I now write with that sense of urgency to get what’s inside of me ….I write because I have learned from the mistakes and mishaps of others.
I Write Because….
I Write Because….
Tag: discover
Boost Book Sales This Holiday Season: Strategies for Authors
Writing a book without promoting it is like waving to someone in a dark room. You know what you have done but nobody else does ~ Madi Pred
Publish and Run? ️Books don’t just sell themselves, authors promote and readers read, review and recommend.
Join us to learn tips to Get your book noticed—and sold—this holiday season! At this event, authors will learn practical strategies to refresh their brand, promote their books, and connect with readers during the busiest shopping time of the year. Whether you’re self-published or traditionally published, you’ll leave with actionable tips to increase visibility, drive holiday sales, and make your book a perfect gift pick!
Facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron, President of Writers Group of South Florida
🗓️Saturday, September 6th
11:00am – 12:30 pm
💳Hosted by:
WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
8601 W. Broward Blvd,
Plantation FL 33324
®️Register on Broward Public Library
Or Use QR code
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6 Thinking Traps Holding You Back
You can’t grow without letting go. ~Unknown
Gaps in your thinking traps your personal, business, or career Growth. Here are 6 reasons.
6 Reasons Your Thinking Traps Your Growth
- The Knowledge Gap: I don’t know how to grow
- The timing Gap: It’s not the Right time
- The Mistake Gap: I’m afraid of making mistakes
- The Perfectionist Gap: I have to find the best way before I start
- The lack of Inspiration Gap: I don’t feel like doing it
- The Comparison Gap: Others are better than me
Which one, two or more do you identify with? Think about it and share. We can’t wait to hear.
Cheers!
Photo by Frank K on Pexels.com
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August Birthday Celebration: Gifts of Personal Growth
Growth is the best gift you can give yourself
August birth month celebration because Growth is the best gift you can give yourself. August is my birth month – and that means YOU get the presents! Whether you’re a past client, a friend, or someone ready to take your next big step, here’s how you can join the celebration.
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That Wretched Performance Improvement Plan As Leadership Changes
THAT WRETCHED PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT PLAN
It’s a devil. I tell you it’s the devil! You work hard. Achieve great results and are applauded for your contribution.
Then a change in leadership! Things go haywire. Goals are thwarted. Messages are confusing. Leaders don’t explain. Midst the changes, the transition in process becomes the focus backed by mixed signals.
Then comes the inevitable performance drop. A lack of clarity, missed communication. Performance improvement plan rears its ugly head. A strong performer, an all star becomes the targeted.
Where did things go wrong?
Ever experienced it? Let’s talk.
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5 Leadership Lessons from Great Teachers
Dead Poets Society
Clarity builds trust and momentum
Summer is almost over and it’s time to make all those back-to-school plans. As we make those plans, lets pause for a minute. Think of a teacher or two who made a difference in your life. Personally, as I age, I think about those teaching experiences and the effect they had on my leadership journey. As I look back, I think of society’s great teachers like Erin Gruwell, Maria Montessori, and the fictional Mr. Keating (Dead Poets Society).
Here are 5 lessons leaders can learn from great teachers.
1.Clarity is Powerful
Teachers break down complex topics into simple, digestible pieces.
Leaders must do the same—clearly communicate vision, expectations, and feedback so everyone understands what success looks like.
Lesson: Say less, mean more. Clarity builds trust and momentum.
2. Patience Enables Progress
Teachers know learning takes time and that growth isn’t always linear.
Leaders should extend grace and patience during times of transition, failure, or new learning curves—whether with teams or themselves.
Lesson: Progress often looks like repetition before results.
3. Individual Strengths Matter
Great teachers recognize that not every student learns the same way.
Great leaders acknowledge that not every employee works, leads, or grows the same. They tailor support, roles, and recognition accordingly.
Lesson: Personalize your leadership to bring out the best in each person.
4. Structure Creates Freedom
Teachers use routines and structure to create a safe space for creativity and exploration.
Leaders who implement clear systems give their teams the confidence and autonomy to take initiative.
Lesson: Strong frameworks unlock innovative thinking.
5. Passion Inspires Performance
Teachers who genuinely care spark curiosity and motivation.
Leaders who lead with purpose, authenticity, and heart cultivate higher engagement and loyalty.
Lesson: When you model passion, people give their best
As school begins its opening session, the road becomes a task / lesson plan in and of itself. What are your thoughts on the top five lessons? Anything missing that you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.
Don’t forget to connect if you would like to discuss your own leadership growth journey.
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Jamaica’s Port Royal, A Summer Must Visit
A Port Royal Tale
When most people think of Jamaica, they think of white sandy beaches and tons of fun in the sun. Yes indeed! It’s all that! And if you’ve never been, you should!
But the island is more than that. It’s filled with rich history. A land full of learning. Oh yes, Learning comes in different forms. To understand the future you have to look back.
To understand the future, you have to look back.
After Calabash Literary Festival, I visited Port Royal, the historical site tagging along with my girls. A visit I thought ‘boring’ but agreed to go. My older daughter wanted her boys to learn about the land of her birth.
Boy was I in for a surprise! The rich history that existed in that place was unfathomable. Now that I’m older, I was able to connect the dots. Here’s a brief overview.
Canons and Pirates
Initially inhabited by Pirates, canons were evident everywhere. Captain’s quarters provided full length windows showing 360-degree visuals of views from the Caribbean Sea. This was a way to prepare for potential battle while enhancing supervision from all corners.
Giddy House
Giddy House was named for the feeling visitors get when they try to stand straight inside. It was an artillery house that stored defense items. Giddy house was struck by an earthquake in 1907 and partially sank.
Trees And Secret Spots
Hundred-year-old trees provided way more than shelter. Their magnificence can’t be missed.
Secret spots were noticeable everywhere. All conducive to the life of a pirate to protect, attack, and surprise.
Earthquake’s Effects
Sadly, Port Royal suffered the major earthquake. A natural disaster that sunk the area leaving remnants of what once was.
The sea’s backdrop midst the sun’s heat, was nothing compared to the learning gleaned. Our family walked away with rich learning of stories told and untold.
Fish Sealed Experience
A sumptuous meal of fish and festival at nearby restaurant sealed the simple yet remarkable experience.
Plan a visit. I hear the area is now a point of renovated focus for the beautiful island of Jamaica.
Cheers!
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5 Great Teachers—Real and Iconic—Who’ve Made a Lasting Impact
What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments but what is engraved in the lives of others
Pericles
Behind every great leader is a story of someone who taught them how to think, not what to think. Whether in classrooms, communities, or through powerful stories, teachers like Anne Sullivan, Jaime Escalante, Erin Gruwell, Maria Montessori, and even the fictional Mr. Keating from Dead Poets Society have left lasting legacies. They did not just impart knowledge, but they also unlocked human potential. Their bold approaches, deep empathy, and unwavering belief in those they taught offer rich leadership lessons for anyone seeking to inspire, elevate, and transform others.
1. Anne Sullivan – Teacher of Helen Keller
Why she matters: Sullivan’s unshakable belief in Helen’s potential shows the power of persistence, adaptive teaching, and emotional intelligence.
Leadership lesson: Believe in others, even when they can’t yet believe in themselves.
2. Jaime Escalante – Math Teacher, ‘Stand and Deliver‘
Why he matters: Taught AP Calculus in a struggling inner-city school, proving that high expectations and dedication can change lives.
Leadership lesson: Set the bar high and show people they can reach it.
3. Erin Gruwell – English Teacher, “Freedom Writers”
- Why she matters: Helped under-served students find their voices through journaling and literature.
- Leadership lesson: Create a safe culture for expression and transformation.
4. Maria Montessori – Founder of the Montessori Method
Why she matters: Revolutionized education by emphasizing self-directed learning, observation, and individual strengths.
Leadership lesson: Foster autonomy and trust people to grow when given the right environment.
5. Mr. Keating – Fictional Teacher, “Dead Poets Society”
Why he matters: Though fictional, Mr. Keating represents the kind of leader who challenges others to think differently, embrace risk, and “seize the day.”
Leadership lesson: Inspire people to think for themselves and lead with courage.
Which iconic teacher has made a lasting impression on you as a leader? Do share. We would love to hear.
Cheers!
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What’s The Perfect Door Prize? 21 Gift Ideas for Networking Events That Shine
Show up. Let yourself be seen. ~Brene Brown
What’s a networking event without door prizes? Boring (smile). So, event organizers encourage gifts. They are a simple yet powerful way to boost engagement, excitement, and attendance at networking events. They create a sense of the anticipation and fun, making the event more memorable for participants. Door prizes also encourage people to arrive on time, stay longer, and interact more freely with others. Besides entertainment, they offer a subtle marketing opportunity for sponsors, hosts, or businesses to showcase their products or services in a positive light.
The PSL Business Club asked the question: “What is the Perfect door prize to give away at networking events?” Members chimed in. Some suggested giving what you would like to receive. Others suggested giving away high-end gifts that will make you the talk of the event. Gift these over several periods and you’re sure to leave a lasting memory. Here I share key gift ideas extracted as members chimed in.
Gifts That Shine
- Wellness bundle energy drinks
- Journal, fun pen, small devotional or motivational card set
- Cute mugs which says “let’s connect over coffee”
- Pair a small gift care ($10-$15) with a handwritten note or business card enclosing a product sample
- Branded item that’s actually helpful
- Gift cards to local restaurants.
- Something useful like Coffee gift cards
- Wine or Vodka
- Dark chocolate and a gift card or voucher to try branded services
- Cool shirt
- Stanley or Yeti cup
- Gift baskets
- Branded swag bundle from the host company
- Branded items or one/two from local businesses or gift certificates
- Candy
- Homemade cookies
- Hand-painted items
- Chocolates from a chocolatier
- Beach accessories
- Fun items that’s non-business related
- Dot card… to make sharing information easier at networking event
High-End Gifts
Higher end gifts creates a lasting memory of your brand. Such gifts are:
- Massage or Spa packages
- Weekend getaway at hotel
- Dinner for two at a high-end/classy restaurant
- Tickets to a concert/play
There you have it! Here’s hoping it takes the guess work out of your gift giving when attending your next event.
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The Pain of Not Embracing Coaching
Innovation Distinguishes. A group of cross-cultural leaders gathered together to discuss the Cultural Undervaluing of Professional Coaching. Education is a crucial pillar of development, but it is not the full structure. Professional coaching, especially in career planning, mindset growth, and personal branding, is often seen as optional, extravagant, or even unnecessary.
Chris, Maxine, and I, focused on The Pain of Not Embracing Coaching. It has many effects. Here are a few:
Underdeveloped Potential
Talented individuals stay stuck in survival mode. They fail to unlock their genius because no one helps them think strategically about their growth.
Career Plateau
Professionals with great resumes stall out due to poor networking, weak positioning, or self-limiting beliefs.
Global Irrelevance
In our rapidly changing world where soft skills, emotional intelligence, and AI adaptability are premium assets, people fall behind.
Silent Suffering
Many carry silent frustrations; “I’m better than this, but I don’t know how to rise.” Coaching could be the very bridge out of that quiet despair.
Join the conversation. Let’s hear your thoughts.
Rather a private chat? Chat me now.
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The Story Behind Success Strategies (And What’s Coming Next …
I love to write! It’s a passion that began during my primary education years. I reflect on those early years. Back then, my uncle (an educator and school principal), would gift me with a book on birthdays and Christmas holidays. This was his custom instead of the usual and more preferential ‘toys’. Though disappointed then, I would dive into the books reading for hours.
As life progressed and blogging became a thing, I created my first blog A Moment With Shells in 2010. Later, on completion on my postgraduate education, I formalized this blog titled Successful Leaders to share my passion. It focused on empowering developing leaders through personal growth, leadership development, and success strategies.
That was a over a decade ago. Funny how time flies when you’re having fun!
Here’s an overview of my efforts to create articles, writings, or gleanings. The idea was to uplift, encourage subscribers and visitors under the headings listed.
Goal Setting & Achievement
The blog emphasizes the importance of setting clear, actionable goals. It encourages readers to commit to their objectives, keep them visible, and seek accountability to stay on track. Inspirational quotes from figures like Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins are used to motivate readers to design their own life plans and persist in their pursuits.
Discovering Purpose & Passion
Articles guide readers in uncovering their life purpose by reflecting on personal experiences, childhood interests, and unique talents. Techniques such as visualization, journaling, and seeking feedback from friends are recommended to help individuals find fulfillment and direction.
Stress Management & Work Life Balance
The website offers strategies for managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance. It highlights the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, seeking professional support, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being.
Embracing Change & Personal Growth
Recognizing when it’s time for change is a recurring theme. Writings discuss signs that indicate the need for a new direction and encourages readers to take proactive steps toward personal development. It also emphasizes the courage required to make significant life changes.
Writing, Publishing & Legacy Building
For aspiring authors, the site provides insights into the publishing process, including self-publishing and audiobook production. It also encourages writers to reflect on their life experiences and consider the legacy they wish to leave through their work.
Overall, Successful Leaders serves as a resource for individuals seeking inspiration and practical advice on personal development, leadership, career change and achieving success in various aspects of life.
Subscribe Now! Get on Board
Subscribe to keep updated on upcoming new and exciting developments. Have you been a follower? If so, how long and how have you benefited? Do share, we would love to hear!
Cheers!
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Top 12 Places to Donate Your Books
With so many books to choose from, you’ll have the hard part of deciding which one to donate.
On Instagram I shared the hard task of purging my books. I have a million with little or no storage space. But what happened was…. During my purge, I ended up reading and re-claiming books.
I decided to share my work (purge in process), and an interested person asked, “where can you donate books?” I responded briefly but decided to post more here on the blog.
Popular and Unique Places to Donate Books
Local Donation Options
- Public Libraries
- Many libraries accept gently used books for their collections or book sales.
- Call ahead—they often have specific donation days or guidelines.
- Schools & Colleges
- Especially helpful for children’s books, young adult novels, and textbooks.
- Contact local principals, librarians, or teachers to ask if they need donations.
- Community Centers / YMCA / Local Clubs
- Often accept books for literacy programs, tutoring, or community libraries.
- Hospitals & Nursing Homes
- They may accept clean, gently used books for waiting rooms or patient use.
- Churches / Faith-Based Organizations
- Great place to donate devotionals, spiritual books, or children’s materials.
Charitable Organizations
- Goodwill or Salvation Army
- Accepts a wide range of books. Proceeds support their employment programs.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores
- Some locations take books to sell in support of housing projects.
- Books for Africa / Books Through Bars / Better World Books
- Organizations that distribute books to under-served communities locally or globally.
- Little Free Library
- Find a nearby box via littlefreelibrary.org and drop books off for community sharing.
Online / Specialized Options
- Freecycle.org / Buy Nothing Groups (Facebook)
- Offer books locally for free and connect with those who want them.
- Local Prison Programs
- Many prisons accept paperback books only. Check with local chaplains or nonprofits.
- Book Drives / Literacy Nonprofits
- Check with local literacy organizations or Rotary Clubs—they may be running book drives.
