Archive for category Learning is Living!

Fast Track

Jan 19

SOOO…my “office cleaning” was delayed…

My hubby had picked up a flier for a free workshop. We thought it was Wednesday night – but it got moved to Monday evening – because the speaker, Darren Weeks, was asked to be an Olympic Torch carrier (in St. Albert, AB).

Cleaning my home office OR attending a personal development event with my husband – TOUGH DECISION!

On Monday night – John & I attended a free presentation about saving, investing, and making money called Fast Track to Cash Flow. Their website has tons of information. The no hassle presentation was based around Robert Kiyosaki theories – the author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad and more of our favorite books. My sister Rayel and her husband Craig, had attended the same session before and recommended.

We learned lots and it got us thinking outside the box.

I encourage you to invest in yourself – by attending events (free events like this one are really fabulous!) in your area that you can expand your knowledge.

We came home with more reading…remember I encourage, 10 pages a day!

Other books that we love and have benefited from – we’ve listed on my Resources page.

Happy Learning,
Robyn

Tags: Darren Weeks, Fast Track to Cash Flow, investing, making money, Office Cleaning, Olympic Torch, personal growth, Poor Dad, Rich Dad, Robert Kiyosaki, saving

2 Comments

Desk Disaster

Jan 11

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!

Oh wow – after a completely wild and insane week back to reality, I enjoyed a relaxing weekend at home. I tried to do as little as possible! He he…I enjoyed resting and spending time with my husband.

I spent a couple hours working in my home office last night – on a few tasks that had been hanging over my head. Although – I was a bit ticked at myself for not making more effort to clean my office over the weekend. However, if it was supposed to happen – it would have – no regrets.

Then this morning, I walked into my office at the Lethbridge College – where I am finishing up a 7 month contract. The sight was a reminder of just how crazy last week was and how I literally stopped and left to escape the chaos!

Lucky me… I learned a couple moments later that TODAY is “National Clean Off Your Desk Day“. Oh wow – all these new national days I’m learning about (Hope you took in Friday’s – that I talked about HERE). I truly need to acknowledge this annual event and get motivated.

I’m going to let you see a behind my success picture (oh I entertain myself!) - beware it’s scary and proves that I’m far from perfect!!

One of the skills that I’ve been constantly attempting to improve (note how I didn’t say it was a ”weakness” – no such thing – just a skill that isn’t a strengh, I’m just developing) - is exactly this – keeping my work space clutter free and clean.

If you’re a Type A personality – close your eyes – this next picture may make your stomach flip

I will report back tomorrow of how I made out on my Action Step 1: Clean the top of my Lethbridge College desk by the end of the day!

The real challenge will be to attack my Action Step 2: Clean the top of my amazing home office tonight – desk and floor! It’s real scary.

Happy Cleaning – gotta love Monday’s,
Robyn

Tags: cleaning, Clutter, desk, national clean off your desk day, office

3 Comments

10 pages a day

Nov 14

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!

I recently had a friend call and tell me that her business wasn’t moving forward. She didn’t know why, blah blah blah… I was still listening actively – however I had enough “negative” energy within the first statement. I was biting my tongue.

I was thrilled when she gave me permission to talk and asked, “What are you doing different Robyn?”

I asked her one question. “What is the last book you read?”

She hesitated and responded, “…really sat down and read – something in high school.”

The ONLY piece of advice I suggested was to – get to a book store or library and find a new read ASAP. Whether it be inspirational, self-help or business book, anything that is going to move you out of your comfort zone. Put down the Shopaholic and Twilight series (there is a time and place for those awesome books – but that’s aside from a fabulous motivational book).

I knew that my friend needed to fill up her cup and learn.

There are lots of different theories of “how much” reading will make a difference, the best recipe I’ve heard is 10 pages a day.

That’s IT! My personal coach taught me to read / invest in myself 90 minutes a day. I’m a slow reader – but when I suggest 10 pages – that can be done in no time at all!

Read when you wake up laying in bed, taking a bath, eating breakfast, instead of watching TV, over your lunch break, having coffee, waiting on someone while sitting in your car!? Be creative.

Nightstand

(My current reads – Peaks & Valleys, by Spencer Johnson and Flouish! by Meredith Liepelt. Listening to the The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss in my car!)

We make time for ANYTHING that we want to. Don’t tell me you’re too busy. If you are, then you’re telling me you’re too busy to become a more amazing person!

I don’t always make time to read – so I enjoy alternate personal development. I listen to audio books – attend seminars, workshops, conferences – any opportunity to be in the presence of empowering, positive, uplifting people!

Your workplace, local chamber, societies, or community organizations may even have speakers present. Plug into your network – there are many free and cheap opportunities to personally grow!

Remember – 10 pages a day. Try it for 21 days – 3 weeks! Bet it will become a habit – and you’ll do it at least a couple days a week!

Tags: 10 pages a day, audio books, books, Business, Flourish, Meredith Liepelt, motivational, Peaks and Valleys, personal growth, reading, Rich Life Marketing, self help, speakers, Spencer Johnson

4 Comments

The Experience

Nov 9

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!

A few weeks ago – I was sitting in my office at the Lethbridge College on a Friday morning. A coworker emailed and asked if I was going to the presentation. I replied – “what presentation?’

“Oh the one in…(room)…it’s something motivating” I had NO idea about this opportunity. I looked at my clock, it was in 7 minutes! Since I’m flexible and up for a little break – I concluded I could finish a project later.

I went to the theater with completely no knowledge of who was speaking and what about. I walked in and on the desks sat a workbook.

I still hadn’t clued in by the authors name. I looked around and could see the speaker sitting down in the front row, waiting to be introduced.

Then the speaker was introduced – Dr. Joseph Michelli, PhD, author of the book The Starbucks Experience.

Oh WOW – how cool! I read his book while on vacation last December.

Joseph’s speech was fabulous. HOW he gave his presentation resonated with me even more – as I was only 7 days away from launching my own speaking career! I was a sponge – observing how he interacted with the audience, varied his voice, asked questions, presented himself, etc.

Me&StarbucksMan

I was a real dork – the only one at our presentation – that wanted a photo with Dr. Michelli.

(Side note – Is it just me or do I look really gifted in this photo! he he…good shirt I suppose.)

When you least expect it – opportunities present themselves! It’s about the people and experiences in our life that shape us – not the material things! I didn’t have to attend this presentation, change my plan for the morning, however – I am blessed that I got to learn. When you stop learning, you stop living.

I suggest you keep your eyes and ears open to chances to personally grow. You never know what’s going on in your network or community.

One of my personal success principles, is taking advantage of personal growth opportunities.

Tags: Joseph Michelli, Lethbridge College, motivational, PhD, presentation, speaker, The Starbucks Experience

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Be flexible

Oct 20

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!

I had the honor to speak to an intimate group of Agriculture divas in Calgary. The retreat was organized by my dear friend Courtney, a Territory Sales Manager for Bayer CropScience.

I spoke to the group in the Milestone’s restaurant for about an hour before they enjoyed lunch. It was a really unique venue to speak. I stood at the end of a long table, in a corner of the restaurant. I loved the challenge to interact with the delegates with eye contact and fluctuation of my voice, while many potential distractions existed around me.

Milestone's

I want to share a lesson I learned with you. Being a successful presenter, isn’t about having the perfect location to speak. It’s about sharing your message and connecting with your audience. People don’t care where they are – if you are dynamic and passionate about what you have to say – people will listen actively!

I am truly blessed for the opportunity to speak to this dynamic group of women – who are driven and focused. All agriculture experts, with unique backgrounds and demographics.

The story of how I booked this speaking engagement – the FIRST booking I ever confirmed – will move you! I’ll share one day soon. I completely stepped out of my comfort zone. You may be laughing and thinking how is that possible – as I always seem to be “comfortable”. However you’re sadly mistaken – I’m human and have many fears!

After my presentation and a wonderful lunch at Milestone’s (as you may recall – I wrote about the napkins at Miletone’s before!) we were taken to the spa – it was truly bliss. I was treated to a Body Wrap at the Eveline Charles at Southcentre Mall.

EvelineCharles

I was lucky to create new relationships with the delegates. Thanks Courtney for your belief and asking me to speak to your valued clients and partners.

Tags: Bayer CropScience, Calgary, Eveline Charles, Milestones, motivational speaker, Speaking

1 Comment

Launched!

Sep 29

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!, Nothing ventured, nothing gained!

I had an extremely successful first speaking engagement! I was honored to motivate 27 women for just over an hour on Saturday. It took place in a small town in Alberta – where my wonderful friend Deanne coordinates and organized the 10th Annual Breton Women’s Conference. It was the perfect place to start my speaking career – intimate and connecting with women of similar country roots.

speakingcollage

I really enjoyed getting to talk to some of the guests following my presentation – to give them a hug and hear their appreciation and inspirational moments.

I was blessed to have my Mom and gorgeous friend Justine travel up with me to witness my first speaking engagement. My fabulous friend Laura also drove a couple hours to come watch – thanks for recording. My awesome friend Deanne, the organizer, had me shedding tears of happiness before I even started. Thank you ladies for your priceless support.

Deanne, Justine, Me, Laura, my Mom - Ronda

Thanks to all of my phenomenal followers – crossing this goal and starting this new exciting chapter of my life was only possible because of your words of encouragement and belief. I look forward to helping you reach your goals – whenever I can help, refer, and pray – please let me know.

I’d love for you to check out my new Resources page for suggested personal growth material! Have an amazing day.

Live Inspired,
Robyn

Tags: motivational, Speaking, women's conference

11 Comments

Waiting?

Sep 1

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!

Two articles with the same message arrived in my Inbox on the same day! Can the signs be more obvious??

When I read the messages below, I felt they were talking right to me! I’ve been dragging my feet for a couple weeks on a project. I’ve made the excuse I’ll work on it when I have more time – ha ha – busy people get more done. I’ve also justified that I’m waiting until a few blog entries and images are ready – quite impossible to have those available until I know what I want them to look like. Point taken on this lovely evening – slightly sinking after a wild start to a week.

I see the signs! I need to stop waiting until everything is perfect to relaunch Copper West – as I outlined on the Facebook Copper West fan page. I’m so excited to unveil this new website and start helping people showcase their western inspired businesses! I have the ball moving faster to get the remaining details in line.

The two articles that I saw the light while reading, were both part of ezines I subscribe to.

_________________________________

Association of Work at Home, sent out by Carrie Wilkerson, President, AWHW

:: Thought ::

Quit waiting until you are good enough or ‘expert’ enough!

What is Oprah an expert at?

She has positioned herself as a question-asker, the expert-finder!

stoplight Can you do that in your market too?

Find other experts. Find great resources. Be the ‘talent scout.’

Ask questions on behalf of your customers!

Ready – Set – GET GOING!

_________________________________

How long are you waiting?

Did you know that the average person will spend more than two weeks over their lifetime waiting for the traffic light to change?

It’s true. And of course, in that case, there’s not much to be done about it.

But in business, I’ve heard so many people say their waiting… waiting for more money, waiting for customers and clients to come, waiting to get publicity when they are successful.

My question is why? The longer you sit and wait, the more likely opportunity will pass you by.

Shannon Cherry, APR, MA, is the Power Publicist. She helps entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants and other professionals attract more clients and customers by harnessing the power of public relations and marketing. Get your FREE publicity power pack by visiting http://www.beheardsolutions.com.

_________________________________

What are YOU waiting on – to move towards your goals, dreams, hopes, and aspirations?

Tags: Carrie Wilkerson, Procrastinating, Shannon Cherry, Waiting

1 Comment

New Contract

Aug 31

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!, Nothing ventured, nothing gained!

Have you been reading about my references to my new contract and had no idea what I was talking about? I wanted to update you on where in the world I’ve been spending my days.

I’m currently doing an amazing contract at Lethbridge College as the Health Program Coordinator for Allied Health & Wellness. My portfolio consists of about 15 unique sections that cover everything from EMS to Unit Clerk Training, community workshops to First Aid & CPR training, and even supporting the Nursing Refresher program. I work directly with phenomenal instructors and have had an overwhelming amount of support and assistance. I’m on a steep learning curve, but am embracing the opportunity to learn new skills and broaden my network. I am covering the extended leave for a lady, so its a perfect length for me to step outside my comfort zone.

If you keep doing, what you’re doing – you’re going to keep getting the same results. I had got stuck in a rut and was looking for an exciting challenge to add to my resume. I knew that I needed to do something out of the ordinary to move toward more of my life goals and business milestones.

This position has been a fabulous chance for me to develop 2 skills in specific that I’ve been wanting to master (that might be a long shot – improve would be a fabulous start!).

Routine – I’m a very spontaneous person! Surprising, I know I love being able to pick up and do anything – whenever I want. Well that can also be dangerous!! I get sidetracked easily and that affects my time management. To my family and friends surprise – I’m enjoying a routine and have been experiencing much more productive. There is never a dull moment in my day and I’m still fly by the seat of my pants to tackle all of the fun and obstacles that come my way.

Time Management – I get up even more excited to tackle each new day. I now kick off my morning getting all dressed up – which is different than my comfy clothes and even PJ’s I’ve sported in my home office for years. I LOVE wearing my business clothes and fabulous shoes more. I work in power sessions now – so that I can accomplish my personal entrepreneurial goals.

Taking this contract until February, has allowed John and I to realize additional, consistent (so different than being self-employed!) income for a couple months. However – the best reward thus far, has been the personal growth and balance I’ve experienced. I know that God provided me this priceless experience for a reason.

It hasn’t been all head down butt up – I’ve had lots of fun too! I decided that participating in the Lethbridge Whoop-Up Days Parade would be a unique way to gain free publicity for our programs. So I took one morning with my coworker Morgan and drove our EMS training ambulance in the convoy!

RobynLCAmbulance

I’m grateful that I can still build my Arbonne business, move Copper West forward, and have an amazing marriage alongside this contract. Those with a full schedule get more done, I truly believe.

I’m loving life even more. When you love what you do – you never work another day in your life!

As a couple that encourage one another to strive for more, we live by the motto “When you stop learning, you stop living.”

What new skills are YOU learning today?

7 Comments

Singing Out Loud

Jul 26

Posted by Robyn in Learning is Living!, Simple pleasures in life!

Hope you’ve had an amazing weekend!

My marvelous husband’s Star Birthday is tomorrow and I gave him his gift early

(Thank goodness for our Costco rebate check – I could treat him!)

John has been talking about an iPod for a while. He LOVES music (and thinks I should be able to identify the artist and name of song on que – however that is part of the “opposite” skills that brought our relationship together!). My auctioneer hubby also wanted to upload clips from sales he’d done to learn from and improve. Always learning…that’s what life is all about.

ipod

Thanks to my beautiful friends Tam & Nolan – I was surprised with an iPod Shuffle a few weeks ago!

Our friends Johnny and Jen kindly shared their playlists with us while they were here. So John had a HUGE head start to his library of music. He has honestly been so addicted to iTunes for the past 1 1/2 days. I love it – he’s so excited to learn everything. John was busy compiling music for his work trip tomorrow with his new toy. I wanted to spend time with him – so I made myself at home next time surfing the net.

I had no idea John was going to get so many hours of entertainment out of this present! Out of nowhere John informs me he’s going to mow the lawn. When I turned to look at him – he was so cute!!

HappyHubby

I was doing some things inside when I hear this loud voice singing away. I thought it was the computer still playing iTunes but no – it was John! He was outside mowing and just givener!!

Ha ha – I’m laughing WITH! It was amazing to hear my hubby’s voice singing out loud with the music on his new iPod.

SingingMower