That’s exactly why we are creating the Online Transformational Leadership Course—to help individuals unlock their leadership potential, refine their skills, and make a lasting impact. Over the course of this article series, we’ll break down the core principles and skills of transformational leadership, giving you both the insight and the action steps to implement these concepts in your own life. This is based on our book of the same name, our Leadership Skills Inventory-Self assessment and our 160-hour university course on Transformational Leadership.

Let’s start with the foundation: Understanding the power of your influence and learning to observe its impact.

Principle 1: Every individual, in every situation, has the capacity to impact others positively or negatively.

What This Means

Whether you realize it or not, you are constantly influencing those around you. Your words, actions, and even your energy can uplift or discourage, inspire or deflate. The best leaders understand this and become intentional about the impact they create.

Think about a time when a leader—maybe a boss, coach, or mentor—had a major impact on you. Did they inspire confidence? Encourage growth? Or did they leave you feeling undervalued and overlooked? That’s the power of influence in action.

Great leadership starts with awareness—recognizing that everything you do has an effect on others. The question is: Are you making a positive or negative impact?

How to Implement

1. Become Self-Aware: Pay attention to how your words and actions affect those around you. Do people leave conversations with you feeling empowered or drained?
2. Pause Before You React: Before responding to a challenging situation, ask yourself, “How will my response impact this person?” Choose words and actions that build people up.
3. Lead by Example: The easiest way to influence others positively is to be the kind of person you want others to become– respectful, accountable, and driven.
4. Check Your Energy: People pick up on your attitude, tone, and presence. Make sure you’re bringing positivity and encouragement, not negativity and frustration.

Principle 2: Observing the impact of our actions helps us understand the effects of positive or negative leadership.

What This Means

Leadership isn’t just about what you do—it’s also about understanding how your actions are received. The best leaders are constantly assessing their impact, adjusting their approach, and learning from every interaction.

The problem? Most people don’t take the time to reflect. They assume their leadership is effective, but they never actually measure whether their actions are helping or hurting. Transformational leaders pay attention, seek feedback, and course-correct when necessary.

How to Implement

1. Observe Reactions: Pay attention to body language, tone, and engagement levels when you speak. Are people responsive, or do they shut down?
2. Ask for Feedback: Seek honest input from colleagues, mentors, or team members. Ask, “What’s on thing I could do to be a better leader?”
3. Reflect Regularly:At the end of each day, take five minutes to review your interactions. Did you uplift or discourage? Did you bring clarity or confusion?
4. Adjust Your Approach: If something isn’t working, change it. Great leaders aren’t afraid to evolve.

Final Thoughts: Leadership is a Choice

Transformational leadership starts with awareness—awareness of your impact and awareness of how your actions affect others. The best leaders don’t lead by accident—they lead with intention.

Over the next articles, we’ll continue breaking down key leadership principles, giving you the tools and mindset shifts needed to become a leader who drives real, lasting change.

Are you ready to step into your full leadership potential? Stay with us, and let’s build something great together.

Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!

The post Transformational Leadership: The First Steps to Leading with Impact first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

As we enter the year 2025, it’s clear that we are facing a global leadership crisis. The lack of effective, principled leadership is wreaking havoc on businesses, governments, and society as a whole. From low morale and job dissatisfaction to high turnover and poor performance, the consequences of inadequate leadership are severe. The global landscape is filled with organizations struggling to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world, and individuals are losing trust in the very leaders who are supposed to guide them toward a better future.

The cost of poor leadership is not just a matter of productivity or profits—it is a matter of survival. Without strong leadership, the potential for innovation stagnates, employee engagement drops, and organizations lose their competitive edge. In the face of rapid technological advancements, economic instability, and increasing social challenges, leadership is the linchpin that determines whether an organization—and even a nation—thrives or falters.

The Critical Need for Leadership Development

The question we must ask ourselves is simple, yet profound: What happens if we don’t address this leadership crisis? The consequences are dire. Without a concerted effort to develop strong, ethical, and capable leaders, we are headed toward a future defined by continued stagnation, polarization, and disarray.

The absence of good leadership is already taking its toll on businesses, governments, and communities. Poor decision-making, lack of accountability, and the inability to adapt to change are the direct results of ineffective leadership. These shortcomings are not only costing organizations billions of dollars every year—they are also eroding the very fabric of trust and cooperation that society depends on. If we do not act now to develop leadership at all levels, the implications will be far-reaching and long-lasting.

How Our Online Course Will Address These Leadership Challenges

That’s where our new Transformational Leadership Online Course comes in. In the coming weeks we will write a series of articles where we will dive deep into the principles and skills that will equip you to lead with integrity, skill, and vision. This soon to be released online course is designed to not only address the leadership gaps we see today but also to prepare you to take on the challenges of the future with confidence and effectiveness.

Leadership is not something that’s reserved for a select few—it’s a skill set that anyone can develop. Whether you’re already in a leadership role or striving to lead yourself and others with greater impact, this course will provide the tools, strategies, and insights you need to succeed. We will cover the 12 essential principles and 60 skills required for transformational leadership, giving you a comprehensive framework to grow as a leader.

But what does transformational leadership really mean in today’s world? It means leading with purpose, clarity, and authenticity. It means inspiring others through integrity, guiding teams through uncertainty, and making decisions that create long-term value for all stakeholders. It’s about adapting to change with resilience, fostering innovation, and empowering others to take ownership of their success.

The Future of Leadership: Why It Matters

If we fail to develop leadership over the next few years, the consequences will be profound. Poor leadership will continue to undermine organizational success, erode employee trust, and deepen the divide between those in power and the people they are meant to serve. In business, the lack of strong leadership leads to stagnation, while in politics, it fosters instability and division. In society at large, weak leadership allows crises to spiral out of control.

Conversely, if we prioritize leadership development now, we can chart a path toward a brighter future—one in which leaders not only excel in their roles but also create opportunities for others to lead. Strong leadership will drive economic recovery, foster social cohesion, and lay the foundation for a more just and innovative world.

What You Will Learn

Our course is built around the fundamental idea that leadership is a skill that can—and must—be developed. While we won’t go into the specific 12 principles here, these principles will serve as the foundation for your leadership journey. Over the course of this program, you will gain insights into the skills and mindsets that make transformational leaders stand out. You’ll learn how to:

• Lead with integrity and vision, creating an environment where trust and accountability thrive.
• Make effective decisions that benefit not just the bottom line, but the people you lead.
• Communicate in a way that inspires, motivates, and empowers others to take action.
• Build strong, collaborative teams that can adapt to change and drive innovation.
• Resolve conflicts with grace and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
• Navigate uncertainty with confidence and inspire resilience in your team.

In the coming weeks, we’ll explore each of these areas in depth, providing you with the knowledge and practical tools you need to become a transformational leader.

The Time to Act is Now

The future of leadership is in your hands. If we don’t act now to develop the leaders of tomorrow, we risk perpetuating the cycle of poor leadership that has brought us to this point. But if we invest in leadership development today, we can create a world where leaders are not just managers—they are catalysts for positive change. The choice is ours.

In our Transformational Leadership Online Course, we’re committed to helping you become the kind of leader the world so desperately needs. Join us on this journey, and let’s shape the future of leadership.

Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!

The post Transformational Leadership: Addressing the Leadership Crisis and Shaping the Future first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

But this article isn’t just for corporate leaders—it’s for everyone. Leadership touches every corner of our lives, from the family unit to our social spheres. It’s crucial in shaping the outcomes we desire.

Let’s look at a few examples from past reality television—these shows may seem filled with drama, but they often serve as a mirror to our society’s leadership (or lack thereof). Shows like Supernanny, Nanny 911, and Honey, You’re Killing the Kids all highlight one common thread: the absence of strong leadership within families. When parents neglect to take responsibility for their children’s well-being, it often requires professional intervention to restore order.

Take, for example, a heartbreaking case from the UK: A mother nearly lost custody of her 10-year-old son due to his severe obesity. His life was at risk, and it all stemmed from a lack of leadership in his household. That failure to lead had grave consequences.

Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

Here’s an important point: Intentions, no matter how noble, do not automatically make you a great leader. Leadership is about unwavering commitment to principles and vision, even when the road ahead is fraught with challenges and criticism.

Consider the case of a school board in Quebec, Canada, that implemented a bold move to ban cell phones and electronic devices during school hours. These devices were distractions, tools for cheating, and breeding grounds for cyberbullying. The decision was met with backlash from students and parents, but it was an example of effective leadership. The board took a firm stand on principle, knowing it was in the best interest of the students, even though the consequences weren’t popular.

Having served on a school board myself, I’ve witnessed firsthand how weak leadership can damage families. In one situation, custody of two troubled children was transferred to their grandparents. The result? The children went from being disruptive students to top performers. The difference? The leadership example their grandparents set—strong, loving, and unyielding.

Leadership Is About Vision, Not Ego

Years ago, I was called in to mediate a conflict between a credit union board and its long-standing general manager. The issue was clear: The board lacked leadership. They avoided difficult decisions and sought to be liked rather than respected. This failure to lead held the organization back and left the general manager frustrated.

In a one-day workshop using our Personal Style Indicator and Credibility Models, we helped the board see their shortcomings and shift their leadership approach. Leadership isn’t about pleasing others; it’s about fulfilling the vision, no matter the challenges. As Jim Collins wisely said, “Great leadership, in business or personal life, is unwavering in its commitment to the goal, not the ego of the leaders.”

Leaders Aren’t Afraid of Facing Hard Truths

Leadership means facing the hard truths, especially when they’re inconvenient or uncomfortable. For example, research shows that more than half of North American children are obese, yet fewer than 20% of their parents recognize the severity of the problem. Parents who avoid facing this reality, through lack of leadership, are compromising their children’s health and future.

Just like the credit union board, leaders must confront reality. When they fail to do so, they risk letting their organizations—or in the case of parents, their children—drift into harm.

The True Test of Leadership

True leadership isn’t about avoiding criticism or steering clear of difficult conversations. It’s about sticking to your principles and vision, even when those around you don’t agree. Since I purchased my company, Consulting Resource Group (CRG), I’ve faced opposition to my vision and direction countless times. Though I listen to the counsel of trusted advisors, ultimately, it’s my values and vision that guide the decisions I make for the company. I’ve learned that sometimes, you must hold steady in your course, regardless of dissenting voices.

If you’ve never received any negative feedback about your leadership—whether as a parent, business owner, or community leader—maybe it’s time to question whether you’re truly leading or just going along with the flow. Leadership often requires stepping into uncharted waters, taking risks, and facing criticism head-on. If you haven’t experienced these things, it could be a sign that you’re not yet fully committed to your vision.

Leadership is a Journey

Leadership isn’t easy. It’s a journey that often requires sacrifice, persistence, and a willingness to face uncomfortable truths. Whether in business or in your personal life, effective leadership requires making decisions based on principles and vision, not on popularity or comfort.

Take a moment to reflect: Are you truly leading in your own life? Are you willing to step up and make the tough decisions, even when they aren’t popular? If not, it’s time to make the changes necessary to become the leader you were meant to be. Leadership is about vision, purpose, and the courage to move forward, no matter the obstacles.

Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!

The post Leadership – Not For The Faint Of Heart first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

Now before individuals get defensive about this article, we are as a small company who has – had nine different cultures or backgrounds represented at the same time on our team. We do not endorse prejudice in anyway. I also sit on a global HR advisor group to assist HR leaders with the trends and impact that their policies are having on their organizations and cultures. The challenge for many HR Leaders is they have lost site of their primary responsibilities, which is to create a safe supportive environment, implementing systems which helps the organization succeed, and rewards individuals based on character and outcomes. Many have advocated these responsibilities to focus solely on DEI.

The strengths of MEI:

Merit 
At the heart of MEI is merit—a principle that champions individuals based on their abilities, skills, and achievements. Meritocracy ensures that the most competent and qualified people rise to the top, driving excellence and innovation. It creates a clear, objective measure of success, where effort and talent are rewarded.

Excellence
Excellence pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. It’s about striving for the highest standards in every endeavor. Emphasizing excellence means fostering a culture of continuous improvement, where individuals and organizations are motivated to surpass previous achievements and deliver outstanding results.

Intelligence
Intelligence, in this context, refers to the capacity for critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making. When intelligence is prioritized, decisions are based on sound reasoning and evidence, leading to better outcomes and more effective solutions.

MEI creates a robust framework that values hard work, skill, and intellectual capability. It encourages a culture where success is earned through merit, and standards are continually raised. This approach not only drives individual growth but also propels organizations and societies towards meaningful progress. In fact, MEI promote equality based on actual performance not some DEI mandate.

The challenges of DEI:

Diversity
On the surface, diversity seems like a noble goal—embracing a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. However, in practice, it leads to superficial changes rather than genuine improvement. When diversity initiatives prioritize representation over capability, they risk creating environments where positions are filled based on demographic factors rather than qualifications. This approach undermines the value of merit and excellence.

Equity
Equity aims to level the playing field by addressing perceived imbalances. While the intention is to rectify apparent injustices, the implementation can be problematic. By focusing on equal outcomes rather than equal opportunities, equity initiatives create new forms of bias. Instead of rewarding individual merit, they enforce policies that prioritize group characteristics over personal achievement, stifling talent and innovation.

Inclusion
Inclusion is about ensuring everyone feels valued and has a seat at the table. However, the push for inclusion can leads to tokenism or the dilution of standards. When organizations focus excessively on making everyone feel included, they inadvertently compromise on the quality of contributions. Inclusion efforts that prioritize comfort over challenge hinder critical discourse and diminish the drive for excellence.

The destructive impact of DEI:

Dilution of standards
Prioritizing demographic characteristics over actual competence can dilute standards and undermine the quality of work. When the focus shifts from merit to mere representation, the overall effectiveness and excellence of teams and organizations suffer.

Promotion of mediocrity
DEI initiatives that emphasize equity and inclusion without a strong merit-based foundation risk promoting mediocrity. By prioritizing equal outcomes over individual capability, organizations may end up rewarding less qualified individuals, which hinder progress and innovation.

Erosion of meritocracy
DEI’s emphasis on demographic factors can erode the principles of meritocracy. When decisions are influenced more by identity politics than by performance and ability, it leads to resentment, division, and a lack of motivation among those who feel their efforts are overshadowed by less relevant factors.

Increased division
Paradoxically, DEI efforts actually exacerbate divisions rather than healing them. When policies are seen as favoring certain groups over others, it creates a sense of unfairness and division among employees or members of society. The focus on identity overshadows the need for unity and collective progress.

Example
I was personally contracted to conduct consulting, training and coaching for an international organization in a foreign country. When on site my internal company contact showed me someone in their office playing video games on their computer. This was a supervisory role and apparently all he did was play video games all day-everyday! He did not have the skills or intelligence for the position, nor the desire to work or fulfill the responsibilities of this role. However, because of DEI mandates in this organization, there was nothing that could be done. “He was part of the quota that was required.”

What do you think this did to the entire culture of the company? Do you know who was leaving the organization “A” players – meaning individuals who could easily get employment elsewhere based on MEI. This left the organization with the lowest performing and least capable individuals.

As an expert in human performance and potential, there is and will be a long-term negative impact mentally and emotionally on the DEI hire! With video games filling his time – this is a person who has no purpose, drive, passion and little life fulfillment. As a result, he will have a strong propensity for depression and mental health issues. What a waste of a human life and his potential to contribute to society and make a difference.

Why MEI provides a better alternative
MEI’s emphasis on merit, excellence, and intelligence fosters a culture where everyone is judged by their abilities and achievements. It creates an environment where hard work and talent are recognized and rewarded, leading to higher standards and better outcomes. Unlike DEI, which promotes mediocrity and division, MEI encourages a focus on genuine skill and capability.

In a world where success and progress are driven by the best and brightest, MEI stands out as a superior model. It ensures that individuals and organizations are motivated to excel based on their merits, pushing for continuous improvement and innovation. By valuing intelligence and excellence, MEI paves the way for true advancement and success, without the pitfalls associated with DEI.

While DEI initiatives have been introduced with the intention of creating fairer and more inclusive environments, they usually fall short of their goals and have a detrimental effect on performance and morale. MEI, on the other hand, offers a superior approach by focusing on merit, excellence, and intelligence, ensuring that individuals are recognized for their true capabilities and contributions. By embracing MEI, we can build a culture that truly rewards achievement and drives meaningful purpose and progress both individually and organizationally.

Author’s note
We believe every person on the planet has a calling, purpose, or assignment to fulfill. The challenge is most and we mean most (over 80%) have no clue what their purpose or calling might be. To address this gap, we have created an online course experience – based on our book The Quest for Purpose a self-discover process to find it and live it! To learn more just reach out or go to our site to register – Our Purpose is to help Others Live Their Purpose! www.crgleader.com

Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!

The post Why MEI Is Superior To DEI A Case For Merit, Excellence And Intelligence first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

Think about it: How often do you find yourself questioning whether you deserve the good things life has to offer? It’s a common struggle, but one that profoundly impacts our ability to thrive.

At CRG, we emphasize the importance of understanding and cultivating self-worth. It’s not about arrogance or superiority over others; rather, it’s about recognizing your inherent value and believing in your ability to achieve happiness and fulfillment.

Dr. Nathaniel Branden eloquently described self-worth as comprising two key components: self-efficacy—confidence in our capabilities to make decisions and navigate life—and self-respect—the belief that we deserve happiness and success.
High self-worth isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a cornerstone of mental health and life satisfaction. Research consistently shows that individuals with high self-worth are more resilient, creative, and successful in various aspects of life. They’re better equipped to handle challenges, make independent choices, and pursue their aspirations.

Conversely, low self-worth can be debilitating. It undermines confidence, limits decision-making abilities, and hampers personal growth. It’s like carrying a weight that stifles potential and diminishes joy.

Fortunately, self-worth is not fixed. It can be nurtured and strengthened through self-awareness and intentional growth. Our Self-Worth Inventory helps individuals identify areas where they can boost their self-esteem, fostering a healthier outlook on themselves and their capabilities. Plus, we have our brand new online course Unlock Your Confidence based on the SWI. Please go to the landing page to learn more and invest in yourself.

From childhood through adulthood, self-worth is profoundly influenced by our environments—the support we receive from family, the encouragement in educational settings, and the opportunities in our workplaces. Positive reinforcement and acceptance play crucial roles in shaping a strong sense of self-worth.

For parents and educators, nurturing high self-worth in children is paramount. It sets the foundation for resilience, healthy relationships, and academic success. Schools that prioritize self-worth see not only improved academic outcomes but also happier, more confident students.

To embark on your journey toward greater self-worth, start by acknowledging your strengths and embracing your uniqueness. Discovering your gifts and talents through tools like our Personal Style Indicator and Values Preference Indicator can be transformative.

Remember, building self-worth is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, self-reflection, and sometimes seeking support.

As you reflect on your own self-worth, consider how enhancing it can unlock new opportunities and enrich your life. You deserve to live confidently, embracing success and happiness without hesitation.

Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!

The post Do You Feel Worthy Of Success? first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

Where does that concept apply?
Everywhere!
It can pertain to action items, behaviors, and/or character traits.

Are these statements familiar?

• I’m too old to start.
• I’m too young to.
• I’ve been smoking so long, I can’t quit now.
• I just have to accept my poor health and wellness levels.
• I have not talked to my brother for 20 years. Why would I attempt to now?
• Do you know it would take me four years to finish my degree?
• I’ve been a laborer for 30 years. It’s too late for me to learn new technology.
  And so on.

Here’s an interesting bit of research conducted with individuals who were retired and over 70 years of age. They were asked this question: If they could live their lives all over again, what would they do differently, if anything? In the end, these were the most common answers:

1. They would take more time off and take more time for themselves.
2. They would take more risks.
3. They would commit to more projects that would last beyond their lifetime.

The answers are simple yet hold a powerful message. Those wise retirees really felt that committing to being more engaged in their lives would lead to more impact and personal fulfillment. Unless we are on our deathbed, there is little reason for the majority of us to say it’s too late. Oddly enough, our society seems to believe that if something is not done by a certain time in our lives, it’s too late. Nonsense! If you truly have an interest, passion, purpose, or desire to achieve or to change, it’s never too late.

Years ago, I had a personal tour of a special healthcare facility in Vancouver called Canuck Place, which provides holistic care to families with terminally ill children. It is one of only a handful of such facilities in all of North America. When I left, I was not only humbled, I was moved to new levels of compassion. What surprised me most is that these children are provided with the most active and engaging programs relative to their conditions, including pursuing their required school curricula. We were told a story about a nine-year-old child who was actively involved in her learning until the day before she died. Wow!

If you still support the argument that it is too late to do or be something, do us all a favor and immediately get rid of that excuse!

Here are other inspiring stories

• My mother-in-law was a widow for 7 years. At age 76, she remarried. She and her groom were like any newlyweds madly in love for 13 years until he also passed away.
• A 55-year-old male in Vancouver almost died of a heart attack due to his obesity. He changed his lifestyle, lost 100 pounds, and competed in an extreme sports trek competition where he pushed himself for 14 days in the New Zealand wild.
• Moses was 80 before his first real job.
• When Abraham Lincoln finally won the Presidency of the United States, he failed to win that office on many other occasions over several decades.
• When J.K. Rowling finally started writing, she was unemployed and around the age of 40. She, of course, is the author of the Harry Potter books.

What have you not done because you think it is too late? What is that costing you in terms of purpose, passion, and fulfillment?

What achievements have you denied yourself and others because of your “It’s Too Late” position?

Remember that retired individuals wish they had taken more risks? Well, now is your time!

I want to encourage you that it’s not too late to change or quit something, either.

• This is the time to stop smoking.
• Now you can clear the air with someone in terms of a relationship.
• Seriously consider embracing the lifestyle change you have been thinking about for so long!

Update your goals and desires.
Example: When I was young, I wanted to own a Ferrari, but that is no longer on my Dream List. I also wanted to own and operate one of the largest agricultural operations in the country; that idea does not appeal to me today.

Our desires evolve and change. That’s fine. All I’m asking is that you create a Dream List that is current, real & appealing, and authentic to you and your calling. See yourself being successful with the items on it. Visualize the trip you have not taken, that course you wanted to pass, the health level you always have sought, or the relationship you’ve always envisioned.

To assist you on your journey away from “It’s Too Late,” I am recommending some transformational resources. Found here.

1. To be clear about your values, complete our e-course What Do You Really Value? This is your own opinion about your values.
2. To help you with your health intentions, complete our e-course, Dying to Live! Which includes the Stress Indicator and Health Planner assessment.
3. To be clear about your direction in life, register and engage in our e-course, The Quest For Purpose! Which will help you discover your purpose and directions.

The greatest gift you can give to yourself and others is to embrace the possibilities and fulfill your calling. When you are on purpose with the passion and desire that follow, there will be no stopping you!

It’s never too late action steps

1. Unless you are on your deathbed (even then, much can be done), It’s Never Too Late!
2. What has your “It’s Too Late” excuse cost you in terms of personal and professional fulfillment?
3. Let go of any guilt or regret about your “It’s Too Late” list. Just map out a new plan to get going.
4. Document a new Dream List. Why are those items on your list?
5. Make sure your new Dream List includes only items that are relevant and authentic today.
6. Select one item on your new Dream List that you can immediately jump-start. Imagine for a moment that you have already achieved that item. How does that make you feel? Great, right? NOW is the time to get started!
7. Your “It’s Too Late” thinking can be released when you feel you are on more solid ground. That can be achieved by engaging the following CRG e-courses: What Do You Really Value?, The Quest For Purpose, and Dying to Live!
8. Who else can you encourage to let go of his or her “It’s Too Late” belief system?
9. Enjoy the journey. Now you have little or nothing on your “It’s Too Late” list! Your Dream List is your mission!

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

The post It’s Never Too Late first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

Mention selling or sales to the majority of individuals, and death seems a more attractive option. The ability to sell—if not the most important skill a person needs to succeed—is certainly in the top three.

Now, before half the readers get defensive, let me explain.

Sales is the activity that breathes life into any economy, business, or venture. Take away sales, and you have nothing. Yet, the fear and loathing around selling result in more personal and business failures than any other single factor.

After one event where I presented, one of the participants wrote me a scathing email about the fact that I promoted (sold) products during the program. She said it was unethical to sell, promote, or market anything at an event.

Wow! Obviously, selling had hit an emotional chord with her. But get this—the program I was conducting was on How to Succeed in Marketing and Selling Yourself and Your Business. Oops! Maybe she thought she was attending another program.

It does not matter what position, role, or level of responsibility you have; you are involved in selling—whether or not you think you are. Every day you are selling, and people are selling to you.

• The doctor sells you on his/her recommended treatment.
• You sell yourself in a job interview.
• You sell your boss when you ask for a promotion or raise.
• You are selling when you ask someone on a date or to marry you.
• Your kids are always selling you on the latest, greatest toy.
• The politician sells you their platform to get your vote.
• Your significant other sells to you when he or she wants to go on holiday.

And on it goes.

Whether you like it or not, life is all about selling.

In reality, the word “sales” can be replaced with the word “influence”. When Brendon Bouchard did his research for his Habits book on one of the top six habits of high performers, one of the six was the ability to “Influence”.

And he’s right. There’s no replacement or alternative to the skill of selling (influencing), unless, of course, it’s not important to you to achieve your goals, dreams, or aspirations.

There’s simply not enough space in this short blog to impart sales skills training. I will, however, outline where you need to start.

First, if you have an aversion to sales, selling, influencing, and the sales professionals, you need to find a way to liberate that belief system.

Unfortunately, many individuals associate “sales” with some sleazy, high-pressure salesman they have encountered. After my own successful sales career and as a sales trainer to the auto industry for over a decade, I understand that some sales professions have poor reputations.

Regrettably, some sales trainers still teach 101 ways to close the sale and how to deal with objections. They are way out of touch with what sales is really all about! They are repeating crusty, outdated junk from the 20th century.

Please don’t buy into that mindset. Today’s sales professionals are a whole new breed. Our research shows that the top sales reps are excellent listeners—not smooth talkers.

Selling does not determine your character, values, or ethics. It is simply a skill set blended with confidence and emotions. It is critical to understand that as you go forward. Sales skills and the character and ethics of the individual who deploys them are two separate entities.

True sales success is always about building a relationship between or among parties where the interaction results in mutual benefits.

If, by chance, you are one of the many who loathe everything about selling, your journey will include overcoming that negative mindset. Until you upgrade your attitude, your success as an individual will be limited. If you are an entrepreneur, that state of mind will be disastrous for you!

As a past Number One Sales Performer and Sales Trainer we are excited to mention an amazing resource our eCourse, Why Don’t You Sell The Way That I Buy?™, which comes with the online assessment the Sales Style Indicator and an 80-page workbook.

In the end, the skill of selling is critical to your success. Don’t let anyone say it isn’t—especially you!

Action Steps

If You Can’t Sell (Influence Others), You Can’t Succeed

1. You must acknowledge the fact that selling is one of the most important skills you can acquire and deploy to be successful in any and all parts of your life.
2. What is your attitude toward sales, sales promotion, and sales professionals?
3. Do you love selling? If not, why not? Document all your concerns in writing.
4. What negative issues (if any) do you need to overcome to make sales a priority and acceptable to you?
5. Forget what others think or say about sales. If they have a negative opinion about sales, they probably are not successful, especially in business.
6. Avoid any sales training or advice that suggests you must be dishonest to succeed. The art of selling does not mean selling your soul and conducting yourself in an unethical manner. In fact, it is just the opposite.
7. To be successful in any sales endeavor, you must love what you do and be passionate about what you are promoting.
8. To build your sales skills and confidence and/or your sales team, consider our eCourse, Why Don’t You Sell The Way That I Buy?™ At minimum, complete the Sales Style Indicator to understand your selling style.
9. To grow, link yourself with successful individuals who have high selling skills and who share your values and ethics.
10. Make a commitment to enhance and improve your selling/influencing skills, no matter your current level of skill or responsibility.
11. In addition, to our online course we are available to support you and your organization in the sales, sales management or processes, virtually or in-person as a trainer, coach, mentor or consultant. Please reach out with your questions and we can proceed from there.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

The post If You Can’t Sell, You Can’t Succeed first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

— Aldous Huxley

Look around you. Does it feel like the fun has been drained out of life? Sometimes we take ourselves so seriously that we forget to enjoy the ride.

Fun is about finding joy and amusement in everyday moments. So, let’s dive into this article with fun in mind.

“People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.”

— Andrew Carnegie

Sure, there are serious moments when laughter isn’t appropriate, but if fun never finds its way into your day, you might notice fewer smiles and fewer friends than you deserve.

“In high school, I was the class comedian as opposed to the class clown. The difference is, the class clown is the guy who drops his pants at the football game; the class comedian is the guy who talked him into it.”

— Billy Crystal

If I called your friends and colleagues right now, what would they say about your Fun Factor? Are you enjoying life, or are you stuck in a perpetual sour-prune juice face?

We should inject fun into all areas of our life — work, home, relationships, hobbies. Where could you use more fun?

Take our office, for example. At CRG, amidst deadlines and high stakes, we’ve mastered the art of not taking ourselves too seriously. A few years back, my team orchestrated a prank where they faked a server data loss. It scared me witless for a few minutes, but the laughter that followed was priceless — and yes, I deducted their planning time from their pay!

“The IQ and the life expectancy of the average American recently passed each other going in opposite directions.”

— George Carlin

There’s scientific proof that humor and fun improve your health. Norman Cousins, in his book *The Anatomy of an Illness*, healed himself by watching Three Stooges movies in the hospital. Laughing releases endorphins that boost your immune system. Ever laughed so hard it hurt? That’s the magic of fun.

“My doctor gave me six months to live, but when I couldn’t pay the bill, he gave me six months more.”

— Walter Matthau

I urge you to infuse fun and enjoyment into your life. Amidst my busy schedule building CRG, I realized I needed more fun with my family. What about you?

Think back to the Pink Panther movies with Inspector Clouseau. He hired a martial arts expert to surprise him without warning. Maybe you can spice things up in your life too.

You don’t have to do what I’ve suggested — just get with the program of enjoying yourself and having fun.

Take it from Montreal’s Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, born over four decades ago against all odds. Laughter is universal.

Here are 10 Steps to Having Fun and Enjoying Life:

1. Are you fun to be around? Ask your closest friends.
2. Are you having fun at work, home, and in your leisure? If not, what needs to change?
3. Lighten up! Life’s too short to be serious all the time.
4. Take life seriously, but not yourself.
5. This week, do something that makes you laugh — watch a funny movie, visit a comedy club, or invite friends who crack you up.
6. Schedule fun activities. No guilt trips allowed.
7. Share your Fun Factor. Become a Fun Master for others.
8. If you can’t have fun or aren’t enjoyable to be with, limit your interaction with others.
9. Did Question 8 ruffle your feathers? If so, you failed the fun test. Start over and lighten up.
10. If you’re reading this, you passed the test. Congrats! Now, are you having fun yet?

To have fun, you need to be living On Purpose. Consider our eCourse, The Quest For Purpose, to level up.

“My doctor recently told me jogging could add years to my life. I think he was right. I feel 10 years older already.”

— Milton Berle

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

The post Hey: Are You Having Fun — Yet? first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.

Do you desire more abundance in your life? If your answer is yes, keep reading. If not, continue anyway, as understanding abundance can empower you to help others find it too. What comes to mind when you think of abundance? Is it exhilarating and inspiring, or does it seem unattainable and unrealistic? Many people dismiss abundance because it’s often wrongly equated solely with wealth.

Abundance encompasses every facet of life—health, friendships, relationships, achievements, emotional and spiritual well-being, and more. Wealth is just one aspect of abundance; it’s fundamentally about your mindset rather than your circumstances. To truly embrace abundance, you must first believe it’s real and achievable. Those with an “abundance mindset” do not harbor thoughts like:

• “Things never work out for me.”
• “I never have enough money.”
• “I can’t find good friends.”
• “There are no decent people to date.”

Countless individuals limit themselves by believing resources and opportunities are scarce. Abundance operates independently of your beliefs; it manifests based on whether your thoughts and goals are positive or limiting. Some even view embracing abundance as immoral, burdened by guilt and justifying their own hardships as virtuous suffering. But does being broke or miserable truly help anyone, especially the less fortunate globally?

From a biblical perspective, abundance is supported: “…I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10, ESV). Did you know that lacking an abundance mindset in one area of your life spills over into others? For instance, a successful businessman recently pointed out how personal relationship struggles can hinder financial success. He emphasized that personal and financial disciplines are inseparable—a principle he’s seen hold true over his three-decade career in financial planning.

Are you open to believing in unlimited resources and opportunities for yourself? Abundance is available to everyone reading this. My hope is that you consider how you might be limiting your own potential. Abundance thinking focuses on possibilities rather than limitations. Conversely, scarcity thinking—its opposite—inevitably leads to unfulfillment.

Studies confirm that living with a scarcity mindset diminishes our cognitive abilities and overall capacity to manage life effectively. So, what can you do about it?

First, let go of scarcity thinking. Stop dwelling on undesirable conditions in your relationships, health, or career. Complaining only attracts more of the same negativity into your life.

Shift gradually towards an abundance mindset across all aspects of your life. Focus on what you desire, acknowledging that your current circumstances reflect what you’ve attracted to yourself. Consider reframing your thoughts: From “I can never find the right partner” to “Every day, I am becoming the person who attracts my ideal partner.”

Understand that abundance doesn’t limit others; it’s about attracting what is good and right. It stems from positive energy, not negativity or harm to others.

To support your journey towards abundance, consider CRG’s assessments:

1. Stress Indicator and Health Planner: Assess and plan for better overall wellness.

2. Values Preference Indicator: Identify core values to align your life with true abundance.

3. Self-Worth Inventory: Evaluate your sense of self-worth, a critical aspect of embracing abundance.

Think of abundance like love for children—having more doesn’t diminish what’s already there. Embrace abundance in your life, knowing you deserve it and can positively impact others through it. For more insights on living with purpose and attracting abundance, delve into my latest book, The Quest For Purpose.

Until next time, Keep Living On Purpose!

The post How to Shift to a Spirit of Abundance first appeared on CRG - Consulting Resource Group.