The Antidote to Overwhelm

"The most common reaction to overwhelm is paralysis. Taking any action flips us from a thinking/analyzing mode to heightened creativity." ~Charlon Bobo

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A Bright Alternative for Holiday Gift-Giving

With the holidays quickly approaching, I am inundated with holiday gift guides. No doubt you are as well.

The emphasis on purchasing consumer goods as a means to show appreciation or honor connection is a peculiar notion to me. I don’t ‘get’ it. I purchase no gifts; not because I stand on any principle, but because what I have to give is something more valuable than anything I have ever seen offered for sale.

My present to others is my presence, whether or not it’s the holidays. That is the greatest gift I can give. Full presentness is precious. It is rare. And it is something only I can give to those in my life circle.

I understand why people buy gifts. It’s easy. Digging deep, listening attentively, setting aside time to really connect, allowing someone to share their life and inner thoughts, making a memory, and being nowhere but in the moment is a treasure, a true gift with merit and meaning.

Our lives are so frantic that we often miss the many moments of life that bring the greatest satisfaction; the moment of now, here, connecting, time suspended until the experience has served its full purpose.

Give the gift of yourself this season; fully present.

Happy holidays!

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An Impression In The Ether

Randomly opening a book I found while unpacking, I read this:

"Sometimes we must go on living longer than we'd like with the choices we made before we knew better."

While it's true our outer circumstances don't change the moment our words, thoughts and actions change, the energetic shift is immediate. There is an instant resonance in the ether, with manifestation on the physical plane soon to follow.

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The Feminine Divine ~ How It Shows Up In Business

Entrepreneurship is shifting dramatically and the aligned female influence cannot be ignored. The feminine:

• brings a sense of community to business
• is cooperative because we know that is the road to thriving
• achieves results by nurturing others
• wants all members of our tribe to succeed
• encourages others
• challenges others with love
• champions others with kind accountability methods
• celebrates milestones and goal attainment

There is no doubt--with the shifting business paradigm in full swing--women have made a powerful impression and will continue to do so. Our innate gifts as birthers of new ideology will change the face of entrepreneurship so much that soon the old façade won't be recognizable. It's the dawning of a new age and we're the luminaries.

Allowing intuition, spirituality and pure intent to guide us, we're in a very powerful position to creative positive and lasting change. The way business is conducted will never be the same.

Let me go back to my reference of "aligned female" and elaborate for the fullest understanding.

Being born female (a gender identification) does not an empowered woman make!

It's vital to understand that being strong, allowing the feminine divine to be honored in our words, thoughts and actions, referring to ourselves as "conscious," embracing our roles as leaders and visionaries, and intentionally creating our lives, is a journey... the journey of a lifetime.

The aligned woman is so much more than female. She:

• has a vested interest in bringing her best to everything she does
• willingly surrenders her plan to the wisdom of the Universe
• commits on every level to the ever-unfolding process of life
• pushes on with courage, no matter how hard the task
• walks with herself, if necessary, so as not to dilute her efforts and energy with anything/anyone that might take her off-course
• graciously serves others in accordance with her innate talents and gifts
• models integrity because it's the core of who she is and how she conducts the business of her life
• celebrates her unique talents-removing all hindrances to shining brilliantly-because she understands this world benefits from her exceptional contribution
• is bold in her approach to life because there's no value in standing for nothing
• accepts herself as-is, always

Modeling empowered divine femininity has many rewards; and it also comprises great responsibility; to whom much is given, much is required. Wielding power with benevolence requires a solid understanding that true power never attempts to manipulate, dominate or control. Only insecurity behaves that way. We are actively defining the future of business with our actions. We are creating something uniquely feminine.

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Dare To Dream

Overcomers, Inc: True stories of Hope, Courage, and Inspiration had a magnificent launch day on October 22nd, hitting #1 best-seller status in 3 categories (motivational, inspirational and spiritual) on Amazon.com and #43 in the Amazon top 100. This remarkable success was engineered by a huge team lead by brilliant online marketer Kathleen Gage of Street Smarts Marketing and Lynne Klippel of Love Your Life Publishing.

Reaching published author status was a dream come true. Reaching best-selling author status was beyond my wildest dreams. It hadn't even occurred to me to dream this big and it happened anyway.

Less than a week after Overcomers, Inc. hit best-seller status, a publisher in China contacted the publisher to inquire about purchasing the rights to print it there.

I share my experience to make this point: Dare to dream your wildest dreams. As best you can, release all limitations. Take strategic action steps EVERY DAY toward your goal; you'll get there. If you imagine, it (whatever 'it' is) can be yours.

In my personal experience, I just kept the image alive and took the appropriate actions so it would eventually have a place to manifest. It took years. But finally all circumstances, people and events were aligned to bring this book to life.

I wish for you the courage to dream big. And then dream even bigger!

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EditCopyProof NEWS

Press Release: Charlon Bobo becomes a Bestselling Author with Overcomers, Inc: True Stories Of Hope, Courage And Inspiration, Compiled By Lynne Klippel

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An Author's Perspective On Realizing a Dream

This is better than a childhood Christmas morning!

Today, October 22, 2009 my 37 co-authors and I will have achieved our personal goals of becoming published authors. Personally, the deep sense of satisfaction I'm feeling comes from so much more. To have my first published book be of such extraordinary caliber is way beyond what I ever allowed myself to dream. The blessings and benefits just keep coming.

Overcomers, Inc: True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration is the perfect book to read not only when you need a lift, but when you're in a good place and want to connect to the power of the human spirit. Filled with gripping stories from all walks of lie, Overcomers, Inc. will make you smile, move you to tears, fill you with the strength you need to face life's challenges, and equip you with time-tested tools to empowerment.

To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

Julio Blanco's Excerpt From New Book, Overcomers, Inc.

Decide and Go Seek: Overcoming Life’s Chronic Little Challenges to Let Your Purpose Shine Through


I’m amazed looking back because my life is so different now. Today I enjoy purpose-filled days in a business of my own that enables me to help others create purpose-filled lives through their own conscious businesses. I don’t even feel like I work anymore, really, because what I’ve chosen to do with my time feels more like play.

My journey taught me that God will work perfectly in our lives if you bring but one grace to the table: desire. The journey required traveling a rocky road filled with my own fears and doubts to arrive at clarity about how I wanted to live, but my desire carried me through until I was able to embrace my true life and make an unshakable commitment to living it. From there it was a matter of mustering the courage to jump in with full faith that Spirit would be there to catch me.

I also came to know that if you crave your best life, your purpose will seek you. At times we might be too busy, afraid, or distracted with the rest of life to hear our purpose calling. But if you show just an ounce of desire to live that purpose, the Universe will work like water to wither away the stone of whatever stands between you and its fulfillment.

From Overcomers, Inc.; True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

Overcomer's Book Excerpt by Tomar Levine

Growing Up After Fifty: It’s Never Too Late to Bloom

Several factors contributed to my delayed adulthood. Being an artist, single and childless, I bypassed the rites of passage and responsibilities of most adults. My Depression-era parents’ version of responsibility made adulthood look unappealing anyway. Looking young, acting young, thinking and feeling young helped create the illusion that time was barely passing, and aging did not apply to me. Finally, having a small amount of family money – enough to barely get by on – was a double-edged sword. On the one hand it allowed me to paint, write, read, and pursue the spiritual studies I was drawn to. On the other, not having to earn much income allowed me to act out my insecurities by rejecting ambition, not taking risks, and living a far smaller, more protected life than another part of me longed for.

Hiding my light under a bushel was never my plan. I wanted to be a recognized artist. Hiding one’s light is simply what happens when fear is stronger than the desire to have one’s light seen and to add value to the world. I exhibited my art for years, maintaining a miniscule career that reflected my comfort zone. But when I discovered a spiritual calling, the heat was turned up on my inner conflict and my suffering intensified!

Now it was not just for my own glory, but for something greater that I wanted my light to shine. I knew I had something to share that filled me and could inspire others – if only I could find the form. I searched for my true work the way others seek true love. Many times I thought I’d found it, yet I continued to fear risk and rejection even more than I yearned to be of service. I remained a perpetual student long after I should have been teaching, as I waited to be invited to take my place onstage. Like a corked volcano, I was full of blocked energy. I tried to convince myself that being invisible was more spiritual than releasing my life force, but secretly I felt shame. I feared I would waste my life and the gifts I had been given.

From Overcomers, Inc.; True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

Interview with Charlon Bobo of EditCopyProof.com re: authorship of new book Overcomers, Inc.

1. How did you get started writing?
   
   I have loved words since childhood. Writing has been my favorite activity in every professional position I have ever held, but my passion was ignited when I realized I could do it to serve others. My business focus is on inspiring and empowering female entrepreneurs with a conscious approach to wordsmithing solutions, e.g. copywriting, copyediting, ghostwriting, online marketing, etc. With a clear understanding of the responsibility of using my talents to enhance the success of others, it makes the exercise of writing a pure joy.
   
   
2. What do you do when you are not writing?
   
   I am told my interests are eclectic and unusual, but I wouldn’t know because it’s just me being who I am. I love diversity and it definitely shows in my colorful tapestry of activities. When I’m not writing, I can be found making soap, in the kitchen concocting delectable desserts, creating dinner for friends from farm-fresh ingredients, having tea or wine with my girlfriends, reading at the beach, walking in a forest, enjoying cultural activities, gardening or napping.
   
   
3. What would readers like to know about you?
   
   I live my life as a means of enjoying the gift it is, but I am also crystal clear that modeling overcoming behavior is one of my primary purposes. There isn’t any particular magic to it; it’s simply a matter of deciding that every experience will serve a high purpose. Living that helps others find a way to do it in their own lives.
   
   
4. What inspired you to be a contributing author in Overcomers, Inc.?
   
   Simply? The power of the message. When we share our life experiences as a means to support and empower each other, the possibilities are limitless. I have spoken about transparency for years and it is only in sharing the rawness of life, our low points, our challenges, our moments of heartbreak that we realize we’re not alone and some how, some way, we, too will find a way.
   
   
5. Why is the topic of Overcoming important to you?
   
   Because it’s human. Not one person on this planet will escape the necessity for overcoming something. I am here to assist others in recognizing that overcoming is a choice. Circumstance has no inherent power to dictate our future. We can chose to be overcomers in spite of external circumstance.
   
   
6. Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?
   
   Because I’ve proven I’m an overcomer; my life experience clearly shows that. The best way to learn how to do something is to learn from someone who’s already done it. I have moved beyond childhood sexual molestation and anyone in that same situation can be empowered by the conscious choice to use the experience to propel them toward health, wholeness and happiness.
   
   
7. How many books have you written?
   
   This is my very first book published by a publisher, although I have two works-in-progress to be self-published in early 2010.
   
   
8. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?
   
   The genres are self-explanatory given the titles. My two soon-to-be-self-published books are:
   
   1. Write Your eBook Using a Trusted and Proven System
   While Maintaining Your Busy Life: a comprehensive step-by-step guide to ensure a marketable and income-generating eBook using reliable insider copywriting,
   ghostwriting & online marketing techniques
   
   AND
   
   2. From Trauma To Triumph: Beyond Childhood Molestation
   Proven Techniques to Ignite Self-Healing in 30 Daily Explorations
   
   
9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?
   
   With strict adherence to the plan I establish at the beginning of the book writing process. Accountability is a key to success!
   
   
10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?
    
    Definitely both. To me, writing is like breathing; I need it to live. And I also need money to live so my writing serves me on that level, as well.
    
    
11. What makes you proud about your involvement with Overcomers, Inc.?
    
    I am most proud to share what makes so many people uncomfortable. Unless we begin talking openly and honestly about topics our society considers to be taboo--like childhood sexual molestation--we cannot move beyond and live with the understanding that it’s only external circumstance. It has no true power over us.
    
    I am not minimizing the impact. I am simply saying it does not define me and it doesn't have to define others who have had the same experience.
    
    
12. Will you write more books?
    
    Absolutely! There are volumes inside me bursting to come forth!
    
    
13. What do you have in the works now?
    
    Besides my two other books? A growing list of topics for which there are very few experts, including the new relationship paradigm and women truly understanding the nature of standing in their personal power.
    
    
14. What does the future hold for you and your books?
    
    Greater and greater opportunities to serve others with the insights and inspirations that come directly from the divine.
    
    
15. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?
    
    It is raw. It is real. And it cuts to the heart of HOW to overcome. These aren’t polite, politically-correct stories of trivial life matters. They are hard-earned lessons from people who have gone through the fire, come out the other side, and are genuinely grateful for the experience because it showed them how strong and resourceful they truly are.
    
    
16. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?
    
    This book is for the human race. No matter who you are, where you live, your annual income, your gender, your profession, your age, your ethnicity, your religion… you will be inspired by the stories in this book because rising from the ashes is a human experience.
    
    
17. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?
    
    Water and nature spark my creativity. Also, a necessary break. There is no shortage of ways to get the creative juices flowing, but when I’m stuck and cannot seem to get into the flow, I take a break to do something completely unrelated to the task in front of me. It consistently provides a ‘reboot’ so I can jump in again with a fresh perspective.
    
    
18. What do you think motivates people to become authors?
    
    I cannot speak for other authors. For me, it’s the opportunity to positively impact peoples' lives.
    
    
19. What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?
    
    Because it’s time in the evolutionary course of this planet to move from a patriarchy to a system influenced by the female divine. Compassion, openness, communication, collaboration… these are the crucial elements to bring humanity into full alignment and propel us forward to unity.
    
    
20. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy?
    
    I don’t believe in convincing people of anything. I trust absolutely that people know when something resonates for them. When that happens they will make a purchase.
    
    
21. What is your final message to our readers?
    
    Within you lies a vast well of resources to live the life of an overcomer. As the authors of Overcomers, Inc. we have done it. Now’s YOUR turn! Join us.

From Overcomers, Inc.; True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

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The Weed That Broke Through the Sidewalk

by Marifran Korb

Starting over has resulted in both of us being happier beyond our wildest dreams. We found the delight and self-expression we wanted. Once apart for five years, now we have been back together for twelve delightful, fun-filled, precious years. As a Joint Adoration Society, our motto is:

Together we evolve, joyful, healthy, triumphant partners in the dance of life!

Here are some things I learned through my journey:

· Staying in an unsatisfactory marriage kills your spirit and your spouse's, no matter who is the primary cause.

· You cannot take responsibility for a spouse who refuses to address his health issues. (Chronic depression is a physical problem manifesting emotionally).

· The universe is always supporting you, even though you often resist the next step.

· You own your life, and must take responsibility for your happiness and satisfaction.

· Despite the fact that you have not lived on your own for decades, as a single person again you can find your talents, support yourself financially, and experience full satisfaction.

· Friends are everywhere. Many old friends and new people show up.

· Separating can result in blessings you never imagined.

· Eventually, you may support others who have similar experiences.


Every marital situation is different. My story is not a prescription for other unhappy marriages to follow. It is an example of what may be a possible solution in some situations. What I recommend is applying courage whenever needed. At every juncture in your life, tune into your courage by listening to your inner guidance.

From Overcomers, Inc.; True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

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Getting Older (and Over!) The ”Not Enough” Syndrome by Marlene Oulton

Shortly before my 49^th birthday I decided to boldly go where many had dared to go before me and become an entrepreneur. On April 15, 2006, my company, Write Choice Virtual Assistants, was born. I had tons of administrative experience to draw upon and based my services on these skill sets. Yet in the back of my mind I kept thinking, “You know, I really love to write and proofread. Wouldn’t it be cool if I could manage to get some work along those lines?”

By this time the Universe, God, and I had formed a formidable triangle of mutual respect and love, so I shouldn’t have been surprised when requests to proofread/edit and write articles, ebooks, website content etc. started to flow into my inbox. I had finally become “enough.”

I have now redefined ”enough” in my world today as follows:

• If I treat people with love, kindness and respect, that is “enough.”

• If I have a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and food on my table, that is ”enough.”

• If I can help another human being on this journey called life, that is ”enough.”

• If I do my work conscientiously, with care and love, that is ”enough.”

• If I am at peace with and within myself, that is ”enough.”

May you be more ”enough” than you ever imagined possible!

From Overcomers, Inc.; True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

From Trauma To Triumph: One Woman’s Empowering Journey From Fragmented Child To Conscious Entrepreneur (excerpt from book Overcomers, Inc.)

As strange as it even seems to me at times, the lessons of my childhood journey are applicable to every aspect of my life, including the everyday operations of my soulful business. As a conscious entrepreneur, I pull from this experience often to guide me. I’d like to share with you the five key insights of my pilgrimage:

1. Protective mechanisms are in place whether or not I realize or acknowledge them.

I don’t always understand why a project fails to materialize or a serious prospect seems to change her mind. I do know there exists an over-arching structure and order that conspires on my behalf to bring about my highest personal and professional growth. Whatever that wisdom, I can trust it absolutely.

2. My ”story” doesn’t define who I am.

I am a vibrant business owner who grows every day, and occasionally stumbles and falls on my bum! Because I constantly create myself anew, nothing from my past can effectively define or imprison me. I consciously choose to “bring my best game” to every day and know that’s enough.

3. Innate wisdom effortlessly guides me to the most opportune time to take action.

When in doubt, I do nothing until ultimate clarity presents itself. Although daily action is a crucial component in accomplishing my goals, I can also watch nature and use Her guidance to positively influence my actions. Nature provides a silent, fallow season – winter – to turn inward to rest and restore. Using this model, I reap the most benefit from my efforts. Smart living requires me to balance action with equal inaction.

4. My history doesn’t determine my level of success.

I can accomplish any lofty goal I imagine regardless of any perceived limitations. The past doesn’t dictate my future. I gift myself the pleasure and freedom to envision a life of my design. Family-of-origin, childhood circumstances, real or perceived impediments, lack of skills, none of these compare to the capacity of the human spirit to realize dreams.

5. I choose victimhood or empowerment every day with my words, thoughts, and actions.

We do not control the actions of others and yet we may be drawn into their drama. Like cast members of a play, energetically we agreed to these roles to teach AND learn. No matter my external circumstances, my responses can only come from one of two places: damage or abundance. I choose abundance.

May you be profoundly blessed by reading my story and take from it any value that forever nourishes your soul.

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From Overcomers, Inc.; True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. To get your own copy and receive dozens of bonus gifts go to http://www.overcomersbook.com/booklaunch

How To Maintain Your Article Marketing Campaign With Quick Article Writing Method

Article marketing is an important key to establishing and maintaining your expertise on the Web. It also goes a long way in ensuring your audience keeps coming back because you have interesting, fresh content.

With the daily demands on your time, however, your article marketing campaign often gets relegated to the background. It’s not that you think it’s unimportant, but somehow other tasks continually take precedence, with varying degrees of negative impact to your business.

What if you had an easy, proven system to producing lots of articles? Here’s how, and I promise it works because in less than one hour, this article was written using this very method:

1. Choose a topic that’s easy for you to write about without the need for research
2. Choose key words(s)
3. Choose key points
4. Set your timer for 20 minutes
5. Write or type without thinking, editing, reviewing or proofing. Just get the information out of your head
6. Wait a minimum of 30 minutes (start another article or do something else)
7. Set your timer for 10 minutes
8. Quickly restructure article for organization and logical flow
9. Strategically place or double-check placement of your keyword(s)
10. Wait a minimum of 30 minutes (start another article or do something else)
11. Set your timer for a maximum of 10 minutes.
12. Proofread for grammar and punctuation
13. Set your timer for 5 minutes.
14. Write as many dynamic titles for your article as possible
15. Choose the article title with the most impact
16. Review article one final time for organization, flow, grammar, spelling and punctuation (or delegate a final review to your virtual assistant or editor)
17. Publish or post article on article distribution sites like ezinearticles.com


Using this method is incredibly effective in producing articles in less than an hour, without compromising quality. If you did this daily, or even weekly, you could quickly accumulate 365 or 52 articles (respectively) every year. If you have one hour, you have one article to promote yourself, your products or services. Article writing doesn’t have to be daunting. Just get started with an effective system that delivers… every time.

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It Takes a Village To Overcome

Having a support network is vital to wholesome, healthy living.

In times of bounty and bliss, the company of others provides an opportunity to share our highs. It allows us a moment to be celebrated and honored by our community, which is actually a celebration of us all.

In life's more challenging moments, being surrounded by our tribe gives them the opportunity to encourage and support us until we recapture the magic of everyday living.

Sharing and receiving are components that create the vast fullness, the beautiful contrast of this physical plane. Life is a constant ebb and flow. There are highs, there are lows and there is so much in-between.

In times of hardship, having the unconditional and unshakable comfort of a village, whether actual or virtual, is the component that helps us get through; one more moment, one more day, one more week, until once again we have the capacity to help others overcome their own experiences.

We do not exist to struggle alone. The weight of life is made much lighter with the loving presence of an entire village of support.

Get your F*R*E*E eBook written by a village of inspired authors Overcoming Adversity With Grace.

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Too Many Words Undermine Your Copywriting Efforts

I saw this recently in an article about copywriting:

'However, before you begin your copywriting venture it is essential to know the basics about copywriting so that you can channelize your creative skill in the right direction and open the doorways for millions to flow into your treasure house.'

Channelize? Open the doorways for millions? (Learning copywriting basics will deliver millions? Really?) Your treasure house?

High-impact copywriting is succinct AND avoids the use of colloquialisms (e.g. treasure house). If I were hired to edit this paragraph, this is how it would look:

'However, before beginning your copywriting career, learn the basics. Knowing the essentials is vital to writing captivating content, thereby opening additional channels of revenue.'

Although the first version is colorful, it requires readers to work to understand its meaning.

Too much work = disinterested reader

When your audience has to read and reread your content to gain understanding, their frustration level increases and instead of intriguing them, you lose them... maybe permanently. If you're trying to build your marketing list, establish yourself as an expert or increase sales, obviously losing a reader won't deliver the results you desire.

In copywriting, every word must pull its weight. Words are used strategically and chosen specifically to deliver the most impact. Writing isn't an accidental business activity. Your efforts must be smart, focused and speak effectively to your market... as succinctly as possible.

So, how do you do that?

Here are 7 insider copywriting tips for writing and editing highly-effective, targeted marketing content:

1. Know your target market before writing anything
2. Use fewer words for your first draft (you can always add more later, if necessary)
3. Create an outline. Make each point, provide a brief explanation and move on
4. Avoid words that don't 'pull their own weight'
5. Review content with a keen eye for brevity (and be aggressive with the delete button!)
6. Review content asking yourself how to say something more effectively with fewer words
7. Review content for all words-or strings of words-that aren't widely understood or causes your reader to 'work' to understand the meaning (e.g. colloquialisms, vernacular terms, idioms, or jargon)

Implementing these 7 tools is a solid foundation for copywriting that accomplishes your marketing goals.

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Article Marketing: Keyword QuickTip

Strategic placement of your keywords is an important component in your successful article marketing campaign. Keywords should be placed in the:

1. title
2. first sentence
3. last paragraph of the article
4. resource box whenever possible

Keyword phrases shouldn't be overused. This is called "keyword stuffing" and you can be penalized by search engines.

Saturation percentages (the number of times your keyword(s) show up in your article] recommended by industry experts range from 3% to 10%, although the higher the inclusion percentage, the harder it is to retain the interest of the reader. The reason is: keywords become repetitive and sound like advertising. The way around this is to maintain a 3-5% inclusion rate while focusing on writing interesting content.

The most effective articles are a delicate balance between:

• strategic keyword placement
• keyword repetition
• engaging, creative copy

Based on my personal experience, this is an art. It isn't easy; especially at first. Keyword article writing requires a switch-in-thinking. As with anything though, your efforts and skills improve with practice. Happy article writing!

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Which Takes Prominence - Service to Others Or Monetizing Business Activities?

Based on my observations, when business owners focus on making money first, service to others often suffers. However, when those same business owners shift their focus instead to "service first," the ideas and money seem to flow much easier.

Why?

I cannot say definitively because many factors are involved, but let's explore what's behind each approach.

Money first

Until we live in a society in which each person takes only what s/he needs and gives in equal measure based on individual abundance, choices, talents and strengths (this is the subject of a very different article!), we all agree cash money is the method of exchange for goods and services.

Okay. With that said, when we approach business with a "how can I monetize my _______________ (ideas, newsletter, information, Web site, expertise, etc.)" mindset, inherent is a myopic perspective. Our viewpoint is so narrow, we limit ourselves without even realizing it. A "Money first" mentality can only ever deliver money first... above everything else. Service takes its place as a second priority, if at all.

Service (and people) first

When we grow business based on how we can best serve others and that is the heart's true desire, a spiritual/magical element is introduced to facilitate our success. It not only allows us to achieve our money-based goals, but it does so in a much more creative and supported fashion. On some level it just "makes sense" and "feels better" based on recent energetic and cultural reprioritizations around money.

A "Service and People first" mentality delivers results and relationships. Money and deep fulfillment just seem to follow organically.

There's nothing wrong with money. Depending on your personal relationship with money, though, it can be hard to generate more by focusing exclusively on money first. What makes the process easier is opening up to greater possibility. It begins by asking yourself...

How can I best serve others with my efforts?

A simple shift in thinking is all that's required. The result is a beautiful fusion that meets both economic needs and philanthropic desires.

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Female Entrepreneurs: Stop Negotiating Your True Value

As conscious entrepreneurs, we artistically combine our expertise with a focus on service to humankind. In an attempt to "help" our clients, we can find ourselves in the position of negotiating our prices.

Let me ask you: How many $10K business events can you afford to attend right now? If you say, "None," you'd be joining with the majority of entrepreneurs in the same position.

Do you think the speaker at one of these events is concerned that you cannot afford it? Nope. Enough can, and will pay the admittance fee because the content promised is worth every penny... and probably more.

Is your financial situation the concern of the speaker? Nope.

Should s/he even care that you perceive you're being excluded? Nope.

There are tons of experiences you may not be able to afford. That's simply not anyone else's concern. And it shouldn't be.

Let's look at this from another angle: It's very likely your products or services are not accessible to a portion of the worldwide population. Should you make special accommodations so they are accessible to everyone? Nope. Why not? Because that's probably not the reason you started your business.

The bottom line is: You're in business to make money.

When we provide a cost quote and our client says, "I just cannot afford it," the natural thing to do - especially as female entrepreneurs - is respond by making accommodations. We reduce our prices, throw in additional hours or products, or offer payment options.

If we are willing to sell off and negotiate rates, we're essentially saying,

"My (products or) services are worth the value
YOU place on them."

Yikes and holy, moly. You will be back into corporate chaos in no time if that's how you truly approach business.

I heard it said recently that negotiating does two things:

1. It reinforces my lack consciousness
2. It reinforces my clients' lack consciousness

Whew! That's harsh. Take a deep breath and read it again. If you see yourself in this discussion, it's never too late to begin honoring your value.

Let's explore each of these points.

How does negotiating reinforce my lack consciousness?

Entering into negotiations is an activity that places you in a disempowered position. It leaves you explaining your rates. It forces you to invest precious time for which you will not be able to bill. It dishonors the thousands of hours you've invested in becoming a professional who has a valuable service to offer.

When it comes to your value and your business, the last place you want to find yourself is tied up in the trunk! That's where negotiating leaves you. Instead you need to be in the driver's seat.

Lack consciousness is the perpetual lie you tell yourself with your words, thoughts and actions. It is you telling you - in the most subtle and damaging way - somehow you don't deserve the rates you charge because you're just not worth it.

Who determines our worth?

We do.

Before you sigh in resignation and think we have to delve into your childhood to find the answers of why you're where you are in life and think the way you do, relax. We don't have to dredge up anything. We are going to start right here, right now.

I'm going to share something with you that contains the secret to unlocking a completely new approach... one that leaves you newly empowered and clear on the FACT that you are worth every bit of your fee. As soon as you encompass this, I want you to expand this concept and double your rates!

Bold?

Yes, that's why we're here... to continually push the edge of self-comfort and familiarity to explore what lies beyond.

The secret? It's so simple. Every time you find yourself hesitating when someone asks you your rates, wanting to make special accommodations because your client "cannot afford it," or beginning to think of ways to make it work for your client, say aloud:

"I destroy and uncreate everything
I believe I was and am.
I destroy and uncreate myself today."

How does this set you on a new path of declaring your worth?

Tell me yourself after you've said this AT LEAST twice daily (upon waking and upon retiring, and as circumstances arise during the day) for a mere 30 days.

You will not be the same person. You will sit up straighter. Your voice will not falter when you speak truth to your value in the form of your rates. You will be deeply empathetic when fellow entrepreneurs express their woes in not being able to afford you, but still, your rates stand as-is. Doesn't that sound profoundly freeing and powerful? Isn't it worth a try?

(A natural question surfaces: "When I destroy and uncreate, with what do I full the vacuum?" Answer: Nothing. Spiritually speaking, you cannot destroy or uncreate the truest essence of you, so you don't have to worry about undoing and end up as nothing. This exercise can only deliver a more aligned version of you; a version that knows innately you're worth even more than you're currently charging! And when you're ready, you''ll increase your rates yet again to match the ever-growing confidence to be compensated based on a value YOU assign.)

How does negotiating reinforce my clients' lack consciousness?

As business owners, we are (hopefully) modeling good business practices. With our words, thoughts and actions, we must convey resolute confidence in our talents.. and service rates.

If I negotiate my rates, I enable, or reinforce, my clients' false beliefs (that they cannot manifest adequate funds to hire me, as an example)... beliefs I don't even hold to be true. I become the last link in a very long chain of life experiences that reinforces their "truths" - beliefs founded in limitation (the inability to manifest funds to pay for professional services).

I do them no favors by engaging or entertaining this notion. It is the essence of a co-dependent collaboration and in the words of one friend, "You will only see asses and elbows!" (Interpretation: I will run away as fast as I can from this scenario.)

There are plenty of writers who will negotiate rates. I'm not one of them. I know my value and it is my intent to show you yours.

Our clients need to know we are 100% confident in the value of our contribution to their success.

You see,

our confidence and silent resolve
instills a level of confidence in our clients
Perceived value is everything. If you are sure about your rates, it makes clients think, "Wow, Charlon must be really good if she charges $495 for an hour-long consultation. One way or another, I must find a way to work with her!"

Now, no single negotiation is inherently catastrophic to our businesses. But, over time these actions serve to erode our sense of self-value. Don't even set this pattern in motion!

As appropriate and inspired, we can occasionally barter, negotiate or even donate our time, but these practices cannot be the foundation of our business.

How do you maintain a sense of service to others AND a commitment to maintaining the value of your time?

Begin today. If this is an issue with which you struggle, it's simply an unexercised muscle. The Marines have a saying, "Pain is weakness leaving the body." There's no need to be pained any longer by the subtle and ever-eroding impact of negotiating. You will never grow a solid business on a weak foundation of changing the rules every time a client cannot afford you.

If you're willing to trade your vast and precious life knowledge as if it has no value, it won't... for you or anyone else. Remember: We teach people how to treat us.

How do you respond when clients cannot afford your rates or want to negotiate?

The answer is obvious and simple. Without saying, "No," you plant seeds of thought and leave the future client (I'm being highly optimistic here!) with several options. Here are sample responses to give you some ideas:

1. "My clients benefit from expert copywriting in too many ways to count. I know when you have the funds, you'll make this a priority. Based on the experience of former clients, professional copywriting dramatically increases exposure and sales. In the mean time, here are some referrals to learn more about copywriting so when we begin working together, you'll already have insider knowledge of the process."


2. "I completely understand the challenges of delegating funds for copywriting. When I started my first company, I did everything myself. I thought I had to learn and know how to do it all and that left me frustrated and exhausted. It was such a key to learn to delegate tasks to professionals. When I did that, I noticed a huge energy boost and increased profits! I see so much potential in your vision and would love to help you with expert copywriting when the time is right. Until then, feel free to download my free report, Exclusively For Entrepreneurs: Expert Copywriter Reveals Easy 9-Facet Formula to Proof-Perfect Copy... Every Time"


3. "When you hire me, my efforts are laser-focused on achieving measurable results. If I negotiate rates, I would be doing a disservice to myself and those entrepreneurs who know the value of a wise business investment... like professional copywriting. I would love to work with you based on the original proposal amount emailed to you."

As you can see, the details of this topic are manageable 100 different ways. The bottom line is: Stop negotiating. Your personal and professional values are at stake! Treat them as the treasures they are.

Thoughts on Overcoming Life Transitions

In honor of the most inspiring and fiercely courageous woman I know, whose father transitioned this week, Lynne Klippel this is for you, dear friend.

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Most people associate 'overcoming' with getting past life events that impact us the most, including someone dear returning to Source.

Much less than getting through, overcoming is allowing the full impact of the moment to reveal the sacredness within, to sit in silence, allowing the depth and fullness of what is to embrace us.

Being an overcomer isn't about rushing through life's experiences-any of them-to find relief or feel better, for relief in any form is not the goal. Making peace within the current moment in its innate perfection is where overcomers find themselves because it is in this sweet spot that we are most connected to the beauty of what is.

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For more insights on the topic of overcoming and to receive a free eBook titled Overcoming Adversity With Grace visit Overcomers, Inc.

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Grandeur Within, Whatever The Circumstance

If in retrospect we see that things always work out, we can use this same clarity in the midst of struggles, and even before they appear in our lives. Regardless of external life circumstances, we are guided and empowered, full of courage and fully-equipped to reveal the grandeur that lies within.

For other inspirations, access the FREE eBook, Overcoming Adversity with Grace.

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The How's and Why's of Shifting From Conventional Business Marketing to Conscious Marketing

We are in the midst of a massive shift in how business is conducted. Heart-based, conscious business practices and integrity have made their way into the marketing methods of spirit-based entrepreneurs.

It's about time.

Ten years ago I was told by several trusted mentors, coaches and industry leaders that my ideas just weren't "how things are done." Listening to them went against my inner knowing, but I followed their expert guidance because I assumed they knew better. They were veterans in business, after all; I wasn't.

Not one of them suggested I trust--and act on--my inner-knowing, even if it went against convention. Not one of them said I was just ahead of my time and to use existing methods while integrating my own conscious principles.

It was incredibly frustrating to listen to advice from people I was paying to advise me because there was a louder, undeniable clarity screaming from within. As hard as I tried to apply and use their tried-and-true templates, they didn't work the same for me.

It would take me many years of trying to integrate what was clearly working for others--and having these techniques NOT work for me--before I realized the only way for me was MY WAY. I would have to figure it out for myself, use my intuition to guide me and be a bold voice to integrate soulfulness and entrepreneurship. Not only did it resonate for me, but I knew there was a place for it within the mainstream. Some how, some way I was going to find out how to make it work. In retrospect, all I needed to do was wait. Admittedly, waiting wasn't easy.

Fast-forward ten years later and here we are; high profile business owners now signing their emails with "In Service," or "Blessings," and infusing their marketing content with transparency and love. What a refreshing change!

And much more than refreshing, this heartful approach has a dramatic and beneficial ripple-effect on our society. Mutually-beneficial collaborations are established every day. We help others succeed while they help us. We create supportive communities in which we all thrive. And the masses, our clients and prospects, are responding.

Being courageous and speaking truth and authenticity in all areas of our lives puts us on the front lines. While it may be an uncomfortable role, the irony is: soulfully and energetically, many business owners agreed to be the waymakers, the lightworkers, the path clearers, the visionaries, the knowers.

We feel comfortable in these roles in our personal lives, but somehow in business we think different rules apply. They don't.

What was once important to separate--home life and work life--now melds into one life encompassing all endeavors, personal and professional.

So, how do we shift our thinking, make it expansive, be a model, and allow others to benefit from our unique knowledge and brilliance?

You have a sense of humor, don't you? Use it... often.

You have your own perspective, don't you? Give us an insight.

You have vulnerabilities, don't you? (Within reason) Share them and what you learn from them.

You experience challenge at times, don't you? Let us know what they are and how they expand your ability to adapt.

You have opinions, don't you? Hearing them allows us to ponder things we've never before considered.


No one can or will ever conduct business like you. That may be a good thing or a not-so-good thing, but what's most important is allowing others to get to know the real you. People buy from those they know, like and trust. Open up. Try something new. Be more vulnerable. Be more edgy in your communications by doing something out of the ordinary for you.

The heart of your business is you. Inject your unique personality with every opportunity. It's important that prospects choose you because you give them a chance to know who you truly are... as a person AND competent, conscious business owner.

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The Violence of Thought

As women we inflict violence on other women; the violence of thought.

Do we really believe our thoughts are harmless; that they have no power to inflict great damage? Do we fail to fully understand that we actively nourish or starve each other with the energy of our thoughts? Have we forgotten we are all connected? Do our synapses fail to fire with the clarity that even if we hold our tongues, we actively participate in the enslavement of each other as long as the undermining thoughts remain?

We sit smugly, silently thinking because we suppress our words, we have exhibited some gracious act; that we are innocents. In fact, we have actually committed a worse offense than giving voice to our thoughts.

The violence of thought is worse than the expression of words because it politely veils our cerebrations; the truth of our own thinking.

While desiring to appear pious and self-restrained, WE STILL HAVE thoughts of judgment, criticism, correction, blame, faultfinding, condemnation, persecution, accusation, disapproval, objection, opposition and harsh opinion.

How scheming, and how preposterous to assume we have fooled anyone but ourselves.

If we are not to speak, let us neither taint the ether—and each other—with our silently poisonous thoughts.

May we instead become consumed with the truth that the cost of toxic thoughts is too high to entertain them for even a moment.

May we consciously replace them with the power of thought-vitality that nourishes, builds, supports, comforts, cherishes, honors, nurtures, encourages, cultivates, mentors, attends, sustains, educates, shelters, reveres and values.

For it is a woman who truly understands the power of her thoughts who changes the world moment-by-moment by wisely managing every one.

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Overcomers Aren’t Special, Just Deliberate

So often we think others possess abilities inaccessible to us. We think they have more tools or were granted preferential universal status. We assume they know more than we do or life is easy for them.

None of these assumptions is true.

And not only are they not true, they prevent you from taking full responsibility for your life and your experience. As long as you have an excuse, you don’t have to change the habits that are oh-so-comfortable and familiar! How brilliant is that for a mind-mechanism that tries to keep everything as-is? If you have a reason (read: excuse), you can remain in the cozy little life you’ve created.

And there’s nothing wrong with that if it’s what you consciously choose. But we’re not talking about being choosing consciously, are we? We’re more addressing the subconscious beliefs that linger and debilitate without much awareness on our part.

So, how much do you want a life that radiates from the highest place in you? And what are you willing to do to facilitate that change?

As long as you have a ‘good’ reason like, “She is smarter than I. That’s why abundance happens for her,” you won’t even try to have a better life. It’s a safe, but untrue, catchall that leaves you paralyzed by inaction.

However, if you’re ready to live the highest version of your best self, adopting the seven defining characteristics of overcomers is a jumpstart to having a different life. Those we call ‘overcomers’ commonly:

1. are tenacious
2. learn and grow from every experience
3. are proactive
4. see opportunity everywhere
5. help others
6. develop a plan-of-action
7. act on their plan

We all experience hardship. It’s an occasional state of the human condition. The pendulum swings; being spiritual entities on this physical plane means we experience the full range of emotions and happenings as we journey.

It’s not especially hard to be an overcomer in life:

1. Understand circumstance doesn’t define you. How you respond defines you.
2. Decide that circumstance does not dictate the level of enjoyment--or quality of life--you can experience.
3. Take some action that’s different than all the previous actions that have brought you to this very moment. If you do, I promise you’ll have a different experience.


The Universe conspires on our behalf for our benefit. The greatest personal shifts I’ve ever known came as a result of deciding no circumstance controls my experience. After all, I am an overcomer and you can be, too.

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Charlon Bobo of EditCopyProof.com is a contributing author of the soon-to-be-released book, Overcomers, Inc.; Inspiring Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration. Access the FR*EE ebook, Overcoming Adversity with Grace; Secrets to Rise Above Virtually Any Obstacle Life Puts in Front of You with insights from over 30 visionary experts