Ntentional Nsights

Weekly Ntentional Nsights

Week of August 10, 2020

#NtentionalNsights  Over the last few weeks I have talked to a lot of people who are facing major challenges and struggles in their life. They are often feeling hopeless and in despair. Times are tough and things are happening that are influencing our lives. I challenge you to develop a warrior mindset.  This requires standing strong in your faith and tapping into the amazing network of people in your life to help you talk things out. This is not a time for isolation and keeping things in that creates unnecessary stress and toxicity in your body.  Consider the following keys to help you as you navigate our new abnormal normal in this Covid-19 timeframe.

  1. Get comfortable being uncomfortable.
  2. Evaluate your inner circle and make sure it is with like-minded people.
  3. If you are going to complain and whine, determine to key your mouth shut.
  4. Speak life over your life and circumstances; speak those things you want to manifest. Remember death and life are in the power of the tongue.
  5. Be intentional with your self-care. Make yourself a priority in your life.
  6. Realize some people are in your life for seasons and be okay with moving on.
  7. Fall in love with the Jesus in you and share that love with the world. Remember love is a verb and requires action, so you have to do something. We talk love to others, but do we truly exhibit love in our daily living? This bears repeating over and over again. There was a song out years ago that stated what the world needs now is love, sweet love. We need to take that song to heart and commit to love in action not just in word.

This has been your weekly #NtentionalNsights Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving week!

 

Week of August 3, 2020

#NtentionalNsights  As I reflect on celebrating my birthday this week, I am reminded to live life to the fullest every day. So I want to share a few strategies to encourage you to make the most of each day and celebrate the gift of life.

  1. Start each day off giving thanks to God.  (This is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it.)
  2. Affirm and speak life over your body when you awaken each day. (Death and life are in the power of the tongue; therefore speak life.)
  3. Speak words of love to others. (Let your words be seasoned with salt.)
  4. Walk in the destiny and purpose that God has called you to.  (Let us run the race that is set before us.)
  5. Practice love and remember love is an action word which means you must do something. The old saying, ways and actions speak louder than words. (Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.)
  6. Take time to set boundaries and practice self-care. (Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.)
  7. Determine each day that you want to be the answer to someone’s prayer and make a difference in their life. (Speak life over others and pray fervently for them for the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.)

This has been your weekly #NtentionalNsights Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving week!

Week of July 20, 2020

#NtentionalNsights  This week challenge yourself to make sure you are aware of the attitude you project to others.  We hear it said often adopt an attitude of gratitude, but it bears repeating especially during this pandemic season where racial tensions are running high. It is so important to focus on the goodness of God and His mercy and grace. It doesn’t mean everything is perfect, but you determine in your heart you will maintain your peace and attitude of gratitude. Consider the following keys to help you shift and keep your attitude in the right place; positive.

  1. Give thanks to God every morning you wake up. Be thankful for the new day you are  blessed to see.
  2. Count your blessings not your troubles.
  3. Limit your time on social media and the news.
  4. Surround yourself with visionary people who refuse to quit or give up. (People who look for ways to turn lemons into lemonade.)
  5. Set boundaries and make sure you practice self-care.
  6. Create a laughter journal and read it daily.
  7. Spend time reading your Bible so you can get spiritually grounded in the word to fight the battles you will face.

This has been your weekly #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving week!

Week of July 6, 2020

#NtentionalNsights It is amazing as you listen to people the excuses they
give for not doing things. So often we find ourselves making excuses about certain things going on in our life. When we do this, we often delay walking into our destiny and adversely impacting our integrity level. The bottom line is we make time for things and people that are important in our life and that we value. What people must be comfortable with is that you will not be a priority in everyone’s life and that’s fine. You have to keep it moving and surround yourself with people who value what you have. It’s life!

Consider the following five simple strategies the next time you find yourself making an excuse.

1. Be honest with yourself.
2. Set realistic expectations.
3. Stop whining and start winning.
4. Take charge of what you need to do.
5. Be solution oriented.

This has been your weekly #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a
Mountain Moving week!

Week of June 22, 2020

#NtentionalNsights As the world becomes more and more chaotic with
changes happening it seems every day, you must be grounded in your core of who you are and what you stand for. Now more than ever before, we have to examine our own hearts and see what we can do to help facilitate positive and productive change which is evitable. One thing I remind my coaching clients of is the importance of laughter. There are so many things we must cope with every day, we often forget the value of laughter. Laughter works like medicine it is good for the soul and laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects. I encourage you as you navigate sometimes it appears unchartered waters, to find that thing or activity
that makes you laugh out loud and make sure you take a dose of it every day.
Today I challenge you to start a laughter journal with moments in your life that made you laugh. Reflect on them as you go through difficult days and sometimes just the thought will lighten your heart. It's so important to create times where we get off the roller coaster of life, turn off the news and social media and take a laughter break to refresh our mind, soul, spirit and heart.

This has been your weekly #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving week!

 

Week of May 25, 2020

#NtentionalNsights   As you reflect and have time to pause from the busyness of the world, what are you doing to enrich your life, career and business? It is critical that you stay focused with the talents and treasures God has given you and not get sidetracked looking at what others are doing. We must all run the race that is set before us with the gifts that we have been blessed with. So go for it, determine in your heart you will do that thing you have been putting off. Is it that book you need to write, that article you need to write or that online course you have been wanting to create? Whatever it is, I challenge you to do the following seven things:

  1. Set time aside to develop the road map and goals you will have to achieve to make it happen.
  2. Stop procrastinating and begin, even if it means taking baby steps. Just get started.
  3. Find an accountability partner who will keep you on track.
  4. Commit to 30 minutes to one hour each day that you will do something to move you closer to attaining the goal.
  5. Reward yourself as you complete milestone markers along the way.
  6. Celebrate when you have completed the task, project or assignment.
  7. Repeat the steps with another road map and goals for your next project.

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!

 

Week of May 18, 2020

#NtentionalNsights  One of the key attributes discussed  a lot today is the importance of walking in authenticity.  People hear what you say, but believe what they see. Here are five factors I believe are key for walking in authenticity.

  1. Authenticity is about doing and saying the right thing even when it’s not popular. You may have to walk alone sometimes because of what you believe is true. This is where true leadership comes in. Are you a people pleaser or God pleaser?
  2. Authenticity is about being consistent with who you are no matter where you are. When you show up consistently with others; it keeps your stress level down and you don’t have to try and remember how you showed up the last time.
  3. Authenticity is about knowing what the non-negotiables are in your life and holding fast to your core values. When you are clear on this, you are confident and grounded when you make decisions.
  4. Authenticity is about encouraging others as you operate from the abundance mentality. There is enough to go around and what God has for you is for you.
  5. Authenticity is about knowing how to lead with your heart. Be willing to listen not just with your ears but keep you heart in the conversation too.

Strive to live an authentic life as you move forward to greater success, peace and love. One of my Nancyisms is, “Do you because everybody else is taken.” 

This has been your weekly #NtentionalNsight of Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Week!

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May 11, 2020

#NtentionalNsights During this pandemic, we have certainly had time to reflect, renew, rejuvenate and look for ways to reposition our lives, businesses and careers. This slow down of life has made me look at things with a new perspective. So many times, I hear people making excuses about what or why they couldn’t do something. For certain, we know that life does throw us curves and things happen that we were not expecting to encounter on our path. We have to know that is part of the journey. But many times, people just make excuses because they can. I challenge you to stop making excuses and move forward with execution of dreams that are important to you. Consider the following strategies to help you when you think about making your next excuse.

  1. Be honest with yourself…introspection time.
  2. People make time for the things and people important to them. Enough said!
  3. Set boundaries and realize you cannot be all things to all people.
  4. Stop whining and start winning. When you get ready to make an excuse, stop and count your blessings instead.
  5. Challenge your network to help you when they hear you making excuses…accountability is key!

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.

Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!

May 4, 2020

#NtentionalNsights  It is important that during times of change that you look for opportunities and lessons learned as you walk through the experience. It is a great time to reflect on lessons learned in the past that you can apply to your current situation. You can also take time to develop new skill sets and  #competencies. How have you grown during this ongoing #pandemic challenge? How have you shown love and reached out to people in your network, personal and professional? You see we often use the word LOVE, but remember it is an action word and requires that you do something. Consider the following tips to help you as we continue to move through these uncertain times.

  1. Don’t just say to others I love you; actually do something. Remember love is a verb.
  2. Show kindness to others, it is a language everyone understands.
  3. Remember that when you encounter people they have their own bucket of issues, so stop and consider how full their bucket by be before you react in a way that is not positive.  Slow down and think before you speak. Your words or actions, might just be the thing that cause their bucket to spill over!
  4. Don’t allow others or situations to disturb and take away your peace. This doesn’t mean you are not going through the perils of life; but it shows that you know who is carrying you through and you can enter into the rest and #peace of God. 

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!

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April 27, 2020

#NtentionalNsights  One of the qualities that we will talk about again this week during these chaotic  times is #RESILIENCE.  Everyone needs #resilience and the following strategies can help you navigate these uncertain times.                                

  1. Be willing to change the narrative and instead of reliving the pain over and over in your mind, challenge yourself to look at it from a different perspective that can provide you reflective insights and help you move forward.
  2. Look at the lessons learned from the experience and let go of the excess baggage weighing you down. A quote I saw years ago stated, ” I never lose, I either win or I learn.”
  3. Face your fears and as I have heard it said, simply do it afraid. When you refuse to quit and keep going in the face of fear, your faith begins to grow. When your faith is activated things begin to move in your life in a positive way.
  4. Lighten up on yourself and show some self-love. Be mindful about the situation, remember you are not alone and be kind to yourself.
  5. Forgiveness is powerful; so forgive all those who have hurt you so you can be free.
  6. Pray. Increase your prayer time with God and watch the amazing results as you begin to bask in peace.

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!

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April 20, 2020

#NtentionalNsights One of the qualities that is definitely needed during these challenging times is RESILIENCE.  Everyone needs resilience. When life hands you challenges how to do you bounce back, persevere and keep moving forward? So many times we think we have resilience and when life hits; we find out what we are really made of.  It reminds me of faith, we profess to have it but the true test of faith occurs when you need to move forward and all the evidence you see says no. Faith is not faith until it is tested. So the resilience you say you have emerges when adversity, chaos and challenges occur. We are going to spend a few weeks talking about this important topic that is definitely needed now in the lives of everyone. Consider some ABC’s of: 

                  

A – Acknowledge adversity…don’t let it trap you into the life of negative thinking.  Recognize the adversity and then process it through the lens of God as you ask Him for wisdom and knowledge in how to move forward. Don’t start having a pity  party,  blaming and condemning yourself and sinking into depression.  Spend time asking God how will  you be transformed through this season of challenge?  What will you become as a result of being God directed during this period? See adversity moving your mess into a message, your test into a testimony and your pain into a pearl.  Be transformed by the renewing of your mind during this time.

B – Beliefs…what do you believe? What is the foundation and core values that drive how you live your life? Are your beliefs built on an unshakeable faith and trust in God or are they built on what you can do on your own? When our beliefs are based on the word of God, it is like a house built on a firm foundation, when storms and challenges come; it will still continue to stand. What is the foundation of your beliefs built on?

C – Create a safe place where you retreat and keep your peace.  Stressors will come, but seek the peace of God which passes all understanding as your sanctuary.  When you create that safe place, no matter what happens you are confident that you will make it with your peace intact and you will simply keep going. 

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

 

April 13, 2020

#NtentionalNsights   During this time where things have slowed us down from the rapid and furious pace of life, take time to decide what lessons you are learning during this time and things you will do going forward. What new skill, hobby or craft will you work on developing during this time?  Some things are not necessarily lessons learned, but things we failed to do because of the hustle and bustle of life. Things I am doing differently and a few lessons I am relearning are below…

  1. When reaching out to others, consider at phone call instead of a text. People can hide issues in a text, but when you call them you can pick up on things going on, especially if you are spiritually  aware.  I recently called a colleague and she was elated that I took the time to call instead of text her as so many others had done. Little things don’t mean a lot, they mean everything.
  2. Check on people who live alone. Many people are struggling in this new normal and are craving  the contact with people. STOP and be a blessing to someone this week.
  3. Take time to  review some of those car insurance, home owners policies and shop around and see if you can get a better rate. I did it and was blessed by the savings I will receive. Stop making excuses…you certainly have the time to do it now! 

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration. 

Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

 

April 6, 2020

#Ntentional Nsights As we continue to navigate this time of challenge, I want to challenge with two simple things this week that require Being Intentional!

  1. #BeIntentional with your words.Make sure your words are speaking life, hope and faith. Remember Proverbs 18:21 in the Bible states that death and life are in the power of the tongue. What are you speaking over your life? Your words create life or death; they create what you experience in your world. What are you creating?  #BeIntentional this week and speak words that create the world you desire.
  2. #BeIntentional with your actions. Make sure your actions are in alignment with what you say. My mother would always remind me that ways and actions speak louder than words. What do your actions say? People hear what you say, but believe what they see. #BeIntentional with your actions this week and make sure they are congruent with what you say.  

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

 

March 30, 2020

Our new normal is giving us time to refocus, recalibrate and renew our minds. It is making us look at things with a new perspective, getting our vision in alignment will where God is taking you in this season of your life. A word I am hearing a lot these days is PIVOT. So here are some insights on how to PIVOT in your life.

P-Prepare, plan and proceed forward with the talent, treasure and skills God has given to you. Quit comparing your life to someone else and run the race God has set before you. Every person has their own struggle, challenge they must work through. The Bible reminds us to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. Take heed it says your OWN!

I-Illuminate your mind with positive words of encouragement, the Bible, those things that bring smiles to your life and make you laugh. Remember laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects. Find ways to brighten up your world. Give thanks each day you wake up…it is  an opportunity to be a light for someone else.

VVoice your message to the world in the different mediums you have about how you are getting back to basics, finding your inner peace and letting God rule your world. Let your voice be a mouthpiece to help people move from fear to faith, from panic to praise and sharing their trials that have become triumphs in their life.

O-Opportunities often come disguised as obstacles is a quote I heard years ago, that is worth repeating today. Use this time to use wisdom on how this can become your greatest moment. True leaders emerge when the heat is on. Let this time fuel opportunities and new ways of doing things in your business and career.

T-Teach others what you have learned in a way that everyone wins. Whether through webinars, FB lives or other modes you select. The key thing that all of us must be now is teachable. We don’t have all the answers and we must be open to how God will use people and situations to bless your life.

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

 

March 23, 2020

#Ntentional Nsights   As we all get used to the new normal of spending time in our homes or tele-working, we must truly learn the power of prayer and personal encouragement. So consider a word we are all very familiar with or should be to help you during this time. FAITH!

F– Focus on the things that matter most and those things that will keep you inspired and moving forward. That thing for me is the BIBLE…seeking more of God’s word and reminding myself of His promises each and every day and remembering how much He loves me.

A– Adapt an attitude of gratitude. Spend time counting your blessings not your troubles.

I– Imagine the possibilities of what can be. This is a time to open up your mind to the unlimited opportunities that God can help you see.

T– Totally commit to taking action and taking the steps to continue to walk in your destiny. Don’t look sideways…keep your eyes on your path.

H– Humble yourself and realize you are the vessel that God uses…do not think to highly of yourself. The word reminds us that pride comes before the fall. Practice walking in humility as you navigate the world of constant change and chaos!

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration. 

Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

March 16, 2020

 During these uncertain times, you have to remember that God is faithful and still in charge. So, gird up your faith and press forward doing things you need to do to strengthen you during this time.

  1. Read your Bible daily and find scriptures that will encourage you and remind you that you are not alone.
  2. Stay connected to positive and visionary people who are strong in their faith.
  3. Stay informed, but do not get consumed with the news.
  4. Practice good hygiene and safety tips that should have been done before this situation occurred.
  5. Now begin to strategize and take action on some of those goals you had planned to do someday. The day is now.
  6. Do things that make you laugh. A question I ask my coaching clients is what makes you laugh and most of them cannot answer that question. So I am asking you to answer it for yourself, what makes you laugh?
  7. Call people in your network and check on them.

This has been your Monday #NtentionalNsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

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March 2, 2020

As we enter the third month of 2020,  it is important to ask yourself  what have you done to move yourself closer to your goals and dreams? You have to do something different if you want to experience something different. Now is the time to take action and commit to doing the work to make your dreams a reality. Some points to consider as you move forward.

  1. Spend time with people who dream and have vision and are willing to do the hard work to walk in their destiny. Expand your network of visionaries.
  2. Minimize your time around whiners and complainers and negative people because if you are not careful you will be whining and complaining too. Shut down negativity with respect and dignity.
  3. Set boundaries in your life and determine to make sure self-care is a part of your daily living.
  4. Everyday wake up with an attitude of gratitude and count your blessings. Make each day count.

This has been your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration. 

Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

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February 24, 2020

As we focus on being intentional in our life; it is important to begin to think about our purpose. When I think about purpose, I consider what brings me fulfillment and joy whether it is attached to money or not. When you walk in your purpose, you never work another day in your life. Purpose drives you to move even when you are physically tired. Purpose is about finding out about your true gifts and treasures God has deposited inside you. Determine in your heart how you will find a way to live them out every day. When purpose and your passion connect, you walk in your destiny. Consider the following four questions as you think about your purpose in life.

  1. What do you love to do so much that you would be willing to do it for free?
  2. What brings you fulfillment and joy?
  3. How are you using your God given skills and talents on a daily basis?
  4. What steps do you need to take to walk your purpose out in your daily living?

As you reflect on how you answer the questions listed above, you will move closer to defining and refining your purpose. More on this topic in future.  This has been your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration. 

Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

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February 17, 2020

Each day you wake up is another chance to have a fresh
new start. An opportunity to do show more kindness, more love and grace to those who cross your path. It is a day God has given you to make a difference in the life of someone else. It is a chance to move forward in the dreams and goals God has given you that will allow you to walk in your destiny. So today make a commitment to do the following four things:

1) Give thanks for another sunrise.
2) Be intentional with your time, talent & treasures.
3) Be kind to yourself.
4) Spread love wherever you go.

This has been your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration. Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

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February 10, 2020

The life of the entrepreneur is a FAITH walk that requires you network, connect and market your product or service to businesses. What entrepreneurs fail to realize is the amount of rejection and nos you have to get used to receiving. I believe no is simply Next Opportunity and so I keep on going. It was a lesson I learned over the years. Entrepreneurs must not
only follow up but follow through when meeting new business prospects. I share the following statistics I found to encourage you to keep going, keep the faith and work on connecting and building solid relationships.

44% of sales people give up after one “no”
22% give up after two “nos”
14% give up after three “nos”
12% give up after four “nos”

This tells you that 92% of the sales people give up after four
"nos" and only 8% of sales people ask for the order the fifth time.
As an entrepreneur you are a sales person whether you like it or
not. Learn the art of moving pass the no and seeing it as your
next opportunity. Where are you in the no cycle? This has been
your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration. Make it a Mountain
Moving Monday!!

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February 3, 2020

Practicing self-care requires being intentional. Most of us are very busy, have stressful jobs and are consumed with technology and we don’t stop to take ME time. ME time is needed to refuel, recharge and renew your mind, spirit and body. Self-care is a decision you must make and has to be purposeful and intentional. It is not optional when you determine that taking care of the temple of God is primary. When you practice self-care, you are able to be there for others. The following are a few of the things I do for self-care, consider adopting some of them or simply create your own.

  1. Learn how to say NO!
  2. Create a laughter journal. Reflect on things, situations, tv shows that make you laugh.
  3. Exercise…just get started!
  4. Have a “staycation” and relax at home. Don’t announce to everyone that you are there. This is time for you to renew you!
  5. Rest before you get tired. Go to bed and get the rest your body needs.
    Journal.
  6. Read your Bible and stay connected to God!

This has been your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration. Make it a Mountain

Moving Monday!!

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January 27, 2020

Life is so fragile…determine to make each day count. We call it the present for a reason. So often, we plan to take that vacation, visit a friend, call that person we needed to apologize to and we simply get busy with the rigors of life and don’t do it. As I reflect on the passing of Kobe Bryant, I share ten insights to consider to apply to your life. 

  1. Love hard.
  2. Commit to living a life of FAITH.
  3. Forgive quickly.
  4. Stay out of strife and mess.
  5. Keep your peace.
  6. Keep your joy.
  7. Laugh more.
  8. Set boundaries and know when to say NO.
  9. Quit procrastinating…tomorrow is not promised.
  10. Be spiritually grounded and anchored in God. 

This has been your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

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January 20, 2020

It is vital that business professionals and entrepreneurs be mindful of things we do that could impact our integrity level with others. So often, we say things and commit to things without thinking of what it will take to deliver. Consider the following keys on ways to make sure your integrity level is not eroding with others. The world is very small and you never know who you will interact with on your professional business and career journey.

1. Honor your commitments. Do what you say you will do. This ranges from returning phone calls to emails from customers, colleagues and other businesses. Stop screening calls and simply be honest with people about what you need or do not need from them. Sending an email is always a way out; but not responding at all could impact your integrity especially when you said you would follow up. Treat people the way you would want someone to treat you in the same situation. Walk the walk and talk the talk.

2. Communicate honestly. Be open and transparent with others about your requests and needs. Don’t exaggerate or share things that are not true. Keep the communication lines open and be willing to receive feedback from others that will help you grow. Stop comparing yourself with others; you are on your own track. Communicate your authentic message when you talk to others. Be YOU and not a copy of someone else!

3. Take ownership for your actions. Ownership is taking responsibility for your actions and being okay with the consequences. If you messed up or misinterpreted information; be willing to confess and admit your mistake. Remember failure is simple a detour that rerouted you where you learned a lesson of what doesn’t work. Keep going and quit blaming others and making excuses about what didn’t get done and look for solutions to make it right. Let your actions cause others to be encouraged because of your humility.  As the Bible states, he who humbles himself shall be exalted. This has been your Monday Ntentional Nsight Nspiration.  Make it a Mountain Moving Monday!!

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January 13, 2020

 This year commit to doing everything in the spirit of excellence and be so good at what you do, they cannot forget you. Below are a seven things you can do to make yourself memorable:

  1. Do what you promise…integrity is everything.
  2. Remember everyone is important so treat everyone with dignity and respect no matter what their title or role.
  3. Be willing to be a resource for other people.
  4. Learn the art of Connecting and quit just exchanging business cards as an activity with no results.
  5. Stay in touch…Follow up.
  6. Find the issues or concerns your customers have and bring solutions.
  7. Follow through…this is where many people lose it. Follow through is beyond follow up. It is staying the course in reaching out to clients over a longer period of time. When you do this, you keep good notes of all the previous conversations and start from their when you reconnect. Also, send articles and things of interest to them throughout the year.

This has been your Monday morning Ntentional Nsight Nspiration.  Make it a mighty Monday!!

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January 9, 2020

The power of Being intentional is about making sure your words and actions are congruent. Do you have a habit of not returning phone calls when you have told others to reach out to you? Do you read the email that was sent by a person you connected with and don’t return? Being intentional is about honoring your word and doing what you say you will do. Life happens and we all get busy; one thing is certain, we return the calls and follow up with people that are a priority in our life. Sometimes, we simply need to not commit to things or tell people, I will get back with you and then after months you don’t do it. This week I challenge you to be intentional with the things you say you will do and just do it. You never know who you will have to reach out to in this game called life. This has been your Monday morning Ntentional Nsight Nspiration.

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January 2, 2020

A new decade, a new year; let this be the year you determine to be a NEW YOU! Remember old things have passed away; behold all things have become new. Let go of things and relationships that do not help you grow and be your best YOU! Recognize that you are an eagle and eagles only hang with other eagles, not bluebirds, redbirds or robins. Love those in your life, but refuse to entertain toxic and negative conversations. Challenge people to focus on things they are thankful for and to simply count their blessings. Choose to be a first rate you and not a second rate someone else. Strive to run in the lane of excellence, the traffic in that lane is not as crowded. Refuse to remain the same this year. Determine that you will grow in your spiritual walk with God and continue to grow in other areas of your life as well. Let this be a year where your vision for your life gains clarity and perfection. This has been your Monday morning Ntentional Nsight Nspiration. Happy New Year!!

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December 26, 2019

This week as we enter the last month of the year, I challenge you to finish strong. Be:

S-steadfast in your pursuit of excellence

T-trustworthy and honor your commitments

R-resilient and responsible for your actions

O-open your mind to the possibilities of what can be

N-nurture relationships because Relationships Rule!

G-grow in your relationship with GOD!!

This has been your morning Ntentional Nsight Nspiration.  Make it an amazing week!

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December 19, 2019

This week purpose in your heart you will be the answer to someone’s prayer. Commit to showing compassion, empathy and a random act of a kindness. Just so you know a random act of kindness is doing something for someone that had no idea they were going to be blessed. It is paying for the person’s grocery behind you or paying for the car behind you in quick service line. This week determine in your heart that you will be a giver; give of your time, talent and treasure to others who cross your path. This has been your Monday morning Ntentional Nsight Nspiration.

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February 20, 2018

Positioning Yourself for Success

By Nancy J. Lewis

Positioning yourself for success is necessary in a competitive world where change is the only constant. Being in position is about being open to the importance of reinventing and retooling your skills to improve your marketability in your career and business. It is about knowing what your strengths are and how to leverage them in helping you achieve success. What position are preparing for as you move forward? What do you need to do to make sure you are ready for the position you desire? Consider the following strategies for positioning yourself for success.

1. Plan for success.
This requires sitting down and deciding what you want to achieve in your career and business. It is about setting specific goals with milestones along the way to make sure you are on track to have the success you desire. It is about speaking words that are creating the success you desire.
It requires doing a data dump of old scripts and information from your past and downloading new software in your mind that is filled with unlimited possibilities that are available to you with your new plan of action.

2. Create a circle of like-minded thinkers.
Positioning yourself for success requires evaluating your inner circle of people you spend time with now. It is important to create a group of like-minded thinkers that might also be called your mastermind group. These are individuals who will challenge you, encourage you, and inspire and ignite you to tap into your hidden potential. These are individuals who are positive thinkers and possibility thinkers who recognize and celebrate the greatness inside of you.

3. Learn the art of connecting in building relationships.
More than ever before, business and career opportunities happen because of relationships. It is vital that you become a savvy networker that knows the art of connecting and cultivating meaningful relationships. When meeting people at events spend time learning about them and what they do and establish a connection so there will be dialogue beyond that conversation. As you make the connection and follow up, that contact over time can lead to a contract. Take your time and find ways to add value as you nurture the relationship and watch it grow.

4. Ask for help.                                                                                                              You don’t have to do everything yourself. So many times we feel as women, we can do it all. We have the superwoman complex. If that is you, stop and exhale and do something special just for you this month. You don’t have to be all things to all people all the time. Balance things out and get your family and friends involved to help you out. Learn the art of how to say NO graciously and be willing to ask for help. It is amazing when we learn to do this, the load we carry becomes lighter and our stress level decreases. It gives us the freedom and momentum to soar. This also is relevant for men too!

5. Have a strong spiritual foundation to keep you anchored.
It is essential to have a strong spiritual foundation to navigate through the constant and rapid change in our lives, careers, and businesses. You must know with all certainty that God is your source, strength and shield and that as you walk with Him all things are possible. Stay anchored in your faith walk, stay true to your purpose, and position yourself to be ready for the great things God has in store for you. A strong spiritual foundation equips and empowers you to win!

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February 13, 2018

It’s All About Attitude: Do You Have An Attitude Worth Catching?

By Nancy J. Lewis, MS, SHRM-CP, PHR, RCC

In the complex world of change, chaos, and uncertainty, we must examine the attitude we embrace. One quick way to assess an attitude of another person is to ask yourself how you feel when they leave your presence? Do you feel inspired and charged up ready to take on the world or you do feel like the life has been zapped out of you? Ask yourself, how do people feel when they leave your presence? Each and everyday you must decide the attitude you will embrace. You maybe faced with challenges and difficult people, but it is still a personal decision as to how you allow the attitude of others to influence your attitude. Consider the following seven strategies for improving your attitude.

1. Surround yourself with positive people. Look at those people that are a part of your network and examine the weather (attitude) that they carry. If gloom and doom is all they bring to you consistently, give them a reality check and make them aware of what they are doing. So often people who are consistently negative are not aware of their negative energy. If they are non-responsive, you may have to minimize the time you interact with them. People who fail to change often become toxic and if you stick close to them that toxicity may rub off on you. Seek out those people who recognize the challenges of the day but continue to face them with a positive attitude. Strive to align yourself with people with energy, excitement for life and a positive outlook on the circumstances they face.

2. Read and listen to motivational and inspirational books and tapes. This is a great way to keep yourself inspired and focused on the possibilities of life. When you wake up in the morning, instead of turning on the television, spend those first minutes reading inspirational, biblical, or motivational books. If you drive to work, put in a CD or tape. If you ride the train or bus, read books or invest in a personal CD player and fill your mind with positive thoughts. You have no excuses because you can go to your local library and get books and tapes. Information on anything you want is on the Internet. You simply must have a desire to find ways to maintain a positive attitude.

3. Count your blessings. Recognize that no matter how things maybe, see the blessing in the midst of the chaos and confusion. As you reflect on the blessing that will help you get things in perspective and help you see the glass half full versus half empty.

4. Smile. Be mindful of your countenance and body language. What messages do you send to people when they interact with you? A smile says to others that you are approachable and it costs nothing.

5. Take time to appreciate the simple things in life. Take a walk in the park and don’t just rush by the roses, instead take time to enjoy and smell them. Take time to watch a sunset and remember who to thank. Spend time with those less fortunate and seek opportunities to give words of encouragement to those who pass your way.

6. Believe in yourself. Recognize that you are special and unique. There is no one else quite like you. So let your positive attitude shine. Walk and talk with confidence and know that you have something special to contribute to the world.

7. Live each day to the fullest. Quit putting off some of the things you want to do in life and go for the gusto now. Learn to maximize the minutes of each day. Practice these strategies to help you maintain a winning attitude; an attitude others want to catch!

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February 6, 2018

LITTLE THINGS MATTER

By Nancy J. Lewis

In the world of business and life, it is so important to strive to make sure our words and actions are congruent. So often, we commit and make promises that we fall short of fulfilling. Yes, the reality is life happens and we forget, get busy or simply forget what we committed to. But the person, you committed to is holding you to what you promised. You may say well things happen and I just forgot. That may be true, but the world is very, very small and broken promises can come back and haunt you. It is critical that we as professionals make sure our words and actions are in alignment. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what you say, people believe what you do. So here are a few questions and tips to help you the next time someone asks something of you.

  1. Stop and ask yourself is this something I can do based on the things going on in my life and on my calendar?
  2. Would someone else on my staff or network be able to help them with this?
  3. Is this busy work I am a committing to or is it something that is in line with my goals?
  4. If I commit to this, am I writing it down or putting it in my phone at the time of discussion? Determine who is charged with the responsibility of the follow up.
  5. Think carefully before you respond and commit as you cannot be all things to all people.
  6. Sometimes you simply have to say “NO.”
  7. When you drop the ball and forget, call, email or text and extend your apologies. This shows respect and that you value the person and is good business etiquette.

The bottom line is we need to remember an old phrase used many times in business, “Under promise and over deliver.” Little things really do matter when you are dealing with people…BEintentional with what you say and do!

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January 30, 2018

THREE STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE YOUR PUBLIC SPEAKING

By Nancy J. Lewis

People have a great fear of public speaking because so many times they feel they are out of their comfort zone. In today’s world of work, being an effective communicator can often be the tipping point for that next job or career opportunity. It is essential to work on strategies that will help you with your next presentation whether presenting to one or hundreds of people. Below are three simple strategies to help you deliver your next message with more confidence.

  1. Prepare thoroughly. Spend time researching and getting more information than you will need so you can have reserve knowledge to share if needed. When you prepare adequately, it allows you to own the material and present it in a more conversational way.
  1. Start your presentation with a question relating to the topic at hand to get them involved. This can be done in a form of an ice breaker or small group exercise. The key is to get them involved.
  1. Share personal stories that are relevant to your message. It makes it real and relevant to what people are dealing with on a daily basis. Audiences love the authenticity of speakers sharing lessons they have learned that relate to the topic. It makes you real and opens up the door for honest and meaningful dialogue.

I will share more strategies in future Tuesday Tune Ups. In the meantime, practice these three strategies when presenting and have fun doing it.

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January 23, 2018

NSIGHTS FROM A BOOMERLINNIAL™ (A BOOMER WITH AN EXPERTISE ON MILLENNIALS)

By Nancy J. Lewis

As I travel the country conducting workshops around leveraging generations in the workplace, there are definitely challenges in how the different co-hort groups work together. In some organizations, things are going okay and they are striving to work more effectively together. In other organizations, they are having major struggles and workplace interactions are strained. For organizations to gain greater profitability, productivity and performance, all generations in the workplace must learn to appreciate the strengths they bring to the company. As a Boomer who works with all generations and has a book on Millennials, I am providing three tips that will help younger generations work more effectively with Boomers.

1. When working with Boomers, lean towards formally. Instead of calling them by their first name, add Ms. Lewis or Ms. Nancy. They will let you know if you can call them by their first name. This is simply showing respect for their wisdom and age.

2. When entering a room and you are going to work with them, speak first before you start to ask them what you need. It can be as simple as hello and then proceed with your inquiry. When you walk in and begin to speak and don’t show good manners, this will impact the relationship and how they work with you. Manners are still essential in 2018.

3. When Millennials are leading Boomers as their manager, value their knowledge, insight and experience they have gained over the years. Seek their input and ask them for their suggestions, you are still the leader but they know things that could help you on your journey in that role. Remember, you cannot Bing, Yahoo or Google experience; you have to walk
it out as they have done. These are 3 simple things when used can positively improve relationships with Boomers in the workplace. The choice is yours to practice them or not. If you do, you will see improved and more effective interactions with
Boomers.

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January 16, 2018

AUTHENTICITY… BEING TRUE TO YOURSELF!

By Nancy J. Lewis

Authenticity has been defined by The American Heritage College Dictionary as the quality or condition of being authentic, trustworthy or genuine. So let’s look at the word authentic and one of the definitions I loved was not being counterfeit or copied. It is about being true to your authentic self. A Nancyism I often quote is, “Do you because everyone else is taken.”

So here are three simple ways to maintain authenticity:

1) Be willing to speak out for what you know is right. It may not be the popular thing and you may find yourself walking to a music by yourself. It is about your moral compass, your values and principles that guide how you live your life; the willingness not to compromise because of what you believe. It can be a lonely walk with consequences that can impact your
career and business. I am convinced when you do the right thing God is always on your side and you can look in the mirror and be at peace with yourself. Remember policies may change, but principles you believe in do not.

2) Create and develop your own style. You may admire others and what they do; but don’t desire to copy them. Each one of us has been given unique gifts and talents by God and we need to seek ways to develop them and let them shine. Learn to tap into your inner greatness so you can walk in your authentic self.

3) Your behavior and actions are consistent with what you say when you interact with others. This simply means that whether in the grocery store or business setting; your message is congruent with your words and actions. Remember actions speak louder than words and it doesn’t matter what you say; people believe what they see. Choose today to commit to living a life where people don’t have to wonder who will show up when they come in contact with you. Enough said!

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January 9, 2018

RELATIONSHIPS STILL RULE IN 2018

By Nancy J. Lewis

As a former Dale Carnegie Instructor, the ability to win friends and influence people is still a key factor to building strong relationships. People are looking to engage and work with people who are authentic in their behavior, intentional with their
actions and have a sincere desire to learn more about others. As the year kicks off, most individuals are back in the routine of attending events, marketing and networking…while a better skill to develop this year is the art of connecting.
Consider the following strategies in this week's tune up Tuesday to help you navigate the business world when networking and connecting with others in 2018.

1. Focus on the other person and give them all your attention. Be engaging and ask questions and then practice the skill of active listening. Listening to others is a gift and will separate you from most individuals who hear but don't listen. Be interested in them and what they have to say while you are talking to them. Tip…Make them feel like they are the only person in the room.

2. Be authentic. Stay true to who you are when you attend events by being real with your words and actions. One of my Nancyisms is, do you because everyone else is taken.

3. Learn the art of connecting and not just networking and passing out cards which most people do nothing with. It is not about how many cards you get; it is about the art of truly connecting with 2-3 people that you will have dialogue with beyond
the meeting.

4. Follow up and follow through with those individuals you connected with. Simply doing this will put you ahead of so many others because most people don’t do this well.

5. Do your homework before you attend an event to make sure it is the best use of your time. Fact…every event does not require your attendance.

6. Be able to share what you do succinctly and clearly with others. Consider the following statement…I help ________ to _________. It is a simple framework that allows you to share with them what you do and the value you bring and opens
the door for more conversation.

7. Smile and be approachable. Enough said!

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