My Five Cents Diary

I seriously like this articles.

2010-02-10T23:18:00.001+08:00

Entrepreneurship is not about business. It is about self-transformation. It is about becoming who you have always wanted to be. It is a 180-degree shift in perspective and mind-set--then living everyday in that mindset. You stare at yourself everyday, see your weaknesses close up, and find new ways to overcome them. If you're approaching entrepreneurship correctly, it is transformative. As an entrepreneur, you should be in a constant state of personal growth. Launching yourself out into space with nothing but a wing, a prayer, an idea, and a business plan, far outside your comfort zone, will change who you are and how you live more completely than any self-help program, religious conversion, or psychotherapy.

One day I would love to poll entrepreneurs who have fall into two groups: the wildly successful and the ones who gave up after a short while. I'll bet you that 90 percent of the wildly successful ones spent more time working on themselves than their companies. They have cultivated their passion, their self-belief, and their ability to inspire others everyday. They spend less time working on balance sheets and fine-tuning marketing plans and more time finding new ways to overcome their fears and bring audacious new ideas to light. That's what entrepreneurs do: they change the world by changing themselves first.

Ideas aren't just about product development or financial success; they are part of your identity. You show the world who you are through expression and development of your ideas. When I talk to aspiring entrepreneurs who never got their idea off the drawing board, I hear the same sad story: it's not the idea they don't believe in, but their own ability to make it work. They don't believe they have what it takes to be a Tommy Hilfiger or a Jeff Bezos or a Mark Zuckerberg, the college kid who created Facebook. But do you know the only quality separating these moguls from other people? Self-belief and the willingness to shove the fear back in the corners of their minds and thrust their ideas. The fire to go for it and let the chips fall where they may.

The first question to ask yourself when you think about taking the entrepreneurial leap isn't "What kind of business do I want to start?" It's "Who do I want to become?" The first thing you must change before you can realize your dream is yourself. Call it the spiritual path to entrepreneurship if you like, but ask anyone who has built something great from nothing and he or she will back me up. When you start there, everything else falls into place.

To find out more, check out my new book What if? & Why not?: How to Transform Your Fears Into Action and Start the Business of Your Dreams

Do you have a hobby?

2010-02-07T11:16:00.002+08:00

Do you have a hobby? Yes? Almost everyone has a hobby. A hobby is something which you take pleasure from doing; relieves you from boredom, stress and keeps you occupied in your spare time. However, some hobbies naturally have more potential to thrive and expand than others and you can take some hobbies and develop them into successful businesses. Can you think of some businesses that might have started out from a hobby?

- Nail-painting

- Scrap-booking

- Knitting

- Building car models

- Building model aeroplanes

- Teddy-bear collection

- Pet-shop

There are many many other examples.

Are there some people who started out with a hobby and built up a very successful business from the ground up by doing something that they enjoy and are passionate about? Yes or yes? Absolutely.

Have you been to Plaza Singapura in Singapore? If you have, there is a shop there called 'Made With Love'. They sell scrap-booking materials and teach you how to create your own scrap-book. Instead of putting your photos into a simple photo album, you can use photos that hold special memories for you and create pieces of art that you can keep close to your heart

forever. Scrap-booking is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S. But when these 3 ladies first started their business in Singapore, scrap-booking was relatively unknown in Singapore. It was a hobby for them and they started out selling their products from a push-cart. Within a short period of time, they now own a relatively big shop in Singapore's Orchard Road, where the rent is very high. They've done very well for themselves.

One of our graduates started her own nail-art business while attending our Entrepreneur Action Program. She generated more

than $2,000 while still attending the program and she now does it as her own business.

It IS possible for you to turn your hobby into a business too.

Here are some points for you to consider when you are thinking of turning your hobby into a business.

1) Commitment

- Do you have the commitment?

- Are you committed to make a business work?

You enjoy doing your hobby now in your spare time. But do you have the commitment needed to stick with it if you were doing

it full time? Doing something when you feel like it for fun is totally different from relying on it for an income.

If you have the commitment, we guarantee you that you'll find the time, the resources, the money, everything. If you don't have the commitment, you will find yourself struggling - especially if you depend on it for your livelihood.

Commitment is essential for getting a business to work. If you're not ready to put in the commitment or you're not sure, don't quit your job and go into a full-time business. Start off a part-time business and when you find you're making enough income as your job is paying you, then you may want to step out full-time and expand your business. By then, you'll have earned the right and have the confidence to be y'our o'wn b'oss.

2) Financing

- How much it is going to take to finance your hobby as a business and get it off the ground? - Do you have a head for business or are you going to need any help? - How much help will you need and what is it going to cost for you to hire other people?

3) Attending Business Courses

Some people ask us: is your company government-related? Do we get a certificate? And some will say: "Oh, I'm studying

business in the university, I don't need your course." Let us ask you, do you think you need a certificate to start a business? No - you just need to pass the minimum age requirement and anyone can register a business. Do you think you need practical skills, knowledge and experience to start a business? Yes. Which one will give you a better chance at running a successful business? Practical experience, yes?

Don't get us wrong, we think academic education is important.

But you know what?

* Academic Education will get you a job. Self-Education will get you rich.

If you really want to start and run a successful business, we're telling you that learning theories about business is not enough.

You need practical skills and experience. Our program is one way for you to gain the practical skills, knowledge and experience

in the shortest period of time. Another way is for you to find mentors and go out there and gain the experiences for your self.

4) Attracting customers

If you are going turn your hobby into a thriving business, it is essential that people know about you and what you are offering,

therefore you have to think about widening your customer base. How do you do that? Through marketing - something we've been sharing with you over and over again. Remember AIDA? Attention Interest Desire Action. Sales and marketing are two things you must master if you want to run a million-dollar business and we focus a lot on sales and marketing in our program.

5) Preparing yourself for success

- What happens if your business becomes a success?

You will have to be prepared for the transformations that will take place. When your business expands, it may become too large for a one person operation. By then, you will be faced with a whole new set of problems. In order for your business to grow, you must grow. If you're thinking of hiring someone, one thing you need to increase is your leadership ability. Successful entrepreneurs are always learning and growing. Successful entrepreneurs will tell you that they've been preparing for their success. Success didn't just happen overnight.

Some people have the dream of taking their business public, to be put on the stock-exchange. (That's how some people become 'instant-millionaires'.) But do you know that very often, the people who started the company are not the ones who take the company public? Taking a company public requires a different type of skill set from starting a business. So as you grow, your company will grow. Otherwise, you need to get people who know how to grow a business to help you.

6) Just Do It.

If you've always thought of turning your hobby into your business, you know what? Just Do It. Just start somewhere and

see what happens. But start out small. Especially if you've never done business before. Start small so your risk is low.

Better still if you can start with little or no money and generate infinite returns.

You can create your life exactly the way you want it.

T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

8 Secrets To Success!

2009-12-19T21:44:00.003+08:00

Repetition is the mother of mastery, which is why we'd like to share with you the 8 Secrets to Success top motivational gurus like Brian Tracy, Dr Wayne Dyer all agree upon, so you too can turn your dreams into reality.

1. Take 100% Responsibility for Your Life – In a society where people blame everything from their parents to the government for failure, successful people are those who don't buy into this mentality or succumb to the "victim" thinking succeed. To blame something or somebody outside yourself is saying they have control of your life and not you. Someone else's opinion of you doesn't have to become your reality.

2. Live Your Life On Purpose - What separates motivational thinkers from the unsuccessful is that they believe they're doing what they were put here to do. Just living is just getting through the week with the least problems. But when you live your life on purpose, your main concern is doing the job right. For the entrepreneur this means finding a cause you believe in and building your business around it. Like for Wendy, her purpose is to touch and inspire at least one million people's lives before leaving this world.

3. Be Willing to Pay the Price - Be willing to pay the price for your dreams. Wanting a big house, a luxury car, and a million dollars in the bank is all very nice, and everyone wants these things – but are you willing to pay the price to get them? This is one of the major differences between the successful and unsuccessful.

4. Stay Focused – Every day we're bombarded with hundreds of tasks, phone calls, messages, and everyone competing for our time. Focusing requires giving up something in the present because you are investing your time in something that will pay off big-time down the road. Jack Canfield and Mark Hanson were turned down by 30 publishers when they submitted the first "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book. Instead of giving up, they stayed focused on their goal and did four or five interviews per day for radio, TV, and newspapers, for five days a week

for a whole year. Eventually, a small publisher decided to take a chance on their book, and of course now it's a best-seller that has spawned an entire series that have sold more than 10 million copies.

5. Become An Expert in Your Field - One striking factor all successful people have in common is how seriously they take their profession. They strive to be the best at what they do, and do almost anything to improve. If someone followed you around all day with a video camera at your business, would it be a tape you'd be proud of or embarrassed about? Make the decision today to work at being the best in your field. How? By finding out what the "best" in your field are doing, and do what they do.

6. Write Out a Plan for Achieving Your Goals - Write out an action plan/map for how you're going to achieve your goals. Trying to reach your goals without a plan is like trying to drive from Los Angeles to Chicago without a map. A goal that isn't written down is merely a wish or fantasy.

7. Never Give Up - Never, never, never give up. When you're fully committed to achieving your goal, giving up is not an option. You must be willing do whatever it takes to make it happen. The power of perseverance is an awesome force. Think of the inchworm – if it pondered the length of the trip from start to finish before it started, it probably would never move. To a worm's point-of-view, the garden path must look like a trip to Mars. Never give up! Keep on taking steps towards your goal and pretty soon you're there.

8. Don't Delay, T'ake A'ction Now - Nobody knows how much time they have left to accomplish their dreams, and we must remember that we don't have forever. The clock is ticking, and sooner or later your number comes up and you're gone. Successful achievers know this too, but they don't view it as a "negative". Achievers use it to "spur them on". They go after what they want as energetically and as passionately as possible, for as long as they have.

The Wealthy Are Generous

2009-12-12T19:23:00.002+08:00

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

*Recap:

*My Success Mantra*

I am responsible for the results in my life.

I choose to live above the line.

I learn from all experiences that come my way.

I constantly get out of my comfort zone and take action towards

my dreams.

I operate with utmost integrity and add value to others.

I possess the winning attitude at all times.

I am a source of inspiration for people around me.

I am grateful because...

my life is filled with opportunities, love and abundance.

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

Hi Dan!

What was your experience after saying your mantra out loud?

Have you noticed anything interesting that's happened in your

life since? Do share with us. We'd love to know your feedback.

Dan, The Wealthy Are Generous.

Many people think that the reason rich people have so much money is because they are selfish and like to keep all their money to themselves. While this may be true in some cases, there are

actually many more individuals who are wealthy because they know how to give. Excellent examples of extremely wealthy individuals who generously contribute their money towards worthy causes are Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, etc.

While highly successful people do state hard work, perseverance and other well-known traits as reasons for their success, they also know that the reason why they are able to achieve and accumulate such an abundance of wealth and happiness in their lives is because they are aware of a simple principle in life - You receive what you give.

You receive what you give is such a simple and basic principal taught in the early years of our life that and yet most people overlook it and pass it off as trivial and unimportant in their lives as they get caught up in their pursuit for money.

Recall the times when you gave someone a genuine smile which in turn gave them good reason to give a smile back to you. How about the time when you criticized and humiliated someone? That incident most probably provided them with the fuel and reasons to pull you down and make you feel bad too.

Just as the principle works for non-material resources like time, effort, talent, service, or even an affectionate feeling, it works the same way for money as well. When you give away money to causes that you believe in, you allow yourself and the universe further reasons to channel more money back to you. The authentic action of giving away money away to causes that bring you closer to joy is a signal to the universe that you are acting from a state of abundance, that you do believe that you have more than enough for yourself, so much so that you are able to give of yourself.

Some people think that they'll give next time when they have more. But even when we had less wealth, we shared what time, expertise and money that we could and truly have received more than we dreamed possible.

The act of giving from your heart without expecting anything in return can summon the spirit of joy to come into your heart. When that happens, you release a powerful force that will trigger your good deed to "bounce" back to you in amazing, and sometimes unusual ways.

Summon a wealth of joy and abundance into your life today by practicing a simple act of giving.

You can create your life exactly the way you want it. T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

Mentor

2009-12-01T21:54:00.003+08:00

I like the marathon story he shared with us. I find it very meaningful, thankful and true.

Award winning author and CEO interviews about his great self help book, Mentor: The Kid & The CEO

Last day of Nov

2009-12-01T00:29:00.006+08:00

Things doesn't seem good for me after 6 pm just now. Sorry I will relate on what had happened. What I can say is that it's an unpleasant event and seriously cause you frustrated & bad mood. Nevertheless, I practice what the New Earth has mention before, something along the line, 'Make peace with the environment' This is the moment I really have the chance to execute out after few months of conditioning myself. I try very hard inside me. So what I got to say? This really make me feel better. After all, such bad event don't turn out that bad. It's not that easy and I have to say that it's quite tiring and challenging.

Two Choices

2009-11-21T14:13:00.001+08:00

What would you do? You make the choice. Don't look for a punch line, there isn't one. Read it anyway. My question is: Would you have made the same choice?

At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:

'When not interfered by outside influences, everything nature does, is done with perfection. Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do.’

‘Where is the natural order of things in my son?'

The audience was stilled by the query.

The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'

Then he told the following story:

Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.

I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.'

Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted.

In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.

In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.

In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again.

Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.

At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game?

Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball.

However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact.

The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed.

The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay.

As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.

The game would now be over.

The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman.

Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game.

Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates.

Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!'

Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base.

He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled.

Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!'

Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base.

B y the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball. The smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team.

He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head.

Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.

All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay'

Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! Shay, run to third!'

As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!'

Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team.

'That day', said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'.

Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!

AND NOW A LITTLE FOOT NOTE TO THIS STORY:

We all send thousands of jokes through the e-mail without a second thought, but when it comes to sending messages about life choices, people hesitate.

The crude, vulgar, and often obscene pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion about decency is too often suppressed in our schools and workplaces.

If you're thinking about forwarding this message, chances are that you're probably sorting out the people in your address book who aren't the 'appropriate' ones to receive this type of message Well, the person who sent you this believes that we all can make a difference.

We all have thousands of opportunities every single day to help realize the 'natural order of things.' So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice:

Do we pass along a little spark of love and humanity or do we pass up those opportunities and leave the world a little bit colder in the process?

A wise man once said every society is judged by how it treats it's least fortunate amongst them.

Something new to learn

2009-11-21T01:26:00.005+08:00

Things started to warm up. I did a lot of research from the net and from friends. And even email the boss of the web store with few question. Still a lot of doubt and questions to be answer. Still searching for the right person and advise. Currently, from my understanding I know there will be changes to my plan. Well, I haven't start doing my business plan yet. Still at the brain storming phrase. Just purely on research, research and research. Although, I have the idea, plan and the niche I am into. I need to seriously understand the market first, I need to clarify, comprehend and confirm certain things before I really get into action and commitment. Not sure how far I will go but this is a enjoyable process and fun.

Robert Kiyosaki Principles To Become An MLM Entrepreneur

2009-11-18T23:31:00.006+08:00

Enlightening

2009-11-11T22:42:00.006+08:00

I have put in thoughts and plan into black and white. I have not finished it. And I left there hanging in the air for quite sometime. Today, I shared it with Doris an outline of my idea and plan for my business. Instantly, she suggested me some ways to execute out. Out of no where, I was enlightened. Although, she did not answer my doubts but she unknowingly shine a torch and created a new path to something I might have been searching for. I learn that things might not be that complicated and difficult as I think. I guess I have been setting my sight too high. It's good to be ambitious but it takes time to grow. I should start something simple, small and very little risk. "Think BIG, start small." Even though, it is not the outcome I want and not impressive. There's this quote, "You have to look bad before you look good"

What a Halloween Special

2009-11-01T03:55:00.005+08:00

Just come back from my friends birthday celebration. Not a very good day though. Not me but as a group of my close friends. What a Halloween special. Ha... Things around become bad to worse. I can see and feel the "negatives" is around us and it's multiplying. I just didn't expect to be become that worse. I got to agree that if you think negative, things around start to turn into negative too. The negative here I mention means turning an event in a bad state which you don't wish to happen on you. You don't feel good and comfortable about it. As if everything is against you.

I thought that it's good to remain innocent. Knowing too much don't do me good too. But it makes me feel selfish and not giving more care for others. Feeling a little contradicting. I know that being innocent I will still offer the help or support, whatever you call it. I give without expecting anything in return. Whereas knowing too much is a little different for me. I will still offer my 'help' but this time is with an intention, reasons and maybe more emotion in it. I will still choose innocent. Knowing too much just make things complicated and cause an undesired motion in myself. Does this mean that I am escaping from the reality? Or am I avoiding reality that cause negative impact on me and stop me from achieving other important, priority stuff?

Will You Benefit From Globalisation?

2009-10-16T22:16:00.000+08:00

Do you know what is affecting economies all over the world today?

Globalisation.

One of the effects we've seen in Singapore is that the Singapore Government has been actively promoting entrepreneurship in the recent years.

Do you know what is going on? Why does globalization have such a big impact on our lives? It's Competition.

We're going to share with some things that you may not have come across. Have you heard of the term 'Free Agent Nation'?

If you haven't, there's a book called 'Free Agent Nation' by Daniel H. Pink, and it says that the whole world is moving working for ourselves.

Let me ask you, Dan, in developed countries right now, Are we seeing more and more companies outsourcing their

departments? Are we seeing more companies hiring contract staff? (Contract staff meaning that if after half, one or two years, if I no longer need your service, I can legally say goodbye to you.)

Well, Dan, the people who are contract staff, they are actually free agents. They are no longer working for others. They are actually working for themselves. For example, if you are an accountant and you are a contract staff, when your contract ends, nobody else is responsible for your job. It is now up to YOU to go and find the next contract you can work on.

The whole world is actually shifting because of globalization. Are there also jobs that are moving out of the country? Yes. To where? To countries like China, India, Vietnam, Middle East, where else? It seems anywhere else but Singapore. (That's why we need to create not one but TWO IRs - Integrated Resorts.)

You see, Dan, globalization has a very big impact everywhere in the world. Initially, we thought it was only in this region. But while watching the news about the United States, where they did a documentary about what is going on, the fact is that the U.S. is also being affected. More and more jobs are moving out of their country to China and India as well.

Let us give you an example. If I have a product manufacturing plant in Singapore or The United States producing MP3 players,

versus I have a manufacturing plant in China producing MP3 players, do you think the costing is going to be different? Yes

or yes?

So in order for companies in Singapore and The United States to remain competitive, they have to constantly do what?

They have to look for ways to keep their costs very low.

What is one of the main costs factors in Singapore? Labour costs. That's why many companies are using key performance indexes (KPI). If you don't perform, you're out. It's no longer like before where they'll take care of you, yes?

We're seeing salaries more compressed than before. We're also seeing people getting retrenched at a younger age. We've met a guy who's only 25 years old and he's already been retrenched THREE TIMES. We're not joking. It is ridiculous. There are also many more examples of people who are being retrenched at their thirties, forties and fifties.

Globalisation is affecting everyone in the world. It brings about new opportunities for businesses as well as for people to work overseas as well. Still, overall, who do you think benefits more - companies or employees? We think it's the companies. Why? Because there are more and more people we can choose from to hire. Did you know that university graduates in China send their resumes to companies saying that they are willing to work for free for a month? The company can try them out first and choose to pay them only if they find them good. Isn't it a good deal for companies? Yes!

But what happens is that senior workers are finding it difficult to compete in terms of technological knowledge and salary price. Younger workers also have more energy and are willing to work longer hours because they don't have family commitments.

Where do you stand, Dan? Will you benefit or face challenges as a result of globalisation? Be aware about what is going around you and move with the changes.

You can create your life exactly the way you want it.

T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

Priceless Advice from Bill Gates & Warren Buffet

2009-10-07T06:35:00.000+08:00

This is so true. I have been doing this. Now, I am more assure from what they have said. Allow me to share what Victor Cheng has said.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I was watching a PBS special of Warren Buffet and Bill Gates sharing the stage while speaking to a group of college students - possibly the only time the two richest people in the world shared the advice giving stage at the same time.

There were two stories that I'd like to share with you today.

One of the students asked Bill Gates to recall the biggest mistakes of his career-which I thought was a great question.

Gates said one of the big mistakes was realizing the importance of the Internet very late in the game.

As you may recall, the growth of the Internet in the mid 1990's was NOT powered by Microsoft. It was being driven by Marc Andreesen, the inventor of the first web browser, and his company Netscape.

I remember the time very well.

Gates had one of his infamous "Think Weeks" where we locked himself in a retreat for 1 - 2 weeks -- no telephone calls, no email - with nothing but time to think.

He realized he totally missed the Internet opportunity.

The next day, he issued a company wide memo that pretty much said EVERY project and product in Microsoft had to incorporate the Internet.

Overnight, tends of thousands of Microsoft employees and tens of billions of dollars in R&D (the corporate equivalent of acquiring new skills) was now ear marked towards the Internet.

He spent billions acquiring third party companies with skillsand assets Microsoft did not have. Early on this included paying $400 million for Hotmail which formed the basis for MSN Hotmail.

Within 24 months, Microsoft pretty much terminated Netscape (not to mention got a whole bunch of anti-trust lawsuits in the process).

The lesson is this.

When you're chasing a new opportunity, especially one that you were ignoring previously, it's impossible to succeed without acquiring the new skills needed to succeed with that opportunity.

This is exactly what's going on with many entrepreneurs today. The recession has taken away opportunities that many business owners have grown accustomed to.

It is also creating NEW opportunities that many entrepreneurs are flat out overlooking and stubbornly insist on ignoring.

The problem is many entrepreneurs simply lack the skills to notice and take advantage of these opportunities.

This leads me to my second story.

On the same PBS special, Warren Buffet was asked what advice he would give to a new college graduate in terms of building a business or career.

His answer was very revealing:

INVEST IN YOURSELF

In his words, investing in yourself has an incredibly high return on investment.

Do you know where Warren Buffet learned to invest?

He learned from his college professor and mentor Benjamin Graham. After graduating from college, he begged and pleaded to work with Graham.

He interview for the job, got the job, accepted the job and never once asked for what the job paid. It wasn't until he got his first paycheck that he saw the amount.

But Buffet KNEW that this guy Graham could teach him how to be abetter investor.

Truth be told, he would have paid Graham to allow him to work under him just to have the opportunity to acquiring better investing skills.

Considering Warren Buffet today has a net worth of $40 billion or so, I'd say that Buffet got a pretty good deal.

Invest in yourself - advice from the 2nd richest man in the world... advice worth listening to.

If you have been reading between the lines of what Bill Gates and Warren Buffet do and advise, you see the vital role that acquiring new skills plays in being successful at the highest levels.

This is frankly an approach I firmly believe in and practice myself.

Over the past few years, I've invested over $200k in building my own skills. I go to seminars, conferences, speeches, and workshops. I invest in mentors and coaches. I invest in tons of books, home study programs, audio/video programs and more.

I have tons of bookshelves to house all this information. I rent storage facilities to store these skill building materials that don't fit on the shelf.

Keep in mind this does NOT include the investment I made in my wife's Harvard MBA (she's now a stay-at-home mom). It also does not include any of the education costs incurred when I attended Stanford.

It is my investment in myself in continuing education -- not because I'm required to - but because I personally find it easy to win in a competitive marketplace.

Early on in my career, this investment was not easy to pull off financially. I made a number of tradeoffs.

I only buy and drive used cars (can't stand a 10% depreciation loss on day #1 of owning a new car).

I wear a $19 watch with a plastic wrist band (it has a nightlight which is handy for checking in on the little ones when they're sleeping... and I can hold my 2 year old with my arm without the wrist band scratching her).

I buy a lot of my personal clothing at Costco like socks and t-shirts (though I do buy most my work related clothing from

Nordstroms)

I own a 10 year old Sony television (NOT a flat screen) - (If I had a flat screen, I'd be tempted to watch tv more.)

I am told that I'm very extreme in my habits. I suppose I am. But it is all driven by a very simple philosophy.

I will invest incredibly aggressively in anything that helps me win... which is very different than spending money on things that give me the appearance of winning without actually making a difference.

Everything else doesn't matter to me.

I figure if it works for Warren Buffet and worked for the late Sam Walton (founder of Wal-Mart), it works for me.

This type of philosophy seems to be coming back in vogue these days... and I predict will continue for some time.

But it has not always been easy to practice day to day. When I go workout at the gym, I always end up parking next to the guy with the Ferrari (I must admit it's a pretty sweet ride). I pull up in my 13 year old Toyota.

If someone ever broke into my home, they would be seriously disappointed. There isn't anything to steal - other than books that line 125 linear feet of book shelves.

My most valuable financial asset has always been my brain... in other words my skills. It is not that I'm especially gifted in any way. It's that I've made a very deliberate and conscious effort to acquire very valuable and useful skills -- the same kind of deliberate decision that anyone can make.

It is those skills that pay the bills. It is those skills that provide the financial future for my family. Everything in my

life as an entrepreneur revolves around and is built on the foundation of those skills.

It is the same skills that has given me (and by proxy my clients and even readers of this newsletter) perspective over the recession.

When others are in a state of massive panic, the people who work with me or follow my work benefit from a sense of calm based on a factual understanding of economic reality.... and yes, all of this at the end of the day comes from skills.

Based on these skills, I've found that the path to a better business for most entrepreneurs is fairly simple. The mistakes entrepreneurs are making in this recession are very common and unfortunately for many will be fatal.

It doesn't have to be this way, but most stubbornly insist on continuing to do what is NOT working.

Look the environment has changed.

The rules of the game have changed.

If you are not winning in this environment, then you are losing. There is very little middle ground.

If you don't have the skills needed to win, then go get them or quit. But whatever you do, don't just sit there doing nothing.That's the worst thing to do.

In a few weeks, I'll be introducing a new program to help entrepreneurs like you acquire the skills, confidence, and direction needed to build a growing and profitable business in a tough economic environment.

(Incidentally if you think the recession has been rough, wait till you see the "flat" recovery or the "double-dip" back-to-back recession.)

Certain business practices don't work in this kind of environment. Sloppily run business get killed in this environment. Don't be one of them.

The Best of Anthony Robbins 2008 Seminar

2009-10-01T21:40:00.000+08:00

Forget Everything And Run

2009-09-26T12:46:00.000+08:00

Timothy Ferris wrote that what we fear doing most is usually what we most need to do. It is the fear of unknown outcomes that prevents us from doing what we need to do. So I must define the worst case scenarios, accept it and do it.

His conversation can "cost" me $500 to listen

2009-09-23T23:21:00.001+08:00

In this interview Tony Robbins, successful speaker and motivator, meets with two very successful students, Frank Kern and John Reese. Both of them are self-made multi millionaires who made their fortunes by selling products on the Internet. What’s particularly interesting about both of them is that neither had any “real” education. Neither one finished college and they both went from being broke to becoming wealthy.

His interview is by far one of the most incredible & inspiring conversations , as it addresses some of the question I've had going on in my head.

John Reese sharing his success story to wealth

Are you open or close minded person

2009-09-15T23:22:00.005+08:00

I just don't get it. How can a person do business when he is self defense. Can he be successful? I am just wondering. If not how can he sustains in a company that long right. I mean it is not wrong to be self defense, I do sometime. But some are too extreme.

I experiences confronting such closed minded people. The moment they saw me, they already say they are not interested or they no need. No need what....?? I haven't even say a single word yet. They are brilliant and genius... know what I am going to say next. ha... Their self defense system are too strong. They just can't accept to change their old habit. Even it's a fact stated black and white. They simply can't change their mindset. And stay in their comfort zone. I doubt there aren't much growth in them. Of course, it's due to many reason they encounter in the past, the working environment they associate, their character, they fear of something or have a wrong perception of something. If you are one of them, take some time to evaluate yourself.

Ever since, I am expose to sale, I start to see things with an open mind. Somehow, I become more transparent and easy to approach stranger. While friends also start from stranger, don't you agree. :) I realize that with an open mind, I really learn a lot of things that are valuable. I see things in a different perspective and understand a lot of micro issue we don't always talk about it. As I like to quote this line, "When you start to understand, things around you being to change."

Jeff Bezos, Amazon CEO, talking about Amazon and Zappos

2009-09-14T01:32:00.007+08:00

An 8-minute video of Jeff Bezos, Amazon CEO, that give us some insight into his personality and his way of thinking. He shares some of what he’s learned as an entrepreneur, as well as some of the mistakes he’s made throughout his 15 years venture. He also talk a little about their partnership with Zappos which excite him.

Just in case you do not know who is Zappos yet, watch the video below to understand them better. Actually, I dream that one day I will own a company that has a similar culture like Zappos and Google.

A story of 2 monks crossing a river

2009-09-10T01:23:00.006+08:00

Two monks were crossing a river. Half way through the river, the older monk, who was walking in front, turned around and with both hands on the younger, shorter monk's head, pushed the younger monk's head under water. After letting the younger monk struggle frantically for a while, the older monk released the younger monk. The younger monk immediately jumped up, sputtering. Then the older monk asked the younger monk "During the time whilst you were under, were you trying your hardest and using whatever method you can think of to come up for air?"The younger monk answered, still heaving "But of course. It is a matter of my survival". The older monk said "If only you worked as hard in every facet of life, you would be extremely successful" and he turned around and continued walking.

With the courtesy of YozoraNiteSky

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Recently, I think deeply about this. Do I really need to experience a nasty fall back to wake myself up. I feel I have take things for granted. The above story is an example. When the surrounding harm or affect your life, then you start to develop the push, force, determination whatever you call it? Is it true that bad and unpleasant event got to happen on you, so that we will work harder for it and start to get desperate? Then soon you whine and question yourself, WHY Me? Does it has to work this way? I believe it does not but the fact is that many of this happen in most life. I guess I am also one of them. As we know brain is the most powerful organ. Our daily lifestyle and the way we do things and project ourselves depends on the individual's mindset.

Have the courage to be rich

2009-09-06T22:03:00.003+08:00

Hi Dan!

Thank you for all your replies. We really enjoyed your participation and it's heartwarming to see so many people with the passion and drive to become an entrepreneur. For those who took a'ction to send us an email to share with us 'Why you want to be a successful entrepreneur', we want to acknowledge you, because Dan, we know it takes courage to be s'uccessful.

(By the way, Dan,rest assured we mean it when we say that your information is strictly private and confidential. Integrity is the essence of everything and we mean what we say.)

Based on our past experience, common reasons why people want to become s'uccessful entrepreneurs are:

-to be w'ealthy

-to have f'reedom, i.e. f'inancial f'reedom

-to be able to share and make a difference in people's lives

-to create value in their community

-to make m'oney doing what they're passionate about

-to have an early retirement

-to be famous

-to be very powerful

-to help the poor

Do any of these look familiar to you?

Two things we'd like to share with you Dan, are:

1)When you set a goal, it has to be specific. For example, if you say you want to be wealthy, specifically how wealthy do you want to be? How much money must you have in your bank account? You want to make a million dollars? in what currency? Euros, pounds, rupiah? By when does this have to happen? Be as specific as possible because the clearer you are about what you want and why you want it, the quicker the universe can help you to manifest your heart's desire.

2)A lot of people say they want to help others. But to be able to do that, you must first of all be able do what?

You must be able to help yourself.

Dan, what we've learned is: "We don't serve the world by playing small." If we play small Dan, we're actually being very selfish. Think about it. By playing small, we are only serving our self. But if we play bigger, we can serve the world in a bigger way. Isn't that true,

Dan?

Before we sign off, we'd like you to just reflect a little bit on your behaviour, because games are a reflection of your behaviour. When we asked you to send us an email to share with us 'Why you want to be a successful entrepreneur', what was going through your mind? Really think about this for a moment because it could be what is stopping you from achieving greater success and joy. Dan, if you did not send us a reply, ask yourself why you are not participating? Why are you not able to take the courage to do so? Is it because you are shy? Being shy won't get you too rich. That is why we're very very good at helping entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs-to-be get rid of their face issue. Face issue tends to be one of our greatest blocks. We'll talk about that the next time.

Here's a recap:

*How specific does your goal have to be?

As clear as possible.

*Before you can help others, you must be able to what?

Help Yourself.

*We don't serve the world by playing what?

Small.

*Games are very often a reflection of our what?

Behaviour.

We look forward to sharing with you again soon.

You can create your life exactly the way you want it.

T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

Publish Your Book With No Money Down

2009-09-05T23:00:00.001+08:00

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

Recap:

1)Find good partners to work with. Find partners who have various skill sets in business, who can help complement your own set of skills.

2)You can learn how to make money even before setting up a business bank account.

3)You can incorporate your business without paying a single cent.

4)It is possible for you to start a business with $52 and still generate millions.

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

Hi Dan!

Would like to find out how to publish a book with no money down?

Previously, we shared some insights to expand your reality about what you know about business. Now, we'd like to share with you in detail how we published a book with no money down so that you can do it too.

We've made more than $100,000 out of thin air by selling over 10,000 copies of this book, each at $9.90, all with no money down!

The best thing is this: the book wasn't even designed or written and we had already generated revenue. Think about this. The book is not even written, and there's already income flowing in. How do you do that? Ask yourself, how do you do that?

Good! You're thinking.

Common answers people come up with is we sold it on the internet or we sold it to our friends. Those are possible answers.

Here's what we actually did:

We sold space in the book. Is it possible to sell space in a book, Dan? Yes. But you're probably thinking: "Yes. But how? How exactly did you do it? I want the details."

First, we created an order form. Next, we wrote down a few sample quotes - a few examples of inspirational quotes. By the way, the book is named '365 Inspirations'. There's an inspirational quote for each day in a year. The first edition is sold out and the second edition is almost sold out as well. Anyway, what we did was talk to a few people, those who run or own establishments. One of them was a restaurant owner (you can see his advertisement in the first edition of '365 Inspirations'). He runs a Cantonese Cuisine Restaurant and when we approached this owner, we asked him: "Do you invest in advertising and marketing?"

Think about it, if it's a relatively large restaurant chain, do you think they do advertising and marketing? Yes! So we asked him: "How much do you invest in marketing each month?"

He says: "$8000 - $15,000 a month."

We asked him: "Where do you normally advertise?"

And he says "Primarily in the newpapers, sometimes in a

magazine."

So we asked him: "If you advertise in a newspaper, how long will your advertisement last? One day, right? Do you know how many people actually cut out your restaurant advertisement?"

He said: "Hardly."

We said: "Well, some people will cut it out. Do you know why? To wrap their vegetables and put in the fridge!" (My mother used to do that.)

Next, we asked him a very important question loaded with benefits:

1)Would you like to find out how you can find a more

cost-effective advertising mode?

2)This advertisement will last for the rest of your life and the

other person's life and

3)Your customers will love you for it.

If you were the restaurant owner, would you be keen to find out what it is? Yes or no? Yes! What he said was: "Tell me more.

What is this about?"

So we said: "We're coming out with a book, called '365 Inspirations' where there's an inspirational quote, one for each day. Now, if you put one page of advertisement, we're going to

give you 1,000 books for FREE."

You may think that he said yes because the market value of 1,000 books is $10,000 and he would have made money selling the book, but he didn't. He says: "I'm not in the business of selling books."

But we said: "I haven't finished yet. You put one page of advertisement, but it will appear in 10,000 copies! because we intend to publish 10,000 copies of this book."

Still he says "But what am I going to do with the book? It's true that it will last forever, but what am I going to do with it?"

Let me ask you Dan, would you throw away an inspiration book you've received? No! You may even pass it around to your loved ones. So we reply him: "Ok, you have 1,000 books. If your customer spends $100 with you in one evening, what you can do is this - at the end of the meal, go up to them and say: 'Thank you for patronizing our restaurant. To show you our appreciation, here is a '365 Inspirations' book that will inspire you and your loved ones.'" Dan, if you are the one receiving the gift, will you remember the restaurant better?

Absolutely!

So he says: "Yeah.. why didn't I think of that?"

So we asked: "Do you want to take one page of advertisement?"

And guess what, he said: "Sure!"

Deal closed.

After that, we sold pages of the book to a few other advertisers and we published the book. All the first edition books are sold and we only have two left - one in Singapore, one in Malaysia. For the second edition, we sold 5,000 copies of the book even before we designed it.

Dan, we've just given you an idea that helped us generate more than $100,000. Don't we deserve a big round of applause?

Thank you, thank you.

So, Dan, is it possible for you to start off anything with little or no money? Yes!

Ok Dan, own up. In your mind, is there a second voice, the voice we call Yada-Yada? What's this voice called again?

(Yada-Yada)

Your Yada-Yada is going: "Sure... you can, but I can't."

Dan, let me tell you, if you always listen to what your Yada-Yada says, you will not go very far in life. Because Dan, by now you should have realised that there are certain skill sets in business that you can learn. And once you're able to do it, you can start off many businesses with little or no money. Later on, we'll share with you what are some of the metaphysical of business you have to learn.

Having said so much, Dan, now it's your turn. You promised us to participate fully, yes? Don't worry, it's very simple. Just hit your 'Reply' button now and send us an email to share with us "Why Do You Want To Be A Successful Entrepreneur?"

"What do you want more of in your life?" "What do you want to achieve?" We respect you privacy and promise to keep your information strictly private and confidential.

If your Yada-Yada is telling you not to do it, Dan, say to it: "Thank you for sharing." Think about it Dan, all great accomplishments started with a dream. By taking action to write down your goals and dreams, you move one step closer to manifesting them into reality instead of only storing them in your head. All we want is for you to get out of your comfort zone so that you can be more and achieve more in your life.

You can create your life exactly the way you want it.

T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

P.S. By just stepping out of your comfort zone and improving yourself by just 1% each day, you'll be able to add more value to your customers and people around you. When that happens Dan, we guarantee that your wealth and happiness will continuously flow to you in abundance.

Can You Run 7 Businesses?

2009-09-04T08:00:00.001+08:00

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

Recap:
1)Am I happy with the results in my life?

2)If I continue doing what I'm doing now, when will I ever become a millionaire/f.inancially free?

3)What are some of the beliefs I have about business and are they necessarily true?

4)What are some of the beliefts I have about being an employee and are they necessarily true?

5)Is starting a business with little or no money impossible or is it that you just don't know how?
============================================================

Hi Dan!

How have you been? Did you discover something about yourself while answering the questions above? Share them with us. We'd like to know.

Dan, do you wonder how we manage to run 7 businesses? I know that sometimes, it can seem so impossible and hard to imagine. You see, Dan, I didn't grow up with entrepreneurial parents. My dad was a police man until he retired and my mum was a housewife, so I didn't have the privilege of having someone to teach me what doing business was about while I was growing up.

Fortunately, we've been blessed to meet mentors and business partners who've helped guide us through the process and saved us time and money by showing us how to avoid expensive and costly mistakes. Hopefully by sharing our experiences and ideas with you, you'll gain some insights and distinctions that will challenge your previous ways of thinking, make you go "Aha!" and accelerate you towards creating your own destiny.

We have a restaurant in KL (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) called Wendy's Bistro. I'm a Singaporean, but my restaurant is in KL. The reason is because we found very good partners in Malaysia. One of them is a very good chef and another one is somebody who had been working with KFC, understanding the whole franchise and helping KFC to find good locations and set up the whole operations. Dan, is it important to find good partners with various skill sets in business? Yes! We may not know everything about F&B, but we can still have a restaurant! So
it's important to find good partners to work with and because of that, the restaurant is doing relatively well. We even had to turn customers away because of the restaurant was full house. Our goal is really to franchise out this business.

Another business we have is an online business. It's called My Gratitude Rock. Are you keen on having an online business? You may want to visit www.mygratituderock.com and have a look. It's an online marketing portal and same thing, we started this business with no money down. In fact we generated $90,000 even before we set up the corporate bank account. Would you like to make money even before you set up your corporate bank account? Dan, there are many things that can be done, you just need to know how to.

The other business we started up with is a table soccer business. We're a distributor for a top of the range football table and we have tables in SAFRA, army camps, clubs, condos, pubs, instituitions like Singapore Polytechnic and various other locations. We started this business with one of our graduates and it's a passive income business. Even as I type this, when someone else is playing the game, I can hear ka-ching ka-ching ka-ching, the sound of coins rolling in. Do you want passive income, Dan? Again, this business we started with little or no
money down - we didn't even pay a single cent to incorporate the business. I know you might be looking at me and saying: "Are you sure it can be done?" Yes, sure it can be done. Do you want to know how? We barter traded for it.

A business we're very passionate about is Executive Directions. We're personally very passionate about education and we've run small events, we've run big events. One of the larger events we've run is the largest class-room style event run . It was held in the Singapore Indoor Stadium, with Dr Vivian Balakrishnan (Singapore Minister), as our guest of honour. We've also marketed smaller scale events like Money and You, Anthony Robbins, Robert Kiyosaki, Brian Tracy and Linda Chandler. By the way, Dan, this business we only started with $52 and we've generated millions since.

And of course, something we're very passionate about is our own proprietary program. It's called the Entrepreneur Action Program. For the past four years, we are in the business of
creating entrepreneurs. We've created many entrepreneurs. Most of them, they were able to start it off with little or no money and generated profits within the shortest period of time. The
reason why many people don't make it in business is because they don't understand what business is about. Dan, is it important nowadays to have a different mindset, running your business in the new economy using lateral thinking, vs traditional thinking? We've created many success stories. 4 of our graduates achieved the spirit of enterprise award in 2004 and 2005, and 5 of our graduates were nominees in 2006.

Another business we run is CareerExpress. This is another no money down business, a recruitment company. It is run by a team of our graduates. If you see our profile, we are already into big multinational companies, government organizations and so on.

We've also done quirky things like bringing the Tallest Book Tower from overseas into Singapore with no money and putting it to exhibition and generating profit from there. Another no money down idea.

Have we challenged some of the myths about starting and running your business, Dan? Sometimes, Dan, all it takes is for you to expand your reality to see that many things can be done. But if you've always only been an employee, working for other people, you probably have to go through a process, just like I did, to experience for yourself what starting a business with little or no money is like for you to really discover the possibilities of generating millions with your business. It is possible for you, Dan. You just need to know how to.

To recap,
1)Find good partners to work with. Find partners who have various
skill sets in business, who can help complement your own set of
what?

Skills.

2)You can learn how to make money even before setting up a business bank account.

3)You can incorporate your business without paying a single
what?

Cent.

4)You can start a business with $52 and still generate how much?

Millions.

Thank you for your participation, Dan. You've been a fantastic audience. Please give yourself a big round of applause.

You can create your life exactly the way you want it. T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

Master your hunches.

2009-09-03T13:00:00.000+08:00

Listen. Listen to your body when it speaks. It's the most effective early warning system in your World, and it will never lie to you. Truth is the only language it knows. And if you choose to ignored it, if the biofeedback that's been sent to save your life on deaf ears.

Is Entrepreneurship For You, Dan?

2009-08-28T23:07:00.003+08:00

After I the preview, the same day. I register for the newsletter from the Executive Direction. This is the second mail i receive so far. I want to share this with someone who will benefit from reading this.

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Hi Dan!

Are you currently working for people? Self-employed? A business owner? Or do you fall under the category 'Others' - i.e. transition, retired, still schooling? No matter where you are right now, have you noticed that the trend is moving towards entrepreneurship? Does it make you wonder whether entrepreneurship is for you?

The reason we ask is because we now own 7 businesses - But if you were to ask me 7 years ago, why don't you run your own business? I would say "I don't think so" because I was very comfortable in a corporate job, working for others for 8 years. By sharing my story with you, I hope it'll answer some of the questions you may have in your mind about working as an employee for the rest of your life, versus becoming an entrepreneur.

I was a headhunter before and after that I worked in a Fortune 500 company for 5 years, doing relatively well. Why? Because in 5 years, I was promoted 5 times. Quite impressive? Yes. But let me ask you Dan, in a corporate job, when you get promoted, do your responsibilities get heavier? Yes? Does your salary double? No! So can you imagine what happens when you get promoted again, and again, and again...?

In the last global position I was in, I realised I was traveling 50%-80% of the time, and I worked 7 days a week, just to catch up! Because the thing is this, Dan, if you want to progress in the corporate world, you have to be committed. You've got to prove yourself.

So one day while I was driving back to office, on a SUNDAY MORNING, I started asking myself some serious questions. I asked myself: "Wendy, why are you working so hard? ...and what happens if you get promoted just one more time? No Life! Zero, right?

But I must say I was very fortunate - because during the f'inancial crisis, I was in the corporate world and I was treated relatively well. My c'ompensation was very very good, but I chose to step out because I needed a break. I needed to think about my life, so I stepped out.

For 3 months I didn't do anything, I traveled around the world on my own expense to just chill out and learn about other things that I was interested in and wanted to do.

Isn't it true, Dan, that while you're in a job, sometimes, you just don't seem to have the time to do what you want to do?

Anyway, subsequently I became an independent consultant. I found a company that was looking for an independent consultant and I joined them getting paid only based on commission. Within 6 months, I did relatively well - generated SGD$1.2million for them and their commission to me was SGD$250,000. Is that relatively good compensation? Yes! (It was definitely much better than what I was getting in the corporate world.) And I told myself this - "Wendy, you're going to become a m'illionaire soon!"

But then there was a problem.

Let me ask you, Dan, if you are representing a training and consultancy company as an independent consultant, can the company change the terms overnight, yes or no? Yes! And that's precisely what happened.

The company, they very quickly told me, they said: "Wendy, I think we've paid you too much. We've never paid anyone as much as we've paid you in the last 15 years. Furthermore, we cannot cope with all the deals you've brought in. So from now on, we're not going to pay you." They ended up not paying up fully, whatever they owed me.

I was just being kicked out.

I was like "What?!" At that time I had a lot of commitments. I was a typical Singaporean - You make one d'ollar, you spend what?

MORE than one d'ollar.

I was already driving a red BMW, staying in a brand new condominium, playing golf every other day, and I thought that based on the fact that if I could generate a quarter of a million within six months, I could become a millionaire in no time. That was my mindset.

However, within four months of being kicked out, I went so broke that the bank called me and said: "Wendy, we have to repossess your car. We have to take away some of the things that you have AND we may have to take legal proceedings against you to make you a bankrupt."

I never knew I could get so close to becoming a bankrupt and I started to think to myself: "What should I do? What should I do?" I could easily go back to a job, which most people would do, but fortunately, I started to attend free seminars like the ones I conduct now, hoping to find a solution to change my life and to at least upgrade my life. (Have you ever attended such talks before with the same intentions?)

Anyway, I went for some talks, hoping I could change my life. Very fortunately for me, I was seated next to somebody who was a total stranger to me at that time, at one of the seminars, because what he said to me that day has played a significant role in my success today. That's how mentors can help you. They help you to see things from a different point of view and change the way you think.

He said: "What are you doing right now? Would you like to go for the program?"

So I said "It sounds very good, I want to go, but I don't have the money!"

He asked me "Why? What happened?" and after sharing my story with him, he said: "Hey Wendy, why don't you start your own business?"

By then I was starting to get upset and I said: "I can't start my own business because I don't have m'oney."

And he asked me: "Who told you that you need m'oney to start a business?"

I said: "Hello, which planet are you from? Who told you that you don't need money to start a business? By the way, don't 'play play', I'm a finance graduate, you know, from a local university." (I was very proud of then.. I'm not very proud of it now, but I used to be.) I majored in finance and I said,

=> "There's no such thing as starting a business with no m'oney."

That's when he said something I'll never forget: "Ahh... no wonder... No wonder you're like many graduates out there - with a square hat and also square brains - you don't know how to think outside the box, don't know how to do things differently." He said: "There are many ways you can do it, maybe you just don't know how to."

Then I asked him "How about you? What are your paper qualifications?

He said, "I have 2 'O' levels - one for my left eye, one for my right eye, so that I can see things clearer."

And I said: "Huh? Ok.. so what is it? What do you do now?"

And he said: "I'm f'inancially free."

But, he said, a couple of years ago, he actually went bankrupt. He went into a resort business which failed and that's when he woke up and told himself: "I shouldn't run my businesss in a traditional way anymore. I must be able to do things differently from others."

So he went to educate himself and he told me this: "Wendy, if you're serious about being successful, the very first thing you need to do is to educate yourself."

Do you consider education to be important, Dan? Yes. But he says, "It's not about academic education. Academic education will get you a job, self-education will get you rich. Which one is better?"

There's another saying by Jerry Clark, a famous speaker from the United States, he says this: "Your income will seldom exceed what you invest in your own personal development." and along the way, I'll share with you how this has proven true for us and for many successful people as well.

Anyway, subsequently after that talk with the gentleman, I partnered with him and for the past six years now, he's been my business partner. We've continued in our partnership, all 7 businesses, and all these 7 businesses, we started with little or no money.

The reason why we are a proponent of starting business with little or no m'oney is because there are many people out there who start business with m'oney and they lose m'oney.

We know from personal experience that it's very painful when you lose m'oney. Isn't it true, Dan, that losing m'oney tends to affect your relationship with loved ones and all other areas of your life? No matter what, when you lose m'oney, it affects all areas of your life and so we decided to do something that can help people start off their business with very very low risk so that they can maximize their potential. We're happy to say this has proven true for many of our graduates and we're blessed because our program has produced 4 Spirit of Entreprise Awardees and 5 Nominees since 2004.

Now, Dan, we're not here to ra-ra you about business. It does have its challenges. In fact, when I first started, my parents were against it. They said business is very risky and dangerous. But today I give them a generous red packet during Chinese New Year and even bring them for holidays and now, they are so proud and happy to tell their friends that their daughter is in business.

Dan, it doesn't matter whether you're currently working for others, self-employed, a business owner or in transition right now. If you're not happy with the results in your life, choose to do something different and see what happens.

Do you remember that you promised that you would participate, Dan? Here's your chance now. Dan, please take out a piece of paper and write down the answers to these questions right now:

1) Am I happy with the results in my life?

2) If I continue doing what I'm doing now, when will I ever become a millionaire/f.inancially free?

3) What are some of the beliefs I have about business and are they necessarily true?

4) What are some of the beliefts I have about being an employee and are they necessarily true?

5) Is starting a business with little or no money impossible or is it that you just don't know how?

Be sure to answer these questions for yourself and we'll see you again soon Dan!

You can create your life exactly the way you want it. T'ake A'ction N'ow!

Wendy & Jerome

P/S. Have you downloaded and read the Free Report: 'Journey Towards Creating Wealth' yet? If not, download it here

=> Click here

P/P/S. Be sure to take action, Dan. Life will always r'eward action takers. Participate and play full out.

Entrepreneurial action program

2009-08-25T21:43:00.006+08:00

I attended the free two hours Entrepreneurial Action Program (eap) preview today. Indeed, it's a very inspiring and useful program for those who really want to start your own business. I am sure the program will benefit you and will add value to your life. Although, I have not register and graduated from this action oriented program, I know it definitely add value to life. Why? Because I have already learn something valuable from the 2 hours preview and the seminar talk by Wendy I attended last week. I will seriously recommend anyone who want to be an entrepreneur, want to start own business or even just want learn some new skill and add value to own life. Of course, the 2 hours is not enough, there are still more to learn and execute from the program. I guess I have to earn my cash first. I am unable to support the fee myself at this moment. And I will not disclose the fee until you attend the preview yourself. It's worth it. I think this program will become my wish-list. I belief Executive Direction will continue to conduct EAProgram in future if not it will not been here for the past seven years, helping 50 batches of graduates to success.

A CD I received from the seminar

Allow me to share some of my take away from the event:

Entrepreneurial skill set and mindset can be learn.
Entrepreneurial is just like a sport. You train, learn and most importantly have a coach to guide you. Clive say,"practice don't makes perfect if you practice in the wrong direction without the right guidance "(: Something along the line :)
When you still have the energy, be pro active.
They created a system. Do you want to be in the system? Or do you want to run and own the system?
Keep an open mind | Tab into the right network | Willing to experiment the share idea.
Do not be afraid to ask for resources you want.
Business engine (create cash flow) & Investment engine(then multiply cash flow).
[1. Skill 2. knowledge 3. Experience } Metaphysical of business
The life will always reward action taker.
Your network is your net-worth.
It's not What you know, it's Who you know.
Theory itself is useless, without action.

Thoughts and Action

2009-08-23T14:04:00.001+08:00

Only strong people who force their actions to control their thoughts, rather than just allowing their thoughts to control their actions. Everything is in our own mindset. It's a very powerful tool.

Your business or your work..

2009-08-18T22:36:00.001+08:00

"Your business or your work is not your life. Your business is just a vehicle to allow you achieving what’s far more important to you in life. Owning a business properly will allow you to have near-passive income that enables you to pursue your passions (I don’t take “But my passion is my business” reasoning - Trust me, when your passion or hobby is becoming your business, you’ll eventually lose interest in it.)"

I think about the statement for a few days. Very deep thinking. I still can't really understand or fully agree to it. Especially, this line,"I don't take, but my passion is my business" I belief you got to be passionate for what you do in business in order for you operate your biz. I guess this line apply to different situation at different place. Recently, I read a book, a little black book of entrepreneur. One of the chapter state that, "a true entrepreneur is one who start a business with motive and with motivation." You got to have the will and be enthusiasm.

Nothing to lose

2009-08-12T23:41:00.005+08:00

Nothing is wrong with you if you do not know. But something is truly wrong if you say I don't know. There are so many information out there. So much things to learn in the World. Learning just don't stop after you graduated from high school or University. A never ending journey. What matter most is, do you learn from the 'don't know' question? Do you make an effort to find out the answer. I am sure people respect you more by providing and educate them with information, fact and at the same time you are gaining the knowledge. People do business with you because of this too. Because of your honesty, trust and work you put in. This is a win-win situation. In fact, you gain more than you give. Think about it. Remember do not say you don't know and escape from reality. Whether prospect make business is one things, most importantly is what do you learn from it.

Entrepreneurial Mindset

2009-08-12T22:42:00.001+08:00

The Vision, goal, objective. Your Dreams.

2009-08-10T21:36:00.002+08:00

Being self motivated is vital. Without it, how can you fulfill your Dreams right? Of course there are many other substances that work out to make you successful. And I will like to categories the entire substances under Attitude. Well, well, well, back to the topic I going to talk about. In life, do you feel your desire in something is lacking, be it in your job, school or your hobbies... anything.? You feel so lost, going nowhere and no purposes in life. You feel extreme useless and stress! Ok, this is the worst scenario I can go so far. Come on, cheer up and be positive dude.

The possible reason I can think of why a person behave in this negative way is because he has not really, firmly, seriously do his planning. Plan on what he wants to achieve in his career for example. ha ha, yea I am talking about planning here again. But now I will elaborate on it.

PLAN☞ Vision, Goals, Objective

They are all interlink. They have to work hand in hand and be United as one. Let me further explain.

Vision

' The power of imagination for future '

It helps us to focus on the intention and pay attention to what we have visualize for our future. In other words, it act as our Mission Statement.

✏E.g. To become the World Mr Bodybuilder 2009.

Goals

' The state of affair where a person or a system plan to achieve '

Goals is set to align with the vision. A desire and intention that put into an action to achieve it. Goals give you clarity, motivation and direction. It can be a short term goals or personal goals.

✏E.g. I will attain a well build body shape; gain 5 pounds of muscle; build arms to 17 flexed; lose body-fat by 20%.

Objectives

' A specific point in a plan, a waypoint along the journey '

Objective is more specific than goal. A number of tasks have to be done in order to reach the goal.

✏E.g. I will exercise 3 to 4 times a week. I will do strength training for an hour. I will have a proper and healthy diet daily. etc

Vision generally have more clarity than dream. Once your vision is accomplish, your Dream will be fulfill later.

3 Key Strategies to Stop Sabotaging Yourself

2009-08-09T21:54:00.005+08:00

This is a great articles by Bria. The 3 strategies that you must know to help you continue reaching your Dreams. Ok, I know you might feel the content below sound familiar. But she has convey the message in a different way.

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Many people, who are on the verge of a breakthrough, teeter between two divergent paths. One is the path of staying exactly where they are - stuck in old routines, old patterns, and a life that is missing something substantial. The other path is a breakthrough into the life they really want.

The goal is for people to make breakthroughs into more authentic power and profit - with balance. The authenticity is what connects them to their soul. Working part-time and taking plenty of vacations is what allows for the balance.

But to get there, you have to be willing to stop getting in your own way! Read on for 3 key strategies to stop sabotaging yourself.

Tip #1 - Stop listening to "others" and turn up the volume of your own authentic voice. "Others", who hold you back, may be a spouse, friends, a relative, even some well-intentioned coaches. And they are welcome to their opinions. They are on their own journey and it's easy for people to confuse their journeys with yours. But don't let that stop you! Turn down their volumes.

Trust your intuition and follow the path, and the people, that will lead you to more profit, more authentic power and more fulfillment.

Tip #2 - Understand that fear and doubt are an opportunity for a breakthrough. You must experience fears before you have a breakthrough. It's how you know that growth is just around the corner.

When you feel fear (or terror) in the face of an opportunity that initially feels really exciting, recognize that you have a choice- stay stuck OR take advantage of an opportunity that is on your spiritual path for growth. Which one do you want? I can tell you that when I've chosen the opportunities that excited yet scared me- my income sky-rocketed and my soul thrived.

Tip #3 - Stop trying to "be perfect" and wanting to "know it all right now". Wanting to "be perfect" and wanting to "know it all right now" holds a LOT of people back. "Perfect" doesn't exist, so the sooner you let that go, the better. (All successes have unexpected curves along the way). And you can't know it ALL right now. Nobody does- ever. All brilliant businesses started with ideas, baby steps and learning along the way!

Let go of "perfection", discard the urge to know it all right now, and invest in the right opportunity for growth. That is the path I, and other successful entrepreneurs, have taken to reach much higher profit and fulfillment- with soul.

By Bria Simpson

Entrepreneurship can change the WORLD

2009-08-08T13:20:00.004+08:00

The way Grasshopper presented their idea in this video is very interesting, fun and inspire. There are many messages they want to bring across to people. Very meaningful.

Global Entrepreneurship Week in Tennessee

2009-08-07T21:34:00.002+08:00

This is a great event for those wannabe entrepreneurs. I like the session where students are able to interact with the been there entrepreneurs.

Plan less, act more

2009-08-04T15:01:00.005+08:00

"You don't have to know What you're doing. Where you're going or How to get there. You just need to move, and know WHY you're moving..."

Does this sound familiar to you. Most of the time, this happen on us. No matter how much effort you put in planning phase, things just don't turn out what you want it to be. What you gain is nothing. What you might regret is the precious time you spent on planning. The scenario here is a little different. Yes, we did planning and execute out accordingly. The point I want to bring across here is that too much of planning is bad or too much action is not good too. There must be a balance between this two. Frankly speaking, I learn that there should be a more action than planning. I believe we all make mistakes and encounter unforeseen circumstances along the way. Eventually, we change our strategies and figure out a solution to the problem. Thus, over plan in the initial is kind of redundant.

Passion mobil

2009-08-03T15:29:00.004+08:00

Initially, he started out working in sale line. Then distributing flyers and advertise his service. I just got curious how Mr K. established his business; his car grooming services. Although, i did not manage to arrange an appointment with him but I learn more on his experiences. And share with each other thoughts. He is a 'N' level holder. I advice him to take part time study. He said most of the school don't accept him because he must have a minimum an 'O' level cert. Sad to hear that. We have to face the reality. I understand that it's will be a waste of time for him to retake 'O'. He has much more important issue to handle and solve. Family to look after. But still I respect for who he is now, for what he has achieve now. Although, not a big company, at least he is able to sustain his business for so long, survive through the financial crisis and provide necessities to his family. He says, "PASSION is the most important substances one must have"... in order to move far. You will ~~work~~ enjoy 24/7 even you are at home. You might even earn($600) lesser than your employee. No annual bonus. You are an entrepreneur... No I am an entrepreneur in a layman term.

"Meet people and experiences where they are. Hold them in your awareness while their essence silently speaks to you "

Rich VS Poor

2009-08-01T16:07:00.000+08:00

The 3 pillars of entrepreneurship

2009-07-30T16:58:00.003+08:00

The 3 pillars of entrepreneurship.

Research, research and research.
Execute; action speak louder than words.
Commitment, beliefs and perseverance.

Sound simple harr... but not easy to take action. Again, most people fail at phrase 2. However, it can be done if individual put his heart and soul towards his dream.

Entrepreneurship in India

2009-07-29T22:42:00.002+08:00

It's doesn't matter...

2009-07-28T23:38:00.001+08:00

It's doesn't matter you are knowledgeable, because Attitude count first. :)

Four basic sales tips

2009-07-27T18:42:00.016+08:00

I just can't stop emphasizing how important that we don't sell the products or services to the prospects or customers first. Initially, I never know about all this until my mentor taught me about it. I was enlightened by his speech. Perhaps, business do involve physiology. hurr..? First of all, we have to tune to the right mindset. Building a rapport with your prospects is essential and critical. How can we build it? Simple; Be a good listener and response to them. Isn't it logical to understand your prospect problems and needs before introducing your service/ products to solve their problems?

The thinking goes that since people are more likely to buy from people they know and trust, the sale will naturally follow. This statement is so true, I am a live example. Do you buy insurance? I mean any type of insurance from cars to house to life and more. I always don't entertain insurance agent and reject them on the street. I have a childhood friend, Stedson, who is a insurance and financial consultant. Because of the trust and the more than 10 years friendship, I feel more comfortable talking and listening to him. Of course the outcome is still your decision to purchase it or not. Do you think I will approach him again for other products after the first one?

I read this biz articles today from businessweek and find it very true and relevant to sales people and entrepreneurs in any industries. Because I did it before and secure an appointment. The below are the 4 simple steps that help us make sales by Carmine Gallo.

1. Paraphrase your customer. Repeating what you hear lets the customer know that she has been heard. It also minimizes mistakes, which is important in any service industry where a customer has a list of tasks to accomplish. When done correctly, paraphrasing saves you and customers a lot of aggravation, says Martens, citing numerous mishaps avoided at the service counter.

2. Ask discovery questions. Martens teaches his trainees to ask questions to help identify the customers' real needs and wants. In the automobile industry, it is not uncommon for people to drive away with a different car than they had originally wanted. For example, a woman who had just moved from Washington to California wanted to buy a convertible to enjoy the sun. Emotionally, it made sense. But when the sales associate asked her a series of questions—including what she would use the car for—he soon learned the woman was a CPR trainer and had not considered the fact that she would have to carry around five mannequins. The sales associate provided educated feedback; the woman drove away in a small SUV instead. "When asking discovery questions, it's important to start with 'low-trust' questions before moving to 'high-trust' " cautions Martens. An example of a low-trust question is, "What brings you in today?" A high-trust question is "What do you do for a living?" For the conversation to work, the seller must earn the right to move the relationship forward.

3. Observe body language. Martens advises sellers to pay attention to what a customer's body language is communicating. In one example he recounted, a prospect was anxious and seemed hurried. By asking discovery questions, the sales associate learned she had only limited time before she had to pick up her kids from day care. By learning this, the salesperson could plan to give her a condensed explanation and schedule a follow-up appointment.

4. Jot down notes. Finally, Martens urges attendees at his courses to take extensive notes to facilitate the next conversation. Customers are communicating a lot of information about their preferences with each conversation. Keep tabs on it. For example, you might learn that a particular customer is more concerned about safety than power. In the next conversation, come armed with information, statistics, and stories about the product's safety and dependability.

ROI Marketing For Your Business: Using your website to drive top-line growth

2009-07-27T11:43:00.003+08:00

This is a very interesting and resourceful presentation slide. If you understand and apply to your biz, it will brings great help to your business revenue.

View more documents from James Hutto.

On my way home...

2009-07-24T23:13:00.005+08:00

On my way home, I was thinking about initialing a conversation with my prospect. Most of the time, I realize that my prospect wanted to know more about my service or products I can offer to them. But because of my sudden presence they are not prepared to ask and construct a in depth question that relate to the problem that the company are facing. Second, they might be busy with their work and have no time to seriously consider about the services I am providing. Thirdly, they are still unfamiliar with me, which I have mention in the past entry before. It is important to grab the opportunity whenever there is a chance to initial a conversation. What I mean by that, is to question your prospects with the relevant substances in it. This creates an awareness to him/her, causing them to reconsider and think about it. Thus, more conversation between us develop. While some don't. But still it's a good start. They might call you some day or engage with me in my services the next time i visit them again. This is a way of creating an opportunity than waiting for opportunities. Don't you think so? =)

Entrepreneurial Singaporeans

2009-07-22T23:50:00.002+08:00

Singaporean SME (small and medium enterprise) leaders also have a pretty high appetite for taking risks to grow their business. -- PHOTO: BT

AND the entrepreneurial spirit of Singaporeans lives on. A recent survey has shown that despite the global economic downturn, Singaporeans are still relatively willing to take career risks compared with other markets.

Singaporean SME (small and medium enterprise) leaders also have a pretty high appetite for taking risks to grow their business. These trends are especially true of those aged between 20 and 40 years old.

Swiss Re, one of world's largest reinsurance companies, surveyed almost 5,000 consumers and business leaders across eight Asia Pacific countries earlier this year, to measure their risk appetites in the current recession. The countries include Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Cjina, Malaysia, India and Australia.

The first-of-its-kind study, conducted mostly online between January and March, found that Singaporeans were most willing to swop a stable job for a stab at setting up shop.

More than 20 per cent of 400 Singapore respondents said they preferred the challenge and opportunity of running their own business over sticking with a stable income.

'This is evidence of a strong entrepreneurial spirit,' said Ms Sharon Ooi, director of client markets at Swiss Re, as job security should logically be most important for young adults in view of the current deterioration of the job market.

And out of 100 Singaporean SME leaders surveyed, 48 said they saw business opportunities in the current financial crisis, and were willing to take growth risks. This put Singapore as the second most growth-hungry country after China.

Singaporeans also came in joint second place with Hong Kong - just behind Australia - having the highest proportion of respondents (43 per cent) who would give up the security of working for an established firm to join a smaller one - if it meant better pay or faster growth prospects.

But when it comes to personal risk appetite, Singaporeans remain more cautious, coming in at second last place, just above India.

Overall, Singapore was ranked fourth, after Australia, Hong Kong and Japan, in its consumer attitude to fiancial risk.

Source: The Straits Times

How do you define...

2009-07-22T16:58:00.008+08:00

How do you define whether a person is experience or not. Do you judge them by the age? Or do you judge by the numbers of years a person working in a particular industry? Or by the wisdom word a person speak and related? Seriously, I am still a newbie in the field of business. I believe a person has to go through a process of daily encounters situation and has an attitude to learn from mistake in order to attain a certain level of experiences.

Take for example today, my consultant was consulting one of my prospect. The content she say was indeed from her experience she gain in the past. Of course this also include the knowledge of our services. Her style of presentation and communication skill is very strong and firm. I can see that this is through the numbers and numbers of practices and problems she may encounter before she is today. Well, I was sitting beside to absorb as much as possible.

"The only way to create a value proposition is to first genuinely listen to what the prospects needs and then demonstrate how a product or service fills that need."

I am feeling super motivated now

2009-07-21T17:09:00.005+08:00

I am feeling super motivated now. There are so much things I want to do and say to my prospect. Well, i try a different approach to my prospect and the end result turn out well. Some works, some don't. Sometime, it's the content you communicate with your prospect. I am learning to speak with them with valuable content in it. Which this might interest my prospect. But of course we got to know them first. Not all of them need your services right. So it will be best to know their problem and requirement before we talk the right stuff. You don't waste their time and your time right? Why spent so much time talking endlessly, breathlessly to them if you know they are still not ready for it. This might just created disturbance and irritation to them. This will only worsen their impression on you and your service.

Stay focus!

2009-07-20T11:19:00.001+08:00

We can't always predict what will happen tomorrow. But i always believe. Beliefs have been input and install into me. It has like become part of me. I gotta continue to think positive and get rid of as much head junk as possible and this has become my daily life. Learning everyday is so important to me. I will become a waste of my day if i don't learn. And I can't afford that to happen to me. That's bad if it happens. Well, I am able to secure an appointment with my prospect today. I learn a lot from the trail & error, guidance from my consultant, self learn and the events I encounter for the past one month. I am enjoying what I am doing. And looking forwards.

Help your company to increase sales revenue

2009-07-19T23:59:00.002+08:00

Do you own a website? Are your companies finding another economic models that work? Has your business enter the Internet arena yet? Yes? No? Arggh…!! No idea what the heaven is the Internet all about? No worried, continue reading. The below are some interesting overview facts about Internet.

In the early 1960s, a group of people saw a great potential value in allowing computer to share information on research and development in scientific and military fields. Thus, many research and development has been taken place. The Internet is then the result of some visionary thinking by this group of people.

During 1990s, there was a rapid expansion of the Internet. It has had a drastic impact on culture and commerce. The Internet was no longer only used by computer experts, engineers, scientists and librarians. April 30, 1995, the National Science Foundation (NSF) contracted with four other companies that would be providers of access to NSF backbone. These companies would then sell connections to companies, organizations and group.

Okay, back to the topic. =) So what do you know about a website or a web design? It is not only about the impressive graphic design, fanciful logo design or appealing color in the WebPages. Yes!, I have to agree that they are an important elements in a website. An unprofessional website can lead to a fall in sales as the look and feel of the website has fail to build value and trust from your prospect/ website visitors. But think again; are they the only crucial factors that affect your business? Have you make full use of your website correctly to boost your business sale?

A website is a very powerful tool and is your key success to your business. You can use your website to promote your services anywhere, sell your products around the World, build your brand 24/7 and so much more benefit. The big question is HOW can I do that? I believe most of the people know about the advantage of using the Internet. But most do not know what are the process of doing it, where and who should they look for advise. I dare to say that VE Media can service your needs.

hey, I am not finish yet. =) If the above mention is the reasons for having a website to help to achieve for your company, I might disagree with you. I often ask people, “what are the objective of your website?” The common answer is either it’s for providing information about our company’s products or to convey our brand to the visitors. In actuality, those are rarely the true objective but rather the means to achieve their objective. In most cases, the ultimate aim of your website is to drive sales and revenue. And VE Media is good at this. Have you realize that your website is not doing a good job and need a revamp? Let VE Media help your business to build a winning strategy.

Opps… I almost forget to introduce myself. I am Dan Lu representing VE Media. ☺ Still a young adult. Haha… I am an outdoor guy who enjoy playing sports. And have a passion in the field of design & business. Well, that define my life.

If you are interested to know more about VE Media, do check it out at www.vemedia.net or email me at dan[at]vemedia.net if you have any queries. But if you are interested to know me, feel free to add me at www.facebook.com/danljh haha… See you @facebook. Cheer!!!

Best regards

Dan Lu

The Key to Eliminating Objections and Increasing Sales

2009-07-17T15:42:00.003+08:00

You're in a meeting with a promising prospect. You review the project and the services you provide and then, just when you're hoping to get the okay, the prospect raises an objection. They may tell you:

'I haven't got the time right now.'

'Send me a written proposal and I'll think about it.'

'We already have a supplier.'

'We prefer working with a larger company.'

'Its too expensive.'

'We really don't need your services.'

'I need to get approval from my boss.'

Has this ever happened to you? How do you respond? Are these the real problems, or is something else going on?

Prospects give objections like these when they still have a question about your company and the value of your services. If they tell you they're looking for a larger firm, what they are really asking is, 'Can your firm do the job?' 'Do you have the resources to meet our needs?' 'Won't a larger company with more personnel give us better service?'

When a prospect tells you your product or services cost too much, what they are really asking is, 'Are the benefits worth the money?' 'How do I know if it will work?' 'Will I get my money's worth?' 'How much money will I save or make by using this service?' 'Won't I save money by not using your service?'

When a prospect tells you, 'I already have a supplier.' what they are really asking is, 'How do I know I can trust you to provide the services?' 'How do I know you'll do a better job than my existing supplier?'

Prospects raise objections because they have questions about your company's credibility, the solution your product or service provides and its value. Every buyer has these concerns.

Once you've done work for a client, selling them your services the second and third time around is much easier. They trust you, understand the solution you provide and recognize its value.

To eliminate objections, first acknowledge that most of prospects' objections are based on three common underlying concerns.

The solution you provide.

Prospects want to know whether it's a fit for the problem they are trying to solve. They want to know what it does and whom it has previously worked for.

Your credibility.

Unless they've purchased your products or services before, prospects need to know that you can be trusted to deliver.

The value of your products and services.

Whether it costs a few dollars or a few million, buyers want to understand the benefit of what they are buying in their terms.

The best way to avoid having objections become last minute deal breakers is to take the following three steps to identify and address them in the course of your marketing.

1. Validate Objections

Openly acknowledge common concerns in your marketing materials and presentations. If you are a small firm competing against larger companies, don't try to sweep this obvious fact under the carpet. Point it out and use it to your advantage.

2. Understand Objections

Use questions to get prospects talking about each of their concerns. If you charge high prices for your services, ask them what their concerns are about price. With the right questions, you'll find out where to take the discussion or how to refine your marketing strategy.

3. Educate Prospects

Once you have a clear idea of your prospects' distinct priorities you can explain the benefits of using your high priced service or how the smaller size of your firm is actually to their advantage.

When to Address Objections

The best time to address objections is in your marketing materials. You can use your brochure, your web site and other materials to validate prospects' objections, understand their concerns and educate them. Assuming your prospects read your materials, you can use this approach to eliminate objections before you even have the first conversation with a prospect.

Of course, not all prospects will read everything you provide and some will have lingering concerns despite your best efforts. Until the sale takes place, you should assume that your prospects might have questions that need to be addressed. What can you do about these persistent objections?

Use your marketing conversations to get prospects to clarify their concerns so you can address each one. For example, don't wait until the last minute to find out that the person you've been talking to needs to consult their boss. Early on in your marketing effort, ask them who needs to be part of the purchasing decision so you can include them from the start.

Prior to asking for the sale, get your prospect to identify:

When would be the right time to use your services?

What information do they want to see in a written proposal?
What they like and don't like about their existing supplier?
What their financial or other objectives are?
How a smaller company could better meet their needs?
What benefits would justify the costs?

Your marketing objective is to make it as easy as possible for your prospects to become clients. Unanswered questions and concerns get in the way and result in lost sales. Eliminate these up front in your marketing and you'll find many more prospects signing up to be clients.

By: Charlie Cook

Important pointers that make sense to me

2009-07-17T12:49:00.005+08:00

It is much more simple to speak about the 'business end' when your audience believes you because you believe in the products.

It is not an easy money game. It is not merely a recruiting game. Distributors who are successful know their product, know their customers, know the company's vision, and are prepared to do that which is necessary. HARD WORK. Look at the name Network Marketing.

Learning the Product is the first thing Paul does as he begins his career in sales. This 'newbie' envisions three major factors that will determine his success or failure in sales. They are:

Knowledge of his product.
Knowledge of the benefits that it offers to his prospects.
How well he communicates that knowledge and benefits to his prospects.

How ICTech® works:

You're a salesperson whose Natural Style is 'Single.' What do you do with a 'Multiple' style prospect?

Don't bore her with too many details; give her the overview of the product and its effects on her. Be sure to ask her what this product could do for her or in some way let her think this whole thing is her idea.
The fastest way to lose this prospect is oversell - too many details. You are 'telling' not 'selling.'

Now reverse the example. You're a 'Multiple' salesperson and your prospect is a 'Single.' What do you do?

Don't overpower him with too many examples or applications of the product. Let them apply to him. Again, 'sell' don't 'tell.' Concentrate on the strongest feature of your product and give as many details as possible.
Give him plenty of time to think; don't rush him. The fastest way to lose this prospect is to appear too vague because you're trying to give him an overview and he wants an explicit example.

Myth # 2 Price is value

Many business considers lower price as offering more value. More often than not lowest price products end up as the second best with a higher priced product with similar product attributes leading the market. The simple reason is the higher price product may be offering a higher satisfaction due to perceived values and imagery. Car markets are a prime example of this syndrome.

Nothing in life is certain except...

2009-07-16T22:40:00.001+08:00

Nothing in life is certain except for confidence! How do I know everything will be okay? I am confident that I can make a difference because I believe I am here to help my clients. Confidence in yourself, self-assurance that you will make a difference, and self-reliance come about with the inner dialogue you have with yourself. Have you had other rocky roads? Have your come through them to be better in unexpected ways? In answering yes, you know that you and your clients will come through this as well. ~Ellen Delap

I am having a dilemma

2009-07-15T23:41:00.003+08:00

I am having a dilemma. This has been bothering me for the past 3 days. I can't even concentrate on my job today. kind of demoralize. I guess I thought about it carefully, I decided to decline the opportunity. Since I am still young, I have the time to work for the $$$. I seriously don't wish to borrow it from friends or family. Moreover, I can still learn and work with them. Although, the process seem to be slow. Many may say that I am crazy. Why do you work in such a unsecured, no future, unstable environment? Whatever negative comments you can think of. But too bad, I am now carrying an entrepreneur mentality or mindset, whatever you call it.

Since I was 18, 19, I wanted to be someone out there. I want to do something out of myself. Family is always the first obstacles for me. All the negative comments and discouragement from them form a head junk to me. Money is another sensitive issue to them too. But I can understand from their point of view. It's a care and concern from them too. However, I will not allow all this to stop me from success and my beliefs. Remember this, being successful is not judge by your family background.

Richard St. John's 8 secrets of success

2009-07-14T16:24:00.003+08:00

Oops, here is the other video I found on Richard St. John's 8 secrets of success. I believe there are many other secrets that led to success. I have a list of them that motivate me from day to day. I will be sharing the list here one day, so look out for my entries.

Richard St. John: "Success is a continuous journey

2009-07-14T15:58:00.002+08:00

Some important points I learn from him. It's easy to be an entrepreneur but it's definitely not easy to sustain it if no work it being input to continue the success of business. Well, did I mention easy to be an entrepreneur, it's never easy to be one if he or she is not prepare to be one; correct mindset, attitude, willing to sacrifice a lot of things, hardship and the lists go down and down.... It will be great if he can elaborate on each point of his success.

I am facing an issue now.

2009-07-13T16:30:00.009+08:00

I am facing an issue now. I have the opportunity to do franchise with my current company. Which mean I am able to be my own boss and company. I have great and experience mentors with me. And I know I am one step nearer to my Dream. But I have a major problem here, none other than working capital. Rental and registration fee, equipments all cost $$$. My only chances is to borrow from my mother, which I do not wish to. I can already visualize all the negative feedbacks and opinions they will give me, discourage me. Endless of doubts. Nevertheless, I hope she will give me the financial support other than moral support. I guess there is some government entrepreneur grant out there, i will be doing some research on that. I am grabbing opportunities everyday.

Can you remember a specific time...

2009-07-12T21:13:00.003+08:00

Can you remember a specific time when you when you were totally motivated to do something? Can you go back to that time and step back into that experience?

Was it something you saw?

Was it something you heard?

Was it the touch of something or someone?

What was the first thing that caused you to be totally motivated.

Did you make a picture in your mind?

Did you say something to yourself?

Did you have a certain feeling or emotion?

Let's share with me here. What I mention above do happen in me. How about yours?

Why a 21 year old is kicking your butt?

2009-07-12T14:00:00.000+08:00

What is social media to you?

2009-07-11T13:24:00.001+08:00

I meet this two guys from...

2009-07-10T18:50:00.003+08:00

I meet this two guys from Manulife Financial, Marcus and Kevin, when I was going company to company to deliver my services. They were also providing their services to the company there. Of course we have a casual intro of ourselves and exchange of name card. However, I have somethin to share here. Although, we are in two different business, I feel we actually share the same mindset and attitude in term of our own targets and goals. I have a great time chatting and learn from the conversation. I am impress by people who work for a insurance company. And I like to speak to them because I am able to "secretly" learn their techniques on how they approached the client, the words they used. It is the small little action and strategic that make the differences. I have to say that most of the insurance people's technique is quite standard. Only a few is innovative. They are just a bunch of motivated group.

When I have the passion for...

2009-07-10T00:26:00.002+08:00

When I have the passion for my business, I am willing to sacrifice a lot of things. I might not think it as sacrificing because I am enjoying the process. It's just come naturally without me thinking twice, whining or complaining about it. Well, I keep reminding myself that this is my business. How am I going to work out for this business is depending on myself. No one is out there to discipline or restrict me on how should I this and that. What time should I go for lunch. What color and type of attire you should wear. What time you should report to office. This... and that... on the minor issue that we have experienced during school days and in most of the organization out there.

Learning is part and parcel of my life now. This is so crucial and necessary to me. I realized that it's so important to become an entrepreneur. Never stop learning. I believe no matter what occupation you are in, we shouldn't stop ourself from learning new stuff, gaining knowledge.

She really make my day...

2009-07-08T17:19:00.004+08:00

She really make my day. Although, she insisted that her company will not used one of my services, we had a short good chat about our businesses and target audiences. Whatever, it is i will be seeing her again. Before i leave her office she said, young man! with a 'add oil' (keep on going) hand sign. I nodded my head with a smile at her. This is really encouraging and motivated me further. I enjoy chatting with client like her. Jonathan is one of them, he is open to any things in the business sector and i learn a lot from him too.

Opportunities are everywhere...

2009-07-07T23:32:00.003+08:00

Opportunities are everywhere. If you pay attention to your surrounding. Make yourself open to them. I think it is important and necessary to do a study of the area, know the ground first before we dominant the area. Just like going for War. We have the scout to reece the territory. Information of the terrain is gathered. And other important observation of the surrounding have to report to the HQ. Strategies were then being plan and execute; where, how, when and who will conquer this particular area. Everyone shared the same objective and vision. And work towards the goal. This relate the same in the business world.

By nature everyone has a self defense...

2009-07-06T21:22:00.005+08:00

By nature everyone has a self defense system in build in us. Generally, when first interact with client, they will choose not to listen to you 100% or maybe didn't even want to know what you are going to say. Why is this so ??

This is very simple. Because client do not know who you are. They need to know you better. It's not a one day event. Thus, there is no mutual trust between the me and him. Put it this way, will you accept his/her love if you do not know each other at all? I think you will be scared out of your life.

Visit the client other day again. At the same time, promote your business relevant services. No hurry to sell your products or services. Most importantly, build the rapport and trust first. Even after we have engaged in the business. My business goal is not only to build a business relationship but also a business partnership.

Don't sit around waiting...

2009-07-06T12:33:00.003+08:00

Don't sit around waiting for enough energy to get going. Get yourself moving and you'll create the energy necessary to keep you in motion.

Do you just not feel like doing anything? That's the time when you can make the biggest positive difference for yourself by going ahead and taking action anyway.

In ways small and large, your world right now is filled with opportunities to make a difference. Take the initiative.

The only thing you need to take the first step is your decision to do it. Take that first step and put momentum solidly on your side.

If you think you can't do it, stop thinking and start doing. The smallest positive action can begin to erase even the biggest doubt.

This is a day that you can fill with valuable and purposeful accomplishment. Take the initiative, and make something of it right now.

-- Ralph Marston

I can't describe how powerful twitter...

2009-07-06T00:56:00.004+08:00

I can't describe how powerful twitter is now. It is such a powerful business, marketing and networking tool anyone can use. I joined twitter about 2 years ago. But i don't use it all. Until recently, I explore the concepts, ideas and the uses of it. It is more than just a social network with friends and family which i thought. I spent the entire day to study and discover a lot of new things. I also created my first new twitter background. Feel free to Follow me @ahdan

So what if one has a great and...

2009-07-04T22:26:00.003+08:00

So what if one has a great and genius ideas. Ideas are worthless without proper execution.

Success is neither determined by your...

2009-07-03T17:02:00.030+08:00

Success is neither determined by your background nor your family background. It is also definitely not by your cash on hand. Beliefs.

The 20 seconds rule...

2009-07-03T12:58:00.009+08:00

The 20 seconds rule. It's great to develop a concise and snappy 20 seconds elevator pitch to use whenever someone ask,"what do you do?" This chances help to increase a referral.

I have one myself,"I provide services to help companies increase their sales and revenue" Trust me... he/she will follow up with me on what exactly my services is all about.

I am patient and taking small...

2009-07-03T00:07:00.009+08:00

I am patient and taking small step at a time. Although, the step seem too small and slow. This is testing my determination. Once I know what I want, just do it. Since I am still young, why not go for it. I don't want to look back and regret. Don't be affected by negative comments around you or imagine unpleasant scenario. Clear the head junk. Don't under estimate oneself. Because only you know who you are, you know what you want and think what you think. Nobody else know best about you except yourself.

What is business all about?...

2009-07-02T17:57:00.022+08:00

What is business all about? It is about number game. Number don't run away from business. And statistic don't lie. Set your own goals. It's ok to start small. For example, I set the numbers of clients I interact with. It will accumulate each day. A exchange of name card is necessary. No name card ?! No worried, at least attain their names & contact, get their emails and lastly their company. This is some way to networking. And to brand yourself. Do some google or yahoo search on a particular company help me to understand their nature of business. You never know one day you might partnership with them.

Head Junk!...

2009-07-01T23:01:00.004+08:00

Head Junk! I believe everyone experiences it. Thank to Mike's sharing. Visit his website to watch his vlog on how to eliminate your head junk.

Hanging out with the wrong people. - So find people who has Been there, done there or want to be. They support you and gives positive comments, feedbacks.
Information overload. - Find the correct person for more information first then search online to support your beliefs.
Small thinking.- Why small! Start thinking huge now.
Stopped learning. -Never never stop learning. Business is constantly changing.
I am always right. - Learn from mistake.

Miscommunication is one of the NO way...

2009-07-01T12:23:00.002+08:00

Miscommunication is one of the NO way that should happen between buyer and provider. It's an unhealthy beginning. If you are sms your client, the messages you want to convey have to be clear and easy to understand. Moreover, there is no emotion or level of tone involve in the content. We are unable to know what kind of attitude each other is projecting. Messaging can be very sensitive issue. It will be better if everyone is cautious about what and how we construct the sentences via email or sms. Adding a smiling face icon works well too. =) Anyway, there shouldn't be any emotion effective you to your success. The first rule is NO EMOTION!

Don't assume. You never ask...

2009-06-30T13:09:00.002+08:00

Don't assume. You never ask, you never know. Know the truth, the facts. When you understand, things around you start to change.

I assume the entire 4 level building is under one company. Until i asked, there are actually a lot of company up there. 0_O

Have you ever wanted to give up...

2009-06-30T00:00:00.002+08:00

Have you ever wanted to give up in what you do? It happens to me. In many circumstances, there are many reasons that causes me to. Arggh, i have spent the entire day to crack my brain on this and it was not solve yet. The key words is not YET. OMG, why am I doing this, i have other better things to do. I am wasting my time. What if it does not work out. What if this and that... The question is why I am creating all this negative thoughts that result me to give up. I have been starting on this new and exciting career path for about a week or more. As usual I question myself a lot of negatives. It is a necessary and good thoughts though. However, the below is what I am telling myself . . .

Not now then when.

2009-06-29T18:28:00.053+08:00

I am starting a new blog with my Apple here at Woodlands Regional library. I just feel a desire to start this new blog call 5 cents coin. Well, 5centscoin blog is about my foot print to become an entrepreneur, businessman or maybe something that enlighten me. Anything that concern business, sale, money anything.... whether it's tiny, small or big. In future i might related why i call it 5centscoin.

You see, I am a person who like to take down notes and keep myself aware of the environment, the happening. I have my own diary with me where all my personal story, experience, problem and etc are keep in there. But, I feel i am into Internet (who don't at this era) most of the time, it's easier for me to keep track and store all my learning experience somewhere virtual. I believe blogspot is the place. At the same time, i can share this with someone out there who appreciate 5centscoin. So I decided to extract this portion from my diary to here.

Thank goodness, I am able to secure 5centscoin URL. Not so easy to get a link that i want on blogspot. Most of url are unavailable. Until then.