If you could think of one word that would define you, what would it be? Now take that word and redefine it. We are facing a time when we must redefine ourselves in anticipation of change. To redefine yourself means to take control of who you are and what you stand for in the midst of times when no one seems to have control or not sure of what they stand for.
Despite uncertainties, there are many things to be certain about: YOU! Don’t let your environment define who you are, define who you should be, define what you should do, define what you stand for. Don’t let the temperament of the times determine your destiny, determine your fate, determine your dreams, determine your value. We redefine ourselves so that we are equipped to face the challenges before us, not behind us. We redefine ourselves to ensure that we protect our greatest aspirations and dreams against the greatest thief of hope and opportunity: FEAR.
Make up in your mind that you won’t stop dreaming, stop aspiring to, stop believing for great things due to a change in environment. It is that dream and great ideal that keeps you alive; that keeps you living for the next day. Don’t let the temptation of current circumstances rob you of what you have to offer. Redefine who you are and be prepared for the opportunities that will rise out of uncertainty.
Free Gift With Referrals to DestinyNotes!
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Success Comes In Cycles...
Wham, bam! That's how it hit me!
There I was, having a great time brainstorming on my laptop, in Dream-mode (check out my book!), planning my next strategy for DestinyDreamsDecisions when it hit me like a ton of bricks. All of a sudden, I found myself in "Decision-mode! Now, for those who do not know, my book talks about using a 3D Lifecyle of Success process to reconnect to and stay focused on your dreams. Those three success cycles are: (1)Destiny, (2)Dreams and (3)Decisions.
I believe that when we compartmentalize our lives into three distinct cycles, we are better able to stay on track with our aspirations and ideas. In my workshops, I talk about how you are usually engaged in one cycle at a time, though there are instances where multiple cycles could cross. Even then, one cycle will be more dominate than the other. Well, Lo' and behold: A self-fulfilling prophecy! I recently experienced cross-cycles, that of which I am referring to as a defining moment.
I realized right then and there at my computer, while pecking away at my plans in "Dream-mode" that I needed to make a "DECISION" about my career. This decision would be a major one, and NEEDED to be made because it would have an impact on the work I was completing in the DREAM cycle.
This is not meant to be confusing, but the significance is this: It is best to ACT when an issue arises if it requires action. In my case, a lingering decision would not have been fruitful, but rather counter-productive. There are times when you know that a decision needs to be made. But, for some reason, whe have the tendency to put it off.
I truly believe that issues arise for a reason. However, it is so much easier to deal with them when you know that DECISIONS are just one phase of cycle that leads to success. We know what to expect. Therefore, we can be better prepared to address it and move forward.
I hope that you will begin to or continue to adopt the 3D Lifecyle Success system in your life.
Dr. Karen Hardy, EdD MBA
"The Possibility Professor"
Reclaiming My Brain!
I just finished reading the biography for the founder of Video Professor. You know, the guy who comes on television advertising tutorials for using your computer? What an inspiring story! To begin, as most would assume, the founder is not a real professor, but a former CEO of a computer manufacturing company. Back in the mid-80s he realized that many of his customers not only wanted computers, but also needed help in understanding how to use them. So, Video Professor was born.
This story inspired me for several reasons: First, it further energized my efforts in seeing my dreams come true. His story reminded me that dreams that you believe in take time to grow and prosper, so you have to stick with it long enough to appreciate it and see it through. The Video Professor realized amazing levels of success after 20 years of commitment, faith, and a desire to make a difference. Secondly, it confirmed a thought I had about a recent opportunity to move ahead in my 'day job.' While promotions are great, and making more money is a blessing, so is not having a promotion and making more money in a career. I am fortunate to have crossed the six-figure income bracket, but I am not certain that I want to do more work for more money---- for SOMEONE ELSE! I have decided (Decision-mode in my book!) to reclaim my brain. Finally, for me, enough IS enough!
If I am to spend additional hours at work, I rather spend those hours working on "MY" dream at home. If I truly believe in what I am doing [helping women stay focused on their dreams and execute a plan of action] then it's time to reclaim my brain--- it is time to pour that additional effort and energy into an opportunity that is deeply rooted in my soul and in my spirit. Think about it: How many chances will you get to follow-through on a dream that will not only help others prosper and be better all around-- and then have the blessing reciprocate to you?
Yes, there are some things that money just can't buy-- and that's the satisfaction of knowing that you and I can be the source of change and hope and fulfillment for so many others.
I am reclaiming my brain! How about you?
Dr. Karen Hardy, EdD MBA
"The Possibility Professor"
One-Size Fits All
We often talk about how candidates squander power or criticize how they do not use the resources available to them to make change. Sure, President elect Obama will have a lot of power at his disposal, but the very notion that he commissioned each and every one of us to "OWN" our country's success was a gift in disquise. In addition to redistributing wealth, access to healthcare and other noted goals, he also redistributed "MOMENTUM" and a sense of empowerment right back to the people. He distributed an energy that was released to everyone across the globe. So that now, not only is he and Congress and the Senate responsible for change, but YOU are too! This is not a cliche. The power that he distributed through hope cannot be squandered by YOU. Take the energy. Take the momentum. Take your re-engerized spirit and start creating possibilities for yourself. Hey: One size fits all! Make it fit your life and create change that leads to your destiny.
Cast Your Vote!
Dr. Karen is out voting today!
Karen Hardy, Ed.D., MBA
"Specializing in Organizational Leadership,
and Human Resource Development"
http://www.drkarenspeaks.com
Visit my blog at
http://destinydreamsdecisions.blogspot.com
You Are a Good Woman!
When you are sitting at your desk, remind yourself that you are a good woman.
Really, you are! Even when others cannot see the value in what you bring to the table: You are a good woman. They may not accept or entertain your ideas, but know that you are still a good woman. You may make a small error on the job, or forget that one small detail that could make or break a project; but despite your imperfections, know that you are a good woman. As women, we do our best to be our best when others are looking and when others turn away. But regardless of the lack of recognition, the mention of our name, or the pat on the back, remember that you are a good woman...... and how do I know? because I am a good woman too!
Really, you are! Even when others cannot see the value in what you bring to the table: You are a good woman. They may not accept or entertain your ideas, but know that you are still a good woman. You may make a small error on the job, or forget that one small detail that could make or break a project; but despite your imperfections, know that you are a good woman. As women, we do our best to be our best when others are looking and when others turn away. But regardless of the lack of recognition, the mention of our name, or the pat on the back, remember that you are a good woman...... and how do I know? because I am a good woman too!
When You're Shutdown, Step It Up!
Does anyone remember the Federal Government shutdown of 1996? In January of that year, due to bad blood between Newt Gingrinch (Newty) and Bill Clinton, federal employees became pawns in a bitter dispute regarding the budget and were tossed around like stepchildren. For those who are short on memory: For nearly a month, feds were sent home to wait until a budget agreement was made.
I was one of those feds sent home. How depressing was that? Very! It was the first time in my life where I felt I had absolutely no control over my life or my destiny. Here I was, an intelligent and well-educated woman, sent home humbly, in the middle of the day by Newt and Bill. [whateva!]
As I crossed the parking lot to my then fancy Geo Metro [LOL!], I faced a sea of employees leaving adjacent buildings heading towards me: You know, the kind of crowds you see when there is a fire drill. I was stunned. Stunned even more when I accompanied a few other feds to the unemployment offices of the state government that day. Interestingly enough, no one at that office even knew that feds were 'furloughed.' While sitting at home for nearly 4 weeks, I remember feeling powerless and helpless. How could they do such a thing? Even more, I was angry. Not so much at the folks on Capitol Hill, but moreso with myself for getting comfortable with my future in someone else's hands.
It was that day where a fire built up inside me that made me promise to never get caught in a situation like this again. I didn't like the way I felt and wanted to keep it as a reminder of what it felt like to have your life wrapped up in another persons ability.
That was 1996. Fast forward 2008.
Same atmosphere, different event. The difference however is that for 12 years, my mindset changed from one of being a consumer to being a producer; to being one who creates intellectual capital rather being someone's human capital. A few years back, I read a report by Target Market news that African Americans are one of the largest consumers demographically. In other words, we are great at consumption, but not as effective at being producers. We consume more than we produce. We consume what others produce rather than produce the goods that others consume. From that day on, I decided that I wanted to be a producer of goods that others consume. That way I could have some say in all of this!
I say that to say this: Despite all of the economic turmoil and uncertainty, some things ought not change-- and that is your desire, drive and ability to create opportunities for yourself. The events taking place within the economy is another que for YOU to make up your mind and to get into DECISION-MODE. Now is the time to decide that from hereon, you are going to take control of your ability to develop and create wealth for yourself. Take it from me, everything you see and touch and utilize was developed and created by someone, and they are benefiting from it everyday.
It's time that you take the wheel and chart your course in life. Now has never been a better time to focus on what your contribution will be. It will enrich your life and sustain your spirit in the long run.
I was one of those feds sent home. How depressing was that? Very! It was the first time in my life where I felt I had absolutely no control over my life or my destiny. Here I was, an intelligent and well-educated woman, sent home humbly, in the middle of the day by Newt and Bill. [whateva!]
As I crossed the parking lot to my then fancy Geo Metro [LOL!], I faced a sea of employees leaving adjacent buildings heading towards me: You know, the kind of crowds you see when there is a fire drill. I was stunned. Stunned even more when I accompanied a few other feds to the unemployment offices of the state government that day. Interestingly enough, no one at that office even knew that feds were 'furloughed.' While sitting at home for nearly 4 weeks, I remember feeling powerless and helpless. How could they do such a thing? Even more, I was angry. Not so much at the folks on Capitol Hill, but moreso with myself for getting comfortable with my future in someone else's hands.
It was that day where a fire built up inside me that made me promise to never get caught in a situation like this again. I didn't like the way I felt and wanted to keep it as a reminder of what it felt like to have your life wrapped up in another persons ability.
That was 1996. Fast forward 2008.
Same atmosphere, different event. The difference however is that for 12 years, my mindset changed from one of being a consumer to being a producer; to being one who creates intellectual capital rather being someone's human capital. A few years back, I read a report by Target Market news that African Americans are one of the largest consumers demographically. In other words, we are great at consumption, but not as effective at being producers. We consume more than we produce. We consume what others produce rather than produce the goods that others consume. From that day on, I decided that I wanted to be a producer of goods that others consume. That way I could have some say in all of this!
I say that to say this: Despite all of the economic turmoil and uncertainty, some things ought not change-- and that is your desire, drive and ability to create opportunities for yourself. The events taking place within the economy is another que for YOU to make up your mind and to get into DECISION-MODE. Now is the time to decide that from hereon, you are going to take control of your ability to develop and create wealth for yourself. Take it from me, everything you see and touch and utilize was developed and created by someone, and they are benefiting from it everyday.
It's time that you take the wheel and chart your course in life. Now has never been a better time to focus on what your contribution will be. It will enrich your life and sustain your spirit in the long run.
During a Bad Economy, Hold on To your Dreams!
During a Bad Economy, Hold on To your Dreams!visit the DestinyDreamsDecisions Blog to read more.....
Wachovia Bank reported the greatest loss ever for a bank in one quarter. The newspapers are reporting hard times for 529 College Plans as well. With so many investments going bad, are there any good investments left? Hard to tell in this sea of financial meltdowns. However, if there was ever a silver lining in all of this, it is the fact that bad economic times force people to trim back their spending in areas that are not necessities. The exciting part is that trimming in one area means fattening up others. For example, people are spending less money in retail purchases but have sat down at their kitchen tables and put more money in savings. These tight times have also forced people to consider investing in intagible items, such as their ideas and dreams. While stock market and real estate investments have confirmed that there is a such thing as bottoming out, one investment that you can always count on is the investment you place within yourself-- your own dreams and ideas. People have tapped into and poured money into everything except their own dreams. These are the things that really sustain us doing hard times. Dreams and ideas have a way of energizing us, focusing us and affirming our potential to create great things. Dreams and ideas give us hope and empowerment when there seems to be a shortage of it. Building and holding on to our original ideas and creativities give us POWER of ownership and the opportunity to partake in a new FREE market that's not limited by your bank account, education or social status. One of the most overlooked and underestimated investments we have is our intellectual capital-- the POWER to create a product or service that originated within and by YOU. This is one investment that grows in value over time and becomes our safe haven when all else breaks loose. So, when the economy is bad, hold on to your dreams!!!! Push more. Build more. Expect more from your own internal ability to create your own opportunities. As Michael Steele said at the Republican National Convention, "Drill baby, Drill!"
Become a Transformational Leader of Your Own Life
General Colin Powell's referral to Barrack Obama as being "transformational" is the perfect coincidence following a conversation I had with a minister this past weekend. During the celebration of an ordination ceremony, I had the chance to share the 3D workshop with a new network of community leaders. This minister asked about the purpose of the workshops, but more importantly about my studies in Leadership. She specifically wanted a brief explanation of what leadership is. What a great question! Every Leadership Scholar is elated about how the topic has become front and center during the recent presidential race. There has never been a better platform to distinguish between leadership styles. General Powell's description of Obama as "transformational" is an opportunity I cannot pass up. So, to maximize the moment, here are a few definitions of leadership styles and why "transformational" leadership is the style that Powell points to as "I think we need a transformational figure." In a nutshell, here is a short and sweet definition of "Transformational Leadership" from the website changing minds..com:
"The basic assumptions about a transformational leader is that people will follow a person who inspires them. A person with vision and passion can achieve great things. The way to get things done is by injecting enthusiasm and energy. Working for a Transformational Leader can be a wonderful and uplifting experience. They put passion and energy into everything. They care about you and want you to succeed."
Overall, there is a time and place for every leadership style. Ask yourself these questions:
"The basic assumptions about a transformational leader is that people will follow a person who inspires them. A person with vision and passion can achieve great things. The way to get things done is by injecting enthusiasm and energy. Working for a Transformational Leader can be a wonderful and uplifting experience. They put passion and energy into everything. They care about you and want you to succeed."
Overall, there is a time and place for every leadership style. Ask yourself these questions:
- Is it time that you became a transformational leader of your own life?
- Are you enthused and energized by your passions, ideas or dreams?
- Do you have a vision and passion--- the keys to achieving great things?
If you haven't thought about these questions, maybe it is time. Transformational leadership is not limited to Presidential candidates. It is a role we all can play.
Succeed At Changing Your Life....
[I love sharing the feedback my customers and workshop participatns give me!- Dr. Karen :D"I found Destiny, Dreams & Decisions to be one of the most motivating books I've ever read. Dr. Hardy has lived what she preaches and explains how to succeed at changing your life in easy to understand steps. I highly recommend her book."
--James Lewis
Actor, Voiceover Talent, Model
Chapter 10: Going from Inspiration to Affirmation
“I handed out all but one of my books to the women who work for me and my former boss. They were all thrilled. I am so thrilled with your book that I was reading it to my husband as we drove to work this morning. I love the chapter on inspiration and jumping. My former boss and I talked about that chapter for a half-hour this morning. Your exercises and text challenge all women to take control of their lives and make a difference--even me... the writing is so powerful."
Dr. Karen Bowser
Highmark Insurance Company
Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Karen Bowser
Highmark Insurance Company
Pittsburgh, PA
Get the Book!
When I do workshops across the area, people end up buying another book for the person that WASN'T there! "Yes, Dr. Hardy please sign my book and make it out to my sister who should've been here!" I hear it all the time. Got Destiny? Read the book! visit http://www.drkarenspeaks.com/ to purchase it.
Table of Contents:
Let's Warm Up!
The Impact of Your Purpose
Let's Talk About Your Destiny
7 Key Points About Your Destiny
Consider the Source
Let's Talk About Your Dreams
Why Not You?
Time to Make a Decision!
Going from Inspiration to Affirmation
Mission Statements: Write What You See
Setting Strategic Goals
Dream Options
15-Steps to Small Business Ownership
Join the 3D Network
Trying to reach your destiny and fulfilling your dream can be a challenging task. It is one of those activities in life that requires you to be connected to a larger network. Believe it or not, we are all connected in some way and becoming who we truly are and should be takes power: Emotional power, Spiritual power, Intellectual Power. Just POWER! But the power ONE connected to MANY. Join this empowerment network. Schedule a 3D Workshop at your organization. Contact drkarenhardy@yahoo.com for more details.
The Biggest Challenge for Most of Us
For most of us, the biggest challenge to seeing our dream become a reality has little to do with the ability to generate an idea. Rather, it is the inability to execute the plan for that dream or idea that gives us the most trouble. What is the best way to executive a plan? See my book and read the chaper on Setting Strategic Goals....
When You Have Multiple Goals...
A workshop participant asked me "What do you do when you have more than one goal?" One of her dilemnas was that she had competing ideas of what she wanted to do as a career. So, she subsequently jumped from one idea to the next. There are several reasons why you may not be able to focus on one goal. Ask yourself these two questions:
Have you sat down and assessed the pros and cons of each choice? Usually if you have done this this helps the process of elimination and can lead to a more narrowed focus on what you truly want to do.
What is your mission in life? Over time, we end up accumulating a lot of ideas and good intentions but little else simply because we have not identified a mission. Without a personal mission statement, we end up engaging in a lot of activities that lead us to a dead end. Rather than taking on everything why not sit down and determine what your mission is? Without a mission statement, you are more apt to engaged in activities that do not add value to your long term goals. So, write a mission statement. [read this chapter in my book!]
Have you sat down and assessed the pros and cons of each choice? Usually if you have done this this helps the process of elimination and can lead to a more narrowed focus on what you truly want to do.
What is your mission in life? Over time, we end up accumulating a lot of ideas and good intentions but little else simply because we have not identified a mission. Without a personal mission statement, we end up engaging in a lot of activities that lead us to a dead end. Rather than taking on everything why not sit down and determine what your mission is? Without a mission statement, you are more apt to engaged in activities that do not add value to your long term goals. So, write a mission statement. [read this chapter in my book!]
Book Club
Need a book to discuss for your next book club? Why not "Destiny, Dreams & Decisions"? It has recevied rave reviews from readers. If you are interested in having Dr. Hardy come to your Book Club to discuss the "3D's" please send her an email at drkarenhardy@yahoo.com
3D Workshop "Spin Off" Effect
Guess What Dr. Hardy? One of my close friends is in a book club. I just gave her a book as a gift from me. She is usually at my events but had something going on at her church on last Saturday. She is going to present the book to her book club members. They like having the authors come in and talk about the books. They are planning for the first part of the year (around February). I was talking to another young lady this morning who also purchased a book. She asked me about how many books did Isell here because she thought we could get together and go thru the book as a group. The Spin Off Effect is terrific!!! --Summer Gardner Jenkins
3D Workshop at St. Paul Christian Community Church
On October 11, I was invited to deliver a 3D Workshop to the "Sisters Abiding in the Vine Evermore" Women's Ministry at St. Paul Christian Community Church in Washington, DC. To say the least, the experience was amazing! Despite the number of times I present this workshop, I am always taken aback by the feedback I receive from the participants. Here are just a few comments they had about the workshop:
"IT WAS INCREDIBLE!..."
"That's the word that discribes it best - It was incredible! I have been peddling books today and telling everyone that was not there what they missed. I have talked one of my friends into taking the book to her women's ministry leader. Give me a little time to come down because I have been reviewing in my head what happened Saturday and Sunday. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
--Summer Gardner Jenkins
"YOU GAVE ME A SENSE OF WORTH..."
First, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for taking the time outnot only to teach the seminar at my church, but after the seminar you took the time to just sit and talk to me that meant a lot to me. You gave me a sense of worth, you also inspired me to complete what I've started and motivated me to go forward with the things that I have in my plans. Your spirit is so warm, inviting, and comforting, you was a blessing sent and you Blessed me. You gave me the motivation that I needed and I am still onthat high of being motivated to carry out my plans. Your book Destiny Dreams and Decisions is fantastic, the information in it is GREAT! I've already made my list of things to do and I've started crossing them off upon completion. I needed that boost, thank you again.
Ms. Bea Wright
Management & Program Analyst System Operations Flight Services,
Business Administration
"IT WAS INCREDIBLE!..."
"That's the word that discribes it best - It was incredible! I have been peddling books today and telling everyone that was not there what they missed. I have talked one of my friends into taking the book to her women's ministry leader. Give me a little time to come down because I have been reviewing in my head what happened Saturday and Sunday. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
--Summer Gardner Jenkins
"YOU GAVE ME A SENSE OF WORTH..."
First, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for taking the time outnot only to teach the seminar at my church, but after the seminar you took the time to just sit and talk to me that meant a lot to me. You gave me a sense of worth, you also inspired me to complete what I've started and motivated me to go forward with the things that I have in my plans. Your spirit is so warm, inviting, and comforting, you was a blessing sent and you Blessed me. You gave me the motivation that I needed and I am still onthat high of being motivated to carry out my plans. Your book Destiny Dreams and Decisions is fantastic, the information in it is GREAT! I've already made my list of things to do and I've started crossing them off upon completion. I needed that boost, thank you again.
Ms. Bea Wright
Management & Program Analyst System Operations Flight Services,
Business Administration
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