Buffett goes to Wharton
Why Warren Buffett views his job as similar to painting the Sistine Chapel.
By Nicholas Varchaver, senior editor
Warren Buffett
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(Fortune) -- In a presentation he made to students at the Wharton School earlier this month and a subsequent interview with Fortune, Warren Buffett shared his thoughts on everything from the economy to the credit crisis and the Bear Stearns bailout.
In this Web exclusive, we present further excerpts from his talk with the students, in which the megabillionaire offers his insights on judging managers, buying businesses, what metrics - if any - he relies upon, and why he views his job as similar to painting the Sistine Chapel.
Q: You said before that one of the things you look for in businesses you're buying is good managers who are honest, capable, and hard-working. To me, that's a hard judgment to make if you haven't known him for long on a personal level. How do you go about figuring that out about somebody, and how long does it take you to make that evaluation?
WB: Well, almost always, we're buying businesses where the managers come with it, so I do have a record [I can judge]. If I had to pick out the five people in this group here who would be the best managers, I wouldn't know how to do it. I mean, you all have great IQs, you have great academic records. You've all shown the energy to get into school and push hard and all that. So you'd have all these attractive qualities.
See the rest of the article: http://money.cnn.com/2008/05/01/news/companies/Buffet_Q_A_at_Wharton.fortune/index.htm?postversion=2008050209
Monday, June 09, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
A New Adventure
Anyone who knows me, knows I look at life as an adventure. There so much to see, experience, do, achieve, and enjoy. I love travelling and experiencing other cultures...it's my adrenaline.
John and I moved to Tucson, Arizona 8 years ago amidst the disbelief and shock of our friends and family. What was out in Arizona for us? A new adventure. We sold most of our belongings (there wasn't much in our 2 bedroom apartment), packed up our dog Jay and a small Uhaul and began the adventure with my friend Tina.
With no jobs and no plan, we created a life in Arizona together. First living in a tiny apartment, we found jobs for ourselves and inspired to create a life of financial abundance. Within a year, we bought our first home and began planning our wedding. The following year we were married and entrepreneurs. Almost 8 years later, we live in a huge house with a magnificent view, drive incredible cars and had accomplished everything we set out to accomplish.
In fact, when we lived in the apartment, we looked up at the ridge tops where we now live and said, "One day, we'll live there". Now we do and we can actually look down at the apartment we used to live in...dreams DO come true.
We revelled in our accomplishments for a while and then began to stagnate. Seriously...we got bored. We looked around one day and realized we were living in the land of retired people. We are 1 of 2 Bentley owners in town and a "HOT" Friday night out is dinner.
So, when we came to Los Angeles in January, for a few weeks of fun and adventure with our dogs, we saw a huge contrast. We had so much to do...so much fun. Catch a show, see a band, walk to the cafes...we had a blast. We stayed a few more weeks and then, in the midst of walking our dogs at a local park overlooking the Hollywood Sign, John turned to me and said, "I could live here." My response: "I could TOTALLY live here." As we walked back to our LA habitat, John looked at me and said, "Are we really talking about moving to Los Angeles?".
Yes, we were. In a moment of pure spontanaity, we decided to join the land of the excited and living again and move to Los Angeles. We arrived yesterday with our dogs into our new home in Los Feliz (Hollywood). It is the greatest benefit of being self-employed and financially free - there's no limits to what is possible.
Again, we faced a bit of the "...you're moving where? why?". We shocked quite a few people with our sudden decision and rapid, progressive action moving forward to make it all happen in less than 8 weeks!
And, we're loving it. I feel like a little kid on a great adventure. This morning, we walked to the Mustard Seed cafe for a great breakfast and lattes. Yes! We walked! From our home in Tucson, begind a multitude of gates, there is no walking anywhere, yet here we got to take a casual stroll of our home...walking hand in hand and enjoying each others company as well as a beautiful, sunny LA morning. We walked the dogs this morning and met Ashley, a local with a great dog Cassidy. Within 24 hours of arriving, I've already made friends - that took me quite a while in Tucson!
So, we're having a blast. Our home in Tucson will serve as a great spot for "country living" and we can visit our rental properties (we have furnished vacation rentals: www.luxurytucsonrentals.com) if we want to enjoy the vistas or go for a hike.
In the meantime, we'll enjoy the excitement of Los Angeles. And, it's no wonder business is booming. Creating momentum in life...taking that bold step forward, creates amazing results. It's what life is all about. It's a pure shot of adrenaline, creating the experience and enjoying a new adventure.
I'll be sure to keep you up to date on all we're experiencing.
I'd better go now...got lots of boxes waiting:)
John and I moved to Tucson, Arizona 8 years ago amidst the disbelief and shock of our friends and family. What was out in Arizona for us? A new adventure. We sold most of our belongings (there wasn't much in our 2 bedroom apartment), packed up our dog Jay and a small Uhaul and began the adventure with my friend Tina.
With no jobs and no plan, we created a life in Arizona together. First living in a tiny apartment, we found jobs for ourselves and inspired to create a life of financial abundance. Within a year, we bought our first home and began planning our wedding. The following year we were married and entrepreneurs. Almost 8 years later, we live in a huge house with a magnificent view, drive incredible cars and had accomplished everything we set out to accomplish.
In fact, when we lived in the apartment, we looked up at the ridge tops where we now live and said, "One day, we'll live there". Now we do and we can actually look down at the apartment we used to live in...dreams DO come true.
We revelled in our accomplishments for a while and then began to stagnate. Seriously...we got bored. We looked around one day and realized we were living in the land of retired people. We are 1 of 2 Bentley owners in town and a "HOT" Friday night out is dinner.
So, when we came to Los Angeles in January, for a few weeks of fun and adventure with our dogs, we saw a huge contrast. We had so much to do...so much fun. Catch a show, see a band, walk to the cafes...we had a blast. We stayed a few more weeks and then, in the midst of walking our dogs at a local park overlooking the Hollywood Sign, John turned to me and said, "I could live here." My response: "I could TOTALLY live here." As we walked back to our LA habitat, John looked at me and said, "Are we really talking about moving to Los Angeles?".
Yes, we were. In a moment of pure spontanaity, we decided to join the land of the excited and living again and move to Los Angeles. We arrived yesterday with our dogs into our new home in Los Feliz (Hollywood). It is the greatest benefit of being self-employed and financially free - there's no limits to what is possible.
Again, we faced a bit of the "...you're moving where? why?". We shocked quite a few people with our sudden decision and rapid, progressive action moving forward to make it all happen in less than 8 weeks!
And, we're loving it. I feel like a little kid on a great adventure. This morning, we walked to the Mustard Seed cafe for a great breakfast and lattes. Yes! We walked! From our home in Tucson, begind a multitude of gates, there is no walking anywhere, yet here we got to take a casual stroll of our home...walking hand in hand and enjoying each others company as well as a beautiful, sunny LA morning. We walked the dogs this morning and met Ashley, a local with a great dog Cassidy. Within 24 hours of arriving, I've already made friends - that took me quite a while in Tucson!
So, we're having a blast. Our home in Tucson will serve as a great spot for "country living" and we can visit our rental properties (we have furnished vacation rentals: www.luxurytucsonrentals.com) if we want to enjoy the vistas or go for a hike.
In the meantime, we'll enjoy the excitement of Los Angeles. And, it's no wonder business is booming. Creating momentum in life...taking that bold step forward, creates amazing results. It's what life is all about. It's a pure shot of adrenaline, creating the experience and enjoying a new adventure.
I'll be sure to keep you up to date on all we're experiencing.
I'd better go now...got lots of boxes waiting:)
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Italy was Awesome!
I just returned from a week in Italy. It was a blast! John and I went to attend the Summit Conference with Liberty League International (it was spectacular as always).
There were so many things that I loved about Rome: the Colloseum, the Pantheon, the
endless, ageless architecture, the Palantine, Trevi Fountain, the food, the people, and so much more!
Coming from Arizona, where everything is pretty much less than 100 years old, being in Rome with architecture that is still standing from before Christ, was awesome. I used to think that the old churches and such that were 200 years old in New Jersey (where I grew up) were incredible...now they pale in comparison. To see the quality of structure, the passion of design, the intensity of the artwork and the commitment of the artists was inspiring, to say the least. There is so much history in Rome...more than even 1 week could allow us to digest.
John and I joined our friends Shane and Michelle for a tour of the Colloseum. Not only was it far grander than I ever anticipated, it was filled with so much history. I could actually feel the energy of the stones radiating through the facility. Walking in, I never imagined the height of the arch ways (about 3 - 4 stories high). I never imagined, that without cranes and all the modern machinery, that archways could be built so huge and solid...solid enough to ensure earthquakes, fires and centuries of weathering. As I walked through the immense halways and up the ancient staircases into the main Colloseum areas, I could envision the gladiators fighting battles within the walls, hear the cheers of the Romans...What a time to live! I was almost waiting for Russel Crowe to come running through the entry gates!
There were so many memorable dining experiences. The food was incredible (too incredible!...needless to say I hit the gym first thing this morning), the wine delightful and the atmosphere so relaxing. We enjoyed several the of the quaint little cafes for cappuchinos and expressos, as well as some delicious gelato (found on just about every corner). No surprise that Starbuck's was nowhere to be found!
We took a Taxi one evening to enjoy a dinner with friends at a unique restaurant (who's name escapes me at the moment). The restaurant was incredibly authentic (go figure..it's Rome!) with beautiful stone walls and artwork, brick floors and well hidden down a narrow ally way within the maze of rome. John's family is Italian and I've had several dinners with them...the huge amounts of food prepared for days, hours of dining and multiple courses, loud conversation, even the occassional argument! This restaurant was quite the same...an abundance of everything, freshly prepared. The food was delicious
and the atmosphere even better. The restaurant is built on the former restaurant (below street level...the street level was raised due to flooding), so after dinner we went downstairs for a tour. Beneath the old restaurant (yes, old...more than 400 years old!) is an ancient Christian prison that is 2000 years old. We enjoyed a drink of champagne and loudly sang folk songs admiring the acoustics of the old architecture. There was even a natural dipping well that used to be outside of the old restaurant!
The taxi ride in itself was an adventure, narrowly inching along the one way snake-like streets between the shops, cafes and buildings. The taxi drivers are truly gifted...how they know to find anything is beyond me!
Everything in Rome tells a story...you walk down the street past some relatively modern buildings (100 or 200 years old) and then stumble upon the Forum...acient! The old and the new are weaved together, telling the complex story of Rome through the centuries. To see such a structure standing after thousands of years, with it's incredible legacy of history, each brick telling a unique and powerful story, was a treasured moment. All of the Roman ruins we visited were designed with such passion, built to make a statement and to last. They were testaments of a person's life, a country's legacy to the world. And for this, they are visited by millions each year, in awe of their immense contribution to the development of the modern world.
One of my favorite sites was the Trevi Fountain. It is absolutely immense and quite an accomplishment. The details of the fountain are so spectacular and breathtaking...even more so than any photograph can ever portray. It was fun visiting it as well because we ran into a few friends while there.
We spent a day touring the Vatican. Vatican City is a state itself, hidden behind tall stark walls. We had a wonderful tour prepared by my friend Robin. She even got us into the Treasure Room of the Sistine Chapel, where we got to witness first hand some of the immense wealth of the Catholic Church: jewel ensrusted crowns delivered as gifts by Queens and Kings, the gold threaded, hand embroidered vestiments worn by popes for centuries, the tiny embroidered shoes of 19th century popes and the legacy created by Pope John Paul II, who chose to forego the lavish precendents of previous
popes, choosing instead basic garments. There were chalices laden with diamonds and sapphires, rings of the brightest, purest emeralds I've ever seen. It was incredible!
The Sistine chapel was breathtaking...with the incredible fresco paintings of Michaelangelo. I always though he painted them on his back, yet that is not true...he was standing the entire time. Definetely showed me how I can take on someone else's bullshit when they say it matter of fact...I've been believing that for years! The paintings were so real, three-dimensional and brightly colored. They told stories from the Bible in such vivid detail.
Most of all, what I found incredible was St. Peter's Basilica. It took Centuries to
complete and was immense...far larger than I ever expected. The carvings and sculptures were so impressive. I was overwhelmed with the dedication people must have had to commit their lives to building and completing it. Ever inch of the Basilica is decorated to tell a story of a pope or from the Bible. Every sculpture is exceptional...and there were thousands!
The day before we left, John and I spent a relaxing day walking together throughout
Rome. I enjoyed the time together, visiting Palantine, walking past the Basilicas, and touring the shopping district. We enjoyed a great dinner off the street in one of the many open air restaurants.
All in all, Rome was incredible. I must admit I was a bit shocked by all the grafitti and the prostitutes (I mean the Catholic church is right there!), but even with that, there's something magical about Rome. Maybe it's the food or the coffee or the majestic sites...but Rome is a place I definitely want to go back to.
International travel is quite an eye opener. The US dollar is pretty much worthless in Europe...in Italy, the Euro is about 1.5 times the dollar and in England the pound was 2.2 the dollar (a train ride from the airport to the city was 59 pounds round trip for John and I...equivalent to about $130.00 US). A taxi cost about 45 pounds or $90.00US....it's kind of crazy how little value our dollar has. That absolutely had me thinking about the state of our economy and how urgent it is for people to become self-reliant and prosperous.
I love being an entrepreneur...the freedom that comes from knowing I am in control of my life, my time and my income is very freeing. Especially since I market in the UK and make twice the profit in US dollars!
There were so many things that I loved about Rome: the Colloseum, the Pantheon, the
endless, ageless architecture, the Palantine, Trevi Fountain, the food, the people, and so much more!Coming from Arizona, where everything is pretty much less than 100 years old, being in Rome with architecture that is still standing from before Christ, was awesome. I used to think that the old churches and such that were 200 years old in New Jersey (where I grew up) were incredible...now they pale in comparison. To see the quality of structure, the passion of design, the intensity of the artwork and the commitment of the artists was inspiring, to say the least. There is so much history in Rome...more than even 1 week could allow us to digest.
John and I joined our friends Shane and Michelle for a tour of the Colloseum. Not only was it far grander than I ever anticipated, it was filled with so much history. I could actually feel the energy of the stones radiating through the facility. Walking in, I never imagined the height of the arch ways (about 3 - 4 stories high). I never imagined, that without cranes and all the modern machinery, that archways could be built so huge and solid...solid enough to ensure earthquakes, fires and centuries of weathering. As I walked through the immense halways and up the ancient staircases into the main Colloseum areas, I could envision the gladiators fighting battles within the walls, hear the cheers of the Romans...What a time to live! I was almost waiting for Russel Crowe to come running through the entry gates!
There were so many memorable dining experiences. The food was incredible (too incredible!...needless to say I hit the gym first thing this morning), the wine delightful and the atmosphere so relaxing. We enjoyed several the of the quaint little cafes for cappuchinos and expressos, as well as some delicious gelato (found on just about every corner). No surprise that Starbuck's was nowhere to be found!
We took a Taxi one evening to enjoy a dinner with friends at a unique restaurant (who's name escapes me at the moment). The restaurant was incredibly authentic (go figure..it's Rome!) with beautiful stone walls and artwork, brick floors and well hidden down a narrow ally way within the maze of rome. John's family is Italian and I've had several dinners with them...the huge amounts of food prepared for days, hours of dining and multiple courses, loud conversation, even the occassional argument! This restaurant was quite the same...an abundance of everything, freshly prepared. The food was delicious
and the atmosphere even better. The restaurant is built on the former restaurant (below street level...the street level was raised due to flooding), so after dinner we went downstairs for a tour. Beneath the old restaurant (yes, old...more than 400 years old!) is an ancient Christian prison that is 2000 years old. We enjoyed a drink of champagne and loudly sang folk songs admiring the acoustics of the old architecture. There was even a natural dipping well that used to be outside of the old restaurant!
The taxi ride in itself was an adventure, narrowly inching along the one way snake-like streets between the shops, cafes and buildings. The taxi drivers are truly gifted...how they know to find anything is beyond me!
Everything in Rome tells a story...you walk down the street past some relatively modern buildings (100 or 200 years old) and then stumble upon the Forum...acient! The old and the new are weaved together, telling the complex story of Rome through the centuries. To see such a structure standing after thousands of years, with it's incredible legacy of history, each brick telling a unique and powerful story, was a treasured moment. All of the Roman ruins we visited were designed with such passion, built to make a statement and to last. They were testaments of a person's life, a country's legacy to the world. And for this, they are visited by millions each year, in awe of their immense contribution to the development of the modern world.
One of my favorite sites was the Trevi Fountain. It is absolutely immense and quite an accomplishment. The details of the fountain are so spectacular and breathtaking...even more so than any photograph can ever portray. It was fun visiting it as well because we ran into a few friends while there. 
We spent a day touring the Vatican. Vatican City is a state itself, hidden behind tall stark walls. We had a wonderful tour prepared by my friend Robin. She even got us into the Treasure Room of the Sistine Chapel, where we got to witness first hand some of the immense wealth of the Catholic Church: jewel ensrusted crowns delivered as gifts by Queens and Kings, the gold threaded, hand embroidered vestiments worn by popes for centuries, the tiny embroidered shoes of 19th century popes and the legacy created by Pope John Paul II, who chose to forego the lavish precendents of previous
popes, choosing instead basic garments. There were chalices laden with diamonds and sapphires, rings of the brightest, purest emeralds I've ever seen. It was incredible!The Sistine chapel was breathtaking...with the incredible fresco paintings of Michaelangelo. I always though he painted them on his back, yet that is not true...he was standing the entire time. Definetely showed me how I can take on someone else's bullshit when they say it matter of fact...I've been believing that for years! The paintings were so real, three-dimensional and brightly colored. They told stories from the Bible in such vivid detail.
Most of all, what I found incredible was St. Peter's Basilica. It took Centuries to
complete and was immense...far larger than I ever expected. The carvings and sculptures were so impressive. I was overwhelmed with the dedication people must have had to commit their lives to building and completing it. Ever inch of the Basilica is decorated to tell a story of a pope or from the Bible. Every sculpture is exceptional...and there were thousands!The day before we left, John and I spent a relaxing day walking together throughout
Rome. I enjoyed the time together, visiting Palantine, walking past the Basilicas, and touring the shopping district. We enjoyed a great dinner off the street in one of the many open air restaurants. All in all, Rome was incredible. I must admit I was a bit shocked by all the grafitti and the prostitutes (I mean the Catholic church is right there!), but even with that, there's something magical about Rome. Maybe it's the food or the coffee or the majestic sites...but Rome is a place I definitely want to go back to.
International travel is quite an eye opener. The US dollar is pretty much worthless in Europe...in Italy, the Euro is about 1.5 times the dollar and in England the pound was 2.2 the dollar (a train ride from the airport to the city was 59 pounds round trip for John and I...equivalent to about $130.00 US). A taxi cost about 45 pounds or $90.00US....it's kind of crazy how little value our dollar has. That absolutely had me thinking about the state of our economy and how urgent it is for people to become self-reliant and prosperous.
I love being an entrepreneur...the freedom that comes from knowing I am in control of my life, my time and my income is very freeing. Especially since I market in the UK and make twice the profit in US dollars!
Monday, March 24, 2008
SikkU.com: Revolutionizing Real Estate
A good friend of mine, Ray Desmond, shared with me a project he's been working on for the last couple of years. He's already very successful as co-owner of Nova Financial, the largest lender in Southern Arizona...licensed in 14 states and Mexico!
So, I knew that any project he's been developing would be cutting edge. I must say I was wow'ed when he shared the details with me.
Ray and his team at GainClients developed SikkU.com, a revolutionary approach to real estate
listing and service providing. With SikkU.com, any homeowner can list their properties FOR FREE, as well as locate an experience realtor or mortgage broker in their area.
Realtors, for a nominal membership, can list an unlimited amount of properties and create an Expert Profile.
So, what makes this different? SikkU.com has obtained syndication agreements with 8 leading search engines...that puts every listing and Expert Profile in front of more than 75,000,000 potential buyers and sellers!
It's incredible! Let's face it...almost everyone seaches the web for anything they are going to buy. They even look for their mates online (I should know that's how I met my husband John!). So, now, when someone is looking for real estate, they can put up you, the homeowners, unique website or any member realtors listings.
It's Real Estate for the 21st Century and absolutely brilliant.
I'm excited to have been asked to participate in the project and provide some direction on marketing and web campaigning.
Be sure to check it out: www.SikkU.com. If you're selling your house, you can create your own listing in a few clicks of a mouse. If you are listed with a realtor...make sure you let them know about SikkU.com...it's the competitive edge!
See the Latest Press Release: Click Here
So, I knew that any project he's been developing would be cutting edge. I must say I was wow'ed when he shared the details with me.
Ray and his team at GainClients developed SikkU.com, a revolutionary approach to real estate
listing and service providing. With SikkU.com, any homeowner can list their properties FOR FREE, as well as locate an experience realtor or mortgage broker in their area. Realtors, for a nominal membership, can list an unlimited amount of properties and create an Expert Profile.
So, what makes this different? SikkU.com has obtained syndication agreements with 8 leading search engines...that puts every listing and Expert Profile in front of more than 75,000,000 potential buyers and sellers!
It's incredible! Let's face it...almost everyone seaches the web for anything they are going to buy. They even look for their mates online (I should know that's how I met my husband John!). So, now, when someone is looking for real estate, they can put up you, the homeowners, unique website or any member realtors listings.
It's Real Estate for the 21st Century and absolutely brilliant.
I'm excited to have been asked to participate in the project and provide some direction on marketing and web campaigning.
Be sure to check it out: www.SikkU.com. If you're selling your house, you can create your own listing in a few clicks of a mouse. If you are listed with a realtor...make sure you let them know about SikkU.com...it's the competitive edge!
See the Latest Press Release: Click Here
Monday, March 10, 2008
This is What It's All About!
Pushing the limits, setting the pace, living life on the edge!
Anyone who knows me, knows I am passionate about few things:
Snowboarding is about total freedom...carving fresh powder, exploring new ground, setting fresh tracks.
Anyone who knows me, knows I am passionate about few things:
- My husband
- Dogs (especially Lucy,Pharaoh,and Munchkie)
- Making money
- Being an example of success so others can realize there is possibility in their life
- Making a difference in the world
Snowboarding is about total freedom...carving fresh powder, exploring new ground, setting fresh tracks.
Monday, February 25, 2008
From Broke to Millionaire: A Simple How-To
I am often asked, "How can I get rich?". The answer is simple, to become wealthy, you have to think like a wealthy person.
For example: Everyday I talk with people who have dreams of becoming wealthy. Many of them are struggling with their current financial situation. I can easily predict the ones who will find a way to become wealthy vs. the ones who will continue to struggle and most likely end up broke or destitute.
The formula is simple.
The people who use being broke as a REASON to get started in business will find a way to financial freedom. They are self-determined, motivated and they will not allow thier current circumstances to hold them back. They are solution focused.
The people who say, "Oh, I'm too broke. I don't have the money." will remain financially defeated. They will use their situation as an excuse and will most likely never break free.
I think often of Donald Trump who at one point found himself $9Billion in the hole...personally liable for every penny. He made some poor decisions and bad business choices. He once pointed at a street bum and stated "that guy is $9Billion richer than me!". Rather than wallow in his situation, he chose to buy even more properties, finding the cash, convincing lendors to lend to him even though it was an absurd idea. His confidence, persistence and determination won them over. Because he believed in himself, had the guts to ask and was confident in what he could achieve, they believed in him.
Wealthy people think differently. They think in terms of "How can I" rather than "Why can't I". Many wealthy people started with nothing: Sam Walton - founder of WalMart, Bill Gates: Founder of Microsoft, The guy who started "Chik-fil-A", Oprah...etc. All had lots going against them, but the reason they found success when countless others gave us is they refused to accept less than their dreams.
I remember when John and I became entrepreneurs. We were behind on all our bills, both had paycuts and had over $50K in credit card debt not to mention our mortgage and car loans. When it came to finding $2000.00 for a business, we easily could have said, "we can't...don't have the money.". However, what would have changed? It's not like doing the same thing was going to miraculously produce more money for us or one day the money fairy was going to show up at our door and say, "Here pumpkin...I'm granting you money to start a business". Nope...we had to beg and borrow just like most entrepreneurs. But, we were willing to do it...we knew there had to be a way and we would find it. We were even going to sell all our furniture. It didn't matter if we lived in an empty house because we knew it would be a great investment in our future and we'd just buy new furniture (which we did!).
So the simple formula for going from Broke to Millionaire...think as though you are already the millionaire. Would a millionaire ever say "oh...I can't". NO!!! They say, "I'll find a way". That's the formula, simple and sweet.
For example: Everyday I talk with people who have dreams of becoming wealthy. Many of them are struggling with their current financial situation. I can easily predict the ones who will find a way to become wealthy vs. the ones who will continue to struggle and most likely end up broke or destitute.
The formula is simple.
The people who use being broke as a REASON to get started in business will find a way to financial freedom. They are self-determined, motivated and they will not allow thier current circumstances to hold them back. They are solution focused.
The people who say, "Oh, I'm too broke. I don't have the money." will remain financially defeated. They will use their situation as an excuse and will most likely never break free.
I think often of Donald Trump who at one point found himself $9Billion in the hole...personally liable for every penny. He made some poor decisions and bad business choices. He once pointed at a street bum and stated "that guy is $9Billion richer than me!". Rather than wallow in his situation, he chose to buy even more properties, finding the cash, convincing lendors to lend to him even though it was an absurd idea. His confidence, persistence and determination won them over. Because he believed in himself, had the guts to ask and was confident in what he could achieve, they believed in him.
Wealthy people think differently. They think in terms of "How can I" rather than "Why can't I". Many wealthy people started with nothing: Sam Walton - founder of WalMart, Bill Gates: Founder of Microsoft, The guy who started "Chik-fil-A", Oprah...etc. All had lots going against them, but the reason they found success when countless others gave us is they refused to accept less than their dreams.
I remember when John and I became entrepreneurs. We were behind on all our bills, both had paycuts and had over $50K in credit card debt not to mention our mortgage and car loans. When it came to finding $2000.00 for a business, we easily could have said, "we can't...don't have the money.". However, what would have changed? It's not like doing the same thing was going to miraculously produce more money for us or one day the money fairy was going to show up at our door and say, "Here pumpkin...I'm granting you money to start a business". Nope...we had to beg and borrow just like most entrepreneurs. But, we were willing to do it...we knew there had to be a way and we would find it. We were even going to sell all our furniture. It didn't matter if we lived in an empty house because we knew it would be a great investment in our future and we'd just buy new furniture (which we did!).
So the simple formula for going from Broke to Millionaire...think as though you are already the millionaire. Would a millionaire ever say "oh...I can't". NO!!! They say, "I'll find a way". That's the formula, simple and sweet.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
A Growing Trend
A few weeks ago, I featured a video "Meet Your Meat" on my blog. It exposed the meat-packing industry and was the primary reason I decided to go vegetarian.
This week the US was shocked by allegations of abuse at several meat packing plants. One in particular was shut down and the largest ever recall of beef was issued. It was shocking to hear that most of the meat from the plant goes to school lunch programs and had already been consumed by millions of children. Obviously the USDA is not to be trusted as was once thought.
So, it seems to be a growing trend; vegetarianism. Not because people are tree-huggers or environmental activists as was once perceived. People are cutting out meat simply because of the disgusting manner in which it is processed, the lack of safety, the harm to animals and the environment and because there is absolutely no verifiable evidence that there is any health value to it at all (other than being linked to obesity, heart disease, colitis, ulcers and,let's not forget: mad cow disease). People are waking up to the realities of the meat packing industry. There are tons of famous vegetarians and today baseball slugger Prince Fielder announced his move to a meat-free life. We hear everyday about the effects of oil consumption on the environment but little about the biggest culprit to global warming: cows (see article from the UN).
This week the US was shocked by allegations of abuse at several meat packing plants. One in particular was shut down and the largest ever recall of beef was issued. It was shocking to hear that most of the meat from the plant goes to school lunch programs and had already been consumed by millions of children. Obviously the USDA is not to be trusted as was once thought.
So, it seems to be a growing trend; vegetarianism. Not because people are tree-huggers or environmental activists as was once perceived. People are cutting out meat simply because of the disgusting manner in which it is processed, the lack of safety, the harm to animals and the environment and because there is absolutely no verifiable evidence that there is any health value to it at all (other than being linked to obesity, heart disease, colitis, ulcers and,let's not forget: mad cow disease). People are waking up to the realities of the meat packing industry. There are tons of famous vegetarians and today baseball slugger Prince Fielder announced his move to a meat-free life. We hear everyday about the effects of oil consumption on the environment but little about the biggest culprit to global warming: cows (see article from the UN).
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Freedom of Being an Entrepreneur
The greatest thing about what I do for "a living" is the freedom it brings...
John and I decided last summer that it was time for us to leave Tucson. The city is nice enough, it's just toooooo slow.
Yes, we have an amazing home, great views, awesome weather, but no life. There's just nothing to do beyond hiking and riding your bike or stuffing your face at the local restaurants. After 7 years, it just got "old".
So...where to go? Well, we thought it was going to be Phoenix.
Until we spent some time in Los Angeles. What an incredible city! We are having a blast. We came out here on the 16th, a few days after our trip to Miami (which was a few days after a week in Telluride) and we are still here! It was supposed to be 10 days which we've extended to almost a month.
We brought our dogs out here with us and they are having fun exploring the city too. So, it looks like Los Angeles might be the place for us.
That's the benefit of working from home. Work from anywhere! Live anywhere! Enjoy life to the fullest, without boundaries, deadlines, restrictions, etc.
We even got a few of our friends to come hang out here with us already:)
So, if you are ready to make the leap into a life without limits, give me a call: 520.270.1119.
John and I decided last summer that it was time for us to leave Tucson. The city is nice enough, it's just toooooo slow.
Yes, we have an amazing home, great views, awesome weather, but no life. There's just nothing to do beyond hiking and riding your bike or stuffing your face at the local restaurants. After 7 years, it just got "old".
So...where to go? Well, we thought it was going to be Phoenix.
Until we spent some time in Los Angeles. What an incredible city! We are having a blast. We came out here on the 16th, a few days after our trip to Miami (which was a few days after a week in Telluride) and we are still here! It was supposed to be 10 days which we've extended to almost a month.
We brought our dogs out here with us and they are having fun exploring the city too. So, it looks like Los Angeles might be the place for us.
That's the benefit of working from home. Work from anywhere! Live anywhere! Enjoy life to the fullest, without boundaries, deadlines, restrictions, etc.
We even got a few of our friends to come hang out here with us already:)
So, if you are ready to make the leap into a life without limits, give me a call: 520.270.1119.
Monday, January 14, 2008
A Healthy New Year
A few weeks ago I attending the Unleash the Power Within Seminar with Tony Robbins in Atlanta.
The first day of the event was incredible. Tony Robbins was on stage for 10 hours straight...his energy never waned, he was vibrant, powerful...EXCEPTIONAL. At the end of the night I was pooped. I thought "Whatever Tony is doing to have that level of energy, I'm going to do too". I wanted it.
On the final day of the event, Tony shared with us his nutritional regimen. Now I was a caffeine guzzling Starbucks junky who thrived on chocolate, processed food, carbs, carbs, carbs and meat. The occasional fresh vegetable did make it in, but it was more the rarity.
Tony's plan included a vegetarian diet, filled with fresh vegetables, lots of water and no caffeine. Yep...no caffeine.
He shared with us a video about the meat industry that had me commit on the spot to never eat meat again (and I haven't). The attrocities in the video...the disgusting quality of the meat has even had me read labels to ensure nothing I touch has meat products in it.
I implore you to watch this video...it will make a huge difference in your life, your families and your health. I'll warn you it is graphic.
When I saw the video I was amazed at how duped I've been; believing the USDA had my best interests at heart. Reading Skinny Bitch by Kim Barnouin & Rory Freedman
,a great book that is a little vulger but basically lays out the exact plan Tony Robbins promotes, revealed the attrocities the US government and the USDA commit every day. While Americans assumme these regulatory agencies have their best interests at heart, they don't.
It's important to become well informed so you can make intelligent, educated decisions about what you choose to eat. You may still choose to eat meat, dairy and other harmful foods, but at least you'll be educated about what you are choosing to digest and put in your body.
If you're committed to improving your health, fitness and life in 2008, I highly recommend Skinny Bitch by Kim Barnouin & Rory Freedman(for both women and men) as well as Anthony Robbins Inner Balance. Free Online Health Assessment from Anthony Robbins! Find Out More!
.
The results I personally am seeing from excluding dairy, meat, artificial sweetners and processed wheat has included dropping pounds, skin clarity, more energy, increased focus, increased endurance in snowboarding, less hungry, decrease in digestive ails and more! It's been so great I just had to share this with you.
Have a great year!
The first day of the event was incredible. Tony Robbins was on stage for 10 hours straight...his energy never waned, he was vibrant, powerful...EXCEPTIONAL. At the end of the night I was pooped. I thought "Whatever Tony is doing to have that level of energy, I'm going to do too". I wanted it.
On the final day of the event, Tony shared with us his nutritional regimen. Now I was a caffeine guzzling Starbucks junky who thrived on chocolate, processed food, carbs, carbs, carbs and meat. The occasional fresh vegetable did make it in, but it was more the rarity.
Tony's plan included a vegetarian diet, filled with fresh vegetables, lots of water and no caffeine. Yep...no caffeine.
He shared with us a video about the meat industry that had me commit on the spot to never eat meat again (and I haven't). The attrocities in the video...the disgusting quality of the meat has even had me read labels to ensure nothing I touch has meat products in it.
I implore you to watch this video...it will make a huge difference in your life, your families and your health. I'll warn you it is graphic.
When I saw the video I was amazed at how duped I've been; believing the USDA had my best interests at heart. Reading Skinny Bitch by Kim Barnouin & Rory Freedman
,a great book that is a little vulger but basically lays out the exact plan Tony Robbins promotes, revealed the attrocities the US government and the USDA commit every day. While Americans assumme these regulatory agencies have their best interests at heart, they don't. It's important to become well informed so you can make intelligent, educated decisions about what you choose to eat. You may still choose to eat meat, dairy and other harmful foods, but at least you'll be educated about what you are choosing to digest and put in your body.
If you're committed to improving your health, fitness and life in 2008, I highly recommend Skinny Bitch by Kim Barnouin & Rory Freedman
(for both women and men) as well as Anthony Robbins Inner Balance. Free Online Health Assessment from Anthony Robbins! Find Out More!The results I personally am seeing from excluding dairy, meat, artificial sweetners and processed wheat has included dropping pounds, skin clarity, more energy, increased focus, increased endurance in snowboarding, less hungry, decrease in digestive ails and more! It's been so great I just had to share this with you.
Have a great year!
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Perfect!
Check out my buddy Jett...this will make you smile!
Just another demonstration of Liberty League International paving the way for people to unleash their potential and make the money to live their passions.
Nice Extreme Team Cancun t-shirt in the background Jett!
Just another demonstration of Liberty League International paving the way for people to unleash their potential and make the money to live their passions.
Nice Extreme Team Cancun t-shirt in the background Jett!
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