Surround Yourself with Greatness

Posted on January 8, 2013 by MarleneMB

When I workout, I like to listen to music and motivational/inspirational speakers. One of these speakers, I have reciting his words of wisdom in my ears, is Tony Robbins. On this particular recorded chat, Tony retells his conversation with a U.S. General about people maintain a certain standard in their lives. The general asked why did some people allow their standards to drop. Tony told him “most people’s lives are a direct reflection of the expectation of their peer group.”

Isn’t that the truth! Most of us are influenced by the people that surround us. There a quite a few researches that have shown the link between the impact the folks, you have around, and your daily behavior/habit. You can read the article written by Louise Wasylkiwand Molly E. Williamson about the way young women view their bodies depends on the views of their friends. No big surprise to most of us. Yet, some of us don’t apply this knowledge to our lives. We allow people with negative habits or attitudes into our lives and the result is not always good for us.

There is a popular saying that is spoken in most sales office: “If you want to fly like an eagle, you don’t fly with pigeons.” A young man asked me how he could get a job in a particular industry. I asked him to name the folks and groups he hung out with outside his family and his work. None of them included folks in the industry in which he wants to work. I instructed him to ensure he has the skills required for the particular job he wants, and to attend networking events as well as find a mentor in that industry. I told him to surround himself with the folks who are doing what he wants to do.

It’s a New Year. It’s a new day. My friends, start surrounding yourselves with greatness, the greatness that you admire and want to be. Surround yourself with people that will make you a better Diamond.

Live a Diamond Life! Live a Life of Purpose!

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Every Day is A Gem

Posted on January 7, 2013 by MarleneMB

During her presentation to the Toastmasters Officers in Broward County, Conni Gordon said that we should open each day like it is a gem. What a great advice and reminder to us all. This morning I remember this and instantly felt happier and more determined to make it the best day possible. It was a little later than I normally head outside for my morning walk/run and cloudy.

Conni’s words propelled me forward in my resolve to still go out for my exercise. I quickly go in my outfit and rushed out the door. I was greeted by a cool breeze and overcast skies. As I got along the bay I saw a seagull dive into the water and up again to alit onto a peering. It was so magnificent to see. That gull is certainly making the best of the day, I thought. I encountered a woman walking her two dogs and we exchanged the usual morning pleasantries. She stated that the rain seems to be only over us and nowhere else. I told her listening to Neil Diamond on my iPod made it a better day. She agreed.

I headed off down the road and came across some lovely bushes of Bougainvillea. I stopped and picked a few. I hope you enjoy the picture of them inserted for you viewing pleasure. As I continued on my path, so many ideas for new blog articles came to mind. I also reviewed my upcoming day’s conference calls, business follow up meetings, etc. that I had planned.

By the time I rounded the halfway point of my journey, the rain became heavier, my alarm went off on my phone reminding me of my morning-prayer call with my girlfriend. We pray each weekday morning for the success of our businesses and encourage each other. I got on the call, my girlfriend prayed as I got back to my complex. By then, I felt exhilarated.

Wow! What a great way to start a “gem” of a day. In my case, it will be a Diamond Day!

Live a Diamond Life! Live a Life of Purpose!

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Please visit our websites: www.marlenembryan.com and www.higherroadconsulting.com

Learning from a Master…Better Yet…A Mistress

Posted on January 4, 2013 by MarleneMB

My head is still spinning from the precious moments I spent with Conni Gordon. Conni is ninety-years young and has been a painter for most of her life. She is a gifted artist, author and speaker. Conni has taught folks like Johnny Carson, David Letterman, Larry King and recently Bonnie Hunt how to paint in one sitting. Besides being so talented, she is a wealth of information. She had such great marketing ideas for me to improve my marketing skills. Here is a video of Conni on the Bonnie Hunt Show (skip to 1:48).

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9G-h7z0ySTg]

Throughout her life, Conni has met many celebrities such as Picasso, danced with Robert Goulet and dated Tarzan! Wow! She has sold over 17 million of her books. Conni has spoken around the globe. But that is not what impressed me about Conni. Although, these are great accomplishments, I find Conni to be such a warm-hearted down-to-earth person. She is eager to teach others her craft. Conni also navigates her way around her iMAC like a pro! I hear there is a movie in the works about part of her life. Yet, one would never know it upon meeting her.

Conni is sweet and humble and giving. I asked her what keeps her going. She said the look on people’s faces when they realize that they CAN paint after stating that they have no ability to do so. She also donates her time to different charity organizations. Conni also teaches others how to improve their lives and pursue their dreams. I count myself to be blessed to meet this Wonder Woman and look forward to spending time with her again. Once again I feel like such a winner because I continue to meet people, like Conni Gordon.

Until next time…Keep Living a Diamond Life. Live a Life of Purpose!

Please click to like my fan pages: MarleneMBryanLLC and HigherRoadConsultingCorporation

Please visit our websites: www.marlenembryan.com and www.higherroadconsulting.com