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Passioneering® Journeys with Deborah Drake, Writing Coach and Marketing Consultant

February 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Honored and thrilled to interview Deborah Drake, a writing coach, business and marketing consultant who champions authentic writing for business development. She enjoys helping those who desire to write, publish, and market themselves authentically, boldly, and consistently. Her mantra: “Authentic writing provokes.”
You can reach her at www.deborahdrake.wordpress.com.

Listen live at (347) 205-9038 or archive via the Blog Talk Radio site.

SZO:    What’s your definition of “passion”?

Passion is authentic self-expression, in whatever form that is for a person. For me it involves writing as my Self, for my Self and others and inspiring others to embrace authentic self-expression.

SZO.    Which three of the following factors have been most important in your success?

Love is a given as is Gratitude. And.. Courage, Perseverance, Community

SZO.    What has been your biggest challenge in leaping into your passions, and how you have addressed it?

To balance working and living and ultimately being a good mother has  been my great challenge. Ever since I became a parent, I saw being a good steward of my daughter as my #1 responsibility. That being said, I have raised as early as possible, an independent and interdependent being. Happily, she is clear at the tender age of 11 that she wants to do what she loves from the start, and that makes my continued commitment to my passionate self-directed career eminent and critical.

SZO: Do you have a quote to share that speaks of you and your passions?

Two actually…Speak well of yourself ALWAYS for your deep mind is ALWAYS listening – Anonymous

Honey is the truth on my tongue. –Gina Sala

SZO: What tips do you have for someone to discover what they really love/passion?

  • Ask three people you REALLY trust what they see as your talents above all else.
  • Be open to saying yes where curiosity strikes you.
  • Follow up and follow through on the odd things that interest you.

SZO:  What tips do you have for somebody to do more of what they really love?

Please…

  • Surround yourself with supportive people who are fiercely honest with you.
  • Trust your inner wisdom for it won’t let you down.
  • Create space in your life–if only a little–for being and doing what nourishes you most.
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8-Minute Passioneer® Podblast, Karen Whittier, Founder, Embrace Activism

February 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment

As a yoga instructor, Karen Whittier knows how valuable yoga can be in improving the practitioner’s health and wellness. She believes having good health translates to a high quality of life. She is passionate about extending yoga’s health & wellness for all and is commited to not only empowering people to take control over their own health, but make a difference in the health of others. She can be reached at www.EmbraceActivism.com.

Each week we offer a brief Passioneer® podblast on an aspect of thriving and giving back.  If you would like to share one or other wisdom, ideas, or comments, please let us know below.  Thanks and Happy Passioneering!

Karen’s PodBlast (downloadable version at bottom) and below is the transcript:

SZO:  What are the biggest barriers for budding Passioneers as they move into activism or philanthropy?

Fear of failure or not doing enough. When you’re fueled by passion for a cause you want to make an impact, not just participate. I participated in many events to raise funds/awareness for a variety of diseases—mostly to help in the fight against breast cancer.  Those were amazing experiences where I met people that’d gone through so much.  The admiration I have for  them knows no bounds.   I learned of others that also had gone through a lot, but whether their disease wasn’t found in time or they were under-insured—whatever the reason, the disease ended their life.  I saw the pain of that loss in their loved ones…and empathized, then got angry, and finally determined.  I wanted to empower people to take more control/responsibility over their own health AND contribute to making health better for others.

It can be a daunting, even overwhelming, task once you decide to take the risk to DO something.  Keeping realistic expectations and understanding this is the beginning of a journey can help keep things in perspective.  A quote of Helen Keller’s speaks to doing and doing what you can:  “I am only one, but still I am one.  I cannot do everything, but still I can do something;  and because I cannot do everything I will not refuse something that I can do.” And think of the ripples made from tossing a stone into a lake–that single act has discussions that expand and grow.  You may never know the extent of your actions, but they might be just the spark that sets aflame another’s passion.

SZO: What are your top three tips for these Passioneers to succeed and thrive as activists?

1.  Crystallize your vision–What are you trying to accomplish?  Who are/what are you wanting to benefit?  Setting your goals in clear and specific language will insure you don’t get sidetracked and avoid expending resources–often limited resources– needlessly/unnecessarily.

Typically Passioneers are caring individuals–caring about a lot of things.  But you need to be careful.  For example, if you’ve got products that are specifically suited to children, it wouldn’t make any sense to donate your products to an auction benefitting the environment.  Sure, there could be parents there, but more than likely your products just wouldn’t be on the radar screen of the environmentalists.  If you do want to get some product exposure AND help raise funds for an organization the more effective route would be to align yourself with a charity geared to helping children.

2. Form your support group, a group consisting of people who can advise on business matters  offering honest feedback/advice with individuals that are knowledgeable in their areas of expertise.

I saved myself a ton of headaches and probably a lot of money by using a company leader in importing.  They were more expensive than some, but the personal, customer service I received and the peace of mind knowing all the i’s were dotted and t’s crossed were invaluable.

3.  Recognize the path to success rarely goes straight forward

In addition to the business support group, have a personal support group; one that gives encouragement during those inevitable hiccups.  Posting inspirational quotes like the one above from Helen Keller can help keep your eyes on the goal and periodically reviewing the why(s) and for whom you started this passioneering will help you ride out the bumpy road to success.

I have 3 quotes that resonate for me and together with the Helen Keller quote that essentially sum up the how and why of me and what I’m doing:

  • “You create your own destiny.” Anonymous
  • “The greatest use of a life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.” William James
  • “Yoga teaches us to cure what cannot be endured and endure what cannot be cured.” BKS Iyengar

SZO:  What three resources do you recommend for these Passioneers to check out in this area?

  1. Make use of groups that are in the business of supporting business such as the SBA, Chamber of Commerce.  Networking groups offer great opportunities to meet like-minded  people; get advice or recommendations; and make contact with potential customers/clients.  Similar to the donating product scenario above, checking on the networking group’s focus/interests will save you a lot of time and effort.  Sure the people could be fascinating and engaging, but if their businesses revolve around high fashion, how will that help you with your children’s products?  Also be wary of groups with members that thrust their business card in front of your face; give you their elevator speech and scan the room for their next conquest even before you’ve had time to give your name.  Again, in these situations they will NOT remember you or what you do.
  2. Get involved with social media.  Create a Facebook fan, Twitter and LinkedIn pages to name a few options.  This is another situation where you must evaluate the sincerity of the other person/business before liking or following.  You’ve got to weigh whether you clutter up your page with a non-stop pitches from a serial poster or think of it as a potential link to a possible consumer.
  3. Introduce yourself/company goals to the organizations you want to support.  I would recommend writing a letter as opposed to email and following up with phone call.

SZO:  Anything else?

Take time for yourself.  Indulge in something that brings you joy.  Passioneers have incredible amounts of energy, but even they can suffer burnout.  Don’t expect to be superhuman or selfless…take care of yourself so you’re able to take care of others.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Passioneering® Moment #3: Get Messy as You Unleash Your Passions

January 25, 2011 By 2 Comments

Over the past two years, I have been interviewing Passioneers® around the world – over 350 of them. It’s an honor and joy to hear their journeys, ups and downs, all arounds, and their ah-ha and oh-oh moments. I selected these Passioneers not only because they are living big lives and creating amazing things in the world, but also because they are thriving and prospering big-time as they give back.

One of the greatest lessons I have gleaned from their stories is this: Expect the unexpected. The realm of infinite possibilities, that is our true nature, is a realm of mystery and majesty beyond our five senses, and definitely beyond our logical, left brains. It’s unknown, unknowable, and often mucky, messy, uncontrollable, and uncomfortable. It’s life!

Consider where you are today. Ten years ago, did you imagine doing or being what you are now? I know I didn’t. No business plan or long-term strategy would have predicted that I would be creating a wild and wacky Passions and Possibilities Network with such amazing individuals. In Marshall’s Goldsmith’s book, What Got You Here, Won’t Get You There, he emphasizes the need to release your old success strategy and to embrace the unknown. And, each of the Passioneers I’ve interviewed have had twisting, turning, churning journeys that were far from orderly, planned, or neat.

My invitation this upcoming week? GET MESSY!

It’s a week to let go of:

  • Needing to know how it will look,
  • Doing it right,
  • Wanting to look good
  • And, most importantly, a week to let go of control. Especially if you’re a control freak like me!

After all, there are only three sure things in life: death, taxes, and change. Change, glorious change! For more information about coaching and consulting services for Passioneers…OR if you want to connect with the Passions and Possibilities® community, check out www.passionsandpossibilities.com. Happy Passioneering!

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Passioneer® Harold James Wilkins, CEO and Owner of Tiny Green Cabins, Green Entrepreneur

January 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

We’re honored to interview Harold James Wilkins, CEO and Owner of Tiny Green Cabins, on the radio show The Passions and Possibilities® Network on Wednesday, 9am PST, January 19th.

For several years in talking with his sons, Jim urged them to pursue their dreams, and yet found himself unable to take the risk for himself.  The weekend of Nov 13, 2008, at a retreat in Northern Minnesota on Gull Lake, an idea and dream surfaced that he knew he had to follow. This time, it went further than just dreams and idle talk, and actually moved into a mind mapping of the idea. Before long, he had hard reasons on paper to follow the dream. He now builds small houses, tiny cabins, tiny homes, and tiny houses that honor the environment and vision to make a difference for others.  Jim’s been featured in a variety of media channels, and can be reached at www.tinygreencabins.com

Check out www.blogtalkradio.com/passionsandpossibilities for the show’s archive!

Jim’s Passionography:

SZO: What’s your definition of “passion”?

Passion is the intense love and pursuit of my heart desires, the fire in the belly, the “thing” that makes me come alive with an energy that says this is mine to do.

SZO:  Which factors have been most important in your success? Vision, Faith, Perseverance, and Tenacity

SZO:  What has been your biggest challenge in leaping into your passions, and how you have addressed it?

The critical voice, inner and exterior, that questions or challenges my beliefs and abilities to do what I desire to do. I listen to spirit, the inner voice and intuition, seek out mentors and friends that will support me in my passion, sought counseling to build self esteem and to identify that critical inner voice and make peace with some aspects of it. I have learned to celebrate the achievements, large and small, and rejoice in them by acknowledging/honoring them in some special way. I keep a win journal so that when I get discouraged, I can review the wins and milestones of the journey. And I remember, “This too shall pass” And finally, I have learned to listen to the “whispers” that float through while I am “being”, whenever and wherever that may be.

SZO: Do you have a quote to share that speaks of you and your passion?

Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now. –Goethe

Visioning is a process by which we train ourselves to be able to hear, feel, see, and catch God’s plan for our life or for any particular project we’re working on . . . it is based on the idea that we’re not here to tell God what to do or to ask God for things but to absolutely be available for what God is already doing, to open ourselves up to catch what’s already happening. —Rev. Michael Beckwith, D.D.

SZO:  What tips do you have for someone to create a bigger vision for their lives?

Create a team, support group of like minded individuals for visioning your highest purposes. Each member of the team benefits from the insights and whispers they “catch” while visioning Find a coach or mentor that will be forthright with you, hold your highest vision, and support you in spirit, and is authentic and is in alignment with their beliefs.

SZO:  What tips do you have for somebody to do more of what they really love?

Identify what they love doing, and get curious about the possibilities of what you love doing. Know that you can do it and you can make a living at it. Remain open at the top, meditate and vision regularly, make a practice of it so you can check in on your vision as it reveals itself to you. Start a “win” file so that when things get discouraging, you can pull up your accomplishments and successes. Pick a song that reminds you quickly and easily of what you can do. For me, it is “Amazing Things” by Jana Stanfield.

Thanks Jim and Happy Passioneering!

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Catching and Holding Bigget Vision for Your Life

January 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Vision = Clarity and Focus!

When you make the time to tune into the bigger vision for your life – to steep yourself in it with all of your senses, you can literally call it forth into your life.   Napoleon Hill said “What You can conceive and believe, you can achieve.”   Most folks don’t spend enough time in the conceiving part, so there’s no way they ever get to believing.   That’s where visioning comes in. The visioning exercise posted below was recorded during our first 2011 VisionCasting call, a monthly, free opportunity for you to tune into the vision for your life from the perspective of your Higher Power.

For more information on visioning, click here for the Visioning FAQ. To share your experience or wisdom with our Network or to sign-up for bi-monthly inspiration and tips, please contact us.

30-Minute Visioning Podcast (Facilitator, Sue Zeal Oliver)

(down-loadable version at the bottom of the page).

Transcript from the 1.6.2011 Visioning Exercise:

  • We’ll create a reflective, contemplative place for about 15 minutes and then will ask our Higher Power to share this vision with us. We’ll open up the phone lines at the end, for anyone who wants to share.
  • Please get at least 2 pieces of paper and pen, pencil, markers, or even crayons. Write the words “Vision” on one page, in small letters in the top part; then, “Be” on the back of that page (or use a new sheet); write “Release” on another side or sheet, and then “Anything Else” on the fourth side or sheet.
  • You can use these sheets to write down any images, sensations, words, etc., that come to you during the process, either as they come forth or at the end. I highly recommend doing so throughout.

Background of Visioning

  • Visioning is a tool for connecting with the realm infinite possibilities – your true nature. That which you do not know with your five senses.
  • It goes beyond visualization which is limited to what you have actually seen with your eyes (for example, imagining yourself successfully dunking a basketball through a hoop).
  • In visioning, you ask your Higher Power to share the biggest possible vision for your life. Or for a project, situation, venture – it can be used for any area of your life.
  • You can create time for visioning monthly, weekly, even daily…from a few minutes to several hours. I include it for about 10 minutes in my daily spiritual practice and for a few hours each month.
  • The technique here includes Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith’s line of simple questioning. You can find out more about his programs by Googling Life Visioning or going to his website.
  • I’ll be sharing four simple questions that you can record on your IPOD, phone or other device and use during your own meditation and journaling practices.
  • Ground rules:
  • Ask your censor, left brain, and inner critics to take a break. There’s no right or wrong way to do visioning. It’s highly likely that some of what comes forth will not make sense. That’s OK!
  • Sometimes the answer will come later down the line, and other times, it may not.
  • Please honor the reflective space and the variety of spiritual traditions.
  • Allow each person to share AND be laser like, focused in your sharing.

Visioning Questions:

  • What is the Greatest Good for my life in 2011? What does it look like? Sound like? Feel like? Smell like? Taste Like?
  • What am I to be in order for this Greatest Good to unfold?
  • What am I to release in order for this Greatest Good to unfold?
  • Anything else for me to know about this Greatest Good for my life?

Giving great thanks for what has unfolded and for the truth that as we believe it, it is so. That we are indeed here for a Higher Purpose – spiritual beings having a human experience.

************************************

Happy Passioneering!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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What’s Between You and Expressing Your Passions Fully?

January 5, 2011 By Leave a Comment

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Passioneer® Andrew Harrison, Author, Inspirational Speaker, Researcher

December 14, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Andrew Harrison is the author of Love Your 84,000 Hours at Work: Stories on the Road from People with Purpose and Passion, which chronicles people from around the United States who love their careers and how they came to find them.

His travels (www.iamontheroad.com) have taken him over three years, 75,000 miles and 145 one-on-one interviews. “The journey has been the most incredible thing I’ve ever been a part of,” he says. “It has changed my life.”  His first book, “Love Your 84,000 Hours at Work: Stories On the Road From People With Purpose and Passion,” explains what he’s learned from his travel experiences interviewing passionate people about their life, job and career path.

Andrew Harriso

Harrison  is called “The Seeker” because he left a six figure job to travel the country interviewing people passionate about their work and life. After 95,000 miles and 145 interviews, his journey and the stories of those he met on the road inspire people to live their life to the fullest. He can be reached at www.84000hours.com

We’re interviewing Andrew on the radio show, The Passions and Possibilities Network, broadcasting this Wednesday, December 15th, 2010 at 9am PST.  Tune in live via (347) 205-9038 or streaming audio:  The Passions and Possibilities Radio Show

Andrew’s Passiongraphy Q&A:

SO: What’s your definition of “passion”?

Loving your life.

SO: What have been the key factors in your success and what one word best describes it?

Once I truly believed that there were passionate people in the world, I dedicated my life to becoming one of them. The road has not been an easy one, but because I had a vision for where I wanted to go, I was able to sacrifice and overcome obstacles. By meeting and interviewing passionate people, I have been able to integrate their experiences and views into my own life – and then share them with others.  I think the word that best describes my journey is Perseverance.

SO: What has been your biggest challenge(s) in leaping into your passions, and how you have addressed them?

In the book, one of my interviewees talks about listening to your gut, rather than your ego. That is easier said than done. In the United States, material things (ego) can cause us to work at jobs we don’t love. The societal pull of “doing what you are supposed to do” has been a big challenge. I was supposed to be happy with the money and the lifestyle I had. Instead, I addressed the challenge by not listening to society and going with my gut. Now society is opening its ears to me, my passionate interviewees, and the message of loving your 84,000 hours at work.

SO: Who or what inspired you to leap into your passion?

I was living the supposed “good life” of a lot of money and time, but it was also an unfulfilled life. After struggling with feeling like something was missing, I decided to look for my answers. Some say I took a big risk; I say it was a risk that had to be taken. What inspired me to go for it? Other passionate people. Once I knew they were out there, I knew I had to become one of them. It turns out meeting passionate people and sharing their stories is my purpose and passion.

SO: Do you have a quote that you would like to share that speaks of you and your passion?

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined.” – Thoreau

SO: What do you hope people would say about you when you’re gone?

He lived his life to the fullest and he helped other people live their lives to the fullest.

SO: What three brief tips can you give to somebody making the leap into their passion?

Step 1: Know that without a doubt, there are people who love their work.

Step 2: Know that without a doubt, you can become one of them.

Step 3: To get to where you want to go; figure out who you are, what motivates you, what doesn’t, what you value and what your vision for your life is. Once you have a vision, you can create a plan and start working the plan.

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Collecting YOUR tips on Finding Passions and Purpose

December 11, 2010 By Leave a Comment

We’re creating a wisdom-packed January on the theme of vision and purpose. That is, how to tap into the biggest picture of your Passioneering journey, instead of getting bogged down in the day-to-day “stuff”.  If you are a vibrant, conscious entrepreneur or leader with some insights on this topic, please share a tip below.  You’ll receive full attribution, including your picture and a link-back to your website, if we choose your tip.

Passioneer® Tip Guidelines:

  • Feel free to be passionate and fun in your responses!
  • Submit a tip of 125 words or less.  Longer submissions will be returned for editing.
  • Please focus on content and inspiration; no marketing plugs or hyperlinks.
  • Include your name, title, website link, and a quality picture.

To join our growing list of Passioneer Tip Contributors and receive our twice-monthly tip queries and updates, click here.   You can unsubscribe at any time.

Happy Passioneering!

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Passioneer® Glenton Davis, Founder and Executive Director, Soul Pop U

December 7, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Glenton Davis serves as Founder and Executive Director of Soul Pop U. Davis is a cum laude graduate of the prestigious Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut, and a graduate of Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in Economics. Immediately following, he went to Wall Street where he spent over two years working as the financial analyst to the Chief Investment Officer of J.P. Morgan Global Asset & Wealth Management, responsible for over $600 billion in discretionary assets. His hard work and talent at the financial titan earned him a place in Fortune Magazine’s “Faces of the Future” – a list of Who to Watch among young people in the corporate world. He recently left Wall Street to pursue a full time career in music, and to promote the release of his EP “Are You Ready,” which was released to critical acclaim and yielded a Top 400 dance single in Canada called “Go Get on the Floor”. Davis also has a publishing deal with Munich based The Globe Art Group, distributed by Sony/BMG. Davis has also worked in youth development as a Student Advocate for the Harlem Children’s Zone. He can be reached at http://www.soulpopuniversity.com.

We’re interviewing Glenton on the radio show, The Passions and Possibilities Network, broadcasting this Wednesday, December 8, 2010 at 9am PST.  Tune in live via (347) 205-9038 or streaming audio:  The Passions and Possibilities Radio Show

Glenton’s Passiongraphy Q&A:

SO: What’s your definition of “passion”?

Passion is discovering your Life Purpose, the overarching and intangible “it” which gets you out of bed and keeps you out of bed with a burning desire to share it with others.

SO: What have been the key factors in your success and what one word best describes it?

One word: ASK
The key factor to my early success has been to get on the phone and ask, write that email and ask, drop by that office unannounced, and ASK. Ask until someone says YES.

SO: What has been your biggest challenge(s) in leaping into your passions, and how you have addressed them?

My biggest challenge has been dealing with the uncertainty. Regardless of how sound your plan may be – whether it be organizational, financial, personal or otherwise – things change, quickly. And the changes can hurt, badly. I’ve had to learn that after you jump off the cliff, you will undoubtedly hit some big rocks while you build the wings to fly. It takes unparalleled resilience to keep building those wings – a resilience I have had to dig really deep into my being to find. The blessing is when you begin to uncover it you can learn to trust that this light of entrepreneurship is a gift – YOUR gift – to share with the world.

SO: Who or what inspired you to leap into your passion?

After 2 and a half years on Wall Street, I decided to leave for two reasons. First, I realized that I have been given so many opportunities so early in my life. Why not take them and leverage them into a venture about which I was wholly passionate? I am 25 years old. Now is my time to step out on faith, to take big risks to contribute, to give back, and to make my career and my life fully my own. Second, I also am a recording artist, and my single “Go Get on the Floor” broke through the Top 400 pop songs in Canada, lighting a fire beneath me to give all of these passions a go. I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur, to run my own businesses, to grow them and watch them develop into brands, into ways of life that give back to the communities around them. My work up until now has all been a series of stepping stones towards this goal.

SO: Do you have a quote that you would like to share that speaks of you and your passion?

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.”    – Goethe

SO: What do you hope people would say about you when you’re gone?

Glenton Davis was a man of great passion and great spirit who lived his ultimate purpose in this life: to make our souls pop.

SO: What three brief tips can you give to somebody making the leap into their passion?

For aspiring entrepreneurs, I can offer the following advice. If you’re waiting until you’re ready, until you have enough money saved, until this, that, or the other – embrace the fear and step off the cliff. You will never be ready. Trust yourself to build wings on the way down. Another lesson that I continue to learn – and one that I think is crucial to achieving success as an entrepreneur – is to define your vision, see that vision in front of you, and commit to turning your thoughts into something tangible, no matter what. There will undoubtedly be roadblocks along the way. Some will feel larger than life, as though they cannot be moved and you cannot find a way around them. With time, learn to be strong like steel, to keep your higher purpose for change, for action, burning bright in the forefront of your mind. It will not always be easy, and it will not always feel good. Trust that with committed persistence, you will manifest tomorrow for others what you see today.

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13-Minute Passioneer® PodBlast: Beth Buelow, Introvert Entrepreneur Coach, Speaker, Blogger

December 6, 2010 By Leave a Comment

We recently interviewed Beth Buelow, CEO and founder of The Introvert Entrepreneur.  She is a professional speaker and leadership coach who helps introverts understand, own and leverage their strengths. She challenges the introvert stereotypes and is on a mission to bridge the communication gap between the “strong, silent” types and the “loud and proud.” Her business, The Introvert Entrepreneur, provides products and services that are designed for introverts who want to be wildly successful while still being authentic.  Listen to her PodBlast at the bottom of this post.

Summary of Beth’s PodBlast:

Sue. What are the biggest challenges that budding Passioneers who are introverts face?

Beth:

  • Self-promotion. Introverts are usually more comfortable putting the spotlight on others, rather than themselves. This can be a huge asset; our self-effacing nature means we’re good at lifting up others. This tendency needs to be balanced with showing up confidently and being able to speak clearly about our own value.
  • Head games. Introverts are internal processors; the wheels are always quietly turning inside our heads, and this can lead to paralysis by analysis, as well as believing we have to think something through 110% before we can speak about it or act on it.
  • Being authentic. There is a lot of pressure to be out, social, on stage, “selling” yourself. Introverts are capable of doing all of these things, and finding a way to do it that honors our introverted personality and needs can be challenging.
  • Managing energy. This is related to authenticity; if we feel pressure to show up as extroverts (lots of events, being really “on,” constantly putting ourselves out there), our energy reserves can drain out rather quickly. It requires really owning our energy and needs and being able to set boundaries for ourselves (rather than “I should do this”). Staying in a place of choice is critical.

Sue:  What are your top three tips for these Passioneers to outrageously thrive as they give back?

Beth: All three of these are ways to protect your energy as your success becomes more present and pronounced.

  • Choose your commitments strategically and intentionally. As you become more successful, more people will want a piece of you. It can be tempting to say “yes” too often. Decide what types of opportunities best align with your vision, BEFORE you’re faced with saying yes or no.
  • Leverage your strengths. Seek challenges and situations that allow you to tap into your innate strengths: thoughtfulness; preference for depth over breadth; being calm, cool, collected; good listener.
  • Reach out. Whoever coined the phrase, “if you want it done right, do it yourself,” was probably an introvert! We tend to think we can handle everything on our own, because it might feel like it would be more work (and therefore, an energy drain) to bring other people into our processes. However, done strategically and intentionally (again, choosing partners or vendors in accordance to what aligns with your vision, rather than saying “yes!” to anyone who asks you), it can increase your capacity to accomplish your goals and provide you with some relief. Recognize when it’s time to ask for support or partnership.

Sue:  What three resources do you recommend for these Passioneers to check out?

Beth:

  • The Introvert Advantage by Marti Olsen Laney: a great primer for anyone who wants to learn more about what it means to be an introvert.
  • Good to Great by Jim Collins: His chapter on Level 5 Leadership answers the question of whether or not introverts can make great leaders (the answer is yes!). I also appreciate the lessons that Passioneers can learn from applying the Hedgehog Concept and Flywheel analogy to their businesses.
  • Works by Carl Jung and in particular, about the shadow: for deeper understanding of being an introvert and why we sometimes disown that part of ourselves. A good starting point is Debbie Ford’s The Dark Side of the Light Chasers.

Sue:  Anything else?

Beth: I have a few resources designed specifically to support introverts and introvert entrepreneurs:

Blog, Podcast, Coaching, Workshops, Etc: www.TheIntrovertEntrepreneur.com

Facebook Community: www.Facebook.com/TheIntrovertEntrepreneur

Twitter: @coachbethb

Final Words (Beth):

Practice using a “beginner’s mind” approach to your work. Introverts are generally good at research and have a “need to know.” Practice spending some time in the “not knowing.” Experience things with a beginner’s mind and eye, allowing yourself to notice what’s happening not just with your mind, but with your body. Be open to the opportunities that arise when you remove the pressure to be perfect or to be an expert.

Thanks Beth and Happy Passioneering!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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PassionBlast #12: Tips from Successful Passioneers®

December 1, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Twice a month, we share tips, stories, and quotes to inspire social and spiritual leaders and entrepreneurs who want to thrive as they share their talents and gifts.  If you would like to contribute your story or wisdom, please contact us here.  Our contributors receive a heads-up on our themes, articles, and story requests and full attribution and link-backs for their submissions.

“You can start with nothing. And out of nothing, and out of no way, a way will be made” ~ Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith

Tips for Thriving as You Give Back in the World

Passioneer® Melissa Plaskoff, Founder and CEO of Lemons to Aid

  • Figure out what speaks to you.
  • Decide how much of a commitment you want to give to your passion.
  • Find a way to make it happen (it may be a fun way, volunteering, starting a business) and it will all work itself out. When you find your passion, it really is simple. I’m doing it now!
  • Melissa’s full passion0graphy: click here.

Passioneer Paula Caligiuri, Author and Career Coach

  • You cannot own your job but you can own your career.  Stay in control of your own development.
  • Have a well-formulated plan on achieving your career goal.  Sometimes one aspect of your career may need to fund another.
  • Manage all of your resources well:  time, money, energy.  Use your discretionary resources to move you closer to your career goal.
  • Paula’s full passionography: click here.

Passioneer Stephanie A. Jones, Political/Social Scientist, Founder of Geek Nerd Wonk

  • You must be prepared to work harder than you can conceivably imagine.  That means a 9-5 job to keep a roof over your head, and another 6 hours per day devoted to your true passion and/or volunteering, to whatever feels most authentic to you.  If you do not work 14-16 hours a day you will never escape your 9-5 job, when the goal is to be so successful at your authentic job you can do IT alone for 14-16 hours a day.
  • There is no vacancy waiting for you.  You have to claim your space. There is no room at the top just waiting for your particular brilliance, ready and willing to step to the side to enable your joining the hallowed ranks.  Educate yourself, give of yourself, establish your credibility, and then march in and claim your space.  Then work twice as hard to maintain your right to be there.
  • If you tell the truth. 100% of the time, you never have to remember anything you have ever said.
  • Stephanie’s full passionography: click here.


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The Essence of Passioneering: 12 Keys to Thriving as You Give Back

November 17, 2010 By 2 Comments

Since December 2008, I’ve had the honor and joy to interview over 300 bold, inspiring leaders and entrepreneurs who are leaping vibrantly and passionately into making big, positive contributions in the world.  I call them Passioneers® and have been featuring their stories in a variety of venues, including radio interviews and blog posts, to share this very simple and powerful message:  When you do what you love AND give back, the rest does follow.   The vision is to bring these thriving Passioneers together to inspire and support budding Passioneers so they too can pay it forward.  Think “pay it forward” multiplied many times over.

The journeys are vividly unique and poignant, yet I have discovered a common thread of twelve qualities that weaves itself throughout – a kind of Passioneering “lifeline” for what it really takes to make big impacts in the world AND remain vibrant and prosperous along the journey.  Below are the twelve Passioneering Essences, which are now making their way into a new book (January 2011 launch) and upcoming blog posts:

  1. Vision: A bigger you requires a bigger view.
  2. Love: Let love connect the dots.
  3. Zeal: Spread the pathogen of passion. It’s incurable.
  4. Courage: Fear is inevitable.  Leap anyway.
  5. Faith: With seed-like faith, you’ll move mountains.
  6. Service: Pay it generously forward in all directions.
  7. Perseverance:   Take quitting permanently off of the table.
  8. Integrity: Put the walk into your talk.  Frequently.
  9. Community: Assign a powerful team to unleash your dream.
  10. Vibrancy: Nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
  11. Prosperity: Be a pump for prosperity, in AND out.
  12. Gratitude: Cultivate a grateful heart.

Cheers and Happy Passioneering!

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