My best business advice? Scare yourself silly on a regular basis

"Sometimes you have to scare yourself silly in order to play a bigger game and participate in something amazing."

~ Steve Errey, The Confidence Guy


There's no better season to talk about scaring yourself silly.

With Hallowe'en quickly approaching, common scary activities include ghost tours, the telling of ghost stories and frightening tales, and watching horror films. But, there's nothing more scary than scaring yourself silly.

The term itself is comical to me and makes actually doing it a little easier. It brings light-heartedness to something that can be so off-putting that we find ourselves paralyzed in mediocrity--existing, but never deeply contented; living within the illusion of safety, but never fully exploring our infinite possibilities.

The only way to play bigger and be a part of something bigger than yourself is by doing something that completely unnerves you; makes you sick to your stomach; makes you think you'd go to most any extreme to avoid doing the thing. Each of us has at least one thing that scares us silly; some many more.

Have you ever wondered how much energy is being silently and stealthily siphoned off by inaction? However, if you face your issue(s) head-on by taking an action step, it's incredible how much personal power remains within to multiply exponentially so you can accomplish even greater things.

The truth is: the subconscious voice of inaction doesn't go away, although it may quiet down temporarily. Don't be mistaken! In some way it will continually make itself known. It's not going anywhere until it's appeased; with an action toward its resolve.

Even though it might not seem or feel like it, your inner voice is actually providing an opportunity for you to shine! It's leaving clues that a belief is ready to be shattered and replaced by something much more empowering. Wouldn't you rather have that?

I will let you in on a secret, but lean in closer; I don't want everyone to know!

I had a BIG fear of public speaking.

And it wasn't just public speaking; teleseminars were the worst. Any time I knew my conversation was being recorded, I froze. All the free-flow that was so comfortable in every other conversation; all my hard-earned knowledge; all my insights; all my conversation skills; flew right out the window leaving me a bumbling mess. And it felt terrible because I knew there was importance in the message.

But, I just couldn't get beyond the belief that I wasn't a good public speaker. In spite of support and opportunities to get better, I held that belief for years until I was tired of being limited by something I didn't really know to be true; after all, it was just a belief! Maybe, just maybe, I had been wrong, but I wouldn't know until I took action.

I knew if I simply focused on getting better every time, that was my personal measure of success. My goal was not to be the world's best speaker. My goal was to move beyond paralysis of unfounded beliefs.

Here's another secret: You may not have made the correlation by reading my newsletter, but until a few months ago, I didn't offer teleclasses. You know why I started? Because it forced me to take an action. I knew if I was accountable to others, I would have to come through for them. I used the exercise to scare myself silly. It was a beautiful self-orchestration to play at becoming better.

When I lightened up and prepared a platform for me to practice, based on my terms, my confidence soared. Now I am unstoppable. But it wouldn't have happened without my initial decision to scare myself silly and take an action step; little by little, you know?

This is how I did it. I set up the first teleclass to practice sounding more natural using a script. The second one was set up to "wing it" using only bullet points. I aced both, based on my personal measure of success. And completely gone is the fear. I only aspired to be better than I was before the experiment and I accomplished that.

Another way to say scare yourself silly is: go out on a limb. Why is this so important? Because that's where the fruit is! This applies both literally and figuratively. Literally, nature provides fruit in abundance. It's right there within eyesight, but it might require effort to enjoy the bounty; climbing high and reaching far. Figuratively, we must go out on a limb to access life's fruit (abundance). Based on my observations, it's after we invest something of ourselves that we reap the most benefit.

Are you afraid of public speaking? Contact everyone you know and let them know you're available to speak (choose a comfortable topic based on your personal expertise). Then follow through, meaning: go do it.

Are you afraid to make sales calls? Get a list, sit down, and start dialing.

Are you afraid to hire a support team? Run the numbers, establish a budget and a plan for implementation, ask for referrals and start interviewing.


Whatever your scary thing, take some action toward it. Go out on a limb and scare yourself silly on a regular basis. Soon that becomes your norm and you wake up one day to realize you are playing bigger and participating in something amazing; it's called your life.

An inspiration from Buckminster Fuller and a message to every misfit on the planet

I had the privilege recently to attend an informal presentation by Jaime Snyder; grandson of Buckminster (Bucky) Fuller.

If you’re unfamiliar with Bucky Fuller, he was a true visionary: philosopher, designer, poet, architect, artist, engineer, entrepreneur, author, mathematician, teacher and inventor.

It was astounding to hear some of the more personal aspects of Bucky’s life and notice so many similarities to my own experience and those of my friends and colleagues; maybe even yours. Read on.

In his 30’s, already a proven “failure” at numerous pursuits (including flunking out of Harvard twice: first for spending all his money partying with a vaudeville troupe, and then, after having been readmitted, for his "irresponsibility and lack of interest"), bankrupt, jobless, living in public, low-income housing, and drinking frequently due to the death of his young daughter, he sat on the edge of Lake Michigan and seriously contemplated “ending it all.” He believed that his wife and second child would have better opportunities without him due to his failed attempts to succeed in life.

Then, he had another thought: If he did only things that truly inspired him instead of his former approach (which obviously wasn’t working), maybe the outcome would be different. At that moment he chose to embark on "an experiment, to find what a single individual [could] contribute to changing the world and benefiting all humanity."

Like many of us, Bucky was first driven by a focus on money. It’s a common experience based on systematic social conditioning. Inherently, there’s nothing wrong with that focus; it just wasn’t his priority. With the passage of time, however, in part, it led him to contemplate suicide.

He recognized that a focus on money—because it wasn’t a part of his personal agenda—and putting his attention on what others thought was important—instead of following his own bliss—wasn’t in alignment with making his greatest contribution. He could never achieve personal excellence within the confines of the existing model. As history eventually revealed, he would thrive outside convention. His lakeside inner guide was spot-on. (After all, life is a grand experiment; why not approach it as such?)

It doesn’t even occur to us to question the model. It doesn’t even occur to us that there are alternatives to conforming. It doesn’t even occur to us that to shine as brilliantly as possible, we might have to navigate our own way; meaning we follow no one and no thing. We might have to create a solitary path that paves the way for others.

By his own appraisal, Bucky was a “non-conforming misfit.” Does this sound familiar to you? If you’re an entrepreneur, it’s very likely you’re a non-conforming misfit, too.

So, what’s the point? What’s the big takeaway here?

1. Every misfit has been discouraged to the point of taking dramatic action.

Whether it’s suicide, or an abrupt or uncharacteristic decision about a move, a relationship, business, or your health, you know when you’ve had enough of what is. You simply cannot take any more. Your “sponge is full” and you cannot live one more minute within your current circumstances; you can’t, and you won’t.

Life has interesting ways of presenting enormous opportunity; it may even be packaged in despair. Quite effective, it finally gets our full attention, although there may have been signals of misalignment for years. When we’re done; fully saturated; fully convinced that we’ve tried everything; that’s the moment fresh possibilities surface to grab our focus and set us off in a new, inspired direction.

2. Every misfit has felt alone in defining and/or delivering her unique message.

You and life collaborated to create a moment of decision; this is one of your great life opportunities to shine. After the realization that there may be options you hadn’t previously explored, now what? As if you weren’t overwhelmed before! Hmph.

Now that you’ve determined your best options are based in following your own inner drummer, it’s likely you’ll spend your time discovering your passions (if you haven’t already), find more ways to nurture and be kind to yourself, send the inner critic on vacation, invest in some down-home soul searching, explore the many ways to enjoy what is, and simply be.

Inspirations come with allowing; not planning, strategizing and acting, as so many of us have been taught. When you’re wholly aligned with who you are and intimately knowledgeable of your unique gifts, the rest will naturally present itself in response to your alignment. The Way will be made known to you. It must; it’s a Universal Law.

3. Every misfit has felt overwhelmed at some point in figuring out the how of making his finest contribution to humanity.

When you follow no model, you are ever creating in-the-moment. You may have no idea if what you’re doing makes any sense. You may have no idea if your inspirations are a few or hundreds of years before their “time.” You may have no proven methods of implementation. Upon implementation, you may have no universally-agreed-on measure of “success.” At best, you may have no or few supporters. At worst, you could be persecuted or ostracized for acting on your convictions.

Every effort is based in inspiration. You may have no idea how—after the investment of precious resources of time, money, effort, passion, and drive—or if, all your efforts will eventually enrich humanity. After all, life’s a grand experiment!



In conclusion, misfit, this is my heartfelt message to you:

Misfit, you may never achieve personal excellence within the confines of the existing model. You probably weren’t meant to. Create your haven—and thrive—outside convention. Embark on an experiment to find out what a single individual (you!) can contribute to changing the world and benefiting all humanity. As a misfit, that’s most likely your calling.

Misfit, wear the term as a badge of honor, for it requires a tremendous amount of courage to be a leader; a visionary; a pioneer; a lightbearer; a path maker; an entrepreneur.

Misfit, regardless of how lost, lonely, or scared silly you might ever feel on this journey, you are never alone. There are misfits everywhere, lurking among the masses, trying to figure out their own ways to change the world and benefit humanity. Make it your mission to find them!

Teleclass THIS WEEK: The Art of Money Magnetism Revealed

It's time we all WAKE UP to embrace our birthright; our relationship with outrageous abundance. It's a natural, comfortable state when you get there, but whew! what a tumultuous journey for so many of us.

I made peace with outrageous abundance and I want to share "the how" with you because the results of my own life tickle my heart; the information must be shared.

You'll become a money magnet, but don't be fooled by the title; when you make peace with outrageous abundance, it shows up in EVERY facet of your life. Money is only one facet, but it's one of the most important relationships to heal because it can be intertwined with issues of self-value and block outrageous abundance.

The techniques I give you are inspired, heart-based, and provide immediate relief.

One hour and one registration fee gives you access to:

1. both live calls (same content, just offered at different times to accommodate busy schedules) 
2. both recordings, AND
3. a copy of my best-selling book personally inscribed with the wording of your choice; Overcomer's Inc.: True Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration

PLUS, the first 25 registrants receive a complimentary 20-minute private consult with me on the topic of your choice including copywriting, copyediting, online marketing or personal empowerment (an additional value of $31.00). If you've ever wanted an insider's expert input for f*r*e*e, this is a perfect opportunity!


For full details and registration, click here.

Mother God Azna has a gift of physical healing just for YOU

Rebecca Marina is a cherished friend, trusted mentor, masterful online marketer and valued copywriting client. From my many personal interactions with her, she is the REAL DEAL. No one is more genuine--or more committed to serving others--than Rebecca.

As a Channel/Energy healer, she receives powerful guidance from Spirit so you can reach out and grab success... the easy, joyful way. The necessity of "growth through suffering" is no longer necessary!

I am continually amazed at the content Rebecca delivers. It is like NOTHING else on the planet; the information is downloaded and immediately disseminated in real-time via her life-changing f*r*e*e and low-cost teleseminars.

My success resources are of the highest caliber, but when something especially remarkable--and truly miraculous--crosses my path, I am compelled to share it with you.

Rebecca's inspired Heart Point Technique (HPT) for physical healing is directly from the Feminine Divine. As the very first recipient of this healing modality, I can personally attest to its power to mend the physical body and eliminate pain. Hear my session during this 90-minute audio that completely details the 4 Protocols so you can perform the technique on yourself and your loved ones. It's simple and most importantly IT WORKS.

Physical healing with Azna's Heart Point Technique

Eradicate Incessant Mind-chatter

Today I was asked by a consulting client how to silence mind-chatter. The process below is overly-simplified, but these are the 3 steps I shared to effectively shush that voice, so you can focus and be at peace:

Take an authoritative position--Give yourself permission to silence that invasive voice. No one ever told us that we can direct our inner critic. We can and we must if we are to be the masters of our minds.

Take action--As if it resided outside of your head, tell your voice to go sit in a corner or assign it a task, physically distanced from you. Feel free to have fun with this; set a time limit or other specification, e.g. "For 10 minutes" or "Until you can come back and be quiet."

Consciously choose another thought--Instead of being the servant of your inner voice, turn the tables and while your critic is otherwise occupied, choose a pleasant thought that feels better and allows you to focus.

The more awareness you create around this dynamic, and take assertive action every time it happens, the less interested your mind will be in bothering you. After some time has passed, you realize you have mastered--or at least have begun to master--your own inner voice because after awhile it stops tormenting and distracting you. Just like a child in the throes of a tantrum, it stops because it no longer gets the reaction it's looking for. And, voila; success!

Y: The Question and The Funnel

The Question

We often ask ourselves “Why?” Why this? Why that? Why now? Why me?

These wonderings usually involve extreme impact of some kind:

• Why did I lose my job?
• Why did my child get sick?
• Why didn’t I foresee losing my retirement money in the stock market?
• Why was the timing of the auto accident so soon after the death of my father?
• Why does my longtime acquaintance seem disinterested in continuing our friendship?
• Why have there been a string of circumstances that have evaporated the solid foundation of my life?
• Why has my business so completely changed that I have no reliable monthly income?

Although it’s common to wonder about the whys of life, this exploration is the ultimate distraction. In the end, if you had the answer to the question, would it matter? Does knowing change anything? Maybe yes, maybe no.

Why is it a distraction? Because it only prolongs the inevitable: taking the next step toward regaining your soulful stability; your groundedness; the conscious creation of that which positions you securely in your personal power.

I submit that the only why question worthy of your attention is: Why not?

That leads me to…

The Funnel

If you go outside, turn your face toward the heavens and lift your arms, your body forms a Y.

This is the ultimate representation of surrender, willingness, openness or welcoming, depending on your mindset and heartset.

Do you realize that this is also the shape of a funnel? From this position, the Universe can pour its very essence directly into you: all that is goodness, abundance, opportunity, joy, etc. Amassing in the ether and narrowing into a direct stream, if you are open and allow this influx directly from Source, you can be transformed.

When you look at the vastness of the sky, and allow yourself to be engulfed, you are too transfixed by the magnitude to wonder why this? or why that? You don’t have answers to the questions of why me? or why now?, but you don’t need them. When you really think about it, all of that is irrelevant in the grand scope of all that is. Besides, you may never know anyway, so why even pose the question? Why invest the time and energy in something that simply is? Instead, allow whatever isas-is. to be okay

The next time your mind naturally goes to the question of why?, consciously shift it to why not?:

• Why not embrace what is?
• Why not allow myself to surrender to my current circumstances?
• Why not operate from a position of knowing that all is well, regardless of external situations?
• Why not pursue my biggest dreams?
• Why not give myself the gift of all that is accessible?
• Why not be grateful for the events in my life, especially when I don’t understand why?
• Why not try something new?
• Why not completely change my perspective to view life as a process?
• Why not admit I don’t know everything?
• Why not treat myself with the kindness I gladly give to others?

Why not, indeed!

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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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

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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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

Overcoming Is a Lifestyle, Not a Temporary Survival Tool

Contrary to popular belief, overcoming is not a reaction or response to life’s challenging circumstances. Instead, overcoming is a constant, a full-life approach, a way of being.

As an overcomer you embody the surety that no matter what unfolds in life you are fully-equipped to move through any circumstance and come out stronger on the other side. Regardless of what you may temporarily feel in any moment, you bring a certainty of calm, knowing there is high purpose in every experience. And this opens the gates of all possibility. You’ll be amazed at what creative solutions present themselves when you know the process of life is to show how grand you really are.

It is not my intent to portray this approach as easy, but it certainly feels better than being overwhelmed and worried that things won’t work out. You have not lived this long to have things fall apart now. You are divinely guided and supported in ways you cannot imagine. Embrace the lifestyle of a true overcomer and live free.

I am so honored to share my story in Overcomers, Inc.