GROWING THROUGH IT

I am easily inspired each day if it be reading a quote that speaks to my heart, a short story, watching a video or a movie, even through deep conversations with family and friends.  I intuitively seek the positive in every aspect of life or business.

This morning's encounter of inspiring words of encouragement came from "Science of Mind" daily guide, for June 14th, 2013, by Rev. Sally Robbins

The story's undertone resonated for me and empowered encouragement of what is possible.  I live from the land of possibilities in everything I touch, hear or see.

As you read, notice and listen to the underlying message.  May this speak to your heart in what ever you are encountering in your life and or business.

Growing Through It.

"Deep within man dwells those slumbering powers; powers that would astonish him, that he never dreamed of possessing; forces that would revolutionize his life if aroused and put into action" Orison Swett Marden

I would rather see a student of this Science prove its Principle than to have him repet all the words of wisdom that have ever been uttered.  It is far easier to teach the truth than it is to practice It.  ~The Science of Mind, page 423

I lived in Minneapolis in 1993 when there was record flooding along the Mississippi River. Scientists discovered that the plants that normally grow on the bottom of the Mississippi and

reach to just above the water line were significantly taller that year. Due to the flood waters being over six feet above the Mississippi’s normal water line, the plants had to grow at least six feet higher to reach the top of the water to receive the sunlight they needed. There was
something within them that urged them to grow—and grow far taller than theyhad previously grown.

Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed and feel that the waters of life are closing in over our heads. It is in this moment that we have the opportunity to practice our spiritual principles. This is the time when we get to walk our talk. As Morpheus from The Matrix says, “Sooner or later, you’re going to realize that there’s a difference between knowing the path and walking the path.” Instead of spouting hollow platitudes, we courageously walk the spiritual path and learn from it.

There is something within us that is calling us to grow. The challenges in our lives are opening us to greater possibilities. Just as those plants in the Mississippi River needed to grow taller to reach the sunlight, we can grow through whatever comes. (Science of Mind, June 14, 2013 Rev. Sally Robbins)

So I whisper to your heart, what is calling you to grow?

What is your heart yearning?

What challenges are opening you to greater possibilities?

Your heart is talking to you.  Are you listening?  If you don't who will?

If this story or inquiring questions have created a spark of curiosity inside of you e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

 

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

 

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - The Great Challenge of Life

Today's story to inspire is from Jim Rohn who shares a bit of wisdom - YOU count.  You matter. It takes you, no one else but you to choose what you want. 

How does this apply to business, and finances?  read on . .  enjoy!

The Great Challenge of Life

Here's the great challenge of life - You can have more than you've got because you can become more than you are.

I have found that income seldom will exceed your own personal development. Once in a while income takes a lucky jump, but unless you grow out to where it is, it will go back to where you are.

Somebody once said if you took all the money in the world and divided it among everyone equally; it would soon be back in the same pockets. However, you can have more because you can become more. You see, here is how the other side of the coin reads - unless you change how you are, you will always have what you've got.

The marketing plan won't do it. It's a good plan but it won't work without you. You've got to work it. It is the human effort that counts. If you could send a sales manual out to recruit - wouldn't that be lovely? The major thing that makes the difference is what YOU do.

In order to have more, you need to become more. The guy says "If I had a good job I would really pour it on, but I have this lousy job so I just goof off." If that is your philosophy, you are destined to stay there.

Some people say if I had a lot of money I would be really generous, but I don't have much so I'm not generous. See, you've got to change that philosophy or you will never have "the lots of money." Unless YOU change, IT won't change.

Amazingly, however, when we throw out our blame list and start becoming more ourselves - the difference is everything else will begin to change around us.

Jim Rohn
1930-2009, Author and Speaker
www.jimrohn.com 

What spoke to your heart about this story?  What spoke to your head?  What ever challenges you have in life around finances, it will take YOU to step up and choose to want to do it differently.  There is no magic formula, no magic pill, or magic wand it just takes you.

What's stopping you with your finances?  Business or personal?  How do you know what you don't know?  Start asking questions. Start asking for help. It's that simple, it's that easy.

I would love to be your financial coach,  are you ready?

Please share your comments below and share this blogpost with your friends and colleagues.  I am here to support you with moving forward.  d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - Are You Guarding A Concrete Slab?

Happy Friday . . Today's story to inspire is a thinker . . . this can be applied to anything, even business finances and personal finances.  How??  Read and I will share a couple of examples after the story. .

Are You Guarding A Concrete Slab?

There was an army barracks that had on its duty roster 4 soldiers to guard at all times a concrete slab in front of the barracks. The soldiers changed shifts guarding the slabs for many years. Different commanders came and went and the tradition continued.

After many years, a new commander was assigned to the barracks. Amongst the things he did was asking why things were done the way they were. When he asked why soldiers were guarding the slab, he was told, "We've always done it this way. It's our tradition. Our former commanders instructed us to do that."

The commander was adamant on finding out why. He went to the archives to look for answers and he came across a document that had the explanation. The document was very old.  It had instructions written by one of the retired commanders who had even passed away.

The new commander learnt that over 80 years ago, the barracks wanted to build a platform where events could be performed. When the concrete slab was laid, wild animals walked over it at night before the slab would dry. The soldiers would fix it the next morning but when evening came the same thing would happen. So the commander ordered that 4 soldiers should guard the concrete slab for 3 weeks to allow it to dry. The following week the commander was transferred to another post and a new commander was brought in. The new commander found the routine and enforced it and every commander that came did the same. Eighty years later the barracks continued guarding a concrete slab.

What beliefs, attitudes, traditions have you carried on that were relevant to certain people or a certain time and they are still being carried out by you? Is your opinion about yourself, people of a different race, the opposite sex, certain business opportunities, new products etc obsolete? Question the status quo.

Sandras Phiri

I told you it was a thinker . . . how are you guarding a concrete slab? 

 

Are you managing cash by going online every day?  Or do you have a system in place that supports you with consciously planning cash for business or personal finances?  During hard core crunch times, do you react or respond, because "that is the way you have always done it?"

Ask yourself, what needs to change? What needs to be looked at from a fresh perspective so an old belief pattern stops?  Can you see how the "concrete slab" is an old belief?

Here is today's action plan - Jot down one or two areas in your finances, business or personal that you want to change.  For example, create a check register in excel  (I offer a 12 month check register) and start tracking your cash.   What are the recurring charges on your credit card statement that has been on there for months or years and your not using? Start monitoring utility bills to see how much your using and spending.  Is usage going up? Are there inconsistencies? Check it out.  Create a spreadsheet to compare the costs sided by side for a rolling 12 months. What do you see?

If you want help, reach out and ask. If you believe that you can figure it out, yet everything stays the same, it's time to ask yourself - How is that working for you?  Stop watching the concrete slab and make a change to move forward. I woud love to support you with moving forward.

Have a questione-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

Supporting you with moving forward.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

CFO Made Easy

Friday's Story to Inspire - Good or bad . . right or wrong .

"A mistake is simply another way of doing things." ~ Katherine Graham

 Children are often told that they are good or bad when what is meant is that their behavior is seen as pleasing or not pleasing.  When the idea of being good and bad is planted deep into consciousness at an early age, it leads to a belief that we have two parts, one good and one bad.  such a belief divides us against ourselves.  f we believe that we are half bad, we cannot really believe that we are one with Divine. This causes major conflicts, the symptoms of which are guilt, shame and a feeling of being unlovable.

The now-famous Dr. Albert Ellis, a pioneer in the field of cognitive therapy, eloquently stated, "We are always doing the best we can, given that we know what we believe."  Believing this invites us to easily understand why we behave the way we do and why change is often difficult.  Many years ago, this insight led me to the realization that I am neither good nor bad; I just am.  we are all beings acting in accord with what we know and believe.  The good news is that we can and will change what we know and believe, and we will always act accordingly. "Change your thinking, change your life" is much more than bumper-sticker wisdom.  by  Bob Luckin

As you read today's story to inspire what thoughts came up for you?  How can you internalize this concept to allow yourself to move forward in your business? In your life?  What if there was no "good" or "bad", "right" or "wrong". From my perspective we make choices.  A choice is a choice, not a label.  Why do we feel we need to label ourselves or others?  Labeling sets our world to make us feel ok about ourselves.  When in fact we are ok exactly as who we are, (without the labels) and where we are in any given moment.

I can understand how this may be a stretch for you, yet I invite you for one day, to remove  "good" and "bad", "right" and "wrong" from your vocabulary . .and just allow what shows up to be.

For example, when working on your business or an area of your personal life something does not go the way you planned, step back and say, "wow, that is not what I expected", then let it go, move forward.  There still may be the urge to label it as "good" or "bad", "right" or "wrong' yet just notice what you learned and the feeling you were left with.  this is allowing . . allowing you to be with where you are in that moment.  Notice and let go of the "label" and just be.

This is just another way of doing things in business and in life.  Because YOU are the CEO and CFO of your business and of your life.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

CFO Made Easy  

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - Pick Up Your Oar And Start Rowing

Today's story is a heartwarming story, that just makes you think in more ways then one.  Keeping it light for you today.  This finance stuff can get really heavy.

An inquiry - what is your heart wanting for you today?

Enjoy!

Pick Up Your Oar And Start Rowing

My boss, two co-workers and I stood behind the hard plastic seats. We were in the front section, on the first-base line at Shea Stadium, home of the New York Mets. We were so close to the infield, there was a protective net over our heads. I was new to the New York City area and had never been to Shea Stadium. These were dream seats. My heart pounded with excitement.

We stood with our umbrellas held high. The rain beat down on everything around us. It bounced off the seats and quickly formed deep puddles on the cover protecting the field.

"Steve," I asked my boss, "How did you get such great seats?"

"They came from Ed at the office. His dad is a blind sports writer and has a long- standing relationship with the Mets and Yankees."

The game was called due to rain. We left the stadium disappointed. On the long subway ride back to Jersey City, I wondered about the man behind the seats. How could a man be blind and be a sports writer?

Years have passed since that rainy night. Old friends back in Canada often ask me, "Mike, have you gone to a baseball game in New York yet?"

I say to them, "I've been to a few, but let me tell you about the best seats I ever had but couldn't use."

Whenever this happens, the memory of that night comes flashing back. I wonder about the blind sports writer. What was his story?

It had to be special.

I sat at my computer one night. An email popped into my in-box. I didn't recognize the return address. The subject line said, "Inspirational SI article about my dad, Ed Lucas." I was curious.

I opened the email. It was from a gentleman sending me a clip of a story written by Steve Rushin for Sports Illustrated. It was a wonderful read about a special man. Through the article and the man who sent it to me, I learned the full story. The following is a synopsis:

Twelve-year-old Ed Lucas ran home from his school in Jersey City. It was October 3, 1951. He arrived in time to see Bobby Thomson win the pennant for his favorite team, the New York Giants.

After the game, Ed ran out to play ball with his friends. During the game, Ed was hit between the eyes by a line drive. The force of the blow detached both retinas, leaving Ed permanently blind.

Ed became depressed. His mother, Rosanna, took matters into her own hands and took Ed to a Newark, New Jersey men's store.

There, she introduced him to Phil Rizzuto, a part-time employee of the store and a Yankee star. Phil befriended Ed.

Rosanna wasn't done yet. She wrote the Giants Manager, Leo Durocher, about her son. Leo asked her to bring Ed to, what was then called, the Polo Grounds. On June 14, 1952, young Ed sat in the clubhouse with the members of the Giants. It was the beginning of a special relationship.

Ed enrolled in St. Joseph's School for the Blind in Jersey City. The nuns were demanding. Ed learned to make his bed and match his clothes. If he whined about being blind and not being able to do what other kids could, Sister Anthony Marie was quoted saying, "Isn't that a shame? We're all in the same boat here, Ed. Pick up your oar and start rowing."

Ed enrolled in university to study communication arts. He worked hard. He knew no other way. The nuns had made sure of that.

He graduated in 1962 and became a regular in the Shea and Yankee Stadium press boxes, where he interviewed the players. Years later, a young Mets rookie, Ron Swoboda, took Ed by the hand. Together they walked the warning track around the field. Ed traced his fingers along the outfield wall. His fingers, sensitive to reading Braille, seemed to read the history of the park. Every dent, scratch and chip he touched meant something to him.

Later that year, Ed married. He and his wife had two sons - Eddie and Chris. Sadly, at a very young age, their mother left forever. Ed had to raise his two sons alone. With the strength he learned years ago at St. Joseph's, Ed took on the task. He taught his sons to be strong.

It was not uncommon for the two young boys to see Billy Martin in their home. "Huge stars like Mickey Mantle would tell me my dad was their hero," Chris was quoted as saying.

Years later, a friend came to Ed and told him about a nurse, Allison Pfeifle, whose detached retina left her legally blind and unable to continue her profession. He asked Ed to speak to her.

Ed and Allison talked on the phone for many years before meeting in person. They were baseball fanatics and spent their first date at Shea Stadium.

On March 10, 2006, at Yankee Stadium, Allison walked from the dugout to home plate and became Ed's new bride.

With his two sons at his side, Ed started a new life, at the place he holds so dear, and with the woman who captured his heart.

Ed, now 68, was quoted saying, "Baseball took my sight, but it also gave me my life."

***********************

I sat in shock. Could it be? I mailed Chris back and told him about the seats we couldn't use that rainy night.

He confirmed, his father was the man who provided those unused seats. Chris told me later, "They are the first couple in the 80 year history of the stadium to have the honor of marrying there."

I finally knew the story. It was sure worth waiting for.

Michael T Smith

Michael lives in Caldwell, Idaho with his wonderful wife Ginny. He writes in his spare time and is completing a collection of his stories to be called, “From My Heart to Yours.” Michael writes inspirational stories in his spare time. To read more of Michael's stories or to contact him, go to Michael-Timothy-Smith Stories

For support e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

CFO Made Easy

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - LET IT BE YOU!

This morning's words of wisdom come from Jim Rohn.  I love this man's leadership and style of motivation.  He truly makes my mind think.

As you read today's motivation, think of your business. If you don’t have a business, think of your life, now. Remember you are the CEO of your life. Life is your business, lead it that way.

Entrepreneurs, leaders and CEO's have a desire inside for a better life, to make a difference in our world. As the CEO of your life how do you want to have a better life, a life where you are making a difference for your family.

Enjoy today's story and why not Let it Be You.

Let it Be you!

Have you ever wanted to make more money? Have you ever looked at someone who has money and wished that it could be you? People think about getting wealthy all of the time, when only a small percentage actually does. But any of the masses could. Someone is going to start a business. Someone is going to make a great investment. Someone is going to begin the journey to great wealth. So why not let it be you?

Someone is going to decide to improve their relationships. Someone is going to enjoy love with their family. Someone is going to schedule some meaningful time with their friends. So why not let it be you?

Someone is going to go back to school to improve their life. Someone is going to become a lifelong learner. Someone is going to set a goal to read a book or listen to a CD each week for the next year. So why not let it be you?

Someone is going to look in the mirror and see that they need to lose a little weight and they will make the decision to become healthy. Someone will run their first marathon. Someone will join an aerobics class and improve their health. Why not let it be you?

I think that by now you get the point: Every day people are improving their lives. Whether you do or not doesn´t matter to those who do. They are going to do it, regardless. It is simply a matter of a decision being made. Let that person be you!

You may be asking, “Okay Jim, but how?” Well, let´s cover the very simple actions.

The first and most important is to make a commitment to work on yourself. Are you going to improve or stay the same? No matter what you have achieved, you are at a certain point right now. What you have achieved in the past is fine, but it doesn´t make a difference for the future. The decision about what you will become is made each day and every day. Each day someone is making the decision to better him or herself. Let that person be you!

The second is to make a plan. Once you have decided to become better you will have to have a plan. It doesn´t have to be a long, intricate plan. It can be simple. Save a dollar a day. Walk a mile a day. Read an article a day. That is a simple plan with achievable goals. Someone is going to develop a plan that will take them into the future of their dreams. Let it be you!

The third is to begin to act. All of the great ideas, without action, become stale and useless. The key to turning dreams into reality is action. People who have great ideas are a dime a dozen. People who act on their dreams and ideas are the select few, but they are the ones who gain the wealth and wisdom that is available. Someone will act today. Let it be you.

My encouragement to you is to stop looking at others who live the good life, wishing that you were as well, and instead begin to commit to your improvement, develop a plan and act on it. Someone is going to. Let it be you!

Jim Rohn
1930-2009, Author and Speaker
www.jimrohn.com 

Have a question or a comment, leave it below or e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@CFOMadeEasy.com

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt

Chief Heart Officer

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - "TELL ME SOMETHING GOOD"

Today's GREAT inspiring story . . I LOVED it as soon as I read it and thought this is PERFECT to share.  Of course I am always thinking.  . how can I apply inspiring stories around finances . . business and even personal . .

So as you read.  . apply this to how you think about and work with your finances . . this is about shifting your perspective . . look at the positive . . .
Tell me something good  . . .below . . Be inspired to just be with where you are.

Enjoy!

Here is your Friday story,

"Tell Me Something Good"

Many people that work at the hospital know me by the phrase/question: "Tell me something good!" Of course there are many things in this world that are bad; HOWEVER, there are also many, many things in this world that are good.

It took me years before I realized this valuable life's lesson, but I finally learned it! Therefore, I "spread" this message around work at the Harris Healthcare System, mainly at Ben Taub General Hospital on the trauma floor, to patients, families and staff.

On one occasion I called a discharged patient, Barbara, whom I had worked with over a lengthy hospitalization. Every time I would enter her room, I would ask her to "tell me something good!" At first, she did not have any answers because she felt that "nothing was good." However, eventually she started thinking deeply and realized, "Sure, I have many problems, but I also have many positive things. At least I am able to say I woke up."

She became positive and started smiling more and more, as she progressed daily. Eventually, she was discharged from the hospital. After a week, I called her to see how she was doing. Barbara answered the phone and I said, "Hi, this is Mike Segal." I waited for her to respond . . . and waited . . . and waited some more. I heard nothing but breathing on the other end of the phone. I broke the silence by repeating, "This is Mike Segal" and added "from Ben Taub Hospital." I was sure she now would realize who I was; however, again "nothing" but silence on the other end of the phone receiver. Quickly I said, "Tell me something good!"

I could "feel" Barbara's smile as she screamed, "MIKE!" She started yelling out questions and said she was doing very well. Now, it was my turn to smile!

I never know what to expect when I ask that question. One day I walked into a room and saw a patient in his hospital bed with his wife close by in a chair. "Hi, it's Mike. Hello John . . . Hello Sara. John, tell me something good."

I had been working with his wife, mainly in the waiting room, so I had not had much interaction with John, especially since he had been in the ICU, heavily sedated. However, now it was my time to ask my question, "Tell me something good."

John calmly answered, "Peanut Butter."

I started laughing and said, "Yes . . . Peanut Butter is good, but tell me something good ABOUT YOU!"

"I am looking forward to eating a Peanut Butter sandwich."

I continued to laugh as I thought, "At least he is not thinking negatively!"

Yet another patient, Mary, had been in the hospital for many weeks. She was beginning to get somewhat depressed, thinking on more than one occasion "that she would never be discharged from the hospital." I tried to encourage her, having her focus on what was positive in her life: family, friends, improving . . . I told her about one of my favorite books (out of print), which was a collection of positive short stories called, "Focus On The Bagel, Not On The Hole." I explained that, "Sure, there are many bad things in life; however, there are so many great things: Like the bagel!" I always tried to encourage her to "FOCUS ON THE BAGEL!"

One Monday when I walked into Mary's room, I saw her smiling from ear to ear. I quickly asked, "Mary, tell me something good." She hurriedly replied, "Mike, the doctor said maybe I could go home at the end of the week!"

I jumped back in, asking, "So what's the first thing you're going to do when you get home?"

Mary calmly smiled and said, "I'm going to eat a bagel . . . with Philadelphia cream cheese spread over and blocking the hole!"

I laughed, but realized how far she had come - both physically and emotionally. Sure, life can hurt, but Mary taught me that with a positive attitude, plus the Philadelphia cream cheese, most things are possible!

Michael Jordan Segal ©2012
Michael Jordan Segal, who defied all odds after being shot in the head and then returning to college, is a husband, father and social worker. He works at a level one trauma center (giving emotional support and hope to patients and families), freelance author (including a CD/Download of 12 stories, read with light background music, entitled POSSIBLE, as well as working on his autobiography, which will be entitled A SHOT OF INSPIRATION), and inspirational speaker, sharing his recipe for happiness, recovery and success before conferences and businesses. To contact Mike or to order his CD, please visit www.InspirationByMike.com   as well as checking out his youtube www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZLkyz4KG7A

How did that feel?  Share . .  Tell Me Something Good below . .about your business . . about your finances   .about your life.

Make it a great weekend . . and share a story to inspire . .

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer

Friday's Story to Inspire - Making A Difference

Today's story speaks to how a young boy took a small step, a little idea that served his country. This idea of his reflects commitment, dedication and love and purpose.

As you read this story, I wonder how does this story speaks to you.  I wander if you feel it in your heart that inspires you to take a step forward in serving purpose.

Enjoy Friday's story.  

Man grows 1,360-acre forest in India...by himself

A man in India single-handedly planted an entire forest, proving that one person really can make a large difference.

You always hear that one person can make a large difference in the world. Today, we've got a story that proves that saying.

When he was a teenager in Northern India's Assam region about 30 years ago, Jadav "Molai" Payeng began planting seeds in a sandbar near his birthplace. A few years later, he moved into the area and turned the seed-planting and tree-nurturing into his life's work, planting seeds and helping them grow over a wide area that was initially left for desolate.

In the past 30 years, his seed-planting endeavors have resulted in a massive, 1,360-acre jungle in Assam, a forest ecosystem that has left an incredible mark on the Indian landscape and stands as a testament to Payeng's dedication.

Initially, the forest department told Payeng that trees could not grow in that area. He was not dissuaded; instead he dedicated himself to the task of nurturing the forest, and his dedication has produced results. The Molai woods, in addition to being covered with lush greenery, is now home to a whole host of creatures big and small, including birds, deers, rhinos, tigers, and elephants.

Jadav "Molai" Payeng is a hero to those animals, to the ecosystem in the area, and to conservationists across India. But he is also a hero to us, people living oceans away who don't necessarily work in forestry or in the environment industry. Payeng is a hero because he has proven that with commitment, blood, sweat, knowledge, and dedication to making a difference, one person can truly make a difference, and a large difference, on the world.

It's easy to discount the impact that we can have on the people and places around us. It's easy to feel insignificant when faced with the enormity of the issues that surround us. But it's important to remember that our actions, no matter how small they may be, make a difference. Whether it's bringing a smile to someone's day or revitalizing a forest ecosystem, the little acts of kindness and good have enormous impact.

Our small actions may not necessarily lead to a forest and safe haven for animals, but they have the potential to grow and flourish all the same.

Sameer Vasta
Writer and Blogger

To share with you my purpose . . I LOVE my work . . I love working with CEO's, entrepreneurs and business owners.  Did you know that you are all one in the same? J You just don't see it.  I do and I am fascinated to hear each person's story of how each person started their business.

I have worked with many large multi-million dollar businesses as their Controller and CFO.  In 2007 I started my business to share my knowledge with entrepreneurs so they too can have their own CFO (Chief Financial Officer).  Yes t a CFO is ust a title . . however there is vast knowledge in knowing and understanding business finances.

How to manage cash flow, in Great times and very tough down times.  How to grow your business by creating revenue projections so you can see your dreams through numbers.

Revenue projections serve many purposes, it allows you to project and see when you offer is profitable, it allows you to see if you are charging the right price, it allows you to see what revenue would look like with increasing your price.  You are able to calculate "how many hours do I need to spend on generating this revenue.  Where there is only 24 hours in a day and you projected an unrealistic # of hours (units) in this case that you cannot fulfill . . how are you going to make it work?

I see so many AHHA's business owners have when they take the leap with revenue projections.

How are you managing your cash?  You're not?  WHY? This is so critical for every single business.  I DON"T CARE that you are a small business . . YOU need to know this . . it is critical.  It is about training your mind and beliefs in you.  When your business grows to a millon $, and your not tracking your cash . . how do you expect yourself to get caught up in learning when you are so busy running a million dollar business?

Here is an inquiry - if you had 30 minutes to ask me 3 critical, valuable questions that would support you with your business, what would you ask? 

Here is your opportunity.  Leave your questions below, or e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com or schedule a 30 minute complimentary finance strategy call.  I promise you will be heard.

My purpose with CFO Made Easy. . cultivate attention and awareness around business finances with an open heart and non-judgmental approach.  

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

FRIDAY'S STORY - LEAP FOR NEW OPPORTUNITIES

I love reading the deeper message in each Friday story I receive.  I absorb more from a story, it really makes me think.  This week's leap was to create short videos to share quick tips. I tend to over think things, it's not right, I didn't say this right or I did that wrong.

ENOUGH already. How did I get over myself?

I tapped into a couple of my strong values, I know I love connecting with people and sharing knowledge. One of my strongest driving values is the Italian family connection value.  So I saw the video's as opening the door to connect with you, to share information and for you to meet the real person behind the PC.  I hope the tips have been valuable.

As you read this, reflect on what has been itching for you to take that leap.  Enjoy Friday's story.

Leap for New Opportunities

Callie, the little kitten we rescued from the brush, walked across the back of our sofa and looked anxiously at me. Her eyes were wide with anticipation. I slipped my hand under the blanket we use for naps. My fingers wiggled under the soft cloth. Callie prepared herself. Her furry bottom twitched. Callie swished her tail back and forth, as she focused on the moving blanket. I watched carefully, ready for her attack.

Callie twitched her rear end one last time, leapt into the air and with her paws spread like the wings of a bird, landed on the scary moving blanket. Armed with sharp claws and teeth, she fearlessly attacked the ferocious moving cloth. She sank her dagger sharp teeth and claws into fabric and shook her head to make sure she made the kill.

The blanket was not ready to give up. My hand, slightly protected by the blanket, fought back. Callie tumbled to the left, got a new grip on the evil blanket and was thrown to the right, where she landed on her back, but continued to do battle. The fight seemed to be over, but Callie did not give up. She withdrew her claws, ran to the end of the sofa and planned a new attack.

She dropped to the floor and watched the blanket from a new angle. Her eyes followed every movement it made. She waited for an opening in its defense and leapt on it again. She landed hard and gripped my hidden hand with a vengeance. Her claws and teeth pierced the fabric and my skin. I screamed and pulled my hand away.

Callie won! She always does.

I wish I had her fearlessness. Where would I be today, if I did what she does? I've looked at many scary moving blankets in my life. There were a few I had the courage leap on, like taking a new job in another city. Mostly, I've seen the blanket move and ran away, afraid of the challenge.

We saved Callie from a life of dumpster feeding and that little furry girl taught me a life lesson - have no fear! Accept the challenge. Leap for new opportunities.

Michael T. Smith
Michael lives in Caldwell, Idaho with his wonderful wife Ginny. He writes in his spare time and is completing a collection of his stories to be called, From My Heart to Yours. To read more of his stories, go to:
http://ourecho.com/biography-353-Michael-Timothy-Smith.shtml#stories

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