Tonight, on another eve of Thanks, it is within my spirit to expound on life and how the parenting styles and teachings truly leave strong legacies that will always show on the faces of children. For example; this is the second year of the physical transition into a new life for both my maternal mother and grandmother. It is here stregth gives commitment to the balance of what we lack.
Thinking back, I felt I would never be able to go on. However, with each given day, it got better. Realizing that in spirit, we still have our loved ones and although it may be lonely, especially at this time of year, knowing that the spirit is profound and extremely connected to life, helps one endure.
The life I remember was filled with big family dinners, arguments that no longer even matters but was so important during those times, the search for the ultimate love of mom, dad, and grandma and angry because they told us all we were the "favorite". The home cooked taste and feeling of love shared in our favorite item on the menu. Finally, the busy hustle and bustle of travel to airports to get back home before dinner started.
As we grow, we find true value within the concepts of family tradition and we need not long to once again embrace it, unless we chose to let it go. The same love that is shared with our parents will always remain in our faces regardless if they are in the physical or in the spirit and dwelling deep within our hearts.
Let this family gathering of 2011 be the reminder of the love still shared in the physical form for some families and a mental note for others, nothing else matters except the love remembered because that's the only thing left in the end.
SpiritWorks, Hotep~
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Saturday, December 11, 2010
“Doing More with Less” Seminar
Today, I went to a small business seminar at a local elementary school. There were six individual classes open to those who signed up. I gravitated towards the Entrepreneurship and New Business Start Up class. The network connections were phenomenal! Certified Instructor, Janaire Croom was very detailed with her discussion on targeting a business idea, how to form a mission statement, and how to register information to the State of Ohio as a legitimate business.
She incorporated how being aware of the competition helps drive your idea and passion further. Make sure you are not duplicating services that are already out there. Keep your day job between 18 months to 3 years while working on the investment of your business plan or concept. For example; look at finding other legal ways to make money when a lay off occurs or if income gets too low.
A business plan is the bible or blue print to your business. I have been working on my business plan now for at least a month and haven’t even tackled the financial portion, yet. The plan is already at twenty-five pages. So, give yourself time. Realize the first arrangement is just a rough draft. Have someone review, critique and give you pointers on what is a good fit to your mission/purpose. Prepare yourself for negativity. Take that pessimism, analyze its content, keep what you need and throw away what you don’t.
Seminars, such as these are priority for those who wish to succeed further into a business, or just get their financial position in order. Did you know there are three credit reporting agencies? What may be reported to one credit entity may not be reported to the other. Do an annual check to make sure the report is accurate. Identity theft is really real. Know your rights to negotiate dispute resolutions with an agency or credit lender concerning items on your report between 7-10 years old. Have a relationship with your bank so when problems occur, your rapport with the lenders and bankers will shine through concerning your immediate circumstance. It is also wise to get a Certified Public Accountant so they can direct you in numerous financial areas.
What makes a lot of people afraid to start their own business is the up-front financial portion needed. Some banks are willing to match your start up business dollar for dollar. Yet, you will need some personal collateral. Looking at the economy it is necessary to learn how to make money from past experiences. These experiences can become motivators that could possibly turn ideas into a positive entrepreneurial journey.
I learned the critical differences between a sole proprietor, L.L.C, non-profit and corporation status. These are important to understand and review before deciding what you will do in your business. The information is located on your local Small Business Gateway or Secretary of State’s web-page. An attorney can help guide you to the best fit for your business. My family attorney gave me advice, free of charge and even directed me to the site to check name availability and helped me register the business.
Do not distribute business cards or promote website information if your business is not registered with your State office. Insurance is crucial, even if you are leasing or renting. Make sure you at least have liability coverage on your business so you will not get sued from your personal assets or so you can recover if something happens to your supplies.
An aggressive attitude will help balance a business. Are you dedicated, determined, ambitious, a go-getter that will actually get your idea accomplished? You are the sponsor to your idea. So, nurture it, build it, give it time to blossom to its fullest potential and then go after your heart’s desire. If it helps a community or your service is in demand, you’re onto something great!
Lending is not always the best road for all to take. If you can work your business as if you are on the time clock and receiving a wage is a sure way to actually save, invest in the company and use less resources that may eventually take up to 75% of your profit (McKeever, 2008). But, if your credit is “A” rated you will have people ready to lend. But, be very careful of the risk that your business may assume.
Resource Citation:
McKeever, Mike (2008). How to Write A Business Plan (9th ed.) Nolo, Berkley CA, pp.55
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc- Economic Development Committee
Sponsors: Anderson Interiors, Huntington Bank, Homes Saving and Loan Company,
J.E. Washington Funeral Services, Y.S.U. Financial Aid Counselor.
She incorporated how being aware of the competition helps drive your idea and passion further. Make sure you are not duplicating services that are already out there. Keep your day job between 18 months to 3 years while working on the investment of your business plan or concept. For example; look at finding other legal ways to make money when a lay off occurs or if income gets too low.
A business plan is the bible or blue print to your business. I have been working on my business plan now for at least a month and haven’t even tackled the financial portion, yet. The plan is already at twenty-five pages. So, give yourself time. Realize the first arrangement is just a rough draft. Have someone review, critique and give you pointers on what is a good fit to your mission/purpose. Prepare yourself for negativity. Take that pessimism, analyze its content, keep what you need and throw away what you don’t.
Seminars, such as these are priority for those who wish to succeed further into a business, or just get their financial position in order. Did you know there are three credit reporting agencies? What may be reported to one credit entity may not be reported to the other. Do an annual check to make sure the report is accurate. Identity theft is really real. Know your rights to negotiate dispute resolutions with an agency or credit lender concerning items on your report between 7-10 years old. Have a relationship with your bank so when problems occur, your rapport with the lenders and bankers will shine through concerning your immediate circumstance. It is also wise to get a Certified Public Accountant so they can direct you in numerous financial areas.
What makes a lot of people afraid to start their own business is the up-front financial portion needed. Some banks are willing to match your start up business dollar for dollar. Yet, you will need some personal collateral. Looking at the economy it is necessary to learn how to make money from past experiences. These experiences can become motivators that could possibly turn ideas into a positive entrepreneurial journey.
I learned the critical differences between a sole proprietor, L.L.C, non-profit and corporation status. These are important to understand and review before deciding what you will do in your business. The information is located on your local Small Business Gateway or Secretary of State’s web-page. An attorney can help guide you to the best fit for your business. My family attorney gave me advice, free of charge and even directed me to the site to check name availability and helped me register the business.
Do not distribute business cards or promote website information if your business is not registered with your State office. Insurance is crucial, even if you are leasing or renting. Make sure you at least have liability coverage on your business so you will not get sued from your personal assets or so you can recover if something happens to your supplies.
An aggressive attitude will help balance a business. Are you dedicated, determined, ambitious, a go-getter that will actually get your idea accomplished? You are the sponsor to your idea. So, nurture it, build it, give it time to blossom to its fullest potential and then go after your heart’s desire. If it helps a community or your service is in demand, you’re onto something great!
Lending is not always the best road for all to take. If you can work your business as if you are on the time clock and receiving a wage is a sure way to actually save, invest in the company and use less resources that may eventually take up to 75% of your profit (McKeever, 2008). But, if your credit is “A” rated you will have people ready to lend. But, be very careful of the risk that your business may assume.
Resource Citation:
McKeever, Mike (2008). How to Write A Business Plan (9th ed.) Nolo, Berkley CA, pp.55
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc- Economic Development Committee
Sponsors: Anderson Interiors, Huntington Bank, Homes Saving and Loan Company,
J.E. Washington Funeral Services, Y.S.U. Financial Aid Counselor.
Monday, November 29, 2010
STS Business Budget
I had a conversation with someone defining how businesses dive into bankruptcy. The premise was they take on more than they can handle. Business budgets are just like any other. The bottom line should always be more positive revenue than out-going expense. Just as if you were keeping record of a house budget, if you have more bills to pay than income earned, your bottom line will not balance.
Not to make this budgeting class 101, but there are so many different concepts I am learning about the convenience of having my own company. The benefit packages and the deductions available to me are simply awesome. Beyond that, I have experienced a great deal so far which involves documentation, saving receipts, and writing a business plan that will impress lenders. Having your own company forces you to be independent, organized and financially aware of every penny. What it’s used for, where it will go, when it’s returned , when it will be returned or paid off, how soon will revenue be received and who is responsible if it doesn’t get returned as expected. Just like a house budget, the only difference is, this is not just my money.
Being in business is like running a tight ship and teaching those on board how to be cautious with every move. A few things I have educated myself on thus far; how important it is to keep all receipts as I purchase items, pay off bills, and receive income through S.T.S. If I travel, keep all gas receipts, mileage and create a smart copy; weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or quarterly of each item. Transfer this smart copy to a ledger that shows an account summary of transactions in separate columns. Monthly, transfer the itemized list total into a trial balance query with a debt balance and credit balance that confirms my bottom line, twice. Not to be paranoid, but to the penny accurate.
If your business advertises through traveling, keep all lodging and other purchase receipts as proof your itinerary involved traveling specifically for business. If you make a sale or discuss your business, it can possibly be included as a tax write off. Talk with your accountant of that.
Business tax classes and small business seminars have also been extremely helpful, teaching business owners the basics on double checking the book-keeper and accountant with your own bottom line. Last, but not least it is a necessity to hire an accountant and book-keeper that you know and trust. Not necessarily on a personal level but more on a professional one. I believe it would be extremely inappropriate to hire a friend to work with your bottom line. I have always done my own personal taxes and learned much along the way. Talking with financial institutions and looking information up on-line has been a great help with the new endeavor of the business portion I am now owner of.
Regardless, if math was or wasn’t your favorite subject, when you have a business you will make math, organization and saving money your best friend. Hope this article helps. If not, it will be something I will look back on in a few months to see just how far I’ve come on the financial end of the business.
Not to make this budgeting class 101, but there are so many different concepts I am learning about the convenience of having my own company. The benefit packages and the deductions available to me are simply awesome. Beyond that, I have experienced a great deal so far which involves documentation, saving receipts, and writing a business plan that will impress lenders. Having your own company forces you to be independent, organized and financially aware of every penny. What it’s used for, where it will go, when it’s returned , when it will be returned or paid off, how soon will revenue be received and who is responsible if it doesn’t get returned as expected. Just like a house budget, the only difference is, this is not just my money.
Being in business is like running a tight ship and teaching those on board how to be cautious with every move. A few things I have educated myself on thus far; how important it is to keep all receipts as I purchase items, pay off bills, and receive income through S.T.S. If I travel, keep all gas receipts, mileage and create a smart copy; weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or quarterly of each item. Transfer this smart copy to a ledger that shows an account summary of transactions in separate columns. Monthly, transfer the itemized list total into a trial balance query with a debt balance and credit balance that confirms my bottom line, twice. Not to be paranoid, but to the penny accurate.
If your business advertises through traveling, keep all lodging and other purchase receipts as proof your itinerary involved traveling specifically for business. If you make a sale or discuss your business, it can possibly be included as a tax write off. Talk with your accountant of that.
Business tax classes and small business seminars have also been extremely helpful, teaching business owners the basics on double checking the book-keeper and accountant with your own bottom line. Last, but not least it is a necessity to hire an accountant and book-keeper that you know and trust. Not necessarily on a personal level but more on a professional one. I believe it would be extremely inappropriate to hire a friend to work with your bottom line. I have always done my own personal taxes and learned much along the way. Talking with financial institutions and looking information up on-line has been a great help with the new endeavor of the business portion I am now owner of.
Regardless, if math was or wasn’t your favorite subject, when you have a business you will make math, organization and saving money your best friend. Hope this article helps. If not, it will be something I will look back on in a few months to see just how far I’ve come on the financial end of the business.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
S.T.S Defines Communication
To professionally communicate it takes patience, understanding, and an open mind. It is necessary for higher officials to have the people skills to help get the job done. Those in elevated positions are human, yet they are expected to communicate effectively.
I met a guy who was a building contractor. Working for a company, making great wages and doing what he liked doing, reconstructing homes. His immediate chain of command communicated in a negative and arrogant way. Demanding more than what the job required, talking belligerent to contractors in front of customers and being extremely short tempered. The contractor decided he was not willing to work under those circumstances. The Supervisor lost the company money, time and a great worker. Communication is the key to preventing law suits, keeping a positive business reputation and increasing future contracts.
When a company receives negative feedback, communication is lacking. Its worthy of noting that everyone has feelings and most realize they have legal rights. We never know what will make another person feel they have been treated unfairly. So, it is important to try our best to be as openly communicative as possible.
Learning how to be an effective communicator is a valuable commodity to have within a business. Being able to work with different personalities on different levels takes a great deal of practice. When talking with anyone on any level it is wise to take time to consider wording, tone of voice, feedback and understanding. If the receiver of the information walks away from a conversation feeling inadequate, as though their input wasn’t considered, or their feelings were disregarded the performance of their work will cost the company greatly. This is a no win situation.
As a business owner, I have made a commitment to make sure I try my best to leave all my personal issues at the door step of the office. I’ve committed to realizing that without my co-motivators the jobs and contracts will not be given the best attention. This action will lose money for the company and it will be destined to fail before my eyes. It would be an even better idea to participate in as many communication classes available in order to see new ways of understanding people. Granting educational seminar hours for employees would be another avenue that would benefit the company.
Having an open door policy that swings both ways is what makes a good company greater. I want my employees to feel open enough to be free to do what they would normally do, with my presence right beside them, helping and learning the aspects of their job and having them know I am a co-motivator working right there with them.
Communication is way too important and it balances too many other areas not to consider it a needed necessity in training, executive leadership and the workplace continuum.
I met a guy who was a building contractor. Working for a company, making great wages and doing what he liked doing, reconstructing homes. His immediate chain of command communicated in a negative and arrogant way. Demanding more than what the job required, talking belligerent to contractors in front of customers and being extremely short tempered. The contractor decided he was not willing to work under those circumstances. The Supervisor lost the company money, time and a great worker. Communication is the key to preventing law suits, keeping a positive business reputation and increasing future contracts.
When a company receives negative feedback, communication is lacking. Its worthy of noting that everyone has feelings and most realize they have legal rights. We never know what will make another person feel they have been treated unfairly. So, it is important to try our best to be as openly communicative as possible.
Learning how to be an effective communicator is a valuable commodity to have within a business. Being able to work with different personalities on different levels takes a great deal of practice. When talking with anyone on any level it is wise to take time to consider wording, tone of voice, feedback and understanding. If the receiver of the information walks away from a conversation feeling inadequate, as though their input wasn’t considered, or their feelings were disregarded the performance of their work will cost the company greatly. This is a no win situation.
As a business owner, I have made a commitment to make sure I try my best to leave all my personal issues at the door step of the office. I’ve committed to realizing that without my co-motivators the jobs and contracts will not be given the best attention. This action will lose money for the company and it will be destined to fail before my eyes. It would be an even better idea to participate in as many communication classes available in order to see new ways of understanding people. Granting educational seminar hours for employees would be another avenue that would benefit the company.
Having an open door policy that swings both ways is what makes a good company greater. I want my employees to feel open enough to be free to do what they would normally do, with my presence right beside them, helping and learning the aspects of their job and having them know I am a co-motivator working right there with them.
Communication is way too important and it balances too many other areas not to consider it a needed necessity in training, executive leadership and the workplace continuum.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Building Longevity
"Through commitment, dedication and sacrifice you can create longevity within your life. They say practice makes perfect. Scales TO Success says practice helps you get comfortable enough to believe in yourself to go forward into what will one day become your career"...to read more click here http://wp.me/p1dwbx-5
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Commitment and Sacrifice
When we are young, we long for that special relationship that would take us through life. Some of us who dated at the juvenile level, were told it was nothing more than puppy love. As we grew into the young adult stage, we became more aware of the highs and lows of our fist love syndrome. Either they were long lasting relationships or they vanished into thin air. Regardless, we become older and wiser. Today we may feel differently about commitment concerning what we thought we knew.
As we emerge into our latter years, we tend to either become complacent or work harder at what we didn’t accomplish when we had the chance. I'm working with a young lady who is 76 years of age and she is just as sharp in mind as I am. It amazes me how easy she catches on to concepts and ideas she remembers from school many moons ago. Her desire was to get her GED and as we practice, she is so excited to go after what she has long desired.
This is the way commitment comes about. Commitment is a binding contract suggesting continued obligation. This can be in relation to another or to self. I found this out when I was 24 years of age. My twins were just entering kindergarten. I promised myself when they went to school I would return as well. I blatantly walked into my local university, three days into their kindergarten year, and requested information on how the system worked to enroll an incoming student. I felt alone and afraid. Yet, I took the entrance exam and within weeks, I received my registration packet. This was the easy part. Staying committed was the hardest thing.
When I was introduced to this new world of higher education, I began to really take advantage of everything it offered me. Telling everyone I knew how easy it was for me. I did that just to have someone I knew take those scary steps right along with me. Well, needless to say, I continued the walk alone. My family was my strength even though they couldn’t comprehend the struggle of what I was enduring. In June of 2000, I walked across that stage. Being the first to graduate college in our family, they excitedly routed for my commitment!
Commitment, along with sacrifice will guide you to have strength when you feel weak. This is why a relationship can withstand the test of time when it would normally be labeled puppy love. Those relationships that didn’t last, well let’s just say we saw the future before it got there. If there are no sacrifices, or giving up some of what we enjoy, we will lack the motivation to stay committed. Building schedules and patterns help get things accomplished and is a sure way to stay committed. It is within the act of a desire that helps us to go beyond the basic and graduate alone, get a GED at the age of 76 and live happily ever after with our first love.
Dorina Shine
As we emerge into our latter years, we tend to either become complacent or work harder at what we didn’t accomplish when we had the chance. I'm working with a young lady who is 76 years of age and she is just as sharp in mind as I am. It amazes me how easy she catches on to concepts and ideas she remembers from school many moons ago. Her desire was to get her GED and as we practice, she is so excited to go after what she has long desired.
This is the way commitment comes about. Commitment is a binding contract suggesting continued obligation. This can be in relation to another or to self. I found this out when I was 24 years of age. My twins were just entering kindergarten. I promised myself when they went to school I would return as well. I blatantly walked into my local university, three days into their kindergarten year, and requested information on how the system worked to enroll an incoming student. I felt alone and afraid. Yet, I took the entrance exam and within weeks, I received my registration packet. This was the easy part. Staying committed was the hardest thing.
When I was introduced to this new world of higher education, I began to really take advantage of everything it offered me. Telling everyone I knew how easy it was for me. I did that just to have someone I knew take those scary steps right along with me. Well, needless to say, I continued the walk alone. My family was my strength even though they couldn’t comprehend the struggle of what I was enduring. In June of 2000, I walked across that stage. Being the first to graduate college in our family, they excitedly routed for my commitment!
Commitment, along with sacrifice will guide you to have strength when you feel weak. This is why a relationship can withstand the test of time when it would normally be labeled puppy love. Those relationships that didn’t last, well let’s just say we saw the future before it got there. If there are no sacrifices, or giving up some of what we enjoy, we will lack the motivation to stay committed. Building schedules and patterns help get things accomplished and is a sure way to stay committed. It is within the act of a desire that helps us to go beyond the basic and graduate alone, get a GED at the age of 76 and live happily ever after with our first love.
Dorina Shine
Friday, November 19, 2010
Topic: Defining Professionalism
I was recently asked, what Scales To Success, defines as professionalism? I wasn’t too sure about the question, assuming everyone in business was truly professional! Webster’s dictionary defines professionalism as; the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person.
I must say that doesn’t give too much of an in depth definition. So, I will explain my company’s definition of professionalism. First, it is important to know words and their definition in order to communicate with others on all levels. Secondly, it is important to know what you are speaking about, being educated on a topic and researching the information is valuable when professionalism is in question. Thirdly, being true to self and to the client is extremely important.
When I meet people, I would like them to be open with me and share their feelings and views. By listening, I find their strengths and weaknesses. I try very hard not to analyze because I know I become guarded when others analyze me. Vocabulary is extremely beneficial and should be in place when talking with others who may use different terminology. The goal is to understand their view and help pursue their talents in the best possible way. In return, I value being treated with the same reciprocity. Meaning, I want them to feel comfortable with me as well as I would like to feel when talking to them. Professionalism takes on two perspectives; towards the receiver of information and equally from the giver or communicator.
I have met people who talk for an hour, trying to relate a fact and at the end of the hour I am just as confused as I was before the conversation. It means nothing at all, especially if their words go over my head, because I don’t use them regularly. I will politely say “excuse me, can you give me an example of what you’ve just said?” I have witnessed walking dictionaries completely lose me within a conversation. So, I began taking pen and notebook and jotting down words used, and later finding their meaning. When I mentally jog back over the conversation, I found they truly didn’t know what the word really meant. This is mere bluffing to make another feel inferior and it is not well for business. It is important as a business owner, to know what a client needs. If I am unsure, I listen, take notes, ask questions, research and then reiterate or explain my version of what was just stated.
When we are true to ourselves, we have no one to compete with, no one else to try to impress and finally we understand our position at all times. Being understanding has always been a target for me. Not trying to be any more or less than what I am. So, when I meet with a person that is sincere and genuine, I am a great deal more at comfort than one who whistles and toots superiority or a better than I mentality. This is how I treat others because this is how I wish to be treated, that simple!
In conclusion; I believe professionalism is a state of mind. I have seen many scams come from a person in a business suite, a great speaking voice with intellectual wording and a character that would totally impress anyone. With that said, it takes a genuine, confident and well esteemed individual to go beyond the basic definition of professionalism. Being truly confident and willing to learn and be taught is my definition of professionalism.
I must say that doesn’t give too much of an in depth definition. So, I will explain my company’s definition of professionalism. First, it is important to know words and their definition in order to communicate with others on all levels. Secondly, it is important to know what you are speaking about, being educated on a topic and researching the information is valuable when professionalism is in question. Thirdly, being true to self and to the client is extremely important.
When I meet people, I would like them to be open with me and share their feelings and views. By listening, I find their strengths and weaknesses. I try very hard not to analyze because I know I become guarded when others analyze me. Vocabulary is extremely beneficial and should be in place when talking with others who may use different terminology. The goal is to understand their view and help pursue their talents in the best possible way. In return, I value being treated with the same reciprocity. Meaning, I want them to feel comfortable with me as well as I would like to feel when talking to them. Professionalism takes on two perspectives; towards the receiver of information and equally from the giver or communicator.
I have met people who talk for an hour, trying to relate a fact and at the end of the hour I am just as confused as I was before the conversation. It means nothing at all, especially if their words go over my head, because I don’t use them regularly. I will politely say “excuse me, can you give me an example of what you’ve just said?” I have witnessed walking dictionaries completely lose me within a conversation. So, I began taking pen and notebook and jotting down words used, and later finding their meaning. When I mentally jog back over the conversation, I found they truly didn’t know what the word really meant. This is mere bluffing to make another feel inferior and it is not well for business. It is important as a business owner, to know what a client needs. If I am unsure, I listen, take notes, ask questions, research and then reiterate or explain my version of what was just stated.
When we are true to ourselves, we have no one to compete with, no one else to try to impress and finally we understand our position at all times. Being understanding has always been a target for me. Not trying to be any more or less than what I am. So, when I meet with a person that is sincere and genuine, I am a great deal more at comfort than one who whistles and toots superiority or a better than I mentality. This is how I treat others because this is how I wish to be treated, that simple!
In conclusion; I believe professionalism is a state of mind. I have seen many scams come from a person in a business suite, a great speaking voice with intellectual wording and a character that would totally impress anyone. With that said, it takes a genuine, confident and well esteemed individual to go beyond the basic definition of professionalism. Being truly confident and willing to learn and be taught is my definition of professionalism.
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