Get Organized!

It pays to take a little time each week to prioritize and organize the tasks you have to get done. When you get organized it is easier to get your job done in the most efficient way. Decide a time slot for a review meeting with yourself every week and put it down in your calendar. Focus your priority on the most important stuff and then stick to your priorities. In other words; plan your work and work your plan.

Ask Why?

The best way to get people to think is to ask them questions. One of the best questioning words to use to overcome an objection in selling or to ask at any other time; is "Why?" There is something happening to the human brain when we get posed with such a question. Just ask and shut up and wait for the answer. Don't be afraid to ask more often: "Why do you say that?"

The Secret Of Salesmanship

Talk to people about them and they will listen for hours. Ask questions about them and they will be delighted and think you are a genius! One of the most important secrets in sales is to find out what people want and then help them to get it. Try to see things from the other person's point of view and talk in terms of his wants, needs and desires. Help them get what they want!

Habits Govern Behaviour

98% of what we do is governed by habit according to contemporary brain research. This means that in our brains, there are small "software programs" in charge of every little activity we undertake. They start automatically, on reflex, whenever we need to move, act or react. This is why it is so important to form good, functional habits to help you become more successful. Are there any programs in your life you would like to "upgrade"?

Never Quit, Never Lie, Never Apologize

In the TV-series about the Mcahan family from the 1970's ("How the West was Won") the old cowboy Zeb had a motto that goes: "Never quit, never lie, never apologize." I think he was on to the secrets of success in his own, old fashioned cowboy-sort-of-way. Sustained effort, honesty in purpose and a fearless non-apologetic style is key to any effective communication and in influencing others. Be bold and never excuse yourself when you stand up to deliver a speech.

Focus And Concentrate

Focus is very important when it comes to getting things done. Clarity of thought and a laser-beam focus help you get the job done. If you get easily distracted when you have many things around you develop the habit of picking one important task at a time and follow it through to completion with focus and single-minded concentration. Don't get distracted by other thoughts or outside stimulus. Turn down the volume on your e-mailbox and mobile phone if you have to. Focus and concentrate!

Don't Let Your History Hold You Hostage

Don't allow your past hold you back. Should you feel like you're down in the dumps right now, be assured you can turn the situation around and build something beautiful on that very garbage dump. There are plenty examples of others who did. If life hands you lemons, make some lemonade. It really doesn't matter where you are coming from. All that matters is where you are going.