http://smarterbytheminute.com Get smarter while you work! Smarter by the Minute is an easy, motivational and practical way to learn new ideas so you can work smarter and live happier. These quick tips are written, compiled and presented by Doug Smart, CSP, an award-winning, international motivational speaker and author/co-author of more than 20 books. He presents innovative and interractive programs on leadership, teambuilding, sales, and talent selection. To learn more, visit DougSmart.com Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:33:14 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.2.2 en ©Doug Smart Doug@SmarterByTheMinute.com (Doug Smart) Doug@SmarterByTheMinute.com Podcast 1440 Doug Smart,business,motivational speaker,self help, tips, productivity,smart,advice,speaker, professional speaker Smart strategies for business people who want to work smart and live happy. Get smarter while you work! Smarter by the Minute is an easy, motivational and practical way to learn new ideas so you can work smarter and live happier. These quick tips are written, compiled and presented by Doug Smart, CSP, an award-winning, international motivational speaker and author/co-author of more than 20 books. He presents innovative and interractive programs on leadership, teambuilding, sales, and talent selection. To learn more, visit DougSmart.com Doug Smart Doug Smart Doug@SmarterByTheMinute.com No clean http://smarterbytheminute.com/images/podcast-graphic.jpg http://smarterbytheminute.com 144 144 http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/11/episode-137-do-some-people-regularly-push-your-button/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/11/episode-137-do-some-people-regularly-push-your-button/#comments Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:33:14 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/11/episode-137-do-some-people-regularly-push-your-button/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/11/episode-137-do-some-people-regularly-push-your-button/feed/ 00:01:01 Do you have people who constantly nag and criticize you? How about bullying you? It might be your brother, spouse, partner, co-worker, neighbor, or anybody. ... Do you have people who constantly nag and criticize you? How about bullying you? It might be your brother, spouse, partner, co-worker, neighbor, or anybody. To get to the root of it: I say, putting you down is a cheap trick for boosting themselves up. By spotting and correcting your shortcomings they get a momentary rush of feeling superior to you. After all, they must be wiser than you since they have the wisdom to see the error of your ways. Let's put things in perspective. When you have someone in your life who constantly corrects you, it helps to imagine the buttons on a blender. When one button is pushed down the other buttons go up. By pointing out your faults to you they push your button down and that means theirs goes up. They get an emotional lift. It's a very basic way to get a boost of self-esteem. When people do that to me, no matter how sincere they may seem, I quickly ask myself "are you trying to genuinely help me or are you a button pusher?" Usually it's button pushing. And realizing that helps me handle the situation more rationally and professionally than arguing, getting defensive or feeling inferior. How do you handle the situation? The same as you'd tell a child about dealing with bullies at school. You can fight if you want to but that usually isn't effective. Stand up to them by ignoring, smiling, walking away, getting a mediator, or asking a higher authority to intervene. That's smarter than letting them push your buttons! Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/09/episode-136-which-is-the-real-you-the-home-you-or-the-work-you/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/09/episode-136-which-is-the-real-you-the-home-you-or-the-work-you/#comments Tue, 09 Oct 2007 14:09:24 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/09/episode-136-which-is-the-real-you-the-home-you-or-the-work-you/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/09/episode-136-which-is-the-real-you-the-home-you-or-the-work-you/feed/ 1:39 Many people experience a change of personality when they arrive at work. People who are gentle and loving at home sometimes become cranky co-workers and ... Many people experience a change of personality when they arrive at work. People who are gentle and loving at home sometimes become cranky co-workers and ballistic bosses. And the opposite, too ndash; people who rule the home with an iron fist are often gentle pussy cats at the office. So what gives? I'm no psychiatrist, but I believe that people who switch personalities between home and work are caught in a trap of playing roles. To get what they want, some pretend to be domineering and bossy. On the other hand some pretend to be submissive and self-deprecating because it wins favors and preserves what they've got; after all, rocking the boat by being more assertive could potentially capsize the boat. So which is the real person? For years I told our children, "The way you are at home is the real you." I used to believe that in the freedom of our homes we expressed our real natures behind closed doors and drawn drapes. Now I'm not so certain. The real person could really be the personality at work, especially if the individual is smart enough to get himself into a type of work he loves. Is there an answer to this? Great advice is still, "To thine own self be true ndash; at both home and work." To this I add, "There is some job on this planet that needs to be done and you are the right person for it. Don't depend on luck. It's your job to go find it." And when you do find it, you'll discover that your true nature will express itself. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/04/episode-135-why-its-smart-to-add-your-name-to-your-e-address/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/04/episode-135-why-its-smart-to-add-your-name-to-your-e-address/#comments Thu, 04 Oct 2007 15:26:14 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/04/episode-135-why-its-smart-to-add-your-name-to-your-e-address/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/04/episode-135-why-its-smart-to-add-your-name-to-your-e-address/feed/ 1:51 Take a look at the in-box of your e-mail. If it's like mine, 50% of the senders identify themselves with their names. The others use ... Take a look at the in-box of your e-mail. If it's like mine, 50% of the senders identify themselves with their names. The others use just their e-mail address, which might include enough of a name to figure out who they are. OK, so what's the big deal? It's smart to put your name before your e-mail address when you're the sender. Here are 3 things to consider: be proud, be positioned, be paid attention to. Be proud to be you. People like to do business with self-confident people. Use your name proudly. When people don't use their names it kind of makes me wonder if they are hiding something (like the spammers do) or if they are mousy like a person who mumbles her name when introduced. Position yourself. Build your name recognition as if building a brand. Take Coca-Cola, one of the most recognized names on earth; they still spend half a billion dollars every year on advertising so you remember who they are and what they are all about. It's healthy for you to do some horn blowing, too, so you don't get lost in the shuffle ndash; especially in hyper-evolving workplaces, like yours. Get people to pay attention to your e-mails. I don't know about you but I get so much spam e-mail now that if I can't tell who it's from I'm more likely to delete it than read it. That said, send me an e-mail about your gripes or compliments about e-mail etiquette. Include your name, but if you don't want me to read it on the air, just say so. My address is Doug@DougSmart.com. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/02/episode-134-persistence-lesson-from-a-duck/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/02/episode-134-persistence-lesson-from-a-duck/#comments Tue, 02 Oct 2007 10:30:35 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/02/episode-134-persistence-lesson-from-a-duck/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/10/02/episode-134-persistence-lesson-from-a-duck/feed/ 00:01:01 Last week my parents were visiting from out of state and for something different to do, we rented a boat so we could have a ... Last week my parents were visiting from out of state and for something different to do, we rented a boat so we could have a picnic on Lake Lanier. "Oh, look at the ducks!" my wife said as we boarded the boat. "They're watching us." I turned around and, sure enough, a dozen mallard ducks had gathered behind our boat like beggars in the marketplace. They looked well fed and our lunch was still packed away so none of us made any effort to feed them. As we slowly pulled out of the marina, one female duck paddled along behind us. She worked hard at keeping up with us. "Quack, quack, quack!" she screamed, but we didn't respond. And once we got into open water we revved up the engine and took off. 15 minutes later we dropped anchor in a secluded cove and spread out our picnic on the deck. A noisy splash on the starboard side startled us. "Look! It's the duck again," my wife laughed. Sure enough, there she was. "Quack, quack, quack!" she squawked. How could we resist? We tossed bread and sunflower seeds to her. All by herself and without any competition she was in eating heaven. And I thought, "How smart you are. You alone are brave enough to leave the flock and safe harbor. And persistent enough to follow us this far to get what you want. Your commitment, cunning and energy have earned you the right to feast better than the others. Enjoy your meal, my persistent little friend." Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/27/episode-133-reduce-the-number-of-fires/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/27/episode-133-reduce-the-number-of-fires/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2007 10:30:09 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/27/episode-133-reduce-the-number-of-fires/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/27/episode-133-reduce-the-number-of-fires/feed/ 1:31 Watching the news last night I felt compassion for weary firefighters who were exhausted, grimy and bruised. They provide an invaluable service but what a ... Watching the news last night I felt compassion for weary firefighters who were exhausted, grimy and bruised. They provide an invaluable service but what a way to make a living! Then I thought of some of my neighbors: they come home looking the same way ndash; and they work in nice, air-conditioned offices! Do you spend your business day fighting fires? Does your work feel like one crisis after another? Do people dump their problems on you and expect you to solve them? If you do, then here are 4 smart tips for cooling off and finding fast relief. Understand that 9 out of 10 emergencies are not. They have learned to masquerade as crises to get your attention. People around you may have learned how to make the right noises to get you to jump. You don't need to worry about missing out. A true crisis will find you every time. Don't try to be a hero by solving everyone else's problems. Teach people where to find answers for themselves. They need to learn to be as smart as you. Empower people to solve their own problems. This means you have to accept that they won't solve challenges like you and you won't always agree. So what? Put your energy into more important stuff. Stay focused on accomplishing your most important tasks. Don't let yourself be too easily distracted and you'll find you'll fight fewer fires. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/25/episode-132-character-is-everything/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/25/episode-132-character-is-everything/#comments Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:30:13 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/25/episode-132-character-is-everything/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/25/episode-132-character-is-everything/feed/ 1:48 Growing up, my Dad told me, as I'm sure your Mom or Dad told you, "Your reputation is everything." Now I know what he ... Growing up, my Dad told me, as I'm sure your Mom or Dad told you, "Your reputation is everything." Now I know what he said was right but he didn't go deep enough, because actually, our character is everything. H. Jackson Browne said, "Our character is what we do when we think no one is looking." Our character is internal while our reputation is external. And, wrote Elbert Hubbard, "many a man's reputation would not know his character if they met on the street." So, how do you develop a positive character? Helen Keller, an activist for the blind 75 years ago said, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved." That sounds harsh but I believe Dr. Martin Luther King would of agreed with her wisdom. He said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." Taking this concept further is Abraham Lincoln's pronouncement, "Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." I wonder if he was referring to people who go from being on the sales team to Vice President of Sales? Anyhow, I believe our character is something we can sculpt and I like Ken Keys observation, "A loving person lives in a loving world. A hostile person lives in a hostile world. Everyone you meet is your mirror." Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/20/episode-131-risk-taker-vs-consistency-quality-producer/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/20/episode-131-risk-taker-vs-consistency-quality-producer/#comments Thu, 20 Sep 2007 10:30:56 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/20/episode-131-risk-taker-vs-consistency-quality-producer/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/20/episode-131-risk-taker-vs-consistency-quality-producer/feed/ 1:44 Are you a risk taker or a consistent quality producer? Both are valuable but they are opposites. In a seminar I lead, I ask participants ... Are you a risk taker or a consistent quality producer? Both are valuable but they are opposites. In a seminar I lead, I ask participants to put an x on a line between risk taker and consistent quality producer where they think they are. And then I ask them to put a y where they feel the organization would like them to be. Being close together is ideal. But if there is any gap, I ask them to label it the stress gap. Risk takers get stressed in organizations or departments that reward doing predictable things in predictable ways for predictable results. Likewise, conservative people are stressed when the organization is anything but predictable, like when people are told, "Give it a try. Let's see what happens." What if you're caught in a tug-of-war like this? It's smart to be true to your inner feelings because that is where you are strongest and can make the greatest contribution. It's up to the risk taker types to get themselves into jobs that reward risk taking, such as leadership, sales and design work. Ditto for consistent quality producer types. They are responsible for maneuvering themselves into positions that reward consistency, such as management, accounting and teaching. It's smart to narrow the stress gap because the wider it grows, the more stress and anxiety you will feel from your job. And we all know that stressed out people can't contribute their best. I say it's always smart to perform work that's consistent with your personality. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/18/episode-130-chop-up-the-project-into-human-size-pieces/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/18/episode-130-chop-up-the-project-into-human-size-pieces/#comments Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:30:20 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/18/episode-130-chop-up-the-project-into-human-size-pieces/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/18/episode-130-chop-up-the-project-into-human-size-pieces/feed/ 00:01:01 What do you do when it's time to start a big project that you've been putting off? Well, if you're like many of us, you ... What do you do when it's time to start a big project that you've been putting off? Well, if you're like many of us, you get up and go get a cup of coffee! You go for a walk. You go visit other people close to your workspace, "Hi Joe! My morning sure is hectic. How about yours?" When there's a big project to tackle, like writing a proposal or preparing a schedule, many people put off starting it because they want the time to be right. You know, they wait for a perfect block of time so they can focus 100% without interruptions. More often what they're looking for is to get in the mood first. They want to feel like tackling the work. And that makes me think of a quote from Nido Quiben: "If you only work when you feel like working, you won't get much work done." Regrettably they sometimes delay starting the project so long that when they finally resign themselves to start, their time is limited and they're rushed to get it done. So what's a busy professional to do? Try this smart approach. When you face any project that feels overwhelming, break it into what I call "human-size" pieces that you can handle. And start tackling a few of those human-size pieces immediately. Each day schedule some of those pieces on your to do list. This way, your mind gets into the project, your resistance melts away, and your creativity opens up. And before you know it, you'll finish the project. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/13/episode-129-polishing-communication-skills/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/13/episode-129-polishing-communication-skills/#comments Thu, 13 Sep 2007 10:30:23 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/13/episode-129-polishing-communication-skills/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/13/episode-129-polishing-communication-skills/feed/ 1:41 Leslie Charles teaches communication training. She tells how she was arguing with her husband. He said to Leslie, "You're shouting!" Leslie yelled back, "Of course ... Leslie Charles teaches communication training. She tells how she was arguing with her husband. He said to Leslie, "You're shouting!" Leslie yelled back, "Of course I'm shouting. I don't know what I'm talking about!" Not being able to articulate what you want to say can be excruciatingly frustrating. Often you know what you want to say but don't know how to get it out. How can you become more articulate? In a word: practice. Here are 4 smart ideas: Remind yourself to stay calm in an argument and to speak from facts not emotion. Plan to participate in discussion at every meeting you attend ndash; even if it's for the zoning commission! To get past fears and feeling self-consciousness, speak up at meetings and other public places. If the idea puts a knot in your stomach than before you get to the meeting I recommend you prepare 3 questions to ask. Get yourself appointed to head a committee. You'll be forced to interact with others on a focused topic. And you'll be better for it. Get a part in local theater group. Riley was one of the shyest people I had ever met. But what a performer when he got on stage! He even won awards for expressing himself with depth and passion. It changed his life and gave him the feelings of confidence and self-expression that he later duplicated in his business life. The best way to polish how well you express yourself is by practicing how you express yourself. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/11/episode-128-the-most-valuable-skill-for-business-success-and-happiness-in-life/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/11/episode-128-the-most-valuable-skill-for-business-success-and-happiness-in-life/#comments Tue, 11 Sep 2007 10:30:29 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/11/episode-128-the-most-valuable-skill-for-business-success-and-happiness-in-life/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/11/episode-128-the-most-valuable-skill-for-business-success-and-happiness-in-life/feed/ 1:43 The president of the company asked me, "What one skill is the most valuable in business?" The answer was easy, I thought. I was fresh ... The president of the company asked me, "What one skill is the most valuable in business?" The answer was easy, I thought. I was fresh out of college, clutching a degree in finance, and I felt I had the world pretty much figured out. With great confidence I replied, "The best skill in business is knowing how money works." He smiled a little, actually smirked, and shook his head. With a fatherly voice he said, "Doug, let me tell you. You put money first and might get some but you'll never be happy. No son, the most important skill you can develop is the ability to communicate well. If you communicate well you can accomplish anything." This happened the same year Ronald Reagan was sworn in as President. That's Ronald Reagan who rose from stage actor to leader of the United States and who earned a place in history as The Great Communicator. Since then I have learned the secret ingredient of people who rise to the top: it's communication skills. You want to continually polish your ability to express yourself well so that information moves from your head into someone else's head in a way that the other person not only comprehends your message but is willing to act on it in the way you wish. That advice made an impact on me. If you could meet yourself again fresh out of school, what advice would you give yourself about how to be successful in business and happy in life? E-mail with your advice. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/06/episode-127-delegating-when-everyone-is-just-as-busy-as-you/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/06/episode-127-delegating-when-everyone-is-just-as-busy-as-you/#comments Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:30:36 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/06/episode-127-delegating-when-everyone-is-just-as-busy-as-you/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/06/episode-127-delegating-when-everyone-is-just-as-busy-as-you/feed/ 1:43 I ask busy executives why they don't delegate more. One common answer is, "Everyone else is just as busy as me." Ok, but what if ... I ask busy executives why they don't delegate more. One common answer is, "Everyone else is just as busy as me." Ok, but what if you believe someone else on the team should do the job? Here are 4 smart ways to handle it: Discuss priorities. This is touchy, but maybe the other person is busy but not productive. Let me ask you, "Is it possible for someone to be very busy and get nothing done?" You know it! By taking on this request from you, you might be helping a co-worker straighten out her priorities. Match the right job to the right person. Just because a job comes in your direction it doesn't mean you're the right person for it. Find out who is best qualified. Based on skills, training, experience, and job flow, it could be a perfect fit for someone else. Ask, does this need to be done? Maybe the real reason you want to unload a job is because you can't justify the time, energy and cost to do it yourself. Perhaps the world will continue to function well even if the job doesn't get done. Talk to your boss about work flow. Discuss it at team meetings, too. The way procedures and responsibilities are changing so fast, it's possible your team has outgrown it's way of dividing the work. It's healthy to keep reassessing the work flow so that the customers, team members and stock holders all get the best return on your salary. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/04/episode-126-take-brain-vacations-at-work/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/04/episode-126-take-brain-vacations-at-work/#comments Tue, 04 Sep 2007 10:30:17 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/04/episode-126-take-brain-vacations-at-work/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/09/04/episode-126-take-brain-vacations-at-work/feed/ 1:34 Do you have a high pressure job? Don't let it make you explode! Lou Ann Hyder, a healthcare worker in Lexington, KY, recommends that ... Do you have a high pressure job? Don't let it make you explode! Lou Ann Hyder, a healthcare worker in Lexington, KY, recommends that to reclaim your sense of calm and balance, you should take 3 vacations ndash; right at work. Lou Ann writes, "On days I feel particularly overwhelmed and stressed, I take three times during the day, one to two minutes each, and think of a pleasant memory or experience. For example, I'll bring back an extremely pleasant memory of vacationing in Seabrook, SC, or a particularly funny statement my 7 y.o. might of said at the supper table last night. This is a wonderful way to get away from it all if only for a few minutes." I say, Lou Ann's got a smart idea. I call these brain vacations and they are a great way to untangle the stuff in your head that makes you feel stressed. To make it work, tell yourself you are going a relaxed zone. Give yourself the OK to leave your present challenges. Then just lean back in your chair or against a wall, close your eyes and let yourself mentally go to another place. Take a couple of deep breathes and get absorbed in your thoughts as though you were physically there. Your body and mind will relax. Enjoy the pleasant mental sensations. It only takes a minute or two -- and the end result? You could feel more re-energized than if you took a real vacation. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/30/episode-125-interrupt-interruptions-before-they-interrupt-you/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/30/episode-125-interrupt-interruptions-before-they-interrupt-you/#comments Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:30:18 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/30/episode-125-interrupt-interruptions-before-they-interrupt-you/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/30/episode-125-interrupt-interruptions-before-they-interrupt-you/feed/ 1:40 Heaven on Earth is when you can focus your time, talent and tools on solving challenges. But what about the irritating little interruptions that rob ... Heaven on Earth is when you can focus your time, talent and tools on solving challenges. But what about the irritating little interruptions that rob you of your power? Here are some smart tips that smart people in Pennsylvania shared with me. Kevin Capatch of Huntingdon recommends, "Keep stuff on chairs in your office so people don't make themselves at home." Jane Kile of Danville minimizes interruptions. She posts her calendar, including tasks she's working on, on her computer. She writes, "My co-workers can check my schedule to determine the most likely times to meet. This decreases drop ins and time wasted on the phone playing phone tag." Joe Solomon of Pittsburgh has some clever suggestions: "Keep the coffee machine out of your office. Keep items all staff use in a common area [so you're not interrupted when Sally needs the paper cutter]. Use your beeper for emergency use only. Take an office set back from others" so you're not in a high traffic area and inadvertently inviting interruptions. There you have it. It's a coincidence these smart people all live in Pennsylvania. Or is it? Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/28/episode-124-perception-is-everything/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/28/episode-124-perception-is-everything/#comments Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:30:54 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/28/episode-124-perception-is-everything/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/08/28/episode-124-perception-is-everything/feed/ 1:46 The reality is, the quality of your life has nothing to do with your money, your looks or your job title. It's your perception. I've ... The reality is, the quality of your life has nothing to do with your money, your looks or your job title. It's your perception. I've shared this belief with many people. A man in Ashville, North Carolina, told me he had always accepted the idea that life is pretty much what you make it, but he said he never really believed it until, he said, "I saw what happened last Saturday." "What happened?" I asked. "I had family visiting and they wanted to do some sightseeing so I took them up on Chimney Rock." For those who haven't seen it yet, it's a huge flat rock atop a mountain in the gorgeous Smokey Mountains and when you stand on it, you're embraced by breathtaking views of lush green valleys, a rushing river and the magnificent North Carolina mountains. "It was a really hot, sticky day," he said. "The place was crowded. But up high the air was noticeably cooler. I saw a blind man with a group of people, but they wandered off and left him alone. He stood with his hands resting on the iron railing. While everyone else was looking down, the blind man had his face up feeling the sun and gentle summer breeze, and drinking in the chatter around him. And the blind man was so moved by what he was feeling that he said aloud, to no one in particular, lsquo;What a beautiful place this is.' I realized right than that while the rest of us were seeing with our eyes he saw with his soul. So, Doug, when you say, lsquo;Perception is everything,' I totally agree." Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/17/episode-123-variations-on-a-tickler-file-theme/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/17/episode-123-variations-on-a-tickler-file-theme/#comments Thu, 17 May 2007 10:30:30 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/17/episode-123-variations-on-a-tickler-file-theme/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/17/episode-123-variations-on-a-tickler-file-theme/feed/ 1:43 Just as people personalize their cubicles, the tickler file system for keeping track of paper gets personalized, too. Check this out. Kathie Scott , a ... Just as people personalize their cubicles, the tickler file system for keeping track of paper gets personalized, too. Check this out. Kathie Scott , a materials manager in Nashville, stays on top of assignments, ideas and requests with her personal tickler file system. She writes, "I have file folders labeled Monday through Friday and another set titled 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th weeks. I put notes, faxes and project material in the folder for the appropriate day. If I don't complete the task that day or postpone it to another week, I just slip the information in the next appropriate folder. This works great when I'm asked for a response on a particular day because I can follow-up easily." Karen Forcum of Mode, Illinois, uses 12 files folders as the backbone of her tickler file system, one for each month. She writes, "I deposit things for that month. I check it on the first of each month." Mark Hughey, a minister in Merrimac, Wisconsin, made a tickler file system of monthly files, too. He buys birthday and anniversary cards early and files them away until it's time to mail them. David Guy of Lutherville, Maryland, tells me he slips motivational messages into his tickler file. He writes, "They keep me going." I smiled when I read that because my wife, Gayle, occasionally slips "I love you" notes into my project-laden files. It's a great day brightener. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/15/episode-122-a-tickler-file-is-a-smart-solution/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/15/episode-122-a-tickler-file-is-a-smart-solution/#comments Tue, 15 May 2007 12:33:08 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/15/episode-122-a-tickler-file-is-a-smart-solution/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/15/episode-122-a-tickler-file-is-a-smart-solution/feed/ 1:41 Put papers in their place fast with a tickler file system. It's an old idea with a young heart. Here's how you can set up ... Put papers in their place fast with a tickler file system. It's an old idea with a young heart. Here's how you can set up one: Take 31 file folders and number them from one to 31 for the days of a month. Then take 12 more file folders and label each with the name of a month. Pick up each piece of paper on your desk that is deserving of staying in your life and on the top right corner pencil the date you think you will need it. If it happens to be within the next 31 days, drop it in that number file, otherwise store it in the appropriate month file. At the end of every day, as your last official duty on company time, make tomorrow's to do list from tomorrow's file folder. For example, if today was the 10th, then make tomorrow's to do list from your file for the 11th. Near the end of each month also dump the contents of next month's file an choose what days of the coming month you wish to deal with each piece. The beauty of this is, you will have what you need, where you need it and when you need it. No fuss, no muss, no errors. This is the information age and you are wired, but the reality is you have more paper coming into your life than ever before. Your tickler file system will simplify and melt away the glacier of paper that could be putting the freeze on your productivity! Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/10/episode-121-hearing-and-listening/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/10/episode-121-hearing-and-listening/#comments Thu, 10 May 2007 10:30:21 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/10/episode-121-hearing-and-listening/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/10/episode-121-hearing-and-listening/feed/ 1:45 Here's something that happened just a couple of days ago. I was driving between Louisville and Cincinnati and I pulled into a McDonald's for refueling, ... Here's something that happened just a couple of days ago. I was driving between Louisville and Cincinnati and I pulled into a McDonald's for refueling, something I don't normally do but which goes to show you that a couple hundred million dollars a year in advertising does build neurological bridges in the brain. At the table opposite me sat a young farmer type and his six year old boy. The man looked lost in thought, worried. The boy occasionally blurted out double sentence comments, but since they didn't even get his father to look at him, he lapsed back into short segments of silence. It seems like they just sat there in silence for the longest time, just eating. There wasn't a lot of communication going on, at least not talking. Actually the father did make a few brief, whispered comments near the end so he wasn't oblivious of his son. Now I have no right to make judgments on others ndash; I know that -- but it got me to thinking, "Mister, I wish I could share with you that your boy loves you and wants you to listen to him. You probably think you are listening but you are only hearing. Hearing is what we do when vibrations get in our ear canals. Listening is different because listening is what we do with those vibrations in our minds and hearts. You're a lucky man to have that 6 year old son. If you want to show him you love him, stop listening to your own thoughts and listen to his." This is Doug Smart with Smarter by the Minute. Make today a smart day! Copyright 2000 by Doug Smart. All rights reserved. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/08/episode-120-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-2/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/08/episode-120-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-2/#comments Tue, 08 May 2007 10:30:24 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/08/episode-120-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-2/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/08/episode-120-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-2/feed/ 1:40 On the last show I suggested introducing team change as a five-week experiment because experiments make change easier to accept. Plus, you establish a perfect ... On the last show I suggested introducing team change as a five-week experiment because experiments make change easier to accept. Plus, you establish a perfect opportunity for soliciting true feedback during the first five weeks. But why five weeks? Psychologists say it usually takes a 1 month to get comfortable with a new routine. Years ago in my real estate office, when I changed the systems, it generally took 4 weeks for the noise to settle down and each change to take root. So why make it five weeks instead of four? During that last week the griping, moaning and complaining generally dissolves and you can do a candid assessment whether your new idea is worthwhile or not. And here's something else, if you impose a change and it turns out to be lousy, you have to change back. Your reputation as a professional might suffer as the grumblers will grumble, "I told you she didn't know what she's talking about." But if you set up an experiment and at the end of the 5 weeks you choose to dump it and go back to the older, more effective way, all you do is simply announce that the experiment confirmed the original way was better. Be sure to thank you everyone for trying. The nice thing here is your professional reputation doesn't take a punch in the nose. You didn't fail. Actually, you are to be commended for taking a risk and conducting an experiment to improve things. Doesn't that sound smart? Copyright 2000 by Doug Smart. All rights reserved. Podcast Doug Smart no No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/03/episode-119-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-1/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/03/episode-119-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-1/#comments Thu, 03 May 2007 10:30:38 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/03/episode-119-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-1/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/03/episode-119-try-a-5-week-experiment-%e2%80%93-part-1/feed/ 1:47 Basically, you can expect three responses to your ideas for improvement on the team; you'll have change embracers, acceptors and avoiders. Recently, on Smarter by ... Basically, you can expect three responses to your ideas for improvement on the team; you'll have change embracers, acceptors and avoiders. Recently, on Smarter by the Minute, I did a series on how to work with the 3 types. A lot of listeners e-mailed that the individual "how to" tips were great but they wanted a faster method -- faster than trying to figure out the needs of each of the three types. Well here it is. I have a simple solution that smartly accomplishes that. The idea is: Set up your change as a five-week experiment. It works like this. Instead of imposing a change, propose a change. Ask co-workers ndash; and your boss -- to work with you on a five-week experiment. Start the "experiment" (that's in quotes) just like any other change. Be sure to explain why the change, who will do what, how and by when. Inform everyone how it will impact people and the results you expect. The reason it works is that the change avoiders and acceptors will feel less threatened by the change, after all, this is just an experiment. The change embracers will enjoy the fun of breaking up the old routine for awhile. During and after the experiment, be sure to solicit feedback. At the end of five weeks, if the change was for the better, keep it. If not, than go back to the old way or try another variation. A five-week experiment is a smart way to get people on board quickly. Copyright 2000 by Doug Smart. All rights reserved. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/01/episode-118-if-you-dont-ask-you-dont-get/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/01/episode-118-if-you-dont-ask-you-dont-get/#comments Tue, 01 May 2007 10:30:18 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/01/episode-118-if-you-dont-ask-you-dont-get/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/05/01/episode-118-if-you-dont-ask-you-dont-get/feed/ 1:42 I have a friend named Mike. He lives in Metairie, Louisiana. He owned a store and enjoyed a lot of repeat customers. One man always ... I have a friend named Mike. He lives in Metairie, Louisiana. He owned a store and enjoyed a lot of repeat customers. One man always asked Mike for a discount and it really bugged him. So, one day Mike asked him, "Why you keep asking me for a discount? It's not like you need the money, you've got 8 rental houses!" The man said, "You can't blame me for asking. And besides, wherever I shop, I always ask for discount." "Does it work?" asked Mike. "About 10% of the time," he replied. You know that old saying, "You don't ask, you don't get." Does this mean you can walk into store like Sears, Penny's or Macy's, ask for a discount and expect to get it? Be a possibility thinker! The answer is "sometimes." I lead a seminar in Atlanta and I told this story about my friend, Mike. Two ladies went shopping at the break and when they came back with shopping bags they were so excited they couldn't wait to tell me. "We did it! We went shopping at Macy's and we asked for a discount!" "Did it work?" Overcome with excitement one stammered, turned to her friend and shouted, "Show him your underwear!" They had gone brazier shopping and got 25% off the top, just for asking! Mike's story taught me that it's true, "If you don't ask, you don't get!" And that's an important lesson for business. Where you work, isn't asking vital to getting? Be sure to ask for what you want. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/26/episode-117-try-50-new-things-every-month/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/26/episode-117-try-50-new-things-every-month/#comments Thu, 26 Apr 2007 10:30:51 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/26/episode-117-try-50-new-things-every-month/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/26/episode-117-try-50-new-things-every-month/feed/ 1:50 I recommend, try 50 new things every month. 50. Doesn't that sound obnoxious? Put it in perspective. That's less than 2 a day. And just ... I recommend, try 50 new things every month. 50. Doesn't that sound obnoxious? Put it in perspective. That's less than 2 a day. And just keep them simple. For example ndash; go to work by a different route and be sure to look up at the tops of trees and good architecture. Most Americans don't look higher than the tops of their eyebrows and miss experiencing some beautiful things. Other ideas: eat something different for lunch, make that phone call you keep putting off, volunteer for a risky assignment. Gayle and I have a little game we play. Our kids do this, too. Whenever any of us goes grocery shopping, we always buy one item we have never ever bought before. We are pushovers for new and improved. The cost is low and we have a pantry full of interesting food. And you know what? By voluntarily trying new things, it exercises your mind to stay flexible and receptive to change. It keeps your comfort zone from crusting over and blocking you from fully enjoying the exciting new times we are blessed to be living in! All week we've talked about my 10-20-30-40-50 Resiliency System, which is a smart way for business people to stay strong, confident and happy in fast changing times. Here it is again: Read for 10 minutes every morning. Spend 20 minutes a day around positive, upbeat, optimistic people Say 30 positive things about yourself back to yourself every day. Say "Thank you," 40 times a day. Try 50 new things every month, which is only 2 a day. And keep them simple. Copyright 2000 by Doug Smart. All rights reserved. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/24/episode-116-say-thank-you-40-times-a-day/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/24/episode-116-say-thank-you-40-times-a-day/#comments Tue, 24 Apr 2007 10:30:49 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/24/episode-116-say-thank-you-40-times-a-day/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/24/episode-116-say-thank-you-40-times-a-day/feed/ 1:43 Here's a great little tip for putting more joy into your life right now. A lot of you know this one already, but it's fun ... Here's a great little tip for putting more joy into your life right now. A lot of you know this one already, but it's fun to hear it again. I suggest you say, "Thank you," 40 times a day. Zig Zigler calls this the attitude of gratitude. Life is good right now. You've got people around you who don't believe life is good. They might be your co-workers, customers ndash; even your family members. They'll tell you that life is tough but that one day it will get good. And they're right. But do you know when it'll get good? -- 10 years from now when they can safely look to the past, to the "good old days," and fondly remember how good it was: "life was easier then; we didn't have the worries of today; times weren't as crazy." Baloney! Everyone faced big challenges back then, too, just like now (every stage of life brings it's big challenges). Funny thing about human nature, though, people tend to think fondly about things that happened over 10 years ago. And some are perpetually waiting for the video to come out so they can enjoy life by looking backwards. I ask, "Why wait 10 years? Why waste 10 years?" Enjoy life now! This is it. Saying, "Thank you," 40 times a day puts things in perspective, smoothes life's jagged edges and helps us feel the peace that comes with appreciation. I say that by saying "Thank you," 40 times a day you can feel appreciation for the good things you've got while still working to make them better. Copyright 2000 by Doug Smart. All rights reserved. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/19/episode-115-say-30-positive-things-about-yourself-to-yourself-every-day/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/19/episode-115-say-30-positive-things-about-yourself-to-yourself-every-day/#comments Thu, 19 Apr 2007 10:30:02 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/19/episode-115-say-30-positive-things-about-yourself-to-yourself-every-day/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/19/episode-115-say-30-positive-things-about-yourself-to-yourself-every-day/feed/ 1:51 Saying positive affirmations about yourself is powerful. 3000 years ago King Solomon noted that as a man thinks, he becomes. How often do you affirm ... Saying positive affirmations about yourself is powerful. 3000 years ago King Solomon noted that as a man thinks, he becomes. How often do you affirm the best in yourself? I recommend to all business people, say 30 positive things about yourself to yourself everyday. You want to say things that reflect your deep inner truth. Most will start with "I am." On my list I have: "I am a child of God. I am a good father. I am a doer. I am optimistic and enthusiastic. I am lucky. I am a risk taker so that I gain security. I am an internationally known motivational speaker." All that sounds very straight-forward, but I'll tell you, it took me 3 months to make the list. When I first wrote down those things I didn't totally believe them. The acid test is this. Read your list every morning while standing in front of a mirror. The hard part will be not flinching. You see, there are 6 billion people on Earth and you have the ability to lie to every one except one. Who's that? Yourself! I want you to write out a list of 30 positive things about yourself that express the real you ndash; both the way you are now and what you believe you are capable of becoming -- and then every morning stand in front of a mirror and say those things to yourself. It's an emotionally healthy and powerful way to affirm your personal truth that your business life may have buried deep under the layers. Bring it back up. Live it! Copyright 2000 by Doug Smart. All rights reserved. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/17/episode-114-spend-at-least-20-minutes-daily-with-positive-people/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/17/episode-114-spend-at-least-20-minutes-daily-with-positive-people/#comments Tue, 17 Apr 2007 10:30:09 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/17/episode-114-spend-at-least-20-minutes-daily-with-positive-people/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/17/episode-114-spend-at-least-20-minutes-daily-with-positive-people/feed/ 1:37 You and I become the people around us. So I say, spend 20 minutes a day around positive, motivated, optimistic people. People who are good ... You and I become the people around us. So I say, spend 20 minutes a day around positive, motivated, optimistic people. People who are good for you. They'll recharge your batteries. We all know there are two kinds of people ndash; those who bring you down and those who bring you up. Be sure to invite uplifting people into your life. And if you don't have any, go rent some! Borrow the motivational tapes your optimistic friends listen to. And I'd like to see you spend more time with those optimistic friends. Enjoy having lunch with them and talking on the phone for a few minutes. That's what I do. It's smart to enjoy people in your life who show up and bring you up. Here is what I mean. Christine is the little girl who lives across the street. One day she came over and asked, "Mr. Doug, can I catch bugs in your garden today?" "Sure, Christine, but why don't you catch bugs in your garden?" "Because my daddy sprays and he says you don't. And last night he told Mamma, again, that the big ones are coming from your side." Isn't that precious? And don't you and I need people around us who are as real as that child? They don't play games, no politics, no telling you what you want to hear. Just real, straightforward, positive people with a zest for life. Spend 20 minutes a day around positive, motivated, optimistic people. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/12/episode-113-read-for-10-minutes-every-morning/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/12/episode-113-read-for-10-minutes-every-morning/#comments Thu, 12 Apr 2007 10:30:42 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/12/episode-113-read-for-10-minutes-every-morning/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/12/episode-113-read-for-10-minutes-every-morning/feed/ 1:44 Ever wake up to music? Ever have the first song of the day stick in your head and you can't get it out? You're OK ... Ever wake up to music? Ever have the first song of the day stick in your head and you can't get it out? You're OK if it's a happy, upbeat song. But what if it's one of those depressing heart stoppers? Like baby ducks, our earliest images tend to stick. I say, for 10 minutes every morning, it's a smart idea to go read. Fill you head with something beneficial. Grab something to read that is inspirational, motivational or "how to." For me, I love to read biographies -- how did other people fight the lions, tigers and bears? I'll grab a computer magazine. I'm not particularly computer literate so I'll read an article to learn something new and maybe risk trying it out during the day. Or I'll grab a seed catalog. I love to garden, and it's spring in my house any morning I choose. Seed catalogs are packed with optimism and the empowering message, "You can grow this, too!" What I'm saying is it's smart to put wholesome brain groceries in your head for a fresh start. Start your day strong. Ignore the TV, radio and newspaper until later -- all you'll miss is a diet that might be setting you up for feeling down. And avoid getting dependent on outside media to jumpstart your feelings anyhow. Instead, take charge and go read for 10 minutes every morning. It's a smart start to a terrific day every day. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/10/episode-112-enjoy-life%e2%80%99s-precious-little-moments/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/10/episode-112-enjoy-life%e2%80%99s-precious-little-moments/#comments Tue, 10 Apr 2007 10:30:45 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/10/episode-112-enjoy-life%e2%80%99s-precious-little-moments/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/04/10/episode-112-enjoy-life%e2%80%99s-precious-little-moments/feed/ 1:46 When I got to my aisle seat on the plane, two young boys were already buckled into the seats next to me. I smiled and ... When I got to my aisle seat on the plane, two young boys were already buckled into the seats next to me. I smiled and thought, ldquo;OK, Irsquo;ll just read my newspaper.rdquo; But as I settled in, I heard a little voice say, ldquo;Hi.rdquo; Well, how could I resist? 8 and 6 years old, they were so excited about flying to visit their Aunt Sue in Las Vegas they could hardly contain themselves! We chatted about everything. I learned the hotel they were going to had 5 swimming pools and they intended to splash in each one. They educated me about dinosaur movies, books on tape, video games and Brittany Spears. They couldnrsquo;t remember the name of the last movie they saw but the 8 year old said it was about a young athlete who helped an old lady by donating his kidney stone. Cute, huh? When the conversation flagged, I picked up my newspaper, which prompted the 6 year old to toss out a great conversation starter. He said, ldquo;Irsquo;ve been told meat has protein.rdquo; Well, of course, that gave us new things to talk about. As we prepared to land, I congratulated their parents on a terrific job raising two fine young men and how refreshing it was to get out of my world for a couple of hours and enjoy the childrenrsquo;s. It energized me for the rest of the day. And you know what? I recommend to you -- itrsquo;s smart to re-energize yourself by enjoying lifersquo;s precious moments, such as real conversation with children. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/29/episode-111-how-to-work-smart-with-change-avoiders/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/29/episode-111-how-to-work-smart-with-change-avoiders/#comments Thu, 29 Mar 2007 10:30:09 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/29/episode-111-how-to-work-smart-with-change-avoiders/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/29/episode-111-how-to-work-smart-with-change-avoiders/feed/ 1:50 When it comes to change, psychologists tell us that about 30% of people instinctively dig in and fight to avoid the change. It's as if ... When it comes to change, psychologists tell us that about 30% of people instinctively dig in and fight to avoid the change. It's as if wiring inside of them sets off a warning alarm that clamors, "Something is about to be taken away from me!" How can you work best with these Change Avoiders? Here are 12 smart ideas: Try to pinpoint specific reasons for resistance to a particular change. Listen and try to understand their concerns ndash; their pessimism in this case may be well founded. Respect that their resistance can be based on both feelings and past experiences. Provide training and opportunities for new positive experiences. Keep your word. Partner them with people who have embraced the new change. Avoid giving them a high visibility position assuming the change will "bring them around" faster. Avoid the trap of devoting more energy to this group than to the Embracers and Acceptors. Accept that it's unlikely you'll gain the support of everyone. Don't back them into a corner that forces them to "prove" your idea won't work. Never tolerate insubordination or sabotage that undermines the organization. Smile more. If you would like a list of these 12 smart tips for working with Change Avoiders, be sure to copy it from the Smarter by the Minute web site at DAER.com. And for a copy of all 3 sets of smart tips, just e-mail us at Doug@DougSmart.com. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/27/episode-110-how-to-work-smart-with-change-acceptors/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/27/episode-110-how-to-work-smart-with-change-acceptors/#comments Tue, 27 Mar 2007 13:36:06 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/27/episode-110-how-to-work-smart-with-change-acceptors/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/27/episode-110-how-to-work-smart-with-change-acceptors/feed/ 1:35 To cope with the stress of change, about 50% of people are willing to change but they are extra cautious. They want to feel comfortable ... To cope with the stress of change, about 50% of people are willing to change but they are extra cautious. They want to feel comfortable with a new idea before committing to it, that is, before they accept it. How can you work best with these cautious Change Acceptors? Here are 10 smart ideas: Respect their reluctance and do not attempt intimidating them into accepting change. If appropriate, propose the change as a 5 week experiment. Offer encouragement, reassurance and training. Offer evidence and endorsements that support the rationale for the change. Be honest in your communication; yet err on the side of optimism. Give them something to believe in. Show genuine appreciation for their efforts to make the change work. Don't penalize for "failure." Share success stories and evidence that the change is working as expected (or better). For "Change Acceptors" who enjoy the spotlight, publicly endorse their personal successes. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/15/episode-109-how-to-work-smart-with-change-embracers/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/15/episode-109-how-to-work-smart-with-change-embracers/#comments Thu, 15 Mar 2007 10:30:49 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/15/episode-109-how-to-work-smart-with-change-embracers/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/15/episode-109-how-to-work-smart-with-change-embracers/feed/ 00:01:01 Change can be stressful to everyone. However, psychologists tell us about 20% of people generally enjoy change. If a new idea sounds solid to them, ... Change can be stressful to everyone. However, psychologists tell us about 20% of people generally enjoy change. If a new idea sounds solid to them, they can quickly make peace with their comfort zones and get on board. OK, so when you have a terrific idea that you want the team to accept, how can you work best with these Change Embracers? Here are 10 smart ideas: Talk with them before a meeting and get their support before you "go public." Enlist their aid in winning over others. Let their enthusiasm be a guiding light for others. Specifically ask for their input to improve your new idea. If qualified, give them lead roles. NEVER take them for granted. Reward their willingness to risk. Stay loyal to them. Talk in terms of benefits ndash; both personally and professionally. Publicly celebrate the successes of the Change Embracers, as this tends to demonstrate to others that change is not as scary as it feels. If you would like a list of these 10 smart tips for working with Change Embracers, be sure to copy it from the Smarter by the Minute web site. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/13/episode-108-timesmart-training-starts-at-home/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/13/episode-108-timesmart-training-starts-at-home/#comments Tue, 13 Mar 2007 16:24:34 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/13/episode-108-timesmart-training-starts-at-home/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/13/episode-108-timesmart-training-starts-at-home/feed/ 1:40 One of the seminars I lead is called TimeSmart: What to Do When You Have More to Do Than There is Time to Do It ... One of the seminars I lead is called TimeSmart: What to Do When You Have More to Do Than There is Time to Do It In and typically I ask audience members to share with us time management tips that help them succeed in today's hyper world. Surprisingly, a lot of the tips offered are for time management at home! My wife and I collected them into a book titled, TimeSmart. I have a neat one to share with you today. Teri Maun of Tulsa ahs a delightful way of teaching her children how to be ready in the morning in a relaxed unrushed way. Terri says friends call it the Maun Method. She says, fifteen minutes before bedtime each night, as a family they do the following: Each child's school clothes are hung on the closet door. Mom does, too. And the rule is, they may not change their minds in the morning ndash; including Mom. Backpacks are filled and put by the front door. Lunches and snacks are made and put in the refrigerator. The table is set with bowls and cereal boxes for breakfast. Than a short list of anything special needed for school ndash; with those items ndash; is set on the table by the bowls. You cannot come down to breakfast until completely dressed Once you walk out the door to the car, there is no going back in. That includes Mom, too, That's it. Isn't more civilized than the morning madness many of us face? Teri is a smart Mom. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/01/episode-107-how-healthy-is-it-to-compare-ourselves-to-each-other/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/01/episode-107-how-healthy-is-it-to-compare-ourselves-to-each-other/#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2007 13:25:01 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/01/episode-107-how-healthy-is-it-to-compare-ourselves-to-each-other/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/03/01/episode-107-how-healthy-is-it-to-compare-ourselves-to-each-other/feed/ 1:43 Recently I did a segment on our natural, human tendency to compare ourselves with others. Listeners in Calgary and Cleveland e-mailed that we just should ... Recently I did a segment on our natural, human tendency to compare ourselves with others. Listeners in Calgary and Cleveland e-mailed that we just should never make comparisons at all because each of us is unique. To that I say, I agree with the unique part, but let's not get crazy here. It's human nature to compare ourselves to other people. It's one way we quickly discover what we are capable of without having to make every mistake possible. Queen Elizabeth II said about her family, "We learned the way a monkey learns ndash; by watching its parents." Observing others is also healthy for developing careers, much like it's healthy for organizations to benchmark the best practices of companies who do similar work. However, I caution my listeners to not make comparisons that bring them down, such as: "Larry is great at presenting ideas and getting managers to agree with him. I'm not. I'll never be as good as Larry. Why waste my time trying?" That unhealthy thinking stops a person cold. I think it's smarter to take control: "I'm not Larry, but I like the professional way he presents ideas. I'm going to speak up more often until I learn how to present ideas just as well ndash; or better!" Here's something else, if you want to motivate someone to improve, especially a child, never tell him he should be like someone else. He'll resent it just as much as you do. Instead, talk about developing the talents you recognize in him. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/27/episode-106-looking-ahead-on-the-big-things/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/27/episode-106-looking-ahead-on-the-big-things/#comments Tue, 27 Feb 2007 17:06:10 +0000 admin 139062390 http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/27/episode-106-looking-ahead-on-the-big-things/feed/ 1:34 A teenager was boasting to a police officer how he bought a car with an awesome engine that could powerfully out run any patrol car. ... A teenager was boasting to a police officer how he bought a car with an awesome engine that could powerfully out run any patrol car. The boy had done his homework. He cited remarkable statistics about engine size, configuration and horsepower. The policeman listened intently, even nodded his head a few times. When the young man finished, the officer calmly informed him, "Impressive. But I've never seen one yet that could out run a radio." Ooops! The teen got so focused on getting something big he forgot to look ahead. Business professionals sometimes do that, too. We concentrate on getting the promotion or landing an account and sometimes we forget to look ahead. Maybe the tradeoff for the promotion is that now you'll work 10 hours a week more. Maybe the tradeoff for the big account is that you'll have to let go of a smaller account you love working on. Dr. Wayne Dyer wrote, "There are no right or wrong business decisions, only ones with different potential outcomes." When you have your sights set on something big, it's smart to look ahead to the potential outcomes that'll start clicking in the right after you succeed. I have a gift for you. For a free subscription to my monthly e-newsletter, SMART IDEAS for Leaders, click on Smarter by the Minute at DougSmart.com. The newsletter is free. I look forward to hearing from you! Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/22/episode-105-unfair-comparisons-are-unreasonable/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/22/episode-105-unfair-comparisons-are-unreasonable/#comments Thu, 22 Feb 2007 10:30:47 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/22/episode-105-unfair-comparisons-are-unreasonable/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/22/episode-105-unfair-comparisons-are-unreasonable/feed/ 1:40 I bet you hated it when your mother asked, "Why can't you be more like your sister?" That's a good line for seeding an ulcer ... I bet you hated it when your mother asked, "Why can't you be more like your sister?" That's a good line for seeding an ulcer in a young stomach. But you know what? Many professionals twist their stomachs into perpetual pretzels by constantly reminding themselves they are not as good as other people at work. They make unfair comparisons that are unreasonable. Here are some examples: "I don't have patience like Susan for training new employees." "I can't think fast like Tony when it comes to working with customer complaints." "I wish I had money like Pat, then I wouldn't be stuck here." The challenge is you're comparing their peak to your valley, their fantastic to your okay, their Ferrari to your Ford, and, of course, you come across as the perpetual second runner up. How's that for ulcer food? I think it's smarter to see them as proof that what you want is obtainable and that, if you really want it, you need to figure out how to get it, too. For example, reframe the comparisons like this: "I admire Susan's patience. I'm going to practice having patience like Susan." "If Tony can train himself to think fast, then I can, too, because I'm good at solving challenges. I'm going to get more experience in public speaking." "Pat knows some things about making money that I don't. I'm going to ask her what books and magazines she reads about investing." I say it's smart to use comparisons when they light your path. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/20/episode-104-i-wish-i-knew-then-what-i-know-now/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/20/episode-104-i-wish-i-knew-then-what-i-know-now/#comments Tue, 20 Feb 2007 10:30:03 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/20/episode-104-i-wish-i-knew-then-what-i-know-now/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/20/episode-104-i-wish-i-knew-then-what-i-know-now/feed/ 1:36 Sometimes it takes years, but eventually we all learn valuable lessons. Here are some things I wish I had known years ago. Now ... Sometimes it takes years, but eventually we all learn valuable lessons. Here are some things I wish I had known years ago. Now I know that no matter how hard I try to please others, some people will refuse to be pleased. And at that point it's their problem, not mine. Now I know that I am 50% of every relationship, no matter how powerful the other person is. I can never be more, but I can pretend to be less. Now I know it's up to me to teach people how I want to be treated and that people will never give me any more respect than I am willing to give myself. Now I know that if somebody offers me something, and I want it, instead of politely saying, "No," it's smart to say, "Yes, I'll take it. Thank you." Now I know that whenever I propose a positive change, I'll get 3 responses. Some will embrace it, others will cautiously accept it, and the rest will instantly resist it. It's smart for me to first win over the embracers and acceptors and then together we will work on the resisters. I want to pass along some other smart ideas to you. For a free subscription to SMART IDEAS for Leaders monthly e-newsletter, click on Smarter by the Minute at the DAER site and then click on "Talk Back to Doug." The newsletter is free. I look forward to hearing from you! Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/15/episode-103-people-will-pay-well-for-anything-you-do-above-average/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/15/episode-103-people-will-pay-well-for-anything-you-do-above-average/#comments Thu, 15 Feb 2007 10:30:57 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/15/episode-103-people-will-pay-well-for-anything-you-do-above-average/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/15/episode-103-people-will-pay-well-for-anything-you-do-above-average/feed/ 1:46 Erica Jong wrote, "Everyone has a talent. What is rare is the courage to nurture it." And here was a teenager who asked earnestly how ... Erica Jong wrote, "Everyone has a talent. What is rare is the courage to nurture it." And here was a teenager who asked earnestly how she could become a success because she believed she was talent-less. I replied, "I know you have talents." She frowned, said, "No," and got ready to defend her position, so I cut her off by asking, "What is something you love to do? It could be dancing, swimming, drawing, singing, problem solving, writing news for the school paper, organizing food drives at church, coordinating fashions, caring for animals or any of hundreds of things. What ever it is, keep doing it until you are better than most people in your school. You don't have to be the best, but you have to be above average. Later, when you are out of school, keep doing it until you are better than most people in your business. You don't have to be the best, but you have to be above average. People will pay well for anything you can do that's above average." That was my advice to her. I hope it resonated. I believe that where a person's heart is where her moneymaking talent is. And that most people dismiss their talents as insignificant because they see a few people who are better skilled. I like the advice of Henry van Dyke, who wrote, "Use what talent you possess. The woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang best." Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/06/episode-102-e-mail-savvy-how-to-get-your-e-mails-read/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/06/episode-102-e-mail-savvy-how-to-get-your-e-mails-read/#comments Tue, 06 Feb 2007 10:30:50 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/06/episode-102-e-mail-savvy-how-to-get-your-e-mails-read/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/06/episode-102-e-mail-savvy-how-to-get-your-e-mails-read/feed/ 1:45 Millions of e-mails are clicked into cyberspace every day. So what can you do to help ensure that your e-mails get read and responded to? ... Millions of e-mails are clicked into cyberspace every day. So what can you do to help ensure that your e-mails get read and responded to? Get ready, because in hyper speed, here come eight smart ideas for teaching others that your e-mails are important. Include your name ndash; not just your e-mail address ndash; on the sender line. If they don't recognize whom it's from, busy people might consider it junk mail. Tag your outgoing messages "urgent" only you mean it. Ever hear the one about the boy who cried "wolf?" Put a title on the subject line that describes what's in your message. And update the title every time you respond. As the message evolves, let the title grow up, too. Be brief. Like any good business writing, get to the point right away. Use facts and examples to strengthen your points. Never forward trash, chain letters, or offers about how Microsoft will pay money just for reading e-mails. All that stuff makes you look like a fool. Pay attention to grammar. Some people think that skipping capitalization, commas and periods is cute. I think it's stupid and unprofessional. Favor a positive tone of voice in your writing. A negative slant is just as dreary in e-mail as it is over a cup of coffee. In your e-mail, always make clear what you want the reader to do as the next step. It's smart to be a spotlight of clarity on an Information Highway that got congested too fast. Podcast Doug Smart no No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/01/episode-101-fostering-the-respect-you-deserve/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/01/episode-101-fostering-the-respect-you-deserve/#comments Thu, 01 Feb 2007 10:30:54 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/01/episode-101-fostering-the-respect-you-deserve/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/02/01/episode-101-fostering-the-respect-you-deserve/feed/ 1:49 For some people, respect is something they hope happens. But smart leaders know, respect is something that is carefully nurtured like a fragile seedling, and ... For some people, respect is something they hope happens. But smart leaders know, respect is something that is carefully nurtured like a fragile seedling, and that even when it's roots are established, respect still needs regular care and feeding so that it stays strong and healthy. How do you encourage seeds of mutual respect to mature into strong oaks? Here are 4 necessary ingredients. If you are missing any or let some go unrepaired, you risk missing out on satisfying relationships based on healthy respect. To get respect you have to give respect. Be willing to really trust the other person. People respect and appreciate when you take a risk on them. Be a good listener. It's universal: people want to feel that they are heard. I'll tell you right now, you have little patience and even less respect for people who refuse to listen to you. So being a great listener is important. To earn respect you also have to be above average in something. Think of the people you have high respect for. They are ordinary people who have a few above average qualities. For example, a respected mother demonstrates sky-high loyalty for her child. A respected boss has earned recognition for sales, productivity or dedication. A respected co-worker keeps her word. We all respect those who work hard at becoming better than average in a few things. Practice all 4 of these and you'll find the effort you invest will grow great results of strong mutual respect. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/30/episode-100-emergency-911/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/30/episode-100-emergency-911/#comments Tue, 30 Jan 2007 10:30:09 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/30/episode-100-emergency-911/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/30/episode-100-emergency-911/feed/ 1:43 Oh, the things people put up with to make a living! If you've been in business long, I know you hear some crazy requests. The ... Oh, the things people put up with to make a living! If you've been in business long, I know you hear some crazy requests. The 911 operators do. I was hired to lead a creativity seminar for city workers in Charlotte, North Carolina, including 911 operators. They told me some funny stories that I'll share with you. (For our listeners outside of the United States, 911 is the direct phone number for emergency help, including police.) Caller: "Please call my house at 5 a.m." 911: "Why?" Caller: "I need a wake up call." 911: "We don't do that." Caller: "Since you're up all night anyhow, I thought you could give me a wake-up call." Caller: "I need to take milk with my medicine. Send a patrolman over with some milk." 911: "Ma'am, do you have family who can bring the milk to you?" Caller: "Yes, but I don't want to bother them at this time of night." A frightened security guard at a store coaxed rowdy kids out of the store, locked the door and reported them. The 911 operator asked, "Will you be there to let the officer in?" "No," he whispered, "I'm going to hide." You have had some strange calls from customers, too. I'd love to hear and share them. E-mail me with your stories, Doug@SmarterbytheMinute.com Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/25/episode-99-is-direct-eye-contact-impolite/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/25/episode-99-is-direct-eye-contact-impolite/#comments Thu, 25 Jan 2007 10:30:41 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/25/episode-99-is-direct-eye-contact-impolite/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/25/episode-99-is-direct-eye-contact-impolite/feed/ 00:01:01 Recently, I recommended that if you don't look people in the eye when talking, you could unconsciously send subtle signals that you are devious, untrustworthy, ... Recently, I recommended that if you don't look people in the eye when talking, you could unconsciously send subtle signals that you are devious, untrustworthy, or lack confidence. Sharon in Seattle wrote, "In some cultures direct eye contact is considered impolite. Sometimes it's disrespectful to look into people's eyes." Thanks for your e-mail, Sharon. It brought back something that happened to me years ago and taught me an unforgettable lesson. Trying extra hard to be polite, I used to avoid looking in the eyes of Asian people, that is, until an acquaintance of Asian ancestry clobbered me with, "Doug, you are a racist." She said, "You won't look at me when you talk to me and I don't like it. You're assuming all Asian people are the same. We are not. When you refuse to look Asians in the eyes you are making judgments based on race. That's not right. We are not all the same." That was an eye-opener. Here's how I handle it now. When I travel, I demonstrate respect by following local customs. But when I'm home in America, I treat everyone the same. In American business, we expect honest, caring people to make eye contact. The custom here is to look people in the eyes. So that's what I do. If the other person shows signs of being uncomfortable with that, than I choose to tone down the direct eye contact. But it's a conscious decision, not a knee-jerk reaction based on a person's ancestry. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/23/episode-98-create-your-own-think-tank/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/23/episode-98-create-your-own-think-tank/#comments Tue, 23 Jan 2007 10:30:54 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/23/episode-98-create-your-own-think-tank/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/23/episode-98-create-your-own-think-tank/feed/ 1:39 Greg Vetter, a productivity consultant in Atlanta, whose client list includes Cocoa-Cola, recommends, "To learn lsquo;best practices' fast without having to make a lot of ... Greg Vetter, a productivity consultant in Atlanta, whose client list includes Cocoa-Cola, recommends, "To learn lsquo;best practices' fast without having to make a lot of frustrating mistakes along the way, start a lsquo;Mastermind Group.'" Greg has started a think tank of professionals who do work similar to him, some are even his competitors. "It's smart to start a think tank," says Greg, "to germinate new ideas, freshen up old ideas and to learn success secrets others have stumbled on the hard way." His group meets once a month for two hours and the members take turns as chairperson. Every meeting has a theme, an agenda and each person contributes at least one idea that they have personally found works or doesn't work. The gatherings are up-beat, fast-paced and fluff is not tolerated. People are expected to bring handouts for each other if the topic is something visual, such as critiquing marketing materials or designing web pages. And every meeting includes 35 minutes of open forum for asking for solutions to challenges, such as how to find a great printer at a reasonable cost or draw more traffic to a web site. And what about competitors working together? Greg says, "We may occasionally compete for an account but the bottom line is, the higher we raise the level of professionalism amongst ourselves, the better it is for all clients and us." Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/18/episode-97-choosing-positivity/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/18/episode-97-choosing-positivity/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:30:08 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/18/episode-97-choosing-positivity/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/18/episode-97-choosing-positivity/feed/ 00:01:01 Negativity is everywhere and most people don't even realize they are contributing. For example, when co-workers get together for a coffee break, it's considered normal ... Negativity is everywhere and most people don't even realize they are contributing. For example, when co-workers get together for a coffee break, it's considered normal to complain, "I didn't even want to get out of bed this morning!" But let someone join the group saying, "Good Morning, everyone! My life is wonderful!" and people start muttering, "what's the matter with her?" Jack Canfield, who co-authored Chicken Soup for the Soul, says you and I talk to ourselves 70,000 times a day! Dr. Shad Helmstetter says as much as 80% of that personal, private self-talk is negative. Too quickly, we box ourselves in with, "Oh no, I couldn't. That never works for me. I'm not smart enough, talented enough or good looking enough." I say, choose to substitute positivity for negativity. For instance, instead of grumbling about the weather (something you can't do anything about), talk positively and appreciatively about your good health and best opportunities (both of which you impact daily). Talk about the good in others, not the bad. Focus more of your energy on accomplishing positive results in business and invest less energy in tolerating negative shortcomings. Think about finding ways to get more of what makes you happy and spend less time thinking about how things make you unhappy. This positions you in a positive, pro-active mode instead of a being cramped in a reactive defensive box. I say, when negativity is everywhere, choosing positivity is smart for you. Podcast Doug Smart clean No http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/16/episode-96-n-is-for-nod/ http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/16/episode-96-n-is-for-nod/#comments Tue, 16 Jan 2007 10:30:09 +0000 admin http://smarterbytheminute.com/2007/01/16/episode-96-n-is-for-nod/