Tag: goals

Life Or Lipstick?

You are just one decision from a totally different life. ~Wilfred A. Peterson

Life or lipstick? Silly question. I was driving when I looked in the mirror and saw ‘dry lips’. If you know me well, I don’t like to go anywhere without my lipstick or some color on my lips.

Immediately I began rummaging in my handbag. One hand on the steering wheel and the other attempting to do a deep dive (women’s handbag).

Suddenly I realized my foolery and said to myself life or lipstick? That immediately put things in perspective.

Haven’t we all made some decisions that when we look back at the short term benefits did not make any sense?

Sometimes you make the right decision. Sometimes you make the decision, right. ~ Phillip C. McGraw

Life Choices

  • Why would I choose lipstick over my life?
  • Why would you quit a job without having another source of income?
  • Why would you stay in a relationship that’s harmful? After all you’re not even married?
  • Why would you start a business without a plan? Without capital?
  • Why would your health not be considered during food consumption

We could go on and on. Let’s choose to be wise about the decisions we make and their effect on life.

The quality of your life is built on the quality of your decisions

Have an important decision to make? Think it over closely. Weigh the pros and cons. Talk it over with a confidante or leadership coach.

Cheers!

Thriving After Graduation: How To Launch Your Career In An Uncertain World

I have found that nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. Fall forward… never be discouraged. Never look back. Give everything you’ve got. And when you fall throughout life, fall forward.

Denzel Washington

Just graduated and feeling unsure about your next steps? You’re not alone. In a world of economic shifts, global challenges, and evolving job markets, launching your career can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.

In this video titled Thriving After Graduation: How to Launch Your Career in an Uncertain World, you’ll learn:

✅ How to clarify your purpose and career direction

✅ Practical strategies to stand out in a competitive job market

✅ Mindset shifts to build resilience and confidence

✅ Tips to navigate uncertainty and still move forward with clarity

Whether you’re still job hunting, considering grad school, or feeling stuck, this video will give you actionable steps to take control of your future.

💡 Don’t just survive — thrive after graduation.

Give Her the Gift of Growth This Mother’s Day

Subscribe to continue reading

Subscribe to get access to the rest of this post and other subscriber-only content.

From Manuscript to Bestseller: Unleash Your Publishing Potential

If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.

Martin Luther

Listen to the recording here

Are you a writer with a story burning to be told, but feeling overwhelmed by the traditional publishing maze? Listen to this electrifying workshop facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron on behalf of Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library. The tips and tricks will transform your publishing dreams from wishful thinking to strategic action.

In this game-changing discussion, you’ll discover the exact blueprint successful self-published authors use to launch their books, build their audience, and generate real income. We’ll pull back the curtain on the traditional vs self-publishing industry, revealing insider strategies that most writers never learn—from choosing the right platforms and mastering digital formatting to marketing techniques that actually sell books. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to take control of your publishing journey, this session promises to equip you with practical, immediately actionable insights. Stop waiting for someone else to validate your story. Listen and Learn how to become the author you’ve always dreamed of being—on your own terms, with your own power. Don’t miss your chance to revolutionize your writing career.

Key Insights: Publishing Questions from Authors You Must Know

Many questions were asked throughout the presentation. Here are a 14.

  1. Should you use Ai for Book cover designs?
  2. Are authors required to let readers know that you used Ai?
  3. What is the full marketing potential for a book?
  4. How do you translate a book into another language?
  5. How do you negotiate speaking fees for your book?
  6. Are there any supporting groups to guide on how to format books on KDP?
  7. How can you hire someone to help with publishing?
  8. I’m doing away with writing the Foreword or comments on back of book. What’s the trend?
  9. Do you have resources to look for the audiobooks?
  10. How much can editors charge for beginner writers?
  11. How do you copyright a book?
  12. How do you find someone to edit your work?
  13. How can I get more exposure for sales other than amazon?
  14. Do I have to be a published author to be an editor?

If you’re interested in publishing your book, listen to the presentation and accompanying responses. If you need help, we are passionate about publishing. Reach out for help today and realize your publishing dream!

Happy Writing!

Monetize Your Writing Skills: 10 Proven Methods

Before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn. Before you invest, investigate. Before you criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try. Before you retire, save. Before you die, give. ~William Arthur Ward

Are you a writer living from paycheck to paycheck? Do you want to take that dream vacation but your pocket dictates otherwise? You may just want to purchase that long desired goal but can’t seem to come up with the funds. Well, why not try to boost your income creatively? Here are 10 methods that can turn your talent into money in a flash (legally of course – yikes)!

1.Freelance Writing Platforms

Sign up for sites like:

  • Upwork
  • Fiverr
  • Freelancer
  • PeoplePerHour
    Start with blog posts, bios, product descriptions, or email copy. Quick turnaround = faster pay.

2. Offer Resume & Cover Letter Services

Tons of people need help polishing their resumes. You can charge $50–$200+ depending on your expertise.

3. Sell Digital Products

  • Create and sell templates (journals, planners, ebook templates) on Etsy or Gumroad.
  • If you’ve already written a book, turn it into a workbook or checklist.

4. Pitch Articles

Submit articles to platforms that pay per piece:

  • Medium (via Partner Program)
  • Narratively
  • The Bold Italic
  • Listverse
  • Cracked Some pay $100+ for accepted content.

5. GHOSTWRITING

Offer ghostwriting for blog posts, social media captions, or even eBooks. It’s in high demand, especially for coaches and small businesses.

6. Edit or Proofread

Writers are great editors! Offer fast-turnaround proofreading on Fiverr or Facebook groups.

7. Write LinkedIn Profiles or Bios

Professionals always need help optimizing their online presence.

8. Transcribe Audio for Creators or Podcasters

Great for fast typers. Websites like Rev or TranscribeMe pay per audio minute.

9. Offer Email Newsletter Setup / Writing

Many small biz owners want to start newsletters but don’t know where to begin.

10. Monetize a Blog or Substack Fast

Offer a mix of free content and a paid tier with extra goodies (writing tips, coaching, behind-the-scenes, etc.).

Did any of the above spark your interest to boost your earning potential? Any missing that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Top 8 Audiobook Publishers You Should Know

Listening to the dulcet tones of a familiar voice is an appealing way to work our way through those books we’ve always meant to get around to, but haven’t.– Clare Thorp

You have written your book! Took it a step further and did the audiobook. Now what do you do? How do you get it into the hands of listeners? The options listed may help.

1. Audible (an Amazon company)

  • What they do: Industry leader in audiobook publishing and distribution.
  • Also produces: Audible Originals (exclusive content).
  • Website: audible.com

2. Tantor Media

  • What they do: Full-service audiobook publisher with a wide range of genres.
  • Known for: High-quality production and professional narration.
  • Website: tantor.com

3. Podium Audio

  • Focus: Sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller genres.
  • Notable for: Discovering and promoting indie authors with huge success (e.g., The Martian by Andy Weir).
  • Website: podiumaudio.com

4. RBmedia

  • What they do: One of the largest audiobook publishers globally.
  • Imprints include: Recorded Books, HighBridge Audio, Tantor Media, and more.
  • Website: rbmediaglobal.com

5. Dreamscape Media

  • What they do: Audiobook production and publishing for libraries, retail, and direct sales.
  • Also handles: Distribution to major platforms like Audible, Hoopla, OverDrive.
  • Website: dreamscapepublishing.com

🧰 Self-Publishing & Hybrid Options

6. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

  • Owned by: Amazon (works with Audible and iTunes).
  • For: Authors and publishers to create and distribute audiobooks.
  • Website: acx.com

7. Findaway Voices (by Spotify)

  • What they do: Allows authors to produce and distribute audiobooks across 40+ platforms (including Audible, Apple Books, Google, etc.).
  • Website: findawayvoices.com

8. Author’s Republic

  • What they do: Distribute audiobooks globally with easy access for self-published authors.
  • Website: authorsrepublic.com

Questions to Consider

Consider these questions before you make your selection.

  • Is the audiobook already recorded, or do you need help with narration/production? (e.g., voice talent, editing, mastering, etc.)
  • Are you looking to self-publish, or are you open to working with a publisher?
  • What is your target audience and platform preference? e.g., Audible, Spotify, Apple Books, libraries, global reach, etc.)
  • Do you want control over pricing and rights, or are you okay with royalty splits?
  • What’s the genre or focus of the content?
  • (e.g., business, leadership, fiction, memoir, etc.)

A Conversation With Journalist & Award Winning Story Teller Sharon Gordon

Absolutely thrilled to announce that Sharon Gordon’s debut book “Sheribaby is NOW AVAILABLE!

Journalist Sharon, is the talented 2025 Award winning Storyteller and niece of beloved Jamaica’s Singer Songwriter Beresford Hammond.

I met Sharon a decade ago when Reggae music matriarch Miss Patricia Chin, hosted my Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders book event at VP Records, New York.

It’s been such an honor to guide Sharon through the book publishing journey – from connecting her with Raquel, the perfect editor for her genre, to navigating publisher conversations and finally seeing her words in print.

Her dedication to the craft and willingness to embrace the publishing process made this success inevitable. This is why I do what I do!

Congratulations Sharon! Indeed, hard work pays off!

If you have been dreaming of becoming a published author but aren’t sure where to start, let Sharon’s journey inspire you. With the right guidance, YOUR story could be next on the shelves!

Order your copy of Sheribaby today https://a.co/d/5R50Nwu and follow Sharon’s author journey

Enjoy our literary conversation here.

Beauty Is In The Stories We Carry …

The Stories We Carry

Aging is not for the weak. One day you wake up and realize that your youth is gone, but along with it, so go insecurity, haste, and the need to please… You learn to walk more slowly, but with greater certainty. You say goodbye without fear, and you cherish those who stay. Aging means letting go, it means accepting, it means discovering that beauty was never in our skin… but in the story we carry inside us.

Meryl Streep

Setting Boundaries: A Key to Work-Life Balance

SAY NO

Stop asking why they keep doing it and start asking why you keep allowing it.

Setting boundaries involves defining expectations and limits in relationship (Positive Psychology). Here are 5 characteristics to help balance your work/ life.

1. Self-Care Prioritization

  • Regular exercise
  • Quality sleep
  • Healthy nutrition
  • Meditation/stress management techniques

2. Boundaries Setting

  • Clear work-life separation
  • Learning to say no
  • Limiting overtime
  • Scheduling personal time

3. Professional Support

  • Discuss workload with supervisor
  • Seek workplace accommodations
  • Consider professional counseling
  • Join support groups

4. Mental Reset Techniques

  • Take regular breaks
  • Practice mindfulness
  • Use vacation days
  • Pursue hobbies outside work

5. Systematic Recovery

  • Identify stress triggers
  • Develop coping strategies
  • Regular mental health check-ins
  • Gradual lifestyle adjustments

Here’s hoping these tips will help you achieve your work / life balance goals.

How Can Leaders Take Charge of Limited Resources to Achieve Better Outcomes?

66 Percent of Projects fail to meet their original Business intent due to poor prioritization, while 96 percent of Leaders feel they are working with limited time and resources.

Begin with the end in mind. ~Steven Covey

It was a pleasure to speak on the topic Prioritizing Workloads at the HR and Business Leader’s Council of Florida
Education, Social Impact and Networking event.

A fitting topic as 66% of Projects fail to meet their original Business intent due to poor prioritization, while 96% of Leaders feel they are working with limited time and resources.

As we forge through the new year, it’s statistics like these and the impact on organizational and personal stress that led to the Council’s forward thinking to bring it to the forefront of the business leader’s mind.

How can we prepare? How can leaders take charge of their limited resources to achieve better outcomes?

Covey steered strategists to Begin with the End in mind. 🎯 Prioritizing limited time and resources work wonders. Most of all learn to say ‘No’
to time wasters and set boundaries. 🚫

Suffice it to say, there was much to synergize and Dave & Buster’s Inc.
provided the right space.

It’s time to take charge of your priorities. Stay tuned for more on the Urgent vs. Important Matrix.

7+ Ways To Prepare For A Public-Facing Leadership Role

Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” —Jack Welch

More than two decades ago I started my first leadership role. Always facing an audience through years of athletic performance, the arts, other leadership roles, I was always confident. But this was different. In my HR Leadership role, I faced responsibilities on behalf of the company. No more hiding behind other senior leaders. My boss gave me no choice but to step up to my full responsibilities.

After going through a bout of nervousness that lasted months, I found that it got easier each time. Before long, I prepared for each meeting when I had to address employees performance, achievements and areas of development across the region with confidence.

On observation these days, we see politicians and society’s leaders in public service assuming new roles. Consequently, the question was raised; “can a person from behind the scenes excel in a new public-facing role?” The answer is absolutely!

Public-facing means a role where the (individual) exercises managerial authority or control of an entity’s activities.

Here are 7+ points to prepare for a public-facing leadership role. Focus on:

1.Communication Skills

  • Develop clear, compelling public speaking abilities
  • Practice articulating complex ideas simply
  • Learn media training techniques

2.Personal Brand Development

  • Build a professional, authentic public image
  • Be consistent across different platforms
  • Develop a strong personal narrative

3.Continuous Learning

  • Stay updated on industry trends
  • Understand diverse stakeholder perspectives
  • Cultivate emotional intelligence

4.Professional Appearance

  • Dress appropriately for your industry
  • Project confidence through body language
  • Work on your on-camera and in-person presence

5.Media and Presentation Preparation

  • Take media training workshops
  • Practice handling tough questions
  • Learn crisis communication strategies

6.Networking

  • Build relationships with key industry influencers
  • Develop a supportive professional network
  • Seek mentorship from experienced public leaders

7.Digital Literacy

  • Manage social media presence professionally
  • Understand digital communication etiquette
  • Be mindful of online reputation

Bonus: Resilience and Adaptability

  • Develop thick skin for public scrutiny
  • Learn to handle criticism constructively
  • Maintain composure under pressure

Consistent practice and self-reflection are the keys to becoming an effective public-facing leader.

What has been your experience with getting ready for a leadership role? Did you use any of the above strategies? If so, what worked for you? Any other strategy that comes to mind? Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

What Would You Attempt To Do If You Knew You Would Not Fail?

To live a fulfilled life, we need to keep creating the “what is next” of our lives. Without dreams and goals there is no living, only merely existing. – Mark Twain

What Would You Attempt To do If You Knew You Would Not Fail?…

Travel with Intent

A photographer's view of the world - words and images to inspire your travels and your dreams

Answering daily prompts

In this blog I'm attempting to answer wordpress daily prompts

Poems From Oostburg, Wisconsin

Ellen Grace Olinger

Alex Tafur

Property Maintenance

Poesy Perspectives

embrace the magic

GREENLiGHT

When God Says Go

HEALTH | INSPIRATION

Mind • Body • Life

Amaring random facts and theories

Knowing every thing

My Sister My Friend

Family. Youth. Parenting

Kamileon Photography

Your Focus. Our Lens.