Wednesday, September 01, 2010 - Just This Once

Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #38- September 1, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  Have you ever been tempted to make a business decision that could potentially make things easier but does not quite align with your vision, goal or integrity? I had an opportunity to evaluate my business commitment and convictions this month. I am proud to say I have defined a company vision, client definition and value proposition that is so clear and feels so right, I know it is my  purpose. Without a doubt, I know what I stand for and I am very certain about what I have to offer. This clarity guides every decision I make, particularly in the face of temptation. In my lifetime may I never waiver, not even just this once?  In the words of Jim Collins “it could be the difference between being good and being great”. Just This Once During a golf tournament a couple weeks ago I had a very enlightening conversation with one of my golf partners about our respective businesses. I was excited to share with him my goal to rebrand and introduce my new cultural assessment program to the international market. We ended up chatting about our commitment to vision and client definition. To my surprise, and after some teasing, he challenged my conviction and asked me if I could be enticed to compromise or change my business vision if the margins of profitability were tempting enough? I know in my heart I would never go there. Whether profit driven or not, if it is not my vision why do it? Just this once moves you from a margin of 100% to 98% and it is a slippery slope from there. I’ve been teaching this model and debating the subject for years. Do surgeons set the standard of success in the surgical suite at 98%? Do pilots test the safety gear only when they feel like it? Do construction companies strive to design effective safety programs hoping to address 50 % of near miss issues? Do we strive to meet our goals only some of the time or change them because it is easier?  When you move away from 100% commitment to, just this once,  your margin of success decreases along with your reputation. Only the opportunity to manifest undesirable consequence increases.  If you think about all that is wrong in the world,  the law of deduction will bring you back to the probable roots cause of decisions founded on just this once. The infamous Brain Tracy  always  said “you become what you focus on and your actions follow suit”. Building or leading a business is an incredible journey into who you are and what you stand for. Not always easy and never boring. Your choices define you and ultimately shape your life experience. Just this once may offer an experience you were not counting on. Have a great September, Warmly, Bea. Great Read: The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life, Deckle Edge, Alice Schroeder  The book and renders Buffett'spublic and private successes and failures wonderfully human and universal. Schroeder's sections detailing the genesis of Buffett's investment strategy, his early mentoring by Benjamin Graham (who imparted the memorable "cigar butt" scheme: purchasing discarded stocks and taking a final puff). Inspiring managerial advice abounds and competes with gossipy tidbits (the married Buffett's very public relationship with Washington Post editor Katherine Graham) in this rich, surprisingly affecting biography. Amazon Great Organizations: Big Brothers and Big Sisters http://www.bbbsedmonton.org/ABOUT/MissionStatement Not for profit, charitable organization that works collaboratively with other community organizations to fulfill the goal of providing a mentor relationship to every child who could benefit from the addition of a positive role model. Through dilidgent recruitment, screening, training and follow up, Big brothers Big Sisters works to match caring, positive adults with children and youth in need. Our programs and partnerships are varied but always have mentorship at their foundation.  For more information on programs available, please see the Program area of this site.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Wednesday, August 04, 2010 - Listening with Humility

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #37- August 4, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  Happy August everyone!! I hope all of you are having an incredible summer. I spent some time in the beautiful British Columbia mountains this month relaxing, drinking fine wine, hiking and spending precious moments with family. The trip afforded me some time to reflect on my purpose and what I will leave as a legacy for this world when I physically leave. I hope when I’m gone people will think that I’ve touched their lives in some way and feel I’ve added value. With this thought in mind, the self realization kicked in and I had to ask myself do I touch lives? The exercise brought me back to a lesson I learned while rushing through life a few years ago. Listening with Humility Some years ago I was driving my son Liam to school. He goes to a hockey school that is a 30 minute drive from our home, meaning a two hour back and forth investment every school day. On this particular morning I was rushed and stressed about all the things I needed to do before work. I was also feeling sorry for myself because I had to drive my son to school thinking the 30 minutes was a waste of time. During the internal self pity session I was having with myself and the planning I was doing for the day, I heard his little voice say, "I still think you’re the best mom in the world". Words no one should take for granted. At that point I snapped out of the dark world I created for myself only to realize I was having a conversation with my son and had no clue what it was about. Not only was I ashamed but I was also so embarrassed and never came clean with him that I wasn’t paying attention. I dropped him off at school lovingly, gave him a hug and drove away only to stop 3 blocks away in a parking lot where I bursted into tears wondering how often had I done that with him or anyone else? As this generous slap from God started to sting I began to see things differently; the 30 minutes in the car alone with my son was a gift in the midst of a busy life and, the 30 minute drive was not an inconvenience on my life but a show of commitment to support Liam’s passion for playing hockey. That day changed everything for me. If I look at all the people I respect most in life they have one thing in common. They are humble and the most powerful characteristic of their humbleness is the ability to listen, be interested and truly care about what you have to say. How often have you been in a meeting thinking about all the things you needed to do, at the dinner table hurrying through the meal, on the phone with a friend making a grocery list? I don’t do that anymore (or at least I really try hard not to). How many moments have we all wasted worrying or planning?  Clayton M. Christiansen wrote in a Harvard Business Review article “....if you have a humble eagerness to learn from everybody, your learning opportunities will be unlimited” I just recently read that Bill Clinton is so committed to being conscious of listening while having a conversation he will not break eye contact, not even to reach for a glass of water. I hope when I’m gone people will say I really was interested and that I did sincerely listen. I work on it everyday but I am definitely not perfect. I do know giving your full attention is a precious gift that comes with many rewards. I never did find out why Liam thought I was the best mom in the world that day and that is really sad... but it might be one of the best things that ever happened to me. Great Read: Linchpin , Seth Godin, Portfolio Hardcover, January 26, 2010 The book is a passionate plea and argument to individuals to become indispensable linchpins in whatever it is they do. (Rat Trap)  Great Organizations: Inner City High School Edmonton http://www.innercity.ca Inner City High School offers Edmonton’s youth at risk and others an academic and arts-based alternative to the traditional school setting. Inner City High School is an independent school accredited by Alberta Learning. The school was created at the request of youth in our drama programs and provides youth with an alternative route to a high school diploma.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 - Working with Passion & Purpose by Charmaine Hammond

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #36- June 30, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  This month it is my pleasure to introduce you to Charmaine Hammond. Charmaine is one of the most insightful people I’ve met this year. She is an expert on building resilient teams and a dynamic keynote speaker. Charmaine has generously agreed to write this month’s Thoughts for Success. Please also check out her two brilliant books in my Great Reads section. Enjoy! Working with Passion & Purpose Passionate and purpose driven teams and businesses will have a better survival rate during any economic climate, and will experience higher retention.  When employees are passionate about their work and have found meaning in their role, this positively impacts the team, and ultimately the people who you serve. In fact, clients and customers choose to do business with you because of your values and the experience you offer when they do business with you. The end result?   A more productive workplace, inspired performance, and customers and clients that will continue to do business with you.  We can think of purpose at work like one’s calling or life work, whereas passion is the energy that drives us to be engaged and purposeful. Passion can be misdirected or unmanaged if not supported or anchored by one’s purpose. When I reflect upon the many organizations I have consulted with and the numbers of individuals I have met, I have discovered that individuals who approach their work with passion and a sense of purpose seem to maintain an attitude of contribution, service and adding value. These individuals are highly engaged in the workplace which means the employee is more likely to remain loyal to their employer, and strive to go above and beyond to help the company succeed. Here are five success strategies to ignite passion and purpose at work: 1. People- opportunities for involvement, manage conflict early and effectively, communicate, value employees (and ensure they know they are valued), be aware of employee strengths and goals, training and development, and social functions. 2. Processes- systems and processes that promote effectiveness and efficiency, processes to manage conflict, solicit ideas and feedback, and to recognize employees. 3. Planning- ensure employees are aware of and connected to corporate goals (and where they can play a role), succession planning, training and development plans, engagement strategies. 4. Performance- monitor performance regularly and address issues early, performance appraisals, provide feedback to support growth, coaching and mentoring, aligning opportunities with employee strengths, talents and passions. 5. Presence- leaders modeling presence and mindfulness, create a resilient and inspired culture. Charmaine Hammond, MA, BA, is an international speaker, facilitator and consultant helping businesses Bounce Forward™ - building resilient and inspired teams. She is author of two new books, On Toby’s Terms and GPS Your Best Life, both published by Bettie Youngs Books. To contact Charmaine:  http://www.hammondgroup.biz/  780-464-3828 Great Read: On Toby’s Terms , published by Bettie Youngs BooksOn Toby's Terms is an endearing story of a beguiling creature who teaches his owners that, despite their trying to teach him how to be the dog they want, he is the one to lay out the terms of being the dog he needs to be. This insight would change their lives forever. GPS Your Best Life, published by Bettie Youngs Books. Taking You From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be Great Organizations: Inner City High School Edmonton http://www.innercity.ca Inner City High School offers Edmonton’s youth at risk and others an academic and arts-based alternative to the traditional school setting. Inner City High School is an independent school accredited by Alberta Learning. The school was created at the request of youth in our drama programs and provides youth with an alternative route to a high school diploma.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 - Working with Passion & Purpose by Charmaine Hammond

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #36- June 30, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  This month it is my pleasure to introduce you to Charmaine Hammond. Charmaine is one of the most insightful people I’ve met this year. She is an expert on building resilient teams and a dynamic keynote speaker. Charmaine has generously agreed to write this month’s Thoughts for Success. Please also check out her two brilliant books in my Great Reads section. Enjoy! Working with Passion & Purpose Passionate and purpose driven teams and businesses will have a better survival rate during any economic climate, and will experience higher retention.  When employees are passionate about their work and have found meaning in their role, this positively impacts the team, and ultimately the people who you serve. In fact, clients and customers choose to do business with you because of your values and the experience you offer when they do business with you. The end result?   A more productive workplace, inspired performance, and customers and clients that will continue to do business with you.  We can think of purpose at work like one’s calling or life work, whereas passion is the energy that drives us to be engaged and purposeful. Passion can be misdirected or unmanaged if not supported or anchored by one’s purpose. When I reflect upon the many organizations I have consulted with and the numbers of individuals I have met, I have discovered that individuals who approach their work with passion and a sense of purpose seem to maintain an attitude of contribution, service and adding value. These individuals are highly engaged in the workplace which means the employee is more likely to remain loyal to their employer, and strive to go above and beyond to help the company succeed. Here are five success strategies to ignite passion and purpose at work: 1. People- opportunities for involvement, manage conflict early and effectively, communicate, value employees (and ensure they know they are valued), be aware of employee strengths and goals, training and development, and social functions. 2. Processes- systems and processes that promote effectiveness and efficiency, processes to manage conflict, solicit ideas and feedback, and to recognize employees. 3. Planning- ensure employees are aware of and connected to corporate goals (and where they can play a role), succession planning, training and development plans, engagement strategies. 4. Performance- monitor performance regularly and address issues early, performance appraisals, provide feedback to support growth, coaching and mentoring, aligning opportunities with employee strengths, talents and passions. 5. Presence- leaders modeling presence and mindfulness, create a resilient and inspired culture. Charmaine Hammond, MA, BA, is an international speaker, facilitator and consultant helping businesses Bounce Forward™ - building resilient and inspired teams. She is author of two new books, On Toby’s Terms and GPS Your Best Life, both published by Bettie Youngs Books. To contact Charmaine:  http://www.hammondgroup.biz/  780-464-3828 Great Read: On Toby’s Terms , published by Bettie Youngs BooksOn Toby's Terms is an endearing story of a beguiling creature who teaches his owners that, despite their trying to teach him how to be the dog they want, he is the one to lay out the terms of being the dog he needs to be. This insight would change their lives forever. GPS Your Best Life, published by Bettie Youngs Books. Taking You From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be Great Organizations: Inner City High School Edmonton http://www.innercity.ca Inner City High School offers Edmonton’s youth at risk and others an academic and arts-based alternative to the traditional school setting. Inner City High School is an independent school accredited by Alberta Learning. The school was created at the request of youth in our drama programs and provides youth with an alternative route to a high school diploma.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Sunday, June 06, 2010 - How to Design Culture?

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #35- June 7, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings   “Live as though it were your last day because one day you might be right.” I wish I knew who originally said those brilliant words. Could you imagine if we applied this brilliant thought to managing people and managing culture within business?  What if you managed your people as though it were your last day? If that was the case, what legacy would you really want to leave?.  How to Design Culture? Fix it. Those two little words can cause a lot of damage in a business especially if you’re looking for a quick fix.  When there is a problem in your organization you can pretty much guarantee it has something to do with your culture. In most cases quick fixes are considered band-aid solutions that may cover up the problem but doesn’t really get to the heart of the matter. In these cases organizations tend to spend unnecessary time and additional dollars on activities that really don’t solve the problem. Quick fixes treat the symptoms not the condition. The question to ask is not how to fix it but rather to find out why the problem exists.  Do managers make mistakes because they are incompetent or just simply inexperienced? Do people make mistakes because they want to do a bad job or because the direction given was not as clear as it could have been?  To understand the root of the problem you need to understand the root of your culture. Culture is the main source of an organization’s identity and drive. It sets the direction and defines the operating environment.  The ultimate goal is to support anticipated and desirable results for the business. Keeping this in mind, a business can become the best version of itself only to the extent its people are all moving in the same direction. I admit culture can be complex. In its simplest form it can be broken down into four parts; each one building on the other: 1) values and beliefs 2) behaviour influenced by values and beliefs 3) procedures and recognition based on values and beliefs 4) personal and professional goals, aspirations and dreams driven by values and beliefs Most problems that arise in any business or organization are generated from a disconnect in one, some or all of these areas.  1) What values guide your staff to perform to their greatest potential? 2) What competencies define the behaviour of your managers? 3) What procedures are in place to support performance excellence? 4) What goals and aspirations are supported by the core values of your business? Developing productive teams and great leaders is hard work. It is definitely an investment in “people management.” How you manage your people is central to how you define and solidify your culture. Keep in mind your managers of today could be the CEOs of tomorrow ...and one day you could be working for them. Great Read: Compound Effect, Darren Hardy, (SUCCESS Books) contains the essence of what every superachiever needs to know, practice, and master to obtain extraordinary success. Inside you will find strategies on how to win every time!  Great Organizations: Inner City High School Edmonton http://www.innercity.ca Inner City High School offers Edmonton’s youth at risk and others an academic and arts-based alternative to the traditional school setting. Inner City High School is an independent school accredited by Alberta Learning. The school was created at the request of youth in our drama programs and provides youth with an alternative route to a high school diploma.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved Wishing you all the success you deserve!! Warmly, Bea   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Sunday, May 02, 2010 - The Intent of Conversation

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #34- May 2, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  Have you ever thought how often you fight to be right in a conversation?  Or perhaps more times than not, let your ego override your compassion to listen or look at things differently. I had an interesting evening with a group of dear friends a couple weeks ago. My opinion during the conversation led me down a path I haven’t gone in a very long time. I kept wondering if it was my ego or passion that guided my part of the conversation. Better yet, was it my fear of being wrong? These are important questions for me personally given I live my life by six rules; one being to honour the thoughts and ideas of others even if I don’t agree. I think this rule is so important when dealing with employees, clients, friends, children or life in general.  The Intent of Conversation I had some friends over earlier in April. We had a wonderful evening and got into an intense conversation. We all had strong opinions on a particular issue and spoke passionately to what we thought was right. Upon reflection I couldn’t help but wonder if I really tried to understand each argument. The experience took me back to when I was a young executive. At a conference many years ago I had the opportunity to sit at a table with my then, CEO. That weekend I challenged everything my CEO had to say. Later I grew to understand that my challenges were not stated for the betterment of the organization but rather to position me. My actions were most likely an effort to make me  look smart or have me stand out. I’m sure my challenges had the opposite effect. Fortunately, I was blessed with a very wise and patient leader. My point is, do we really listen when others speak? And when we respond what is our true intention. My experience has shown me most ideas and opinions are rarely wrong, their just different. Are we prepared to look at things differently? And on that same note, is there shame in being wrong? I heard once that if you are not prepared to be wrong you will never come up with an original idea. This recent experience has reminded me to be very conscious when talking to people; an important rule in business and life. What I’ve learned over the years is simple in its true essence but sometimes hard to practice. What I do know as a good friend, mother, wife, daughter and business person is to: 1. Listen with the intent to understand 2. Allow yourself to look at things differently 3. Respect the opinion of others, even if you disagree 4. Embrace when you are wrong and learn from it 5. Never judge 6. Try and be purposeful and kind with your words Enjoy your conversations because you most likely have a lot of them everyday. Don’t let your judgement or pride derail your opportunity to learn and build relationships. And most importantly, don’t be too busy to listen. We never did resolve the challenge of our conversation that April night.  We did however reinforce the ties of friendship by agreeing to let each opinion stand. Great Read: Linchpin , Seth Godin, Portfolio Hardcover, January 26, 2010 The book is a passionate plea and argument to individuals to become indispensable linchpins in whatever it is they do. (Rat Trap)  Great Organizations: Inner City High School Edmonton http://www.innercity.ca Inner City High School offers Edmonton’s youth at risk and others an academic and arts-based alternative to the traditional school setting. Inner City High School is an independent school accredited by Alberta Learning. The school was created at the request of youth in our drama programs and provides youth with an alternative route to a high school diploma.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Monday, March 15, 2010 - Funny Thing About Dreams

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #32- March 15, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings This month I just want to focus on one thing that is so vital to our success. Dreams.  As entrepreneurs, educators, administrators and parents we have to remember to dream.  Funny thing about dreams ......they do come true.    Funny Thing About Dreams Do you remember when you were a kid and you sat up in bed, looked up at the stars and dreamt of a future full of possibility: a future within your reach: a future that made you invincible. Well sometimes as adults we fail to believe that our dreams are still possible and still within our reach. ...nothing can be farther from the truth. Just ask any successful entrepreneur, passionate educator, team leader or engaged parent. The proof is all around us. May I remind you this country was built on dreams. How many immigrants came to this country with little in their pocket and only hope in their hearts; having enough determination to make a difference. I know there were many including my incredible parents. So my message to you is short and simple: Keep dreaming by : Creating your own opportunities Understanding that risk gets you one step closer to your own reward Recognizing when you fall you must get back up Knowing determination makes a difference Allowing passion to guide you Taking action everyday to bring you that much closer to your dreams Appreciating the barriers, because it makes it that much more fun, Eliminating the barriers because that is part of the grand plan Inviting collaboration because you don’t have to do it alone You can only become the best version of yourself when you explore your potential. Have a wonderful rest of the month. Dream big! Take action! And have the audacity to take that risk! There is no doubt your potential is waiting for you on the other side. Above all else dream big. Funny thing about dreams......they do come true! Just to let you know I’ve designed a new corporate retreat Executive Package: Designing your Destiny: The Dream Manager Program. We live our best lives and do our best work when we pursue our dreams. Call me if you’re interested in something different to engage your leadership team. Great Read: Linchpin , Seth Godin, Portfolio Hardcover, January 26, 2010 The book is a passionate plea and argument to individuals to become indispensable linchpins in whatever it is they do. (Rat Trap) Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, Daniel Pink, Penguin Group Incorporated, December 2009 "Drive" boils down true motivation into three elements: 1) autonomy, the desire to direct our own lives, 2) mastery, the desire to continually improve at something that matters, and 3) purpose, the desire to do things in service of something larger than ourselves (Amazon) Great Organizations: http://www.myunitedway.ca United Way is at the core of a movement. It’s a movement inspired by a genuine passion for social change. It’s a movement powered by people willing to share their time, talent and resources in favour of the common good. And it’s a movement that is improving individual lives and the social conditions of our community every single day.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved  You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Monday, February 15, 2010 - Good Attitude means Good Business

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #31- February 15, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings I was reflecting this past month on all the accomplishments I’ve achieved as a corporate success coach. It has been an amazing ride. I go to bed each night excited about what the morning will hold. I wake up each morning looking forward to the next project that makes a difference. More amazing is all that I’ve come to learn working with some of the most brilliant business minds.....my clients. Given all the different industries I work in you would think my clients don’t have much in common.  Well, I can honestly say they all have one out right, stand out, obvious and consistent common denominator. All my successful clients have great attitudes!!!   Good Attitude means Good Business  Attitude can make or break the deal, build or scar a relationship and be the difference between making money or not. Here are four very simple examples that have made a difference in the companies I work with.  Can Do Attitude: When challenges present themselves do you focus on the problem or the solution? Often, ineffective companies spend too much time in meetings focusing on the problem. Well guess what? There is a solution or two to every problem. We all have the platform to break down barriers and create a path forward. Start thinking differently! Start thinking solution!  Courage with Attitude: Have you heard Einstein’s definition for insanity: doing the same thing over and over again. That means if you don’t step out of the box you change nothing and then nothing changes. Successful companies have the courage to take risks. They know the biggest risk is not taking the risk at all. Know Who You Serve Attitude: Understand that you are not selling your product or service you are serving the customer. Understand who you serve, what they need and how they need it. Not everyone will need you or what you have to offer.  Ensure you and your company know who the customers are and serve them well. Better to do a good job serving the few then to do a mediocre job serving the many. Believe me, the latter won’t last long! Fight Against the Status Quo Attitude: Successful companies know they see the business world through their own eyes which means they have their own perception. For this reason they are not afraid to challenge the status quo, seek different opinions, learn new things and try new ideas. This ensures the company protects itself from being self absorbed and egotistical. This type of attitude keeps companies motivated, innovated and moving forward. I could go on and on about attitude but I think you get the picture. Practicing “good attitude” can make a difference in the quality, profitability and customer experience provided by your company. I share the following quote with you in good humour. I also believe that part of a great attitude is a sense of humour, especially if you can laugh at yourself. A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.  ~Herm Albright, quoted in Reader's Digest, June 1995   Great Read: Linchpin , Seth Godin, Portfolio Hardcover, January 26, 2010 The book is a passionate plea and argument to individuals to become indispensable linchpins in whatever it is they do. (Rat Trap) Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, Daniel Pink, Penguin Group Incorporated, December 2009 "Drive" boils down true motivation into three elements: 1) autonomy, the desire to direct our own lives, 2) mastery, the desire to continually improve at something that matters, and 3) purpose, the desire to do things in service of something larger than ourselves (Amazon) Great Organizations: http://www.myunitedway.ca United Way is at the core of a movement. It’s a movement inspired by a genuine passion for social change. It’s a movement powered by people willing to share their time, talent and resources in favour of the common good. And it’s a movement that is improving individual lives and the social conditions of our community every single day.     Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Monday, February 01, 2010 - Innovation and Creativity in Business

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #30- February 1, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  I’m so excited. My two favourite authors, Daniel Pink who I met this summer, and Seth Godin both have new books out. Check out my Great Read section below for titles. In celebration I am reprinting a refreshed thought I shared last April on innovation and creativity in business.  I hope it inspires you and those you work with to continuously push to do better through creativity and authentic purpose. Innovation and Creativity in Business Last year I learned that some of the most successful companies in the world consciously and meticulously take time out to promote innovation and ingenuity throughout their company.  Did you know Bill Gates (when he was CEO) set aside a week every year called “Think Week”? During this time he isolated himself so he could read new ideas and manuscripts submitted throughout the year by Microsoft employees. Not only did he read the ideas, he responded to every single one of them. The process is embedded in the Microsoft culture even today, to promote innovation and creativity. Google has a similar culture. This summer when Daniel Pink was in Edmonton speaking he shared that Gmail was created by a young front line employee; a direct result of empowering people to contribute. Is your company or group really interested in creativity? Do you value new ideas, creative solutions, and taking risks? Do you reward your team for innovation or for keeping to the status quo? What does your leadership do to stimulate ideas for change, improvement, and imaginative visioning? Next time you sit down with your leadership group bring these questions to the table. Define where you are on the cultural innovation grid today and where you want to be in the future. If you want to move “creativity” forward keep this triad in mind: 1. Empower your team to be creative -Position your team to understand what creativity means (do you know?) -Be grateful for those who challenge the status quo -Encourage employees to carry around  idea  books or files -Have the courage to ask what needs to be different to do things better -Give people the autonomy they need to get  better at what they love -Eliminate the fear of failing and embrace learning, especially from mistakes -Teach your company to think and see differently -Grow company pride by focusing on the core purpose of your business and eliminate everything else that breeds waste 2. Listen to all ideas Position your company or group to be grateful for all ideas. I mean really grateful! Implement an employee suggestion box or design an automated idea intake process. Take ten minutes out of team meetings to listen to ideas, suggestions and thoughts for improvement. Most importantly do not discard any ideas. Just think what we’d be missing if someone wasn’t listening???? I can’t imagine the world without Gmail? YouTube? Harry Potter? Sliced Bread? 3. Value all ideas and recognize each effort Bill gates responded to every idea, every manuscript and every proposal from his employees. Find a way to acknowledge those that have the guts to share, the audacity to take the risks, the loyalty to care enough about the company to come up with new ways. Recognition not only empowers, it breeds pride and purpose.  I believe these are three of the most powerful actions you can implement to build creativity into to any company culture. The first question I always ask a new client is: What would you change if you knew you could not fail? The response is always enlightening! Wishing you all the success you deserve! Warmly Bea Great Read: Linchpin , Seth Godin, Portfolio Hardcover, January 26, 2010 The book is a passionate plea and argument to individuals to become indispensable linchpins in whatever it is they do. (Rat Trap) Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, Daniel Pink, Penguin Group Incorporated, December 2009 "Drive" boils down true motivation into three elements: 1) autonomy, the desire to direct our own lives, 2) mastery, the desire to continually improve at something that matters, and 3) purpose, the desire to do things in service of something larger than ourselves Great Organizations: http://www.redcross.ca (Ottawa, January 15, 2010) – The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to announce that nine banks in Canada are accepting cash donations in support of Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti. On January 12, 2010 a 7.0 magnitude earthquake, followed by two powerful aftershocks, struck off the western coast of Haiti. “It is estimated that 3 million people have been affected and are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance,” says Conrad Sauvé, Secretary General and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. The Red Cross response to this disaster was immediate. Local Red Cross volunteers are on the ground evacuating people, assisting in search and rescue efforts and providing emergency first aid and shelter. Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will be used to provide emergency shelter, food, water and other essentials in impacted communities based on needs. Canadians can give online, call toll-free at 1-800-418-1111 or visit their local Red Cross office or one of the participating bank branches. Cheques should be earmarked Haiti Earthquake. The following banks are accepting financial donations from January 15 to February 15, 2010: BMO Financial Group Canadian Western Bank CIBC HSBC Bank Canada Laurentian Bank of Canada National Bank Financial Group RBC Scotiabank TD Canada Trust   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Monday, January 18, 2010 - Do you have a plan for 2010?

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #29- January 18, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings  It is always exciting bringing in the New Year. I have an annual New Year’s tradition. I like to look back on the past year and say good bye with fond memories and gratitude. Given my strong belief and commitment to success planning, I start each year by answering the following questions. It is a great way to greet the New Year with anticipation, excitement and a proper plan! As I’ve deemed this year the year of courage, I encourage you all to be bold with your plan. I also hope it includes some small act to support the efforts in Haiti. My thoughts and prayers go out to all affected and all who are responding. Thank you! Do you have a plan for 2010? 1. What is the best thing that happened in 2009? What did you learn? How did you grow? What is the best choice you made? 2. How do you want 2010 to be the same and different? 3. What do you want to accomplish in 2010? Why? What is great about these goals? How will it improve your life/business? 4. How will you accomplish these goals? What are you willing to do or change to make it happen? What decisions and actions do you have planned? When will it happen? 5. What type of person do you want to be while reaching these goals (what values/characteristics/behaviours)? 6. What do you love? Are you making time for the things and people you love? 7. If you knew you could not fail what would you do? 8. Looking back at your life at 99 years old, how do you want to be remembered? Don’t let 2010 just happen, plan to make your dreams come true! Wishing you all the success you deserve! Warmly Bea   Great Organizations: http://www.redcross.ca (Ottawa, January 15, 2010) – The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to announce that nine banks in Canada are accepting cash donations in support of Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti. On January 12, 2010 a 7.0 magnitude earthquake, followed by two powerful aftershocks, struck off the western coast of Haiti. “It is estimated that 3 million people have been affected and are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance,” says Conrad Sauvé, Secretary General and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. The Red Cross response to this disaster was immediate. Local Red Cross volunteers are on the ground evacuating people, assisting in search and rescue efforts and providing emergency first aid and shelter. Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will be used to provide emergency shelter, food, water and other essentials in impacted communities based on needs. Canadians can give online, call toll-free at 1-800-418-1111 or visit their local Red Cross office or one of the participating bank branches. Cheques should be earmarked Haiti Earthquake. The following banks are accepting financial donations from January 15 to February 15, 2010: BMO Financial Group Canadian Western Bank CIBC HSBC Bank Canada Laurentian Bank of Canada National Bank Financial Group RBC Scotiabank TD Canada Trust   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Sunday, January 03, 2010 - The Year of Courage

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #28- January 3, 2010 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings Welcome to 2010!!! May this be the year you find your greatest courage; courage to live a life of passion, fulfillment and find success that is true to you. I invite you to bring in this fabulous New Year with the following thoughts. Please read them often. May they inspire you to make your own dreams come true everyday. The Year of Courage "If we did all the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves."  Thomas A. Edison 1. Have the courage not just to dream, but to dream bigger. 2. Have the courage to trust in yourself, even if that means standing apart. 3. Have the courage to say I can, especially when others say you can’t. 4. Have the courage to make no excuses and address what needs to be changed. 5. Have the courage to live with grace, compassion and integrity even in the face of adversity. 6. Have the courage to do your best everyday. 7. Have the courage to make a difference in the life of another, not matter how small. 8. Have the courage to take risks, fall down, get back up and learn from your mistakes. 9. Have the courage to be grateful. 10. Have to courage to love deeply and passionately. If you really want to design new opportunities and explore this world in ways you never knew possible then make 2010 the year of courage. You will be unstoppable. Happy New Year! Wishing you all the success you deserve. Bea    Great Organizations (close to my heart): http://www.innercity.ca Inner City High School offers Edmonton’s youth at risk and others an academic and arts-based alternative to the traditional school setting. Inner City High School is an independent school accredited by Alberta Learning. The school was created at the request of youth in our drama programs and provides youth with an alternative route to a high school diploma.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Sunday, December 20, 2009 - Western Business Acumen meets Eastern Philosophy

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #27 - December 20, 2009 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings Seasons Greetings and Merry Christmas! This is my last article for 2009 so I thought I would do something fun.  Early this year I had a crazy exchange of dialogue with one of my clients. The conversation began by examining best practices common in highly successful companies. To open our minds we journeyed back to eastern traditions that guided great historic leaders and their visions.  As the discussion ensued we realized companies today are guided by many of those ancient beliefs. Below is a snapshot of the comparative discussion. I represent Eastern thought and he Western practice.  Western Business Acumen meets Eastern Philosophy The Law of Attraction Eastern Thought:  It is believed this law actually manifested during the first experience of thought. Perhaps on the cusp of some evolution. Some suggest that people began practising this law more than 7000 year ago; actually believing their thoughts transformed reality. Buddha himself was guided by this belief and once expressed “all that we are is the result of what we have thought." The revelation means we can create ourselves whether it is in spiritual, physical or mental realms. Today, modern day sages preach that “what you focus on grows.” In very simplistic terms, the Law of Attraction works by a constant focus on intention.  That very focus sends out a vibrational frequency (raw energy) that attracts and manifests what you intend. Western Practice: The Law of Attraction is defined everyday by organizational vision, mission and strategic planning that answers the questions: What do we do? For whom do we do it? How do we do it? And, what is the intended result? Modern business also believes what we focus on grows. That’s why we have goals. The Law of Paradox Eastern Thought: This is an ancient eastern belief that dates back to Hindu wisdom. The law explains that without dark there would be no light. This paradox also suggests that to appreciate a life of happiness and success you first must earn it. The lessons we learn from struggle and pain will lead us to enlightenment. Western Practice:  The law of paradox also exists in modern day business. Those who work hard, take risks, make mistakes and learn, live to see another day. Today we believe if there is “no pain there is no gain.” The Law of Impermanence Eastern Thought: The Law of Impermanence may have come from the Vedic Indian culture. It suggests the world’s suffering is due to attachment. The only way to find happiness is to let go. Letting go of attachment is the first step to true self empowerment. Knowing that nothing stays the same allows us to grow. Change is the only constant. Western Practice: Each year successful businesses set new goals based on growth, environment, markets and people. As business people, we know all too well change is inevitable. The most recent fall of the stock market is a good example of lessons learned. In fact businesses that thrive on change are most likely to succeed. The Law of Gratitude  Eastern Thought: Much the same as the Law of Attraction, being in gratitude has healings effects that send out positive energy. This belief is found in almost every ancient culture, philosophy and religion. Positive emotions of gratitude offer a sense of comfort, humility and connection. When we take a few moments to express appreciation inwardly or to another, people begin to feel happier, more relaxed, and more optimistic. Today, even western medicine has acknowledged the happier a person is the stronger the immune system grows. Buddhists believe whatever you give in sincere gratitude will be returned to you tenfold. Western Practice: Now more than ever, western companies are giving back and partnering their economic revenue streams to enhance communities and/or the environment. Through philanthropic activities and engaging employees in the community, many companies know the importance of giving back. Forbes reported the top 10 companies in the US donated well over $5 billion last year. Whether it is attraction, paradox, impermanence or gratitude, these beliefs have guided us for centuries. The lexicon and application may be different but the concepts remain the same. I hope you’ll take these thoughts with you into the New Year. As you plan your goals and dream your dreams for 2010, remember these ancient laws and modern practices are on your side. How can you lose? Merry Christmas Everyone. All the best for success in 2010! Warmly, Bea Building a Business Performance Report Card Introducing a new coaching program that helps companies and leadership teams design accountability by grading performance, communication, core values, goals and contribution. The desired outcome is to clarify company goals, eliminate perception and identify performance priorities. Please call me if you’re interested or have any questions. I can be reached at ph: 780-221-4232.   Great Organizations: http://www.kiva.org  Kiva's mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. Kiva is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Monday, November 16, 2009 - The Simplicity of Authentic Leadership

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #26 - November 17, 2009 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings This month I took the opportunity to reflect on all the admirable leaders that made important contributions throughout my life. I would generally ask why they made such an effort to contribute to my success, but I already know why. These leaders are truly authentic in the way they live and work.  They  know that leadership is not just about words, actions and good intentions. It is about the “value” of their contributions and the individuality in which “value” is delivered. They also know their leadership is an investment in the future.  The Simplicity of Authentic Leadership Leaders come in many styles and variations. I’ve come to recognized that leadership styles play a small role compared to understanding personal awareness as the foundation of authentic leadership. With a strong personal awareness authentic leaders seem to have the inherent ability to clearly define the values that are important to them and align behavior. Not just their own behavior but the behavior of their families, companies and community. With that in mind, one can argue that authentic leaders always try to do the right thing based on the values and beliefs they uphold. The true authentic leader also leads with purpose. Each has a passion and belief that change will bring a better future. Able to communicate and inspire, they move forward with purposeful intention to create change and transform opportunity into reality. Another characteristic that seems prevalent in authentic leaders is a focus on the bigger picture. How actions and performance connect not only to family or business but the rest of the community. Authentic leaders don’t focus on “direct line of sight” or task after task. They focus on how their contributions will make things better in the bigger picture. This view creates possibility thinkers, breads innovation and builds dynamic environments. Finally, I believe authentic leaders inspire not by words but action. They participate, contribute and take action to generate results that offer tremendous value. This paves the way for everyone around them to work for higher standards, better performance and most importantly a better future. In their essence, authentic leaders are very simple people who possess the courage to be true to themselves, have strong personal awareness, are guided by deeply rooted values and who see the whole picture. These qualities naturally inspire people to step up and be the best they can be. How lucky we are to have these simple people in our lives. I was inspired to write on this topic as I watched my friend Catherine Vu President of Pro-Active IT Management Inc.(check out her website www.proactiveit.ca) receive the Deloitte Women of Influence Award in Edmonton this month. This Award recognizes women who are leaders in their communities, have achieved extraordinary successes and strive to be catalysts for change.  Catherine is a prime example of an authentic leader. Her vision took the male dominated IT sector by storm when she founded her own IT solutions company. As well, Catherine and her company endlessly (and I do mean endlessly) contribute to the Edmonton charity landscape demonstrating the true meaning of paying it forward! Congrats Catherine! Building a Business Performance Report Card Introducing a new coaching program that helps companies and leadership teams design accountability by grading performance, communication, core values, goals and contribution. The desired outcome is to clarify company goals, eliminate perception and identify performance priorities. Please call me if you’re interested or have any questions. I can be reached at ph: 780-221-4232.  Wishing you all the success you deserve Reading Room: Authentic Leadership: Rediscovering the Secrets to Creating Lasting Value by Bill George, Warren G. Bennis, Published by Wiley, John & Sons, Incorporated, August 2004 Great Organizations: http://www.kiva.org  Kiva's mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. Kiva is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Sunday, November 01, 2009 - The Number One Trend in the World Today

< < Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #25 - November 1, 2009 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings Greetings and happy November! Recently I’ve been doing some intense research and working with some fascinating people to try and understand the meaning of success. During my studies (or should I say journey) I’ve made an incredible discovery. Did you know the number one trend in the world today is a focus on well being? I’m not just referring to "well being" on a personal level. This trend is micro/macro, personal/professional, corporate/ social, urban and global. So, why the shift to well being?  The Number One Trend in the World Today I must admit that a focus on "well being" provides me with a sense of hope for this world. Nevertheless I can’t help but wonder why this shift is happening now? What do we know today that we didn’t a few decades ago? What knowledge do we now possess that is guiding society to a more meaningful existence?  Fortunately there are clues all around us. For instance, the evolution of business, economics, leadership, and social responsibility reveals “well being” as a modern day phenomenon. Economists today are measuring the success of demographic areas by the level of happiness in the community. International Banks are moving to “wisdom based economic strategies” by investing is social responsibilities. Companies are measuring the health of their cultures by the well being of their employees. Charity is no longer about handouts but building self-sufficiency. Corporate leadership is no longer about dictating but collaborating. What do all these examples have in common? They all affect the “well being” of society. Perhaps we are finally coming into an era of cognitive choice. Conceivably, society may finally understand that we are all connected. Every decision we make and every action we take affects another. Is it possible we are moving from self perspective and self indulgence to conscious evolution?  Even businesses are changing their strategic consciousness. I had a great chat with a CEO of a company who said to me “The purpose of a company is to serve the needs of the community. Profit is a desired outcome and measures the value of that service.” I thought that was an interesting comment and one we can all learn from. To continue on the path to “well being” both professionally and personally, I strongly believe it is important to consciously define what contributions we want to make and the purpose of those contributions. __________________________________________________________________ Introducing a new coaching program to help strengthen your business culture: Building a Business Performance Report Card This program helps companies and leadership teams design accountability by grading performance, communication, core values, goals and contribution. The desired outcome is to clarify company goals, eliminate perception and identify performance priorities. Please call me if you’re interested or have any questions. I can be reached at ph: 780-221-4232.  Wishing you all the success you deserve Reading Room: The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century Thomas L. Friedman , Published by Farrar, Straus & Giroux, April 2005 Thomas Friedman presents a clarion call for individuals, businesses and nations facing global dynamics of a scope and speed unparalleled in human history. His perception is brilliant and his argument compelling and thorough. Amazon Great Organizations: http://www.kiva.org  Kiva's mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. Kiva is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Thursday, October 15, 2009 - Core Values and Good Decision Making

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #24 - October 15, 2009 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com Greetings For those of you in Canada, I hope you had a fun filled Thanksgiving! This occasion is a great time to think about all the brilliance in your life. Reflection and gratitude always evoke such great feelings. I recently learned that feelings are the basis for every decision you make. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the art of decision making, this very act is founded on some sort of feeling. Does this mean feelings are an indicator that you’re living or not living your core values? Absolutely! For this reason it’s important to clearly and passionately understand what you stand for. If you use your core values to guide you, then you are fully in touch with your authentic self, ensuring passion and energy surrounds you and the people closest to you. Even companies are paying attention to the correlation between core values, confident employees and high performance. Core Values and Good Decision Making In working with many of my clients this past year I continue to recognize that good decision making is not just about  knowledge and experience. Core values are instrumental in guiding action, behaviour and success. To support good decision making by employees, performance driven companies should clarify behaviour expectations as well as performance goals. Winning teams, in all forms, are made from the same stuff. When a team understands what is important to the business culture, confident decisions making becomes the norm. For example, if your company strongly believes in accountability as a core value then managers will ensure their teams have clear roles and defined expectations. If your company believes in transparency then communication channels become a priority. What values guide your company success? If you really want to build authentic confidence in your team consider the following questions: 1. What are our core values and can we come up with a list of shared values as a team? 2. What are our goals and how do they tie to our shared values? 3. What activities will drive us to our goals? 4. What behaviors need to be modified as they are not aligned with our shared values even if they are aligned with our goals? 5. What behaviors support our shared values and will get us to our goals in the most natural way? 6. What indicators exist that demonstrate we are “walking the talk”? This is also a great exercise to do with family, schools, classes, sport teams or just yourself.  All goals and decisions should be aligned with your personal and professional core values no matter where you are or what you’re doing. Define what you stand for then keep it top of mind. Many thanks to my friend Lisa for her help in clarifying my thoughts on this subject. It feels really great to have people around me that push and challenge me. While I have your attention I wanted to introduce my new business coaching program: Building a Business Performance Report Card This program helps companies and leadership teams design accountability by grading performance, communication, core values, goals and contribution. The desired outcome is to clarify company goals, eliminate perception and identify performance priorities. Please call me if you’re interested or have any questions. I can be reached at ph: 780-221-4232.  Wishing you all the success you deserve Reading Room: Daniel Pink is coming to Edmonton Sunday October 18 Check it out! www.inspiringeducation.alberta.ca A Whole New Mind, Daniel Pink, Penguin Group 2005 Review from the New York Times: In this provocative and entertaining book, Daniel H. Pink offers a fresh look at what it takes to excel. A Whole New Mind reveals the six essential aptitudes on which professional success and personal fulfillment now depend, and includes a series of hands-on exercises culled from experts around the world to help readers sharpen the necessary abilities. This book will change not only how we see the world but how we experience it as well. Great Organizations: http://www.kiva.org  Kiva's mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. Kiva is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. 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Sunday, October 04, 2009 - Leadership today is about joining the conversation

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #23 - October 5, 2009 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com. Greetings Do you ever wonder about the experiences that impact how you think, act or move forward? Generally these experiences are not huge moments in our lives but have the potential to make significant changes. It seems this past week was one of those moments in time where a simple encounter challenged my thoughts on leadership. I had the privilege of having lunch with Michael Drew this past week. A person not familiar to me in my world. In fact, it was a situation that for most would seem coincidental or random. For those of you who know me, you know I believe there are no coincidences in life. Everything happens for a reason. Michael Drew is a person who has helped 58 people reach the New York Times top best seller list. So did I get to have lunch with him because he is the guy that will help get my unfinished book to the top? That is a question for another time (the better question is when will I finish my book?). But he did say something that kept me up at night questioning my views on leadership in business and community. In talking about today’s beliefs he shared a subtle statement defining the changing tides of society.  In one short statement he expressed that today leadership is no longer about being the guru, it is about “joining the conversation”. Eloquoet yes, but what the heck does that mean? Leadership today is about joining the conversation!!!???    Leadership today is about joining the conversation In the age of information and social media we truly can join any conversation. The internet, Facebook, Twitter and blogging have changed the very face of moving masses. Is Michael saying we are or could be the great leaders of today? Is he also saying we don’t have to be an expert to offer thought, opinion or direction? Every day there are lists upon lists that come out on how to design change through social media networking. The Obama campaign was one of the most successful Presidential campaigns in history due to their use of social media. Another great example of joining the conversation is the birth of an organization called Kiva. Kiva's mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. In 2004, Matt Flannery and Jessica Jackley witnessed the power of microfinance firsthand while on a trip to East Africa; a trip that would change their lives and the lives of many others mostly through social media. In their words the experience led them to some realizations: • “We are more connected than we realize. Even in rural East Africa it was possible to remain very connected with friends and family in the United States. Distance means little in the world of communication today. • Stories connect people in a powerful way. As we listened to story after story of a fishmonger who needed enough money to buy directly from the fishermen at the lake, or a farmer who needed to buy a better breed of cow to produce more milk, we knew that any of our friends back home would want to support these business ventures if they also heard their stories. With each story came a human connection as similarities were identified, making an African entrepreneur someone easier to relate to despite differences in language, culture or levels of wealth.” All Jessica and Matt did was start the conversation and since its birth Kiva has grown from a small personal project to one of the “world's largest microfinance facilitators, connecting entrepreneurs with millions of dollars in loans from hundreds of thousands of lenders around the world.” What else does joining the conversation mean? Maybe Michael Drew is saying we can do it better together than alone. Maybe joining the conversation is about allowing us to share our gifts in an age where conversation is accessible, desirable and influential. But I don’t think is just about moving the masses through the internet and social media. Change doesn’t have to be big but it does have to mean something. I think we also need to join the conversation in anything we do. We need to join the conversation in business where the thoughts of clients really matter and in the community where leadership is about community design. We especially need to join the conversation within our own families. Our children will grow confident if we show them that what they have to say matters. I will never forget Marcus Buckingham asking the question, when our children bring home their report cards do we focus on the Cs or the As? Those As may be telling us something. Is that A subject a strength or a passion we need to fuel? We will never know until we join their conversation. What conversation have you recently joined?  Wishing you all the success you deserve Reading Room:  Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide Knopf (Sep 8 2009) by Nicholas D. Kristof (Author), Sheryl WuDunn (Author) Great Organizations: Kiva http://www.kiva.org To connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty.   Thoughts for Success is written and produced by Bea Bohm-Meyer. If you have any questions or comments, or for reprint permission of this newsletter, please email: bea@beabohm-meyer.com. © Copyright 2007-2008. Bohm-Meyer Consulting.  All rights reserved   You are receiving this newsletter because you are subscribed to BeaBohm-Meyer.com e-Newsletters. To change your delivery options or unsubscribe safely, please $(OptOutURL).

Tuesday, September 15, 2009 - Employee Dream Teams by Design

< Thoughts for Success   Issue Issue #22 - September 15 , 2009 Corporate Success Building  Bea is an expert in her field. She has years of experience building highly productive and motivated teams. Her ability to help companies and leadership design a strong corporate culture, by getting people moving in the same direction, builds a tremendous competitive advantage. Bea also works one on one with executives to help find that clarity needed to confidently build success. Personal Success Building Bea inspires people to succeed in achieving their desired goals. She helps to create a clear vision of what is possible and a plan to overcome obstacles.   Previous Newsletters Did you miss one of my e-newsletters, click here to access my archive. Do you have a question?  Call Bea at :(780) 221-4232 or visit my web site at www.beabohm-meyer.com. Greetings I’ve been working on defining the key competencies that set certain employees apart from the status quo. These are the people you hire to take the business to the next level. They are passionate, motivated and make the critical difference between a company that just exists and a company that evolves into something special. Many business gurus such as Peter Drucker, Warren Bennis and Brad Smart call these individuals the “A Players” and are considered to be one of the most important competitive advantages in achieving success. I thought I’d share with you what I’ve learned over the years and the key characteristic that I think make up A list employees. However, be very aware that not all A Players are born into performance stardom. Premier companies design performance driven cultures to help turn their dream players into dream teams.   Employee Dream Teams by Design Working in leadership positions for so many years I can honestly say I did one thing consistently right. I set out to hire people that were passionate and hopefully smarter than me. The passion reinforced their love for what they were doing. The smarts just made my life so much easier. Rarely did I hear “we can’t”. I was sincerely grateful for all the talent that surrounded me and for the most part I hired A Players. Those A Players all share 6 unique characteristics that quickly set them apart: 1. They are smart and resourceful. I’m not talking knowing all the answers. In fact, A Players know when they don’t have the answers but are smart enough to know where to find it. 2. They are driven. They make things happen, are possibility thinkers and do not take no for an answer. The only acceptable answers are the ones that support company growth. 3. They are passionate. They are excited about what they do and are consumed with how to make things even better. 4.  They are customer focused. They understand customer emotional needs and business requirements. 5. They are leaders. They set the example of always selling the vision of the company. 6. Their performance consistently exceeds expectations. When I hire people or help companies attract talent, I always formulate questions that draw out information around each of these competencies or characteristics and rate them on a scale of 1 to 10. But that is only the begin