We are days away from spring.

Can you believe it? How is your year going? Are you reaching your goals, resolutions, and dreams? Have you been getting those projects done?

Or… Do you need a friend to help you troubleshoot, problem- solve, organize, and get out of your rut? Could it be time to Spring Clean and get some real help so you can make this year really count? Is it time to get a plan that will help you set and reach your goals…get things done…make those resolutions a reality…and live your dream? I can help!

I am so excited to announce our next coaching program which begins next Monday afternoon. This program is just perfect for wherever you are…

–> With an idea and absolutely nothing ready to have a business?

–> No idea where to begin?

–> Got everything ready to go, but just cannot find time to get it done?

–> Struggling with getting your family on board (Or at least busy so you can snag time to work)?

–> Been working, but just not getting response on the internet and have NO idea why?

Yep! If any of this is YOU, then this program is JUST FOR YOU. Instead of me writing any more, let me take you to the site so you can learn more about this coaching program. You will LOVE it! Learn more here….

>>>> http://www.Writers-Nook.com/SpringClean.html

See ya there!

With much love,
Cindy
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

Time to Spring Clean Your Business!
Join us! This is the year to go for your dreams!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/SpringClean.html

Practicing good Christian business principles is essential to having a business that honors God.  As a Christian business owner, don’t you want God to be pleased with how you do business?  After all, your business is a gift from God, and it is only right that you run it in a way that gives Him honor.

As you look around today at businesses, especially those on the internet, I think you will find many that do not adhere to Christian business principles.  They may not even know what they are.  You will see businesses that make false claims or are run in way that is totally self-serving.  Not to mention all the scams that take people’s money and promise them things that they cannot follow through with.  It’s very sad.

However, we have a chance to be different and to stand out from the rest in our business dealings.  Don’t ever think that your business is separate from the rest of your life and doesn’t need to follow Christian principles.  This is not so.

We need to be honest and fair when we are dealing with others in our business, whether it be customers or employees.  We should treat them with kindness and respect and go the extra mile to help them.  Offering excellent customer service is a basic Christian business practice that you should consider.  Don’t be surprised if you see your business take off as a result.

Other business principles that we, as Christians, should be exhibiting are looking out for others’ needs, even at the expense of making a sale.  If we cannot give a customer what they really need, we should be happy to recommend another product or solution. “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4

Giving is another area where we can please God with our business.  God wants us to share and help each other when there is a need.  Giving part of the income from your business is one way you can be obedient and help others in the process.  However, don’t let people take advantage of you.  Some people believe that, as Christians, we should give everything away and not make money on it.  I do not believe this is Biblical.

Adopting good Christian business principles will not only honor God, but will also bless your business.

Want more insight into Christian business ethics?

Laurie has created a 34-page eBook that gives Scriptures and insight into running your business in a way that honors and pleases God.  You can pick it up at http://www.christianhomebusinessconnection.com/christian-business-ethics.html at a discount until Feb. 3 – only $9.95! Don’t miss it!

What are Christian business ethics?  In simple terms, it means running your business in a way that is upright and based on Christian principles.

Today, there are many dishonest dealings done by businesses.  They may have prices that are way too high,  less than quality products, or make claims made that are simply not true.  I shudder at the scam business opportunities that prey on people who are desperate for a better way.   This is not the way to please people or God.

Christian business ethics must include honesty, fairness and treating others with kindness and respect.  I believe these are the basics, but if we really want to run our businesses on Biblical principles, we should go beyond the basics.  What about outstanding customer service and turning the other cheek when someone is nasty to us?

Running our businesses based on Christian standards doesn’t mean letting people walk all over us.  I think we can look at Jesus for our example in this.  Jesus was firm but kind.  He didn’t let people get away with just anything, but always reacted in a way that stood for what was right.  He gave when He had the opportunity, but He also worked as a carpenter for a living.  So, I believe He worked to provide for His needs and to also have something to give to others when they needed it.

There will be times when, as a Christian business owner, you will have the opportunity to share some of your earnings with others who need it.  Don’t let those opportunities go by!  You will be blessed in the long run when you give to others willingly.

There may be other times when you feel someone is trying to take advantage of you, asking for everything for free.  You will need to be discerning about when God is calling on you to help someone out and when you need to be firm and not give everything away.

Ask God for wisdom in this and He will give it to you.  “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”  James 1:5

Christian business ethics are not meant to put a burden on you, but rather to give you life and blessing.

Want more insight into Christian business ethics?

Laurie has created a 34-page eBook that gives Scriptures and insight into running your business in a way that honors and pleases God.  You can pick it up at http://www.christianhomebusinessconnection.com/christian-business-ethics.html at a discount until Feb. 3 – only $9.95! Don’t miss it!

Staying positive, even in the face of adversity, can help you conquer challenges.  When you think positively, you are envisioning your success.  Failure will not be an option; you will move past the obstacles in your way.  When a person thinks positively, they will attract positive people and positive outcomes in their life.

When you find yourself facing a roadblock, try to find a way around it.  It can be easy to give up.  Giving up will not bring you any closer to accomplishing your goals.  In fact, giving up can make you feel even worse and cause more stress.

Finding a way to forge ahead and reach your goal or accomplish your task will help you grow as a person.  You will feel more confident and able to take on new, more difficult challenges.

It can be difficult to take on a new positive personality.  It is not realistic to expect anyone to change completely overnight.  Taking small steps toward positive thinking will create big changes.

When you wake up in the morning, envision a few positive thoughts.  Imagine yourself having a great day.  Think about all of the wonderful things that will be happening to you.  Think about what you would like to see happening–attracting new clients or being contacted by a reporter who wants to feature you in a magazine story.

You may want to consider creating a “dream board” or a “dream book”.  Write out all the things you would like to accomplish.  Look through magazines and find pictures that correspond with those goals.  When you find a picture you like, cut it out and pin it to a bulletin board or paste it into a scrapbook.

Don’t be afraid to reach for the stars with this project.  If you see a picture of a house you would love to live in, put it on your dream board.  Find a picture of a car you’ve always wanted or a picture of a place you would love to travel to.

Take a moment each day to look at your dream board or flip through your dream book.  Think positive thoughts such as “one day, I will own that car” or “one day, I will take a vacation here”.  This can inspire you and motivate you to work hard and achieve success.  Your dream book is giving you a glimpse of your rewards.  Now, it is up to you to take action.

1. Get a vision. First things first. Who are you? What are YOU all about? What is YOUR message? When others come to you, what do they ask you? Take some time to really think this one out.  Your blog will only be a success when you find YOUR voice. Pull apart and get a vision. Keep your blog simple, clear, uncluttered, and focused. Stick to who you are. Don’t change up every day. Don’t add in content that does not go along with your message. Get a vision for what you are to be all about and be ONLY that.

2. Set it up right. Don’t take short-cuts. If you want to build a successful business, invest in your “home on the web.” This is not an area to skimp by or put off. Grab your own domain and host your site yourself. The reasons are more than I can cover in an entire article, but the biggest reason is that you are building a business. Build your business with a solid foundation. If you are a writer, invest in your own name TODAY as a domain. If you are setting up a site for a particular business venture, grab your domain for it. My favorite hosting service is Mom Webs: http://www.writers-nook.com/MomWebs.html You can grab your domain and set up your hosting account in just a few minutes. Also, ask them to install Wordpress for you. They will even install an adorable theme for you for around $10. If you have a blog that is hosted by a free service, they can even help you to pull your RSS Feed (all of your past posts) into your new site–PRICELESS! They are super! Wordpress is another big MUST that will help you get started on the right track. I love that you can set up your site and add a good theme in just a few steps. Again, set it up right. A good design will take you along the path to success. It will make a huge difference in YOU and your audience. Don’t skimp on this step. Set up your site for success. Invest in a good, solid home on the web.

3. Keep growing and learning. A great site takes time to build. Keep it growing. Commit to add fresh new content to your site every day–articles, audios, videos, tip sheets, downloadables, printables, etc. Keep it growing and expanding. Stay on the cutting edge! The best way to do that is to keep on learning. Right now, I am studying through a new set on blogging. I can’t believe all of the new ideas for plug-ins, social networking options, etc that are new THIS YEAR. I set aside time each day to learn new things either through reading or listening to shows/seminars. Talk about a great way to make my site all it can be. You won’t be there immediately, but you will get there. Commit today to grow and learn. Never stop. Stay creative. Stay on the cutting edge.

4. Make sure that your site reflects YOU. Make sure that your site helps others get to know you and your heartbeat. Include your pictures, your audios, your videos, your writing, and what you love. Let them get to know YOU–your heart, your interests, your knowledge, your life, your expertise. Let your site help to build your brand. Instill in peoploe who you are and what you have to offer. Be the Google-the place people go to search–for your market. Be the place they go when they need help.

5. Don’t be shy about what you have to offer. Now, first, be mindful that some things are annoying–banners/blocks all over the page, apps all over the page, flashing letters, crazy fonts, etc. BUT, some things really work to make your site profitable–

–>  Offer Q/A–have a spot/category just for answering questions. As you answer questions, don’t shy away from linking to resources that you recommend. Hyperlink words or resources to pages with more information. Watch the responses.

–>  Post articles–not only can you link to any recommended resources/products within the article, but you can also have a nice pitch for products in your resource box at the bottom of the article. ALWAYS pitch something–one of your products, your mailing list, your radio show, etc. Give them access to other things that will help them with that topic.

–>  Link to your store–make it easy for people to find what you have to offer. Keep it neat. Keep it simple. Keep it prominent.

6. Bring others in to help you. Feel overwhelmed? Let others help you. There are so many ways that you can get help as you build your site. You can bring in guest bloggers–those who love the same topics and can share their articles, audios, and videos on your site. I have many friends who are always ready to share fun freebies–they help my site to be a great spot on the web, but they also promote what they have going on. It is win-win-win! You can even get the visitors to the site to join in and share great content. I began offering what I call “Mommy Homework” years ago. “Mommy Homework” is a weekly topic of discussion on my blog. Those who participate earn credit toward our products. Of all of the things I read each week, “Mommy Homework” is my most favorite. Imagine how awesome it is for those who visit my site. Before I go on, you can also use affiliate tools/resources on your site. Many affiliate programs offer great articles, audios, and downloads to help you promote their products. If they are complimentary to your site, use them! A good example of resources that are ready-to-go is found in my affiliate program. Join me at: http://www.CindysAffiliates.com.  You don’t have to be a lone-ranger. There are lots of options for content to use on your site.

7. Build a great site. Remember that your site will grow for years to come. Keep building! Keep your content fresh and alive. The best way is to take time in solitude to brainstorm, develop your message, and pour your heart out into your writing, audios, and videos. Take that time! Pour your heart out! Make your site a place of ministry. You won’t be there immediately, but I promise that in 6 months you will look back and be so proud of your hard work.

Happy blogging!

Need more help?

Check out these great shows (and others!!) on blogging that have been featured on my Writer’s Radio Show:

Blogging and Podcasting

Mailbag: Websites, Blogs, and MORE!

Let’s Talk about Blogging

Does it always seem like you are under the gun to get things done?  Time seems to get away from you and you don’t know why.  Maybe what you need is a way to effectively manage your time.

Time management is an age-old problem.  Remember Wimpy in the old Popeye cartoons?  He’d pay on Tuesday for a hamburger today.  Why not pay now?  Procrastination is the enemy of all who try to manage their time.  If you have been bitten by the procrastination bug, it’s time to take an antidote.

Time management issues can be dealt with in three stages:  planning, tracking and assessing.  Just like with other issues in life, the best way to handle them is head on, before the problem gets to be too big for us to even want to look at it.

1.  Planning – Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.  We’ve all heard it and it’s true for the most part.  You have to have somewhere to start or you’ll spend half of your day deciding what to do.  Planning begins with the end – deadlines.  Know how much time you have for each task you have to accomplish.  Within that timeline, you can break down the larger goal into more manageable pieces. 

This method is less of a drain on your resources and your brain.  Use a planning tool like a calendar.  The calendar, preferably a computerized one, needs to have the capability of looking at a several views:  daily, weekly, monthly and yearly.  Use the calendar to map out work and personal tasks so that nothing gets overlooked.

2.  Tracking – How are you using your time?  Use tracking software to monitor how much time is spent on business projects and how much is devoted to each project.  Tracking lets you see where time is being lost.  Maybe it takes too long to do the research for a project or the final organization of it.

If your desk is unorganized, you could be losing what amounts to hours just trying to find what you need.  Time tracking software allows you to create categories for the way that you spend your time so you can easily follow.  If you don’t want to make that investment, create a time tracking spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel to prioritize tasks each day and track the time you work on them.

3.  Assessing – So, where did the time go?  Are you spending more time on minimum priority projects and less time on high priority ones, or is it vice versa?  Take a look at where you are developing black holes of lost time.  On your logs, choose a place for comments about what exactly you did during the time spent on each category during the day.  If writing up a proposal is supposed to take two hours but it is taking you four, what is being missed?

It is easy for time to escape us.  For a business, time is money that you are losing.  Re-evaluate how you spend your time and tighten up on projects that are taking too long.

Why do you procrastinate?  There are several reasons and some might surprise you.  Fear of failure is one reason.  No one wants to be make mistakes but they are a part of life and they do happen to everyone.

Fear of success is also a reason why you might procrastinate.  Here is the rationale:  If you succeed you will be expected to do so all the time.  The pressure alone can stop your work.

Stress causes procrastination, too.  It is easier to deal with a problem by hiding and pretending it will go away than meeting it head on.  The problem is that the day you are ready to deal with it never comes.

Use the following tips to stop procrastination from hindering your work.

1.  Make a list. Use dashes instead of numbers so the items on the list aren’t ranked in any particular order.  Add deadlines so that you can prioritize the list.  As you finish a task on the list, cross it off with a colorful pen.  Every time you look at the list you will get a sense of accomplishment.

2.  Set aside time for other tasks. All work and no play, as they say.  Sometimes when you work, you’ll notice your mind thinking about taking a break and doing something else.  We’ve all done it.  Avoid those breaks in productivity by scheduling time to get away and take a break.  Knowing that you will get a break makes you want to stay focused on your work until that time.

3.  Don’t overload your schedule. If you have too much to do in a small span of time, procrastination will surely creep in.  No one wants to slack off at work, but biting off only as much as you can chew is not the same thing.  You are more productive when you can manage your tasks instead of drowning in them and missing all of your deadlines.

4.  Find coping mechanisms. Stress can lead to procrastination.  Deal with the stress before it affects your work.  Learn breathing techniques; take an exercise class; chant a mantra.  Whatever will relax you can also keep you working.

5.  Stay organized. A desk piled with papers, folders, and sticky notes is not what you want to see every morning you walk into the office.  Keep your desk neat and everything where you can find it when you need it.  Organization stops you from abandoning the task at hand because of a misplaced file.

Procrastination is hard to beat because it comes from within us.  Use the above tips to regain your level of productivity in the workplace.

For many of us, nothing is more simple or instinctive than calling someone up to chat.  While we may want to keep it professional, there is a good chance that we will spend a lot longer on the phone than we thought we would, and before we know it, the day has sped by and our efficiency is shot. The work we intended (our intentions are always good in the beginning aren’t they?) to get done is being put off until later.  Have you ever experienced this?  This may be a sign that you need to think about your phone use and how it is affecting the bottom line in your business.

There are many tell tale signs that your phone calls are distracting you from your real work.  One way to determine just how much affect phone usage has on the productivity of your business is to time your phone calls.  How long are you spending on the phone?  Keep in mind that when you get on the phone, you are breaking up your work. Once you finish the call and head back to the task at hand, time is also spent refocusing on what you were doing prior to the phone call.  Put together all the time that is devoted to your phone calls during the course of the day, from getting the number, to talking on the phone, to getting back to work.  The time that you spend “on the phone” just might surprise you.

Next, think about how often you actually take calls.  Do you feel as though the number of calls that you are taking detracts from your ability to work, or do you feel as though it contributes?  You may find that other phones ringing is enough to distract you, or that if the phone stays silent for too long that you get nervous or antsy.  Any of these symptoms might be a sign that you need to form a plan to get out of this productivity killing dilemma.

All hope is not lost however, even if you live with your phone what seems like attached at your ear. In order to combat the time wasting telephone and start making your phone calls and in turn your other tasks productive for your business, try putting this practice into place.

Begin by setting up a rough call time limit based on your average call time. You will need to find out just how much time you spend on the phone using the steps mentioned above beforehand.

Next, make sure that you know what topics need to be discussed before you call anyone.  This is an important way to make sure that your call is not out of control and lasting longer than it should. This step alone will make planning your time better and get more done during your work time.

Although it’s not always easy to determine when someone else will call, you can implement these same strategies for calls you receive. Screening calls will also help reduce or even diminish wasted talk time. Remember that your time is valuable and your business is important, so don’t let the telephone distract you anymore than you have to.

Dear friend, this year is the year of fullness. I have committed to make this year a year of commitment, accomplishment, and productivity. Want to make this year the very best ever too? Let’s find some keys to productivity. Let’s dig in and get moving strong. Ready? Well, today let’s look at one of my biggest keys to productivity…

Take time to write EVERYTHING down!

Talk about a key to productivity! If there were one thing that I really believe makes the difference in my own productivity, it is this one discipline. I know, I know what you may be thinking…

“But, Cindy, I write things down and that is as far as they go.”

or

“I write things down, but then I can’t find it again.”

or

“I get too overwhelmed when I see ALL that needs to be done.”

Oh! You are going to love this, beloved! Let me take you by the hand and show you how to make this work for you. It is soooo important. You see there are some secrets that productive people have. Want a few?

1. They have ONE PLACE to write things down. Now, this does not mean that it you will have only one place forever and ever. Let me give you an example from how this looks for me. I always have my “Little Black Book” in my purse. No, not for phone numbers of old beaus–I am married to the ULTIMATE beau!   Rather, I invest in one small notebook that is small enough to carry everywhere I go, yet big enough to hold my goals, lists of steps to reach those goals, brainstorms, etc. This is SO IMPORTANT! Invest in ONE notebook as YOUR “brain” for this year.

2. They take time to pull aside and “brain-dump.” Yes, you read correctly. Want a secret to productivity? This one will make sense as you pull it all together. Yes, dump your brain regularly. Actually, take some time to dump out everything in your brain now–all of those things that need to be done, all of those things you wish for, all of those things that you want to do, but cannot find time to do. Dump it all into your “little black book.” As little things come across your mind, dump them. That will be your “place” for every idea, hope, dream, goal, to-do, and wish to all be dumped off of your brain and “kept” for you. Wondering why this is a secret to productivity? Glad you asked! The leading hindrance for most people is the stress of having to remember or not forget details. This distracts. This takes the focus from what you need to be doing. Actually, this contributes to forgetting what needs to be done in the task you are doing at the moment, causing things to take longer than they should. Not to mention, we are much, much less likely to ever do things that float in our head as well-wishes. Instead, dump it all in a safe place–your very own “Little Black Book.”

3. They plan. They plan yearly, monthly, weekly, and daily. You probably know this. However, do you know how to make it work? This is an essential!  Here is how I do it.

Every year, I plan a nice Mommy Getaway to really evaluate and plan out the next year. I cannot express how much of a difference this makes for me. I am not talking about putting every day on the calendar. I am talking about sketching out the events of the year and planning my projects for my home, business, family, and myself. I PENCIL in my yearly plans. I also spend time brain-dumping anything that may be floating in my brain. I love this time. It helps to give me a grasp on my year and get in gear.

Of course, this is not enough. Each month, I pull back for an afternoon or weekend to plan out my month. I go back to my yearly plan and pray over what REALLY needs to be on my calendar. Once the final projects and events are chosen, I brainstorm all that needs to be done (all of the things to do) for that project to be completed. Now, do note that because I have “my place” for brainstorming, my little black book, I can brainstorm as things come to mind all along the way. This makes that monthly planning very easy.

Another thing that helps me along the way are my checklists for common projects–like all of the things to do to finish a book or an audio set or prepare a seminar. I have done those things so many times that I have developed checklists so I remember each step that needs to be done to get everything ready. Same thing for my holiday meals or other home projects. Talk about a time saver. Well, wondering what you do with those? I take those and put them on my monthly calendar at a good pace to get things done incrementally.

Each week I make sure that everything is done for the week before and take a good look at what will be done the following week. If I need any supplies, I pick them up over the weekend so I am ready to go each day-nothing can mess up your schedule like missing what you really need to get things done.

Finally, every day, I plan the night before. I end each day going over my daily list of things to do. Any of the the tasks that did not get done for the day are moved to the following day’s list. I also plan in the next steps and make sure that everything is ready to go when I wake up. I get SO much more done when I have a clear picture of all that needs to be done before the day begins. Want a key to productivity? PLAN!

4. Work your plan! Finally, want to know the difference between writing things down, having the perfect plans, and getting things done? This is it! Productive people work their plans! This means that we don’t just write things down. But, we also have a plan for working the plan. This is the bottom line that determines whether we are productive or not. So, how on earth do you do this one? A few quick tips:

–>  Keep your planner WITH YOU! Keep it out and keep it with you. I have a small daytimer that I can carry with me all of the time. All of my important information is WITH ME all the time.

–>  Set up your planner to work with YOUR LIFE. My daily things to do probably look very, very different from yours. What I need in my binder is different today than last year. One key that really made a big difference for me was when I finally set up my binder with forms that *I* needed. In fact, that is the story behind our Make Your Own Brain-in-a-Binder that I developed for my own planner. I always buy a nice binder and throw out anything that does not work with my life. Then, I print out pages that help me to put all of the things I need in one place. I use my planner all day long every single day. It goes everywhere with me. The key was in setting up my planner to work with MY life and all of the things that I do each and every day.

–>  USE IT! Nothing helps me more than having my binder out first thing in the morning over my Quiet Time (to pray over my day)…sitting out in the family room all day…going back over all of the things to do all throughout the day (after each task)…going back over my day as I wrap up the evening…AND most of all, planning the next day right before I go to bed so everything is ready to get going the next day. USE that planner. Watch to see the difference!

Yes! Write things down. Make that time. It will make a HUGE difference in your productivity. It will help you to get a plan for reaching for those dreams.

So, what do you think?

Ready to make this year the very best ever? Want to make this year the most productive year ever? Why not take time today to write everything down? Why not begin today to put those dreams on your to-do list, bit-by-bit, day-by-day?

Have you tuned into our NEW Writer’s Radio Show? We are rolling now! Join us at Blog Talk Radio each and every week for our new shows. You will be fired, inspired, encouraged, and equipped. Tune in live OR download our shows to listen at your convenience. Tune in here!

Oh! I TOTALLY relate! In fact, the past few months, my heart-cry has been to stay focused. Everywhere I have turned, I have heard messages on staying focused…saw articles on being focused…and talked with my friends about being focused. As a result, I have found a few great secrets that have really helped me to stay focused on the most important things in my life and get more done at the same time. Want to know those secrets? Well, let’s dig in…

BEGIN EACH DAY WITH A QUIET TIME…

I know what you just thought…”BUT! Cindy, that gets me off track for the day!”  Oh! Beloved, nothing can help to focus on the REAL plan for the day…the best opportunities…the most important. Actually, on those days that I am very, very tempted to skimp on my Quiet Time, I actually find that I am better prepared for the day that bombards me just moments later. Maybe it is the fresh perspective. Maybe it is renewal of my heart and mind. Maybe it is slowing down to remember to choose the best in everything for that day. Whatever, I never lose by taking time to let God fill my cup first thing each day. Want a great secret to staying focused this year? Begin each day with the best tool for getting focused–a Daily Quiet Time.

Make it easy!

Begin with Daily Bible Reading. Begin with just reading 5 minutes…or in 10 you can usually read through the Bible in a Year using any program! JUST TEN MINUTES A DAY!!

Choose a plan–one that will get you in the Word and NOT frustrate you. And…while you are choosing, choose a new Bible. Each year I choose a different version for Daily Bible Reading. Talk about a HUGE difference! I have been a Christian for 34 years. One of my frustrations (now this is being honest) with Daily Bible Reading is that I found myself skipping over certain passages that I *THOUGHT* I knew. Oh! Struggle with that too? Well, why not try a new version this year? It will make words jump out and seize you! It will make those stories come alive! Last year, I chose to read through THE MESSAGE version of the Bible. It was SUPER! It made such a difference in making God’s Word come alive that I decided to choose another version for my Daily Bible Reading this year. Just begin! Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a day. Instead just dig in and let God talk to you. HE WILL!

As you begin with your Daily Bible Reading, keep a journal close by. Each day, jot down your favorite verse from the day in your journal. I love that this one discipline helps me to stay focused and tuned in for the study…but it does more… I am amazed that almost every day someone comes across my path who needs the Words that God gives me during my Quiet Times. Give it a try! The Word will stick to your brain and be on the tip of your tongue. Plus, it will keep you focused each day on the most important things! Give it a try!

Finally, during your quiet time, read the Bible, copy a verse that jumps out at you, and take some time to just pour out your heart to God and listen to Him before jumping into your day. He wants for you to come to Him and pour out your heart. He doesn’t want for you to walk through your journey by yourself. He delights in being there with you communing with you along the way. Begin each day with some time with Him…you will be amazed at how much more you will accomplish and how focused you will be each day!

WRITE IT ALL DOWN…

Another secret! Actually, this one needs to become a lifestyle thing. Let me explain! Several years ago, I began the New Year (2006) with a bit of frustration. I had so many dreams…so many desires…so many goals…so many to-do’s. In fact, I had had those dreams,desires, goals, to-do’s for many years. Each year, I would dreamily resolve to “go for it” yet again. And…again the next year. Know what I mean???

Well, 2006 was a year of change for me. Looking back, this was one single factor that really made the difference! This has made a world of difference for me every year since then. Want my secret?

I took some time during the last week of December 2005 to just brainstorm anything and everything that I really wanted to do and accomplish. Oh! You should see the poor journal that housed those dreams, desires, goals, and to-do’s! Such a treasure as I look back and see all of the amazing things that were DONE as a result of just writing it all down and then working it!

I just kicked back and spent the time to get everything out of my brain and into the journal. When I woke up in the middle of the night and something was on my brain, I got up and wrote it down. I kept the journal close for the whole week. I wrote out everything–the little things that I just could not find time to get wrapped up…the projects that seemed to never fit into my schedule…the business goals that I had…the financial goals (including how much money I owed on my debts–remember 2006 was my attack year on my debts and I ended the year with ALL of them paid off!!! WOoohooo!)…the dreams that just seemed a bit out of reach.

I wrote down everything that came across my mind.  I compiled them in the journal as to-do lists for different areas of life–the financial page listed each bill I owed with the amount I owed. For my writing goals, I listed books I wanted to finish and project ideas that were on my heart. I even wrote out my dreams for an online radio show–YEP! That far-fetched dream became reality as I began Mom-to-Mom Radio Show in January of 2006. Only a dream. Just needed focus!

Want to know the fun part about this? I reached ALL of my dreams, desires, goals, and to-do’s that I wrote down in January by May. Yes, you read that correctly–BY MAY!! I had to sit down and begin a new journal then with the same format, except I was much more bold in my dreams, desires, goals, and to-do’s. Of all of the years of my life, 2006 was record-breaking! As a family, we reached for greater things and grasped onto them! We dared to go for all of the “impossible” things with focus and determination. It made all of the difference in the world to have it all written down. To mark off each accomplishment was priceless! Yep! This was another secret for staying focused.

Since then, this has become a major part of my life. I saw such a change in my personal productivity that I made this a lifestyle. I regularly pull back for a getaway to really go over my “little black book” and see what has been done, what is yet to be done, and add more dreams and desires to the list. It makes a world of difference for me. But, that is not all, I also take that notebook out each month and each week to dig out any projects that need to be written into my calendar. Those things to do are part of my weekly things to do. Now, they are no longer wishes or dreams, but they are books, projects, and accomplishments that are my HISTORY.

Want that? Why not try it for your New Year and see how it works for you? I think you will love it!

USE A DAILY TO-DO LIST…

A few years ago, I read a book with my children for a homeschool unit study we pursued during the last four years of my son’s school years. I know, I know. It was a study that took on a life of its own. It began with a simple biography about a great businessman. We continued through as many biographies as we could find. We STILL pursue these studies even though my son graduated almost 3 years ago!

What’s the point? Oh! This is a good one!

We read one book about Mary Kay. You always learn so much when digging into the lives of others. One of the life-changing things that I learned from her life was from one thing that she attributed to her success–her daily to-do list. Daily, she kept a list of 5 things to do for the day. Each day the list changed. She wouldn’t list the impossible. She just plugged away each day on 5 vital things for THAT DAY.

I pondered that for a while. I knew that my biggest struggle was having bigger plans than I have hours to work on them. I decided to pray for my daily “5 things” for the day each and every day.

Talk about a great secret for getting and staying focused!

First, it keeps us from going day-after-day never getting “anything” done. You know that feeling? It comes from a lack of purpose and direction. Keeping a journal with all of the stuff on your heart for the year is great. Then, we can look at our daily to-do’s and add those other things into that list of five things. I try to add ONE THING per day from my journal, even if it is a little thing. Of course, there are days that I have to be realistic and limit myself to the demands of the day. I am OK with that when I have hope that I will not put off the heartbeats for years to come. Adding them into my “5 things” regularly helps. Also, on those days that I am blank or that I happen to have some extra time to myself, I go through my journal and work through some of the simple tasks that I can attack. It worked great this year!

Oh! On those days that I have 25 things to choose from…you know that those days pop up constantly, don’t you?…Well, on those days, I write all of them down on a Post-it Note. As I look at my day, I jot down my top five essentials for the day from that list. If things go better than planned, I always have the others to keep on working on. But, this helps me to be sure that I begin plugging away on the things that need to get done to finish up things as soon as I can. It clears my brain and keeps me focused on working my plan. It helps me to accomplish much each day. And…keeps me focused all year long. I don’t get overwhelmed as easily. I don’t miss big things or let big things pile up any more. Give it a try! This year will be your best year yet!

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GREAT (FOCUSED) PEOPLE…

I don’t know about you, but I really grasp for more in life when I have a big dose of encouragement and inspiration. Nothing fires me up more than people who are focused on going for all that God has in store for them. I just LOVE their passion for success! They challenge me to keep growing, keep moving, keep grasping for my dreams. They inspire me to step out there and trust God for those impossible things that intimidate me. They keep my brain turning and fresh. They spur me to reach for the very, very best!

Do I sound blessed? Did you just “wish” you had others like this? Have you written yourself off?

Oh! Beloved! I am not advocating that you scrap your friends and family.   Rather, I want to encourage you to ask the Lord to show you those that can step into the gap there. Ask God to show you opportunities this year to surround yourself with great people.

Years ago, one of my friends told me that great people are only as great as those that they surround themselves with. Talk about inspiring me! Well, she went one step forward…she said that a mediocre person could become great by surrounding themselves with the very best people in all areas of their lives. I have pondered that since she said it. It is SO true!

I have endeavored to surround myself with great people. They are everywhere! I am not special. You have them around you too.

We live in a complicated culture. Whereas, life is not simple like the lifestyle our grandparents had where they could learn from others while sitting on the front porch sipping tea and chatting (yep, I am from the South! WINK), they also did not have access to so much at their fingertips. We have the internet. We have books, audios and media.

Take time to get to know others. Take time to learn from others. You would probably be surprised at what is deep inside of those surrounding you.

I want to know the greatness hidden inside of those surrounding me. Everyone has something great in there. Digging into their greatness instills greatness in me…AND challenges them to reach for more greatness. It makes the most of our time together.

Of course, those people are the ones that I am around “in person” in my life. But, I also have some choices with my free time. I can surround myself with great people through books…online classes…audios…and other methods of study. I plug into great people regularly who are reaching for the best. They inspire me. They fire me up! They keep me growing!

Wanta get and stay focused? Those that surround you can make or break you! Surround yourself with focused people!

GET RID OF ALL HINDRANCES…

Anybody sitting there and thinking of all of the reasons that you cannot do ONE THING I have written…

…You have little ones that constantly interrupt your quiet times?
…You don’t have TIME for a quiet time?
…You have too much to do each day to write down your list in a journal?
…You don’t have any money for a journal–it IS after Christmas???
…Your day is so full of things wrapped around the children that you could never plan for “5 to-do’s” each day?
…Those around you are YOUR problem!

Oh! Beloved! I DO understand! And…this is YOUR year!

Take a peek at Hebrews 12: 1-2 (I LOVE IT in The Message)…

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!

This passage really fires me up! It was one of my key verses. It follows the chapter reminding us of the great men and women of faith throughout Scripture. Then, continues in this passage telling us what it is all there for…to remind us to lay aside every encumbrance, the sin that so easily entangles us, get busy running the race, staying focused on Jesus and HOW HE ran the race. It is SO good!!

It doesn’t tell us that our circumstances will be ideal. It doesn’t tell us that everyone around us will “get it” and support us or get on board with us. It doesn’t tell us to change those around us. It simply reminds us to get focused on Jesus and get rid of all of the hindrances so we can run the race faithfully!

I have no idea what you will be facing this year. My year last year was not perfect. I had some very, very tough times from time-to-time. I had times that I got tired and weary along the way. I had times that everything I touched seemed to crash. However, a big secret to grasping onto all of the things that God had in store for me was to get rid of all of the hindrances and run the race faithfully. God didn’t demand that I do everything perfect, rather He simply wanted for me to keeping my eyes on Jesus while I faced all of the tough stuff. To stay focused!

I had to look past the impossibilities. I had to lay aside every hindrance and every encumbrance. I had to repent of my sins, confessing them so I could be healed and run the race with strength and stamina–sin zaps our strength and stamina. I had to drop my excuses–yep, that is what they were! I had to let go of everything that had been hindering me. Want to stay focused? Get rid of all of the hindrances today! You have a great year ahead!

READY?

On your Mark…Get Set…

We have a great year ahead! Are you ready to go for it? Are you tired of setting resolutions and fizzle on January 2nd? Are you sick of being where you are? Are you ready to go for those dreams? Do you want to have the best year yet?

Oh! Try out my secrets! Stay focused! Make 2009 your best year yet!

Yes! But, relax! You are probably already on your way if you are even thinking about writing! These are the things that writers “happen” to “just do” in their everyday lives. Let’s dig in and see how you are doing…

Read…Read…Read

The very best writers are the most voracious readers. Give them a book and a quiet nook to read and you have just sent them to heaven on earth. Reading supplies ideas that get the mind thinking, fresh perspective, and even train the writing style of those who read. In studies, most writers tend to read at every opportunity, but those who are the most successful writers have a discipline of reading for at least 2 hours per day.

So, want to be a writer? Read.

Keep an Idea Notebook (With YOU!)

You may prefer a pretty journal or a spiral notebook or you may be a fellow binder queen, loving the versatility of 3-ring binders. Whatever your preference, keep an Idea Notebook. Fill it with your brainstorms… outlines… ideas…rough drafts. Keep it with you. Work in it during your free time along the way. This ONE key will help you to develop your writing into all it can be, make you the most productive, and keep you organized along the way.

Write EVERY Day!

Yep! You will find this counsel in every writer’s manual and in every class for writers. Does it work? Absolutely! I am not talking about writing a fresh manuscript or article each day. There are SO many ways that you can keep your skills fresh and develop them into greater skills.

For example, I recommend copying great quotes each day. As you read (did I mention to read every day? ), you will come across neat “gems” in your reading that beg for you to remember them. You know those quotes. Those that make you pause and soak them in. Begin a journal that is specifically set aside for copying those quotes. The fruit of this discipline can never be underestimated. It is not just for our budding young writers, it is a life discipline for those that really want to be all that they can be. In fact, in Deuteronomy 17:18-20, God commanded that as the kings sat on their throne, they copied the books of Law into a book that they could keep with them. Even God, Himself, keeps quotes in a book—see Malachi where He talks about how precious it is for Him to listen to His saints as they talk among themselves about Him. He loves what they say so much that He keeps a copy of those “gems” in HIS Book of Remembrance. HOOT! And…isn’t God the most precious writer of all times? This may sound like an easy way to write every day, but it is a discipline that writers have had all throughout time. It will make a difference in your writing that will be immeasurable!

Also, try your hand at writing email or blogging (See my blogs at http://www.CindysDesktop.com and http://www.Writers-Nook.com ) or even beginning your own message board. You may want to join email discussion lists in areas of your interest or begin your own ezine. These are all wonderful ways that I keep myself writing every day, even when I am not working on a specific project. They make me THINK and keep my ideas organized. In fact, many times the very discussions or emails that I have written become articles or tip sheets later on. It is a fantastic way to write every day!

Of course, another way is to write bit-by-bit on your projects. Did you know that if you just write ONE chapter in a book a week, you will finish the typical book in only 10 weeks? In a year, you could finish 5 books. It just takes bit-by-bit, consistent effort. You can do it! Just write every day.

Constantly Learn!

Yep! All great writers have a discipline to learn something new every day. Reading is a part of that, but not the whole. We are surrounded with information, ideas, and a need to “DO.” We should all be constantly learning for our entire lives. All writers who are prolific and successful are constantly learning. They are constantly growing. They are constantly developing as a person.

In addition, they constantly learn about the art of writing. A writer never completely “arrives” at perfection. Writers must constantly work on the art of writing. Writing today is nothing like yesterday’s writing and tomorrow’s writing will not be like today’s writing. It is constantly growing. Constantly changing. And…the writing is not the only area that changes. A writer MUST stay abreast of the writing business. To be a writer is to be IN BUSINESS. Even the sporadic writer must have keen business sense or they will never make it—either someone will take advantage of them or they will never be taken seriously in the business (aka—get jobs!).

That is not all. The writer of our day must learn marketing, publishing, selling, editing. No one can do these things for you. In fact, many writers fail because they wait for someone else to fund their work (publish their work) or promote their work. No one else can promote YOU like YOU can! No one else is going to take that time to take care of you—well, unless you paid them a lot of money to do so on a constant basis. You can do this yourself. Even if you had a “publisher” that you were working for, they are going to want YOU to do this in your sphere. One of the “selling” factors of a writer is whether that writer will “sell” books for the publisher. They want to know that the writer has bookings to promote the books, a market for selling their books, and the ability to get the books that are published into the hands of the buyers. In short, they want to invest money that is a “sure-thing” when they print books. YOU CAN DO THIS YOURSELF! Learn the business! Commit to do it! Stay abreast of all of the changes. Your blessings will be immeasurable.

Finally, learn the technology. Technology constantly changes. A writer who wants to succeed needs to be in the mode of learning “the next thing” on a continual basis. It really pays off to learn web design and computer skills. Today, there is so much opportunity available for the professional writer just because of desktop publishing. Each DAY I am amazed at the things that you can do to take your writing to the next level. The biggest hindrance is getting comfortable in what you do. A writer that wants to do all that God has called them to do, needs to be constantly learning the new things that are out there within their reach! Never depend on others to do that for you. It will only stunt your growth now and for years to come. Dig in and learn the technology YOURSELF.

So…Want to Be a Writer???

These are just a few of the disciplines of writers, but some that really make a difference. Want to write? Develop the disciplines of a successful writer. You will find success and be off to a good start!

First things first – start your day by getting yourself ready for “work.” Take a shower, relax with that extra cup of coffee, work the crossword in the newspaper, tidy up the house, drop the kids off at school. Allow yourself time to stop and smell the flowers before plunging in. 

Some of us like to start slowly. For others, immediately heading to the computer, coffee mug in hand and starting in right away, is best. There are no right or wrong answers here. Whatever works best for you is the right way. Doing things your way is how you will begin setting up your day for work at home success. 

The one thing you should savor is the thirty second commute to work. If you previously worked outside the home, any time spent on getting to and from work is now newfound time. This found time is yours. Use it as your gift to yourself to do with as you wish.  

Most people are creatures of habit. Habit can be a wonderful thing because it allows us to get in our comfort zone without consciously expending any effort in doing so. As a work at home mom, creating good habits for yourself will allow you to accomplish a lot more in a limited amount of time. Put your day on auto pilot as much as possible. 

You will no doubt want to be creative in some aspects of your home business. But in general, try to maintain a similar schedule from day to day. That way you won’t waste time with changes that may not be productive. Leave the creativity for times spent with your family or friends, or for when you are working on an improvement in your home business.

There is nothing quite as satisfying as the sense of accomplishment that comes from successfully completing tasks. To ensure that this happens, make a to-do list each day. Some people make their list at the end of a work day for the next day, while others prefer to make their list in the morning. In either case, it’s a good idea to prioritize the items on your list based on importance. 

Before plunging into the first item on the list, take a few moments to check over the list and mentally decide how much time will be required for each item. As you complete an item, be sure to cross it off. There’s where that sense of fulfillment comes in. 

Now that your day is set up for success, you are ready to face whatever challenges or frustrations may come along. Just don’t forget to enjoy the successes, no matter how big or small, along the way.

WRITE IT ALL DOWN!

Another one of our secrets to success here in our home! Actually, this one needs to become a lifestyle thing. Let me explain!

The past few years have been very, very different for me. I have had a plan for getting things done. It has worked!

I began 2006 with a bit of frustration. I had so many dreams…so many desires…so many goals…so many to-do’s. In fact, I had had those dreams,desires, goals, to-do’s for many years. Each year, I would dreamily resolve to “go for it” yet again. And…again the next year. Know what I mean???

Well, 2006 was a year of change for me. Looking back, this was one single factor that really made the difference!

I took some time during the last week of December 2005 to just brainstorm anything and everything that I really wanted to do and accomplish. Oh! You should see the poor journal that housed those dreams, desires, goals, and to-do’s! Such a treasure as I walk into a new year! I just kicked back and spent the time to get everything out of my brain and into the journal. When I woke up in the middle of the night and something was on my brain, I got up and wrote it down. As I ran errands and thought my GREAT thoughts, I didn’t lose them. I wrote them down in my little journal. I kept the journal close for the whole week.

I wrote out everything–the little things that I just could not find time to get wrapped up…the projects that seemed to never fit into my schedule…the business goals that I had…the financial goals (including how much money I owed on my debts–remember 2006 was my attack year on my debts and I ended the year with ALL of them paid off!!! WOoohooo!)…the dreams that just seemed a bit out of reach.

I wrote down everything that came across my mind. I compiled them in the journal as “to-do” lists for different areas of life–the financial page listed each bill I owed with the amount I owed. For my writing goals, I listed books I wanted to finish and project ideas that were on my heart. I even wrote out my dreams for an online radio show–YEP! That far-fetched dream became reality as I began Mom-to-Mom Radio Show in January of 2006. Only a dream. Just needed focus!

Want to know the fun part about this? I reached ALL of my dreams, desires, goals, and to-do’s that I wrote down in January BY MAY!! I had to sit down and begin a new journal then with the same format, except I was much more bold in my dreams, desires, goals, and to-do’s. Of all of the years of my life, 2006 was record-breaking! Since then, I have not gone back! I have made this a discipline in my life. In fact, I just spent the weekend away a few weeks ago going through my old “little black book” transferring the few things left over into my new “little black book.” I brainstormed. I brain dumped. Now, I am off and going strong again. More dreams. More desires. More goals. More to-do’s. More focus!

The past three years have been our very best ever for me and for my entire family. We have dared to reach for bigger things than we could have ever imagined just 3 years ago. As a family, we reached for greater things and grasped onto them! We dared to go for all of the “impossible” things with focus and determination. It made all of the difference in the world to have it all written down. To mark off each accomplishment was priceless!

Yep! This was another secret for staying focused. Why not try it today? The year is still young! Just give it a try and see how it works. Watch things begin changing!

I know, I know.

It was a study that took on a life of its own. It began with a simple biography about a great businessman. We continued through as many biographies as we could find. We STILL pursue these studies even though my son graduated almost 4 years ago!

What’s the point? Oh! This is a good one!

We read one book about Mary Kay. You always learn so much when digging into the lives of others. One of the life-changing things that I learned from her life was from one thing that she attributed to her success–her daily to-do list. Daily, she kept a list of 5 things to do for the day. Each day the list changed. She wouldn’t list the impossible. She just plugged away each day on 5 vital things.

I pondered that for a while. I knew that my biggest struggle was having bigger plans than I have hours to work on them. I decided to pray for my daily “5 things” for the day. I get everything dumped into my “Little Black Book.” I brainstorm and break things down until they are in bite-size pieces that can be done in just minutes. Then, I go through and pick the things that need to be done first. I make them reasonable and do-able. I add them to my daily schedule. Things get done!

Remember that saying, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time?” How do you get things done? One “to-do” at a time!

Talk about a great secret for getting and staying focused! It would even work if you had ONE thing for the day or three things for the day. The point is to not miss one day where you intentionally plan in one thing that helps you move forward. It can take 5 minutes or an hour. It is just something that helps you to move forward. It is SO essential!

First, it keeps us from going day-after-day never getting “anything” done. You know that feeling? It comes from a lack of purpose and direction. You cannot get things done if you are not clear about what needs to be done. You have to know which way to go or you will probably sit still.

Also, it clarifies everything. It clears your brain and keeps you focused on how you will get things done. You can clearly see a step that you can do. It is clear. It is doable. That clarifies everything!

Keeping a journal with all of the stuff on your heart for the year is great–it is one of my biggest secrets to getting LOTS done. But, I hear all of the time from friends who share with me that writing down the ideas and brain-dumping is where they stopped. They get so frustrated because they cannot fit things into their life. Days go by. Weeks go by. Months go by. Years go by. Still in debt. No books written. House is still a mess. On and on. Their journal becomes a nag. It condemns them.

It can be frustrating if you do not have a plan for getting all of that in motion. It can be so frustrating that you either think that it is impossible or that YOU are the only one who cannot get things done. There is nothing worse than having lots of goals, dreams, and desires, but seeing them SIT there in your little black book for years and years without a plan to make them happen.

The answer? “To-Do” lists, of course!

Then, we can look at our daily schedule and add into our daily schedule our 5 things for the day or, if you are just getting started, just one thing “to-do” to work toward our goal or our project. In fact, maybe this might be key for some of you. 5 things look completely overwhelming to you? Just choose one thing to do each day.

So, what ONE THING can you do TODAY? One thing can make a difference! We can all fit ONE THING into our daily schedule.

Now, I am not saying that your ONE THING should be “clean the house” or “write a book.” NOT! That can be a big problem!

Having a thing to do that is made up of many, many other things/tasks is not brainstormed and broken down enough. To just say, “Clean the house” as your thing “to-do” almost always insures that it will go from day-to-day undone. at minimum, you will never “feel” like you are getting anything accomplished. That because it is not broken down into things “to do” that you can manage and SEE each day as you can fit them into your day.

“Cleaning the house” or “Writing a book” are GOALS or PROJECTS. Those need to be broken down into small, small tasks that you can do. For example, if you want to write a book, the first thing you will need is your topic. So, how about taking 20 minutes today to brainstorm for your topic–write down all of the ideas for what you would like to write about. Just dump it all down on a page in your journal. Want to clean your house? Same thing. Brainstorm out all that needs to be done. Get them out of your brain and on paper (preferably into an Idea Notebook so you don’t LOSE your ideas!!).

Feel good? YES! That is a simple thing to do. It is part of the process. It is a very VITAL part of the process. That will get you moving forward and out of your rut. That will give you tasks that CAN fit into even YOUR day!

Now, quick note! You may not know all of the things that you need to do in order to reach your goals. That is where you get a mentor, a coach. That is where you invest in a book or a class to teach you how. I am not saying to hit EVERYTHING on your life-list. I am saying focus on ONE THING. Give it your entire focus as you get down the process. Learn what needs to be done to make it happen. Get busy. (Quick note! If you want to be a writer, I am working on a course to take you through all of the steps. I am also going to offer personal coaching for several key areas for writers. Stay tuned! It is going to be the ULTIMATE course! More on that very, very, very soon! )

After I brainstorm all that needs to be done, I try to add at least ONE THING per day from my journal into my schedule, even if it is a little thing. My personal goal is to work on 5 things per day. I try to balance those from things that I am working on for different aspects of my home and business. Of course, there are days that I have to be realistic and limit myself to the demands of the day. I am OK with that when I have hope that I will not put off the heartbeats for years to come.

Adding them into my “5 things” regularly helps. Also, on those days that I am blank or that I happen to have some extra time to myself, I go through my journal and work through some of the simple tasks that I can attack and conquer.

It works great! I get SO MUCH MORE done each day…each week…each year. Now, I am seeing those books finished that were dreams years ago. I am able to pursue those business dreams and make them a reality. We even beat debt a few years ago–same principle! We hit it bit-by-bit adding it to our list of things for the week. Lists get things done!

Oh! On those days that I have 25 things to choose from…you know that those days pop up constantly, don’t you? I am having one of those weeks this week. Well, during those times, I have a secret that may help some of you who are battling with just TOO MUCH to do–I pull out my Post-it notes. I love the Post-it notes that are around 5X7 and lined. I write my whole list on them. Then, I post the note on my daytimer. As I get things done, I mark them off and journal them in my planner on the day that I finished them.

I know what helps me the most–I NEED to mark things off and see things getting done, especially on those “25 THINGS TO DO” kinda days.

Each day, I will go through them as I plan my next day. I jot my top five for the day into my Daily Planner (I call mine my BRAIN-IN-A-BINDER ). I keep the “Post-it” on the opposite side of page (I use a planner that has the Daily To-Do’s and a Daily Appointment Schedule on the left side of the notebook and Daily Notes on the right side of the notebook. I just post my “Post-It Note” on the right side. That way it is right there in my face all day. If I get more than my BIG GOAL of 5 things completed, I mark them off and work on more. I just jot them down on the Daily To-Do list and mark them off there and on my Post It note. At the end of the day, if I have finished my big list on my Post It note, I leave it on the right side of the page. That lets me know everything on that task is done and when I finished it. Then, on to the next big project! Is this clear as mud?

Special note… I have some things that I do over and over that have a huge list of things that need to be done–set up a website, set up an online study, work on a book, write articles, etc. They once had a cute little “Post-It Note.” Since I do them over and over and over, I have set up a permanent checklist that has been tweaked into a system that make it easier to complete that project. Talk about simplifying the process!

All I have to do is print out my checklist again. Put the project name at the top of the page. And, start working on that checklist each day until that project is complete. I have those tasks broke down into very quick and easy things to do. I have worked through them so many times that they are tweaked to a perfect order and everything that I need to remember to do is included. Talk about DESTRESSING big jobs! That is how I recently sponsored the largest online homeschool convention ever. In fact, it was almost as large as the largest state homeschool conventions. I was able to do it this year with my lists from last year. Since I have it tweaked even more, next year I can hire helpers to help me get it all done! That is where we are going! Over time, using to-do lists gets easier and easier. You can do bigger and bigger projects. Plus, you CAN use your lists over and over too!

Give it a try! Take time today to brainstorm. Brainstorm until you get a nice list of do-able tasks that help you get busy on the projects that have only been on your heart until now. Then, plug them into your schedule this week.

There is nothing quite like moving forward. A daily “to-do” list will help you move forward and stay focused. Give it a try! This year will be your best year yet!

All of the greatest men and women throughout history had a season of solitude. It defined them. It grounded them. It prepared them for their call.

Want greatness? Learn the secret to greatness–solitude. Seek solitude. Embrace solitude. You will never be the same again!

Today’s audio will help you do JUST THAT! Just download and dig in. Cindy Rushton will take you by the hand and show you the key to purpose, pruning, and becoming a vessel that God can use!

Download by Mp3

Show Notes:
Talk-a-Latte Online Studies (this seminar comes from Cindy’s study, Organization 911! Help for the Messy Mom. Learn more here.)

All of the greatest men and women throughout history had a season of solitude. It defined them. It grounded them. It prepared them for their call.

Want greatness? Learn the secret to greatness–solitude. Seek solitude. Embrace solitude. You will never be the same again!

Today’s audio will help you do JUST THAT! Just download and dig in. Cindy Rushton will take you by the hand and show you the key to purpose, pruning, and becoming a vessel that God can use!

Download by Mp3

Show Notes:
Talk-a-Latte Online Studies (this seminar comes from Cindy’s study, Organization 911! Help for the Messy Mom. Learn more here.)

Hi!

Thanks for inviting us. I love what you do with your newsletter and blog. It encourages me regularly. Thanks for all you do!

This year we are celebrating two big anniversaries with our business/ministry. In the fall, we will celebrate 20 years since God called me into ministry. We also celebrate 15 years of being in business this summer! Can you believe it? We can hardly believe that the years have gone by so quickly. It is a great time to ask about our story and what the Lord has been teaching us. Thanks for the honor!

Everything began 20 years ago when I attended a Ladies’ Retreat as a nineteen-year-old newlywed. For the first time in my life, I was taught what the Bible had to say about godly womanhood. Now, I had been active in church from the time I was a baby. I never missed a church service from the time I was 2-years-old. I also grew up in a Christian home. But, these things were never specifically taught taught to me. Actually, if we are honest, these topics are not the ones that give warm fuzzies, so they are still not the most “popular” topics of many ministers and Bible teachers.

During that retreat, my whole life changed. It was not so much the retreat as it was a holy moment between me and God. In that tiny country church, I sat in prayer thanking God for teaching me His truth early in my marriage. As I sat in prayer, the rest of the world going on around me, God whispered His call to me, “Will you purpose to get to know what I have to say about womanhood?” That was a no-brainer! I was READY to learn everything that He wanted for me to learn about being a godly wife and one day a godly mother. I wanted all that God would give me in my life. The life-changing moment came when He whispered into my heart the call, “Will you teach it?” My instant question was, “WHO ME?” But…you know my answer…the rest is history!

I didn’t begin writing or begin a business that day. In fact, it is funny looking back. I thought my “job” in life would be Dental Hygiene. I loved my career. I loved my patients. I was in school training to be a hygienist and working full time on the side to get on the job training. I loved my life. It was a nice balance between my marriage and career. I never had a single thought about writing or having a business of my own. In fact, the two classes in school that I really “hated” were writing and marketing! Funny how God changes everything!

The following years were very dormant years. God blessed me with my two precious children. He took me home from my job to be a stay-at-home wife and mom. Harold finished college. And…I settled in to be a godly wife and mommy. I did not begin writing or a business at that time. It just did not cross my mind.

As the years went by, I developed a passion for encouraging other women. I simply loved being around moms. I loved Bible Studies—especially the challenge of preparing to teach them. I loved my life.

My writing began “accidentally” as I agreed to be the editor of our local Smocking Guild’s monthly newsletter. I would include neat tips and ideas for making heirloom sewing and smocking easy. This would later be the theme for all that I do today—making it easy! Many of my newsletters would feature cute ideas from my friends. I would collect the ideas and put them into print. It was a HUGE hit!

One day, my husband’s grandmother, Mamaw Alma Lee Rushton, asked me to go to the local paper to ask them to include my tips and ideas in a column (like Dear Abby—remember those?). My first response to her was, “Mamaw, I am NOT a writer!” Of course, she would not accept any excuses. She very insistently informed me that I was TO GO to the local paper and show them the newsletters.

Well, I still look back in awe, knowing that it was that one pivotal event that changed the direction of my whole life. It took someone who adored me to inspire me to get outside of my box and go for it! Yep, they DID add me as a columnist that day!

My column was an immediate success. My editor was thrilled with the response. He even told me that his mom considered me as her favorite writer.

I began writing steadily at that time. I set aside time when the children were sleeping in the morning or during their naps to regularly write. Also, at that time another thing was happening parallel to the writing—I began my first business sewing for the public. I would alternate sewing and writing when the children were asleep. It worked out nicely. Plus, the business gave me fresh ideas for my column…the column inspired me to try new things with the business. It was a super combo. I had no idea of how much I would love being in business for myself at that time. I cannot imagine life any other way now.

I continued writing and running my business for several years. Only a few months after I began my column, my articles were picked up by other newspapers and magazines. By that time, I found the most unlikely thing about myself—I was ADDICTED to writing! Writing had never been such a blast before!

The next biggie happened about a year after I began my column that I was visiting with Mamaw—we loved our girl-days! When the guys would get together, Elisabeth and I would spend the afternoon with her. She and I could not have been more kindred if I were her flesh in blood. She loved me so deeply and believed in me long before I knew what I could ever be or what I could ever achieve.

I was so excited one day that another magazine had picked me up as a columnist. I took a copy of the magazine to her—she had long before set up a neat notebook (anybody recognize something here—she was the first binder queen I knew!) that included all of the things I wrote to be published and wrote for her (letters, recipes, etc). I wanted for her to have a copy of the magazine. She was always SO exhilarated about the little things that were happening in my life. She could not have been more happy about her own accomplishments!

That Spring day will forever be etched in my mind. It was the last day that I was able to see her before her death. I don’t know if others of you have ever experienced the loss of someone so dear, but it was beyond the loss. That day she spoke her “vision” over me and my life. I still feel that what she spoke to me was a word from God. During those moments that I feel a bit overwhelmed and chaos sets in, just the memory of her conversation helps me to get back on track—that was the way she was. That day was pivotal in my whole life—especially in my calling and life purpose.

The conversation was priceless. It was more of a “charge” toward God’s calling for me. Just one thing seemed out of place in the conversation. She looked at the magazine and instantly declared, “Cindy…you have GOT to write a book!” Now, the other things she said about being a wife and mommy were a “given” for me. I was committed to those things. The “book thing” seemed a bit radical…a bit far-fetched! Yep…my comment back was very original, “Mamaw, I am NOT a writer!” My how she must look down from the heavenlies with Jesus and just laugh now that I have over 80 books and even more coming very soon!

It may seem to all of you that this is just what I do, but I had every excuse that I have ever heard about why NOT to write. Now, it is just that—excuses! There is nothing like getting beyond the excuses into the calling!

There is SO much that I could share about the process. Rather, I would love to encourage those of you who are writing, yet weary…and those of you who feel that call and have no idea how to get where you are going. I am excited for you! It is no accident that you are reading this specific interview. You CAN be a writer too! Want to know some of my secrets to getting all of it done? Tips from a prolific writer? Here are a few:

Read…Read…Read!

The very best writers are the most voracious readers! Give them a book and a quiet nook to read and you have just sent them to heaven on earth! Reading supplies ideas that get the mind thinking, fresh perspective, and even train the writing style of those who read. In studies, most writers tend to read at every opportunity, but those who are the most successful writers have a discipline of reading for at least 2 hours per day! So, want to be a writer? Read.

Keep an Idea Notebook (With YOU!)!

You may prefer a pretty journal or a spiral notebook or you may be a fellow binder queen, loving the versatility of 3-ring binders. I keep both kinds. Whatever your preference, keep an Idea Notebook. Fill it with your brainstorms… outlines…ideas…rough drafts. Keep it with you. Work in it during your free time along the way. I keep a notebook for each book that I write and each conference that I teach. I have a bunch of notebooks that I use to store my individual workshop titles—I keep them together in themes and pull them out for teaching at conferences or to use for articles or radio interviews. This is one thing that has helped me to keep track of ideas and to continuously come up with new and fresh ideas for my writing projects. This ONE key will help you to develop your writing into all it can be, make you the most productive, and keep you organized all along the way!

Write EVERY Day!

Yep! You will find this counsel in every writer’s manual and in every class for writers. Does it work? Absolutely! I am not talking about writing a fresh manuscript or article each day. There are SO many ways that you can keep your skills fresh and develop them into greater skills.

For example, I recommend copying great quotes each day. As you read (did I mention to read every day? You will come across neat “gems” in your reading that beg for you to remember them. You know those quotes. Those that make you pause and soak them in! Begin a journal that is specifically set aside for copying those quotes.

The fruit of this discipline can never be underestimated. It is not just for our budding young writers, it is a life discipline for those that really want to be all that they can be. In fact, in Deuteronomy 17:18-20, God commanded that as the kings sat on their throne, they copied the Law into a book that they could keep with them. Even God, Himself, keeps quotes in a book—see Malachi where He talks about how precious it is for Him to listen to His saints as they talk among themselves about Him. He loves what they say so much that He keeps a copy of those “gems” in HIS Book of Rememberence. HOOT! And…isn’t God the most precious writer of all times? This may sound like an easy way to write every day, but it is a discipline that writers have had all throughout time. It will make a difference in your writing that will be immeasurable!

Also, try your hand at writing email or blogging (See my blog at http://www.CindysDesktop.com or http://www.Writers-Nook.com) or even beginning your own message board. You may want to join email discussion lists in areas of your interest or begin your own ezine. These are all wonderful ways that I keep myself writing every day, even when I am not working on a specific project. They make me THINK and keep my ideas organized. In fact, many times the very discussions or emails that I have written become articles or tip sheets later on. It is a fantastic way to write every day!

Of course, another way is to write bit-by-bit on your projects. Did you know that if you just write ONE chapter in a book a week, you will finish the typical book in only 10 weeks? In a year, you could finish 5 books! It just takes bit-by-bit, consistent effort! You can do it! Just write every day!

Constantly Learn!

Yep! All great writers have a discipline to learn every day! Reading is a part of that, but not the whole. We are surrounded with information, ideas, and a need to “DO.” We should all be constantly learning for our entire lives. All writers who are prolific and successful are constantly learning. They are constantly growing. They are constantly developing as a person.

Every year I make a list of things that I want to learn, along with my yearly goals and resolutions. I carry that list with me. Sometimes it feels like it is nagging at me to get busy doing something to learn something fresh. Other times, it is a nice treat to check off the new things that I am learning or look back over all that I have learned over the year. When we keep on learning and growing, it adds a freshness to our writing. Plus, it also gives us neat new ideas for those future books and articles!

In addition, constantly learn about the art of writing. A writer never completely “arrives” at perfection. Writers must constantly work on the art of writing. Writing today is nothing like yesterday’s writing and tomorrow’s writing will not be like today’s writing. It is constantly growing. Constantly changing.

And…the writing is not the only area that changes. A writer MUST stay abreast of the writing business. To be a writer is to be IN BUSINESS. Even the sporadic writer must have keen business sense or they will never make it—either someone will take advantage of them or they will never be taken seriously in the business (aka—get jobs or sell their work!). The writer of our day must learn marketing, publishing, selling, speaking, advertising, editing. No one can do these things for you. In fact, many writers fail because they wait for someone else to fund their work (publish their work) or promote their work. No one else can promote YOU like YOU can! No one else is going to take that time to take care of you—well, unless you paid them a lot of money to do so on a constant basis! You can do this yourself. Even if you had a “publisher” that you were working for, they are going to want YOU to do this in your sphere of influence. One of the “selling” factors of a writer is whether that writer will “sell” books for the publisher. They want to know that the writer has bookings to promote the books, a market for selling their books, and the ability to get the books that are published into the hands of the buyers. In short, they want to invest money that is a “sure-thing” when they print books. YOU CAN DO THIS YOURSELF! Learn the business! Commit to do it! Stay abreast of all of the changes. Your blessings will be immeasurable!

Finally, learn the technology! Technology constantly changes. A writer who wants to succeed needs to be in the mode of learning “the next thing” on a continual basis. It really pays off to learn web design and computer skills. Today there is so much opportunity available for the professional writer just because of desktop publishing. Each DAY I am amazed at the things that you can do to take your writing to the next level. The biggest hindrance is getting comfortable in what you do. A writer that wants to do all that God has called them to do, needs to be constantly learning the new things that are out there within their reach! Want to know a few that are musts online? Here are a few:

Blogging…

Have no idea where to begin? Why not try a blog? A Blog is an informal website. You can post articles, tips, journal entries, or anything that you want. It is a wonderful way to get busy writing and develop that habit of writing. You never know—your blog material may be just the perfect material to use in your first book! You have got to give it a try–I have several reasons that I recommend this to you-

1. You can set it up for easily and quickly.
2. You can post your material yourself without a web designer.
3. You can become more familiar with web design.
4. You have a place to keep your work online!
5. You have a “place” to send people who are interested in your work.
6. You can write every day or as you can!
7. Oh! You CAN DO IT!

Get Your Own Website!

Another MUST is to get your own website. I cannot recommend highly enough that you invest in your own website. It is one of the most important things that a writer can do. It is like a “home” on the web for you! Invest in that “cyber-real estate” today! Here are some pointers that will make your website all it can be…

==> Invest today at MINIMUM in your own web address—buy YOUR NAME. If your own name is available, invest in it today—even if you are not building the website immediately. For years, I wrestled with a vision for my website. In that time, I did NOTHING! For real! When I decided that I wanted to move forward, I was blessed with some of the best advice ever from a dear friend. I was advised to set up my website with MY NAME as the web address—for real: http://www.CindyRushton.com. I felt SO awkward in doing so. It just seemed a bit self-promoting—exactly! If you are a writer, you MUST promote yourself. You have to get beyond the fears and trepidations. Think for a minute. If you wanted to find me on the web, what would you look for? I have now written almost 80 books, would my website be titled under one of them? I produce 6 ezines? Would my website be best set up under one of those? What about my business name? We have three businesses at this time and we are considering expanding into a couple of others? Which one would you look for? Do you even know their names? Yes, the most reasonable name for all I do is MY OWN NAME— http://www.CindyRushton.com. It tells who I am today…and tomorrow! And…yours will too! Invest in YOUR name as your website!

==> Create a HOME on the Web. Don’t just make it a website with information about products—I HATE THOSE! Don’t you? They give NOTHING for the reader to enjoy today or to come back for later. If they do not buy the product at that time, you lose them. Rather, make a website that is a HOME on the web! Make your website a reflection of YOU! Include your articles/poems/tip sheets. Include fresh material through an Ezine or a Blog. Set up your website with a sampling of who you are and what you love to write on. Then, you will create a successful website that makes your readers want to buy your work as it comes out in print.

Set up an E-zine!

I get tickled regularly when I read different marketing ideas online. If you have been reading much of it lately, you have probably ran across the debates over whether email marketing is going “out” or not with the huge interests in blogging and RSS feeds. The opinions are as varied as you will ever find on any other topic.

Many of you probably know that I use all of them. So, what do I think? The opportunities for marketing and ministry are abundant for today’s Christian writer. I find that each of the methods we use in our ministry/business reach a different segment of our supporters. Each segment has a preference for how they most enjoy material and how they prefer to access the material. I recommend building steadily into using many different means for sharing your message—just don’t begin something that you cannot continue. Nothing looks more unprofessional than a neglected blog (I have a couple!) or a neglected message board. If you can only choose one or two things, I recommend a blog and an e-zine. An e-zine helps to develop your message for your reader. It also helps to build a mailing list of your supporters. There are SO many other perks. Every writer should have at least one newsletter list. Get started on a theme that is very natural and easy for you. Find a topic in which you can easily have fresh new material on a regular basis. Set up a schedule that works for you. Then, spread the word!

Develop Your Mailing List…

One last thing! Don’t lose those that come by your website. Be sure to set up a form for capturing their addresses. Make it easy to use. Offer them something for free—a subscription to your E-zine…a free E-book…a free bonus. Just adding a form on your website or blog will capture hundreds of people who are interested in following you through the years. Also, don’t forget to make a point of promoting your mailing list when you travel to events, speak at conferences, or send out orders. We did not announce ours as much in the early years and it took several years to build up as much as ours grows every six months now. A mailing list is the life-blood of our businesses. Begin yours TODAY!

So…Want to Be a Writer???

Any of you ready to take the plunge? These things have really made a huge difference for me through the years. Hopefully they will really help you to be all that God wants for you to be.

So many of you have immense talent. Why not offer it up to God today as a precious sacrifice? You have great things ahead of you! So…beloved…why not write that article? Why not write that newspaper column? Why not write that book. Yes! YOU can be a writer too!

Happy writing!
Cindy Rushton

Writing to See Writers Reach Their Dreams…
Check out my NEW site just for writers!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

So…You Want to be a Writer???
Check out our NEW Audio Seminar and Membership Site!
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For real!

A simple 3-ring binder.

I will never forget the day that Mamaw, my husband’s precious grandmother, came to me and asked me to just take my little articles to the local newspaper for a column so she would not risk losing her copy by loaning it to her friends. She was collecting all of my articles in a notebook of her own. Of course, she was so excited about them that she was constantly sharing them with friends. She, get this, wanted all of her “copies” in her notebook and did not want to lose even one. Her only idea for being sure that everyone could read it AND that she would not risk losing even one of them was for me to begin a column for our local newspaper!

It almost went over my head! I almost missed it. In my abrupt efforts to share with Mamaw that I was NOT a writer and that our local newspaper would surely NOT want me as one of their columnist, I almost missed one of the most important lessons of my life. Of course, God had a big plan!

Mamaw would not accept my many excuses for not submitting my articles to the newspaper. She saw something in me that I could never see. She valued my words. She valued my ideas. They were very precious to her. So precious that she had invested in a 3-ring binder and sheet protectors just so she could keep all of my writing in one place! Did I mention that she was on a very “fixed” income? And…she spent what she had to invest in me.

My focus was on my limitations. Her focus was on the great value of my writing. It was a treasure for her. I simply did not see that value. It showed in my actions.

Funny thing…I had never kept any of my writing. Sure, I had kept sweet letters from those I loved…neat quotes…even sermon notes. However, I simply did not even think to keep my own writing after I finished it. It just seemed insignificant to me. Until Mamaw inspired me!

That day everything changed for me. Something (umm…the Holy Spirit! ) moved me to just “ask” if my local newpaper editor was interested in a new column–he was! My writing took off! And…I bought a binder! I invested in my writing. I began to collect a portfolio of my articles. Everything changed!

As I look back over the past 14 years since Mamaw insisted that I submit my goodies to our local newspaper, I see the importance of truly valuing our writing! It is vital!

Do you value YOUR writing?

It is priceless!

What you have to say is not only worth keeping; but it is a valuable family treasure! As a writer, you get the opportunity to build a legacy! Your words can be a treasure to our generation…and many more to come!

So…beloved friend, do you VALUE your work? What are you doing today to invest in your legacy? To invest in your family’s treasures?

Want to be a great writer?

It begins with treasuring your work. What you have to offer is simply priceless! Why not take a few minutes each day to pour your heart out upon paper? Maybe you have lots on paper…why not begin today to keep those treasures in one place? Why not build them into a precious collection–uh…a book? (grin!) And…as you do, make copies for those you love so dearly–your children, grandparents, friends, and family.

Your words are important! Very, very important! They are meaningful, special, unique, and with a great purpose. Record them today. They will be tomorrow’s legacy!

I LOVE this!

I LOVE Mark Twain!

I love the wisdom that Mark Twain had packed in his mind!

Want to write? Do you have a dream? Go for it!

The real secret to getting it done is just getting started. So, how can you get started today? You know, don’t you? What can you do today to move forward and go for your dreams?

First, sit down and break the task into pieces. Then, do the first task today.

Don’t wait. Just begin today.

Then…tomorrow do the next thing.

Before long, we will be celebrating with you as you announce that your dream came true!

Counting days…

Writing to See Writers Reach Their Dreams…
Check out my NEW site just for writers!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

So…You Want to be a Writer???
Check out our NEW Audio Seminar and Membership Site!
Sign up and get STEP-BY-STEP Help through Setting Up Your Own Wordpress Website!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/onlineseminars.html

Oh! Don’t feel bad if your answer is “NO” right now. (at least until the end of this post!)

I just got the most AMAZING journal as a gift. A friend of mine sent my entire family a journal each. Not just ANY journal either! Designer journals! It was such a treat. Not just because they were special designer journals. Rather, it was more because of what was going on in MY HEART right before she sent them. Well, you may need a bit of background!

I have always kept notebooks, journals, and idea books. But, I have not been journaling. GASP!?

No, something deep within has hindered me from journaling. Was it reading Anne Frank’s diary in school? Ugh…well, probably…I remember thinking that IF we were being required to read her diary…then…ugh…I might not ever want to journal MY THOUGHTS…they could be at risk! Insane huh? ha!

It might be more than that!

There is something else just a bit deeper that has kept me from journaling. Actually a few things!

First, valuing my own thoughts! For real! Journaling is an investment. It is an investment of time and money. Something deep within me has held me back from preserving those thoughts. They are so rambly (is that a possible word???)…they say things that I am not sure I want in print…they have no specific focus…they lack any refinement. With all of that said, see my dilemma with investing my time to journal them down? See my dilemma with placing THOSE thoughts into a beautiful journal?

Second, fearing my thoughts! Scare you yet? No, I am just like you! I get SOOOooo mad at my in-laws. I get so frustrated parenting. I get PMS. I battle fears (obviously!). And…that is not all! I also get TOTALLY hyped up over things that God blesses me with. Truth here? Yep! I get afraid that journaling my thoughts just might make me “sound” manic! hehe! Oh, yet another dilemma that hinders me from journaling!

And…ugh…TOO BUSY! Enough said? Well…this one just wasn’t a good enough reason, but it was probably one of the largest hindrances to journaling! Getting so busy with so many things–many of which are very insignificant compared to the riches of journaling. Yet, the very things that get done!

Excuses. Excuses. Excuses!

Can you believe I write ANY books and articles? These are the same things that hinder some of you from writing!

Yep! I battle with the same things that YOU battle against!

BUT! ONE THING is needful!

We all NEED to journal!

Journaling is especially necessary for the very reasons that I have not been journaling! I need to journal! YOU need to journal! Why?

Journaling processes our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It pulls them out of the deep recesses of our mind. Once it is on paper, we can literally disect our thoughts and see the hidden jewels in there! Totally necessary for the Christian writer! Actually, journaling is one of the most essential disciplines for the Christian writer. In a journal, a writer can brainstorm…outline…collect ideas…and work out a manuscript. Humm…only our enemy of our soul would want to discourage such a discipline!

Which brings me back to this amazing gift!

Just the day before the journal arrived, I was sitting with my family in a bookstore just pondering a million and one thoughts. I saw the cutest little journals just within eye-range. I sat there thinking, “WOW! It would be a great time of my life to begin journaling! There is SOOOo much going on in my mind. I really need to put these thoughts on paper.” Then, my brain kept racing…”Maybe I can invest in a journal JUST for these thoughts…BUT (you know where this is going!)…they cost soooo much…I would mess those pretty journals up with my crazy thoughts….” FOR REAL! And…I discounted the whole idea away.

The mail came the next day with all of the every day stuff–except a very precious box. As I opened it up, all I could do was cry. God had moved in my friend’s heart to have a journal sent to me. BUT, not just ANY journal! A designer journal! YEP! FOR REAL! It is one of the most beautiful journals I have ever seen!

Heather invested IN ME!

Words truly are so insufficient to capture what has gone on in my heart every since!

My first reactions were…”NOW THIS ONE *REALLY* IS TOO PRETTY TO USE!” (it is!) But, God moved on my heart immediately to say, “Cindy, Heather wanted to bless you and you can do nothing less than pour into this journal your heart!”

So, there it is! The beginning of MY journal!

My first entry included this (no worries to MY mind–I am not typing in EVERYTHING!),

“…Another thing that this gift does is convict me about journaling. Do you think Heather knew that there is so much on my heart and I just needed to pour it into a good friend? My first response was so wrong–”Oh! It’s too pretty to use with what *I* think and feel!” HELLO! Yep! I am a writer–80+ books–100’s of articles–and yet can it be that I do not value my own heart cries? My own exhilaration? My own walk with you? My own wisdom? Well this journal is too beautiful and too dear to NOT write in! To not record these precious days! Goodness my life is pivoting on the edge right now–I am walking into a Great Big Place! You, beloved journal, get to be my friend and host of all that desperately needs to be poured forth! Ready? Meet ya soon! Cindy”

So…all of this “ado” to bring me to a question for you….

Journaling?

Beloved, are you journaling? Are you clinging to your excuses?

Today is the day! Invest in your new friend today! Nurture your heart! Nurture your creativity! Nurture your brain! You will never be the same!

Ohhhh!

Journaling! Do it TODAY!

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* Carry a notebook with you just for brainstorming/mindmapping.
* Draw a circle in the middle of a piece of paper. Inside of that circle, write down your topic.
* Without censoring yourself, quickly jot down related ideas and thoughts that come to mind. Enclose each in a circle, and draw a line to the original topic. If those trigger ideas, jot those down attached to the idea that triggers those extra ideas.
* Go back through deciding what you will use in your story/outline. Use ideas to generate your subtopics and details covered in your books.
* Keep your mind-map. You may need extra ideas later!

Daily. Daily, daily.

I spend so much time wondering…

What I’m supposed to write about?
What am I so high and mighty knowledgeable about?

I feel as though I am not an authority on any subject at all, especially motherhood, which is what I think the Lord wants me to write about. If He wants me to write to mothers, and if my husband believes that I can do it, then why not just take the plunge and do it? What could possibly go wrong? The type of “no” one gets in this publishing business is a written “no.” That is so much more easy to swallow than a face-to-face “no”, or a phone-call “no”.

On the other hand, if I do not write, I will lose my husband’s trust in my self-discipline, God’s calling, and much more personally.

I AM A WRITER!!!

On our last day in Mexico, I sat on a wooden carved bench with my feet on a cobblestone path in Mismaloya Village, with the river gurgling behind me, and with the bougainvillea blooming in front of me. I said aloud, “In this place, this idyllic place, I say out loud, ‘I am a writer.’ From now on , I AM A WRITER.”

Then I wrote the below resolutions in my journal:

* I WILL write every day. NOTHING will get in my way. NO interruption will be placed in importance above this calling (definitely family and home come first, of course, but I’m just saying that I’m through with excuses!). I can take my writing with me wherever I am needed, whether it is in a hospital room or on a playground. I will take it, I will use my time wisely, and I WILL be self-disciplined.

* I will stop endlessly reading about writing - I have learned enough to at least start.

* I will stop scheduling writing time - instead, I will just write.

* I will stop giving excuses to myself because I am a busy mother - God knows that, yet He called me to write anyway.

* I will stop wondering what to write - instead, I will sit down and write, even if in sentence fragments; even if I only write, “I don’t know what to write.”

* I will stop wondering why I am such an authority - I will instead agree with God that I should be writing and leave the expert editing to Him.

About Lori…

Lori Seaborg is a wife and homeschooling mother of four who lives and writes in the Gulf Coast countryside of Alabama. You may view her blog (one of MY FAVORITES!!) at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/KeepingtheHome

Ever heard of “Writer’s Block?” Ever HAD “Writer’s Block?” Boy, do I relate!

Ever get in a rut? You are NOT alone!

So, what do you do when your brain shuts down and your fingers are stuck? Let me qive you a few quick tips that just might get your fingers going again!

A while back I was finishing up one of my newest books, Homemade Books! YES! You CAN Be a Writer Too! One frustrating thing happened to me during the early stages of that particular book.

Now, get a quick background…I have written over 80 books, Bible studies, and packets. I have authored 1,000’s of articles. You would think that “writer’s block” and “writing ruts” would not be an issue for me any more. Well, actually, it never has been much of a problem. However, as I was in the early stages of writing HMBOOKS, I battled with “writer’s block” as never before. When writing about my passion—writing books—I was drawing a complete blank. Does something seem wrong here? I thought so myself!

I took the whole matter to the Lord. It was a heart-cry before Him. I knew that there was something great going to result from this struggle.

My brain remained completely blank in spite of my huge notebooks full of great outlines and material that I had collected through the years. My brain was totally empty and my fingers frozen although I had taught workshops on how to create books with children for years! UGH! My answer did not seem to come fast enough!

Well, until…

Yes! Isn’t God always SO faithful? Ohhh, YES!

I was sitting before my notes. Completely blank. Paralyzed. Then, the Lord spoke to my heart through His Word. Everything made sense! I could see what was hindering my progress!

Want to know what on earth it was? Experiencing some of that “Writer’s Block” in spite of a million ideas? Well, this is going to be good! Take a look at Habakkuk 2:2…

“Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may RUN that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it: because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”

There it is! The cure for those shut-downs! Vision!

This book was the very first book that I had ever found myself sitting at my desk thumping my pencil…staring out into space…and closing my computer with nothing new added to the file. Imagine that, when all along my answer was right in the pages of my Bible! All other projects just fell into an outline and flowed from my computer. I could see a complete vision of where I was going before I even got started. This particular book was different—and there was a reason!

My block was not because of my lack ideas and planning for the book. I had pages and pages of my outlines and ideas in my notebook. It was not because of a lack of interest and enthusiasm. There is nothing in the world more fun and exciting for me to talk about than books! J My “writer’s block” was not due to inexperience. I had written so many books of my own, plus I had helped my own children and other children to produce books for years. I definitely had experience. I knew the process of writing inside out. So, what was it all about?

For the first time, I struggled. I had so many ideas, so much information. What I needed was to take all of it and get a vision!

Then, it clicked! It was not even a “vision thing” with this book. I knew what I wanted in the book. I knew the set up because I had already found natural divisions for the book in my notebooks and workshops. I was having this dilemma for a very specific reason. I was taking so much of what it really takes to produce books for granted. We have produced so many books that it has become second nature to me. I just “DO” so many little things without thinking much about it. God wanted for me to slow down and remember those little things that make a BIG difference!

This one tip is one of those BIGGIES! It makes a world of difference when we are working on a project. We simply must get a vision of what the book or article is to become or we are completely crippled from the onset of the project. So whether you are needing the next step in producing a homemade book or article…or you are stuck with “writer’s block,” let me take your hand and walk you through this important part of the process!

Brainstorm! Brainstorm! Brainstorm!

Want to get out of that rut? Maybe all that is needed is an afternoon to settle down with a cup of tea to brainstorm! Now, you MUST know that I brainstorm as a recreational THING! It is refreshing for me! Just give me a few minutes…a journal and pen…and an idea. It almost consumes me! Relate? BUT…still need to know how to make your writing great by brainstorming? It is easy! Brainstorm everything that could or should be written about that topic in your journal. Brainstorming is what gets your brain going! Brainstorming is essential to pull together and organize all of those ideas that may be floating in your brain. It sorts through ideas and thoughts to pull them together for your outline and text. Get out your Idea Notebook and a piece of paper. Let’s brainstorm!

o First, let’s work on a topic that is driving you crazy. No excuses! Let’s hit that topic! Ready? Write down YOUR topic on a piece of paper in your Idea Notebook.

o Next, let’s brainstorm what you know about this topic. If you are compiling a cookbook, brainstorm the sections in your cookbook—what sections do you want to include? What recipes would you like to add to your cookbook? What details and information would need to be added to your book? What about an article on a special interest? Say, Tips for Making Meals Special. What natural paragraphs/points would you want to include? What information is most important to you? Jot it all down. Let your brain freely list and brainstorm. Don’t worry about whether you have lots to say or even if there is too much to say about any one thought, just write what comes to mind down.

o Now, brainstorm what you think NEEDS to be known about the topic…
Are there steps to cover? Are there dates and events that need more details? Can you list tips? What about brainstorming through the “Five W’s”—who, what, why, where, and when? If you are brainstorming for a story you are writing, think through all that you feel or sense—what do you “see” in your setting? What do you smell? What do you taste? What sounds do you hear? Brainstorm each character and what it is like to be around them. Brainstorm about each setting in your story. Include those details! They will take your reader deeper into your story.

o Let your mind go!
The more you brainstorm, the deeper and better developed your book will be. You may not use every idea, but you may uncover a very important part of your book. Keep this section of your notebook going. You will need this for reference while you write.

o Keep brainstorming!
It is very important to keep in mind that you do not have to stop brainstorming because you move on with the writing process. Keep this section of your notebook going. You will need this for reference while you write. You will need to continue to brainstorm until the book goes into print—and even after that, if you want a second edition of your book! Brainstorming will develop your book and your ideas. It will jog your brain, bringing out ideas thatwill make the book perfect. (More on Brainstorming in another post in the near future! )

Outlining…

I took for granted how much my brain just “thinks” in outlines until a dear friend (fellow writer) told me about her struggles with Outlining. School lessons never made any sense. The outlines that she prepared in school did not mean anything, so they did not train her to “see” a text in the form of an outline or to “think” and “brainstorm” her ideas by using an outline. This is just FUN for me. Please do not get sick yet!

Outlines are the “skeleton” of your articles and your books. They help to organize all of the material into a format that makes the book great. They help us to see how our text will flow. Outlines provide the framework for your project and guide the writing process. The outline is the structure the moves the story or text toward the vision of the book or article.

Once you have decided on your topic, brainstormed what you would like to cover, the outline will make the final (well, nothing is ever completely final!) decisions of what will go in the book and the order that it will be included in the book. Then, the last part…

Filling the Gaps and Putting It All Together…

If you have stuck with me and worked on the earlier steps, this is going to be the really fun part! This is where you will add in the details and information that you want for your reader to learn. This is what really makes your book or article completely unique. So, how?

o Check for any gaps and holes.
Are all of the steps included? Are the little bits of information included? Have you listed all of the supplies? Check for gaps and holes. Fill in details. Develop your message.

o Teach what you know with the details in your text.
Write it! It may be little things. For example, when Matthew was writing his book, Fearless Warriors: A Chronological History of the US Marines, there were certain terms that he was very familiar with from his extensive reading and research about the Marines. I had never come in contact with those terms used in those ways. Not understanding what those terms meant in their context hindered my understanding of his book. As we began editing, I asked him what those words meant. He could explain those terms very well. That was my key to recommend that he include his explanation in his text. Then, the text was perfect! No holes! Check to fill any gaps in the text. Remember, the author is the expert in their field and the reader wants to learn what the author knows!

o Monitor to stay on topic and not chase rabbits. All of this said, this is also an important point! We want to develop our points, but not stray from our points chasing rabbits. All along the process monitor to be sure that the text stays on target.

o Constantly evaluate your outline to be sure that it has a good flow. If there are places that are choppy, either develop the idea or cut it—that is the hard part! Hard, but a key to a strong manuscript.

o Organize the final outline…you are ready to write!

So, is your “Writer’s Block” better yet? Running again? Left that rut far behind! Try these ideas and see if it doesn’t get much, much better! This is the hardest part! Now, you are ready to write! Or…to dig deeper with me….

Writing to See Writers Reach Their Dreams…
Check out my NEW site just for writers!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

So…You Want to be a Writer???
Check out our NEW Audio Seminar and Membership Site!
Sign up and get STEP-BY-STEP Help through Setting Up Your Own Wordpress Website!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/onlineseminars.html

If we were at a professional writer’s conference or if we were reading a professional writer’s magazine, we could be sure that we would hear one piece of counsel over and over again:

Write EVERY day.

That counsel is the one factor that separates great authors from those who never write. Yes, write each and every day!

One of my favorite authors, John Grisham, claims this as his key to writing. Other great writers throughout time have attributed this as a secret to their success.

Does this scare you? Don’t let it! There are many ways that you can write each day. On those days that things are just not flowing well for me, I love to get out a journal and just begin copying neat quotes by other authors. Usually it is not long before my juices are flowing and overflowing!

Another thing that I enjoy doing is making outlines. During those times that I sit down with a empty brain, outlining in my Idea Notebook helps make progress and usually inspires me. On days that I am ready to write, my outlines are finished and ready for me to write away!

At this time, the best thing for you may be just copying neat quotes each day. Keep those in a notebook or journal. This skill will do more for your writing than anything else (You are writing each day AND having to proofread your copy against a model—great skills!).

Write each day! It will make your writing great!

Happy Writing (EVERY Day)!
Cindy Rushton

Writing to See Writers Reach Their Dreams…
Check out my NEW site just for writers!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

So…You Want to be a Writer???
Check out our NEW Audio Seminar and Membership Site!
Sign up and get STEP-BY-STEP Help through Setting Up Your Own Wordpress Website!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/onlineseminars.html

End Of Week Business Checklist
(Questions to ask yourself)

1) Have I and/or my business advanced this week? If yes, in what areas?

2) What mistakes did I make that I can learn from and improve upon?

3) Have I done at least 1 thing each day this week that I didn’t want to do,
but that would help myself or my business if I did it? That means I would
have to have done 7 powerful things toward my business development.

4) What have I put off that needs to be tackled next? Write it down..

5) What are the most important actions I need to be
focusing on next week? Write them down..

6) Am I focusing on the most important thing? Did I keep my laser beam focus
or was I not targeting my actions and energy?

7) What was my primary focus? Was I distracted or focused? How did that help
or hurt me with my goal achievement?

For many years I was in a downward entrepreneurial spiral, many ideas and little to no action thus I had no attraction for success. When I started asking myself more powerful and productive questions, and
became more and more clear about what I wanted, better results immediately followed. You and I have greater aspirations for our lives and we need to stretch ourselves. Become more disciplined and more aggressive toward out own business. Because in the end, no one can make you rich, healthy, successful, happy… but you.

Evaluate and be present working toward your goals and vision. Keep your pictures, affirmations, goals and prayers visible and handy. Discipline yourself to hold the vision, the picture, the amount, the goal in your
conscious and subconscious mind.

DO it Daily, Hourly, Minute by minute sometimes.

About Victoria Johnson…
Victoria Johnson has overcome poverty, race discrimination, and eating disorders including obesity, anorexia, and bulimia, to become the nation’s premier health and fitness “activist.” Victoria is the owner and president of http://www.VictoriaJohnson.com, has produced and starred in over 24 award-winning exercise and dance fitness videos, produced and starred in her own television show entitled “Victoria’s Body Shoppe” and most recently authored her second book, Body Revival, Lose Weight, Feel Great and Pump Up Your Faith!