TODAY IS ELECTION DAY!!!
Not tomorrow, . . . TODAY! November 4th!

If you have concerns about:
The Economy
Global Warming/Climate Change
Health Care
Taxes
The Troops
Your Job Security
Your Family’s Well-Being
The National Deficit
Gas Prices
Retirement
Gun Control
Your Freedoms
Our Country and Its People - YOU

This is YOUR opportunity to be heard.

YOUR VOTE COUNTS!!!

No matter who you support and what you believe, voice your concerns by casting your ballot today. Take Action! Because . . . .

YOU MATTER.

And if you’re worried about the long lines - carpool with a few friends and “talk story” while you wait, bring a good book or that magazine that you’ve been wanting to read, take your ipod and listen to podcasts, meet a new friend on line. . . Don’t let anything get in the way.

Voting is your right as a US citizen. It is a privilege. It is a service. It is a gift.

I’ll see you at the polls!
Susan

Usually this time of year makes me think of learning and creating. I think with school starting, I’ve always identified the Autumn with something new and exciting - a new class, a new teacher, new experiences. There’s a change in the air.

However, now that I am no longer in school, I create ways of learning and bringing new experiences to my life.

Someone once told me that once you stop learning, you’re dead.

I’m sure there are several ways to read that statement, but to me, it means if we cease to grow, to expand or to learn, we cease to exist. If you’ve ever been in a “rut” of any kind, you know what I mean. You feel stagnant, bored, tired. The memory might conjure up feelings of being one of the “living dead;” walking around and “doing” without actually LIVING.

In order to stay inspired, to take action and to move toward what you REALLY want in life, oftentimes it entails learning - learning something new, different or just discovering something within ourselves.

Recently I joined a book club and that has inspired me to read books that I normally would not have otherwise. I have to admit sometimes it takes a little while to build up the momentum, but once it starts to roll, it’s great!

I encourage you, especially if you ARE in a rut, to take the opportunity to create some excitement in the air by learning/doing something new.

It will open doors to new worlds and most likely will be fun!

Share your ideas to get inspired, find creativity and get motivated!
Would love to hear how YOU get out of your rut!

Looking forward,
Susan
Susan Kim Coaching
Supporting You To Take Action!

Talking about technology this month has brought out the “geek” in me – who doesn’t like the bright and shiny objects that dangle in front of us? However, sometimes we purchase the “upgrade” just because it’s there, not necessarily out of purposeful intention or because it is a good choice.

The important questions to ask yourself are:
How does it benefit your life TODAY?
Does it upgrade your lifestyle?
What systems in your life need to be “tweaked?”

Distinguishing between trinkets that serve you and enhance your life VS. those that make your life more difficult and stressful, is a great tool to have. It helps you to make choices on a daily basis that suit you and makes life EASIER for you.

Make Happiness Yours,
Susan

Technology used to benefit our self care can make a huge difference in how we organize and plan.

1 1/2 years ago when I changed from carrying a separate cell phone and palm pilot to ONE Palm Treo that served both for me, it was the best thing I could have done! I had always utilized various systems to help me organize - Franklin Covey, Day Planners, the Palm Pilot – but the Palm Treo helped me take it one step further and really helped me be more efficient throughout my week.

The fact that I have all my contacts in one place makes it easier to update/revise and/or access my contact information. It was cumbersome to maintain when I had three separate places for my contacts: my pda, my cell phone AND my contact software on my laptop. Now it’s all in once spot, saving me time, energy and sweat! With the extra time, I do a little more yoga or walk my dog.

TAKE ACTION! CHALLENGE:
Life does not have to be hard work. Instead of working hard to maintain technology, let technology work hard for you.
How can you improve your daily “system” to incorporate technology for you to enhance your life, to “upgrade” life?

Another example would be my coffee maker. I purposely bought a coffee maker with the brew timer. It’s easier for me to set up the coffee the night before and have fresh brewed coffee ready for me in the morning when I wake up! Now I just have to get someone to bring it to me in bed. . .

Make Happiness Yours,
Susan

I’m rounding out the month’s “Tips for Vacation” with some ideas for inexpensive, fun activities. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a family, vacation activities often can be costly. Here are some things you can do that are easy, fun and inexpensive!

1. Museums and Cultural Events. Most cities have a museum or host cultural events throughout the year. These are fairly inexpensive to get in and can entertain you for the whole day! My recommendation is to pack a light lunch so you do not have to spend money on the food and drink, which could get expensive here as well.

2. Go outdoors! Look for public parks in the area – even if you’re in an urban setting, you will find parks for picnicking, hiking, fishing and even camping! These are inexpensive activities fun for the whole family!

3. Go indoors! With Game Day! I remember a trip to Costa Rica with my husband, we were rained out of the surf, so we spent a couple days inside with our beer, cards and board games. It was so much fun! If you’re with a group of people, try an “Olympics” with the different games you have access to. A little healthy competition livens things up!

Hope the tips throughout the last weeks have helped with your vacation planning. Maybe it’s even inspired you to plan your NEXT vacation! For right now, however,. . .
What ideas do you have for some fun, inexpensive vacation activities?

Next month, look out for me featured in the Compass MAP(TM), “Taking Care of Self.” In it, I will lead you through some ways to achieving better balance, improved health and happiness! This is definitely a Self Care program you do NOT want to miss!

Make Happiness Yours,
Susan

Technorati Tags: inexpensive activities, travel, vacation, museums, outdoor activities, indoor activities, family vacations, travel tips

A friend, who also happens to be a mortgage specialist, sent me her newsletter with some great information, “How to Select a Pet Sitter.” I believe the original information came from a site called RISMedia which has various information for professionals in the Real Estate industry.

This information was very pertinent to me because I have a dog and a bird and when I go away for more than a few days at a time, I’d like to make sure they have someone reliable to care for them. They’re a part of the family and I want to make sure that they not only get their food and water, but they get the playful attention and exercise they need.

Here are the 10 steps they mention (in summary):

1. Ask friends, neighbors and family for suggestions. Sometimes a reliable and trustworthy sitter is right under your nose.

2. Ask local professionals such as pet-groomers, veterinarians and pet clubs. They are a great source of information.

3. Ask other professionals you hire, such as a housekeeper or landscaper. They may know someone OR they may be willing to do some side work and take care of your pet while you’re away. If your pet already has a good relationship with this person, it’s an added bonus!

4. Follow Up Recommendations. Word of mouth recommendations often indicate that the Pet Sitter is good, so follow up on others’ referrals.

5. Interview your potential pet-sitter and keep an eye on how they interact with your pet(s). These first signs can be a vital sign to you as to how they treat your pet while you are away.

6. Observe YOUR pet(s) reactions to the potential pet-sitter. Is your pet happy? Agitated? Angry? Calm? Skittish?

7. Ask questions. You deserve to know the level of expertise and experience of your pet-sitter. Some sample questions include: Have you done pet-sitting before? For what type of pets? Do you have other pets you are currently sitting? Do you have a set time for visiting pets that you care for? How long do you spend? Do you understand the dietary requirements of my pet(s)?

8. Ask for references. Contact or meet their references if possible.

9. Test your own feelings. Did YOU feel good with the sitter? Do you feel you can trust this person with your pet? Trust your instincts. If you are not pleased, keep looking.

10. Agree on a fair price. This is not the time to haggle. Be aware of the going rate for pet-sitting in your area and be prepared to pay it. Some may charge more for quality care, but in return, you can ask for a written confirmation of obligations the pet-sitter must meet.

Once you’ve found your pet-sitter and you feel confident, before you leave, prepare a checklist of daily tasks that the pet-sitter can check off each visit. This will help ensure they remember each step, particularly if there is medication or special dietary requirement involved.

Hope that helps with your search.
If you have some other tips to find pet-sitters, let us know. Simply comment on this blog to share.

Next week, I’ll share “Tips to Save Money on Vacation”

Make Happiness Yours,
Susan

Technorati Tags: finding pet-sitter, taking care of pet, vacation, tips for travel, resource, information

You already know my feelings about resolutions. . .
Fuhgedaboudit!
At least “fuhgedaboud” the “old” resolutions that do not pertain to your life RIGHT NOW. And “fuhgedaboud” those goals that weigh you down, year after year (see SOAR).
Instead, create intention and purpose around what you want.

Five years ago I worked with my coach to create a “Living Theme.” A theme is a motto or mantra that supports you every single day. It is an intentional focus that empowers you throughout the year. Every day, when you wake up, your theme inspires and motivates you to move forward.

It is about setting an intention based on what you want the year to be about. As an example, here are some themes I created:

• “Be Great” – The year I created this theme, I moved to Maui, bought a house, started my coaching practice and established myself as a professional speaker/trainer. Each step of the way I was thinking of “being GREAT!”

• “Get Involved” – My “Get Involved” year was amazing! I started working with (and getting involved with) community organizations I care about, like the Maui Humane Society and American Cancer Society. I also got more involved professionally by volunteering my time to work with entrepreneurs as a business counselor/coach for the Small Business Administration offices of SCORE and SBDC.

A theme empowers and inspires through purpose and intention all year long!
To start creating YOUR Theme, brainstorm with the following ideas:

1. Think of what you want right now. Brainstorm words and phrases that are relevant and touches you personally.
2. Challenge yourself (refer to SOARing, December blog) – Think of how you want to stretch yourself in the coming year.
3. Think of 3 quotes that speak to you and what you’re about today.

As you brainstorm, your theme might pop out at you or you might have to find a common connection among your ideas. Either way, this will get you started.

Have a wonderfully, intentional Year!

Technorati Tags: intention, theme, resolutions, goals, stay inspired, motivation, challenge, success, purpose, inspiration.

(One Thursday evening - 5:30pm Hawaii)

Envision Event Planning presents the Leadership Development Series
featuring Susan Kim presenting
“Creating Strong Teams, One Person at a Time!”

DETAILS:
Thursday, November 29th, 2007
5:30-9:0opm, (5:30-6:00-registration)
My Office, LLC - 1019 Waimanu Street, Suite 101, Honolulu, HI 96814

There is no “I” in team, but it is important to understand each individual that makes up a strong team. This method of team building starts with each person understanding each other. Each member not only contributes something unique, but also comes with their own perspective. Fluid communication among the team members coupled with a clear team vision helps to increase productivity and efficiency.

Join us for this interactive workshop, full of tools and resources to help you start building strong teams, one person at a time. . .

TO REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT:
CLICK HERE to go to the Envision Event Planning and Management, Inc. sign up site.

Technorati Tags: team building, envision, workshop, tools, resources, improve communication, leadership skills,   productivity, efficiency

(Two Saturdays (9am-12noon))

Would you like others to SELL for you?
Are you tired of constantly pounding the pavement looking for prospects and leads?

LEARN HOW TO BUILD A REFERRAL BUSINESS

Learn over 10 key steps to start building a referral business where you can leverage your current prospects and clients to work smarter, not harder.

Clients automatically come to YOU.

You will learn how to:

• Get the clients you want.
• Prepare a message that “closes”
• Feel comfortable networking and promoting yourself.
• Build strong relationships that result in business.
• Be one step ahead of your competitors
• Have others sell for you.

Make Business EASY for Yourself

“I learned how to ask for referrals. It was informative and very valuable” Jamie Griffiths, Home Express Loan

DETAILS:
Two Saturdays:
October 6th and 13th
9:00am - 12:00pm Hawaii

You will get:

• Two in-depth classes
• A workbook ($10 material fee)
• A complimentary subscription of the monthly Take Action! Newsletter

This class is being offered at Maui Community College.

Register at www.ocet.org (Class #420F07)

Technorati Tags: referral, business, resources, profits, relationships, trust, building relationships, business development, networking, word of mouth, referral

They say that “No man is an island,” and I would have to agree. Whether in business or in your personal life, relationships matter and have a large impact on your well being. As people, we were made to relate and be companions to each other, so when your relationships are confused and unhappy, our lives feel the same.

Relationships influence our body, mind and spirit. Do you notice that after a difficult phase in life your body feels tired, drained? Have you been caught in a moment of pure love for someone and felt the rush of energy? Is it hard to concentrate and focus when there is “drama” in your relationships - good or bad? Then you know what I mean.

Although relating is natural for us, sometimes our relationships are not quite where we want them to be or perhaps they are even hurting us. The best way to enhance your relationships is to improve your Self. Think about it, the common factor in all of your relationships is YOU!

Just like we have to exercise our muscles to be fit, we also have to “work out” our relationships to be healthy and strong.

Below are three Take Action! tips on how to “exercise” your relationships to strengthen and tone up.

#1. RELATIONSHIP SYSTEM
A relationship is a system that combines two individual systems - “You” and “Me” (the other person in the relationship), where each individual affects the outcome of the relationship. Given this model, think about how you are affecting the system. Each adjustment of your actions will somehow change the overall system.
Take Action! - Try it out. . .change your behavior just a little by tweaking something in your relationship. Start with something small. A good exercise to begin is to make a list of three columns:
Column #1: List the challenges/difficulties in your relationship.
Column #2: Write out the usual reaction/response when this situation occurs.
Column #3: Write out how you’re going to “tweak” it - give yourself some options to look at and then decide on one.

#2. RELATIONSHIPS START WITH YOU
The key to the “Relationship System” is that each individual is a separate whole person and is in integrity within themselves, not relying on or being dependent on the other. The relationship winds up being a natural and organic result of two people coming together to enhance the world of the other. Therefore, a healthy relationship starts with a healthy “You,” mentally, physically and spiritually.
Take Action! - Think about how you are contributing to the challenge you listed in #1. Also ask yourself honestly and with integrity, “What will it take for me to be complete?” Start taking care of your Self, giving to your Self and allowing your Self to LIVE. Not only will YOU feel great, but your relationships will improve in parallel!

#3. BOUNDARIES, NOT A MOAT
Relationships are about connecting with people, but boundaries enable us to protect ourselves from the potentially damaging affects of the world around us by discerning negative influences that surround us. Boundaries protect the individual from harm from the outside by letting the right people and behavior in, it does not serve to keep people out like a moat.
Take Action! - Top Three Steps to Building Boundaries:
1. Start Right Away -the sooner you start creating boundaries, the easier it becomes.
2. Be Clear - the better you can articulate your boundaries, the easier it is for others to understand and honor them.
3. Create Fair Boundaries - test your boundaries by asking if you would accept the boundary for someone else. If it is difficult to do, then ask yourself if it’s a fair boundary and adjust.

Technorati Tags: balance, relationships, boundaries, self care, personal development, action, accountability, couples