What is your Definition of Success if I asked?

Have you ever wondered why some people become very successful and others struggle their entire life trying to achieve that elusive goal for themselves?

Everyone has their own perspective or interpretation about what ‘Success’ really means, and it can be a highly personal idea.

Some would argue that success itself is not the most important thing.  It’s the journey to achieving success is what matters most, the theory being that we grow, learn and become more resilient, stronger and wiser during that time. 

John Maxwell recently defined his idea of success and it resonated with me.  He suggests that success can be attributed to three main points.

1.  Know Your Purpose
  

Knowing our purpose in life eludes many of us. Some people live their entire lives without ever figuring this out – it never really occurs to them to do the inner work to find their passions and pursue what lights them up.

The concept of living a purpose-driven life didn’t occur to me until later on in my adulthood as I was finishing up a decades-long career in social service.  I didn’t grow up thinking that I had valuable gifts to share with others.

Having lived so long without realizing the importance of ‘Knowing Your Purpose,’ I can easily compare it to driving a car without a steering wheel; on a journey, with no chance whatsoever of arriving at any destination.

First recommendation:  Find Your Purpose in Life.

2.  Be a Lifelong Learner 

John Maxwell stresses the importance of continuing on a journey of personal growth – to always be learning new things. 

I can't convey how much this one lesson has made a difference for me.  I recall a period of ten whole years following high school graduation where I didn't crack one single book.

At 28, I decided I wanted a university degree and realized I couldn’t focus on even an entertaining novel without dropping off to sleep. 

The goal of the degree meant so much to me though, that I forced myself to develop a habit of reading books again. 

I carved out regular ‘reading time’ in each day and picked only subjects that fascinated me.  I am so grateful to have taken those measures because today, I enjoy my e-reader – I can customize the size of the print, the font and choose from tones of reading options. Plus…I’m never daunted by the size of a book. 

With so many virtual webinar and training sessions, technology makes it easy for us to be perpetual students, to grow, pursue knowledge and develop to our maximum potential.

3.  Plant Seeds of Growth in Others 

John Maxwell conveys that the final dimension of success involves sharing our knowledge, adding value to the lives of others, encouraging their success, helping people grow and reach their full potential.

Why contain success?

I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity in my career to encourage people to grow and develop their talents and strengths.  

There was nothing more rewarding than uplifting those on my team and I felt privileged to work alongside some amazing people.
 

I believe seeing the potential in others and sharing that belief in their greatness – even when they don’t see it yet – and encouraging them to stretch and grow to their fullest potential is the mark of a masterful team-builder and leader.

Your Next Steps

Considering John Maxwell’s Theory of Success for a Purpose-Driven Life, I’d love to know where on your journey to success you are. 

• How do you feel about being a lifelong Learner? 

• Would you like to inspire others and cultivate the seeds of greatness in others?

I’d love to hear from you.  Let’s have a chat about reaching your potential or building a winning team.

Until next time, stay Bold and Confident. Jacqueline.

IT’S ABOUT A BOY…AND HIS DOG

Allow me to introduce you to my grandson, Tayo, and his beloved pet, Owen.  

What do you think they’re thinking at the very moment this picture was snapped? 

My heart is always warmed when I look at this photo because the unique and extraordinary bond is undeniable between this boy and his furry friend.

As Tayo grew up, I witnessed many precious moments these two shared.  They’d be curled up together in front of the television or sleeping peacefully to keep warm on chilly nights, legs and limbs all tangled up. Daredevil bike rides up and down the nearby lane at breakneck speeds – it was always a toss-up to see who’d win the race home.

Ever-faithful Owen was by Tayo’s side regardless of the time of day or the weather outside.

Owen wasn’t the very first pooch in my grandson’s life. 

Irie was already a part of the family and the Queen of the household when Tayo was born. Giselle fell in love with the Blue Heeler puppy and Irie proved herself to be the very best watchdog she could have ever imagined.

Giselle recalls the time when two-year-old Tayo wandered from his bed one night, dragging his ladybug backpack I’d given him to the living room couch. The heartwarming picture she woke to was unforgettable:  Tayo asleep on the couch, his head resting on the lady bug backpack and Irie tucked in close beside him.

Irie never missed an opportunity for her snuggle time as soon as there was movement on the bed, jumping up to crush everyone’s legs with 80+ pounds of energetic bulk – not so fun for those of us slow risers. 

My visits to Squamish, B.C. was always entertaining with two dogs and a feline friend as pets for the family. Owen slept in Tayo’s room.  Irie slept in Giselle’s.  In the morning when Tayo would slip into the warm bed between his mom and I, and Owen would follow then Irie. They just couldn’t resist despite all attempts to train the dogs to "Stay Off The Bed". 

It made for a very crowded bed when I was visiting. Irie had her own canine interpretation of the "No Bed Rule" and loved to sneak a little blanket cover to keep warm during the cold winter months.  One morning, she managed to wiggle her way under my blankets at the foot of the bed AND by keeping her back feet planted on the floor, she felt she was following the house rules. Too cute to discipline that day.

Both beloved dogs are gone now but the precious memories linger for my grandson and me.  Tayo remembers the days when Irie was his constant companion as a baby and how Owen stuck close to him and followed him everywhere through his childhood. 

To this day, we laugh about how Owen would never lie down in a moving vehicle and how we caught him sleeping sitting up leaning against the car window on the drive to Tofino.  

When Tayo was 8 and I was visiting for the summer, 14-year-old Irie passed on. She had wandered off as dog do when they know it is there time.  After searching all day, she was found but was to weak to walk and one of the neighbours carried her home.  

It was a sad time for all of us.

Owen’s passing was entirely different and impacted Tayo greatly and broke his heart. Owen met an untimely death when he was attacked by possibly a cougar, we actually do not know. He wandered off and his remains were never recovered, only his collar was found leaving no way for Tayo to say goodbye.

I feel that pets can contribute significantly to the growth and development of a child. They provide many learning opportunities whether its caring and nurturing and it is usually their first experience of loss when their pet dies. 

Of course, they bring endless joy, boundless love and precious memories.  Then there is the lesson of attachment, the deep bond of friendship that is uniquely forged between a boy, and his dog. 

Why not consider adding a furry friend to your family? 

How to Make a Killer First Impression and Win Over Any Audience

For years, I attached my identity to my career success and used it to evaluate my own self-worth.  

When the career was on the upswing, I felt self-assured and positive.  The minute the career came to a standstill, or worse, took a downturn, my confidence level plummeted too.

Looking back, I attribute this insecurity to my experience growing up on our farm.  As the eldest girl in a gaggle of seven siblings, I felt as if far greater responsibility was placed on my shoulders than any of my brothers and sisters.  

I remember hitting that awkward teenage phase.  Suddenly, none of my clothing fit properly, my limbs were gangly and I was tripping over my own feet. 

To add insult to injury, I dreaded when my mother would resort to reaching into her own closet for something I could wear on a special occasion because we just didn’t have extra money with such a large family.  Styles that trended twenty years earlier made great fodder for the bullies at school and did nothing to boost my confidence level.

 

I looked ridiculous.  I felt ridiculous.

Finally surviving school and entering the work force, I was determined to win over my colleagues with my indomitable spirit and unrivalled work ethic.  That was something I could bank on.

The resulting pressure to make a good impression drained countless overtime hours from my life, compelled me to dress for success, which had a tendency to break the bank and left me feeling awkward about my social skills. 

When some of my public speaking engagements required that I actually public speak, I must admit…I was terrified. 

I feared making the usual blunders one could make during a speech; forgetting the name of the person who introduced me, stuttering through the delivery, losing my train of thought.  Did I get all of the greens from the salad out of my teeth?  Are my buttons done up properly? 

Endless worry. 

Not to mention the crippling physical symptoms:  dry mouth, knee’s knocking so badly I’d grab the podium to stop shaking or feeling my voice growing hoarse.  I just knew I needed to cough.  

   

So what did I do instead?

Continued speaking, of course…until my voice croaked like a frog and when I finally did reach for a relieving sip of water, choked it down. 

More mortification. 

And then the little voice fires up in the ear:  “WHAT were you thinking???  You are NEVER doing this again!  See, I told you…you couldn’t do it!  You stink!”

And all of the sudden…I’m fourteen again.  Zero self-esteem.  Always worried about what other people are thinking of me. 

Thankfully, with age comes wisdom.

Over the years, I’ve learnt to silence the negative ninny voice talking me out of living my life. 

I’ve also learnt that we only have 7 seconds to make that first impression. And it’s important to make a good one too because we only get one chance at it.

Here are my tips for you to ensure your first impression is a positive one:

1.  Set a Goal to Make a Good Impression 

Before a big event where you’ll be meeting many people or stepping onto a stage to address an audience, give yourself a little pep-talk, preferably in the mirror. 

On your way over, think about the people you’ll be meeting and consider the questions they’ll ask and how you’ll respond.  

• Anticipate and prepare
• Speak out loud so you’ll hear the cadence and flow of your answers 
• Focus your energy 

I know it seems silly, but having an intention to make a good impression is an important first step.  You are being conscious about how you’re coming across.

2.  Consider Appearance and Accessories  

Clothing, jewellery, make-up, your watch, shoes and handbag... your hair style, even. 

Unfortunately, people do judge the book by the cover when it comes to meeting new ones. Plan out your entire outfit ahead of the big event and even ask for a second opinion from a trusted friend who has an eye for style and colour…and who’ll be honest about how you look.  

Be sure your accessories are sending the message you want to convey. 

This rule is timeless:  Classic Fashion.  Not passing fad. 

And this one too:  Conservative jewellery.

Once it’s set, forget.  

Every time you fidget with your hair or your earrings, your nervousness shows.  Think easy, breezy, beautiful.

3.  Body Language Sends A Powerful Message  

Your body language forms a critical part of first impressions.  

How you carry yourself, shake hands, make eye contact, your posture, the angle of your body, the tilt of your head, how you cross your legs, are you smiling, crossing your arms…all of it says something about your confidence level and anyone can read it loud and clear.  

Simply being aware of your body language is an excellent first step.  Watching yourself on video will help too.  

4.  Be Genuinely Interested  

If you’re truly keen on meeting new people, learning about who they are and once you’ve begun to get to know them a little, THEN determine if you have a solution for them…with the intention of helping them, they’ll pick up on your authenticity and naturally gravitate to you. 

5.  Put YOUR Best Face Forward  

Our complexion tells a story.  

It’s tough to feel confident when our face is blotchy or full of blemishes from stress, not enough sleep, lack of hydration or just not giving it the tender loving care it deserves.  

It wasn't until I was in my thirties when I started to take care of my skin.  

I’d jump right back to fourteen with every blemish or new fine line that showed up until I found Rodan & Fields ~ the world leader in quality skin care systems designed to Redefine for fine lines and wrinkles, Unblemish for Adult Acne, Reverse for sun damage and Soothe for Sensitive Skin.

When your skin is radiant, it’s easy to feel radiant.

Contact me today to get started with a skin care regime that is right for you.  facebook.com/RFJacquelineCrawford

Your Unique Purpose and How to Discover it

There comes a time in everyone’s life when you start to question your true purpose on this planet. 

For me, that time has come and has pretty much slapped me right in the face – repeatedly.

My beginnings were humble for sure.  Raised on a farm, I’m grateful for the work ethic taught in the fields alongside my siblings from an early age.  My first paying job was in a restaurant at age fifteen, followed by many positions through my adulthood…all stepping stones leading through a long and varied career in social service management. 

Unbelievably, at the age of sixty-five, I find myself still pondering the prospect of my purpose.

Certainly not ready to retire, and unsure of what direction to take while still healthy and energetic enough to work, I know I’m not alone in the quest to find purpose and meaning. 

What I’ve found through my search for meaningful employment at this stage in life is that we face a challenge:  we’ve experienced a LOT along our path.  Our resumes could easily read ‘Overqualified’ and worse still, possibly even ‘Outdated,’ especially considering how fast technology moves.

All that valuable experience isn’t enough or ‘the right stuff’ to get us seasoned professional silver foxes hired in an increasingly competitive industry. 

Remember that ‘reality’ I mentioned at the beginning…

Here it comes…the dreaded “if only:”  Oh, if I had only paid more attention to the advice of financial planners offered years ago…I certainly would have planned for my future a little differently.

Now the reality of straying from that wise advice is right up close and personal and requires some action on my part.

I have this solution to offer those in the same boat:  Start a Home Based, Online business of your own.

I recently started my own business once again doing something I love to do:  helping others gain confidence through the multi-med therapy anti-aging skin care line developed by Rodan and Fields. 

Here’s the icing on the cake:  I also help people achieve their goals and dreams by creating a business that can provide a secondary income to those of us facing our Golden Years. 

It’s not too late for you either. 

Just think about how awesome freedom would feel – create your own schedule, work from the comfort of your home, or your boat by building your own online business…the ticket to making your Golden Years, Golden. 

Ask me how to get started today.