Top 100 Minds - Executive Excellence Publishing

by Jim Cathcart

Well, here's a great way to start a Christmas holiday: I just received notice that I was chosen as one of the Top 100 Minds on Personal Development by Executive Excellence Publishing. The Publisher is Ken Shelton, I've admired the many publications he has produced, such as Leadership Excellence, Sales Excellence and more.

Though my articles have occasionally been published in EEP publications I am by no means one of their main authors, so this was quite a pleasant shock.
The criteria for selection are listed below in Ken's article and the list appears below it, twice, one version in larger print than the other for your viewing.

Thanks for being a reader of my blog and Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Tiger Woods, Christmas and Emails

by Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE

Yesterday Tiger Woods won his fourth Target World Challenge tournament here at Sherwood Country Club and donated $1,350,000 to his foundation for kids.

What an impressive guy! Paula and I were among the 18,000 happy participants who witnessed as Tiger came in 22 under par for four days of play. His closest competitor was 7 strokes behind him. And those seven strokes paid half a million dollars less!





Think of your own career performance and how significant one or two "strokes" per day can be. I'm inspired to pay much more attention to each thing I do. How could you take your "game" up a notch or two next year?



This Christmas season (yes, I'm a Christian, but even if I weren't I'd still refer to it as the Christmas season because that's literally what it is. All religions deserve our respect. It is the fact that we believe in a higher being that unites us. We shouldn't let our approach to it divide us.) As I was saying, "this Christmas season"...presents us with a wonderful opportunity to show each other that we care.
Our appreciation of the connections we enjoy is what helps keep those connections alive. Please take time to thank the folks you know, care about and benefit from. Especially those who risk their lives for us every day.

I am one of those who LOVES email. It's bizarre I know, but I love the convenience and flexibility of it. We can connect all day and night and add graphics if desired. Cool. I'll endeavor to limit my emails to you but please understand that, if it didn't matter, I would not have sent it. So, please at least scan our messages before you hit delete. Sometimes there is a special gift in it for you. Like in this one.

During 2007 I wrote five new e-books in a "Relationship Selling Series". You are welcome to obtain one for free just for reading this Blog. I'll list them below and you can send me an email to jim@cathcart.com with the title of the one you want. I'll reply with the ebook attached. These books sell for $9.95 each but your choice of one is my Christmas gift to you, my reader. By the way, for the non-sales folks, the book on Sales Psychology, Understanding the mind of your buyer, would be the least "sales-y" and most transferable to other disciplines.


Jim Cathcart's newest e-books:
1. Introduction to Relationship Selling (a comprehensive overview)
2. Sales Readiness: How preparation leads to opportunity
3. Finding the Buyers: How to reach those who want what you've got
4. Connecting with your Customer: Understanding the buyer's needs
5. Sales Psychology: Understanding the mind of your buyer

Have a great Holiday and call on me anytime I can help.
PS: my sixth ebook will be titled "Sales Presentations: Solving problems, filling needs and increasing the desire to buy. Coming soon!

Gratitude is easier this way

by Jim Cathcart

http://www.gratitudecampaign.org/fullmovie.php

The link above will take you to a video clip that shows, powerfully, how to say "thank you" non-verbally (in sign language)
so that all those times when you wish you had said "thanks" are no longer passing you by.

HOW TO SIGN "THANK YOU"

The American Sign Language sign for "thank you" is quite simple. Actually, the sign we're using for the gratitude campaign literally translates as "thank you from the bottom of my heart."

To make the sign simply place your hand on your heart as though you're saying the Pledge of Allegiance. Then pull your hand down and out, bending at the elbow (not the wrist), stopping for a moment at about the belly with your hand, palm up.

This should be one smooth, straight movement.
(Careful not to make this an arcing movement that returns to and touches the belly - that's the sign for "pregnant"!)

This is a very inspiring campaign and a touching message worthy of being shared with everyone.
I personally recommend it heartily.
Jim Cathcart

Saved Again! Thank you Fire Fighters

by Jim Cathcart

I can't imagine how tough it must be to face a raging inferno and boldly enter it as a firefighter or police officer.
As you have no doubt heard, the fires came once again to Malibu (just over the hill from Lake Sherwood where I am). But this time the Fire Department had reserves nearby and was ready to respond instantly. Even with that, 51 structures were lost and many people's dreams disappeared in flames.
My good friend and fellow hiker, Rocky Morton, sent these photos. Rocky is the brunette on the radio in the photo. She is part of the Sheriff's department in LA County. A narrative of the photos from one of her team members is pasted below.




Here are two pics to contemplate:
Water Drop - In this image, we are looking down into Malibu Bowl after our evacuations were complete. Fire Dept. is desperately trying to save the dense cluster of houses just around the knoll at the right of the image.
They ultimately saved more than they lost. The S-64 Skycrane is making a water drop on the flames in the center of the image. A Skycrane is 18 feet 7 inches high from the wheels on the landing gear to the top of the rotor mast. The pilot made a DIRECT HIT on those flames, meaning the helo is directly over them. So, you can use the helo to get an idea how high the flames are. Do the math.



Fire `n Water - We're near the bottom of Corral Canyon. While the fire blazed behind us, the sun seemed to ignite the ocean as well.
Evacuations
are complete all the way to Point Dume (the rightmost point in the image).
Teams had plenty of non-ambulatory residents, cats, dogs, and horses to worry about too.

(Jim here again) Folks we owe so much to those among us who choose to serve. Whether in an Armed Forces uniform, police blues, or in fire fighter garb, they have stepped up to place their own welfare secondary to ours. And they deserve our continuing gratitude and respect.

Mom told me that when Pearl Harbor was attacked in 1941 her coworkers flocked to the recruiting offices to sign up for military service. That response from "The Greatest Generation" was what we see today from these professionals.

People only do selfless things when there is a higher reason. A parent willingly endangers their own life to protect their child, a friend offers their last ration so that someone else can survive, these are acts of love.
Not just fondness or affection, Love. "Greater love hath no man than this, to give up his life for another."

When I see bravery such as this I'm reminded how important it is for us to have a belief system that extends beyond ourselves. When we trivialize the importance of faith or criticize others for expressing their faith publicly such as offering a blessing at a meal, we reduce the likelihood that someone will, in the future, step up to protect us. If there is no God then this life is all there is. If this is all we've got, then why should anyone put themselves at risk for others?

In this season of Thanksgiving and Holy Days we will all benefit from reviewing our beliefs and expressing our thanks. Let each Christmas Tree, Menorah, Church, Synagogue, Mosque, Nativity Scene, Wrapped Gift and yes even Fire Trucks remind you of the power and importance of faith in our beliefs. We need to not only thank each other more often, but also thank our Creator for the myriad blessings we receive.
Thank you for being my friend and reader and Thank God for this wonderful life.
And once again, thank you to our Fire Fighting friends.

A Sweet Gift for Mom

by Jim Cathcart

Mom deserved a special gift for Christmas, after all in more than 80 years on this Earth she had more than earned my gratitude and unfailing love. I could think of so many reasons to appreciate her besides just her "mom-hood", :-).
She had raised my sister and me with no experience around babies and despite my Dad's job that kept him out of town all week for most of the year. When I was in grammar school she took in my Grandfather and Grandmother as well. Grandfather Cathcart had a stroke that left him unable to talk or move. He was in a hospital bed in our front bedroom for about seven years.

Mom is an amazing person in many other ways too. She left an emotionally abusive stepmother and went out on her own at age 15 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She got a job right away, found a boarding house and made a good life for herself. She served in the Women's Volunteer Army Corps during World War II and traveled to Des Moines, Charleston, Springfield, Massachusetts and ultimately to San Francisco.
She and Dad married upon his return from the war and they settled in Little Rock. That's where I was born in 1946.

Mom's maiden name is Laura Elizabeth Fudge. Yes, really. To make the name even more remarkable, I married Paula Sue Dugger whose mother had the maiden name of Flowers. Fudge and Flowers, what are the odds?

Well, Christmas gifts aren't as simple as they used to be because Mom says she doesn't "need or want anything". She modestly defers our inquiries and just says "give something extra to the grandchildren." Nice, but I'm not falling for it. I still plan to give my Mom a Christmas gift each year. So, I got creative.

I contacted a number of candy companies about producing a special limited run of personalized candies for me. And when Mom received the gift she cried tears of joy.
She said, "every time I look at the candy wrapper I start crying again." Here is what I did.

I created a line of candy called "Laura Elizabeth Fudge." In truth it was chocolate bars and truffles but you get the point. Then I designed the labels to tell the story of her life as if it were a chocolate candy company. Since she was born in 1919, I had the company "founded in 1919". The employees of the company "signed" their names to the label (these were her family members including her parents, siblings, me, my sister Kathy and my wife Paula.)

Here is the label:


And here is the back cover:


In the legend I mentioned her birthplace of Rochelle, Louisiana and praised her sweet nature. Then I had the labels blown up to a larger size and framed in an 8 x 10 frame for her. The production run was small but I produced enough candy to provide her plenty to share with friends and neighbors plus a special stash that I could give to my friends and clients. The entire experience was great fun and surprisingly inexpensive. Most of all, the fun of it was Mom's reaction to the gift.

She thought I had actually formed a candy company in her name. She worried that I had taken a huge risk in a field I knew little about. But my reassurance allayed her fears and she smiled and cried with joy. I get a glow each time I think about this experience. Hopefully, this will stimulate an idea for something you can give to your own special people that will produce similar benefits.

Have a very happy Thanksgiving and a Blessed Christmas Season.
Jim Cathcart

Riding Free - In Praise of Motorcycling

by Jim Cathcart

Since I was a preteen in Little Rock, Arkansas I have been in love with motorcycles. I know, there are dangers and everyone I've met has at least one story about someone who was injured on one. But somewhere in me there is an almost genetic predisposition in favor of motorcycles. I even like seeing the word in print! M-o-t-o-r-c-y-c-l-e. Nice.

Jack Edwards lived just down our street and had a Triumph. It was midnight blue and had loud pipes that all our neighbors hated. But it was music to me. He'd let me watch as he worked on his bike in the driveway and I can still recall the wonderful smell of the engine, leather and petroleum products. I couldn't wait to grow old enough to have one.

When you reached age 13 the state of Arkansas would issue a learners permit for bikes. That Christmas my wonderful parents blessed me with a Harley Davidson "Topper" motorscooter. It had a 165cc engine and an automatic transmission. Top speed was about 50 mph if you were going downhill with a tailwind. But I loved it! It was my ticket to the world.



After acquiring my full license I started the routine of going for daily rides after school and on weekends. I'd ride until I got lost and then find my way home. Risky perhaps, but in the 1960s the risk was low. I discovered virtually every street, road and alley in central Arkansas. Then I got a newspaper route and rode my scooter to deliver the papers. That little vehicle changed my life. Or more accurately, it changed the size of my world.

I wasn't particularly "cool" for riding it. After all, it was almost silent and had no power. But it took me where I wanted to go, even if I didn't yet know where that was. My parents were relieved of the need to shuttle me to and from sports events, movies, school and more. They liked the convenience and Mom, bless her heart, never made me feel that she worried about me while I was out for a ride.

I kept the Topper until High School when it was decidedly un-cool to have a scooter. So, one weekend when something on it broke I relegated it to a corner of the garage and never got it running again. Sorry about that.

Years went by and I always pined for another bike but didn't get one until one day in 1968 the temptation was just too great. I went to Doug Reynold's Suzuki shop, a brand new hole-in-the-wall-sized dealership to kick tires and possibly buy a used small bike.
But when I walked in the door there it was.

No, not another Topper, but "The Rolls Royce of Motorcycles", a BMW R69US! That was the king of the road for folks who didn't like to work on their motorcycles. The Harleys, Indians and Triumphs were way too high-maintenance back then. Doug asked me if I'd like to take it for a ride. Gulp! My heart was in my throat. Me? Ride one of the finest bikes in the world? Me?? Really??

Well, that was a "puppy dog" sale. (When the pet store owner suggests you take the puppy home for the night to see if you want to keep it, you have officially become a puppy owner. Your family names it and it cannot go back to the store.) The same was true for MY new bike. I still remember the price, big at the time, $2010.00. I had to finance it for $60 a month. :-) But that same day I was the proud owner of one of the finest bikes on the road at that time.

Now my world was getting really big. I rode it to Oklahoma, all over Arkansas and occasionally into Tennessee, Texas and Louisiana. If my job had permitted I'd have ridden it all over North America. I kept the bike until late 1970 when I got married and promised my lovely bride that I'd not buy another until first we got a house of our own.

Fast forward almost a generation. We had bought numerous houses and moved to California. My business was my own and life was sweet but, you guessed it, incomplete. One day in 1990 when Paula heard me whimper with jealousy as a motorcycle rode by, she said, "why don't you just go get a motorcycle and get it out of your system?" God bless that woman. It took me almost a day to do so.



I bought a used BMW rode it everywhere within 1,000 miles of home and traded it for another BMW, which I rode to Cody, Wyoming and back. Then I traded for a Honda, then a Kawasaki, a Triumph (yes a Trophy 1200), another Kawasaki, then two Triumphs and today I ride a Yamaha FJR 1300.



Several wonderful experiences have grown out of all those motorcycles. While Jim Jr. was in college in Santa Barbara we lived in San Diego and I'd frequently ride the 220 miles north to pick up Jimmy and take him on a 1,000 mile motorcycle adventure. When Paula and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary she got a new diamond ring and I got 14 days of motorcycling through the Swiss, German, Austrian and Italian Alps with her on the back seat! We loved it so much we repeated it and added France to the itinerary to celebrate our 30th. We've toured New England on a Harley Road King during the changing of the leaves. We toured Colorado, much of California and more. It has been a great way to share some pretty exciting adventures.

I've served on the pit crew of Championship motorcycle drag racer Ricky Gadsen and taken advanced handling skills instruction on Infineon (Sears Point) Raceway and Laguna Seca Raceway. Full speed under the supervision of World SuperBike Champion Reg Pridmore. Yeee Haaa! I've also attended Daytona Bike Week twice but haven't yet made it to Sturgis, SD for their annual event.

In 1968 after a long motorcycle ride I got out my guitar and wrote a song about motorcycling titled "Riding Free". (Lyrics posted below) I didn't publish the song until 2004 but it is recorded and linked here for your enjoyment.
The link takes you to a video interview of me by Selling Power Magazine's publisher, Gerhard Gschwandtner. The song is linked into that clip.

I've been booked for speeches and seminars by Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Kawasaki, BMW and Honda. My hobby has enhanced my business, my marriage and my life. And yes I wear a helmet even in states where the law doesn't require it. I figure I've ridden about 150,000 miles and my worst mishap was a 1995 spill on a country road where I cracked a bone in my wrist and picked up an "ass-fault" tattoo. A few weeks later I was healed and back in the saddle. I'm more careful now but happy to be "riding free" for as long as my mind and body will cooperate.

Here are the lyrics to Riding Free. I hope you've enjoyed this message, and, thank you in advance for resisting the temptation to send me stories of the dangers of motorcycling. Now go for a ride and have a great day!

Riding Free
By Jim Cathcart
Copyright 1968, 2004

I’m riding free, got the highway at my feet,
No place to be and no schedules to meet,
There’s not a thing in the world to tie me down.

The buses pass me by, their destinations on their face,
No names on me Man I’m not going just one place,
I go where I want to be, to any town.

Nothing but my mood to guide me,
I follow the road I like best,
One week I may go to Mexico,
The next I’m headed northwest.

Two wheels below me and open road ahead,
Don’t need much money ‘cause I’m carrying my bed,
I’ll work one day for my bread, then travel on.

Don’t put me down Man I’m doing what I like,
Yes I’m happy when I’m out here on my bike,
I’m seeing the world my own way, come on along.

Nothing but my mood to guide me,
I follow the road I like best,
One week I may go to Ohio,
The next I’m headed southwest.

Ninety miles to Little Rock, my roots and memories,
I’ll pause but new and winding roads are calling me,
My goal’s the ride not the place, I’m riding free.
My goal’s the ride not the place, I’m riding free.

www.cathcart.com

Note: Doug Reynolds Suzuki of Little Rock
is now a very large and successful dealership.
9800 Interstate 30
Little Rock, AR 72209
PH: (501) 562-6229

Free Seminar on Public Speaking

How to Use Public Speaking To Grow Your Success
Public Speaking Seminar
featuring
Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE
Professional Speaker and Bestselling Author

Wednesday, November 14, 2007
1:30p.m - 3:30p.m.
Registration: 1:15pm
California Lutheran University
Lundring Events Center

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED,
no charge to attend
To RSVP, please contact Susan Seale at
(805) 988-0196 ext. 110
or via email at sseale@vccf.org.

In celebration of the
National Speakers Association's
"Spirit of NSA Day"
to honor the 100th birthday of its founder, Cavett Robert,
this event is being cosponsored by
The Ventura County Community Foundation,
Resource Center for Nonprofit Management
and by the
California Lutheran University, School of Business,
Center for Leadership & Values
plus Cathcart Institute, Inc. on behalf of the 101 Leaders Alliance.

How to Use Public Speaking To Grow Your Success
Growing Demand by Growing Your Brand

Nationally Known Professional Speaker shares his Speaking Secrets.
Speaker Hall of Famer and past national president of the National Speakers Association, Jim Cathcart will conduct a FREE seminar on "How to Use Public Speaking to Grow Your Success".

Cathcart, the author of 14 books including the Bestsellers "The Acorn Principle" and Relationship Selling, has delivered over 2,600 paid presentations around the world. Come and learn the techniques that professional speakers use to Capture Attention, Motivate and Inspire, and Incorporate Humor. Discover how to Overcome Fear and Speak with Confidence.

Bring your colleagues and friends to hear this world renowned speaker tell how you can do what he has done.

Jim Cathcart
In professional speaking, Jim Cathcart has done it all!

Past President of NSA, Cavett Award winner, CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame, CSP, Lifetime Achievement Award from NSA of Greater Los Angeles, Toastmasters International Golden Gavel recipient, author of 14 books, countless audio and video products, co-founder of three Institutes plus an online learning corporation. He has delivered over 2,600 professional speeches around the world, earned millions of dollars in speaking fees and more.

He has his own TV show on The Success Training Network, TSTN. And Jim is the author of NSA's professional development system known as "The Professional Competencies". He has been a member of Speakers Roundtable, 20 of the nation's top speakers and authors, since 1986.

Jim joined NSA in 1976 when there were only 200 members (today it has almost 4,000) and has served on virtually every committee and council. In fact, the San Diego NSA Chapter has named its member of the year award "The Jim Cathcart Service Award."

On the personal side, Jim is an avid motorcyclist, having toured Europe, Canada, and the Rocky Mountains on sport touring motorcycles. He has written and recorded songs and performed in clubs nationwide. He lives in Lake Sherwood, California in the mountains above Malibu where he regularly does endurance hiking.

Directions
California Lutheran University
Lundring Event Center
From the 118 Freeway to the 23 South

Exit Olsen Road. Turn Right and Head West. Turn [right] Onto Mountclef Boulevard. [Turn left into the parking lot for the sports complex. Enter the building at the far left corner of the parking lot.]
From Ventura (101) Freeway South

Take Lynn Road Exit. Go North Across the Freeway and Follow Lynn Road to Campus. Turn [left] onto Mountclef Boulevard. [Turn left again into the parking lot and enter the building at the far left corner of the lot.]
From Ventura (101) Freeway North

Take Hwy. 23 North. Exit on Olsen Road. Turn Left and Head West. Turn [right] onto Mountclef Boulevard. [Turn left into the sports complex and enter the building at the far left corner of the parking lot.]

To Register
This event is FREE, but registration is a must!! Space is limited.
This is NOT a promotional seminar to sell you something else. It is a special service offered jointly by Cathcart Institute, Inc., California Lutheran University and the Ventura County Community Foundation to help you become a better communicator.

Enroll now!! Space is limited so only the first responders will be assured a spot at this exciting event. To RSVP, please contact Susan Seale at (805) 988-0196 ext. 110 or via email at sseale@vccf.org.

Ventura County Community Foundation | 1317 Del Norte Road, Suite 150 | Camarillo | CA | 93010

Californian Building Boom Coming Soon

by Jim Cathcart

As my regular readers know, I'm an avid mountain hiker here in the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Highway 101. A few years ago many of our regular trails were ravaged by fires much like the ones that are still smoldering nearby today. In the months following the fires I saw the trails go through the various stages of renewal. It is quite inspiring to observe.

At first there's nothing but ashes and charred remains, but then sprouts emerge and shortly thereafter, flowers. The contrast is striking and encouraging. I saw this same effect once on a motorcycle tour of Yellowstone National Park just after fires had devastated much of the park.

With the President's arrival in San Diego a few minutes ago the rebirth of much of Southern California will begin, even as some are still fighting the fires.
The evacuation of Escondido was lifted moments ago and residents can return to their homes or, sadly, home sites.

Aid centers and resource networks have already sprung up to assist the victims of these fires. Every aspect of our society is reaching out to help in some way. It renews my faith in mankind and especially in America.

On top of all this I received an email this morning with news of the USS New York, a wonderful new ship that was built from the scrap metal of the World Trade Center. Here is a link to the article about it on Snopes.com, the site to check when you wonder about the reliability of an email message. Rebirth and renewal is all around us.


So, the next time you get the impression that all is lost or that evil has prevailed, just remember the line from the movie Jurassic Park, "Life always finds a way."
We are loved and there is a God. Our job is to live our lives fully and give all of ourselves that we can to each other.

God bless you and God bless America.
Jim Cathcart

Qualcomm vs Katrina - how people are dealing with the fire crisis

by Jim Cathcart

San Diego, October 24, 2007
Fires have devastated the area and hundreds of thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes and businesses. This is the worst natural disaster in San Diego's history and much of Southern California is experiencing a similar crisis.

Depending on where in Southern California you live this may be the worst crisis you have had to face. It is certainly worse than the earthquakes and mudslides of recent memory. And, when it is your home or property that is devastated, then the tragedy is at its worst.

Here is a link to the Reuters story on the fires today, and
here is another link to the Resources Available to Help Fire Victims.
Both of these are available from Roger Hedgecock's website. Roger is a national talk show host and former Mayor of San Diego.



Now let's look at what the people are doing in response to this crisis.
Qualcomm Stadium, known for hosting both the SuperBowl and the World Series in recent years, has been made available as the largest of the evacuation centers in the area.
Thousands of evacuees have come there for food, shelter and safety.
Volunteers are abundant. People have come to help distribute supplies, communicate information, serve food, and just be available to help. Businesses have donated goods, government agencies have provided supplies and security personnel.
And the crowded stadium and the acres of packed parking lot are...happy.

Happy? How can people in such a tragedy be happy?
Granted they are not gleeful but neither are they angry and rebellious. They are making the best of a horrible situation. They recognize that everyone who can help is attempting to do so and the fires and wind are beyond anyone's control. Naturally, there are individual exceptions but the general situation is very positive.

Check out this link to ABC News' report on the atmosphere at the venue.
Musicians are performing for the folks, therapists are providing massages, and the community is taking care of its own.

This is not our Federal Government saving us from a tragedy. It is Americans doing what they do. We are helping each other and doing our best to take care of ourselves. We are not waiting for someone to rescue us. We do not demand to be served or even saved. We are just coping and cooperating. That, Ladies and Gentlemen, is America!

Now, contrast this with what happened after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. They had chaos, anger, crime, looting and resources languishing from lack of use. They saw virtually no volunteering from among the victims and thousands of people sat and waited to be rescued without trying to help each other. Again, sure there were individual exceptions but the general situation was very negative.

Why? Was it FEMA? Was it the White House? Was it the Louisiana State Government? No.
The difference in the two scenarios reveals a much deeper origin. The origin was a victim mindset. New Orleans was filled with low income residents who had allowed themselves to become dependent on entitlements. They didn't take initiative, because until the storm hit, they didn't have to. Their mentality was one of being a receiver not a giver.

People say "we allowed them to become that way!" I say, don't be absurd. "We" didn't do anything to cause that. This is America; a country where education is available to everyone, even non-citizens in many cases. This is a place where people are eager to help ambitious and appreciative people who want to lift themselves up. We have agencies, foundations, scholarships, benefactors and teachers who would happily spend extra time helping someone who wanted to grow and improve.

What caused the victim mentality in New Orleans was individuals accepting their "fate" and giving up before even trying. It was parents not holding their children responsible for their choices. It was grandparents not insisting that their offspring go to church or synagogue to develop their faith and integrity. It was teachers allowing kids to leave school before they learned essential skills. It was neighbors not caring about each other or looking after their common interests. And it's not only New Orleans where areas like this are found. These breeding grounds of attitudinal cancer are all around us.

When we allow ourselves to relax our grip on the development of each new generation. When we ignore the importance of a strong belief system. When we deny the importance of others in our lives...we all suffer.

Alexis de Toqueville once said of America that our strength lies in our ability to spontaneously organize around a need and cooperate to solve it. He was right. As a free society we have the ability to choose what we do and who we do it for. But when we start thinking that it is all about us, then we ignore the strength available to us through others.

I need you. And you need me. Nobody makes it through this life alone...even if they try. Culture means common beliefs and interests. It means that we must honor the dignity of others and build integrity in ourselves. If I stop trying to improve then I have cheated all the potential recipients of my good works. If you start thinking only of yourself then sooner or later the world will stop thinking of you.

Qualcomm Stadium or the SuperDome in New Orleans: every day you are choosing the path that leads to one or the other. Please choose the path of responsibility and self improvement. All of us need what you can contribute to the world. And we will thank you generously as you contribute it.

California Fires today Oct. 23, 2007

by Jim Cathcart

Today's news is filled with coverage of the devastation Californians are experiencing from San Diego (near Mexico) to Santa Clarita, (just north of Los Angeles). The area affected by the fires was reported this morning to be 385 square miles and that's not including the fire free areas in the region. Here is a link to some photos of the crisis in San Diego (150 miles south of where I live). These photos were taken by professional photographer, K.C. Alfred. My management team, SpeakersOffice, Inc. based in Carlsbad, near La Costa, had to evacuate their offices and their homes. The people are fine but the property is clearly at risk. Your prayers are welcomed.

As you can see, it is a horrifying mess. But there are good spots too. Thankfully my immediate family has been spared the flames. We live in Ventura County just 45 miles north of LAX airport on the way to Santa Barbara. Our home has been repeatedly coated with ashes and smoke filled the air here yesterday but right now the skies are clear and the wind has slowed considerably. The wind is the fear factor. It makes everything worse, and yesterday it was relentless.

On Sunday the Fire Department's Scooper Planes flew right over our home repeatedly to capture water from Lake Sherwood to use against the Malibu fires just over the hill from here. One of my neighbors, Tom Miller, took these photos outside his home.


I dropped in on the local fire department this morning and spoke with the Chief. I asked what kind of help they needed: volunteers, errand runners, clerical support, or just somebody to do the chores while they focus on fighting fires. He said that thankfully we are not in the path at present and their needs are covered. I left my cell number in case things change.

The coming weeks will reveal just how much our help is needed throughout this area. For now all we can do is stay alert, be ready to help or evacuate as the case may be, and keep our wits about us. This is a time when all other agenda items take second place. Human needs come first. And, please follow the directions of your fire and police personnel, they are striving to protect you and your homes.

We are not separated by gender, age, religion, politics, memberships, race or anything else at times like this. We are all Americans, neighbors, friends and fellow members of the human race. We're in this together so we must be willing to do our part to help everyone. In times like this, please let your local fire departments and public agencies know that you are willing to help. Even if you can't do much physical labor, you can still make phone calls, process information, do online information gathering, call friends to organize volunteer teams, pitch in to handle the simple chores that might keep the fire fighters and emergency personnel from being distracted, and more.

Tomorrow we will get back to business but today we need each other very much.
As Neil Diamond sings in his song "Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show":
"Brothers & Sisters you've got two good hands and when your fellow man is in need, reach out one of those hands, 'cause that's what it's there for. And when you are in need reach that other hand to the Man up Above 'cause that's what He's there for."
Amen, May God watch over all of those who are in need today.

Here is a link to a YouTube performance that will truly inspire you. It lasts through two songs and is well worth the viewing.
In the Spirit of Service,
Jim Cathcart

Optimism vs Pessimism - Cathcart on Video

The DVD and CD program "Window on the Secrets for Success" has just been released by Chesney Communications.

Jim Cathcart is the first featured expert in this video program.
His topic for this brief presentation is "Optimism vs Pessimism."
It is a classic message and you'll love it.
Click here to see it now.
and on YouTube, click here.

This video program includes interviews with numerous top authors and successful business experts. Sample the video and for more simply click through their website to access details and order the program. You can also order it directly from Cathcart Institute, Inc. at www.cathcart.com. Or call us at 800-222-4883.

Between the new TSTN televsion series featuring Jim Cathcart, the various YouTube postings of his speeches, training DVDs and seminars, and the recent video interviews of Jim done by Selling Power Magazine, there is much to see and enjoy.
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In Praise of Mountain Hiking

by Jim Cathcart

Since 2001 I have lived in the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Thousand Oaks, California. As a lifelong fitness enthusiast I was drawn to mountain hiking by a local group called "The Heartbreak Hiking Fools." This good natured group took its name from one of its trails known affectionately, and accurately, as "Heartbreak" trail. They even have their own logo wear due to the generosity of one hiker who is in the uniform business.


I first got fit in my 30s while I lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As a young adult I had always been overweight, in fact at one point in 1975 I weighed 199.5 lbs. On a 5'9" frame that's a lot of weight! Well, 200 lbs was a point I was unwilling to reach so I went on a diet and exercise regimen that removed 52 lbs and many inches from my girth. Mostly I became a jogger and continued to run and do floor exercises for my second 30 years. My weight fluctuated between a low of 148 and a high of 173, a 25 lb range, not bad for three decades.

But in 2001 I had gotten out of shape a bit and so the mountain hiking seemed a good beginning for my fitness plan. Little did I know what "hiking" could become. It seems that the Heartbreak Hikers (HHF) are no ordinary group. Their ages range from the 40s to the high 70s. Most are professionals and many are retired. But when they hit the trails they don't even pause. Note, I did not say rest, I said 'pause'. Their hikes are more like forced marches...uphill.



When the group departs for the Wednesday and Sunday morning hikes (at EXACTLY 7am!) they have two hiking poles each and a timer watch. Every hiker is on a quest to beat their own best time for that day's trail and they literally don't even pause on the three mile uphill trek to the peak. Once they get there all is cordial. There's plenty of humor and they wait for the slower or newer members to arrive. Then the return hike is filled with stories and fun, and even an occasional pause to glance at the beautiful scenery.



During the week many members workout at the gym and some do spinning, pilates, and even triathons. But our real workouts are the hikes. Twice each week they push themselves through all kinds of weather, well OK, California weather, and their fitness levels are truly impressive. (2 hikes a week x 52 weeks x 6 miles roundtrip = 624 miles a year.) The number of infirmities and time off for illness among the group is very low despite most of them being beyond what would normally be considered their "fitness" years.



Here is what I have found about the value of hiking vs other forms of exercise.
1. The trail is always tougher than you are so there is no limit to how strenuous you can make the workout. You can always strive to beat your last "personal best".
2. Hiking uses all the muscles and tendons more than running. The uneven trails, rocks, hills, tree roots, sand, and occasional mud cause you to use every angle your feet, knees, hips and ankles are capable of. The more you use, the stronger and more injury resistant you become. Even your upper body gets a workout by using the two hiking poles.
3. Your balance and hand/foot/eye coordination are improved and tested constantly.
4. The aerobic value of strenuous uphill trail running is enormous.
5. The ability to be outdoors and, with proper clothing, to continue to hike in light rain, wind, cold and heat...causes you to feel truly alive. The beauty of the trails and views is really worth it.
6. The friendships with my fellow hikers has become vitally important to me.



Here are the rules we follow in the Heartbreak Hiking Fools, you might want to form your own group;
1. Everyone is responsible for him or herself. If you don't show up, nobody is going to call you. Nor will we send you a reminder or wake up call.
2. No whining. If you want to complain about something, find another group. We are here to have fun and stay fit.
3. We leave EXACTLY on time. If you arrive at 7am we won't be there. That's when we left for the hike. So meet at the trailhead by 6:59am or hike alone.
4. If you don't want to compete you don't have to. Some just come for the hike and don't really push it, but others are all out for a "win." Hike at your own pace and don't expect others to join you unless they want to.
5. If you bring a guest (and guests are always welcome) then you are responsible for your guest. If they get lost, you go find them. We'll see you at the coffee shop later.
6. Don't expect to impress us. The group is already pretty amazing, so just join in.
(We have rocket scientists, authors, business owners, politicians, marketing consultants, motivational speakers, physicists, sculptors, dentists, accountants, lawyers, pathologists, real estate developers, psychiatrists and financial advisers.)
7. Come to the coffee shop after the hike and celebrate your hike. No reservations, no agendas, no complaints just good clean strenuous fun.

I know, this seems too blunt and uncaring for some folks. That's understood, but it's kind of like The Marines, if you don't want that kind of culture, don't join. Just find a culture that works for your values.



By the way, if you haven't yet read Younger Next Year, by Chris Crowley and Dr. Henry Lodge, then get a copy today. It tells the truth about fitness like no book I've ever read.

I hope to see you on the trails!
In the Spirit of Fitness,
Jim

Chatting with Speaker Newt Gingrich

There is a video clip on YouTube showing former Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich exploring the difference between the part of our world that works, like Federal Express, and the part that doesn't like the government's approach to immigration reform. It's short, amusing and disturbing as well. To find the link just Google "Newt, Fedex" and you'll find the active link.

On October 16, 2007 I attended a lecture by Speaker Gingrich and had the chance to chat with him one on one for a few minutes beforehand. He was gracious and approachable as well as relaxed and fun to be with. This prolific author, consummate political leader and highly credentialed historian gave one of the most relaxed and yet persuasive speeches I've seen in recent years. He has an easy speaking style that encourages active thought. It's clear that he's been a professor for many years because he truly wants you to think, question and learn.

He points out in his book, Winning The Future, that we currently face five real and daunting threats in America.
1. The possibility of Islamic terrorists acquiring and launching nuclear or biological weapons.
2. That God will be driven from public life.
3. That America's sense of patriotism will continue to decline.
4. That our schools will not strengthen to meet the coming competition from China and India.
5. That our aging population will overwhelm the resources of Social Security and Medicare.

Much elaboration can be done on each of these and I'm willing to do so, but for this article I simply want to make you aware of these as priorities for all of us.
Despite any party differences we must address these issues before all others, as a nation, if we are to survive another generation as Americans.

Our enemies are not the type who would be content with territorial victories. They want world domination for their "religion" and they are content to take innocent lives in order to gain it. We must fight them on all fronts with all means until they yield.

Our faith in God gives us a depth of conviction that nonbelievers don't have. We must keep faith as a central element in our society and defend our first amendment right to practice our faith unrestricted by our government and courts. Without faith there is no higher purpose to life or to our country.

Americans who still hold allegiance to their former country are NOT Americans at all. They are foreigners who simply live here. They do not deserve any of our citizen's rights or privileges, just as we don't in their countries. All immigrants must learn to become Americans if they are to stay here. They need to learn our history, our Constitution and our language. If they do not, then in one or two generations we will no longer be America, but rather merely a land of competing languages and allegiances.

We've got to stop tolerating token education. We must demand that our students master their subjects and graduate with honor and dignity. If we don't then our country will become one of the lesser players in the world and our quality of life will decline accordingly.

People take care of their own money when given the chance. We know how to shop for good deals and how to avoid rip offs. This must apply to Social Security. Put people back in charge of their money through private accounts and give them choices. And, stop the government from borrowing Social Security funds. The system cannot endure as it is currently structured. It was built for a world in which the life expectancy was 62 and Social Security paid out starting at 65. It's time for REAL change.

Make sure your candidates agree on these topics and then hold them accountable when in office. We don't have the option to make these lesser priorities. This is America's primary agenda whether it likes it or not. We can endure and thrive but not on the path we are currently traveling.

Respectfully and urgently submitted,
Jim Cathcart

Video Clips of Jim Cathcart's speeches & interviews

Cathcart Institute, Inc.

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Author of The Acorn Principle, Relationship Selling and 11 other books.
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Turnover is evidence of errors in leadership

by Jim Cathcart
copyright 2007, www.cathcart.com

If people are regularly departing from your team then something is wrong with your approach to leadership. How many people have come and gone from you in the past several years?

Am I saying that the problem is you? Not exactly, but if people aren't staying then something is missing. It might be that your compensation package doesn't hold up to the competition or size of the workloads. It might be that situational or geographic issues like long commutes could be the problem. Or it even might be poor selection processes; you just haven't been recruiting the right people.

But more often than not, heavy turnover is a symptom of poor leadership. I know, that hurts to hear. (Just bear in mind that I am not thinking of you personally as I write this.) Now, before your defense mechanisms start claiming, "but I have great motives and I'm a generous boss", or "I work harder and give more than anyone else around here," stay with me for a bit.

Good intentions do not make you a good leader. Great persuasion ability doesn't either. Hard work and personal dedication doesn't make you a good leader. Many things are required, but let's see if you even need to hear all this.

Question: Have you had trouble keeping good people?

If your answer is Yes, then you have a leadership problem.
Now we need to find out where the problem lives.

The Role of a Leader is to become progressively unnecessary.
Read that again.
At first everyone looks to the leader for direction, inspiration and guidance. But if they keep looking to you then you aren't leading, you are managing. Managers have to work indefinitely. Leaders grow their own replacements. They work themselves out of a job by developing the vision, motivation and skills of others.
If you have been "leading" for more than a year and nobody is in place yet to become your ultimate replacement, then changes in your behavior may be in order.

Here are a few thought stimulators to get you started in finding elements to improve.
1. Are your meetings fun, fascinating and full of energy?
2. Do people look forward eagerly to their next meeting with you?
3. Do you look forward eagerly to listening to what your coworkers think?
4. Do you find yourself complaining that others just don't "get it"?
5. When hiring do you look for people with talent or people who agree with you?
6. Do you feel like all the work is on your shoulders and others aren't stepping up?

Why do others not step up and take charge?
There are many reasons. Here are a few: (How many are you guilty of?)
You don't let them lead. You appoint them and then interfere with all their decisions.
They end up with all the work and none of the control. You don't delegate the necessary authority to go with the duties.
You don't celebrate or appreciate others effectively. They feel they are not valued.
They have seen others work hard only to have you change the plans at the last minute, thereby wasting all that effort.
You make decisions on your own and then announce them to the group, instead of seeking their input and approval. When it is "my way or the highway" most people will take to the highway to get away from you.
They don't want to do something just out of obligation or need. They want the joy and satisfaction of doing things that matter and doing them happily.

If you feel that nobody knows or cares as much as you, then you need to spend some serious energy developing the knowledge and caring in others. Otherwise, you will still be alone at the top next year and your team will have left you...again.

Stop the insanity! Change the way you lead. If you can't change then step aside. Life is too short for you to be constantly pressured and unhappy. Besides, you are probably making many others unhappy as well. So, make a change! Step aside and give up the power. Put someone else in charge and then assist (not control, just assist) them as they take the reins.

If you want to stay in charge then get some help to become more effective. Hire a coach or find a mentor. Turn to someone who doesn't fear telling you the truth.
Admit to the team that you see how you have missed the mark, but that you are willing to work differently in order to give everyone a chance to make a difference.

The greatest leaders of all time were people who listened to advisers and admitted their own weaknesses. They sought direction as well as gave it. To be the best leader that you can be you must make job one Telling Yourself the Truth!

Take a look at what is going on today. Ask yourself;
If nothing changes where is this headed?
At what point will there be a BIG problem if we don't change?
How much longer can I avoid telling everyone the whole truth?
What will the effects of that problem be after the initial crisis?
What can we, not I but WE, do about it? Don't try to go it alone.

Use all your strength, call on the people you care about and those who care about you and your "cause". Truly listen to them and consider following their lead instead of only asking them to follow yours.

Also, ask yourself, when is the time for me to step aside and be a supporter instead of "the leader?"
The purpose of your organization is to make life better for the people it serves.
How's that working for you?
If you aren't getting the results you want then now is the time to change the behavior patterns that created your current reality and start some new ones that will generate the outcomes you desire.

God's reply to our fears of causing Global Warming

by Jim Cathcart, 9-9-07

I thought you might enjoy this item I wrote today in reply to one of my colleagues who is concerned that we may be ruining the Earth. No reply sought, I just wanted to share a different point of view from all the news we've been reading. Jim C

Oh arrogant human, God thought as he smiled. What makes you so confident that you can spoil MY plan?
Want to make me laugh? Tell me YOUR plans.
This world is designed to work, even when you don't.
It already knows how to adapt to volcanic eruptions, quakes, tidal waves, huge fires lasting months on end.
It cleans up oil spills even if you don't. It is the ultimate self-renewing resource.
I know what I'm doing. My system works for all elements within it.

How long do you humans live? Want to compare life spans with me? I didn't think so.
Your concerns are heard, and yes, of course I care. You are my children.
But, folks, I'm going to outlive you all. There will be more children and each will go through life's cycles as you have.
Civilizations come and go, continents shift, and (because I intended it this way) the weather patterns constantly change. What I've frozen during one year I might choose to bake in the next. Every inch of the planet will ultimately get its day.
Droughts always follow floods, fires always purge thick growth, species fade from existence and new species replace them.
This ALWAYS works...always, get it?

The problem is perspective. You think only in terms of your own lifespans. You see the world as yours, not mine.
Silly humans. Earths are for God.
You are not able to change my weather, even if all of you agree on a process for doing it. Believe me, it won't happen.
First, you won't ever all agree on anything. That too, is part of the plan. Second. You don't know enough to make the right decisions about things as big as global weather. I'll heat Earth when I choose and cool it too. When you do something that converts some of my elements into other forms you do not change the overall makeup of Earth. You simply processed it into a different form...temporarily.
I'll put it back in the form I want it when I'm ready. You cannot change the amount of carbon on Earth or the size or nature of the planet. Your "pollutants", which I simply call "reformatted elements", are not going to spoil things for me or my Earth.
Now, they may spoil things for YOU but that's not my problem.
So, be responsible, work together, think beyond your generations, and enjoy what I've given you.

Of course, you will benefit from smarter actions and less waste. Sure you will get more from the Earth when you care for it better. After all it is the right thing to do.
But don't ever get the impression that you can damage my world.

What would you do? Set a fire? I do that all the time.
Would you redistribute some element like oil products? I do that too.
Let's see you cause an earthquake or a volcanic eruption. Try changing my atmosphere.
Can't do it can you? Nope not even with nuclear technology. Why? Because that's the way I made it.
My world is smarter than you. It's not just a dumb rock, it is an intelligent living system, an organism just like you.
So, lighten up folks and enjoy the life I've given you.
Oh, and by the way, be nicer to each other.
See you on the other side.
Dad

Inner Circles - the critical players in your organization

by Jim Cathcart
copyright 8-23-2007 All Rights Reserved

Circles, circles everywhere and all of them lead to outcomes.
Every group of people; a business, family, church, school or team has an "Inner Circle". These are the people through whom the major results are achieved. In the White House, in Congress, in Harvard University, in the San Diego Padres and at Google...there are small groups of people without whom the whole enterprise would suffer.

Even small businesses have Inner Circles. It's often Mom & Pop plus the most productive workers. As a sales person or a consultant, once you know who is in the Inner Circle of leadership then you know who to work with to affect major change in the organization.

In war, once you know the Inner Circle of your enemy then taking them out or removing their ability to function well is your key to victory. In sports it is the Inner Circle of certain talented individuals that inspire and lead the rest of the team to the championship. And you have an Inner Circle too. We all do.

Your Inner Circle consists of somewhere between a few and a dozen people. Groups larger than that are no longer "Inner" circles. Consider for a moment how many people you absolutely rely on in order to be productive each day. Regardless of their titles your Circle may contain; assistants, coworkers, your boss, a colleague, a key contact at one of your client companies, a supplier, a mentor or even your spouse. If any of these folks were to go away, your world and your productivity would reflect it right away. That's what I mean by "the people through whom you produce your results."

Take a minute and list the people in your Inner Circle. Keep it to twelve or fewer people. Don't worry if it is only four or five people. Write down their names and their roles or positions in relation to working with or assisting you. Seriously, take some time and write them down right now.

Next, draw a "sociogram", this is a format much like a graph or bar chart in which you put your name in the center and surround yourself with the names of the Inner Circle players. Think of a Hub (you) with spokes leading out to the others in a large wheel-like display. You are the one around whom the Inner Circle is organized and the spoke connecting you to each person represents your relationship with that person. Don't bother connecting them to each other just yet. That's for a later exercise.

Now do an analysis of three things about your Circle.
1. Examine the Mix of talents and viewpoints represented in this group. Is there a variety of complementary talents or does everyone seem to fit the same limited profile?
2. Notice the Individual Contributions each person brings to the team. What special qualities does he or she contribute? And...
3. Assess the state of your Relationship with each person. How well does that specific relationship work for both of you? Are you both committed to the success of the relationship? Do you tell each other the whole truth all of the time? Do you have a clear understanding of what you expect from each other? Do you have clear agreements to help you resolve potential conflicts?

The above analysis may be one of the most important thinking assignments you complete all year. After all these are the major players in your world and when you get everything right in connecting with them...success is imminent.

When every person in the organization is aware of his Inner Circle and then goes to work on improving; the mix, the talents and the relationships with each person...the organization improves almost immediately. After all, what is an organization but a group of people committed to a common cause? When you improve either the people or their relationships or both, you are bound to get overall improvement as well.

Try this exercise with your own Inner Circle and then go back to my earlier article on "Relationship Intelligence". Increasing the Relationship Intelligence of each Inner Circle is the quickest way to improve Teamwork, Productivity, Collaboration, and Innovation.

Relationship Intelligence

by Jim Cathcart
copyright 8-23-2007 all rights reserved

Relationship Intelligence...at Work is the working title of a new book I'm creating with Dr. David Ryback. Here is the premise: Intelligence takes many forms. We've all been familiar with Intelligence Quotient, IQ, and in recent years such concepts as Emotional Intelligence and Social Intelligence have been popularized by Daniel Goleman among others.
We've stopped asking the dysfunctional question "How Smart Are You?" and begun to ask the more useful question, "How Are You Smart?" There are multiple "smarts" as Howard Gardner, Robert Sternberg and Thomas Armstrong have shown us in their books: Frames of Mind, The Triarchic Mind and Seven Kinds of Smart, plus their subsequent works. We now accept such concepts as: Intellectual Bandwidth, Physical Intelligence, Interpersonal Intelligence, Musical Intelligence, and more.

I've found, in my work with over 2,600 audiences over the past 30 years of teaching, consulting and lecturing, that there is also such a thing as "Relationship Intelligence". This is the capacity for understanding and operating successfully within the context of a multitude of human relationships. Individuals with a high Relationship Intelligence (RI) have much greater success in all types of dealings because they see beyond the momentary human interactions to the desired outcomes of the relationships. This is not just "people skills", it is understanding human interaction within the context of continuing communication and commerce.
It is, as I say in my works on Relationship Selling (tm), seeing Relationships as ASSETS and managing them accordingly.

The business community has come to embrace this concept more and more each year. One tool that has helped in this respect is CRM software. Customer Relationship Management systems have become so commonplace that an entire subculture has grown up around them. They now have international conventions strictly for the exploration of concepts and practices that establish, expand and sustain relationships over time.
What used to be simply a Rolodex of information, or a "data base" has now become a complex system among systems for keeping people connected. We've advanced into understanding and anticipating people's needs and interests so that it is today virtually a science.

Here is The RI Formula (c): Relationship Intelligence equals Awareness Factor times Communication Skill over Desired Outcome.

RI = AF x CS / DO

The "Awareness Factor" consists of reading people and reading situations, in other words: Emotional Awareness and Context Awareness plus Self Awareness.
AF = EA + CA + SA.
"Communication Skill" as used here consists of self presentation (self expression) and adaptability quotient. Adaptability Quotient measures one's capacity for adapting to differences in people and changes in circumstances. CS = SP + AQ.
All of this is meaningless until you factor in the Desired Outcome.
A relationship with no desired outcome is not a relationship at all. It is simply a momentary exchange between people. Add a desired outcome; such as a business agreement and suddenly the expectations and requirements on both parties reach a much higher level.

For example: when two people make eye contact in a hotel lobby (in the USA) it is natural for them to smile, say "hello" or acknowledge each other in some way. That is not a relationship. Assuming they ride together on the elevator and exchange comments on the weather, they are still simply in "transaction mode" re: each other. But let's assume that they soon discover that they are both headed for a boardroom wherein they will be introduced to each other and engaged in a discussion of a new business agreement, then a relationship develops.
Once they make this discovery their dialogue will take on a new dimension. They will become significantly more interested in each other. They will listen more carefully, interact more intentionally and take the entire experience more seriously. This is because they are now "invested" in the relationship. Meaning, if it goes well they stand to gain something and if not they stand to lose something.
In a business scenario this usually revolves around money and in a social scenario it revolves around feelings.

The more Relationship Intelligent each party is the more likely the relationships will be successful. If one is Emotionally Aware, meaning they understand feelings and the factors that affect feelings, then they'll tend to be more sensitive to others and better at tact, diplomacy, persuasion, etc.
If they are Context Aware then they will understand that the situation is part of the relationship. Dealing with a CEO is not the same as dealing with a receptionist. Dealing with an urgent situation is not the same as dealing with a routine one. And so on.
To be Self Aware means to know how you come across to others and to understand what is going on within oneself. If you don't know you, then chances are that you don't understand others very well either. It is vital to "know thyself" as Socrates told us. This leads to self acceptance and self improvement.

Assuming a high Awareness Factor, the next category is Communication Skill. Just knowing is not enough, people must also be able to USE their knowledge to achieve an outcome. Communication Skill is Self Presentation, the ability to effectively express one's ideas and listen well to responses, plus Adaptability Quotient. AQ is the combination of knowing how to communicate differently with different people and knowing how to adapt to changing situations. One might be great at getting along with people of all types but unable to cope with change and consequently they'd be handicapped in that relationship. Likewise the reverse, we can be good at adapting to change but inflexible in dealing with people and encounter many obstacles to success.

All of these are learn-able skills. You can learn to notice more and thereby increase your awareness. You can learn to listen well and communicate clearly. You can learn to read people and know how to customize your responses to the way each person would best receive your communication. Also you can learn to cope with and adapt to change.

What Relationship Intelligence does, is, for the first time, it puts all of these elements into context. It shows how they interact and combine in ways that will achieve the Desired Outcome.

The organizing factor here is the Desired Outcome. One simple way to make your relationships more productive today is simply to restate and agree upon the Desired Outcome at the beginning of each dealing. Just say, "To put today's discussion in context let's review what we are hoping to achieve through our dealings." Then as each person states and clarifies their hopes and goals, you increase the focus and eliminate much of the irrelevant discussion.

Watch for more on this topic and please let me know your own interpretations of this message. This message is available as a speech or seminar and I'll happily work with your organization to increase the RI of your people and your departments. Stay tuned!
In Spirit of Growth,
Jim Cathcart
www.relationshipintelligenceatwork.com

The World & What We Are Doing With It

by Jim Cathcart

Situation: most people don't seem to live very much.
They work, they survive, they amuse themselves, but they die without having ever fully lived. Current statistics on heart disease, obesity, hours of TV watched daily and weekly, lack of exercise, etc. are quite distressing.

Likewise there has been a decline in intellectual growth. Schools have de-emphasized excellence in academic achievement and focused too much on social "comfort", trying to assure that nobody is offended or caused to feel inadequate. In doing so they have assured that many will in fact become inadequate when it comes to being able to direct and control their own lives.

Spiritually there has been a relaxation of standards as well. Character, once the cornerstone of education, is now relegated to a catch-all category that places more emphasis on "honoring diversity" than it does on doing the right thing. Integrity has given way to conformity and non-offensiveness. We have come to view the mere mention of religion or God to be an intrusion on the sensibilities of the nonbelievers.

Our connection with nature seems to still be there but between speed tourism and X games sports there isn't much sense of presence in the setting or quiet enjoyment of nature. "Nice river, I wonder if it has any number 5 rapids. Let's kayak it!" Naturally there is a place for bungee jumping and skydiving in life, but it's place number two or three, not the first place.

Socially we seem to be comparatively better off. We do, as a society, get together a lot. Unfortunately, much of it centers around watching TV or movies more than interacting. The social protocols of greeting cards, thank you notes, hostess gifts, and the like have been relegated to the more sophisticated and older segments of society.
As we urbanize more we also desensitize too. We often fear our fellow citizens as potential criminals and rage against them for the slightest misstep, as in "road rage."
We have become a society of people who often live near each other without ever becoming "neighbors." Many of us cannot name the families that live on either side of us or across the street. More "community" or "communing" is needed among us.
Electronically we seem addicted to staying connected. We disassociate from our surroundings while talking on the cell phone or sending instant messages. And those we are talking with are often the same people we just left a few minutes before. We now consider cell phones a necessity and a vital safety tool instead of a new convenience.

Financially we seem to be split between the entrepreneurs and the employees. The latter often focus on entitlements and use the legal system as a way to "get even" for perceived injustice or sometimes even mere inconveniences. Instead of finding meaning in their work and resolving problems as a part of life, they look for big rewards to pay for minor setbacks.

Nor are we a particularly emotionally mature society. We see frequent examples of our leaders behaving as rude, spoiled children. The press shows our leaders defaming our president and other top officials. City council and school board meetings often disintegrate into verbal slugfests. Insults and accusations of depravity, dishonesty, etc. are commonplace.

The media is at the core of our dilemma. We have permitted it to become a source of indignation rather than information and inspiration. The people who drive the media seem addicted to a degenerate view of life. They assume that sexual predators are all around us, and that everyone who makes a mistake or a bad decision deserves to be fired or put in prison. They take stories that are sensational (usually about a media personality) and fill the airways with minute by minute updates as if it mattered to the rest of us. They insist on our right to know, even on things we have no desire or need to know. And they lie. Many big stories that are believed by many yet today, were disproven completely many years ago.

On the positive side: we know more and have access to more than ever in human history. We CAN live more fully and effectively, we just haven't done so very often.

Healthcare is the best ever. And more people have access to it than ever. Government programs and insurance coverage provides access to amazing scientific technology never before seen by middle income people.
Health information is the best ever too. More doctors are now treating patients instead of diseases. One doctor in Oklahoma had a "shingle" that read "Dr. Jane Doe, Women's Diseases". Wouldn't you prefer to go to one who focused on "Women's Health"? Wellness, fitness, nutrition, studies by the Heart Assn, Cancer Society, and others have informed us as never before. There are wellness centers, resorts, fitness centers, personal trainers, American Council on Exercise, walks and marathons for charity, climbing walls, pilates classes, spinning, jazzercize, stretching classes, and dance exercise. On TV Dancing With The Stars has made us aware of the fun and beauty of performance dancing, and shown how much fitness it requires.

Learning is the best in history. Learning Annex, Phoenix University, Online Education, and other forms of adult learning abound. Video Professor shows us how to easily master the use of our computers. There are step by step self directed courses on Outlook, Excel, Word, Windows, etc.

The internet has become the neighborhood for many of us. It is the new main street of our village and the Mom & Pop stores of the past are now browsed via our computer 24x7. Our society is changing dramatically.

We can start a dialogue online today and be connected with people of similar interests in India, China, Europe and Canada within 24 hours.
And the information is FREE!

We can learn how to solve a problem by going online while the problem is still occurring! Emergency needs are met instantly in many cases.
People can get good guidance financially, interpersonally, psychologically, and scientifically in no time.
The answers are there for us, all of us. The internet doesn't discriminate. It doesn't care.
Anyone can find a way to connect with anyone else in the world in a short period of time.

We have appliances and conveniences never before known to mankind. Our interstates have live updates posted on huge signs. GPS systems show us where to go and when. Satellites send us hourly weather photos and we can Mapquest our way to anything, and even see an aerial photo of someone's home or office. Our homes are intelligent now as are our cars and offices. Our laptops and hand held computers and phones give us possibilities never before seen or even suspected by most of us.

And every human record has been and continues to be broken by someone new.
Grocery stores are filled with fresh foods from all over the world. And health standards assure the safety of the foods. Exceptions are corrected rapidly. Yet still many people have diets consisting of 90% of the same foods they always ate. The abundance around them goes unnoticed by many.
Bookstores are filled with answers, solutions, stories, facts, and fun for all ages. Affordably.
TV provides a gateway to the world for all of us. We can electronically visit any place on earth. And we can often go there too. Travel companies have made global travel affordable to many. Yet there are still people who have never boarded an airplane or left the city they live in. Potential is immense for all of us.

So, why should someone learn how to live more fully? Because that is their genetic assignment.
The goal of all living things is to live more fully. To be fruitful and multiply, to thrive, to grow, to expand, and to do.
Emerson said, "Desire...is possibility, seeking expression."
Christ said, "I am come that they would have life. And have it more abundantly."

Happiness is best found, not in momentary amusements, but in meaningful achievement. It's not the sugar that gives us joy, but the protein.
When we do things that have meaning, when we love, live, serve and savor, we experience joy.
That can never come from a bottle or a pill or a stolen reward. It only comes from Really Living!