Author Archives | fredsarkari

Could This Really Be Happening? I Sense Progresssion

Today was my 8th class at the Bikram Yoga.

I think, I do say, I just think that today might have been the day.

I finally started feeling a sense of progression.  (In my mind this was the pose I was doing.  In reality you do not want to know.)

The amazing thing is not only physically but also mentally.

That being said, the physical acceleration might just have to do

with my mental progression.

I decided to take my mind to a different level -  before, during, and after the class.  I had one consistent focus no matter how my poses were progressing today.

I told myself,

“I will keep having a genuine internal smile throughout the entire class.”

For those that are missing out on my point – It is a way of saying relax and enjoy the moment.  Stop focusing on others, stop focusing on where you want to end up and how much better you want to be.  Just cherish, enjoy and fall in love with where you are at.

Today, Instead of ‘huffing’ my breathe when I could not finish a pose, I smiled and embraced the joy of the progression. It was amazing, I truly enjoyed the class today more then any other.

I also am starting to learn what my body needs as in nutrition to survive the 90 minutes of exercise in the heat.

Today’s Nutrition:

- 1 large glass of water 2 hours prior class

- Bowl of oatmeal with berries and dried cottage cheese, 2 hours prior

- A spoon of unpasteurized honey and hour prior class

It was great, I was not hungry or dehydrated.

 

3 Lessons for my yogi friends:

1. We too often give up to quickly on the things we want to do in life.  If I used my first few sessions as an indicator of Yoga, I would have quit and missed out on all physical benefits and mental awareness.

2. It is critical to know where you want to end up.  BUT, never at the cost of losing sight of the reason why.  It is the Why that will keep you going when most will give up.

3. Just enjoy where you are at.  We live in this fast paced, results oriented world we have all created for ourselves.  Slow down, and just enjoy the moment.

Thank you to all those that are supporting and guiding me with their experience.

 

The ipad 2 Contest has just started.  Many simple ways to get your name in a ballot.

CLICK HERE FOR Ipad 2 CONTEST

 

 

 

Posted in Blogroll, Health, Sarkari Speaks, Spiritual Awareness21 Comments

The IPad2 Contest Is Officially Underway

I am thrilled to announce that my Ipad2 contest is officially underway. I want everyone to have a chance to win this  awesome piece of technology just released from Apple this year.

Check below for ways you can enter the contest. You will be able to enter  multiple times, so get your entries in everyday, to increase your chances of winning.

Ways to Enter:

  • Like me on FaceBook

How: Click the link above and at the top of my FaceBook FanPage click the “Like” Button

How: Click on the big orange blinking RSS feed button, in the right hand column of my blog, or click the Subscribe link above.

  • Post a comment on one of my Blog Post (you can do this once per day, but only one comment per post will count)

How: Read one my blog post and then make a comment about the post, or just tell me how much you liked the post and your entered in the contest.

  • Follow Me on Twitter and retweet my tweets about the contest with the hashtag #fredsarkari

How: Click the “Follow Me” link above and then click “Follow” on my Twitter page. Then watch for me to Tweet about the contest, then retweet it and include the hashtag #fredsarkari after the message. (see examples under “Twitter” on the right hand side of my blog.

  • Subscribe to my NewsLetter

How: Fill out the form at the top right hand side of my blog. This will not only give you an entry into the contest, but also, give you the opportunity to get my latest book, free and stay informed with my newsletter.

How: Click the LinkedIn link above and then once on my profile page, click to add me to your network.

 

As you can see there are so many ways to enter. I will announce the winner here on my blog on June 30th midday. Keep coming back to the blog everyday to get your entries into the contest.

Good luck to everyone!

 

Posted in Blogroll, Business, Sarkari Speaks72 Comments

I was Wearing My Ipod At Bikram Hot Yoga

So today was my 3rd day at the Bikram Hot Yoga.

Yesterday I was a having a conversation with an individual that has been doing yoga for 10 years.  Wow! I can’t imagine doing this for 10 years, was my first thought.

All of a sudden the thought went through my head, WoW! wonder how I would feel if I was doing this for 10 years?

Rule #1 for taking on new adventures: As much as you want to have a focus of the future accomplishments.  Make sure most of your focus is on the present enjoyments of the journey.

I was actually excited to go to my 3rd class, and actually found myself looking forward to it.

This time I ate a small bowl of granola with almond milk 1 hour prior to class.

About 1 hour into the class, I started getting hungry again.    That is when I started thinking it would be a lot easier to survive the next 30 minutes if I had my ipod. :)

That is when it occurred to me. Fred, change your mindset -

“You are not here to survive the time – you are here to cherish the minutes that you are experiencing.

The good, the bad, and the ugly.”

As soon as I changed my mindset – it felt like an entirely new class.  I felt rejuvenated, excited and mentally focused.

LESSON LEARNED: Change the way you look at things and the things you look at will change.  That also reflects with the people that cross our paths – Change the way we look at people and the people we look at change.

 

If you have not got your free copy of the new book, Courage To Be Naked.  Go on the FANPAGE and all you have to do is press “LIKE”

Posted in Health, Sarkari Speaks, Spiritual Awareness24 Comments

Bikram Yoga Like Golf?

Today I went to my second class of Bikram Hot Yoga.  Wanted to try the 6:15 am class.  I must admit, I kicked and screamed my way out of bed.  Its amazing how many times I had to consciously talk myself into going.

I wonder at times how many things that we want to try and do in life that we talk ourselves out of without even realizing we keep doing it?

I was a little sore and tight from yesterday.  But knowing what to expect from the class it went a little easier.  What did not go easier are the hunger pains.  Due to the early rise of the class, all I ate was an apple.  My stomach actually started making noises in class.

It got me thinking about the progression of yoga.  Golfers always say that in the beginning, golf is a frustrating game.  Until the most amazing thing happens that gets you hooked for life.  Your first beautiful shot, lucky as it may be.

After that all you want is more.  Swimmers say the same about learning how to swim, one day it just clicks.

I have yet to experience that in either golf or swimming, but I will take their word for it.

So I wonder if that is the same for Yoga?

Watching some of these people with their postures and flexibility, it seems like it would take me a lifetime to achieve.

Could the secret be not to focus on the end goal and just enjoy the journey.  In doing so you can be more aware of the daily progression, mental and physical.

8:30 am – Did 90 minutes of hot yoga, showered, ate breakfast and just finished a post.  That alone is something to celebrate.

 

 

If you have not got your free copy of the new book, Courage To Be Naked.  Go on the FANPAGE and all you have to do is press “LIKE”

Posted in Health, Inspirational, Sarkari Speaks, Spiritual Awareness7 Comments

Bikram Hot Yoga Kelowna – My First Session

Wow! Wow! Wow! – And I am not pertaining to the scenery.  Hot Yoga is difficult!  I was so exhausted, dizzy, and for sure starving half way through – But all of it was worth it in the end.  That being said, if I did not have food hiding in my car, I probably would not be typing this post.

 

I went for my first session today to Bikram Yoga Kelowna.  I had done it once or twice a few years ago but I do not recall it being so exhausting, physically and mentally, as it was today.

I think it was exhausting due to my shift in mind-set this time around.  I have committed to going 10 times this month.  For those that have done their 30 day challenge, relax with the thought of thinking only 10 times.

First, it was harder this time around due to my commitment of truly focus on proper form and concentration.  Second, why only 10 times? Purpose of doing this is to see if it helps some of my injuries, so I need to make sure I do not do more harm then good.

How do I feel right after?  As I type this all I can think of is taking a nap.  I could barely get through my shower as all I could think about is food.  Someone told me you can burn an average of 1000 calories in one class.

I do believe there is pleasure in pain – as I am feeling it right at this moment.

This was one pose I did not even come close to achieving, yet.

 

Few suggestions if you want to try it for the first time:

1. I think the session at Bikram Yoga Kelowna was amazing.  If you are in Kelowna, try that class.  The instructor was incredible in guiding a beginner like myself and at the same time supporting the advanced students.

2. You do burn a lot of calories.  As much as they say do not eat too close to the class, make sure you have enough calories to sustain yourself.  It truly becomes a test of the mind when you are dizzy due to starvation.

3. This leads to the 3rd advice.  As much as it might be an ill practice to have a small watch by your corner.  I found myself for the last 30 minutes losing my focus due to not knowing how much longer I was to mentally fight through my tiredness and hunger.

4. The rest are the norms – bring 2 towels, drink water few hours before the session and bring a large bottle of water for the class.

Anyone else just start doing yoga? How do you find it?

Those that are doing it for a while – I am open to any advice and more so support and encouragement.

Thanks for sharing.

 

If you have not got your free copy of the new book, Courage To Be Naked.  Go on the FANPAGE and all you have to do is press “LIKE”

 

Thanks

Posted in Health, Sarkari Speaks, Spiritual Awareness8 Comments

Interview With The Stone Sisters – What it take to be a successfull…

This was a fun interview to do. The Stone Sisters are not only one of the most successful entrepreneurs in their industry but they have also figured out how to live a family balanced life.

In this video we talk about what the Stone Sisters do different in order to be successful in a market when most others are struggling.

We also talk about the importance of a partnership and how in the last 6 years they have never had any conflicts within it.

Please take the time to share what has worked for you and any lessons you can share.

Thanks for sharing

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE COPY OF THE NEW BOOK

Fred Sarkari

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Marketing and Branding, Sales21 Comments

Thank You For Your Order

Hi,

This is to confirm that your purchase of the book, Courage To Be Naked, has been successful.

A receipt has been emailed to you.

Thank you for supporting the Cause and Charity.

If you know anyone else that could take advantage of this FREE offer and would like to support the charity, please forward the website to them.

http://www.FreePresentationBook.com

Thank you and have a great day.

Fred Sarkari

CLICK HERE OR THE BANNER To Join our fanpage

Posted in Sarkari Speaks17 Comments

Great Interview with Professor and World Champion – Sandy Penbroke

One great thing about my career is that I get to talk to a lot of different people. One of those people is Sandy Pembroke. I met Sandy at the gym and he was pretty hard to miss.

Over time, Sandy and I have become friends and he let me sit down with him on camera to talk about his background as a Professional Fighter -- Professor and a Business Owner -- and his secrets to success in all of them

This video is really worth watching, especially because Sandy is such a fun guy to listen to. His history is diverse and powerful. He gave up some lucrative opportunities in order to pursue his dream as a business owner.

He found success as a World Titlist KickBoxer.  Beyond his history as a fighter, Sandy has also spent time as a University professor before turning his focus to business.

The interview is laid back, with plenty of banter between good friends. Our conversation covers a lot of different things, from Sandy’s time in the ring to the way he approaches all things in his life.

Sandy’s storytelling is compelling and personal, and his insights are helpful no matter what your goals are in life. With advice about the value of healthy living and the importance of never giving up, there’s a lot to learn from Sandy.

So, take time to watch it, and be entertained and inspired today.

Do take the time to share your takeaway and more so any insights you can share with other readers that will help them in the pursuit of their dreams.

Thanks for sharing

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE COPY OF THE NEW BOOK

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Health, Sarkari Speaks14 Comments

When Communicating People Only Remember…

People remember feelings. Things that bring happiness, sadness, laughter, and tears: These are the things that stay with people for years to come. Therefore, when designing a presentation, it is important to work on eliciting real emotions from the audience.

These emotions not only connect the presenter to the audience, but create a strong intellectual tie to the content of the presentation. Fortunately, there are many ways to bring about emotion in a presentation. Share a funny story that makes them laugh. Show a heartwarming video that affirms their sense of humanity. Use an illustration that tugs at the heartstrings. Incorporating these emotional elements can not only better engage an audience, but can help them remember the presentation for years to come.

Posted in Sarkari Speaks19 Comments

The Turtle Won The Presentation

Sometimes when talking to a group of people, your only thought is when will it be over.

Public speaking is one of the most common fears. However, this fear should not be something that keeps people from excelling, and even individuals that feel a sense of trepidation when standing in front of a group of people can still be effective presenters.

The first important thing to do is slow down. No matter how much you may want the presentation to be over, it’s important not to rush the moment.

Talking too quickly not only makes it hard to understand what you’re saying, but often confounds your point and leads to a less effective presentation.

Besides, if it seems like you want the presentation to be over, the audience will want it to be over, too.

Take your time, slow down, enjoy yourself and your presentation will be better for it.

Posted in Presentation Skills10 Comments

Even The Most Gifted Speakers Have Grappled With It

It has been documented that the thing people fear most is public speaking. Overall, this fear even eclipses the fear of death for most people, standing out as the top global fear. It affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and genders.

However, just because most people feel an inherent anxiety about getting in front of a group of people, doesn’t mean that they should limit themselves when such opportunities arise.

To the contrary, even some of the most gifted speakers have grappled with the fear of public speaking. With practice and experience, this fear can diminish, but for those who are just starting out, the trick is to find confidence.

You have to believe in yourself in order for anyone else to believe in you as well. For those who have trouble finding the confidence or who are plagued with self doubt, it’s perfectly acceptable to fake it.

Acting like you have confidence and having confidence often appear the same to other people, and putting on the show is usually an effective way to get through a public speaking engagement.

For most people, confidence starts out as an act, but after time, it becomes the real thing. In fact, you may never get over the fear of public speaking, but your audience never has to know that, if you put your best foot forward and give it all you have.

My advice to you, get get up and start – Face your fear dead in its face and conquer your destiny.

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE COPY OF THE NEW BOOK

Posted in Presentation Skills4 Comments

Courage To Be Naked – Meaning Of Courage

Meaning of Courage

While this book is geared toward individuals who wish to improve their public speaking skills, the heart of this book is really much more than that. The Courage To Be Naked not only helps you onstage, but helps you live a fuller and more vibrant life overall. After all, that’s what real courage is: whole-hearted people living their worthiness.

In fact, the word courage itself comes from the Latin word “cor,” which means heart.

People who have real courage are those who are willing to open themselves up and revel their heart – their true self. They are willing to be imperfect and let go of who they think they should be in order to become who they are truly meant to be.

People with real courage are essentially vulnerable, accepting that what makes them vulnerable is actually what makes them beautiful, unique and special.

This type of courage seems like it comes naturally to some people. They are ready to shed their skin and just open themselves up to the world. For others, however, letting go of inhibitions and doubts is much more of a struggle.

For me, I have fought with this my entire life. Being vulnerable and exposed has never been second nature for me, even though I have always known deep within my soul that I wanted to be like that. Therefore, despite my developed inhibitions, I have spent many years surrounding myself with people who do possess such courage.

These individuals are often regarded as odd.  Mainstream culture does not always understand or embrace the powerful quirks that these individuals willingly let shine. It is their desire to be who they are that makes them different.

There is nothing more refreshing than meeting someone that posses true courage within them: Courage to be themselves, no matter what.

I have seen no better example than in my niece and nephew. Children have the gift of honesty, plainly showing their feelings to the world. When they hurt, they tell you. When they love, they show you. My relationship with Natasha and Zal has been an important awakening for me.

By being around these people, I have discovered that courage is not simply something you are born with. It is something you cultivate. It has taken me years to let go of my fears and I have fought with myself countless times as I try to leave my skin by the door.

It’s literally been a street fight, of which I have lost some and won others. Over time, I’ve found my courage.
It is that courage that I want to share with you. It may not be easy, at times it may seem like a lonely road and it probably won’t be comfortable, but ultimately, it’s worth it.

What examples do you have of courage?  I cannot wait to share this book with all of you. So excited.

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Presentation Skills, Sarkari Speaks14 Comments

5 Reasons Why 60% Of Businesses Will Not Make Money In 2011

Now that most have started and finished their New Year Resolutions.  Lets look at 5 critical elements that need to be consistently implemented within your business in order to have a successful 2011.

When a new year comes around, many people around the world take the time to reflect on the past and set goals for the future.  New Year’s Resolution seems to be a common pastime. Get in shape, quit smoking, reduce debt, spend more time with family: the list probably looks pretty familiar.  However, while the list usually looks the same no matter who you talk to, it is estimated that up to 90 percent of these resolutions will fail.

Why is that?  Though the specifics may vary, for most people, it comes down to a lack of planning and knowing what to plan?

The same is true in business.  For many entrepreneurs, yearly planning revolves around growth and success in the New Year.  However, without understanding the pillars of a successful business, such success will likely never occur.

Statistics show that new businesses:

- Only have a 50% chance of surviving five years.

- In any given year, up to 30% of businesses lose money.

- Another 30%  barely break even.

To avoid becoming a failure statistic this year, keep these five tips in mind to help ensure business success in 2011.

1.  Think Like A Marketer. Most people get into business due to a passion for their specific product or service.  While this passion is essential in order to develop a product that consumers will want to buy, it should never be a business owner’s exclusive mindset.  For real success in 2011, start thinking like a marketer.

Put yourself in your clients’ shoes.  What will excite them?  What will get their interest?  What will motivate them to buy?

A marketing mindset doesn’t neglect product quality and business prowess; it merely harnesses those elements and gears all decisions toward meeting the needs of consumers, which will lead to more profits in the coming year.

2.  Be Coachable. Everyone knows that Michael Jordan is one of basketball’s all time greats.  However, for as much inherent talent that Jordan has, he achieved the most in his career because he was coachable.

When Phil Jackson joined the Bulls as their coach in 1989, Jordan made a point to welcome his coach in front of his teammates and say, “I am coachable and ready to learn.”

Jordan could have had a good career no matter what his attitude, but he had a great career because he was coachable.  Top athletes have a coach.  Top actors, musicians, and artists have coaches, too.  So it only makes sense that top entrepreneurs have a coach as well.

No matter how good you are in business, make sure you are always open to learning.

3.  Walking Through The Mind Field: More than seventy percent of business failures could have been avoided if people got proper professional advice.  What is the best thing you can have when crossing a mine field?  Not a map, not a GPS, but someone who has already walked through that exact mine field and succeeded.

In the business mine field, find someone who has had the business success you desire and learn from them. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can do it alone, or 2011 will be a year of disaster.  Actively seek guidance and insight from others in the field.

4.  Get Off Your Ass. In 2006, the movie “The Secret” tried to convince audiences that good intentions made all the difference.  While it is true that good intentions are important, the central theme of that movie has hurt more people than it has helped.  You can have the best intentions in the world, but if you never do anything with those intentions, it’s nothing more than a fancy idea floating in your head.

Stop intending for success and get off your ass and make it happen.

5.  The Power Of Three. Everyone does only three things that account for ninety percent of their total income.  Understanding this fact can help revolutionize your daily functions and will dramatically improve your profits.

Spend time identifying the three things that lead to your income.  Once you know what these three things are, reorganize your priorities so that 85% of your time is devoted to those things and delegate the rest.  With that kind of focus and dedication, you will see viable increases in your profits in 2011.

2011 can be your best year yet.  Take action and let 2011 be your year to shine.

There is great power in group ideas.  Share below what has worked for you in your business.

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE COPY OF THE NEW BOOK

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Marketing and Branding, Sarkari Speaks26 Comments

This Was The Essence Of My Christmas

This year I did something a little different.

I brought the homeless home.

As some of you know, for the last few years I have spend Christmas Eve with the homeless. To me, Christmas has always been a time of giving back. Giving isn’t just about money: it’s about time, effort, and connecting with people.

By spending my Christmas Eves with the homeless, not only do I get the chance to make an often forgotten group of people feel special during this time of year, but I learn more about myself in the process than any other time of the year.

This year I did something a little different.  I brought the homeless home.

On the day of Christmas Eve I met a homeless individual that I had a great conversation with.

How often do we take the time in our busy lives

to have a few kind words with a stranger?

When I asked him if he was willing to help me with what I wanted to do on this special day of giving,  you should have seen the look on his face!  For a man who spent most of his time on the streets, being forgotten, it was obvious that this invitation meant a lot.

We found 3 more of his friends and I drove around, with a trunk full of food, to the spots they told me to as they gave out the food to others on the street.

We at times forget the power of giving, it taps into the core of our humanity.

This gave them the chance to give back to others and feel a part of humanity that they might have lost sight of.

Now came the second part of the night.  All 4 of them got to pick what they wanted for a Christmas Eve dinner.  We picked it all up for them and we headed to my house for a Christmas Eve dinner.

For people who have to scrounge most of the time, I wanted them to experience a night tailored just for them.

Part of the deal was that there would only be two bottles of wine and one six-pack of beer to split amongst us.

With food in tow, we made our way back to my house. As we settled down for dinner, the conversation started a little slow. However, as we warmed our bellies with food, we began talking about our stories and why we were doing the things we were doing, what ever they might be.

We laughed and we cried and we shared our stories with one another.

I know after this special night I get to experience.  It reminds me for the rest of the year that people who are on the streets have no less value than we do.  They are people just like us with families, experiences, a history and a future.

When the night was over, one of them asked why I had bags of clothes by the door. I had set them aside intending to drop them off at Goodwill, but as soon as the question was asked, I realized that there might be a more immediate need. Needless to say, I let them go through the bags and select whatever items they wanted.

The most amazing thing happened in the end of the night.  All 4 of them refused to leave until they cleaned up the kitchen for me.

That is the magic of giving,

it changes the face of humanity right in front of us and within us.


After that, I dropped them off downtown, sure to send all the leftovers with them.

In departing I know I gave them an experience in a small moment in their lives that they will never forget.  More important than that, they gave me one that will stay with me in my heart for ever.

Their departing gift was an envelope for each.  Consisting of $100 worth of small gift certificates in places they can buy coffee and food.  Yes, they can cash that in and buy drugs and booze.  At times we also need to give without judgment.  My gift was to give to them and that is where it ended, not to control their actions and give conditions upon them.

Overall, it was a powerful evening–for me. Their gratitude humbled me. All I had to sacrifice was one day and some cash, and I was able to bring back the essence of Christmas back within all of us.

For those who may wonder about the risk of having homeless strangers in my home. Not something I recommend and it can be dangerous.  :)

What if they stole something?  I encourage you to remember that

the most valuable things we own are between our ears and in our hearts

and those can never be stolen.

There is nothing wrong with wanting good things in life – but always be aware of our attachments towards them.

Well, we all have our limitations – I did lock my office up. :)

The essence of Christmas and the holiday season is about showing love. I hope you and yours had a fantastic holiday no matter where you were or what you were doing.

It would be great if you can take a few minutes and share below your special moments during Christmas.  Times with your family and children.  Things that make you smile.

Posted in Sarkari Speaks, Spiritual Awareness26 Comments

Start Every Morning Like This Girl

A good friend of mine sent me this right now and I had to post it right away, thanks Pauline. -- I actually felt my entire body language and thoughts change instantly.

This little girl is awesome -- Its less then 1 minute long -- you have to watch it.

Would love to here stories of your children and what they do that we can so learn from.

Posted in Inspirational, Sarkari Speaks9 Comments

Jake Olson Losing His Eye Sight: A True Inspiration

This Video made me cry – The internal strength children have is remarkable.

In life, we always seem to be distracted. We’re focused on getting ahead at work or dealing with the day to day stresses.

Such things require our attention, but sometimes, the things that matter most, are the things that keep us human.

I came across this video the other day, and it reminded me about the power of the human spirit.

 

httpV://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZwd2__ahMY

Sometimes the things that seem to limit us are actually the things that empower us and touch everyone around us.

We all have the power and strength to succeed at the things that matter. We just need to stay focused, believe in ourself, rely on others, and remember our own inherent strength.

With this attitude, any obstacle, no matter how big, can be scaled. So, please, watch the video, and let it inspire you like it’s inspired me.

Posted in Inspirational, Sarkari Speaks, Spiritual Awareness15 Comments

Maki Sushi, loyalty, motivational speaker, business, genuine

Life Lesson From The Kids At Maki Sushi In Kelowna

To some, sushi is an acquired taste.

To me, however, it is one of the best foods in the world.

Maki Sushi, loyalty, motivational speaker, business, genuine

The kids pose for a picture at their favorite sushi place, Maki Sushi

Fortunately, my niece and nephew share this passion for sushi. This is why we’ve eaten sushi every day since they arrived. It’s already been a week and a half, and we haven’t failed to include this Japanese delight in our daily diet.

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Every day, without fail, I take Zal and Natasha to Maki Sushi, where we can all enjoy the sushi of our pleasing.

After almost ten days of visiting Maki Sushi, I was beginning to worry that the kids might be getting tired of it. There are other good sushi restaurants in the area, so I offered to take them someplace new.

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Their response was almost frantic, and they both insisted beyond a shadow of a doubt that we had to keep coming back to Maki Sushi. Their passionate plea made me both amused and curious. I asked them what it was about the sushi there that they loved so much.

As usual, their answer blew me away. “The food is great, but you can get great sushi anywhere,” they told me earnestly. “They really care about us here. The serving lady is so genuine and kind to us.”

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Zal and Natasha were right, of course. While the food is great, the service at Maki Sushi is exceptional. The staff have started to recognize us from our daily visits, and always meet us with a friendly smile. The quality service not only complements the great food, but it makes the entire dining experience that much more enjoyable.

Through this small interaction, Zal and Natasha taught me another important lesson in life–and in business.

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So often, we are concerned with the product and the price. We focus our efforts on producing a high quality product at the most competitive price. This is important, of course, but it’s not the only thing that matters. What really makes a difference to customers is how we treat them. When we truly care about others, we will thrive in business and in life.

Imagine how our personal and professional relationships could flourish if we took a little more time just to care.

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Needless to say, Zal, Natasha, and I will be going back to Sushi Maki. The sushi there is excellent, and the service is exceptional. If you haven’t tried it, you should definitely check it out. Maybe we’ll see you there!

Posted in Children/Youth, Inspirational11 Comments

Cyrus Mistry From Google Talks About The Most Critical Business Strategy

This guy is amazing.  I have known Cyrus Mistry for many years.  He is one of the smartest business strategist I have come across.  He has held high positions with Trilogy, Disney and now with Google.

I remember driving in the car with him a while back giving me the opportunity to pick his mind -- all I can say is wow!

In this video he mentions the most important thing any business owner can take away.  The main message is from :18 to :30 sec. on the video

His talk in this video was given to an impressive crowd of 25,000.

(sorry but this particular video takes you back to youtube to watch -- do come back to comment on the post???)

In this part, Cyrus discussed relevancy.  It’s a point we sometimes forget in business.  We can get so focused on what sounds good or what other businesses have done to be successful that sometimes we overlook the obvious.

Every product we make has to be made with the customer in mind.

Everything we do has to take their interests to heart.  We can come up with the coolest ideas and create the best products, but if they don’t meet the needs our customers have, then it’s all essentially worthless.

Keeping a keen eye to the relevancy of all products and services will help keep a company grounded and is more likely to yield visible results in the long run.

So, be sure to check out the video and see what you think!  Share examples of  how your products are made relevant to your customers.

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Marketing and Branding9 Comments

Marketing Tips For Your Business From William Shatner

Love this video -- I remember watching him on Star Trek and just loving the fight scenes.

Many companies got their start in the late 1990s as instant online hits. However, when the dot com bubble burst in the early 2000s, many online companies took a significant hit, some getting wiped out entirely. One important exception is Priceline.

Priceline is an online travel booking site that was established in 1997. The company not only survived the bubble, but continues to flourish, even with stiff competition from rival sites such as Travelocity and Orbitz. In difficult economic times, Priceline has held its own, even ranking at the top of Bloomberg’s Businessweek 50 this year.

To maintain this success, Priceline has not only been competitive with its services, but smart in its advertising. Back in 1997, the start-up company hired William Shatner to be its spokesman, a relationship that has remained profitable for both parties. Over the years, Shatner has served as Priceline’s campy Priceline Negotiator, working on behalf of clients to help ensure the best travel deals possible.

The ads are funny and memorable, while also giving potential customers a good look at what Priceline can do for them.

The success of Priceline ads can be summed up in the following advertising lessons.

1. The right image: Finding the right spokesperson can be challenging, but it can make all the difference. A spokesperson helps define a company, essentially becoming the face that customers associate with a company. Priceline has utilized Shatner so well that he is more commonly associated with Priceline than his iconic role as Captain Kirk. Even if your company can’t afford a William Shatner, you can still structure your advertising to project the right image.

2. If something isn’t broke, don’t fix it. While it is important to keep advertising fresh, companies should not change ad campaigns on a whim. If a marketing tool is working, it is important to stick with it. Sometimes tweaking a campaign can yield better results than starting over. Priceline first hired Shatner in 1997, and has refined its ads with Shatner over the years. Always be reflective in your marketing. When you try something out, be diligent to gauge the response. When something seems to have a positive result, keep using it.

3. People remember laughter. Good marketing is informative and honest, but successful marketing is also memorable. It should appeal to the emotions, and making people laugh is one of the best ways to accomplish that. Therefore, remember to not always take your marketing too seriously. Humor can definitely help sell your product.

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Marketing and Branding17 Comments

Got Milk? Commercials Can Create 90% Awareness For Your Business

In 1993, the California Milk Processor Board wanted to raise awareness of milk’s benefits and boost its overall appeal. The result was a nationwide campaign that has 90 percent awareness across the United States and has been running successfully ever since its inception.

Many marketing companies are studying this campaign, hoping to find ways to mimic it for future success.
How did they do it?

Two words: GOT MILK?


The clever campaign started with commercials that featured individuals with a mouthful of sticky food, missing an opportunity to say something in an important situation. The simple tag line followed: got milk?

These ads not only relied on humor, but also managed to convey a message that resonated with viewers. In fact, the slogan Got Milk has been parodied frequently, showing that the ad has done more than promote milk sales, but has actually become a part of the cultural lexicon.

The marketing campaign obviously knew it had a gold mine, and wisely decided to build on the initial success of the Got Milk commercials. A long series of posters and billboards was launched next, featuring celebrities sporting milk mustaches.

These simple ads took the campaign to the next level, not only perpetuating the original spirit of the Got Milk campaign but creating a lasting image that is recognized around the world.

This quintessential advertising campaign can be summed up in 3 key lessons.

1. Keep it simple. Consumers see thousands--possibly even millions--of ads over the course of a lifetime. If any one ad is going to resonate, it needs to get straight to the point. The power of the Got Milk campaign lies in its ability to communicate its message with two words and a particularly iconic image.

2. Show, don’t tell. A catchy slogan is important, and the question “Got Milk?” certainly helped this campaign take off, but most people are visual learners. This means that creating a lasting image in the consumer’s head is a critical way to achieve marketing success. The Got Milk campaign achieved this feat through the simple use of a milk mustache, which not only made people think about milk in a positive light, but stuck with consumers long after they first saw the ad.

3. Always continue to innovate. The initial Got Milk commercials were wildly successful, but the campaign didn’t stop there. By developing the subsequent milk mustache posters and billboards, the campaign actually managed to further its success, creating a lasting image that continues to make its point over fifteen years after the first Got Milk ad debuted.

Posted in Business, Entrepreneur, Marketing and Branding8 Comments

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