14 Fabulous Tips to Live Your Best Life Now!

PHENOMENAL FEMALE BLOGGER SERIES CONTINUES...
With SYBIL CHAVIS

1. Realize with absolute certainty that life puts in front of you exactly what you need at each precise moment so there is no reason to question or resent anything that comes your way. Trust in that truth and always find your way to accepting everything.

2. Understand the truism that "everything proceeds by an orderly sequence of growth" (Thomas Troward). Be patient with what you are trying to do and most importantly enjoy the journey. What you learn will ultimately be more important than reaching your destination.

3. Always keep it top of mind that we don't just attract what we want, we also attract things to us based on the type of person we are and how we behave everyday. It is important to make the best decisions as much as possible and always feel you are honestly doing the right thing.

4. Enjoy what you do for your job or anything else you do the majority of the day. If you don't enjoy whatever it is you are doing, either improve your perspective about it or change what you are doing. There is nothing more important than your peace of mind and how good you feel as you move through your day. Don't let your job or anything else ruin or interfere with your natural positive energy.

5. If at first you don't succeed, there is a reason why and you should focus on figuring out that reason. It is not just about blindly trying again. Learn the lessons you need in order to succeed in the future.

6. When you are trying to figure out what to do, don't overlook the fact that you probably have the answer. Ask yourself questions and patiently await the answers or pointers in the right direction.

7. If you aren't making progress in any area, check for limiting beliefs and doubts that may be holding you back. If you are able to identify them, focus on chipping away at them.

8. Choose to be around people you feel good about. However, also know that when you are around challenging people, you are much better off to focus on the good things about them instead of what is wrong with them and their idiosyncrasies. If you don't see anything good, then look harder.

9. The best way to live everyday is to pour your passion and attention into whatever is currently in front of you. Always focus on what you are currently experiencing and don't obsess about what has happened or what you think will happen in the future.

10. Enjoy life and always have positive energy flowing through you. Have a natural zest for life and take every opportunity to appreciate both the little and big things. Focus on what is great about the moment and the people around you.

11. Unplug and unwind and make it a part of your daily routine to take time for yourself. Do activities that help you find your great peace of mind, such as yoga, meditation, exercising or anything else that works for you.

12. Know that your life has the potential to be amazing and you can accomplish things beyond your wildest dreams. Believe this and constantly do things that are in line with this reality.

13. Give what you can to others and love being able to give. See your ability to give as an opportunity to do good things and feel great, not a responsibility. Whether it is money, time, attention, kindness or just a simple smile, focus on helping and making other people feel good.

14. Don't try to control everything. Let go and let things unfold as they are meant to. Realize sometimes things need to happen so great things can come together.
There is a different way to live ... that is the alternaview.


BIO:
Sibyl Chavis writes about the importance of seeing life from a different perspective and discovering alternaviews. She is an avid reader and blogger and has spent her career as an executive in the legal and human resources fields. As a human resources professional, she has many years of experience counseling, coaching and helping other people realize their potential. Visit her blog at www.alternaview.com

Phenomenal Female Blogger Series One Woman Makes a Difference for Many

"Be the change you wish to see in the world," states Gandhi.
But few do.

That's why the success story of Sheila Blagg is worth sharing.
After dealing with the devastation of divorce and rebuilding her life, eight years ago, she felt there was a definite void in available information, support and resources for those sharing the same journey.

There was information out there, but it became like a scavenger hunt, trying to gather bits and pieces from an array of service providers and sources.
It became a daunting task.
So she answered the call.

Enter Divorce 2 Dating.
A new social network for divorced, separated and widowed individuals seeking to become "better, not bitter" and navigate a new path.
Members have access to attorneys, relationship and fitness experts, mediator services, chat rooms, and more.

There's even a forum for kids dealing with divorce to share their concerns and fears with other teens.

Members can also be inspired by Blagg's own experience that "love can be better the second time around."
Blagg is now happily married and a successful entrepreneur and mom.
She blogs about important relationship building issues, and provides personal insight at her site as well.

One person can make a difference. And Sheila Blagg is perfect proof!

For more details, be sure to visit Divorce2Dating.com.
Membership is $9.95 a month.


Thoughts? Questions?

Charlie Sheen's Shenanigans!

Lessons on Career Damage Control for Writers
(courtesy of Charlie Sheen)

Unless you’ve been living under a rock lately, you’ve heard of the shenanigans, fights, and “fall from grace” of popular comedian and actor, Charlie Sheen.

From his unconventional lifestyle and fast-lane living, to his unorthodox ways of handling his career and his cuties, it seems that he’s been covered everywhere as of late.

And make no mistake about it: I am a big fan. Like millions of other American viewers, I watched his popular sitcom, “Two and a Half Men” weekly,
religiously--for years, in fact.

But contrary to the saying, “there’s no such thing as bad publicity,” his career is proof positive that too much of a good thing can be bad.

So what does this have to do with writing and making money?
I’ll tell you.
In a very similar sense we are “performers” too.
As such, it’s all about career management, being in the “public eye”, and protecting our bottom line.

Here are a few pointers to help put this in proper perspective and help you to earn and maintain a profitable living:

1. Showing your __$$ in public can compromise your assets. Sheen shot himself in the foot via interviews and public statements. Sometimes with writers it comes in the form of belittling editors on a blog. Or engaging in battles with publishers or other creative artists in public social media forums like Twitter or Facebook. Either way it can be career suicide. Sheen went from “black tie affairs” to being black balled. Don’t let it happen to you.

2. Humor isn’t always universal. Use it sparingly and in good taste. For example, noted pastor and best-selling author, Joel Osteen, begins his weekly sermons with a joke. It has become part of his branding and his popularity. It works if you work it right!

3. Never bite the hand that feeds you. For writers this means being professional with publishers and being accountable to our readers and people who purchase our products. Don’t cheat them by giving less than your best.

4. Recognize that even “divas” can be dismissed! Even though Charlie was no doubt a huge money-maker for the network that employed him, he perhaps thought that he was indispensable, as evidenced by his words and actions. Bad move. Be careful not to be more trouble than you’re worth.

5. When you make a mistake, own up to it, ask forgiveness, then move forward. It happens to the best of us. You misspell an editor’s name. Or you get a fact wrong in an interview, or your simultaneous submission gets accepted by two different editors simultaneously. Ouch. Fess up and find a way to prevent your faux pas from happening again.

6. Controversy sells, but balance is crucial. In fact, too much can peg you as a bitter grape, a loose cannon, or a creative who’s out of control. Keep this in mind as you create content and craft your career.


Follow these six sage tips to protect your bottom line and to enjoy encore performances with publishers and fans.

What say you?

Article first published as Career Damage Control: Lessons for Writers and Entrepreneurs, Courtesy of Charlie Sheen on Technorati.

7 Fool-Proof Ways to Kick Procrastination in the Pants!

There are 100s of bright and talented writers whose works you will never read.

They will never motivate, move you to tears, or make a difference.
How do I know?
Because I have had the pleasure of teaching them in creative classes and workshops throughout my career.
They are Black and White, both men and women, young and old.
Some even with “rocket science” potential.

The prospect of which saddens me.
For as a friend of mine often states, we all have a piece of the puzzle of this thing called life, of which we uniquely possess. Nobody has the exact same vision or creative voice.

Yet I see it far too often.
Here’s the script: an aspiring writer will sign up for my class.
He/she will enthusiastically ask questions and pen copious notes.
They leave the session singing my praises, and swearing to put into practice the things they have learned.

Then, guess what?
They get home and reality settles in. There are everyday distractions—a demanding job, family obligations, and plaguing doubt. Not to mention, there never seems to be enough time.

Consequently, they join the ranks of the “someday” people.
You know them.
“Someday I’m gonna finish that novel.” “Someday I’ll publish my poetry.” And someday never comes.

When I follow-up with them, months later, I find that they’ve given up on their dreams, while toiling on dead end jobs. Perhaps you’re even one of them.

Given this scenario, how does one go from good intentions to great author?

Here’s how to start:

In the words of a very famous Nike commercial—“Just do it!” Start somewhere, anywhere. Pen a piece for your community newspaper or your church’s newsletter. Believe me when I say that the thrill of a byline is addictive. I’ve been writing for 15 years, and every time I go to a bookstore or supermarket and open a book or magazine with my work, I get that same original high! Still.

Get a Goal Buddy. You know how some people have work out buddies to tag along with them at the gym to stay motivated and accountable?
It works for writing as well. Perhaps it can be a friend with similar aspirations, or even someone you meet through an online bulletin board.
Remember to exercise caution in the selection process.

Establish Short and Long Term Goals. Where would you like to see yourself a month from today? A year down the line? Decide, then write it down. Studies show that people who commit their goals to writing are 3x more likely to achieve them.

Set Deadlines. A goal without a deadline is just a dream.

Stop Striving for Perfection—Instead pursue excellence. Sometimes procrastination occurs simply because of over analysis and over editing. Write it to the best of your ability, and then send it off already! It doesn’t have to be picture perfect; that’s what editors are for.

Set Priorities. Can you have it all? Most definitely. Just not all at the same time. Know that there are sacrifices to be made. For example, sometimes my writing causes me to live the life of a hermit. For you it may be fewer hours in front of the TV. Which is more important?

Know that “Discipline” is not a Dirty Word. Believe it or not, good habits are just as easy to cultivate as bad ones. Sit down to your computer or journal-- daily, weekly, or whatever works for you. But be committed and consistent. Then watch the results!

HERE ARE SOME RESOURCES TO HELP:

CREATIVE WRITING PROMPTS.COM--- Helps to jumpstart the creative juices through prompts and exercises.
WRITERSDIGEST.COM—--Considered the “voice of authority” on writing and related markets, did you know that they also offer 52 prompts (one per week) to help you generate creative pieces and produce more?
CREATIVITYPORTAL.COM---Provides prompts, inspiration, and excellent resources for writers.

So what are you waiting for?
To quote a popular saying, “Most people won’t regret the things they have done when their life is over. It’s the things they didn’t do that they will most regret.”
Don’t let that be you. Immortality awaits!

Writers (and other creatives), how do you deal with procrastination? Please share any tips, tools, or experiences with us.
Image: nuttakit

Phenomenal Blogger Series

Are You the CEO of You, Inc.?
By: Susan Bulkeley Butler

It is so much fun to be celebrating Women’s History Month with all of you – a wonderful time to think about the women “pioneers” and more importantly, how we are changing the world for our daughters and granddaughters.

When I think of who I am today… wow! Forty-six years ago, I left Purdue University to begin my career with Arthur Andersen & Co.

Since then, I have been a computer programmer, a real “techie,” a business consultant, an intrepreneur (created the change management line of business), a partner at Accenture, and a managing partner of the office of the CEO of Accenture. Now, as the CEO of my Institute for the Development of Women Leader, I am impacting zillions of women and girls.

In summary, I think of myself as part of Susan B. Anthony (continuing to bring about equality for women by 2020), Amelia Earhart (dreaming big), and Gloria Steinam (changing the world for women).

So, how did all of this happen?

First, my parents said: “You can do anything you set your mind to do.” That was a good start.

One of my professors at Purdue got me started when he helped convince Arthur Andersen & Co. that they should hire me.

After a few “fits and starts,” I learned how to “make things happen for me, rather than let things happen to me.”

By this, I mean:
Determine your aspirations by continuing to answer the following question: What do you want to say you have accomplished in five years? I have proactively changed my career direction every three to five years.

Develop your team of mentors and advocates who will help you achieve your goals. These, too, will change as your aspirations change. They are mentors, advocates, role models, etc.

Create your annual plan to achieve your aspirations, including altering either one or both when appropriate.
Working with your plan every day, insuring you are making progress for You, Inc.

Two more important aspects that you must keep in mind are that you must invest time on yourself to make things happen, and you must take responsibility for who you are and who you want to be.

These steps continue to help me be who I am every day.

I am CEO of Me, Inc.

How successful are you as CEO of You, Inc.? Are you making this happen for you, or are you letting things happen to you?

BIO:
Susan Bulkeley Butler has been proving that women count ever since she rose from her roots as a small-town girl in Illinois to become the first female professional at Arthur Andersen & Co. in 1965 and later the first female partner of what would become Accenture. Now, as a philanthropist, mentor, speaker, executive coach and CEO of the Susan Bulkeley Butler Institute for the Development of Women Leaders, she is serving as a delegate to Vision 2020, a groundbreaking national project focused on advancing gender equality.

Image photographer photostock

Apples & Oranges -The Difference Between Writing for Play and Writing for Pay!

There are as many different reasons for blogging as there are audiences.
For example, some blog to share their views with like minded readers. Others may blog to vent about office drama, bad bosses, and events of the day as a way of release. Many use it as a vehicle for sharing their creative works and building a platform.

Still there are others that merely like to "strut their stuff" before a virtual audience because it feels good to their ego. To each his own.

But, rest assured that regardless as to the motive, there's a difference between blogging for pleasure and blogging for pay. And those who fail to know the difference may fail to earn money for their efforts.

This realization came to me awhile ago, in reading the posts of a fellow blogger that was doling out advice in the form of a how-to.

She suggested that bloggers write for themselves, and not worry about what readers felt. Huh? Pursue your passion and forget the advice of "experts" she suggested.
Can I share a secret? And this is not to disparage her views in any way. She was just simply misguided.

That approach and fifty cents will get you about as far as the corner. Seriously. Of course, if your blog is simply recreational in nature, and it's for your family and friends, and a way to save on potential therapy. I agree; by all means let your hair down! Do you.

But, don't expect a career as a "pro" blogger where you'll be paid.

I liken this to cooking for yourself vs. being a professional chef. If you want folks to keep coming back for more, you have to serve it up right!

And I say this as a writer who started out blogging for pleasure, who has since then evolved into a "pro blogger" who has been paid to blog on everything from business blogging, to romance-related posts, to even blogging about jazz music. On the regular!

Here's what you need to know if you'd like to do the same.

1. Know your audience, and let that knowledge be revealed in the topics you address, your tone, and your language. Keeping them in mind keeps them coming back.

2. Stay on topic. If I must admit, when I visit some sites, I'm not sure of what the focus or objective is. One day it might be about food, the next day about dogs, the next day about celebrities. That's okay for a "personal blog" but not a professional one. Of course, unless it's a commentary blog.

3. Watch your language and how much you reveal. I did a recent post that elaborates on this point at Workawesome. com.

4. Take advice from those who have been successful in venturing the path you choose to pursue. To quote a recent comment I heard, "Everybody's got a voice. But not everybody deserves the microphone." Are you with me here?

5. Know that numbers matter. Particularly in the form of blog comments and visible followers. Here's why: If you show no ability to engage your own target audiences with your writing, it will be hard to convince potential clients that your writing will be a hit in marketing their site, product, or services either. Make sense? :-)

Keep these five tips in mind to build your blogging career and your bottom line.

Thoughts?


IMAGE: Suvro Datta

Phenomenal Blogger Series

STEPHANIE J. GATES...ON BEING GRown

Having a conversation with some of my college students recently ages 18-52; I came to understand how much of being grown is misunderstood by the masses. It was the 18 year-old of course who proclaimed her grown-ness. I chuckled to myself as I reminisced on thinking I was grown at 18, 21, 30 etc.--buying into the hype that it is a magic number that makes us full- fledged adults, full fledged women even.

For some, it’s when we take on grown-up responsibilities or do adult things like my former 7th grade student who had a baby and thought she was more woman than me. So many times I thought I was grown for real: having my heart mangled; fighting fibroids and nullifying my chances of having a baby; finishing my degrees in the midst of whatever was going on at the time; caring for and losing loved ones; knowing when to move on, when to stay, not knowing-- and living through it anyway.

There is a huge difference between being an adult and being grown: one is a number; the other is a lifetime of living. Certain expectations come with age, but how many times do we fall short? We might be adults, but can we really say we’re grown when some of us still pout and/or throw tantrums when we don’t get our way, can’t live without gossiping, passing judgment or keeping up with the Joneses. How often do we know the right thing to do, but just don’t to do it?

There are times in my life when I don’t want to take the high road or do what needs to be done. I simply want to be an irresponsible adult living my life and not answering to anyone. But that’s not real life unless you have a trust fund or your name is Charlie Sheen.

So, I have to accept the responsibility that comes with being grown as opposed to just being an adult. Grown is a place that we visit, some of us more often than others, but it is not a place of permanent residency because as soon as we’re comfortable and settled in, it’s time to move on because life is about growing through changes.

BIO: Stephanie J. Gates is an educator, blogger, editor and freelance writer. Her publishing credits include: Being Single Magazine, N'Digo, Mahogany Magazine, and several popular anthologies for women.


Image Photographer Dan

News You Can Use!

Hi Folks!

Due to a tight schedule and a busy week ahead, this is gonna' be short and sweet!

Reminder, Coffeehouse for Writers will start the new session of fun, interactive, online classes for writers on Monday. Classes are less expensive and more intensive than other writers' courses. So if you've been vowing to improve your writing and perhaps get paid, there's no better time than the present!

Offerings include: How to quit your day job; Blogging for pleasure or profit; Discovery through journaling; How to overcome writer's block and more! Credit cards and checks accepted.

See Coffeehouseforwriters.com for details.

Guest posting opps--As previously promised! 52 Blogs that accept guest posts, courtesy of Piggy Bank Pie. See the section, "Where to start guest blogging."

And last, but not least, the Phenomenal Woman Blogger Series continues here at Pen and Prosper!
I look forward to receiving your submissions and sharing your success stories with my readers.

Have a groovy weekend!

Image nuttakit

5 Ways to Remain Fierce in the Face of Rock Star Clients!

I was pleased as punch, a while back ago, after receiving an Email from a potential client seeking my creative services.
And who wouldn't be?
Let's face it, new business is to entrepreneurs what sunshine is to plants; it keeps us alive and thriving.
So I excitedly responded to her with curiosity and mutual interest.

I discovered from her initial Email that she owned her own business, and had obtained my contact info from an on line organization of which we were both members.
After assessing ”tentative” goals and outlining a game plan, we agreed to work together the following week.

Through our brief intro, she didn't provide much personal information as to the person behind the project. So in order to get a feel for her personality and strategic direction, I did what most scribes and savvy business owners would do; I did my homework. I Googled her and conducted some research via various on line resources.
Wow, was I impressed!
This diva had more “degrees” than Chicago's weather!
Her bio boasted a doctorate degree, a highly regarded practice, and professional memberships in some pretty impressive organizations.
And she wanted me to help her to become a better writer?
Imagine that.

All of a sudden my usual confidence was compromised by plaguing questions and the self consciousness of a teenager.
What could I teach her that a person of her stature probably doesn't already know?
Would she challenge my directives? Second guess my suggestions? Correct my word choices? Condescend? Frown on my fragments?

My mind began to race with ridiculous thoughts!
So I decided to have a few pieces of chocolate and take a “chill pill.”
After I came to my grips, here's how I got back into the groove and gained perspective.

Doctors and “rock stars” and scholars...oh my!
I present to you, five ways to remain fierce in the face of “rock star” clients...

1. Recognize that some of the most brilliant minds have difficulty expressing themselves effectively. If you're gifted with this ability, capitalize on it, don't question it, trivialize it, or compare it to others' achievements.
2. Know that a few “high quality” clients can add greatly to your business image and your bottom line. As they say, “we are judged by the company we keep.”
3. If you're asked to do something that's a little out of your league, be honest and say so. Integrity is just as important as skill in cultivating repeat business.
4. Strive for excellence, not perfection. Replace pressure with pleasure. Truth be told, sometimes we're much more critical of ourselves than others would reasonably be. Do your best, then give it a rest! And have fun along the way.
5. “Never let 'em see you sweat.” Others' confidence level in you and your ability will be directly correlated to how much you project an image of confidence and competence in your interaction. If you seem intimidated, uncertain, or nervous when presented with a particular project or challenge, it will definitely cause doubt and difficulty for those whose confidence and trust you seek to capture. Play it cool as a cucumber.


Follow these five tips with your rock star clients and you're sure to garner rave reviews and encore requests!

Thoughts? Have any "rock star" clients on your roster?

Image: Uploaded my Freedigital Photos admin

Phenomenal Blogger Series

REFLECTIONS OF ME
By Linda O'Connell
Published in Sasee Magazine May 2010

Through my teen years, I had no idea who that plain girl was looking back at me in my hand-held mirror. She had occasional blemishes, straight hair so thick a clamp couldn’t hold it, and about an ounce and a half of self-confidence.

Throughout my twenties, the gal in my oval dresser mirror wore sensible clothes, an artificial smile and a stern mommy look when necessary. My sense of self was completely defined by my roles as wife, mother and preschool teacher. I needed to be needed.

During my thirties, every time I glanced in my car’s rearview mirror I saw a woman merging into her own. I no longer wanted to be needed; I wanted to be wanted. I became more daring in my manner of dress. My self-esteem over-flowed like my hormones, and I was driven, on a quest of self-discovery.

At forty, my self-esteem was as on fire as the flaming birthday candles that lapped at my youth. I gazed into my full-length mirror. I tilted it this way and that and examined myself from all angles. I liked what I saw. My confidence was emerging. I knew for certain what I did not want, but I was unsure of what I really wanted. It was a time of introspection, of self-discovery. I travelled to the ocean in my fortieth year. On the rippled waters and pleated sand, I saw a reflection of the woman I had become. I learned how to say no, and yes, and to trust. I learned to ride the waves of everyday trials and tribulations and wait for the waters to calm.

At fifty, I hung a decorative mirror with etched oval frames in my living room and displayed photos of my grandchildren. As I passed that mirror, I saw my own features reflected in their faces, my joy and enthusiasm reflected in their souls. Every once in a while I glanced directly at myself, still a work in progress.

Sixty years of living, and as many brands of face cream purchased over the years, have made me realize that the wrinkles on my face are proof positive that I have lived a full life. I have come to love the skin I’m in. There’s a woman who knows me very well these days. When I greet her in my bathroom mirror, I see a twinkle in her heavy-lidded eyes. I wink at my reflection and remember how my life began at forty. I remarried. I became a grandma. During that decade I released my children’s hands, clung to their newborn babies’ hands and grasped my soul mate’s hand. I evolved. I took ownership of my feelings and vigorously declared my intentions.

As I reflect on my life, I realize that the phases I went through helped me to evolve into the woman I have become, the woman I can look in the eye, whom I respect and admire. I have learned a lot about myself and life in general. As much as I need and want my husband and family to be forever in my life, I know that letting go is as important as hanging on. We must let go of the negative self-speak, the pains of the past and eventually the loves of our lives. I resolve from this day forward to make every day count, for it is not the future or the past that matters, but the moment.

BIO
Linda O’Connell thrills at the sight of an ocean wave tumbling a seashell to shore. Evening is her favorite part of the day, and family is her number one priority. After thirty-four years as an early childhood teacher, Linda still considers teaching preschoolers her dream job. She also teaches an adult memoir writing class and feels blessed to be able to touch the future and reach back into the past with her two groups of students.

She is a widely-published, multi-genre writer who steps out in faith. At fifty, she decided to pursue her dreams of being published. Her essays, prose, articles and poetry have appeared in a variety of media. She writes a bi-weekly column for a local, small paper. Linda frequently reads her work aloud and speaks to groups. She has been interviewed several times on local television and also promotes her work in print.

Linda blogs at http://lindaoconnell.blogspot.com/

Image Zirconicusso

Are You Selling Yourself Short?

5 Ways to Increase Your Bottom Line Even When You're at Rock Bottom!

Back in the day when I had a crush on bad-boy rapper 50 Cent, I would devour every hip-hop magazine, celebrity news story, or blog that featured his interview, movie review, or the 4-1-1 on who he was dating. In his six-pack-displaying days, he was in my mind, “to die for.” Twice!
Okay, so it's not one of my proudest moments. But bear with me; there's a point here.

Anyhow, I remember coming across one such article where he made a statement that stayed with me and changed my perspective on how I do business, and the art of negotiations forever.
In doling out advice to future music moguls and entrepreneurs in general, he stated, “Never pay people what they're worth.; pay them what they'll accept.” (No wonder he was able to turn 50 Cents into millions!)

It was at that very moment I had a paradigm shift. I realized that the reason I was busted, disgusted and an expert on all things Ramen Noodles, was that as a freelancer, I wasn't being paid what I was worth.
I was too afraid to take a stand. I figured if I asked for too much, I would knock myself out of the running.
And why would I? It's common knowledge that there are hundreds of writers who will work for free, just for the benefit of a byline and “15 minutes of fame.” So I figured some money was better than none at all.

Then I did a reality check. When I really took a cold, hard look at my cold cash, in some cases I was making less by the hour than some factory workers in foreign countries. This despite having two degrees.

Something had to change. I decided to adopt Dr. Phil's philosophy---”we teach people how to treat us by the things we accept.” I discovered that not only were his sage words applicable to women who were in abusive relationships, they worked for freelancers who worked for freeloaders too!

You know the type: they'll pay you in “exposure”. Or they'll “reevaluate” your status based on how many clicks you get, or how much mileage they can get out of you.
As a result, you have to string together a dozen odds-and-ends jobs just to make ends meet. Which I had been doing, and simply had had enough.
And if you're in a similar situation, you should too.

Of course this is not to suggest that you should never write for free, or for low wages; some of these writing opportunities can provide great avenues for expanding your business, or are for worthy causes. Just be prudent in those you pursue.

With this in mind, here are five ways to increase your dignity and your bottom line in 2011.

1. Kick “tire-kickers” to the curb. Simply put, tire kickers are potential clients that will test the waters by asking a lot of free questions about your rates for projects, your creative ideas, and your strategies to help advance their business goals without any real desire to hire you. Some will even take your suggestions and implement them themselves to cut cost. Cut your losses short by learning to identify them early in the game, and limiting the time and frequency of (free) consultations and creative brainstorming on others' behalves. As they say, “why buy the cow if you can get the milk for free?” Funds for Writers creator, C. Hope Clark charges 50 bucks to chat with writers for a thirty minute consult.
2. Change your perspective. Even the Good Book tells us that, “so a man thinketh, so it is.” Stop buying into the belief that you must be a “starving artist.” Consider famous authors J.k. Rowling and Stephen King. Or celebrity bloggers like Darren Rowse, Brian Clark, and Daniel Scocco for examples. Positive thinking works. Positively!
3. Hone your craft to increase your cash. What are your creative weaknesses? Do you have a difficult time with conducting interviews? Is your fiction more like Ripley's Believe it or not? Do you struggle with subject/ verb agreement? Assess then act accordingly. There are many online classes offered for writers of all levels and genres to sharpen skills. One such site is www.coffeehouseforwriters.com/. Also consider joining a critique group in your local area.
4. Diversify---Don't devote all your hopes, dreams, or literary efforts to one area. The key to staying in the black, is creating multiple streams of income. For example, though I've had a successful career as a relationship columnist and blogger, my first foray into writing was as a poet. And I was indeed “po” until I expanded my creative horizons. You should too.
5. Recognize that time is money. Invest it well to yield optimal results. In other words, don't spend endless (unbillable) hours surfing the Net catching up on Brittney Spears and celebrity gossip, or exchanging photos on Facebook, or playing computer games. Budget your time like you would your money. Get your priorities in order. Ironically, the more money you make, the more freedom and leisure you'll gradually earn.


Follow these five tips (and get a clue) and you'll discover a writing career that's rich and rewarding on many levels.

Thoughts?

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Pen and Prosper Celebrates Women's History Month!

Phenomenal Female Blogger Amy Parmenter (reprinted from last year)

As Pen and Prosper invites women to share success stories, we are reminded of the ‘brilliance’ of Helen Reddy’s hit song ‘I Am Woman Hear Me Roar’. Great tune and perhaps an appropriate call to action in its day but I, for one, think Helen Reddy got it wrong. As a woman, I don’t want to roar. I want to purr.

Let’s look at the definitions.

A roar is loud, intimidating and often used as an expression of ‘distress or rage.’ While a roaring lioness may be captivating to watch from afar, would you dare approach?

A purr on the other hand is the ultimate expression of satisfaction. The dictionary defines a purring cat as ‘content or pleased’. As exciting as a roar might sound, wouldn’t you prefer to listen to the lioness purr?

A year ago I was roaring. Roaring about everything and everybody.

- Though I had landed a dream job, I was unhappy in my work. ROAR!!!
- In order to be with my husband, I had to move away from family and friends. ROAR!!
- I lost a sweet, kind brother who had a difficult life and a tragic death. ROAR!!

I could go on, but roaring is exhausting. It’s exhausting to listen to and it’s exhausting to do.

No doubt you could be ‘known’ for your roar, but being known for something and being respected for it are two different things. Think of the people you respect. Do they roar?

So, one year later I am purring. I am purring so loud that I can barely hear others roar. In fact, I think I noticed some roarers stop to hear me purr – which of course only made me purr more.

Do you roar or purr?

If you are roaring, then the greatest thing you can do for yourself is to figure out what makes you purr.

For me, it’s been writing. And, I have to tell you, I’m shocked. Really. I’ve never thought of myself as a writer. I’ve been a daughter, a sister, a friend, an entrepreneur, and an award-winning reporter – but I never realized I was a writer - until I started to blog.

One of the goals of blogging is to make money, and I’m sure I will. But, in my opinion, the greatest measure of success – blogging or otherwise - is self-satisfaction, because so few are able to achieve it.

We live in a day and age where ‘success’ may come sooner to those who roar. So, everybody starts roaring and nobody is heard. Bloggers, writers and other artists are often encouraged to ‘find your voice’ - but roaring makes you lose your voice.

“Oh yes I am wise but it's wisdom born of pain. Yes, I've paid the price but look how much I gained. I am strong. I am invincible….”

I am woman. Hear me purr.

BIO

Amy Parmenter is a blogger (ParmFarm.com) and a longtime radio and television reporter. In addition to her blog, Amy currently works for NBC in Connecticut and KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia. Not only has she enjoyed success in the media, Amy brings to her work a broad range of experience in other fields as well.

During her early years at KYW, Amy was offered an opportunity to host a CBS radio talk show - and did so for more than two years. But ultimately, Amy says, she returned to her first love, once again delivering the news rather than just talking about it.

Prior to joining the news business, Amy spent several years running her own business, a successful clothing manufacturing company that sold to virtually every upscale store in the country. She has also enjoyed success in venture capital, playing matchmaker between entrepreneurs and investors.

Amy attended Temple University where she graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in Sports Medicine. She now lives in the greater Hartford area with her husband and together they enjoy golfing, biking and all Connecticut has to offer!

See more of Amy Parmenter’s work at: www.parmfarm.com.

Pen and Prosper welcomes your comments on this post. Do you roar or purr? Is being a "strong" woman an asset or a liability for business or relational success today? What are your thoughts?