ENTREPRENEURS USE LOGIC & MAGIC

Each morning I have a ritual of caring for me . . take my vitamins, recite a gratitude prayer from the Four Agreements, go to the gym and work out with my trainer or without, come home feed the cats, grab a bite to eat, mediate and read a few inspiring words to support my day.

Below is Monday's reading from Science of Mind and as I read I thought of us . . Entrepreneurs

The mind can calculate, but the spirit yearns,

and the heart knows what the heart knows.

Stephen King

Since we cannot contract the Absolute,

we shall have to expand the relative.

The Science of Mind, page 405

Logic and magic: life is equal parts of either. Their order is reversible.

Sometimes, we cobble together some scheme using our logical

and logistical faculties, later to realize, when our clever thinking will

take us no further, “This is going to take a miracle.” Other times,

we’re thunderstruck by a knowing in the heart, and then have to

start framing out all the practical details. We do not have two separate

mental compartments for logic and magic; they’re more like

two programs in the same computer—one that analyzes data, and

the other that converts that data into sounds, colors, and sensations

to dazzle the senses. We would not be a whole self without both.

Proably, we have a bias toward one way of operating or the

other, so our learning comes in the form of trusting that both our

logical and magical worldviews will justify themselves. The heart

does what it does, and it may take a while for the head to catch up.

The head sets a direction, and it may then take a while for the heart

to buy into it. When they operate smoothly in tandem, we hunker

down, do the math, and then reach into seemingly empty space to

draw in some quality or ingredient that completes the picture. To

balance these energies in our lives, we need only trust that we are

already doing so. SOM June 11, 2012

We have our dreams and desires which can be magical and then, there is logic as well . .

It just so happens at this time Chase bank and Living Social are sponsoring a grant pool of $3 million dollars to be shared among 12 small businesses that are chosen by a panel. The twelve will each receive $250k to grow and expand their business.  An amazing opportunity, isn't it? Any business may complete and submit the application then find 250 people to vote for their business.  It is a gateway to make sure those who are serious about the opportunity to earn their chance.

I applied for the gym, SNAP Fitness in Edmonds, WA last Sunday, June 10th and I have been vying for votes, via FaceBook, Twitter, asking family, friends, members of the gym and business colleagues for votes.  This is an experience of dedication and commitment, supporting other entrepreneurs by sharing votes with each other, creating conversations of support and camaraderie. People having faith, voting before they receive a vote, others saying, I will vote for you only if you vote for me.  I just vote away and give so everyone has a chance to receive a shot of 250 votes. Know the 250 votes, only give eligibility, there is no guarantee. this is where the magic will come in for the fortunate 12. Yet look at the community this $3 million grant has created.  Entrepreneurs, very open and loving to support each other with an opportunity that can feel magical.

Entrepreneurs naturally hold the space of magic, listening to our intuition, listening to a sense or feeling inside that says how can I not do this and then logic what do I need to do.

The 12 entrepreneurs who receive the grant will be elated, excited and will need to logically plan out how to best utilize the money for their business if they have not done so already.  There was a question in the application that asked, "What will you do with the money."

As your Chief Heart Officer, I encourage every entrepreneur to commit to creating a solid organized financial foundation, to track the investment and how it is utilized. 

Note: a 1099 will be issued to the grant winners by Chase bank for the $250k, and income tax will be paid on the net profits for that year.  Best of luck to every business owner and entrepreneur. Make sure you are prepared with an action plan and strategy of how you will use the money.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

PS - Please vote for SNAP Fitness in Edmonds, WA at Mission Small Business and all other businesses that you would like to support with votes.

BOW TO REVENUE PROJECTIONS

Happy Friday !!  It's been an exciting week . . .

I received a phone call the other night from a client I have been working with since December.  She was so excited . . first she thanked me for asking her the question "when are you implementing?" then she continued to share she signed a new contract with a former client at her new pricing structure.

I am THRILLED for her, to see her achieve her DREAMS.. . and as I shared with her.  . we did the work to create the model, (the motivator), she set the intention of what she wanted, then lead the direction and the path she wanted to go.  The end result, she is tripling her income in 2012.  This is no small feat.  This is HUGE, close to 7 figures HUGE.

How cool is that???

What did we do you ask?  We created revenue projections for 2012. 

First step - we determined her products, prices and units.  Each product had its own separate line on the model, with price and then units by month. In this case the units were hours.  She is a service provider and there are so many hours in a day, so you calculate the number of hours you are willing to work each day, multiply it out by the number of days you work in a week and then how many weeks in a month.  Make sure to adjust for the weeks and months you take off for conferences, vacation and holidays. Yes, you can plan your time off and see the impact right there. No guessing or waiting.  Make sense?

Now it's not only to calculate the numbers, this is used to create a conversation around, how much do I want to spend in a day working with clients, what am I charging, do I want to explore with charging a higher rate?  Do I want to make more money, hmmmm, what will that take? What would that look like?  What is needed so I feel good and confident?

Once you have inserted the criteria, next step is to implement the services, sell the new products and compare actual numbers to projections to confirm you are on target, going way beyond target, or missing the mark totally.

It's about seeing where you have been (past), where you are now (current), and projecting out where you want to go (future).  Revenue projections is one tool for creating a solid, organized financial foundation for your business.

And you know what, this is what I do and I want you to as well. I passionately support YOU the CEO's, entrepreneurs and business owners with achieving your DREAMS through numbers, in a bottom line kind of way, (pun intended) this is for the success of your business and for the success of cash flow.

Get on board with playing, exploring and having fun with creating revenue projections for the dream you hold for your business.  I have the tools for you already mapped out and the 28 years of experience supporting CEO's of privately held companies achieve their PASSIONATE dreams.

Reach out, connect and say Debbie I want to create my revenue projections with you to see my dreams come true. You may reach me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

Have a great weekend and I look forward to connecting with you next week.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

CFO 411 - WA Dept of Revenue Audit - Are You Prepared for an Audit?

Last weekend I began preparing for an audit that was scheduled for Tuesday with the WA State Dept of Revenue.  This was for the gym business my son owns, also my business partner.  I was told by John Hamilton, the auditor the business was randomly chosen for this audit.  There are times that businesses are manually chosen.  In this case we were just one of the computer sample test businesses chosen.

I was told the audit is to make sure we paid WA State use tax on all assets purchased for use in the business as well as confirm we are paying the correct tax on memberships, products, and services, such as personal training, tanning, etc.

The audit began with the first month of business which was February 2008 through the first quarter 2012.

I was ready.  I audited all the monthly reports before the auditor did to make sure we were taking the promo referral fees as a deduction for excise and sales tax, water sales deducted from retail sales and sales tax was being paid correctly. 

In addition Iwas informed he would review all the purchase of assets of the business to make sure use tax was paid.  I trusted we handled it properly.

The findings . . . we did not pay sales tax on four asset items.  The asset purchases were on items made outside the state of WA.  We will receive an assessment around the end of June and the gym will owe approximately $2k in use tax from 2008 from assets purchased.  All other sales tax testing was in good order.

This was a good experience, I learned a lot and the audit went smoothly.  I had all the receipts for the asset purchases that showed what we did pay sales tax on and what we did not. I presented them to John, he checked it off his list, or wrote a comment "use tax owed".

The lesson  . .

1). Create a solid organized financial foundation so when you receive a letter from the state or IRS you will be prepared immediately for the audit and you will be able to show your receipts.

2.) Make sure to have all of your asset receipts on file, titled and organized by year.  Electronically or paper.  This will provide the support you need when they ask for the receipts.

3.) Organize all of your invoice and sales receipts by month, by year.

4.) Keep all Dept of Revenue reports and payments by year in a folder.

5.) Audit your records or have your bookkeeper audit your records and review them quarterly.  Less surprises along the way.

6.) Do not panic . . the auditor is there to perform their job, they are just like you and I .. human and need to get the work done.  In my case the audit was quite pleasant and I asked questions and learned a lot.  The audit is based on the rules of the state legislature that was voted in by your representatives.

7.) make sure you have cash stashed in the savings for times when you owe past tax so you do not have to scramble to figure out how you are going to pay the tax bill.

Are you ready for an audit?  Use the above tips to set yourself up for success.

Questions, comments, leave them below or e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

CULTIVATING A FRESH PERSPECTIVE - Managing Business Finances

Recently I was given another copy of the "Seven Spiritual Laws of Success" by Deepak Chopra.

Law #4 is the Law of Least Effort.

I noticed as I was reading the "Law of Least Effort"  I felt a knowing, a settling into a feeling of familiarity that I have experienced the law of least effort many times. then I thought . . . oooohhh. .  the law of least effort certainly does apply to managing business finances . .

This is not so much about "doing it", it is about a place of "being" a deeper underlying message.  So I invite you to STOP for a moment, read and hear what is possible with the "law of least effort:.

Deepak shares - "The Law of Least Effort is based on the fact that natures intelligence functions with effortless ease and abandoned carefreeness.  This is the principle of least action, of no resistance.  This is, therefore, the principle of harmony and love.  When we learn this lesson from nature, we easily fulfill our desires.

If you observe nature at work, you will see that least effort is expended.  Grass doesn't try to grow, it just grows. Fish don't try to swim, they just swim. Flowers don't try to bloom, they bloom.  Birds don't try to fly, they fly. this is their intrinsic nature . . .

And it is human nature to make our dreams manifest into physical form, easily and effortlessly.

Natures intelligence functions effortlessly, frictionlessly, spontaneously. It is non-linear, it is intuitive, holistic and nourishing.  And when you are in harmony with nature, when you are established in the knowledge of true self, you can use of the law of least effort."

Whenever you seek power and control, you waste energy. Did you know that fear, frustration and overwhelm comes from our thoughts of "we do not have control" . . those thoughts take up a lot of energy and are a waste of pure energy.  . 

So today, on this gorgeous Saturday (at least it is in the Pacific NW, Edmonds, WA) spend time in nature and notice how birds just fly . . . effortlessly.  Flowers just bloom effortlessly, and grass is growing effortlessly. . . .

and ask yourself, what would I need to calm my mind and allow the law of least effort to guide me with stepping forward and taking action with making a commitment to self . .dare to dream how to see what you dream for your business through numbers.  YES . . dream what would it be like to see a solid organized financial foundation for your business with effortless ease.

There is something that has stopped you and keeps stopping you from moving forward . . . let it (fear, frustration, overwhelm) all go . . the law of least effort tells you anything is easy.  .

what ever thought you hold in your mind . . know it is true . . when you think it is easy. .  your right .  . when you think it is hard… you are right

The law of least effort is easy when we allow it to be..  .

Managing your business finances is easy . . when you allow it to be . .

I am here to help you, guide you and make it safe for you. .  . I promise.  when you see what is possible for your business through numbers you will ask yourself.  . . WOW. .  I had no idea this was possible.

Schedule a complimentary 30 minute finance call to learn and test out how safe it would be to develop a fresh perspective on how to build a solid financial foundation.

Complimentary 30 Minute- How to Build a Safe Solid Organized Financial Foundation

Enjoy being with nature!

Warmly

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - Revolutionize Your Life

Happy Friday!!  Today's share is full . . . hit me in the heart . . with impact for several reasons.
I shiver when I hear children have been abused and bullied.  Second, how one person can make a difference in a childs life . . actually in any life.
Read, reflect and ponder how YOU are able to revolutionize your life and your business.

Enjoy and grow!

Revolutionize Your Life

There they were two lost little children, arriving at a fork in the road. Coming from a road of confusion two lives with little meaning. How can we function from a heart with no emotion - a lost soul?? Never experiencing the power of expression due to rejection left them unable to adapt in a world that was just too big and powerful. No emotion, no social skills, and no familiarity on how to function in unfamiliar territory. Their stories depict abandonment, abuse, and bullying.

Both children experienced bullying to the extent of death threats and removal from the school system. It was so severe they had to be home schooled for the remainder of this year and arrangements for a totally different school next year. The victims are socially quiet, but have outstanding qualities (good values, intellectual, well-behaved). Is this the reason they are targeted and how does one of this age emotionally and physically adapt to the abuse? Are parents fully aware of what their children are doing? Is your child the victim or the bully do you know?

One of the children also experienced abuse and abandonment from home. Having a parent physically harm you then give you away in the young years of life would leave you with a sense of distrust and result in lack of emotion. You are supposed to be able to speak to the one who should love you the most without verbal or physical altercation. So, whether we are an adult or a child, we all need to light the fire in our hearts.

We took the children in and continually make attempts to change the way they were programmed. Utilizing NLP (Neuro Linguistics Programming), hypnosis, life coaching tools and techniques and incorporating entrepreneurial skills; then striving to reprogram their subconscious minds, we continually progress. But, how do we teach love, hope, and emotions after thirteen years? When they first came there was no hugging, no kissing, and sadly enough no laughter. After one year of teaching the power of the subconscious mind, dreaming/visioneering, goal setting, and actually discovering skill sets we are on the road to recovery. One child is very artistic so I purchased a program on how to become a cartoonist. The child is not only learning how to sketch properly, but I am teaching ways to create income. I discovered MANY talents within the child and by doing so; provide awareness to their potential. I am continually implementing techniques to teach the power of emotion that was missed as a small child.

After many, long months of teaching, I had to go on a business trip. Upon departure I gave both of the children a hug and kiss (as I always do), with the anticipated simulation of what I normally receive, when all of a sudden it was there. An embrace of the heart, a kiss with meaning, and a genuine 'I'll miss you' look.

Whether it's an adult or a child, never give up hope on reconditioning of beliefs, creating emotion, and establishing a life with new meaning new beginnings. It's never too late if you care and when you give without expecting to receive something in return, the rewards are beyond your imagination. The look in someone's eyes and the warmth of their heart when you've made a difference in their life will definitely change yours.

Peggy Caruso

Peggy recently wrote a book, Revolutionize Your Life (Foreword by Bob Proctor), which teaches the power of the subconscious mind, combined with the law of attraction, and incorporated the professional side of life to assist you in discovering your skill sets, affiliate programs, network marketing, and creating multiple sources of income. To get your copy please go to her coaching site to view it: www.lifecoachingandbeyond.com

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - A MENTOR'S PUSH

Today's story to inspire is a reminder that there are times we need a kick in the butt to do "it" (whatever it is) differently.  Certainly it doesn't feel good, yet see the gift in the push.
The push challenges us, feels uncomfortable, and builds courage and confidence. As you read today's very inspiring story ask, Where do you need the push when it comes to your business finances.  What's the act of courage you can take around business finances?  What is needed to build your confidence with creating a solid organized financial foundation.

The stories I share each Friday are to make you think and YES I tie it to finances, as that is what I breathe everyday to hold CEO's and business owners accountable with their finances.

Enjoy Friday's story to inspire.

Push

"How are you feeling?" asked my friendly neurosurgeon Dr. Alex Gol as I lay in my hospital bed in the rehab hospital at 3:30 P.M. after a torturous day in therapy. I could not yet utter a single word after sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) at the age of 19. So I nodded as if to say, "OK." Dr. Gol then calmly replied, "That's nice," and quickly left the room with a smile.

As he was leaving I thought to myself, "Dr. Gol...so nice...so calm...so peaceful." I tried to reposition myself in my bed as the door closed behind him in order to get more comfortable, but something was not "right" in the hospital hallway as I heard a great commotion coming from there. (True, I could not yet speak; however, nothing was wrong with my hearing and there was plenty of screaming coming from the hall.) I wondered, "What was the problem?"

I soon found out the cause of the chaos: it was sweet, serene and calm Dr. Gol who was causing it.

As soon as he left my room he erupted: "WHO'S THE NURSE TAKING CARE OF MIKE? WHAT'S HE DOING IN BED SO EARLY? HE'S A 19 YEAR OLD VICTIM OF TBI, NOT A 95 YEAR OLD STROKE VICTIM! GET HIM OUT OF THAT BED, AND I DON'T WANT HIM BACK IN BED UNTIL HE GOES TO SLEEP!"

The nurses had never seen Dr. Gol act like that. In fact, they had never heard him raise his voice. They quickly got me out of bed and put me in my wheelchair until 9 P.M.

I was miserable. I wanted to get back into my comfortable bed - well, it was not so comfortable but it was much less uncomfortable than my wheelchair or any kind of chair, for that matter.

As I said, after therapy was over at 3 P.M. I wanted to get straight back in bed; however, throughout the following weeks and months the nurses did not want to face "the wrath of Dr. Gol." Therefore, after therapy I remained in my wheelchair in my room until I went to sleep. Being in the wheelchair for so long was agonizing!

I hated Dr. Gol after that eventful day when he asked me that seemingly simple question while I was trying to relax in bed. However, years later I loved him as I realized Dr. Gol was only doing what was in my best interest.

When I returned to college after being out for so long, my professors, after learning what had happened to me and realizing that I could no longer read as quickly as before I was hurt, were more than happy to say, "Mike, it's ok. Just read what you can and we'll test you on that material." However, one professor did not say that. Dr. Sheldon Ekland-Olson, a sociology professor, said, "Mike, I understand you have difficulty reading. I've had many students with many visual problems. For those students, I refer them to "Recording for the Blind." They have access to many textbooks on cassettes. Here's the phone number..."

I "hated" that statement as I wanted to take the "easy way out." (My feelings of "hate" were very similar to those I had for Dr. Gol on that eventful afternoon in the hospital.) However, I have since learned that the "easy way" is quite often the "wrong way."

Sometimes everyone needs a "push." Even I, recently, had to be reminded to push myself as I had gotten "lazy" at the gym. However, a "stranger" reminded me to use my right hand. Even though it was difficult, I thanked him for the reminder.

I have learned that the difficult things in life are often the sweet things in life. One cannot experience "beauty" without experiencing "bitterness." Remember, "push" yourself to "get through the thorns of the rose bush, to experience the beautiful flower of the rose."

Every time I think of some difficult thing in life, I close my eyes, see Dr. Gol, and smile.

Michael Segal

As Michael shared, the difficult things in life and business are often the sweet things.

Step up and PUSH yourself and step out of your comfort zone and start taking clear control of your business finances.

As I read an interview with Andy Stanley the author of the book "the Principal of the Path"

"Is there a disconnect between where you intend to be and the path you chose" . . .
and I will add  . . .for your business and finances?

"If you want to end up in a good place, you have to move in the right direction."

Get moving!!! 

Contact me for a complimentary 30 minute finance strategy call to learn how you can have a solid organized financial foundation set up in 90 days and so I can hold you accountable with your business finances. I look forward to hearing from you.

Complimentary 30 Minute CFO Encouragement and Support Call

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

PS . . . over to the upper right corner of the blog sign up to be on the CFO Made Easy e-mail list and receive the "How to Be Your Own CFO Map" on day two.

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - ENCOURAGEMENT AND SUPPORT

Friday's story reminds me of our inner critic on one shoulder and our mentor on the other.  Read, share and inspire and share.  You and I love to have support by our friends, family and colleagues to move through, take that one step forward, YOU CAN DO IT!! support and encouragement.


How may this be used with your business finances . . create the support you need to take steps forward to see your dreams come true through numbers.  Ask for support to hold you accountable to get the weekly receipts for revenue and expenses into QuickBooks.


SURROUND yourself with support, a team you have built and created, a mastermind group, or even CFO Made Easy. 
What may support look like for you?  Honor where you are, without making yourself wrong,  Be with the frustration, fear, overwhelm or whatever feeling you hold around finances.  When we honor and trust we are exactly where we are meant to be, we move through the emotion and see what is possible.

Enjoy Fridays story. 

From the files of Bob Proctor -

Many years ago a young lady who was attending a seminar shared an interesting story with me. Apparently she and two or three of her girlfriends went and tried out for a place in a stage play. She got the starring role while her girlfriends were not even picked for the supporting cast. Opening night she said she was really excited but afterwards became very disappointed when her girlfriends never came out and supported her. She was explaining the situation to an elderly friend of her fathers named Hap. He wrote her a letter and she gave me a copy with her permission to share it with others. Read it carefully and think.

Dear Ann,

Once upon a time there was a fellow by the name of Al Capp who wrote a comic strip called "L'll Abner." Many years ago he had some characters in his strip who lived in a town near Dogpatch. They were the town bums, the n'er do wells, the failures whose whole aim in life was to pass judgment on others. Their criticism and ridicule became so vehement that in time the rest of the people in the town became acutely conscious of it. "The boys down at the stable," as they were called because that's where they spent most of their time, soon set the social standards of the town. Nobody could do anything without their sanction.

Because they lived within the structure of their crummy little world, they would laugh and point their fingers at anyone and everyone who tried to be better than they were. As a result the people feared the ridicule of the boys down at the stable so much that they stopped trying. Soon everybody became bums and the town died.

In every social structure, Ann, whether it be family, town, county or state, there are "The boys down at the stable." They are the jealous ones. They are too scared to try something different. They show their ignorance by laughing at those who do. Learn to recognize them Ann, for what they are. Don't let them hurt you. It takes a certain amount of toughness to succeed. One has to rise above those who would tear you down so that they can laugh and say, "I told you so!"

There are too many of us who love you and want you to make it. I could put myself at the top of the list. You aren't going to fall flat on your face as they would have you. You are going to do a superb job. Remember this show is only a small step in the direction of greater things you will do, many of which are beyond your wildest dreams. All you have to do is want to. One of the things I like about you best is that you always give it hell for try.

The show will be a success because of you and others like you who try. There are only winners in the cast. The losers are gathered down at the stable laughing and hoping for your failure. If we could dig down deep inside them, I'm sure we'd find they want to win also, but are too scared to try, and they attempt to cover up their own failures as human beings by laughing at others. In a sense I'm sorry for them. Their guilt must make them very unhappy people.

Much love,

Hap
 

What did you think of today's story to inspire?  What does encouragement and support look like for you and the heart of finances? What is calling you forth for you to dig deep for that support?  Contact me for a complimentary 30 minute finance strategy call and share with me what encouragement and support looks like for you.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Complimentary 30 Minute CFO Encouragement and Support Call

Happy Easter.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - LEARN, STUDY, EXPLORE AND PRACTICE

Friday's story to inspire share a few insights from Bob Proctor.  I appreciate Bob's philosophy to learn, study, explore and practice life, everyday.  When I received that belief download, the light bulb clicked and I GOT IT!!.  . When we see through the lens of practice and explore we allow ourselves to be with where we are we give ourselves permission to not struggle.

One aspect I would LOVE for you to walk away with today, allow yourself to explore, learn, study and practice EVERYDAY, without making yourself wrong.  Our minds, yours and mine, defined success for us.  We now have the opportunity to redefine success and you do that by exploring, learning, through study and practice.

Today is Finance Friday,(my one day a week I work on my finances) now GET out there, practice organizing and updating your finances.  That first step is all you need.  One step, one moment, one day at a time.

Enjoy Friday's story to inspire!

 Focus on all the Reasons You Can Get What You Want

Ray Stanford entered my life when I was working in the fire hall in Toronto at age 26, exactly 50 years ago. I was earning $4,000 and I owed $6,000 and it never even entered my mind that I could get out of debt. He encouraged me to take an honest look at the results I was getting. He said "Bob, you keep talking about not having a formal education and using it as an excuse for getting poor results." He then said, "Those are only reasons why you're not getting what you want. Set those aside and start to focus on all the reasons you can get what you what." Then he gave me Napoleon Hill's book, Think and Grow Rich.

He said, "Bob, if you will make the commitment to do exactly what this book says and exactly what I suggest, I'll help you change your life." I didn't really believe I could, but I believed he believed I could. And it was his belief in me that inspired me to begin to study. One year later, I was earning $175,000 a year and, from there, I took it to over a million a year. I didn't know what was happening to me, but I was beginning to realize a lot of the things that I had been thinking weren't true. I thought some people were lucky but others weren't. I was to find out that you and I have exactly the same potential.

Study, Study, Study

I then got a hold of Earl Nightingale's condensed narration of the Napoleon Hill book, Think And Grow Rich on a record. I began listening to that record every day. It was listening to Earl's voice and the information he was sharing that caused me to want to go to work with him. I moved my Family from Toronto to Chicago and joined the Nightingale-Conant Corporation. It was only after I got there that I realized I had a double win. I wasn't only going to work with Earl Nightingale - I would also work with Lloyd Conant. Earl and Lloyd became my 2 coaches. I loved working for them and I got an education that you couldn't buy. They literally originated the self help business in recorded fashion that we know today. In time, the Nightingale-Conant Corporation became the largest distributer of self help programs in the world, and I was working there with the people that originated it. Earl Nightingale taught me how to study. He said, "Don't just read the book, study i t. Attempt to understand the idea the author is attempting to communicate in each paragraph. To do that you might need to study that paragraph for a month."

Take the Lid Off Your Mind and Let it Soar

Lloyd Conant taught me to take the lid off my mind and let it soar. He said, "Bob, nothing is big or small, except our thinking makes it so. No one alive knows what we're capable of doing. Go after something big. Even if you miss, it can be exhilarating."

Know You Have a Magnificent Mind

It was there that I was introduced to Val Van De Wall. Val and I became great friends and he shared one idea with me that literally changed my life. It was a diagram of the mind. He explained we think in pictures but no one has ever seen the mind so when we think of it, we become confused. There is no order in the mind. A doctor friend of his came up with the original drawing. I refer to it as the Stick Person and I've shared it with people all over the world. If I were to be coaching you, I'd teach it to you.

Val introduced me to his coach, Dr. Harry Roder. Harry knew more about the mind than anyone I'd ever met. I'd spent countless hours with him and I began to understand exactly how the mind functions. In fact, Dr. John Mike from Florida said I taught him more about the mind in 1 year than he had learned in 4 years of medical school and 5 years of psychiatric training. I found that interesting because I had merely taught him what Dr. Roder had taught me.

These 5 men helped me answer a huge question . how and why did my life change? Without any formal education, without any business experience, in less than 5 years, I built a company that operated in 7 cities and 3 different countries and I really didn't understand how I had done it. They taught me what I had changed and how I had accomplished what I had accomplished. It was this magnificent knowledge that triggered the enormous desire in me to teach this information to as many people as I could. But I had one big problem . I was quiet and shy.

Believe You Can Do What You Believe Others Can Accomplish

I was afraid to stand up and ask a question let alone stand up and teach. It was at that point in the late sixties at the Hyatt Hotel in Chicago that a man named Bill Gove walked out on a stage and literally captivated an audience of 500 people. Merely by sharing information with them, he had that audience in the palm of his hand. I stood there thinking, "If only I could do that, then I could teach what I've learned." But the thought of it scared the daylights out of me.
At that point, I flashed back in my mind to a recording of Earl Nightingale's that I had listened to a thousand times. He said, "Now right here we come to a rather strange fact. We tend to minimize the things we can do, the goals we can accomplish, and for some equally strange reason we think other people can accomplish things that we cannot. I want you to understand that that is not true. You have deep reservoirs of talent and ability within you that you can bring to the surface and achieve all that you desire."

If you had asked me if I'd understood it, I probably would've said, "Of course!" But here I was watching Bill Gove do something I thought I couldn't. It was at that point that I started hearing the recording in my head and I realized if Bill can do it, I can do it. I switched my thinking to, "If I could do that, I could help people all over the world change their life." And it suddenly dawned on me that we are capable of doing anything. I'm not going to just do that, I'm going to get the man on the stage, Bill Gove, to teach me. and he did. Today I'm able to do what he did and get on the stage and share this valuable information. Bill Gove and I remained friends for over 35 years until he passed away a few years ago.
Pass It Along

All of these men are gone but their legacy lives on, through me and all of the other people they helped. That's how my life changed. These people taught me to earn millions of dollars and invest it back into a business that has helped millions of people. These lessons have allowed me to help people who were in financial trouble become prosperous and companies that were struggling grow into viable organizations. Any way a person can be helped, I've seen it happen because the answers are within us. And, because of what these great men taught me, I was able to pass it along.

Bob Proctor

If Friday's story inspired you or not leave questions or comments below. 

If you need support with organizing your business finances or want to explore your DREAMS for your business, I see what is possible for your business through numbers.  Contact me for a 30 minute complimentary CFO Finance strategy call at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

Chief Financial Heart Guidance - SEEKING & PRACTICING

Yesterday I read an article in the March issue of Science of Mind written by Barbara Leger who interviewed Dan Millman.  He wrote the book "The Four Purposes of Life."

I read every day, and each article, daily reading and/or book passage I read I usually receive a hit or an idea that can be applied to life, business and/or finances. 

Dan Millman's interview had a core fundamental value to consider in day to day life.  Here is a portion of what he had to share.

Seeking and Practicing

"Purpose, practice and peace  are like holographic images, entry points into the core issues of our lives.  the topic of practice centers around the ideas that we are each a H.I.T., a human-in-training, and that life is a lifelong practice."

I LOVE the idea that "we" .. i.e. each of us are a human-in-training.  SO TRUE!!  With every area of our lives. How upbeat the acronym  H.I.T. feels . . . the fact is, as a human-in-training the concept allows us to play, explore and be with whatever shows up in our lives.

The Barbara Leger interview continues, "What is the difference between 'seeking and 'practice' as it relates to living a purposeful life?" Millman responds, "the journey may indeed be more important than the destination, but without a destination to aim for, there is no journey - we only can wander." thus we seek.  We form an aim, an idea, and a mission (large or small). But seeking - having a goal, desire, intention, or wish -is only the first step. The mind provides the map; the body must make the journey.  Thinking about doing something is the same as not doing it."

How many times have you thought you made changes, because you mentally realized it must be done, but somehow still didn't do it.  Examples would be, creating a new habit to update business finances, shifting your subconscious around a new perspective, etc.

Millman continues, "In fact being a seeker can become a chronic condition - and the search can, in many cases, only reinforce the dissatisfaction that sent us seeking in the first place.  Practice provides the bridge (or stepping stones) between the map and the journey.  Practice reminds us that we are moving toward something and helps provide purpose.  And since we cannot control the outcomes, but only our efforts, we could say that practice itself is a form of success: moving in the direction of our dreams.  this is why I encourage people to DREAM BIG, but to start small - then to connect the dots.  One step, one moment at a time".

I highlight this in red to share the point of practicing and to encourage you to practice, practice, practice, play and explore with your business finances.  On a daily, weekly and monthly basis.  The act of practice, builds confidence, develops and allows exploration to try something new, and opens the door to ask questions.  All questions are good questions.

So what do you see is available here for you? 

What is next for you around business finances?

Is it to explore what is needed to get started?

Is your business growing so fast that you need to finally embrace the heart of finances, and you need to know what to do to get organized to file taxes?

Or is it to embrace growth, and you want to play to see and reveal what's possible?

I have this gift, to see Entrepreneurs and small business owners DREAMS through numbers.

So, I invite you to schedule a 30 minute complimentary finance strategy call with me to explore and see what your next step may be.  Here is the link to schedule your 30 minute financial strategy call. Complimentary 30 Minute CFO Finance Strategy Call

I look forward to connecting with you.  

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

THE IRS GAVE IN - 1099's AGAIN!!

Just a quick note - about 1099's again. 

I follow a few CPA's to access tax tip information for my business and my clients businesses.  So I thought I would pass on the information I recieved from Warren Taryle of Taryle and Associates.  He produces a newsletter with quick tax tip notices and tax deadlines.  If you would like to receive his tax tips, I have left the web-site link below.

"I just wanted to send you this quick e-mail, fresh off the presses, to let you know that the IRS has decided businesses will not be required to reconcile their gross receipts with merchant card transactions reported on Form 1099-K on their 2012 or future returns.

Steven T. Miller, IRS deputy commissioner for services and enforcement, said in writing to the National Federation of Independent Business that no reconciliation will be required on 2012 or future business tax returns.

We have been telling our clients whose businesses accept credit cards or other forms of electronic payments to separately track cash receipts from merchant card payments beginning this year, but now that requirement has been dropped by the IRS!

Our 2011 tax organizer still has the note on it saying that you need to begin to separately keep track of the revenue from credit cards but per this statement by Steve Miller; you do not need to do so.

Go ahead and do a little dance – it is ok to celebrate even small victories when it comes to the IRS!"  http://www.tacpas.com/

I hope this tip was valuable.  Please leave a comment or a recommendation of who to follow for business tax tips for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer

TUESDAY'S CFO TIP - ORGANZING YOUR FINANCIAL RECORDS

Welcome to today's easy CFO tip, to help you organize your business financial records.

Today's tip is about setting up file folders for your business for 2012.

This past weekend I created 2012 file folders for my businesses financial records and my clients.  I picked up manila folders and I have a label maker and I created labels for:

Checking statements

Savings statements

Credit card statements for

            American Express

            Bank of America

A/P paid

2012 Deposits.

I made it easy by placing my business name at the top and then placed the description below.

For example:

Financial Mapping LLC (Insert your business name here)

2012 Deposits

An additional tip for deposits, photo copy the deposit slip and bank checks received before taking it to the bank.  Tape or staple the bank receipt to the photcopy  confirming the deposit was made, and stick it in the folder.  Anytime you have a question for a spcific customer payment you are able to go to the file folder.

Also any payment received from third party vendors, such as PayPal or a credit card company, print off the receipt and place it in your payment folder.  You will then have all deposits in your account nicely organized.

Make sure to add a tick mark or some type of indicator that you entered the deposit in to QuickBooks.

This was Tuesday CFO tip.  Was this helpful and easy?

Leave a comment, question or suggestion to let me know what easy financial tips you would like to hear about at the bottom of this blog.

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

FRIDAY'S STORY OF INSPIRATION - KEEP PRESSING ON

A few thoughts to share . . I have been working away in the background seeking and searching what to share with all of you that will help you with your business finances.  For me it's not about telling you what to do, I want to lead you as I know you just want direction, support and learn what the next step is for your business finances.

In the 28 years I have worked with many CEO's, entrepreneurs and small business owners, to stay afloat, make sound business decisions, the bottom line is, business finances need to be organized.

With that said, I am struggling, thinking "am I sharing the right message?", do they hear me, what more do business owners want to hear, what does my community need to hear. Struggle, struggle, struggle, struggle. . .  does this sound or feel familiar?? 

And when I woke up this morning I walked thru my morning ritual of vitamins (usually at the gym, didn't go this morning as my body is feeling yesterday's workout with my trainer) feeding the cats, reciting my "Gratitude Prayer" from the Four Agreements By Don Ruiz, read the daily message from the Science of Mind an last read my morning inspiration.  Since it is Friday, I receive a "Friday story" and it is exactly what I needed for me.  If I needed it, I thought possibly a few of you might like to hear it, so I am passing it on to you.  PLUS, I am committed to sharing an inspired story with YOU each Friday, so you have something to look forward to, just as I do.

As you read this, think of where you are right now, and breathe it in, soak it in and hold the space for you, just allow the beingness of right now to be ok.  Happy Friday!

Keep Pressing On

A famous mountain climbing resort in the Swiss Alps caters to businesses that encourage their employees to hike up the mountain trails together. The goal is to build camaraderie and to teach teamwork. Although it is about an eight hour trek to the summit, anyone in reasonably good shape can ascend to the top. In the morning, the hikers gather at the base of the mountain for a pep talk before starting the climb. Usually the group is so excited, they can hardly wait to head up the slopes, have a group picture taken, and celebrate the excitement of the journey they are embarking upon.

They hike for several hours before taking a break. Approximately halfway up the mountain stands a quaint alpine restaurant. About noon, the weary hikers trudge into the restaurant, peel off their hiking gear, and plop down by the fireplace to have a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and eat their lunch. With the mountain as their backdrop, the hikers savor the warm, cozy, picturesque setting.

Interestingly, after they are full and comfortable, fewer than half the hikers choose to continue climbing to the top of the mountain. It isn't because they aren't able; it isn't because the climb suddenly appears too difficult. Their reluctance to continue is simply because they are satisfied with where they are. They've lost their drive to excel, to explore a new horizon, and to experience vistas they'd never previously imagined possible. They have tasted a bit of success, and they think it is good enough.

Many times, we approach life a lot like those full and comfortable hikers sitting in the restaurant enjoying the view. We have a goal to break a bad habit, to lose some weight, or to pay off our credit cards. At first, we're so excited. We're fired up and we go after it! The first leg of the climb up the mountain is powered by enthusiasm for our new goal. But over time, we get lazy and complacent. Maybe we see a little improvement, but then we get comfortable right where we are. This might not be a bad place, but we know it's not where we're supposed to be. Like those hikers sitting in that quaint restaurant, we are still perfectly capable of craning our necks and looking up the mountain. We're not stretching our faith or our potential and we know it. Maybe you own a business, and you've experienced a bit of success. Lately, however, you've been coasting. Or maybe you set out to lose 20 pounds, you lose 10, and feel like all is good and you get complacent. Don 't stop halfway just because it's easy! Instead, remember what it is that you really, really want. Put out the effort and go the whole way. to the top of the mountain.

Step out of your comfort zone today! Keep pursuing and keep believing. It doesn't take any more effort to believe and stay filled with hope and faith than it does to develop a negative and defeated attitude. Get up every day and say, "This is going to be a great day! I believe my dreams are coming to pass. There are great things in store for me and everyone around me." When you have that kind of attitude you are releasing God's goodness. But it doesn't come easily.

People who see their dreams come to pass are people who have resolve and backbone. They are the ones who refuse to settle for the little victories along the way and see themselves at the finish line, instead continuing on, pushing on toward the ultimate goal. No one wants to be mediocre. You are made for so much more. Realize that what your mind focuses on, it can achieve. It is up to you. Pay attention only to those silent whispers within that say "You can do it!"

Linda McLean

Linda McLean is an internationally respected business and life coach. Her company, http://www.mcleaninternational.com/, helps businesses and individuals reach their next level using a customized solution-oriented approach to business and life planning. This story was from her newly released book: Next Level Living: Today's Guide for Abundant Life. Next Level Living