CRG – Consulting Resource Group

The Power of Lifelong Learning

Adrien Gilmore — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:55:50 +0000

The Power of Lifelong Learning

In the ever-changing landscape of our world, the key to unlocking our true potential and becoming the person we aspire to be lies in two fundamental elements: our level of knowledge and our ability to apply that knowledge effectively. Over the past century, life has undergone tremendous transformations, and the rate of change is projected to accelerate even further. Astonishingly, research indicates that knowledge is now doubling every 30 days, which highlights the abundance of information available to us.

The Challenge of Continuous Learning:

In light of the vast amount of information being generated, it is impractical and overwhelming for any individual to keep up with it all. Attempting to absorb every piece of new information would be akin to an explosion waiting to happen. However, the alternative of denying the need for continuous learning is equally perilous. Many of the jobs that today’s children will undertake during their lifetimes have not yet been invented, illustrating the rapid pace of change. This reality applies not only to younger generations but also to many of us reading this article.

The Commitment to Lifelong Learning:

So, what can we do in the face of this challenge? The answer lies in making a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning. Learning should be a continuous process that extends until the very day we depart from this planet. Numerous studies have shown that individuals who retire without a sense of purpose often experience a decline in their overall well-being and may face a shortened lifespan. Without the motivation to keep growing, staying sharp, and remaining inspired, they lose their drive to thrive in life. Therefore, embracing lifelong learning becomes not only beneficial but necessary for a fulfilling and purposeful existence.

Strategic Learning and Personal Development:

To fully harness the power of lifelong learning, it is essential to approach it strategically. Learning for learning’s sake is no longer sufficient. Instead, we must be deliberate and intentional with our time and learning endeavors. It is crucial to identify the knowledge areas that are most relevant and critical to our future success and purpose. To achieve this, we can follow a few action steps:

Make a personal commitment to lifelong learning: Imagine going to a doctor who hasn’t upgraded their knowledge in the past ten years. Just as we expect professionals to continually enhance their skills, we must prioritize our own ongoing education.
Strategic allocation of time and learning: Rather than passively absorbing information, we must carefully select and prioritize our learning endeavors. Reflect on the knowledge areas that align with your goals and determine the ones that deserve your focused attention.
Identify knowledge areas: Create four columns on a page, titled “Must Learn,” “Should Learn,” “Would Like to Learn,” and “Required Knowledge Accessed from an Expert.” Fill in these columns accordingly, establishing a clear roadmap for your learning journey. Reach out to experts in fields where their insights are necessary to achieve your objectives. Like Henry Ford, who accessed others’ knowledge to achieve his purpose, we too should identify and source a team of experts.
Understanding Your Learning Style:
To sustain your interest and accelerate your learning, it is crucial to recognize your preferred learning style. Each of us has unique preferences when it comes to learning. Allow me to share my personal experience to illustrate this point. During high school, I struggled immensely within the structured and controlled learning environment, almost failing. However, I subsequently earned my Doctorate Degree with a 4.0 GPA. I realized that I am an independent learner who thrives when setting my own pace. I lack patience for methodical, linear, and tightly structured processes and, therefore, seek out non-traditional learning opportunities. Experiential learning is highly effective for me. I prefer self-paced learning or engaging with experts who can immediately demonstrate the application of knowledge, rather than merely teaching theoretical concepts. It is imperative to identify your own learning style and acquire knowledge using the methods that serve you best.
Documenting Your Learning Plan:
Once you have identified what you want to learn, from whom you should be learning, and your preferred learning style, it is time to outline your development plan. Take the following steps:

Prioritize your learning: Create a list outlining the knowledge areas, experts, and preferred learning styles that align with your goals.
Establish a timeline: Set realistic time frames for acquiring the knowledge you seek. This will help you remain focused and motivated.
Seek diverse sources of knowledge: Actively search for and embrace a wide range of sources to broaden your understanding and perspectives.
Take action: Remember that knowledge without action holds little value. Put your learning plan into practice and actively pursue the acquisition of knowledge.

The Purposeful Learning Journey:

As you embark on your lifelong learning journey, always remember that learning should serve your purpose and bring you closer to your goals. Consider the practical applications of the knowledge you acquire and how it will benefit you personally and professionally. If your list of learning goals is primarily work-related, take a step back and add a treat for yourself personally, such as music lessons, art classes, voice training, or golf lessons. Enjoy the entire journey, as this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In a world where knowledge is rapidly expanding, lifelong learning is not only valuable but necessary for personal growth and success. By committing to lifelong learning and approaching it strategically, we can adapt to the evolving world, expand our options, and increase our chances of achieving our goals. Understanding our preferred learning styles with the Learning Style indicator and documenting a well-defined learning plan empowers us to navigate this journey effectively. So, embrace the power of lifelong learning, seize every opportunity to acquire knowledge, and live your life with purpose.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

Just Say No to Toxic People

Adrien Gilmore — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 21:01:45 +0000

Just Say No to Toxic People

Strife: Bitter, sometimes violent conflict or dissension; an act of contention; exertion or contention for superiority

Toxic: Containing or showing poisonous material or content; extremely harsh, malicious, or harmful, e.g., toxic sarcasm

What are toxic people costing you?

There’s a saying that you become like the books you read, the TV/media you watch and read, and the company you keep. That holds true for everybody – your family, friends, co-workers, clients, and suppliers. The people around you have a significant impact on your well-being and success. Do they build you up and encourage you, or do they discourage and drain you? It’s essential to take responsibility for your personal space and relationships in life, as doing nothing can allow toxicity to seep into your life.

I have little time or patience for toxic people – (now called the Karen’s of the world)! While we all have our moments of slipping up and making mistakes, this article is about addressing the continual negative behaviors exhibited by certain individuals. These individuals are generally difficult to deal with and seem to thrive on drama, even in the simplest situations.

Toxic people can take various forms, so it’s crucial to sharpen your radar and be able to identify toxic waste. Here are some common toxic behaviors to watch out for:

Character Disorder: In the book “The Road Less Traveled” by M. Scott Peck, the author correctly identifies this condition as one of the most challenging psychological conditions to treat. Individuals with character disorders often blame others and external circumstances for their failures and problems, never taking personal responsibility. This refusal to acknowledge their contribution to their state of affairs makes it unlikely for them to ever change.
Whiners and Complainers: Everything is a dramatic event for these individuals. They constantly find something to be unhappy about, draining the energy of those around them. It seems as if they relish in their misery and even seek attention through their complaining behavior.
Critics: These malicious spirits boost themselves up by tearing others down. They enjoy gossiping, criticizing, judging, and denigrating anyone who spends time with them. Loyalty for them lies only in their own pain, which they feed by involving as many people as possible in their mudslinging and criticism.
Always Have to Be Right or Constant Correctors: Some individuals, as described by Marshall Goldsmith in his book “Triggers,” have an incessant need to be right, even about trivial matters. Being around such people becomes draining and exhausting.
Cellar Dwellers or Pessimists: Pessimists and those trapped in negativity often rely on others to validate their endless discord. These exhausting individuals paint negative mental pictures of past and future doom, solely for the sake of eliciting reactions. It’s important to ignore such bottom feeders and refuse to entertain their obnoxious speculations.

Toxic individuals come in many forms, including the following:

The Pathological Liar
The Putdown Artist
The Hatemonger
The Instigator
The Gossip or Blabbermouth
The Backstabber
The Bully
The Drama Queen or King

It is crucial to avoid toxic individuals whenever possible. If that is not possible, minimize your contact with them and take the following steps:

When you must interact with toxic people, keep the conversation strictly business.
Be polite and cordial, but avoid being overly friendly.
Never express an opinion, reveal a weakness, or discuss others with toxic people
Do not share your personal business with toxic people. Politely decline to answer their personal questions.
Refrain from allowing toxic people to share their personal business with you.
When toxic people try to spread gossip, change the subject. If they persist, firmly express your disinterest, and if necessary, walk away.
Show no interest in their negativity and refuse to engage with their toxic behavior.
Avoid introducing others (if possible) to toxic people.
When appropriate, share with toxic individuals the nature and impact of their behavior. It may be that no one has been brave enough to point out their destructive actions to them.

Research and studies confirm the damage that toxic individuals can inflict on others and teams. Numerous studies have shown that toxic people in the workplace can have detrimental effects on employee well-being, team morale, productivity, and organizational success. These individuals can create a hostile work environment, leading to increased stress, burnout, and decreased job satisfaction among their colleagues. Additionally, research has linked exposure to toxic people to negative mental health outcomes, such as anxiety and depression.

It’s important to note that just as harmful viruses require a human host to exist and thrive, negative states require the consent of human beings to carry out their menacing mission. Negative thoughts hold no power over us unless we allow them to influence our actions. Therefore, it is crucial to withdraw any unknowing permission granted to toxic individuals, preventing their entry into your life.

Years ago, it was mistakenly taught that the customer is always right. However, toxic clients can have a significant impact on individuals and organizations. High-maintenance and consistently toxic clients can drain energy, create a negative work environment, and hinder productivity. Therefore, it is essential to recognize when a client’s behavior becomes toxic and, if possible, take the necessary steps to minimize or terminate the business relationship.

Toxic people can have a detrimental impact on individuals and teams. It is crucial to identify toxic behaviors and take proactive measures to limit or avoid interactions with toxic individuals. Building a toxic-free zone in your personal and professional life can lead to increased fulfillment, purpose, and passion. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals fosters an environment conducive to personal growth and success.

To aid you on your journey of self-discovery and creating a toxic-free zone, the following CRG resources are recommended: “The Quest For Purpose” book and ecourse, Values Preference Indicator and What do you really Value ecourse, Self-Worth Inventory, Stress Indicator and Health Planner and ecourse, and Personal Style Indicator and ecourse.

Action Steps:

At this very moment, think of all your current relationships.
Are any of those people ongoing toxic personalities in your life?
To identify toxic individuals, look out for behaviors such as blaming others, constant complaining, criticizing, always needing to be right, pessimism, gossiping, backstabbing, bullying, and creating drama.
Reflect on how being around these toxic people makes you feel. Do you feel drained, stressed, or unhappy?
Consider the impact of a toxic environment on your fulfillment, purpose, and passion. How has it affected your well-being and personal growth?
Make a decision to limit or avoid interaction with your current toxic contacts. Set boundaries and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being.
When you are around toxic individuals, practice discipline. Refrain from participating in their spreading of negativity. Ignore them, don’t respond, and don’t engage.
Reflect on your own behavior. Are you exhibiting toxic traits? Seek feedback from others to gain awareness. If needed, invest in self-help resources, seek the assistance of a trusted friend, or consider professional help to work on personal growth and behavior change.
Life will always present challenges, but you don’t need to make it more difficult by allowing toxic individuals into your circle. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who contribute to your growth and well-being.

Remember, it’s essential to take responsibility for your relationships and create a positive and supportive environment. By saying no to toxic people, you open the door to personal growth, success, and a life lived with purpose. Embrace the journey and enjoy the fulfillment it brings.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

The Power Of Love

Adrien Gilmore — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 17:21:48 +0000

The Power of Love: A Refreshed Perspective

Love, defined as a strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties, is a topic that holds significant importance in our lives. Despite its significance, accurately describing love in the English language presents a challenge due to the limited scope of a single word that encompasses various levels of affection. Unlike English, Spanish boasts close to two dozen words that convey different nuances of love.

In this article, I will focus on love as it pertains to the interactions and connections we form with other individuals, excluding material possessions, experiences, or competitive activities. While many romantic novels depict love as a chemical reaction between two people, resulting in intense internal feelings, research indicates that these initial feelings tend to fade within approximately two years.

So, what sustains love after being in a relationship for 25 years? The answer lies in making a conscious choice and adopting an intentional mindset. Mort Fertel, in his book Marriage Fitness, outlines the steps couples must take to remain in love. It requires effort, but the reward is the development of a deep, connected relationship.

Sustaining love necessitates daily acts of connection that reflect and support our feelings. Without these acts, no couple would stay together, or if they did, they wouldn’t experience true happiness.

Contrary to common beliefs, love is not merely a feeling but a choice and a mindset. At its core, love involves caring for others above oneself—a selfless engagement with genuine consideration for their well-being. This does not imply weakness or submissiveness; rather, love embodies an attitude of respect and deference toward others.

Love serves as a foundation for other positive behaviors in our lives. For instance, love is necessary to practice patience, kindness, and generosity toward others. The Beatles eloquently expressed this sentiment in their song, “All You Need Is Love.” When we embrace love as a character trait, extraordinary possibilities emerge for each of us.

Conversely, hate, arrogance, loathing, and indifference can be considered antithetical to love. One cannot simultaneously be in a state of love and hate. If given the choice, most individuals would prefer to interact with individuals who possess a loving mindset.

Why is this the case?

1. Positive experience: Interacting with someone who genuinely cares is a positive and uplifting experience, unlike engaging with someone who is angry or upset.

2. Improved results: People are more likely to engage and collaborate when they encounter care and kindness. Consequently, positive results are often achieved through loving interactions.

As a society, we can be quick to judge those who differ from us, leading to demonstrations of intolerance. However, I am not suggesting that we should blindly accept everyone’s behavior or admire their actions. Instead, we can approach others with a mindset of love, which will yield more favorable and enjoyable outcomes compared to a negative attitude.

To harness the Power of Love, I offer the following action steps:

Love is a choice, not solely a feeling. Many relationships break down when the initial feelings fade. However, when love is a conscious choice, relationships can endure.
Embracing a mindset of love allows us to recognize the best in ourselves and others, fostering tolerance.
Reflect upon your own character: Would others describe you as a caring and loving individual? Do your personal and business interactions leave a positive impression?
Strive to improve your behaviors in areas such as patience, kindness, and generosity—prioritizing the well-being of others before yourself.
Recall an instance where you insisted on doing what you wanted, disregarding the desires of another person. Next time, try embracing their choice or preference, even if it differs from your own.
Love perseveres and does not give up. It involves offering support and giving when others would quit. Consider situations where you can embrace this persevering love, such as helping your children with their homework when you’re tired or listening attentively to your partner amidst other responsibilities.
Loving yourself is an integral part of this process. Knowing your purpose enhances your ability to love others. I recommend exploring the new Quest For Purpose ecourse.
Remember that nobody is perfect. When you act without love, acknowledge your actions, let go of any guilt, and quickly return to a mindset of love.
Love in its purest form cannot be destroyed or taken away from you because it resides within your heart and mind. Recognize that even if someone rejects your love, you have the power to maintain your loving mindset. Only you can choose to turn it off.
Imagine a world where most individuals embrace a mindset of caring and love. Visualize the transformative impact it would have on our communities and relationships.
I encourage each of you to embrace love more than ever before, both in play and in everyday life. By doing so, we will collectively benefit and create a better world for ourselves and those around us.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

Time, the Great Equalizer

Yuni San Vicente — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 04:45:13 +0000

Time, the Great Equalizer

Time: a period during which an action, process or condition exists or continues or a system of reckoning

What would you pay for extra time?

I bet you would pay everything you have. Why? Because time is the one thing in life that no one can change, alter, or influence. At least not at the moment. (Star Trek or Back to the Future fans might be hopeful there will be other options down the road. But for now…)

You can’t defer time, save it, grow it, invest it—or ever get it back. It waits for no one. It is what it is.

However, many groups offer seminars or workshops on the topic of time management. How misleading and ridiculous is that? The fact is that nobody can manage time; people can only manage themselves and the activities that occur in relationship to time.

If you think about it, time is the great equalizer. It has no bias, prejudice or favorites. Everyone is equal.

Almost everything in culture is based on time—schedules, retirement, insurance, hourly wages, education, aging and on it goes.

Can you imagine a life without time? You might be wondering, “Ken, what’s your point?”

Well, over the past 35 years, I have written about subjects like procrastination, leadership, urgency addiction, living in the moment, courage, health, balance and living on purpose—100+ different topics. Have you acted on any of the insights that you have gained? Or just believed there will be time “later” to address the issues?

Are you happy with the way you have used your time so far?
Have you treated your time with respect, or with disregard?
If you needed to change something about the way you manage yourself in relationship to time, what would that be?
If someone who knows you and were to reflect on how you use your time, what would they say?

If time cannot be managed, then all you can do is manage your actions within its context.

The great French [Marshal Hubert] Lyautey once asked his gardener to plant a tree. The gardener objected that the tree was slow growing and would not reach maturity for 100 years. The [Marshal] replied, “In that case, there is no time to lose; plant it this afternoon!”

John F. Kennedy U.S. Politician 1917–1963

Time should be the main reason you start something now!

A seminar participant once made this statement to the facilitator: “Do you know it will take me four years to get my degree, and then I’ll be 60 years old?” The facilitator thought for a moment and responded, “How old will you be in four years if you don’t get your degree?” The participant was using time as an excuse for not doing the work.

This article is not about urgency addiction or being obsessive about every moment in your life; rather, it is about being intentional with your time and acknowledging that time waits for no one.

There are two sides of time that you can do nothing about—the past and the future. The only space you actually occupy is this moment —right now—while you are reading this sentence. “If-only” thinking and regret about the past simply squanders more time.

I want everyone reading this article to declare that the moment is now, that all people are equals in the time game, that no one has an advantage over anyone else. Let’s consider some time-related statements you often hear:

I saved time by…
I wasted time by…
I invested my time in…
I accumulated time by…
That was time well spent.
Boy, did time fly by.
That was time-consuming.
There’s lots of time; I’ll do that later.
There is never enough time.
If I only had 48 hours in a day.

As I have mentioned on many occasions, my purpose is to help others find their purpose. There is nothing more appalling than someone living without purpose, just wasting their precious time. Everyone has gifts and talents. Everyone has a purpose. They just need to uncover it and use it.

Time is never the measurement of an individual’s success. What they did with their time is what counted!

My challenge for you is this: No matter what you need to work on or change to fully engage in life, just do it—and do it now.

Remember, time waits for no one.

To assist you on your journey, I am recommending three specific resources:

My latest book and full ecourse, The Quest For Purpose, helps guide you in all the areas in your life that reflect your passions, purpose and fulfillment. Yes, it will take a bit of time to complete, but so what? Where will you be in two months (or two years) if you don’t do it?
Make sure your life reflects your core values. Complete CRG’s Values Preference Indicator. or the ecourse that goes with it.
Take the Personal Style Indicator or take the ecourse that support you living a life in your strengths. (PSI). The PSI deals with your orientation towards time and the self-management skills required to realize your full potential.

Time is the most valuable thing you can spend. Spend it wisely.

Action Steps

Time, the Great Equalizer

There is no such thing as time management. You can manage only yourself and your activities in relationship to time.
Time has no prejudice; it is an equal opportunity player.
How do you treat your time—with respect or contempt? What is the result of your attitudes?
Where do you live—in the past, future or present? Regret and worrying about the future wastes time and the future is still not here. Just stay in the present. (Though it’s important to have goals and a vision.)
Have you delayed important decisions or projects because you felt they would take too long? Think about that statement for a moment. Won’t those projects still take that long after you get started? Just do it now!
How has your perception of time affected your choices and activities? Can you improve the way you think about your relationship with time? How?
The busiest and most successful individuals—people who use their time wisely—are living on purpose, living their values and taking accountability for their lives. Use the following three CRG ecourses to help get you there or to affirm your current direction: The Quest For Purpose, Values Preference Indicator and Personal Style Indicator. There’s no time like the present to get started.
Do you allow time-wasting habits to steal your time? Do other people in your life lack respect for your time? Both those areas are your responsibility.
Everyone (myself included) needs to give up this obsession with time—the lack of it, the saving of it, the hoarding of it, etc. In the end, you simply need to manage yourself and fully engage life in the moments you inhabit.
Right now is the best time of your life. After all, the only place in time that you actually occupy is now.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

Are You Getting the Results You Really Want?

Yuni San Vicente — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 19:47:37 +0000

Are You Getting the Results You Really Want?

Results: to come about as an effect or consequence

Are you getting the results you really want? If your answer is Yes, great! The rest of this article is for your review and affirmation.

But, if your results in all areas of your life are not where you would like them to be, please read on.

Most people—including me—have goals… of making money, attaining a certain fitness level, having great personal relationships and so on.

Have you fallen short in your results?

Example: Let’s say someone intended to purchase an investment property for X amount last year, but that never happened. So did they have the true intent to invest; or was it simply an idle wish. When they could not find an easy route to purchasing the property, they quit trying. The results you are experiencing in your life are equal to your true intent. Ouch! That statement hurts me as much as it might hurt many of you. I am holding my own feet to the fire this month. Many readers will also feel the heat. That’s all right; pressure creates diamonds.

Successful results are a reflection of your deepest, most focused commitments.

Here’s a personal example. A few years ago, I was in the best shape I had been in my life. I had been dedicated to increasing my fitness level and I’d been doing very well. However, I went on a six- week trip to Australia, had severe jet lag upon my return, for four weeks, and celebrations and travel continued. As a result, my fitness level declined.

What is my true intent?

Upon deeper reflection, I see my intent was to improve my fitness level, as long as it did not require too much sacrifice or inconvenience. My commitment was too shallow. My intent was just a wish—not a serious intent.

The question I need to ask is this: Do I really want the results that a higher fitness level will provide, or not? Because in the end, results speak louder than words.

Where in your life do you have a disparity between your perceived intent and your results? What is this costing you in missed opportunities, health, relationships, etc.?

Many individuals use the excuse that they do not understand what to do to get the results they want. Interestingly enough, the successful-results formula doesn’t require that you know the “how to” part first; it simply requires clear and intense intent.

Does my intent to be fit win or does the convenience factor win? The answer is that my highest intent will win out in the end.

If you truly want to change your results, you must change your intensity levels toward your intent. They must become so high that there is no alternative but to achieve your results. Motion begets motion. This means that taking action helps you take action.

One excellent example comes from the sales profession. As a past top sales performer and sales trainer, I know that many sales reps have great sales months when their backs are up against the wall. Maybe the month before was a disaster, or new bills arrived. No matter the reason, they had to perform that month or be out on the street.

They stepped up to get the results. It’s amazing what happens to results when there are no options. Think about sports when teams are in the final minutes of the game—urgency and action increase.

In the beginning of my sales career, I found my sales performance was better when I owed money to the bank on a short-term loan. There was no hiding behind savings or lukewarm intent; I had commitments that had to be met. Guess what? I always made them. Yes, it was a mental game I was playing with myself, but nevertheless, it works for increasing my level of intent.

So if you are not getting the results you want, it is time to put away the excuses.

This includes removing your statements of mild intent, unless you are willing to turn up the volume. If you don’t, your life will reflect many situations of “almost made it” and your personal credibility with self and others will erode as you keep missing the mark.

Do you know people who say they are going to take action to achieve something, yet never seem to follow through? What do you think when they talk about their next intent? Over time, you won’t give their words a second thought, as in the story of crying wolf.

Set your wishes aside for the moment. Focus on the items for which you’re willing to put your reputation at risk. By the way, this is not about just acquiring things; it’s about everything in your life… from health and relationships, to impacting your community, and of course your resources.

Yes, you do need to know the “how to” to get your results. If that’s all you needed, however, everyone would be healthy, wealthy and wise—and that’s just not the case, is it? There’s a plethora of information on “how to” about those topics, right?

In the end, the results you are getting in all areas of your life are speaking loudly about your true intent. I am not saying you don’t want more wealth or better personal relationships or improved health; however, unless you achieve results, some hidden agenda is trumping your cards. Consciously or unconsciously, you are living your true intent.

Examples:

You want to increase your wealth, but are not willing to take any risks. Therefore, wealth is not your true intent.
You want to have a great relationship, but you always have to prove you are right and your partner is wrong. Therefore, happiness is not your true intent.
You want to be healthy but don’t discipline yourself in your activities and in healthy eating and drinking. Therefore, good health is not your true intent.

You get the picture.

Your results will come from being aligned with your values, gifts, talents and abilities. To assist you on this journey, I am recommending four resources for you! Are you serious about improving yourself? Meaning if you don’t engage new learning are you really serious

To be clear about your values, complete the Values Preference Indicator or take the What Do You Really Value? eCourse
To help you with your health intentions, complete the Stress Indicator and Health Planner or complete our Dying To Live eCourse
To increase your confidence, use the Self Worth Inventory.
To understand and be clear about your preferred modes of personal operations, complete the number one rated Personality assessment the Personal Style Indicator or complete our Why Aren’t You More Like Me? eCourse.

In the end, your results will speak louder than words. That is the ultimate accountability process.

Action Steps

Are You Getting the Results You Really Want?

True results are a reflection of your deepest, most focused commitments.
Are your results less than what you want? If so, list what you really want.
If you are not getting the results you say you want, look deeper. What is your true intent behind your wants?
If you are falling short of the mark (results), your want was more like a casual wish. Which wants in your life (be real) are more of a wish than a strong intent? List them now.
Based on your list of wishes, what do you plan to keep, change or abandon? Document them now.
It should always be your list, not someone else’s list.
Make a list of wants that are non-negotiable. This list represents your strongest level of intent. There is no going back on this list.
Make this a mental game. Attach some type of consequence in case you don’t achieve your desired results. For this game to work, your consequence needs to actually hurt if you don’t achieve your intent. Put something of value (money counts) on the table for a charity or give it to someone who will benefit from receiving it. If you can’t make this commitment, you have only a wish—not strong intent.
Select a trusted accountability partner who will support and help push you through to your desired results. Share your intent and say that unless they can show tough love when necessary, you will select someone else.
Get crystal clear about your values, gifts and talents by engaging the following resources:
Why Aren’t YouMore Like Me? eCourse
Why Aren’t You More Like Me? II PSI Trainer’s Certification eCourse
What Do You Really Value? eCourse
Dying To Live eCourse
The Quest For Purpose eCourse

Values Preference Indicator, Stress Indicator and Health Planner, Self Worth Inventory, Personal Style Indicator. They will improve your results.

Be fully and completely engaged with your intent. Think, dream and embrace your intent at an emotional level. If you can’t do this, ask yourself if it is true intent or just a wish. If it is a wish, let it go until it can be yours at an intense level.

Remember: Unless you have true Intent, it will be difficult to maintain your intensity.

13. In the end, it is your results that everyone sees. The rest is just smoke and mirrors.

Yes, it’s time to be accountable and get the results you want and deserve. Turn up your intent until there are no other options. Go for it!

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

Is Your Lifestyle Killing You?

Adrien Gilmore — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 02:58:27 +0000

As someone who worked out regularly and was a triathlon competitor, I am currently 20 lbs. overweight. The fact that I have a diploma in nutrition and genetics and a wellness coach makes my current health condition embarrassing.

Health care or sick care as my MD friend calls it – is quickly becoming the number one concern in the Western world. Our life expediency for the first time in 50 years is reducing and individuals are more stressed than ever. The more enlightened are looking at the quality of their life as equal to as or more important than the length of their life.

As the baby boomers reach retirement age, they are expecting an active lifestyle — not the past stereo-typical “doing nothing” view of retirement. In fact, most want the option of becoming more physically and mentally active than they were during their working career.

In addition, our achievement of longer life has created unanticipated fallout in the economic models on which developed countries operate. Already several countries are raising their retirement age from the average age of 65. Why? They can’t support their population for the 20 extra years that many of them are going to live. Those of you who are younger and who will not be financially independent at retirement should expect to work much later. Age 70+ will become the new retirement norm.

Modern society has not only helped us live longer, it has contributed to increasing our stress levels. In a recent survey by Northwestern Life, over 40% of workers reported their jobs to be “very or extremely stressful.”

Heart disease and cancer ― are two of the primary disease killers in North America ― are more rampant than ever as damaging lifestyle choices and poor diet. But now mental health is the middle of crisis as more young people will die of suicide than any other cause. This is not okay.

There is not enough space in this short article to outline all the strategies but here is a start with links to additional resources.

1.Take responsibility for your own health condition. Blaming others will not improve your health and it might increase your stress levels.

2. Establish your current health condition. Many of us take better care of our automobiles than we do ourselves. When was the last time you had a maintenance check-up? Have an annual physical check-up.

3. Another option is to complete CRG’s Online Stress Indicator & Health Planner (SIHP) Or engage in our full online course (4 hours or powerful content) Dying to Live. It can serve as a powerful process to not only assessment and benchmark your stress and health practices but provide step by step process to improve your over all well being in five areas of your life. .

Physical Health: Physical, Psychological, and Behavioral Symptoms
Interpersonal Stress Factors
Wellness Practices
Nutritional Practices
Occupational Stress

One of our clients has been using this assessment every year for over a decade in her organization of 6000 employees. The SIHP helps staff members determine if there has been an improvement in their health condition after implementing certain wellness strategies.

4. Think preventative wellness and nutritional balance, not drugs and medicine. Unfortunately, the majority of medical practitioners are trained to treat, not help prevent conditions. Medical training includes very little instruction on the nutritional effects on the human body. My many doctor friends agree that more must be done to include the preventative mindset in the medical community.

After my family member almost died of a heart attack, the doctors put him on a low-fat, high-carb diet. The results of this approach increased his risk factors. After switching to a low-carb diet, he now is in better shape than he was 20 years ago.

5. Set-up a plan that will work for you and your life conditions and preferences. Be realistic.

6. Take action. This is one area where just thinking about it will not help us achieve the wellness levels we all want.

7. Special Note: A breakthrough study has identified that mental health or lack of it is a metabolic disorder not a mental health disorder. That means what you are eating and your lifestyle is killing you not your mindset. It is about your Brain Energy. (More to come on this in the future)

Health and safety losses cost billions each year in lost productivity and related expenses, not to mention the intangible personal costs. You have seen on the news where seemingly perfectly fit joggers die while running. Wellness issues apply to more than overweight and inactive individuals.

Environmental stress is global; it does not restrict its effects to certain groups. Our lifestyle choices are contributing to our health and wellness condition.

This Week´s Action Steps

Health and wellness are your responsibility. After all, you will have to live with yourself for the rest of your life.

1. Take responsibility for your health and wellness.

2. Determine the ideal health and wellness condition for you. Document the differences between your current lifestyle and your new plan so that you have health goals to shoot for.

3. Establish your current health and wellness levels by completing our Stress Indicator & Health Planner Assessment and our Dying to Live eCourse

4. Acknowledge your current condition before embarking on an improvement plan. If I decided to run a marathon next week, you would surely be reading about my untimely demise.

5. If you have not done so, have an annual check-up to benchmark your medical condition.

6. Be holistic in your wellness plan. Map your improvements in all areas: nutrition, wellness, interpersonal, occupational, and physical.

7. Physical activity must be part of your plan. Recent research proves how your overall health and cognitive abilities improve by simply walking 25,000 steps a week.

8. Make your plan a challenge. Make it fun. Be creative. If time is an issue, plan activities that combine healthy pursuits with important relationships.

9. Nutrition will play a critical part in your long-term success; it must be included in your wellness plan.

10. Start from where you are. Now.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

Do You Dare To Dream ?

Adrien Gilmore — Sat, 10 Dec 2022 00:35:02 +0000

Today, I want to encourage you to have fun by expanding your dreams (as in your wishes and desires, not what happens while you’re sleeping).

Children naturally have endless imagination and dreams. Educators have confirmed through research that those children who take part in more imaginary play have increased confidence and problem-solving skills. That’s why too much television or device time is detrimental to children; it eliminates their need to imagine, to dream. Not to mention that device use creates additions!

Dreams and doubts are forms of thought and opinion, not fact. But as people grow up, many of them lose the childlike ability to imagine what might be possible. They become more pragmatic, and hide behind the adult notion of being more “realistic.”

Dreams are hindered by doubt; so, for this moment, I am asking you to take a journey of dreams—your dreams—and to fight off any doubt that might rear its ugly head.

Dreams attract opportunities; doubt repels them.

For this very instant, assume there are no limits or restrictions on your dreams or your resources to achieve them.

First, dreams—your dreams—are your birthright; you need to own your dreams. Over the past couple of decades, I have discovered that dreams are very personal, and people don’t usually hold on to dreams that they cannot achieve. Give yourself credit that your dreams are really your desires and that they are possible!

To get you in the right frame of mind, read this poem by 13th-century poet Rumi.

You were born with potential.
You were born with trust.
You were born with ideals and dreams.
You were born with greatness.
You were born with wings.
You were not meant for crawling, so don’t.
You have wings. Learn to use them to fly.

Dreams can assume the forms of doing, being, and having.

If you knew you could not fail, what would you do?

1. What have you not done that you would like to do? Here are some ideas to get you started:

Travel: Where would you like to go that you have never been?
Activities: What new activity would you like to do?
Accomplishments: Would you like to write a book, a song, a play, etc.? Volunteer? Become an advocate? Go back to school or start a new business?

Stop, think, and dream about them now.

2. What would you like to be, by developing yourself to become a better, more complete, and fulfilled person?

What areas of knowledge would you like to acquire?
What skills would you like to develop?
What disciplines would you like to master?
What can you do to be more healthy and fit?

Stop, think, and dream about those things now.

3. What would you like to have? The options are endless when it comes to physical and material items. Just make sure you are thinking about your dreams, not the ones placed upon you by other people or society.

Now, believe you already have achieved your dreams. Reflect on how this feels. Do you really want each dream to become reality? If you do, keep it. If not, let it go.

Stop, think about, and visualize your third list now. Remember, you can’t fail.

Take the time to write out your dream list. Review it often. Update it, refine it, and expand it.

You’ll find that the more you do dream, the more you will dream. Abundance begets abundance. If you think this approach is too over-the-top and you’re finding it challenging to accept, here’s your homework:

1) Engage as many individuals as possible in the next week and encourage them in their own dreams.
2) Support them, even in their simplest desires.
3) Pay attention to how that simple act of kindness can spur you to own your own dreams.

One of the greatest gifts that you can give others is for you to continually expand your dreams and your thinking; that encourages others to do the same. When you help others embrace their dreams, you will discover that yours will expand, too.

This Week’s Action Steps

Consider whether you are inspired by your dreams, or your doubt.
Dare to dream—doubt and dreams rarely occupy the same space.
Think about what dreams you would embrace if you knew failure was not an option. What dreams have you given up that you need to revive?
Make a list of all the things you would do, be, or have. To make your list, review the details provided earlier in this newsletter.
Imagine, for a moment, that your dreams are happening. How does that make you feel? Can you notice your increased energy and inspiration?
Write out your dream list. Review it often; give yourself permission to continue to refine and update it.
Make sure that everything on your dream list is really yours. If you have no positive emotions toward a dream, ensure it’s your dream and not something that society or someone else has influenced you to “want.” If it is not your dream, please remove it from your list.
Step out and help others embrace their dreams if you ever feel doubt about your own. Encouraging others in their dreams and desires is a gift that will bless them and benefit you in your own journey.
Remember: Dreams are not just for children; they are for everyone—including you!
If you are unsure about your calling, purpose or desires consider our online course The Quest For Purpose where I will take you step-by-step through a process to help you determine, confirm and live out your dreams.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

The Power of Being Intentional

josie@clientsmoneyfreedom.com — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 02:38:08 +0000

According to science and research, most of us live 95% to 97% of our lives on autopilot . . . we don’t consciously think about many of the things we are doing each day.

Some of you might be surprised by that number.

Let’s reflect on this for a moment.

You got up this morning.
Did you follow the same routine you had done for months and years, not varying it at all?
Did you even think about what you did first?

Just this morning, my sequence of events happened as it does every single morning: Get up, visit the washroom, take a multivitamin, turn on the podcast, shave, shower, and dress—breakfast 9 times out of 10 consists of consuming the same items in identical order.

Where is the intentionality in our routines if we don’t even think about what we are doing anymore? Have you ever arrived at a location in your vehicle, then thought, how did I get here? Some of you drove to work today and did not think about your route.

The point is that most of our life is lived according to our autopilot, our subconscious minds, rather than through any intentionality (proactive thinking) on our part!

To be intentional is to knowingly choose your direction and shake up the routine occasionally to get your conscious mind working.

Some teach that we should have routines to lessen the burden of all the choices we have to make, and there is some truth to that strategy.

But what happens when we allow our routines to run our lives rather than intentionally engaging them? Autopilot costs us lost opportunities, or it may take us completely off course, landing us at a destination we have not envisioned or planned. That happens when we don’t consciously or intentionally take over from our autopilot — a sin of omission.

Your life can be negatively affected by what you don’t do as much as what you do.

A few years ago, I took charge of my health and wellness, which had fallen into disrepair. After I chose to get intentional with my health, I set a new direction, changed my routine, and lost nearly 40 pounds. Scroll ahead 3 years to where I injured myself playing hockey, which forced me to miss my workouts for a couple of months. I gained 10 pounds right away and didn’t return to working out.

It took a new level of intentionality on my part to get back on track. I can credit my wife, Brenda, for some friendly competition she secretly trained and surprised me by running a 10K race. Yes, I was proud of her, but my competitive side said, if she can do this, so can I!

So, , I stepped up my efforts and began to follow a 10K training schedule. The workout had something different every day, making it challenging and far more enjoyable than repeating the same workout routine each session. My new enthusiasm gave me important insight that my motivation to work out prior to the 10K training plan had reduced significantly. I now realize I was resisting because I was bored and stuck in a routine (autopilot).

I competed and completed my first 10K race because I chose to be intentional! Now this was a few years ago and my lifestyle and injuries no longer allow me to do competitive running – so my wife and I have made the choice to walk 10,000 steps together 3-5 times per week weather permitting. Now we achieve two things at once – relationship and connection building plus fitness and movement. This shift was intentional.

Too many routine and autopilot responses can lead to our becoming stale and to outcomes we don’t really want.

Review the Action Steps to confirm possible ways you can shift from autopilot living to being intentional in all areas of your life.

Action Steps

The Power of Being Intentional

Upon reflection, what percentage of your life is on autopilot?
Which of your routines, responses, and activities are on autopilot? Make a quick list of those items.
What do you want to change to become more intentional in your life? Think about all the areas of your life: personal, physical, relationships, financial, career, recreation, friends, social, spiritual, mental, emotional, and anything else that is important to you.
One way to shift behaviors is to map out a new destination. What new outcomes or goals will help overcome your autopilot?
To help you on this journey, switch up a regular routine to get yourself off autopilot. Drive a different route, do things in a new order, try something new, phone new friends, and so on. Force yourself to get out of the rut, so your mind must become intentional with each new step.
To be more intentional, you must know yourself. Complete CRGs Values Preference Indicator (VPI) and Personal Style Indicator (PSI) to get to know yourself better . . . so you can be intentional!
Read Why Aren’t You More Like Me?“! It provides a roadmap for understanding yourself and others. You will learn about your natural tolerance for risk and be better able to play to your strengths.
Consider using The Quest For Purpose Journal to find your life purpose and to help you live your life intentionally.
Hey, make this fun! Enjoy the ride of turning off your autopilot and flying intentionally in your life.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

Realizing Your Potential: What It Means To Live On Purpose!

josie@clientsmoneyfreedom.com — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 02:30:27 +0000

Do you believe that you have more potential to contribute or achieve? Most people would say “yes.” But how do we tap into our potential and purpose?

Did you know, that

Nearly 80% of individuals dislike what they do for a living? (The levels of dislike range from a feeling of mild irritation to downright loathing.)
Over 70% of people have no conscious idea of their Personal Style, strengths, values, interests, gifts, or talents?
Up to 95% of illness is related to lifestyle?
Most people don’t have any clear vision for their future?

When interviewing colleague (now late) Richard Knowdell, a 40-year career-development professional, I asked: “With all the career-development resources available, why do 80% of people still not enjoy their work?”

His answer: “People are not willing to do the work or invest in their own professional development to achieve growth. Most will spend more time and money on entertainment this year than on their own development.”

In fact, most individuals will spend more on entertainment this weekend than they are willing to invest in their own professional development this year!

Example: The stats state that the average individuals will spend 3-5 hours on social media as day – yes, a day! Yet, I had one person concerned that our online courses took 3-5 hours to complete. This is just an excuse – time is not the issue, but rather priorities.

So where do we start to make changes?

To realize our potential, we must make a commitment to work on ourselves. Without self-awareness, we will be unable to make intentional decisions. It’s important to fully understand our preferences and how important they are to all our life choices.

In five separate studies, the process of clarifying and documenting values resulted in increased confidence, reduced stress, increased wellness, improved objectivity, enhanced decision-making capabilities, and increased resilience to challenges and problems.

Are you clear about your core values? What about your gifts, talents, and abilities?

The following Motivation/Inspiration Model© can help you understand how to live “On Purpose,” realize your potential, as well as provide a way to see and nurture the potential and purpose in others.

Although there are many factors, I will reference two that specifically affect your ability to realize your potential.

Factor #1: Your State of Joy and Happiness

It is impossible to realize your potential if you are miserable, down and unhappy. That doesn’t mean every moment will be filled with joy, but consider whether you are generally feeling grounded and centered. The now is the only place any of us can ever live, so why not enjoy it? A wave of research is underway in the area of mindfulness and the importance of being present in the now.

Consider also your mindset, or the way you are experiencing your life—your level of happiness. All your thoughts and actions have an impact, and you cannot realize your potential unless you are in a place of contentment. Are you joyful in the moment? If I were to ask your co-workers, family, and friends, what would they say? When people interact with you, are they better or worse for it?

We have a choice about how we will react and respond to what life hands us. Are you intentional about your joy and happiness?

If we are miserable, whining, and constantly complaining (displaying lack of joy/happiness), people won’t be inclined to support us, or even be around us; that is just common sense. Further, unhappiness is contributing to our increased stress and illness levels. Over 50% of the global workforce feels highly stressed! If you are not content in the now, then you are not realizing your full potential.

Factor #2: Your Future Vision

Recently, it has been suggested that smart goals do more harm than good; however, having a vision is critical to realizing potential.

Vision should be an active-tense condition, always in play—something you are working toward achieving.
Hope (which refers to the future) is very powerful; it drives people to become and do more.

You might be familiar with Viktor Frankl, author of Man’s Search for Meaning, who lived in German prison camps during the Second World War. In his book, Frankl states the reason he survived (and others did not) was his daily vision (hope) of reuniting with his family. That gave him inspiration, determination, and strength when others despaired. His statement that “others can take everything from me but they cannot take my vision or dreams” is one we can all embrace. If we have no future vision, then what will inspire us to become and do more?

Realizing our calling, purpose, and potential takes us to a place of fulfillment and encouragement. Everything that has ever been achieved by the human race was first envisioned.

Ask yourself:

What are my visions and dreams?
What do I need to learn?
Who would I like to become?
What am I called to be and do? What is my purpose?
Where do I want to make a difference?
How would I like to be remembered?
What will be my legacy?

Most people are not clear on the answers, and it takes effort and time to be diligent in seeking them. Not everyone is committed to the process—but are you? My newest book (and now a full ecourse), The Quest For Purpose, provides a roadmap for those seeking to live a life full of purpose and joy. The Motivation/Inspiration Model© is just one chapter in the book.

Remember, to reach your fullest potential, you must:

Decide if you are willing to invest both time and money in your development and if you’re ready to make the changes required to realize your potential. If so, do it!

Determine whether you are living in a state of joy and happiness, and living in the moment. If not, what choices will you have to make to shift into that state?

Cultivate self-awareness and gain a clear understanding of your preferences, values, gifts, talents, and abilities.

Consider what others might be saying about you. Are you a person whom others like to be around, or do you drain their energy? Do you need to make changes to create a more positive impact?

True purpose and joy are also spiritual matters.

Investigate and/or strengthen your connection in this area so your joy can be sustainable and self-generating.

By making a commitment to do the work necessary to realize your potential, you have the opportunity to transform your own life, and ultimately the lives of those around you.

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis

The Keys to Attracting Your Perfect Job, Role, or Career!

josie@clientsmoneyfreedom.com — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 00:47:07 +0000

Are you in your perfect job?

According to several studies, 50%-80% of individuals are unhappy with their jobs, roles, or careers ranging from irritated to loathe! This issue has become a problem in today’s fast-paced competitive workplace. Add new virtual or blended work environments, and this lack of engagement correlates with increased frequency of people either quitting their jobs or underperforming in their roles.

Your degree of satisfaction with your career (position) also directly affects your degree of satisfaction with your personal life and vice versa.

So, how do you know whether you are in your right job or not? What can you do to attract your ideal job or career?

When you are in your role or job is a fit, you are happy, motivated, and passionate about what you are doing that it doesn’t feel much like work. This means that you are doing your absolute best with the least amount of effort. And you can do this when you are using your natural talent and gift as the basis of your career.

Each of us is born with specific talents. And before you can attract your perfect career, work, or life, you must be clear about your gifts, skills, and interests.

Consider every day, not as a drudge, but a new opportunity to tap into your talent — the things that energize you— and discover your passions.

However, the challenge for many of you is that your gifts and talents don’t fit the Standard Industry Classification (SIC) Code. While it may be easy to define the skills necessary to do the job of a welder, bus driver, or receptionist, how do an intrapreneur and an entrepreneur fit into the code?

I’ll tell you, and many people do not! Making career/life decisions using the status quo is not always beneficial. For many of us, that process misses the mark.

My primary MBA research revealed that the higher individuals moved on the traditional corporate ladder, the lower their job satisfaction and morale levels, and that is a fact.

Even though I was not surprised by the research results, I was not prepared with direct follow-up questions to confirm the exact reasons for their growing job dissatisfaction.

Further evidence points to this: as people progress along the responsibility trail, they have less time and less balance in their lives; there is a growing chasm between their work life and the life they envisioned for themselves. Increasingly they are forced to make choices among the things they value most in life – and they simply do not like the options.

Don’t get me wrong. Working is foundational to living a fulfilling life (please note: work includes everything from being a CEO volunteering to parent). However, I want to suggest that your job, career, or business should be there to serve you, not the other way around. Not from a selfish point of view but a self-honoring where you can bring your best with passion and purpose.

I agree with colleague Dr. Alan Weiss’s opinion on life – we don’t have a work and home life; we simply have a life with all its elements. Our relationships, our communities, our hobbies — they are all connected. So, if you are in a job or career, or business that is not serving you and using your gifts, talents, and interests, then it is time to take action and consider a change.

Working in a way that doesn’t align with your natural abilities, talents, and gifts will yield fewer results and lower satisfaction levels. This leads to longer, more unsatisfying hours with fewer incentives for individuals and a lack of productivity for organizations.

As Helen Keller once put it, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”

Action Steps

Establish what you want in a position, career, or opportunity.
Let go of your fear – your choices determine your quality of life.
Ask for support. Get feedback from friends, coaches, and colleagues – and tell the truth.
Take quiet time to listen to yourself. Expect to receive the answers you seek.
Make a list of all the characteristics, qualities, and attributes of your perfect opportunity.
Compare that list to your current situation. In many cases, individuals who complete this process find out that they can achieve exactly what they wish to accomplish with a few adjustments and a bit of fine-tuning. For some reason, they have not been accepting that they are pretty close to having what they want. Some individuals must permit themselves to enjoy their life. Some individuals confirm that they are in the correct position but working within an unsupportive leadership or poor working environment.
Envision your perfect career or business in all its detail. How does it look? Document it, reflect on it, and get excited about living it!
Complete assessment and interest inventories to help in the clarification process. One of the CRG tools many individuals have used with great success is the Job Style Indicator. The Job Style Indicator will help you determine (in comparison with your Personal Style Indicator results) whether you utilize your natural personal style strengths in your current job position.

I ALSO RECOMMEND…

(Click below to take the assessment)

Personal Style Indicator (PSI)

To identify your natural preferences and strengths.

Self-Worth Inventory

To understand how your level of self-worth is affecting your success.

Stress Indicator and Health Planner

To determine how your lifestyle influences your stress and wellness levels.

Values Preference Indicator

To clarify your core values.

9. If you are the one in five individuals who have achieved perfect responsibility “On Purpose,” what is your next level? How can you go even higher?

Until next time, keep Living On Purpose!

Ken Keis