For authors, speakers or program leaders Only… [Course Creation Summit]
I’ve just received word that something BIG is about to happen in the world of course creation and you’re now on the inside since I just had a peek “behind the curtain”…
On May 17-21, my friend Iman Aghay is launching the Course Creation Summit that will help authors, speakers or program leaders get the tools and strategies necessary to build your own course roadmap so that you know exactly what to do when it comes to putting it together, launching and making money.
Here’s your link to register now – while it’s still free! [Register Here For Free]
When you see the topics being covered by these 48+ world-class course creation experts, you’ll understand why the Course Creation Summit is going to be an absolute game-changer for those who attend!
You’ll discover exactly how to overcome your toughest challenges, such as believing that…
*Your course may not well you’ll end up looking unprofessional
*Your students won’t study your course and want a refund
*You won’t be able to find people to promote your course
*Your students end up having a bad experience and leave negative reviews everywhere.
And get this… after you attend and apply what you learn, you won’t need to worry about feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or inadequate anymore.
Iman has lined up 48+ world-class experts in course creation for a LIVE 5-day online event like no other.
And the best part is……
It’s FREE for you to attend!
Unlike conferences and hotel seminars that you have to invest time and money to travel to, you can attend this cutting-edge online virtual summit from anywhere in the world. Cool huh?
No booking flights, rental cars, and hotel rooms, no dealing with layovers, lost luggage, and no missed work or time away from home.
Instead, from the comfort of your home or office or wherever you choose to listen in, you’re also going to learn exactly how to…
*Create an automated stream of income to pay your monthly bills
*Learn how to really help others by sharing your knowledge and making money at the same time
*Become known and recognized as an authority in your field
*Be part of a community comprised of world-class experts
*Leave a legacy or impact that you can be proud of…
And so much more…
Now, all that’s left to do is to [Claim Your FREE Virtual Ticket Here] before time runs out.
You’ll need to reserve your digital seat to attend so that we can send out a reminder to you about the event each day. That way you won’t miss any of the talks and all the extras that come with them.
The Course Creation Summit is going to be awesome!
Simply [Click Here] to reserve your seat before life gets in the way and you forget…
Make Today Amazing!
Irene Gabelnick
P.S. I want to help Iman get the word out about the Course Creation Summit and you’re one of the first to know! If you wouldn’t mind sharing the free registration link via email or social media with a few others you think would benefit, they’ll also be able to claim their own free pass…
I’d really appreciate it! (Plus you’ll look like a superhero for being the first to share!)
Here’s the link again that you can share:
https://irenegabelnick–successroadacademy.thrivecart.com/course-creation-summit-0521/
Maybe She’s Born With It or Maybe It’s Magic
“We do not need magic to change the world. We carry all the power we need inside ourselves already. We have the power to imagine better.
“~J.K. Rowling
I recently started reading the book The Magic by Rhonda Byrne.
Rhonda Byrne is the creator behind The Secret, a documentary film that swept the world in 2006, changing millions of lives and igniting a global movement. The Magic is one of the books in the trilogy of The Secret and is basically a “how-to” guide on using gratitude to manifest anything you want into your life. It’s basically a 28-day guide to magically manifest anything you want into your life.
Now, I’m not sure if I actually believe in Magic per se. But I do believe in consistency and the power of believing in yourself and I think J.K. Rowling says it well.
So maybe she’s born with it or maybe it’s magic…
Either way, I’m all about gratitude and positive thinking – so why not give it a shot.
We ALL desire something we don’t already have.
There are two reasons I decided to go ALL IN on this. A couple of weeks ago my friend Cherie Marquez (aka The Dog Mystic) asked me to form a Facebook group with her. And inside the group, she wants to do the 28 days of Magic together.
This way we’ll hold each other accountable and lift as we climb.
This is why we’re inviting you to join us.
The other reason is that I did my research as any good copywriter would do.
I read the reviews and here’s what I found: The book has a 5 out of 5-star rating on Amazon with 87% of readers giving it 5 stars and that’s with 12,490 reviews.
One verified purchaser, a person by the name of E. Blossom said, “ABSOLUTELY LIFE CHANGING. Went from roughly $70 in my bank account to traveling and making over $78K in 3 months.”
And we can all use a little extra cash. I also truly believe in the power of community.
When we band together the magic happens…
So here’s the deal: each day, one of us (either Cherie or I) will be going Live inside our Facebook group and sharing how to use gratitude to manifest anything you want in your life.
This could be with your health, relationships, money, career. your business, abundance, love, passions, material things, or anything your heart desires. Even finally writing that book you’ve thinking about. We’re starting this Wednesday, May 5 (which happens to be my Mom’s birthday, and what a fitting memorial tribute to the wonderful woman she was). This way, the 28th day will be June 1st which is Cherie’s birthday. That one we planned. 🙂
Which I thought makes a perfect birthday gift for my friend. We named the group Find Your True Bliss.
Because to me, that’s what life is about. Finding joy and happiness in all that we do. To join us inside our brand new Facebook group and find your true bliss use the link below.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/findyourtruebliss
Make today amazing!
Irene
P.S.
If you need some one-on-one help with anything pertaining to writing your book or getting clarity on your path (or your business) hit reply to schedule a private coaching session with me.
I’ve opened up just a few spots this week for the first 3 people who respond. I don’t do this very often but I’m offering an enormous discount so grab it now before it’s too late.
We’ll schedule a live 60-minute Zoom call for only $97. These spots fill up quickly… So hit reply now to save your spot before they fill up!
Grow Your Business with Pinterest
Discover how to grow your business using Pinterest to drive new buying customers to your website fast.
Updated on November 9, 2020. This post may contain affiliate links. Which means I earn a small commission if you purchase through the links. You can read the full disclosure to learn more.
Pinterest is still one of the fastest-growing social media platforms.
Even in 2020! Read how you can easily use Pinterest to drive traffic to your website, build your email list, and grow your business.
Unlike other social media platforms, Pinterest is a search engine. Where people go to buy things, find useful information, and where business owners go to take action!
*Just a quick side note. I don’t usually write long blog posts. But I felt it was really important to share this with you. It took me a long time to figure out how to use Pinterest successfully. Now that I have found a winning formula I wanted to share it with you. To save you time and start using Pinterest the right way – fast. So you can drive consistent traffic with Pinterest to make money blogging and grow your business.
You can Pin it now in case you get interrupted. Then come right back to learn actionable steps that you can use right now to start getting traffic to your website. Don’t forget to download your FREE guide to make your Pinterest pins go viral.
The following information below can help you quickly grow your business using Pinterest.
Keep reading to see who is on Pinterest, what Pinterest is all about, and how you can grow your business using Pinterest.
Who’s on Pinterest?
According to Pinterest Business, there are over 442 million monthly active users worldwide. Pinterest is growing and has become a valuable business platform for bloggers and business owners.
Also, business owners and bloggers are on Pinterest all the time. So if your business targets other business owners (or happy shoppers with money to spend) it’s a great place to be.
Here are some compelling statistics according to Pinterest for Business:
- 81% of Pinterest users are women.
- The median age of Pinterest users is 40.
- Half of Pinterest users earn $50K or greater per year, with 10 percent of Pinteresting households making greater than $125K.
- 90% of weekly Pinners make purchase decisions on Pinterest
How Pinterest Works…
Pinterest is a form of social media that uses images to grab your attention and drive traffic to information, products, and services. The images are shared and saved to boards to keep and use for later.
As a business, you can have direct links to your website, a sales page or an email sign up form. Hosted either by your website or your email provider.
Pinterest is primarily a search engine. Not so much used for social engagement, but to find useful things to make your life easier.
Here’s an example of exactly how it works. I’m going to use recipes as an example. If you want a specific recipe for dinner, you search for it. You find recipes you want to try, then you save them to your recipe board for later. When you want to make that recipe you go to your Pinterest account and look up the recipe you’ve saved.
You can now make it for dinner or look up the ingredients while you’re at the grocery store. Making it super helpful!
You can also delete the recipe from your board if you decide you didn’t like it. Then you can inform all your friends how awful the recipe was. Like this vegan buffalo wing cauliflower recipe, my daughter and I tried.
People love recommendations and honest feedback. Making your testimonials even stronger. Helping you close more sales!
That is basically how Pinterest works. Now let’s see how you can put Pinterest to work for you and your business.
How to Use Pinterest to Grow Your Business.
Now that we’ve established who’s on Pinterest and how it can help you grow your business, let’s talk about how you can use it to drive sales. Pinterest is a great way to drive traffic to your website. Let’s face it, without traffic you can’t build your email list or increase sales.
I use Pinterest primarily two ways to help my business. You can do the same to grow your business. I create business boards to share valuable content, resources, and information. I save and share pins I create, that link back to my website. Plus, I share Pins that link back to useful content created and shared by other Pinterest users, such as bloggers and other businesses.
I only share and save pins I think will help and interest my viewers. Or information I personally want to read or use. I often check to make sure the links are working and read the articles when I have time. To make sure they come from credible sources and offer value to my readers. You don’t want your Pins to have broken links or poor content.
You can use Pinterest to find valuable tips and tricks to help you build your business. Valuable resources that help you grow your Pinterest account, drive traffic to your website and tons of other business resources. Including how to use social media, website building, traffic, blogging, list building and making money online.
You can also use Pinterest for fun and shopping.
There is some controversy about having boards that aren’t related to your business. I personally think as long as your boards help or interest your followers that it’s okay to have them. Your viewers are actual people. They might share similar interests and want to know about travel, recipes and cleaning hacks too. Don’t you?
My suggestion is to test it to see what works best for you.
To see whether you want to keep your Pinterest account strictly a business platform or make it fun and interesting. Since my main Pinterest account was originally my personal account, I didn’t want to lose the pins I’d saved. Plus, my main Pinterest account right now is my name which is my main business website.
Most of what I know, I’ve learned from testing and implementing different strategies. I’m always continuing to test and learn what’s working.
This way I can teach you how to continuously use Pinterest as a driving force to grow a profitable business using Pinterest.
Once I discovered a winning formula that drives consistent traffic to my website I decided to create the Viral Pin Strategy.
The Viral Pin Strategy is an online video course. It teaches you how to drive traffic to your website quickly and consistently.
What I have found works best (for Pinterest and every social media platform) is testing and using consistency. You need to find what works best for your business. What works with your schedule and what things you can implement into your business strategy that you will follow through with.
Which is why I LOVE Pinterest so much.
Once you learn how it all works, you can automate most of it to put Pinterest to work for You!
Using consistency to grow your business is key to your success.
You need to stay consistent and not give up if you want to put Pinterest to work for you. To drive consistent traffic and grow your business.
Now let’s go over a few actionable steps you can start right now to successfully grow your business with Pinterest. The things I am about to share with you have and continue to work for me and can definitely work for you too.
The steps below are how I was able to increase my monthly views and drive traffic to my website. These are proven methods, you can start doing immediately, to grow your Pinterest views, get more Pinterest followers and drive traffic to your website.
How I Grew my Monthly Pinterest Views from 4k to 46k within only one week.
After implementing only a few of things, I quickly grew my Pinterest monthly views from 4k to 46k. This happened within about a week. As I continued to implement new strategies and *test* I grew my monthly views to over 240k within only a few months.
You can quickly grow your Pinterest views, increase followers and use Pinterest to drive traffic and sales. By implementing only a few of the strategies I am about to share with you.
This ONE THING alone can help you Grow Your Business.
There is *one thing* I have found that is the key to growing any business. Using any form of social media, including Pinterest, any blog, podcast or even a YouTube Channel. To build trust with your audience and drive traffic to your website.
Here’s the thing. There are lots of ways to grow your blog and business. Whichever one you choose, you must be consistent. It is easy to panic when something isn’t working quickly. Blogging is not a get rich quick scheme and all businesses take time to build and grow.
This one thing that can increase your traffic is consistency.
The thing I find that unquestionably works the best is using consistency with anything regarding to traffic, email list building and sales.
Every once in a while I get a little lax and I see a drop. Once I start pinning consistently and trying new strategies it quickly goes back up.
My blog traffic begins to increase, my email list grows and sales go up. Tailwind is a tool that can help you automate your pinning schedule to increase traffic, conversions and sales.
In addition to pinning consistently, I did a few more things that can help you grow your Pinterest views, followers and your cash flow. The first was to convert my personal Pinterest account into a Business Pinterest account.
It is very easy to switch your personal account to a business account. Simply go into the settings of your personal Pinterest account and you will see how easy it is to convert your account. I won’t go into details since Pinterest gives you super easy to follow instructions.
If you already have a business account then you are already well on your way to success! Maybe I was a little slow on the take. 🙂
Once I began using consistency I began to analyze my analytics and *test* my pins. That’s when everything changed!
Increase your monthly views and grow your followers on Pinterest by doing just a few simple and actionable things.
Another thing I discovered is that Pinterest likes fresh content, fresh pins and longer blog posts. Once they see people pinning and saving posts from your website, Pinterest will begin to push your pins out even further.
This way you reach more of your target audience and buying customers and make your pins go viral!
If you haven’t already you can save this article now, this way you can read it again later. Save it by clicking on any of the Pinterest pins. Then you can pin it to all of your relevant boards. To help your followers grow their business with Pinterest too.
Next, we will cover how and why claiming (or verifying) your website will help you grow your business on Pinterest.
How to Claim Your Website on Pinterest.
After turning your Pinterest account into a business account (or creating a business account) you can claim your website with Pinterest. This will allow you to now have access to your analytics. This is really important because it helps you track which pins are getting the most re-pins and shares.
It also allows your Pinterest profile picture to appear next to your pins.
Claiming your website is important because it helps your audience and followers identify you. To recognize you and begin to trust you as a reputable source of information.
If you haven’t claimed your website yet I strongly suggest that you do it today. Below I share the link where you can easily claim your website.
It shouldn’t take you too long to do. If you want to do it now and read this later, Pin this article to one of your boards and come back to it. Otherwise, keep reading and then do everything after you are done reading this.
Another thing you can do, if you want to read a long blog post, but you don’t have time to read the whole thing in one sitting, is this:
First, save the pin to one of your boards, then go back to the article and open it in chrome on your computer or phone. Then you can bookmark the page. This way you can find it more quickly later.
Another reason this is so helpful is that it connects you to someone who is creating great content. To help you grow your business. Hopefully, you will find my articles useful and keep coming back. I’m not a fly by night blogger and won’t be going anywhere.
I am here to help you succeed which you will. As long as you don’t quit!
Before we move on, as promised, here is the direct link to the Pinterest help center where you can claim your website: Pinterest Help Center.
There are still a few important things I want to share with you, so let’s keep moving.
You should carefully assess your Pinterest profile. The about you section isn’t really “about you”. No one really cares what kind of dog you have or what you do in your spare time. They want to know how you can help them and why they should follow you and your boards.
Be clear about your “message,” what you do and how your business will help your followers. I have made this mistake and it can kill or halt your business. I would rather you learn from my mistakes than struggle through trying to figure things out by yourself.
Here’s an example of how to be clear with your message: A graphic designer might say something like “Stunning Graphic Designs to help you build brand awareness and grow your business.” A cat sitter might say something like, “I treat your pets like they are my own. Affordable pet sitting to give you peace of mind while you’re away.”
Use descriptive words to show your audience how you can help them.
If you are not doing this already begin to pin regularly and be consistent. You don’t need to be on Pinterest all day long. In fact, you shouldn’t be. Use a scheduler like Tailwind. Especially if you know you have a busy day or week ahead. Do it ahead of time so you are constantly pinning.
I use Tailwind routinely but I also pin manually and think it’s important to do both. Pinterest likes when you are on Pinterest. Plus there is a ton of great information on Pinterest that can help you grow your business.
If you haven’t signed up for Tailwind yet, you can use my Referral link to get a $15 credit when opening a new account. Once you sign up we Both get a $15 credit.
Here’s my referral link to get started now: Get started with Tailwind.
When pinning other people’s pins, you want to make sure that the links are working and that the articles have good information. I have pinned blog posts and then began reading them to find the content wasn’t very good or I didn’t agree with the information. Whenever this happens I go back and delete the pin. Which is super easy.
How to delete pins on Pinterest.
You can either delete them on your computer by clicking the “edit” button. Then scroll to the bottom of the information and hit “delete.” You do the same thing on your mobile app. Once you are in the edit section scroll all the way down to the bottom. I can only see the “delete” button if I scroll down. Then hit delete.
I also delete all of my pins that are not converting well or going viral. Then you can create new pins that can drive more traffic. Don’t get discouraged. Remember you are not failing. It’s simply a failed “test.” Keep going until you find what’s working and then repeat.
Continue to check your boards to make sure you have helpful resources that serve your audience. Keeping your boards clean and filled with great content (relevant to your niche) will keep people coming back.
Having pins with bad links or misinformation can quickly lead to losing trust, credibility, and followers.
Clean up your boards and keep doing it at least once a week or monthly.
At one point my Pinterest boards were a complete mess. When I first started on Pinterest I didn’t know what I was doing. So I spent quite a bit of time on this. Now every few weeks I go back and delete pins and make sure the saved pins on my boards are relevant, helpful and have working links.
If you don’t have time to go through them all, you can make some of your boards secret.
Then go back to them later, when you have more time. To make your boards secret go to edit the board then click on the secret button. A little lock will appear on your board to show you that no one else can see it.
Quick Tip to Save Time while Cleaning Up Your Pinterest Boards.
You can quickly go through larger boards (with a lot of pins) by creating a new board. Try making the title a little more descriptive. Save any pertinent pins from the old board to the new board. Then delete the old board. Doing this will save you a ton of time. It was quick and easy and felt refreshing.
Kind of like spring cleaning or cleaning out your closet.
If you haven’t done so already, add descriptions and hashtags to each board. Use descriptions on your Pinterest boards that maximize SEO keywords. Pinterest is a search engine. You want your boards and pins to show up in searches related to your boards and content
When choosing the titles for your boards, think about how the board benefits the reader. Don’t just say simple things like “cool graphics.” Instead, say something like “Graphics will inspire you to create great blog posts that will have your clients begging to work with you.”
For each board make sure that the first pin or “cover” picture is one of your own pins.
To change the cover image of your board, click on the board then hit the edit icon. Go to where it says cover. Click next to it where it says “change.” Then you can scroll through the pictures by hitting the arrow to the right of the picture. Once you find the pin (image) you want to keep as your cover, click the save button in the lower right hand corner.
Drive Traffic to Your Website to Grow Your Business.
As a blogger or business owner, the whole purpose of using Pinterest and creating a Pinterest Business account is to increase sales. By driving traffic to your website and directing the right people to your offers.
Pinterest is a great way to drive the right traffic to your website. Your pins link directly to your blog posts, sales pages and products. Making it a fast and effective way to make sales.
By leading them exactly where you want them to go. To the “Buy Now” button. Or even better, by getting them to join your Email List so you can gain new customers for life.
Once I discovered a winning formula that has grown my email list and helped me grow my business I decided to share it with you. That’s why I created the Viral Pinterest Pin Strategy Video Series that shows you *exactly* how you can create Pinterest Pins that go Viral.
You can start now by downloading your FREE eBook. Where you will learn 10 vital steps that can help you grow your business fast.
Enter your email below to download your FREE guide.
“10 Things that Can Make Your Pinterest Pins Go Viral“
There is Always Something to Be Thankful For
How to make Gratitude work for YOU to live more happily and freely.
When I’m not at my best or I’m feeling a little anxious, sad, lonely or worried There is one thing I do that works every time.
That my friend is practice gratitude. So I would like to share with you how you can use gratitude in your life.
To find more calm, peaceful happiness and pleasure in your life.
What I do is think of 3 things that I am grateful for. To demonstrate I will share 3 things I am grateful for right now.
Three things I am grateful for...
- I am grateful that my kids are healthy.
2. I am grateful that today was a beautiful warm sunny day where I live.
3. I am grateful, that I have the freedom to work where I want when I want and how I want.
Because no matter how bad things may seem at times, there is ALWAYS something to be thankful for.
It all starts with a positive attitude.
So when times get tough, I stop and think to myself “What are 3 things I am grateful for right now?”
Then I either write them down, say them out loud, think them to myself or I text them to a friend.
Why 3 you ask?
Well, it works for me. I’ve tried journaling gratitude in the morning. Then in the evening. I’ve tried listing everything I am thankful for, which can eat up a LOT of your time.
That’s why 3 is my magic number.
Because it’s something I can do to easily. To shift my mindset from a distressed state to a state of gratitude. You can’t be in a state of anxiety, fear, sadness or depression when you are feeling grateful.
How to Make Gratitude Work For You
So figure how you can work gratitude into your day. To make it work for you. So you can find more peace, love, and joy in your life.
I sure hope this helps you when you’re feeling a little off.
Especially, when you are feeling anything but calm, happy, or grateful that you might remember this.
Hopefully, it will help brighten your day.
If you want to learn how you can live the freedom lifestyle, so you can work how you want when you want, and from anywhere in the world (using only a laptop and an internet connection) download your FREE guide to start your own blog or online business below.
Here’s the link to learn more:
https://www.irenegabelnick.com/make-money-online/
Irene
Brighten Your Day Instantly and Feel Happier
Instantly, brighten your day (or someone you love) by doing this one simple thing. If you’re feeling a little discouraged or things aren’t going your way, use this simple strategy to brighten things up.
No matter how big or how small your troubles may seem, you can easily lift your spirits. In a flash! The only caveat is you need a friend or another person for this to work. Which in itself can brighten your day simply by connecting with someone.
This can work with absolutely anyone. Even a perfect stranger.
The really cool thing is, that it will brighten their day too. Sometimes just hearing a kind voice on the other end of the line can instantly make you feel better.
Let’s be honest, people run from negativity. It’s human nature to repel things that can bring you down. But if you’re dealing with a difficult situation it can be hard to always put on a happy face. Which can make people close to you not pick up the phone so much. Or stop making time to see you.
As sad as this may seem, it’s a reality.
It’s not their fault per se. Everyone is going through something. We all deal with difficulties at some time or another and sometimes you can’t expose yourself to people who might bring you down.
It doesn’t make you (or them) a bad person. It’s simply a defense mechanism to feel happy.
The good news is there is an answer! Which is why I am telling you something good. So you can reach out to people for help without bringing yourself down, harping on your problems, or worse, bringing your friends down too.
So if you’re feeling down and out, dealing with stress (or a difficult situation) or simply need a quick pick me up, listen carefully to something that works for me. Every… single… time.
Often when I need to hear a friendly voice I pick up the phone and call a friend. They’ll ask me, “How are you?”
Then I’ll reply, “Fine” or “I’m good. How are you?”
If they know I’m going through a rough time they can smell my BS a mile away. But still, maintain your composure, and simply say something like, “I could be better but I really don’t want to talk about it.” Then say…
“Tell me something good.”
They will usually ponder for a moment trying to think of a funny story to tell you. Instantly relieved they don’t have to hear about your troubles…
Before you know it you’re both laughing over some silly story. Or some achievement, or some cool thing that happened. Then you too start sharing something good that happened. Or begin reminiscing about a similar situation.
You and your friend both instantly feel happier. They are also way more likely to pick up the phone and call you again soon.
Don’t believe me?
Try it. Pick up the phone right now. Call someone you know and simply say, “Tell me something good.”
If you want someone you care about to feel happier, share this with everyone you know. Go ahead. Then reach out to me. On social media or wherever and tell me something good. Hopefully, you’ll tell me how my sharing this with you helped you (or someone you know) feel a little bit happier.
Want more happy stories like this one? Sign up to receive Lifestyle & Happiness news. Straight to your inbox!
Once You Put Your Big Girl Pants On There is NO Going Back
When my youngest daughter was two, she refused to wear pull-ups.
You know, those diapers that are designed so you can pull them up and down. Like panties. So every time your little one goes potty you don’t have to throw away an expensive unused diaper.
Nope.
Not my little Miss Independent. Who I sometimes call “Mini Me.”
Now keep in mind, she hadn’t needed a diaper in months. I knew she was ready to go to big girl panties and had even bought her an assortment of really cute ones. To try to convince her to give up diapers.
I guess she wanted to stay little.
So here we had a box of pretty pink pull-ups that she refused to wear. As well as a drawer full of cute little underwear. Yet we were still throwing away expensive diapers. Every single day.
One day, she was going through one of the many toy catalogs that arrive by the boatload just before Christmas. She had circled a doll stroller along with many other toys.
There was this one particular stroller that she really wanted.
This one stroller, she had circled many times and kept showing me. Making sure I KNEW this was absolutely the one she wanted. We were sitting on the couch one day, when suddenly the wheels in my mind started churning.
This seemed like the perfect opportunity.
It was bribery, yes. But desperate times call for desperate measures. Christmas was coming and we couldn’t afford to keep throwing money away. Especially on unused diapers.
Then I asked her one question.
And it went something like this, “Sara.” I said to grab her attention. “If I buy you this stroller right now, and you have it in a couple of days, would you start wearing the pullups?”
Suddenly, she flew off the couch and took off running!
She ran up the stairs to her bedroom and pulled out a pair of panties. Completely bypassing the transitional pullups. She put them on, came right back downstairs and said, “Done.”
I actually don’t remember what she said. It was probably more like, “Alright Mom. Order the stroller.”
What I do remember was the determination in her eyes.
And the way she stood there looking at me. So confident with her hands on her hips. I knew at that moment that our diaper days were over. I confirmed with her that she would never go back to diapers. Once she agreed, I ordered the stroller.
That was unquestionably one of the best investments I have ever made. If you’re a mom (or a dad) you understand the joys of the end of diaper days.
Forever.
She never ever had an accident. And she never went back. Because once you put your big girl pants on, there is NO going back.
For the past several months or so, I have been learning everything possible about course creation, testing, marketing and selling online courses. Despite the fact that I already know quite a bit. I’ve been selling them for a while now.
I needed to learn how to scale my business and fast. Because it’s something I really want. To live a life filled with abundance, joy, freedom and wealth.
The training sessions I have been taking (and the people I am surrounding myself with) are experienced experts who are making millions of dollars selling online programs and are teaching course creators (like me) how to do it right. However, despite everything they are teaching me I still haven’t been doing it.
I guess maybe we all need a little incentive. Or bribery.
One of the things about starting a business is that we have a tendency to devalue our time. Most of us normal folks anyway. Which only hurts us in the long run. You see, if you don’t charge what your program is worth then people often don’t see the value in it.
When you charge a premium price, people have more of an “investment” mindset. They are serious about completing your program. Making it a “no brainer” to pull out their credit card and enroll.
Also making it a huge win/win for everyone.
Your students succeed by showing up and doing the work. Then they give you a raving testimonial. Making it easier for you to sell more high-end courses.
Then you can help even more people succeed.
I realized this morning that I’ve been kind of “staying little” too. Instead of joining the big leagues. Even though I have written over a dozen books just this past year alone.
Even though I became the Health & Fitness Expert on the award-winning radio show The Queen Silvy Show. Only two months after publishing my first book. Where I went live in front of millions of listeners each and every month.
Even though people were calling me “famous.”
And “You’re a Star!” Including my friend Chris (from my LA Mastermind group) who’s a real estate broker selling multi-million dollar listings in San Francisco.
Even though I am co-writing a book with Jennelle Gordon. A book about how Tony Robbins helped a brave young woman. Who as a young girl was sold into sex trafficking and escaped after 10 years of captivity. And how she has started her own business, created Beyond Freedom, a non-profit organization that helps young survivors get back on their feet.
To finally going live on stage delivering her very first TED talk.
A true inspirational story that can show you how you can overcome any obstacle in life. To go from surviving to thriving regardless of any circumstance.
What I realized today is that I am already in the big leagues.
It’s time to put my big girl pants on. And never look back.
So, I raised the price on my upcoming writing course. A LOT. A program where I am teaching entrepreneurs like you how to go from blank page to published in only 5 weeks.
To grow your business, get higher paying clients, land higher paid speaking engagements and easily get into the media.
Because once you put your big girl pants on there is no going back.
Not for my baby girl and not for me.
If you are ready to join the big leagues, by becoming a published author, to scale your business and take it to the next level, you can start today.
Don’t you think it’s time you put your big girl (boy) pants on?
Download your FREE guide to becoming a published author. Take off running now and head on over to The Power of Writing.
How to Feel Happier
Something I read a while back , struck a chord in me…
“Happiness is a feeling.”
This is something I tell myself often. You see, the past year has been one of the worst years of my life.
Starting my own business and trying to start a blog has kept me trying to keep a smile on. Publicly, I mean. No one cares when things are bad. They don’t want to hear it.
And when things are good?
Greed, jealousy and envy can rear their ugly heads in ways I never thought possible. It doesn’t matter how hard you try to feel happier. It doesn’t change the ugliness in this world.
With that said, despite what challenges you are dealing with now. The good, the bad or the ugly. Happy times, stressful times or scary difficult times.
There are actionable things you can do right now to feel happier.
If I can still manage to feel happy enduring what I have been through this past year, there is no question you can too. Today I want to share some of the things I think can make anyone feel happier.
On good days or bad.
Things that you might need to force yourself to do. But that you *should* do if you need a pick me up. Happiness really does only exist within yourself.
Pink, red, orange and yellow are happy colors.
You can’t change the past. You can’t make bad people good. You can’t turn black into white. But there are shades of gray that you can add color to.
Add some color to your life by surrounding yourself with cheerful colors and friendly kind people. Stop and take time to do something you enjoy.
Play a silly game on your phone for a few minutes. Go for a walk or watch a funny YouTube video. Anything that will make you laugh.
Call a friend. Be careful with this one. Not everyone who pretends to be your friend is your friend. I hope you don’t learn this the hard way the way I have.
When you do, you don’t need to mention that you’re feeling bad. You don’t have to vent or share even. Simply say to your friend, “Tell me something good.”
You’ll be surprised how a happy or uplifting story can lift your spirits. Even if it’s just for a moment.
Exercise. Exercising Makes You Feel Happier.
It doesn’t matter what you do. Walk, run, jump rope. Do a set of angry pushups. You would be surprised how you can instantly feel happier just be getting your heart pumping.
Eating Makes You Feel Good
Sometimes when you’re feeling sad you forget to eat. Or nothing tastes good…
At least for me anyway.
Eat something and drink a glass of water. Opt for something healthy like fruit or a large healthy meal. Depending on when you ate last.
Also, do treat yourself. This is time for self care. Do anything that will make you feel better!
Eating chocolate is good!
Just don’t go to town on a whole pint of Death by Chocolate (my personal favorite). Eat a small amount of chocolate while you are preparing a healthy snack or meal.
Whatever bad sh*t is bringing you down, put a positive spin on it.
I have this bizarre gift of being able to find a positive in every single situation. I’m not kidding when I say this.
Even the most horrible things that have happened to me.
How to turn a negative situation into a positive one.
Here’s an example. When I was a kid about 9 years old, I was drowning in a pool of water.
(I’ll share the story of how it happened another time.)
This is about your happiness. Let’s get back on topic…
I was taking in water, drowning. On a beautiful sunny day. Surrounded by happy kids who were swimming, laughing and having fun.
Meanwhile, I was suffocating. I was taking in water and drowning in a chlorine filled (and who knows what else) public pool. After my short bout of panic (trying to grab peoples feet to get help) I suddenly gave in. I realized that this was the end. Oddly, I felt a moment of blissful peace.
Kind of like in the movies. You know, like when the white light suddenly appears out of the clouds.
Then suddenly, someone grabbed me. It was the girl who almost killed me. She lifted me up and carried me to the edge of the pool. Where I gagged and coughed trying to breathe again.
Which felt even worse than the drowning itself.
Not to mention the humiliation I felt in front of everyone. Especially, in front of the cute lifeguards.
Because the lifeguards are always cute, right?
The three positive and most important things that have come of this are: I started taking my daughters to swim class at a very young age. I will never regret the chilly mommy and me swim classes we went to.
They continued to take swim classes until I knew both my girls could swim well.
I too finally learned how to swim. I took adult swim classes as soon as I could afford them. I was in my twenties when I finally learned how to swim.
It just goes to show you, it’s never too late to learn something new.
The most important thing I learned which is also the most valuable positive thing. That I can spin out of this dire situation is that I am not afraid of dying.
Maybe it’s because I know the things I have accomplished in my life are enough. The people I have helped and the lives I have touched. Or maybe it was that moment of bliss I felt.
There was no fear.
So what lots of people consider the worst case scenario being death, I do not.
The worst case scenario for me is that I die unhappy. Nothing will stop me from trying to make as many people feel happier before that happens.
Making other people happy can make you feel happier.
That’s what makes me feel happy. When I help other people.
Whether it’s to help you lose weight or to try to find a happier career path… Or to write that book you’ve been thinking about. The one that’s eating you up inside.
It makes no difference to me. As long as I can help at least one person.
Some business experts would say that my website is “confusing” to visitors. The message isn’t always clear.
So here is what it is all about: How you can feel happier.
If you want to feel happier check out my list of products. It’s a mixed bag of stuff. I guess I’m still trying to figure out what makes me feel happier.
So kill me – I’m not afraid.
Contact me now if you need help growing your business through the Power of Writing. Or starting your own business…
Here’s what one happy client told me:
“I really love your way with words. You’re friggin talented Irene. I love how you write. It gave me chills.”
~Jennelle Gordon
Founder of Beyond Freedom
Books and online marketing are my specialties. Check out my about page to schedule a live consultation here: Learn more…
5 Things You Should Know Before Starting a Blog
This a re-post with changes from a different article. It is the Introduction from the book “5 Things You Should Know Before Starting a Blog.” You can download a free copy below.
Discover 5 things every Entrepreneur should know about starting a blog or business. Even if you already own your own business or are just starting out. Keep reading to learn 5 things I share from my 25+ years in sales and marketing and owning a business.
Including a *secret* Marketing Tip that can make any product fly off the shelves. This one thing can work for any product in any type of business.
When owning a business you are always keeping up with the latest technology. Constantly looking to keep up a steady stream of incoming business. Which is why I want to talk a little about blogging. Blogging is a business tool that can be used to grow your business, build a relationship with your customers (or clients) and increase sales. It can also be used as a business platform in itself, as an online business. This type of online business is called a Blog or a Money Making Website.
Whether you’ve thought of starting a blog or not, the information in this book can apply to just about any type of business.
If you have thought about starting a blog, either as your business or to enhance it, then here are a couple reasons you should. One, to build trust with you target market by solving a problem. In the form of relevant information. Secondly, to help you create business that will bring you wealth, happiness and freedom.
You can use it to sell products online. In the form of eBooks, courses, services, physical products or affiliate products related to your industry. If you are new to the online world, you might be thinking, why would someone want to buy information online.
When you can find just about any information for free on the internet?
It’s true that there is a lot of free information on the internet. But how much of the stuff you’re finding is accurate information? In fact, the internet is filled with so much information that you often don’t know what to believe. Or who to trust. Making it even more important to find good information. That most people are willing to pay for. Especially if it solves an immediate need.
Why You Should Start a Blog.
You are unique. You are the only person who can share your personal experiences. Making you irreplaceable and extremely valuable. A common fear among new bloggers and business owners is what if no one will buy my products. Especially if you are just starting out or if your industry is saturated with competition. Established business owners already throwing around social proof and income statements like confetti.
Here’s the thing. People don’t necessarily buy your products or services.
What people are buying is you.
Because they can relate to you and your past experiences. You have the knowledge and the resources to help them solve a problem. Which brings up a good point. Why you should share personal stories. It creates a level of intimacy. Your readers and followers connect with you. They begin to feel like they know you which builds trust.
If they trust you, they are more likely to buy from you.
Which is why blogging is so effective and how you can use it to grow your business. By sharing what you know, along with your unique life experiences. Then using them to help people solve a problem.
The famous motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you can just help other people get what they want.”
Which is why I wrote this book. To help you succeed.
Helping people makes me happy.
Isn’t that what it’s all about? Being happy?
One of my richest life experiences was when I volunteered for the Disaster Action Team for the American Red Cross. For four years I devoted my free time to aiding families in need of food, shelter and clothing.
There were challenges, like there are with everything in life.
The many appreciative people who thanked me profusely for my help, made it worth it. Just like it is with owning a business. Despite the challenges your overall experience should be rewarding.
The rewards of having more money, time and flexibility.
When you are spending your time building your own business, it doesn’t feel like work. Especially if you are in the right business. When your business is about something you care about, it becomes fun.
Building a business is not easy. At least not for most of us.
You need to constantly promote your business, create great content, products and services. Learn how to monetize your blog and most of all you cannot quit.
You Can Succeed.
I will honestly tell you that if you are going to give up when things get tough, you might want to save yourself the trouble.
If you haven’t realized it, I already shared three of the things every business owner should know.
The first One is that owning a business is tougher than you would expect. Even if things are going great with your business now. Anything can happen. Prepare yourself for the unexpected and don’t give up.
You cannot quit if you want to be successful.
Two is that you can everything you want in life, if you help as many people as possible get what they want.
Download the full story below…
“5 Things You Should Know Before Starting a Blog” is a FREE eBook. It shares more than 5 things, every entrepreneur should know before starting a blog. Including: A *Secret* Marketing Tip that helped a brand new product fly off store shelves. The product is still being sold in almost every grocery store in America.
Plus, one thing that can make every entrepreneur more money in any type of business. Enter your email below to download your eBook now.
Why You Should Write a Book
A few years ago, I was watching a popular morning show on one of the major networks. Tim Larkin, author of “Surviving the Unthinkable” was demonstrating self-defense techniques and promoting his book.
Watching the show ignited two things inside me. Fear and envy.
I ordered the book immediately.
Every few months, I pick it up and read it again. I don’t want to be one of the many women who’ve joined the “Me Too” movement. I prefer to create a new movement.
“Not Me”
By protecting myself. And creating the kind of power and income to protect myself from as many horrible things as possible.
Like debt, stress, limited choices, narcissists, stalkers, becoming a victim and envy.
Why was I envious?
I have always wanted to be a published author. Not sure why exactly. Maybe because I love to write. Or because I’ve always been a bookworm.
I was a little envious of the man on television promoting his book. Not because he was on television. I’ve been on TV. Not that big a deal.
Because he was a “published author.”
This might not mean much to you. But to me? At one time I wanted to be a writer and a journalist. I was shot down by an English teacher, who told me “You’re a bad writer.” He wasn’t even an English teacher. He was an unemployed substitute, taking the place of my real English teacher, while on a leave of absence.
My dreams were crushed. Yet another way, we can become victimized.
It was a big deal to me.
I finally did it. I wrote, published and sold my first book within a couple of weeks.
Once I set my mind to it and set a goal.
Like Tim Larkin, I have knowledge about something people want. And Need. To lose weight, feel great and live a happier and healthier life.
You do too.
We all have a superpower.
You have a superpower. Something that you can teach others. Writing a book is one of the best way to reach millions of people who need what you can teach.
Who can benefit from your knowledge and experience.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Too many people die without achieving their dreams.
Don’t say “Me Too.” Say Not Me.
Download your FREE checklist to start writing your book now.
How to Look Younger
Have you ever looked in your medicine cabinet and thought “this is where eye creams come to die?”
I have. And it isn’t pretty.
I’m not sure when my obsession with ant-aging creams began. Even though people are always surprised by how young I look – for my age.
Is that even a compliment?
Over the years I have tried at least a dozen different eye creams. Everything from the most expensive brands to drug store over the counter creams.
Spending hundreds, possibly thousands of dollars hoping the answer lies somewhere within one of the many half empty bottles.
There is no way of knowing how many bottles I have gone through.
Or how much money I have spent. If you’re counting face wash, face moisturizers, face masks, anti-wrinkle pads and crazy roller things. You know that thing you roll on your face. That feels like tiny little pin pricks. It supposedly helps the moisturizer sink deeper into your skin.
It took me a while to realize that the answer does not lie in a jar. Or a bottle. Or a tube.
Don’t get me wrong, there are many great moisturizers and face products you can use. Every person is different and different products work differently for everyone.
I honestly don’t think it makes that much of a difference which brand you use. As long as you moisturize and stay hydrated.
The answers may not come from a jar. Or lie in the most expensive skin creams.
However, there are actionable steps you can take today that can make you look up to 10 years younger.
Since people claim that I do.
Look at least 10 years younger than my age that is. I figured I would share what I’m doing to stay youthful, vibrant, full of energy and young looking.
In the following chapters you will discover how you too, can look up to 10 years younger.
