http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006 GoalGuru.com

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Tony Robbins Used to Be A Depressed Janitor...

2006-08-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

Every great accomplishment was born from a single thought, an idea, a goal. Leaders are able to harness their own talents, empower themselves and inspire others to bring their goals to fruition despite all odds, despite all setbacks, despite all obstacles.

Tony Robbins is one example of how one person can pick themselves up and thrive, that no matter where you are at today, you can accomplish ANYTHING you desire. If Tony Robbins can turn his life around and become one of the greatest motivational leaders of our time, imagine what you can do.

Every great achievement was once an idea.

Every International MultiMillion, MultiBillion dollar company originated from a thought that one person had the courage to put into motion.

Every Millionaire and Billionaire who pursued their dream picked themselves up every time they go knocked down.

We must remind ourselves of all the greatness, all of the potential that is dormant within us just yearning to be UNLEASHED. The world needs what YOU have to offer.

This story made it's way around the world within days of publication.

Please forward it to anyone you know who has a dream. Forward this to anyone who needs a little extra encouragement and inspiration. Forward this to remind them of the greatness within. If you're not going after what you desire in life, print it out to remind yourself to Keep On Keeping On.

Do you remember your first job?

When I was in grade school, I earned money shoveling snow, mowing people's lawns, washing cars and picking up dog poop for neighbors. I still carry with me the lessons I learned back then. I learned to be willing and eager to work hard. I learned that if you care about people and do a great job, people will hire you again. I learned that if people like you, they will recommend you to their friends and peers.

People forget sometimes that every great achievement began with a goal and was backed by commitment, hard work, persistence and gradual improvement. To illustrate this, I started to keep a list of first jobs that famous people have worked. When you look at them now, you cannot imagine they ever did anything other then what they do now.

But we all start somewhere. Here is a list of some famous people and their first jobs:

Madeline Albright, former US Sec of State first job: Dept Store Bra Sales Clerk

Alan Dershowitz, Author, Attorney first job: Deli Factory Worker

Michael Eisner, former CEO Disney first job: Camp Counselor

Nancy Grace, CNN Host, Attorney first job: Sears Candy Clerk

Jay Leno, Comedian, Host of The Tonight Show first job: McDonalds

Cal Ripken, jr, Former Major League Baseball player first job: Errand Boy in Minor League Clubhouse

Tony Robbins, Author, Motivational Speaker first job: Janitor

Gene Simmons, KISS Rock Star first job: Paper Boy

Russell Simmons, Founder Def Jam Records first job: fast food- Orange Julius

George Steinbrenner, owner NY Yankees first job: Raising Chickens

Isiah Thomas, Former NBA Basketball Player first job: Shoe Shine Boy

Donald Trump, Real Estate Investor first job: Collected Soda Bottles, then Rent Money for father

Oprah Winfrey, Billionaire, Talk Show Host first job: Radio Station Announcer

Many millionaires started as paper boys or worked in fast food. There were many humble beginnings from people who went on to change the world. These people were born with greatness inside them, just like you have greatness inside you. These people progressed, improved themselves, worked hard and grew into their greatness. These people never gave up on their dreams.

No matter your current occupation, what you do is not who you are. We all have to start somewhere.

The people who rise to greatness in anything follow their bliss. They don't squander their time. They get started and keep on keeping on.

Tony Robbins is an example of how one person can pick themselves up and thrive, that no matter where you are today, you can accomplish ANYTHING you desire. You must learn to set goals and channel your energies and attention on the steps to take you towards their attainment.

What gift or passion do you posses that you have been yearning to develop or pursue?

What secret dreams do you harbor that you haven't started yet?

What are you waiting for?

Set your goals and get it going.

Make your move.

No one else can do it for you.

Take the next step.

Do one thing right now to advance your goal.

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

Jill Koenig, the "Goal Guru' is America's Top Goal Strategist. A Best Selling Author, Coach and Motivational Speaker, she is an expert on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business Success. Her uplifting newspaper column is syndicated across America and abroad. For FREE Goal Setting Strategies, Tips and Tools or to join world's largest FREE Goal Newsletter, visit: http://www.GoalGuru.com

Parenting and Family Goals

2006-08-03T10:56:00.000-07:00

While many of the readers of the Goal Blog are entrepreneurs, many of you are parents as well, trying to juggle your work and family life.

It is important when setting Goals, that we set goals for all of the areas of our life:

Spiritual
Family
Work
Financial
Health
Social

While we are on the subject, I ran across a great blog for moms that I wanted to pass along: SolutionsForBusyMoms.com I love the post on personality types.

Growth requires seeking out ways of improving every area of your life and for busy moms, this is a great site to get you in the zone of establishing and maintaining a harmonious home environment.

Take some time today and set some small goals you would like to achieve in your family. What are some ways you can create nurturing, positive quality family time? Here are some examples:

Establish a familyGame night
Make dinner together and experiment with different recipes
Take a family field trip
Create a fun family exercise program
Volunteer as a family for a day at a homeless shelter or special needs charity
Don't forget to Establish a date night for 1 on 1 time with your honey

and my favorite:
Establish a routine of going over positives and thank you's with your children about what you're grateful for each day. If not at the dinner table, how about as a bedtime routine. Thank your children for anything and everything they did that day. Catch them doing something good and acknowledge every effort you can find!

How's that for a start?

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig is America's Top Goal Strategist. She is an expert
on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business
Success. She publishes the world's largest Goal Newsletter at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006 GoalGuru.com

***********

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My #1 Secret to Time Management... and it's FREE

2006-08-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

If you are seeking to achieve greatness in any area of your life, the two critical subjects you must strive to improve on are Goal Setting and Time Management. Those two subjects should be studied as much as or more than any other key component of your business.

You cannot succeed in one without also succeeding in the other.

When you feel overwhelmed, (we have all felt that way at one time or another), it's time to take a closer look at what you are spending your time on from the minute you wake up, to the minute you fall asleep.

For entrepreneurs, this is critical because if you're not focusing your time and attention on your key result areas, there won't be many positive results occurring.

Most people want a business of their own so they can set their own hours and work whenever they want; sleeping in, taking days off whenever they want, etc. What we know about business is that the entrepreneur's livelihood and success are dependent on being extremely disciplined and consistent, especially when your business is in it's infancy. You are responsible for your own success.

Your time management habits are either ensuring your success or leading you to failure.

Let me get more specific.

Your time management habits are either leading you towards reaching your goals, or leading you away from reaching your goals.

Are you directing your day?

Or is the day and it's circumstances directing you?

Your time habits are worthy of a closer look... right now. Not tomorrow, but today.

The #1 habit for effectiveness is to become conscious of where you are investing your time... all day long. Everyday.

"Effective entrepreneurs do not start with their tasks. They start with their time. And they do not start out planning. THEY START BY FINDING OUT WHERE THEIR TIME ACTUALLY GOES. Then they attempt to manage their time and to cut back on unproductive usages of their time." -Peter Drucker

This strategy is covered in TheTimeCommandments! Time Management Success System. I teach in great detail how to:

1) Define your goals
2) Direct your time according to your goals and
3) Monitor your time and measure your results

In order to grow your business, you must become more efficient than you are right now.

The only way to become more efficient is to monitor your time and measure your results.

If you have employees, you must also teach this or hire a coach to teach this to them.

Here is my #1 Secret to Time Management and increasing efficiency:

Keep a Time Log.

The best way to improve your Time Management is to monitor your time and keep a time log.

Keeping a Time Log means documenting what you are doing on a given day and logging what you are spending your time on at regularly scheduled, predetermined intervals. You can use a notebook and set your watch or a timer to beep every 15 minutes and write down what you are doing, or you can use other FREE tools like this:

http://www.crypto-central.com/html/timekeeper.html

You cannot improve what you don't measure.

Every entrepreneur has a choice.

Either pay the price of discipline or pay the price of regret.

Believe me, it is much easier to pay the price of discipline.

And it is easier to go fast than to go slow.

After you have recorded your activities for the day in your time log, ask yourself these questions:

Did the investment of my time today lead me towards my goals or away from my goals?

If a camera crew followed me around all day today, and broadcast my habits and practices, would I be proud or would I be embarrassed?

Am I a shining example of efficiency or a warning of what not to do?

If I had a boss looking over my shoulder, would I still have a job or would I be fired?

Are my actions and investments of time causing the results I am seeking?

If not, what changes do I need to make?

We cannot ignore the universal laws of cause and effect and expect to be successful.

If your results are not currently what you want them to be, your causes are in need of adjustment. Examine your causes, which are where you are investing your time.

I recommend keeping a time log:

Daily if you are struggling or feeling overwhelmed.

Then weekly until your bad time habits are broken.

Then biweekly.

Ask yourself this question all day long:

Is this the best use of my time right now?

Keeping a time log is free. And it's easy to do. And it will inevitably shine a spotlight on the areas that you need to improve on.

In my new audio program, I reveal the Top 10 Time Management Strategies for achieving your goals. The program is designed to be listened to every day if your desire is to become a Results Seeking Time Management Super Achiever:

http://www.TheTimeCommandments.com

If you are serious about success...

Do it now...

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

Jill Koenig is America's Top Goal Strategist. She is an expert
on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business
Success. She publishes the world's largest Goal Newsletter at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006 GoalGuru.com

***********

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Success Programming

2006-07-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Now Available!

Inspire a higher level of performance by wearing the Goal Guru motto for Optimum Results!

Click on the Tshirt to order shirts for yourself or your team.

Listen.

Success Programming involves surrounding yourself with images that inspire you and remind you of your goals. Your surroundings should always remind you of the greatness within you.

I created these Tshirts for myself so I can wear my mantra emblazoned on my chest for the world to see.

Everywhere I went, people asked me, "WHAT DOES IT MEAN?"

I had the privelage of explaining to those who inquired, that it was my primary question on my quest for constant improvment.

It is a reminder to myself to RAISE MY GAME.

Stretch a little further!

Give a little more... (or a lot more)!

People everywhere were asking me how they could get the shirts for their sports teams, companies, and organizations. So I trademarked the mantra and made the shirts available for everyone!

Every time you see it, every time someone asks you what it means, it I further solidifies your commitment to a higher standard, a higher level of performance, expand your capacity.

Wear it proudly.

It works!

Jill

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Are You Satisfied?

2006-07-25T10:15:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

This past weekend I celebrated another birthday. Lately I have been working extended hours on some special projects so I carved out some time to absorb the majesty of wilderness, in my favorite place to reflect. I decided to spend the day hiking at Starved Rock State Park. It's my top day trip "get away" destination and it's an quick one hour drive from my house.

I love exploring the trails and the massive limestone rocks along the Illinois River. Besides taking in the abundant beauty all around me (it is an amazing place), I set a goal to hike farther than I have ever gone before there. Maybe it was ego, pride, curiosity, or maybe it was pure determination. I have been hiking there for 10 years and I guess since I'm a little older the challenge to better my best beckoned.

Hiking at Starved Rock is not like walking along a sidewalk. There are many peaks and valleys, hills and ravines to be traversed. Let me tell you, it's a workout. Within 10 minutes I was taking breaks to catch my breath and I wondered how far I would be able to progress. After all, I am 10 years older than when I originally trekked these trails. Adding to the challenge, it was a hot and humid 90+ degrees.

After several miles of ascending and descending, I knew I had arrived in the vicinity of the point that I would usually turn around and head back. I was having a great time, getting a serious workout, and as challenging as it was, I was considering turning back when a voice within me asked... Are You Satisfied?

Are You Satisfied?

I find myself asking that more and more these days.

As I grow, I find that my goals are more ambitious and expansive.

I yearn to stretch myself a little bit farther.

I long to better my best in everything I do.

When I think I cannot go any farther, is precisely the moment I must stretch a little bit more.

Fulfillment is measured by your own yardstick.

Are You Satisfied?

It's one of the greatest questions you can ask yourself.

Write these 3 words on a sticky notes and place them around your house for one week.

Are You Satisfied?

Look at your list of goals.

Are You Satisfied?

It is a question that opens doors.

It leads to "plussing" your endeavors. It adds to...

It leads to breakthroughs.

It dares you to burst through (perceived) barriers.

You will magically identify areas you can do better.

No matter how happy I am with something, I can always do better, the simple question is an invitation for constant improvement.

Constant and never ending improvement is a discipline, a habit that can be learned by asking questions like this.

Are You Satisfied?

It's a challenge. It's a dare.

Think about it. At work, at play, at the gym, in the car, in your relationships...

One more phone call at work, one more glass of water, one more sit up, one more mile, one more smile, one more hug, one more I love you...

To finish my story about hiking at Starved Rock, I did go beyond. I went farther than I have ever gone before and it was more beautiful than I imagined it would be. It was exhilarating. I took an inventory of my life. I reveled in gratitude. I basked in nature. I set some new goals.

Are You Satisfied?

Let me know your results...

Jill

http://www.GoalGuru.com

Jill Koenig is America's Top Goal Strategist. She is an expert
on the subjects of Goal Setting, Time Management and Business
Success. She publishes the world's largest Goal Newsletter at
http://www.GoalGuru.com

Copyright 2006 GoalGuru.com

***********

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You are welcome to reprint this article on your web site or in
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Are You A Prisoner of Success?

2006-07-21T12:12:00.000-07:00

By Jill Koenig
Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker

I love to study various religions and spiritual beliefs. I caught a fascinating interview with Barbara Brown Taylor on pbs the other day.

Years ago, Barbara pursued a goal to spend the rest of her life closer to God. She became a Priest and was 'successful' in growing the congregation of a small church in Georgia.

The problem was that her success at growing the church started to take her away from her original goal. She was burning out.

This is what Barbara said:

"Part of what happened was that the church and I succeeded. Part of what happened is that the church grew, and I gained a reputation for preaching, and people came, and it was a wonderful community. But we had a building that seated 82 people, and with a congregation then approaching 400 we were up to four services on Sunday, and everyone was tired. But the only relief to our tiredness was to build a new building, and no one particularly wanted to go there.

So I found myself in a maze where I'd taken the wrong turn. In my wish to do well for that congregation I wasn't doing particularly well for myself or my friends or my family, and I even found that the work for God was taking me away from God. There was no time anymore to be quiet or still or pray. So, in many ways, that's what led to my downward spin.

Beliefs have become unimportant to me. Faith as radical trust became even more important to me during this time. Because so many of my certainties about who I was and what I was supposed to be doing fell away, that faith was really what I had left.

In following the Really Real into a parish, which seemed to me like the best place to be full-time involved in what was Really Real, I became so attentive to the souls of other people that I was not as attentive as I might have been to my own."

Barbara was burned out. She took a step back. Her original goal was to be closer to God. Her success had begun to take her away from God.

From time to time, you have to take a break and take inventory on your life and your situation.

Are you where you want to be?

Are you headed in the direction you want to be moving?

Sometimes we get so busy, we forget where we were trying to go.

Are you directing your day or is your day directing you?

What changes do you need to make?

Goals are something we must continually look at. We define them, we redefine them. Progress is not only measured in numbers but also in fulfillment, growth, joy and peace of mind. Those are measured in the heart.

We have to check in. The Time Commandments leads you through a series of steps, that when followed will allow you to live closer to your bliss.

For Barbara, the change she made was to resign from the position at the church she grew so successfully and take a positition as a teacher at nearby Piedmont College. She still guest preaches at various churches several times a month and continues to evolve in her journey. She has written 10 books on spiritual evolution, which are a fascinating read.

You can watch the interview here:

http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/week945/profile.html

Where are you going? Are you fulfilled?

Are you moving closer to your goals?

If you are stuck, what changes do you need to make?

http://www.TheTimeCommandments.com

Live Your Dreams,

Jill Koenig

http://www.GoalGuru.com