Showing posts with label business owners. Show all posts
Showing posts with label business owners. Show all posts

Friday, October 10, 2014

BABY STEPS - STEP 2 OF A 3 STEP ACTION PLAN FOR MANAGING CASH

For a good twenty years, I managed cash daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly at privately held companies I worked for.  Consistently working cash flow so we were prepared for anything.

Step two for managing cash is using a weekly cash management tool.
This is a 52 week spreadsheet that tracks cash flow going in and coming out of your bank accounts. General checking, payroll account (If you have a separate account) savings account, and line of credit. In addition, this spreadsheet tracks accounts receivable, account payable and any credit card debt you may carry. 
Using this tool will have you looking at your accounts consistently and the tool allows you to manage and plan, when you need borrow from a line of credit, pay down the line, and or transfer money into savings.
For the gym, we have a savings account and we sock $500 to $1000 each month to cover the semi-annual real estate property taxes.  In addition, if there is more than enough we will put additional funds aside to cover new equipment for the gym.


Why manage cash weekly? This is the path that provides knowledge and direction for your financial goals for your business. This is so you know where you have been, where you are and see where you are heading at all times. Knowledge is power. Mapping out cash coming in and going out weekly, allows you to see and plan what is needed.


A question I am constantly asked - Why do I need to manage cash flow daily when I use QuickBooks.?


Great question - the answer - CASH is KING. Cash is worked daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly.  Cash is the lifeblood of every business. If you don't manage the cash coming in from accounts receivable and going out, accounts payable you run the risk of putting yourself out of business.  When you don't manage sales and accounts receivable you run the risk of missing income. (See previous post ) If you are not managing your expenses. i.e. accounts payable you can run the risk of negative circumstances where you have to scramble.  The numbers are only information, with that information, you make choices and decisions how to move forward.


A short story about cash flow. Back in 2008 I was working with a company that sold goods wholesale to large retailers.  There was one company that we had to constantly monitor as there were rumbles of bankruptcy in the air. Frightening, especially when there was over $500k in outstanding receivables. They continued to make promises to pay, however at the end of June we were notified they filed for bankruptcy protection. 


The good news, we had one advantage, our product the business was selling, was their best seller. They needed our product.  I immediately created a letter to the President of the company that filed bankruptcy stating all sales will be paid in advance by a wire. The President agreed. How did we do with cash flow? The cash sales from the bankrupt company funded our growth as the business grew 74% that year. You need cash to grow.


Your business will fail with poor cash flow management, so why run the risk?
Create that new muscle, a new habit and learn how to work your cash flow differently.  Cash happens right now, in this very moment when you receive a payment or are purchasing goods or services. Working cash daily and weekly forces you to look at and plan.  You are the CEO of your business and the CFO. Lead your finances as you lead your business.


Remember, CASH is KING, so you need to know where you are at all times.Creating simple, easy baby step habits opens the door to new possibilities for you and your business.
Next is step three - Cash Flow Management - Planning and mapping out sales i.e accounts receivable, expenses, i.e. accounts payable and credit card debt weekly.


Get in to action, and get cracking on managing your cash daily. If you have any questions or need help with managing your cash, reach out and ask for help, e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com to set up an appointment to discuss your needs.
Warmly -


Debbie Rosenfelt
President/CFO

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

BABY STEPS - STEP 1 OF A 3 STEP ACTION PLAN FOR MANAGING CASH


I was reminded back in the summer of 2012 in a blog post by Jeff Walker, creating success happens in baby steps.  I needed that reminder today, to remind myself I am on a journey to building my business and it doesn't happen overnight . . although I would LOVE the success to happen yesterday. A heartfelt YES, and you?
So I thought, why not create a post that supports you the leader, entrepreneur, business owner, CEO, a baby step action plan for managing the heart of your business, cash.
Step #1 - Manage cash daily. 
How you ask?
With the daily, 12 month cash register.
Why manage cash daily? This is the path that provides direction for your financial goals for your business. This is so you know where you are at all times, and so you see where you are heading. Mapping out cash coming in and going out daily, allows you to see and plan what is needed. You know when monthly recurring bills and loan payments happen, so map it out and plan how much cash you need daily..
A question I am constantly asked - Why do I need to manage cash flow daily when I use QuickBooks.?
Great question - the answer - CASH is KING. Cash is worked daily, you need to know how much cash you have on hand at all times. YES, that means creating a new muscle, a new habit if you want to figure out how to work your cash flow differently.  Cash happens right now, in this very moment when you receive a payment or are purchasing goods or services. Working cash daily forces you to look at and think of what is coming up next. If it is next week, the end of the month, next month or next quarter, etc.
When I was working with the privately held corporations, as the CFO I worked and planned cash daily, always looking at each day, each week, each month and each year. My team worked on and updated the financials in the accounting software used. AR, AP, monthly transactions, etc were worked on thru out the month.  Cash and financials are two different animals, cash is cash and financials are the whole picture of the financial story for the business.
Even now, with our gym business, we manage cash daily with the daily cash register. IT's like a checkbook in Excel, that holds 12 months of info in one workbook. Each month has it's own tab, and each worksheet is linked to the next. Every day we look at cash and manage it daily. Each day's deposits are mapped out and updated daily at the end of the day or the next morning. Recurring payments such as payroll, trainers commissions, monthly loan payments, purchasing supplies and advertising. By doing this we are able to make a decision how much to transfer to savings each month.  We put aside the bi-annual property tax payments or plan for additional equipment purchases.  I also balance the bank statement to the daily cash register which is a check and balance system for balancing cash to QuickBooks at the end of the month.
Remember, CASH is KING, so you need to know where you are at all times.
Creating simple, easy baby step habits opens the door to new possibilities for you and your business.
Next, I will share step two - Managing cash weekly with the cash management register.
Get in to action, and get cracking on managing your cash daily. If you have any questions or need help with managing your cash, reach out and ask for help, e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com to set up an appointment to discuss your needs.
Warmly -


Debbie Rosenfelt MBA CPCC
President / CFO.

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Questions, Questions, Questions

What business or financial questions have been sitting in the back of your mind that you have been wanting answered?

I created the CFO Made Easy Q&A Test Pilot for small business owners to get support.  to get those questions answered.


There will be a series of 4 weekly calls, beginning Friday July 11th at 11AM PDT running through Friday, August 1st..

What burning questions could be on your mind?

What is the difference between Profit and loss versus cash flow?

How should I manage my cash flow?

How often should I review my bank account?

How do I find a bookkeeper to enter my invoices and expenses?

What is a chart of accounts?

How do I go about getting a business loan?

That is just a few that you may have on your mind that you want answers for from an expert.

Register here to get your questions answered .. Ask CFO Made Easy


Talk to you on Friday. #AskCFOMadeEasy

 
Warmly -

Debbie
















Tuesday, December 10, 2013

CHANGING PROBLEMS INTO PROJECTS

Every morning I treat myself with a ritual of reading, meditation, journaling and praying.  When I come across a really good thought provoking story and insight my heart jumps a beat and states . . I must share this insight . . this wisdom.

Some of you may wonder or ask why? - Because my belief is we were put on planet earth to support each other to succeed.  In whatever it is we are here to do on our journey of life, and our journey of business.
If you feel or hold the notion that you are here to "do it" on your own - think again. 
I challenge you to ask yourself internally, "What is it that has me think I need to go/be on the journey to do life/business alone?"  Look around you - God did not place you on this planet alone.  Who made the rule;  its not ok to ask for help?  Leaders ask for help.  . There is strength and courage in asking for help.
So here it is . . the bit of wisdom I came across last week from the daily guides of Science of Mind . .
Changing Problems into Projects
"While in Southern California a few years ago, I was being interviewed on a radio program. The moderator said, “I have been to your church, and I notice that you are always happy, and you act as if you never have a problem. How do you do that?”

My heart responded, “I see problems as projects, because when we have a project, we seem to look for a plan to find the answer. And so I refer to problems as projects.”

What we call a problem is a temporary detour from a course of action, an unexpected event, or some interruption in our intentions, aspirations, or goals. One way to address a problem is to remember the biblical thought that says, “And it came to pass.” Deep within each of us lies an insular Tahiti—filled with peace and joy. That thought implies that despite challenges, problems, or temporary interruptions of our goals, there are answers available for every project.

Significant learning may be garnered from a strenuous situation, and this learning may be used for future enrichment. A wise counsel during problematic times is to be still and know. Another workable idea is to refrain from constantly verbalizing the issue. By taking the time to be still and listen within, we fulfill the words of a writer who says, “Be quiet, or your mouth will keep you deaf.” In silence, we access answers and promote greater receptivity for our good."

Science of Mind December 2013 Daily Guides

How do you see problems or issues in business?  In life?  Why not reframe from 'problem" to "project"?  Brainstorm solutions with your staff, business partner, coach, spouse or friends?

Problems/projects arise on our journey of life and business because we have something significant to learn.  Are you listening?

Warmly -

Debbie
 

Have questions or want support? Email me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

Saturday, July 6, 2013

COURAGE AND FEAR ARE INSEPARABLE

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage.  Anaïs Nin

Fear is an inevitable part of the landscape of our existence.  We have the results if billions of years of biological evolution built into every cell, every organ, and every system within the body.  Fear is an essential quality in the physical world, whether it is the awareness of danger or an encounter of with an unknown.  Fear just is.
So our goal cannot be to eliminate fear.  That would be like trying to eliminate skin - impossible.  What we must learn to do is to take greater dominion over our inner processes, including the fear response.  One way to do this is to develop courage.  Courage is also part of the landscape of our existence - another evolutionary gift from the ages.  Courage is the capacity to override fear where appropriate.  Courage is never present unless fear is also present.  every courageous act that we admire is performed by someone who overcomes fear.  And in order to overcome fear, we have to experience fear.  I have tired, but I cannot find a way around this.  We move through the fear, let the inner power express, and the experience is transformed.
So courage and fear are inseparable.  These two qualities go together.  As we develop the capacity to express courage, we do not rid ourselves of fear; we become the master of fear.  That is what we are to do in this life. (Science of Mind Magazine, July 2013, Jim Lockard; page 42)

Read this the other day and I felt one of my deeper inquiries was answered.  Last December I made an internal decision to conquer my fear as I am just tired of it.  It's paralyzing effects where it just stops me in my tracks.  I purchased quite a few books on "Fear" (Fear Thich Nhat Hanh,  The Transformation, Ainslie MacLeod, May Cause Miracles - A 42 Day Guide book, Gabrielle Berstein) to help me get to the point that I could stand on the top of the world and shout out.  . "I have CONQUERED you fear, Dam it."
Yet what I have noticed, I have read, listened, acknowledged and practiced recognizing what my fear is and just being with it.  Asking myself, "what am I learning about me and fear?"  What is needed?  I learned for me, it takes courage and compassion to stand up to fear.  With courage and compassion for self, I have developed a deeper connection and understanding of me.
Now learning that fear and courage are two qualities that hold hands and  that I will not rid myself of fear, I am able to be more purposeful when fear pops up.  I will ask myself, is this true fear of danger ahead, or is it because of the unknown.
Take time for yourself with courage and inquire deep within you what is your fear.  Know there is nothing to fix, just be curious to explore what it would take for you to move forward, if you feel stuck or paralyzed.
May this affirmation speak to you:
" I am a being of great courage.  I know that my inner strength is unlimited.  I face my fears from a place of deep knowing that there is more to me than fear -infinitely more."
 
Warmly -

 
Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer
 
 
 

Friday, June 14, 2013

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, August 24, 2012

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  

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

PURPOSE IS A GUIDING LIGHT . . . . .

"A #2 pencil and a dream can take you anywhere." ~ Joyce Myers

I am an avid reader of the Science of Mind magazine. Each message speaks to my heart and soul. Below is one daily reading I want to share with you.
Are you, YES YOU, moving forward with discovering your purpose?  Is your heart and soul nudging you?  Whatever that looks like for you.
Just a quiet little reminder. Enjoy!

Purpose
Sometimes, it is difficult to figure out purpose.  Too often, friends are willing to tell you what they think your purpose is, especially when it serves them. I have found something interesting about purpose: all I need to do is decide what my purpose is and be 180 degrees away from it. Once you set an intention to find your purpose, however, the universe will conspire to guide you. The only thing you can do wrong is to do nothing.
Purpose is a guiding light. You must not forget your purpose, but don't allow your purpose to tether you. Choose a purpose, and don't be attached to having it be the right one. Choose nothing, and the universe knows you are not yet willing to play. (SOM, August 4, 2012)

So, are you playing? or are you not yet willing to play? Share your passion, your purpose below.  . GET IT OUT!.  . Scream it to the world. .  we are waiting to hear your voice. Your soul is waiting for you to play.

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer

Friday, July 27, 2012

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

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

BABY STEPS - STEP 2 OF A 4 STEP ACTION PLAN FOR MANAGING CASH


For a good twenty years, I managed cash daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly at the privately held companies I worked for.  Consistently working cash flow so we were prepared for anything.

Step two for managing cash is using a weekly cash management tool.
This is a 52 week spreadsheet that tracks cash flow going in and coming out of your bank accounts. General checking, payroll account (If you have a separate account) savings account, and line of credit. In addition, this spreadsheet tracks accounts receivable, account payable and any credit card debt you may carry. 
Using this tool will have you looking at your accounts consistently and allows you to manage and plan, when you need to borrow from a line of credit, pay down the line, and or transfer money into savings.
We have a savings account for the gym and we sock $500 each month to cover the semi-annual real estate property taxes.  In addition, if there is a little cash left over we will put additional funds aside to cover new equipment for the gym.
You can purchase the weekly cash management tool to your right for $175, equal to $3.37 a week, which is equivalent to less than one Grande latte.
Why manage cash weekly? This is the path that provides knowledge and direction for your financial goals for your business. This is so you see where you have been, know where you are and plan where you are heading at all times. Knowledge is power. Mapping out cash coming in and going out weekly, allows you to see and plan what is needed.

A question I am constantly asked - Why do I need to manage cash flow daily when I use QuickBooks.?
Great question - the answer - CASH is KING. It is the lifeblood of every business. If you don't manage the cash coming in from accounts receivable and going out, accounts payable you run the risk of putting yourself out of business.  When you don't manage sales and accounts receivable you run the risk of missing income. (See previous post REVENUE PATROL ALERT ) If you are not managing your expenses. i.e. accounts payable you can run the risk of negative circumstances where you have to scramble.  The numbers are only information, with that information, you make choices and decisions how to move forward.
A short story about cash flow. Back in 2008 I was working with a company that sold goods wholesale to large retailers.  There was one company that we had to constantly monitor as there were rumbles of bankruptcy in the air. Frightening, especially when there was over $500k in outstanding receivables. They continued to make promises to pay, however at the end of June we were notified they filed for bankruptcy protection.
The good news, we had one advantage, our product the bankrupt business was selling, was their best seller. They needed our product.  I immediately created a letter to the President of the bankrupt company stating all sales will be paid for in advance by a wire. The President agreed. How did we do with cash flow? The cash sales from the bankrupt company provided cash in advance and funded our growth as the business grew 74%that year.  You need cash to grow.
Your business will fail with poor cash flow management, so why run the risk?
Create that new muscle, a new habit and learn how to work your cash flow differently.  As I shared in Step One, Cash happens right now, in this very moment when you receive a payment or are purchasing goods or services. Working cash daily and weekly forces you to look and plan.  You are the CEO of your business and the CFO. Lead your finances as you lead your business.
Remember, CASH is KING, so you need to know where you are at all times.

Creating simple, easy baby step habits opens the door to new possibilities for you and your business.
Next is step three - Cash Flow Management - Planning and mapping out sales i.e accounts receivable, expenses, i.e. accounts payable and credit card debt weekly.
Get in to action, invest in yourself and your business. Purchase the weekly cash management tool and get cracking on managing your cash. If you have any questions please leave below or e-mail me at d.rosenfelt@cfomadeeasy.com

Warmly -

Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer.

Friday, June 22, 2012

FRIDAY'S STORY TO INSPIRE - REAL CHANGE TAKES TIME

Today's story .  . AMAZING ... . As you read, ask yourself inside . . what story am I creating in my day, every day? What do I want to change about me so I can move forward with creating financial success for my business, and my life. 

Listen to your gut . . your intuition . Know .. YOU have all the answers.

Enjoy!

Real Change Takes Time

Did you hear the one about the country bumpkin who took his family to the big city for the first time? Lost in a strange place, he stopped in front of a multi-story hotel building. Father and son went inside to get some directions.

Standing in the lobby, they were looking around for someone to ask. They spied a kind-looking old man with a cane and started toward him. They drew back, though, when the wall opened up for him! They watched in amazement as the wall closed, numbers above the opening grew larger than smaller, and the doors opened again. Out came a young man in confident stride and business suit. "Son, wait right here," said the farmer. "I'm going to get in that thing!"      

All of us could wish change came so quickly and so painlessly. I'd rather lose 20 pounds with a pill than deny myself extra helpings or desserts and begin to exercise. Some people prefer to saddle themselves with debt to buy a house full of furniture rather than buy furniture as they can afford it or to buy a new car they could easily do without. And so the stories go. We want what we want - now.           

I even think I see a lot of anger in today's world that is tied to the same thing. Petty people get mad at the good fortune of others. They want immediately what someone else attained over time. Immature people want the recognition and life status other people earned over years, but they want it on a silver platter - today.           

We laugh at the bumpkin who thought an elevator was a magic box that made old into young, stooped into sprightly, and plain into stylish. Maybe we should be laughing at ourselves. Going to college doesn't make one wise. Driving an expensive car doesn't confer refinement or personality. Living in an exclusive part of town says nothing about the happiness of the people who live in its newest and nicest house. And going to church doesn't confer spirituality.           

Authentic change in looks, lifestyle, and personality takes place over time. If there is an outcome you'd like, the surest way to achieve it is not to waste your money on dangerous pills or to squander it on lottery tickets. Set a worthy goal, identify the incremental steps necessary to get there, and begin your journey. Know in advance that the wisdom, discipline, and understanding that come from the journey are equally as valuable as anything at its end.

Rubel Shelly

Rubel Shelly is a Preacher and Professor of Religion and Philosophy located in Rochester Hills, Michigan. In addition to church and academic responsibilities, he has worked actively with such community projects as Habitat for Humanity, American Red Cross, From Nashville With Love, Metro (Nashville) Public Schools, Faith Family Medical Clinic, and Operation Andrew Ministries. To learn more about Rubel please go to: www.RubelShelly.com

What did you hear for yourself in this story?  My message for you. . it's time, it's time for you to change the feelings of making yourself wrong, feeling shame, fear and frustration about finances.  What purpose does it serve? What I know is those feelings keep you going in circles. Shame, fear, guilt, frustration, you hide, shame fear, guilt, frustration, you hide.
Step out if the circle and CHOOSE, make a DECISION to learn to be with business finances in a new light, heck even personal finances. You think it's hard because you make it hard.  Keep it simple and easy.  It's about taking one step, one small step to moving forward.
When you allow yourself to feel where you are right now in this moment and each moment you value YOU, you acknowledge YOU. Through the process of allowing yourself to feel, you will learn more about self acceptance.


Questions or have a comment to share, leave it below or reach out and ask for help, e-mail me at Debbie Rosenfelt, Chief Heart Officer.
I hear what you don't see or notice for you.
Warmly -
Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer

Thursday, June 14, 2012

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.


Friday, June 1, 2012

DAILY SEEDS FOR FINANCIAL SUCCESS

This has been an exciting week for me.  I completed creating and launching Daily Seeds for Financial Success.

Boy have I learned a heck of a lot.  I know finances like the back of my hand . . yet when I am learning something new, something I have never done before as an Entrepreneur, it takes forever just to get that new thang accomplished.  Do you find that as well?

First, let me share what Daily Seeds for Financial Success is.  It is a daily inspirational message that you receive 5 days a week and the message is around finances.  One message a day, Monday through Friday.
You receive an inspirational quote, an inquiry posed around (business) finances and then a daily affirmation. The concept, how to encourage, empower and motivate you to work consciously on your finances.  Business or Personal.
I have 28 years of experience in the finance world working with CEO's in privately held companies and I made the decision to start working on achieving my own dreams and get back to being an entrepreneur and support many, many, many CEO's, entrepreneurs and business owners at one time. 
Yet know, as you are reading this if you are not an entrepreneur or business owner YOU are the CEO and CFO of your own life.  So this does apply to you as well.  Just remove "business' from finances and there is only finances.  Treat your life, your finances like a business and you too can achieve success.

Back to the story of the creating part . . . so creating Daily Seeds for Financial Success came about last March though my meditation practice and I started writing messages.  Check . . .
Next I learned about what it would take to launch Daily Seeds for Financial Success . .
Purchase a URL that supports Financial Success ..  www.dailyfinancialsuccess.com

Set up hosting for the URL . .

Set up Word Press . .

Purchase Optimize Press . .

Create a Banner for the Opt in page - find a designer . . . . . Thank you Holly Firth Russell

Find someone on Odesk to set up Opt in page . .

Create Welcome and thank you videos  . . 5 tapings later . .√

Set up all messages on Aweber and ask for help from Aweber. . √

Start promoting . . . √

These one liners do not even describe the length of dedicated time it took to get through little hurdles.  The point is, when you are committed to your DREAM . . to achieve what you see for your business, you will take all the steps needed to accomplish what you want for you, your business and the world. 
First . . go and subscribe to Daily Seeds for Financial Success so you too may be encouraged, empowered and inspired to move forward with your business and personal finances.
And be inspired to share below what your dream is for your business.  I love hearing each of your unique stories of how you started your business in the entrepreneurial world.   Be proud and celebrate every little success . . it makes our hearts stronger.
Thank you for reading and listening . . I look forward to connecting with you next time.

Warmly -
Debbie Rosenfelt
Chief Heart Officer