Author: Bonnie Ross-Parker

Categories
Life

The Heart of a Woman

The heart of a woman is as big as life. She initiates conversations with strangers in the bathroom.

She recommends the perfect place to find the perfect dress to a woman she meets at the beauty salon. She clips coupons to send to her daughter-in-law. She smiles when she would rather scream; cries when she is happy and often says “yes” when she means “no”.

A woman keeps the refrigerator full just in case someone stops by unexpectedly.

A woman fights for what she believes in by supporting community endeavors with both time and money. She listens to friends, helps with homework and gives unconditional loves.

Women cry over their children’s accomplishments, during a romantic movie, while reading sentimental cards at a card shop or when opening a special present. Women openly express happiness when hearing about the birth of a baby, an engagement or a marriage. Women share their emotions from their heart.

Women remain strong even when they think they have no strength left. They comfort loved ones in mourning, visit friends and family who are ill, and offer hugs and kisses to soothe broken hearts. Simply put, women connect!

They write letters, make phone calls, send e-mails and stay in touch. Women care!

Women are present wherever and whenever they are needed. They intuitively know where to offer their love and support.

Women do more than give birth. Where a woman is there exists joy and hope. She brings compassion and companionship. She gives moral support. She acknowledges. She reassures. Women are mothers, daughters, wives, lovers, sisters, aunts, and grandmothers.

They give, they guide, and stay grounded. They are amazing not only for what they accomplish, but for the values they impart. Women earn our respect every day not only because of what they do, but because of who they are.

Let me know about some amazing women in your life…

Categories
Life

Is Having A Servant Mindset a TOP Priority?

Are you tired of individuals making commitments – any commitment – and then not doing what they say they’re going to do? Are you frustrated over the lack of response/appreciation/customer service so prevalent in today’s marketplace? Are people more interested in building their Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn followers and connections then building or strengthening the relationships they already have? It’s troubling to recognize that it’s obvious we have lost human touch, compassion and genuine caring in personal and professional relationships.

Everyone is moving so quickly. Everyone is stretched to accomplish what they can in a day. We move from task to task, from one communication to another often with little time to really appreciate, acknowledge and feel blessed by simply living.

When I think of service and the word ‘serve’ I think of what can be done under any situation that lets someone know that they are important, they have value and are respected. Are we each doing our part to treat people with kindness? Are we sensitive to the needs and situations of the people with whom we interact? Are we so entrenched in our own lives that we fail to support and show compassion to those less fortunate?

The news continually reminds us of violence, hatred and disasters – circumstances of which we have no control. We read and watch and are often drawn in to heart breaking stories and accounts that fill the television screen and provide headlines in the newspaper. And we think how fortunate we are to not be impacted directly.

What we can also be thinking is: “What can I do in my small corner of the world to offset what the media portrays?” The great news is – we ALL can do our part to enhance and improve the heart breaking picture to be a more loving one. Do what you say you’re going to do. Express appreciation to those who help you along the way. Respond to situations with respect and get clarity when something is not to your liking. Create instead of react. Think of words that will be acceptable to someone else – not hurtful and destructive.

Thank the banker who takes care of your deposit. Thank the clerk at the cleaners who arrives very early to take in or tenders your laundry. Appreciate the mechanic who fixes your car and, yes, even the customer service operator who manages to resolve an issue.

I recently endured a two hour delay out of LAX airport which resulted in my arrival home later than I had wanted or anticipated. Ever observe angry customers at a gate? What good comes from poor behavior and lack of self- control when the airline staff has nothing to do with weather delays? I watched the women at the counter. They did everything they could to endure some of the poor behaviors they faced. What are people thinking? Why is decent, human kindness missing when situations are not to our liking?

I know we can do a better job. I know we want to be more loving, more accepting, more tolerant and compassion. All it takes is having a servant mindset. Be of service. Be someone on whom others can rely. We are in the journey of life together. Be a force for good in the world. We certainly need it and need you to shift what we see to what can be.

Welcome to 2018. Commit to having the best year ever by maintaining a Servant Mindset!

Categories
Entrepreneurs Life Professional Development

10 Ways to Empower Your Soul

90312767 - 2018, silhouette of a woman standing in the sun, blue sky

In 1999, a friend gave me a gift – the following booklet on empowering one’s soul. I recently came across it and thought you, too, would appreciate this simple wisdom.. Sometimes, even the basic lessons of life can have the most profound effect. Consider beginning today to enhance and enrich your life and the lives of those you touch. May 2018 reap limitless rewards and well-being.

Ten Ways to Empower Your Soul

One: Simplify! Simplify! Overcome by clutter? Overweight? Mind and senses on overload? Uncomplicate your life by remembering this simple adage: “Less is more.” Drop the unnecessary and nonessential. Avoid gossip, useless clutter, overindulgence. Cultivate cheerfulness, neatness and a positive attitude. Dress simply, eat simply and practice simplicity in thought, speech and action. Simplify, simplify as you seek a higher purpose in life.

TWO: Choose a Direction. Racing from one commitment to another, overscheduling, trying out one self-improvement method after another, can leave you tired, confused and unsure of what to do next. It’s time to decide what’s important. Slow down! Let your mind become clear as you refocus your intentions. Make conscious choices. Always choose the best possible option. Be unwavering as you choose a direction for your spiritual and worldly life and let life’s distractions pass you by.

THREE: Transcend the Ordinary. If your life lacks spontaneity and surprise, your zest for life has probably fizzled. Unleash the power of your imagination! Walk down a different street. Transform frustration by cultivating patience and kindness. Smile at a stranger. Experience the world with a beginner’s mind. Remember that life is a gift and enjoy each moment.

FOUR: See the Light. Do you feel like you’re existing rather than living? On the brink of boredom? Expand your inner and outer vision to look for beauty and delight in yourself and the world. Choose to be cheerful. Practice being positive. Share your energy by reaching out to help others. Respect and love yourself, your companions and your world. Let your inner self shine and radiate light.

FIVE: Meditate. Mind full of scattered thoughts? Feeling disconnected from your self? Meditation is the answer. Give yourself a few minutes each day to sit quietly. Calm the body and mind. Take notice as you become less affected by the turmoil of life. Through meditation you can return again and again to the center of your being. Meditation gives you the best of life. Love your practice. Doesn’t your spiritual life deserve a few minutes every day?

SIX: Be Fearless. When you’re full of anxiety and fear, be bold! Watch your emotions and breathe deeply as you release tension, anxiety and fear and let them float away. Without condemning yourself or others, correct your misstates and move on. Life in the present moment rather than in past of future thoughts. Avoid procrastination – do what needs to be done at the moment it needs to be done. Become fearless and happy.

SEVEN: Wake Up! If you’re walking blindly through life and have tunnel vision, it’s time to wake up! Our habits deplete or enhance vital, creative energy. Start now to cultivate good habits. Practice breath awareness daily. Take a brisk walk to invigorate body and mind. Set aside time for relaxation. Stretch. Laugh with your loved ones. Learn to see every moment as a chance for new and refreshing opportunities.

EIGHT: Eat for Life. We live in an overfed and under-exercised society. A simple, balanced diet keeps us healthy. Choose whole foods. Prepare them with love. Eat slowly. Chew food thoroughly. Take time to taste the food you’re eating. Whenever possible, eat your main meal at noon and a light meal for dinner. Don’t eat between 7 pm and 7 am. Give thanks for your food and your life.

NINE: Keep Good Company. Just as good food makes you healthy, good company makes you cheerful and uplifts your spirit. The greatest blessing on the spiritual path is the company o fellow aspirants. Cultivate the friendship of those you aspire to emulate. Keep good company to become good company.

TEN: Be Flexible. Backaches, headaches and indigestion can be signs of being stressed out and uptight. Don’t sweat little things. Compromise when possible. Exercise your body – consider yoga, dance, hiking, bike riding, swimming. Exercise your mind – read, reflect, expand. Watch your life change.

I’d love to know which of the 10 ways spoke to you. How will you empower your soul in 2018?

Categories
Entrepreneurs Life

End of Year Round Up

I’m sure I’m in great company with all the other December writers asking you to consider doing an ‘annual’ review! What did you set out to accomplish when 2017 was ushered in?  How often did you review your ‘goals’ list as one month followed another?  Did you fall short, meet or exceed your expectations?  Or, just maybe, you didn’t bother because either you simply ‘live life’ as it presents itself or setting goals just isn’t your thing.  In any case, you’ve made it this far, had experiences both favorable and not so pleasurable and you are now facing yet another New Year.

Wherever you are in your personal/professional life, at some point you’re likely to ‘look back’ to consider what did or didn’t work.  Did you carry out your exercise commitment?  Did you finally lose and keep off unwanted weight?  Did you take the class you told yourself you would?  Maybe you really did stay connected with those that are important to you.   Did you learn new skills, strengthen your spiritual beliefs, volunteer or reach out to others in need?

It’s not for anyway to judge or hold you accountable for anything you did or didn’t do. That’s up to you.  As for me, I find that my focus strengthens, my resolve stays consistent and my outcome worthy of my efforts when I do outline future plans based on past results.  Maybe you will consider ‘looking back’ and deciding for yourself what you might do differently in the future based on the year about to spring forth as 2018.  

You and I know, life is a gift.  Regardless of what we do, what happens with or without our consent, life is still a gift. Being grateful and not taking time for granted are reasons enough to make the best of the days you do have.  As you usher in the new year, take some time to consider your good fortune and implement a plan that fits your style, your desires and the outcome you want when the following ‘next’ year rolls around.

I welcome you to comment on one or two choices you will pursue and for which you will hold yourself accountable! It’s an exercise worthy of your time and you are worthy of having the best life possible!
 

Categories
Entrepreneurs Networking

Discover the 80 – 20 Rule!

I know, you think it’s 20% of the people do 80% of the work OR maybe you’ve heard or read it under different descriptions. Well, I’ve decided to give 80-20 a new relationship:  80% is showing up and 20% is following up!

Others often comment they see me everywhere! IF someone sees me everywhere, doesn’t that imply they’re there, too? The truth is, I do participate often at events in my area.  They may be info seminars, after hours, mixers, regular monthly membership meetings or any other networking opportunity that I believe can produce value.  I like to show up.  Connecting with friends, colleagues and creating new relationships are reasons to show up. You never know who you will meet and the difference you can make it someone’s life. You never know who you will meet and the difference that person can make it your life. The reality is, if you don’t show up, you’ll never know!  

Sometimes, just the thought of changing outfits, getting in late day traffic and being sociable is enough to cause me to think twice about showing up.  Would I rather switch into my sweats, engage in a book or watch mindless television after a full day?  Sometimes, simply “YES”.  Well, what usually happens is I force myself to get up, get out and get going.  With few exceptions, it results in my having a great time.  I’m seen – I’m engaged – and I undoubtedly create new contacts.  When I get in the car,  revisit the event, this is the familiar message that fills my head:  ‘This is what you would’ve missed had you NOT shown up!’

Showing up is a critical part of building one’s business.  How can anyone expect to be ‘top of mind’ if you remain invisible? Sure, there’s social media, email and phone. They are, without question, relevant in today’s crowded and competitive marketplace.  However, for me, showing up – creating conversations – being present for possibilities is 80% of the marketing game. What’s the point of showing up if you don’t want to be remembered AND if you don’t follow up with the contacts you meet when something of mutual benefit is possible? One of the most significant strategies you can implement right now is follow up.  

Reward is in the follow up.  Rarely does anything of monetary value happen between chicken wings, artichoke spread on crackers and wine. The social, networking scene for the most part is a crowded event where conversations are loud, business cards are exchanged (After all, you need a real estate agent, a new insurance agent or financial planner right now, correct?) and the way people think business is conducted.  

I approach it differently. Who might I meet – the few treasures I can discover among the crowd –I think I can assist or might be genuinely interested in speaking with me and learning about my organization? I don’t push a business card on anyone and only ask someone for their card if I believe there’s something of value for both of us. I request someone’s card when I intend to follow up!  Notice, I didn’t say, if.

Don’t get me wrong. Although money may not directly result from a developing relationship, there’s a much better chance for it to happen when a conversation continues, a thank you note is sent, an invitation to a future event is offered or a referral is given. Your ability and commitment to consistently follow up builds your reputation and that’s worth its weight in gold. The respect you create, the relationships you cultivate and the professionalism you deliver will ultimately result in business.  

You must show up and follow up if you want to distinguish yourself from your competitors. By doing so, you are strengthening and building your share of business. Don’t believe me. Test it for yourself and let me know.  You have the first quarter of 2018 to prove me right or wrong.

Categories
Life Survivor

Be S.A.F.E.

Another pink month has come and gone.  For many, it is cause to celebrate healing, to share compassion with those still going through the breast cancer journey and for all of us to do what we can to establish a cure.  It’s my 3rd year wearing pink daily and the sisterhood of those who understand what that means is strong and endearing.

I had the honor of sharing a bit of my personal story this month at an amazing Pink Celebration co-created by Vicky Bates (XC Co-Leader/Hiram) and Sue Madison (best buddies). During my ‘spotlight’ I offered the following acronym: S.A.F.E. = Support, Attitude, Faith, Empowerment. I am providing this knowing what I discovered/uncovered can apply to ANY challenge.  Some of you have faced your own challenges this year, so I’m hopeful that a bit of encouragement and insight will be helpful as you each continue your journey.

S – Support is a major pathway toward any healing – being willing to ask for help is a sign of strength and being willing to accept support allows others to love on you.

A – Attitude is a mindset we hear reiterated over and over again.  No matter what the circumstance, having a positive, life affirming attitude does help get through life’s challenges.

F is for Faith.  This is about acknowledging your spiritual leader, believing that no matter what, you are guided during very difficult times.  Trust can give you the hope and perseverance needed to keep going.

And, lastly, E is for Empowerment  This is your platform for strength, resiliency and determination.  We all have the capacity to endure, to rise about what we face and to take life’s challenges head on.

Be SAFE. And, may you be well always and in all ways.  You are loved.

For my no-fee e-book:

www.BonnieRossParker.com/discovery-and-recovery

Thank you to Patty Wells of PatriciaWellsPhotography for the beautiful “Pink Lady” head shot. Patty was gracious enough to photograph all of the survivors at the Pink Ribbon Celebration! 

Categories
Life Networking

Defying My Age

The expression, ‘Do what you love and love what you do’ is the very foundation of what I am all about. For 20+ years I’ve had the joy, privilege and satisfaction of supporting female entrepreneurs and business women. With a background in education, franchise development, publishing, community involvement and as a professional speaker/author, I know firsthand that the wide variety of my personal and professional experiences have and continue to have an impact on women local to Greater Atlanta and nationwide. At 73+, I haven’t even considered slowing down, sitting around or ‘throwing in the towel’! I love the realization that women want to learn from others who have paved the way, who are eager to emulate other’s success and who acknowledge the benefits that come from a mutually satisfying mentor/mentee relationship.

Fourteen years ago, I founded an organization whose mission is to: encourage and facilitate the growth, performance and integrity of professional women by creating opportunities to foster relationships through a creative exchange of information and referrals. Having been very successful in business and knowing that I could translate my success and pay it forward by helping others, I have never looked back. While women my age are most likely retired, living in 55 and over communities, playing golf, cards and socializing with their peers (and I admire them for choosing what is fulfilling for them), I, on the other hand, feel abundant joy every time I learn that another woman is applying my lessons, my experiences and taking the lead toward her success.

My female platform, Xperience Connections, is a licensed program. The women who step up to become leaders are supporting women in their community, applying valuable lessons for both personal and professional growth, bringing business to their doorstep AND are viewed as a catalyst for the success of others. One participant wrote the following about my program:

“What may appear as simply another “networking event” on your calendar is so much more than that when you attend an Xperience Connections (XC) event. Bonnie Ross Parker, the Founder, has created an experience where women come together to inspire and honor one another. I have heard women say countless times and with tremendous gratitude that they felt valued, heard and supported at XC meetings. Within this unique networking model, underlies the Founder’s intent to treasure each woman’s unique contributions and passions – a true culture of honor.” Susan Brown, Impact Coaching

I love being an example of what is possible as the ‘grandmother’ to Xperience Connections participants. I am grateful that I continue to have the desire, the energy and commitment to inspire others to achieve their own greatness. I have no plans to retire as long as I can provide my enthusiasm, my energy and the value of my experiences.

Categories
Networking Professional Development

Everybody’s Networking! Are YOU in the game?

There’s no denying that social media is now a key player in the networking arena.  Regardless of which ‘platform’ you prefer, being able to connect, converse and stay in touch through the internet has and will continue to have a major impact on building relationships and business. That being said, networking is not going away.  In fact, more and more ‘local’ and ‘national’ networking organizations are on the scene stronger than ever before.  Why is that so?  Because, in spite of the ease and availability of online communication, the importance of face to face networking, real time connection and building relationships in one’s local community continues to be valuable.  Perhaps it’s safe to say, both online and offline business building will continue to remain relevant.

As for me, I’m a face to face networking gal.  I like hugs, eye contact, familiar faces and re-connecting with individuals who come and go in my life.  I prefer sitting and sharing, complimenting and engaging in real time.  There’s something special about recognizing someone at an event, introducing someone you know to someone they need to meet or finding out what is happening in the lives of people I see that are where I am.

Networking for both relationship building and business growth cannot be overstated. Sure, one can sit in front of a monitor all day to do both.  However, the value you get from being at an event, listening to a speaker, conversing with individuals being together at a table and possibly brainstorming I believe are some of the most effective ways to share about you and the passion you have behind the products or service you offer.  People are more likely to remember you, refer business to you and want to spend time with you when you show up, listen and help them with the challenges they face whether personally or professionally.

Networking remains the #1 way to achieve what you want and deserve. When you connect effectively, you get effective results.  When you remain steadfast in having a servant attitude, you get results.  When others see that you stand out because you are sincere and generous, you get results.  Never underestimate what you can accomplish when you network.  Never underestimate who you may meet or who will meet you!  There’s power in networking. If you are NOT in the game, you need to be!  All it takes is to: Get Up!  Get Out! Get Going!

Categories
Professional Development

The Golden Key: Personal & Professional Development

More than 2 decades ago I had the never to forget experience of hearing Les Brown live. I was one of thousands in an auditorium and honestly thought he was speaking directly to me! It was the first time I had attended that kind of venue as most of my arena experiences were sports or concert related.

I came home late that afternoon and made a commitment that I would engage in learning. My college degree(s) and franchise training didn’t nearly prepare me for the kind of ‘life changing’ activities that had the potential to increase my confidence and competence. I was hooked. Since that time, I’ve never looked back except with total gratitude that Les had the influence he did to make me a better, more well-rounded and successful person – both personally and professionally.

In ‘those days’ (don’t you love it when our elders refer to ‘back in the days’), one primarily learned from books and seminars. Online classes, videos, blogging, websites, virtual experiences, social media interaction, etc. simply didn’t exist. Today, it’s both empowering & overwhelming the resources that are available off and online. We can engage in so many ways, as often as one chooses, efficiently and affordably.

That being said, the question becomes, where are you on the road to increasing your knowledge, value and contribution(s) to individuals and in the marketplace? Are you increasing your understanding, expanding your skills and making a more significant impact by applying new insights and information?

With 34+ years of practice, face to face networking has become my signature area of expertise. As a starter, if you want to learn and apply a few pointers in the area of networking, I would love to send you my “Learning To Network” tips to Make Every Connection Count. Stay tuned as I continue now and then to share ideas and strategies through my blog.

Categories
Life

Choose Journey over Destination

The following message is taped over my desk: It was given to me by a friend. “If you knew where the treasure is would you enjoy the journey as much, or, would you miss things along the way by focusing on the treasure?” It’s been my experience that regardless of the outcome I anticipate, sometimes the fulfillment comes from implementing a plan rather than actually achieving the goal! Think about a time that you planned a surprise, arranged the details for a vacation, the years you were in college to earn a degree, overcame a job loss or spent weekends looking for the perfect home to purchase.

While every journey of value has its challenges, how meaningful would reaching the destination be if there were no stories or excitement related to the experience? A significant part of getting what you want is in the road taken to achieve it.

While intellectually this makes sense, if you are like me, I get impatient. When will my plans come together? How much longer must I wait to achieve the rewards I desire? Why is it that the closer I get to something I want, a challenge shows up creating a set back? Are road blocks treasures in disguise? Do we willingly learn life’s lessons or are the lessons we learn the result of our having to alter our course to reach our destination?

The reality is that there is no end to one’s journey. It simply continues day to day, as one experience follows another. The journey embraces the people who impact us, circumstances and changes we can’t control, the choices and decisions we make and the effect of those actions over time.

The road is comprised of trial and error, risks and opportunities, pleasure and disappointment. Through it all, we learn and grow as we move closer to our destination. I encourage you to be patient with yourself and the universe. Take time to experience your journey and enjoy the treasures along the way.