Orrin Woodward Team Resources

Orrin Woodward- Scams, Coercion, And Network Marketing-Part 1

2011-10-29T19:43:00.000-04:00

Today we're going to revisit Orrin Woodward's extensive article on Scams, Coercion, And Network Marketing. As a system engineer Orrin never commits to anything without having all the details understood; this article reflects that attention to detail. His involvement with networking had to also satisfy his moral standards and it's apparent he did his due diligence. Read and enjoy the detail of his research!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Scams, Coercion, & Networking
Part 1

This video describes me as a senior engineer at GM, working my way up the corporate ladder only to find it was leaning against the wrong wall. So glad I fell into Networking, Free Enterprise and Win-Win principles! Freedom is a leadership choice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNI--ULZ-dM&feature=player_embedded&noredirect=1

I have spent the last several years studying the scams, schemes, and cons perpetrated on the American masses through the use of coercion. As a Top 10 Leadership Guru, I cannot sit by idly and watch Americans lose their freedoms without speaking up. No scam can last unless backed by a monopoly of force/coercion. Government is the only true monopoly of force available in any society. Coercion requires force, which involves either government intervention or mafia type tactics. Free enterprise businesses, like Network Marketing, cannot be a scam, since people are free to come and free to go, they will simply leave and the scam will collapse. Government scams like social security, income taxes, and fiat money inflation, to name just a few, take advantage of the masses, since the masses are forced to participate against their will, whether their needs are being met or not. Learning and defending American freedoms, against the encroachment of coercive government interventions, has become a key educational plank in my readings, writings and speeches of late.

Scams coerce participation

If someone attempts a scam, without the power of coercion, it will not last. For example, if someone attempted to sell a property for twice the market rate, perhaps a clueless customer would fall for it, but it couldn’t last as the market will quickly identify the offending party and avoid any business dealing with him. But who can avoid business dealings with an all pervasive government? Who can opt out of social security? Who can opt out of excessive taxes? Who can opt out of the government’s fiat money? Scams require force to continue the scheme over the long term. I have spent years of my life, studying and calling out scams to help educate Americans on the work cut out for us to eliminate the government supported scams through the American system of representative government.

In fact, Murray Rothbard, the late Dean of the Austrian School of Economics, the economics school with the best track record in predicting the effects of government intervention in free economies, stated:

But, above all, the crucial monopoly is the State’s control of the use of violence: of the police and armed services, and of the courts—the locus of ultimate decision-making power in disputes over crimes and contracts. Control of the police and the army is particularly important in enforcing and assuring all of the State’s other powers, including the all-important power to extract its revenue by coercion.

For there is one crucially important power inherent in the nature of the State apparatus. All other persons and groups in society (except for acknowledged and sporadic criminals such as thieves and bank robbers) obtain their income voluntarily: either by selling goods and services to the consuming public, or by voluntary gift (e.g., membership in a club or association, bequest, or inheritance). Only the State obtains its revenue by coercion, by threatening dire penalties should the income not be forthcoming. That coercion is known as “taxation,” although in less regularized epochs it was often known as “tribute.” Taxation is theft, purely and simply even though it is theft on a grand and colossal scale which no acknowledged criminals could hope to match. It is a compulsory seizure of the property of the State’s inhabitants, or subjects.

Many will call Network Marketing a scam, but unless backed by government coercion, meaning people are not free to leave, Networking cannot be a scam. On the contrary, Networking is the purest example of free enterprise left in the Western world. People win or lost on their efforts, not government protection of the profession. Wherever you see someone producing long term sustainable results in Networking, you know that a leader is building a winning culture that works. Networking has been around for well over sixty years, and scams cannot last that long unless backed by some form of government coercion. In Networking, some will win, and some will lose, but that simply defines life, not a scam.

Gabriel Kolko, a New Left leaning historian, described why the US government intervened with business at the turn of the 20th century, "Ironically, contrary to the consensus of historians, it was not the existence of monopoly that caused the federal government to intervene in the economy, but the lack of it."

Big Businesses built huge Trust in each field, in an attempt to control market prices, squeezing extra profits from consumers in the scam, but it didn't work. Big Business (Morgan, Rockefellers, etc), ended up running to Big Government, using government's monopoly of force to regulate industries and create extra profits for themselves. This is a scam on every consumer in every field affected and why I cannot remain quiet.

I love my business relationship with Dallin Larsen and MonaVie, and I have friends in many other Networking companies. What I enjoy about our profession is the right for any company to create a better business model and compete in free enterprise. There are no huge Trusts in Networking. Let the best company and community win period, without the aid of government to stack the deck in Big Businesses favor. There are many great companies and leaders in Networking and the more we lift one another, the more the Networking tide rises for all in our profession. I don’t have to attack another enterprise in order to build my own. If you really believe in your Networking business, just build it, allowing your actions to speak louder than your words. Leaders will flock from around the world if you have truly created a better business model. Any business that has been successful over the years, if not the decades, must be serving their customers in order to survive in a true free enterprise model.

Orrin Woodward

Timeless Words!

2011-10-05T21:57:00.000-04:00

This little Orrin Woodward ditty is short but sweet. The weight of these words spoke volumes to me. I hope you have the same reaction!

Enjoy
Capt. Bill

While flying to Florida from Michigan, two thoughts popped into my head that I turned into quotes. I have been thinking about our responsibilities to God and the importance of having ideals in your life. America is at the crossroads due to many citizens lack of responsibility and ideals. Both of these quotes clarified my thinking on these important subjects and I hope they do the same for you. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

If the citizens will not willingly surrender their rights to their responsibilities in Godly obedience—they will be seduced into servitude by Godless dictators of disobedience – Orrin Woodward

I would rather have ideals and be accused of hypocrisy than have no ideals and be praised for sincerity – Orrin Woodward

Life Adversity Quotient!

2011-09-24T10:06:00.001-04:00

Orrin Woodward is about to release his latest and first solo authored book. I'm proud to say he's given us access to little snippets, teasers if you will, for the upcoming launch. I'm going to make a bold prediction and announce, (based on what I've already read), that this book is destined for the best seller's list! Just below is one of those precious snippets!

Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

From RESOLVED: 13 Resolutions for LIFE -Orrin Woodward
Another compromise that leads to failure and despair is an improper response to the pain inherent in the process of growth. There are actually two types of pain: one comes from the inside due to the change process; the other comes from the outside due to criticism from those unwilling to make the same changes. Hope is the only fuel capable of burning through both types of pain. Without hope, either of the pain versions will trump one’s willingness to endure, instead choosing to stop the pain by quitting the journey. Author Robert Grudin writes, “One might reply that most people who surrender simply lack the ability to get very far. But it is more accurate to say that ability and intelligence, rightly understood, include a readiness to face pain, while those characteristics which we loosely term ‘inadequacy’ and ‘ignorance’ are typically associated with the avoidance of pain.” When the pain reaches a certain threshold, everything inside of a person screams for relief, but champions, people with high AQ, persevere. Pain is overcome through the continuous focus on one’s purpose. Moreover, achieving greatness will require a faith that can move mountains, an AQ to endure the rising pain in the process, eventually reaching levels of success that more timid souls refuse to believe possible.

Grudin elaborates on the outside pain given to achievers as an unjust reward for their quest for personal excellence:

Modern society has evolved an idiomatic defense of non-achievement so subtle and elegant that it almost makes failure attractive. We can equivocate with failure by saying that we could not stand “the pressure”. We can inflate mediocrity by calling cow colleges universities, by naming herds of middle-level executives vice presidents or partners, and by a thousand other sorts of venal hype. We can invert the moral standard by defending a fellow non-achiever as being too sensitive or even too good for the chosen arena. This double rejection of pain—a surrender sanctified by a euphemism—has in our time achieved institutional status. Because it includes its own anti-morality, it can be passed on with pride from generation to generation. Other ages may have been as full of non-achievers as ours, but no other age, I believe, has developed so comprehensive a rhetoric of failure. To conclude, then: those people in quest of intellectual dignity and independence in the late twentieth century must act in a cultural context that has done its best to annul or camouflage one of the key elements in the quest, the challenge of pain. For this reason such people currently labor under a double burden: they must face the pains inherent in their task, and they must do so in a culture that has little appreciation for their suffering.

Today’s achievers then, handle not only the traditional pain associated with excellence, but the additional pain associated with the envious prattle of today’s internet age non-achievers. Champions understand that it’s better to be mocked and criticized by non-achievers, than to become a non-achiever themselves.

AQ can be developed, but only through discarding excuses, rejecting compromises, and choosing to feed one’s faith, not one’s fears. In order to achieve dreams, people must willingly surrender who they are, to become who they dream to be. One cannot have his cake and eat it too. AQ refuses to surrender personal responsibility (what one desires) to an impersonal environment (what is offered). Bestselling author Chris Brady, in his book Rascal, articulates what it takes to break free the herd, “It takes character to be different. It takes character to stand apart from the masses for legitimate, purposeful reasons. It takes character to be who God called you to be without succumbing to the pressures of others and their ideas of who you should be and how you should live. For those who embody this concept and live a truly authentic life, we will assign the name of Rascal.” People with AQ are Rascals, refusing to be lulled to sleep by comfort, choosing instead, to pursue their convictions over conveniences. Rascals pay the temporary price of pain for success, rather than pay the permanent price of regret for failure.

An Announcement From The Bridge!

2011-08-27T18:40:00.001-04:00

Special Announcement: On October 3, Blogharbor will be closing its doors, my blog will be moving over to WordPress. All of the relevant leadership material will migrate with me. :) -Orrin Woodward

And here's a sample of what we have to look forward to!
Capt. Bill

One of the TEAM differences is our culture of conflict resolution. When leaders have issues with one another (a given in our fallen world) we teach a 5 step process of conflict resolution. This process works every time two leaders of character practice the process. Indeed, the only time I have seen this process fail is when one or both leaders lack the courage to follow it. For when they refuse to follow the conflict resolution process, communication triangulation results, leaving friendships and communities to suffer the consequences from the alleged leaders lack of humility. This is a portion of the chapter on conflict resolution in my upcoming book RESOLVED: 13 Resolutions for LIFE. Sincerely, Orrin Woodward

Communication Triangulation 

When dealing with conflict, don’t fall victim to communication triangulation, a vile process where people attempt to draw others into gossip from their unresolved conflict. As Joseph Stowell writes, “The ‘juicy morsels’ stay with us, permanently staining our perceptions of and appreciation for those about whom we are hearing. The vicious chain of gossip continues until it finally comes up against someone willing to stop spreading information about feuding factions and start praying. Only then will the fire die down.” Why would anyone willingly choose to help assassinate one of his friends by listening to gossip? Unless a person is asking another to help mediate a resolution, in which the mediator hears both sides of the story, the person is simply gossiping, no matter what the gossiper’s claimed intentions. Instead of falling victim to this sickness, follow the process described by Kibbie Ruth and Karen McClintock, of Alban.org, keeping the focus on resolving conflict, not furthering gossiping and taking sides:

While people often suggest that venting is good for the soul, it is actually not very productive. Venting to someone about a third person is simply an avoidance technique that creates what is known in counseling theory as a relationship triangle, or triangulation. Triangulation is talking about feelings, opinions, or personal issues regarding some person or group with a third party instead of with the person or group actually concerned. Relationship triangles usually involve three people who each take one of three roles: victim, persecutor, and rescuer. Once in a triangle, people change places among its three points. The only way to stop the triangulation is for each person to communicate his or her feelings, concerns, or opinions directly to the other.  Of course, the best communication strategy is to avoid being recruited into a triangle in the first place. But so often well-intentioned faith leaders and congregants listen to another person’s concerns, feelings, or opinions, then realize they inadvertently let themselves be co-opted into involvement, sometimes even taking sides. Once in a triangle, escape may take some courage and clarity but is possible. The triangulated person can redirect the other person straight to the appropriate individual or committee—the one actually involved in the personal issues or the one that can address the concern or mend the relationship. A three-way conversation sometimes helps, but only if the third party facilitates without taking sides or having an agenda, without speaking for one of the other parties, and without adding to the emotional drama.

The gossiper quickly learns that communication triangulation isn’t condoned in the community, and that if the gossiper refuses to go directly to the person he has gossiped about then he will be called out by being quoted. This does two key things. First, it let’s everyone know that one isn’t a gossiper. Second, by protecting the party not present, one builds trust throughout the organization, as others know that one will do the same for them when needed. Through these actions a person displays his scorn for gossipers, refusing to be drawn in to a foolish losing triangulation game. Only through addressing conflict directly does the merry-go-round of gossip and lies end. Organizations cannot thrive in a negative environment, therefore, the gossiping garbage must be cleaned out of, not cultivated within, one’s community.

A Fork In The Road!

2011-07-05T19:33:00.000-04:00

I love this post of Orrin's, I hope you enjoy his insight on leadership and community building.
Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

It’s before 7 AM, on a foggy Saturday morning, and my mind is mulling over the personal development habits that produce champions. Every person reading this blog, everyone, without exception, can become a champion by changing his daily habits. One of the problems in life, probably due to the Biblical fall of man, is that bad habits are easy to develop, while good habits are hard to develop. Think about it, no one ever creates a plan to get out of shape, but many have performed the task admirably, myself included. On the other hand, there have been seasons in my life, where through discipline, I have been in great shape. I know that I can do both, but one takes constant discipline, the other doesn’t. How many things in life is this true of? Do you pick whatever habits feel good at the moment, accepting whatever long term results that come with it, or contrarily, do you choose the habits that are inconvenient in the moment, but produce the long term results that you desire in life. Today, as you read this, you stand at a fork in the road. If you haven’t produced the results that you yearn for, look no further than your daily habits. Look at your road. Can you see the long term results developing from your habits? Are you happy with these results in your life? If you are, then forge ahead, but if you aren’t, then perhaps today is the day, in which you take a different road.

The champions road is available to all, and nearly all would love the results of a championship life, not just the monetary rewards, although that doesn’t hurt :), as much as the feeling of satisfaction created by a life well lived. One may be thinking, if that is true, then why don’t more people choose the success path? Simply put, the path is uninviting, having briars, thorns, and burrs scattered over the trail. In fact, it’s hard to even recognize the fork in the roads, since the success road is loaded with painful reminders that it’s off the beaten trail. Even the people who truly want to change, will suffer greatly from walking down the “road less traveled”, wondering if they made the right choice as they are poked again and again by the burrs, thorns and pickers. This is the moment of truth in one’s life. Do you turn back, yielding to the pain of the moment by surrendering your dreams for the comfort of the well traveled road to mediocrity? Most people who start on the success road will not finish, turning back when the going gets tough, but that doesn’t have to be your destiny, because you don’t have to be like “most people”.

I have walked down both roads at different seasons in my life, learning many lesson along the way. I learned that the success road in life is hard, don’t let anyone mislead you on this point, requiring a pain tolerance beyond what most people are willing to endure in our pampered age, but, over time, the road will get progressively easier. Conversely, the road to mediocrity is easy, requiring little upfront pain, with plenty of company to encourage you on your road to mediocrity, but, over time, the road will get progressively harder. With each mile, the mediocrity path becomes more of a burden, drinking to its dregs from the ‘purposeless life’ cup. The road to mediocrity becomes littered with hurting people, dealing with the pain of their self centered lives. By focusing only on their own challenges, having no time to serve the hurting people around them, suffering from the regret filled pain of a purposeless life, the road to mediocrity becomes a long walk of quiet desperation. Don’t let the fabled ease and comfort of the road to mediocrity fool you as life has its price that must be paid in full, either a life full of discipline or full of regret, the choice is yours.

Winners choose the success road, enduring the hardships, knowing that success lies on the other side of the pain, while others choose the mediocrity road, seeing only the perceived comfort, believing the lie, that life can be lived successfully without paying a price. Sadly, it’s only after many wasted years, that people realize, that from listening to the wrong people (the masses living in mediocrity), that they have sold God’s purpose filled plan for self’s pampered filled pretensions. The good news is that it doesn’t have to end this way. At any moment in time, one can get off the road of mediocrity and find the straight and narrow path, leading to success.

By finding a mentor, one who has walked further down the road of success, one finds, not only a friend, but a model, an example of someone who endured the pain to live a life of significance. I learned from my mentors, that if they can journey down the success road, then I can too, leaving behind my habits of mediocrity and replacing with the habits of success. Where are you on life’s journey? What road are you traveling on? Are you living with discipline or with regret? Perhaps you are you ready to find a different road, discovering the fork that leads to purpose filled success? It’s your life, it’s your choice, and it’s your pain, either discipline or regret. Choose wisely. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

EQ

2011-06-21T21:53:00.000-04:00

More spectacular thoughts from leadership guru Orrin Woodward! I love his style of mentoring, it's incredible teaching.
Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

When each of the five attitude enhancers, along with adding a strength of will, is applied to life, one develops a strong emotional intelligence quotient. All of us have heard of IQ - Intelligence Quotient, but only a few of us have heard of EQ - Emotional Quotient. When it comes to success, EQ is more important than IQ. The world is full of unsuccessful people who have a high IQ, but when a person develops high EQ, doors are opened for them. EQ is the ability to maintain your cool while others around you are losing theirs, a grace under pressure. EQ requires proper communication between the emotional and the rational centers of the brain. The physical pathway of the senses into the brain travel through the spinal cord to the back of the brain, moving into the center limbic system (where you feel), finally moving to the front rational system (where you think). Since all senses go through the feeling limbic portion before the rational brain, it’s easy to respond emotionally without allowing yourself time to rationally develop the proper response. Look at the top NFL quarterbacks over the years, the Staubachs, Elways, and Montanas, all of them had EQ, a poise and confidence in their abilities, even with time running out and the game on the line, each responded with his entire brain, not just with emotional feelings. Without EQ, people succumb to pressures, blaming others, and blowing up, creating chaos along with lack of results. Every world class leader must have EQ, thinking through situations, even when others start to panic, since panic is not a good strategy. EQ begins with having a good attitude, but it move beyond it. EQ includes a strength of will that stands strong regardless of the situation, a strength of mind that forces the brain to think instead of entering ‘fight or flight’ mode.

The greatest athletes and leaders all have a poise about them that strengthens the resolve of all of those following the leader. No great achievement can be fulfilled without leaders of great attitude and great EQ. The good news is that EQ, like a muscle, can be developed by placing oneself in increasing pressure situations over time. Having a leader with high EQ is essential for others to learn from his or her poise on how to maintain composure even when others are losing theirs. At the start of leadership, everyone will fail in EQ in different situations, but over time, one learns to develop the internal fortitude to control one’s emotions, rather than have the emotions control them. Never let them see you sweat is a key principle in EQ based leadership. Teammates will rally behind the EQ of the leader, developing a confidence that the leader will see them through. Conversely, if the leader lacks EQ, the team will panic, each one attempting to save his own skin, leaving the team and the team’s goals in shambles. Attitude plus poise, plus strength of will, equals emotional intelligence quotient and every great leader must develop a high EQ. Remember, it’s not what happens to great leaders that counts as much as how great leaders handle what happens to them.

The story of Phineas Gage, as shared in the must read, Emotional Intelligence Quick Book, was instrumental in helping psychologist understand the workings of the mind. Here is a quick summary of his story. Gage was a supervisor of a railroad crew, considered one of the best, for punctual work and leadership skills. In an on the job accident, while tamping gunpowder into a blasting hole, the gunpowder exploded, sending a 43 inch long tamping iron of a full one and a quarter inches diameter through the frontal lobe of Gage’s brain. Amazingly, Gage lived to tell the story! It was a miracle that he lived to tell the story, but very quickly, others realized that he wasn’t the same man. Instead of his famed emotional control and leadership, Gage now lost his temper quickly, becoming emotionally unstable at the slightest provocation. He would curse like a sailor under stress, creating tension and chaos among his crew, responding to challenges radically different than his previous leadership style. He went from being one of the best of crew leaders to being unemployed, simply because of his lack of emotional intelligence. Gage, unlike us, had an excuse, he literally lacked the frontal lobe where reasoning took place. Meaning it was physically impossible for him to reason through his feelings, but the many EQ impaired people in life, do not have the same physical excuse. EQ is a simply a choice. A choice to slow down and think through the issues before reacting with feelings only. Yes, the senses will hit the ‘feeling’ part of the brain first, but with patience, one can wait for the senses to hit the ‘reasoning’ part also, responding with the whole brain in a high EQ style. Leaders refuse to react to the emotional stimulus only, but choose a response after feeling and thinking, in other words, with a high emotional intelligence quotient.

How many times have we witnessed people lose their cool, at work, at the airport, or during a sports contest, naming just a few? Is this type of behavior drawing people towards the potential leader or repelling them? No one enjoys spending time with a hot-head anymore than one enjoys walking on pins and needles. People build friendships with people who have predictable behaviors. Meaning, its hard to be friends with someone who will hug you one day, and hit you the next. People with low EQ, having not mastered their own emotions; therefore, they cannot lead themselves, let alone, lead others. All great victories in life begin with a victory over self. What happens when pressure builds in your life? How do you respond to the stress? If you don’t like the answers, welcome to the club, but the good news is that you can change. Before reacting to the stress emotionally, take a deep breath, forcing the mind to be still until one has time to reflect rationally, responding to the situation like a leader. It will take practice, but the results are well worth the investment. When a person lifts his EQ, it has the opposite effect from Phineas Gage. Gage lost his EQ, when his lost that portion of his brain, but we can gain EQ, by gaining the functionality of this portion of our brains through patient practice. It almost as if we gained an extra portion of brain matter, since it was practically unused. Learning to respond with EQ is one of the biggest changes in a person’s leadership journey, quickly noticeable to those following your leadership.

Great leaders must develop great EQ, exercising their emotional and rational brains repeatedly, creating mature responses in all leadership situations. An improved EQ leads to a greater level of respect and admiration from the community following ones leadership trail. Success is in your daily habits. Each of us must build our habits by our daily responses, but eventually, our habits will build or break us. What seeds are being planted in your garden? What weeds, some that have grown for years, need to be pulled today, in order to provide fertile soil for the twelve resolutions for success? Success is a personal choice, just as failure is a personal choice, because only the gardener can tend to his personal garden. Every garden leads to an abundant harvest, the only question being, whether the garden harvest fruits or weeds. God Bless, Orrin Woodward
MLM Scams

The Touch Of The Master's Hand!

2011-06-06T21:20:00.000-04:00

Orrin has said this is one of his favorite poems. It totally reminds me of our leadership journey. Aren't we all like that battered instrument before being fine tuned by a systematic approach to living intentionally for excellence?
Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

The Touch of the Masters Hand

Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer

thought it scarcely worth his while to waste much time on the old violin,

but held it up with a smile; "What am I bidden, good folks," he cried,

"Who'll start the bidding for me?" "A dollar, a dollar"; then two!" "Only

two? Two dollars, and who'll make it three? Three dollars, once; three

dollars twice; going for three.." But no, from the room, far back, a

gray-haired man came forward and picked up the bow; Then, wiping the dust

from the old violin, and tightening the loose strings, he played a melody

pure and sweet as caroling angel sings.

The music ceased, and the auctioneer, with a voice that was quiet and low,

said; "What am I bid for the old violin?" And he held it up with the bow.

A thousand dollars, and who'll make it two? Two thousand! And who'll make

it three? Three thousand, once, three thousand, twice, and going and

gone," said he. The people cheered, but some of them cried, "We do not

quite understnad what changed its worth." Swift came the reply: "The touch

of a master's hand."

And many a man with life out of tune, and battered and scarred with sin,

Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd, much like the old violin, A

"mess of pottage," a glass of wine; a game - and he travels on. "He is

going" once, and "going twice, He's going and almost gone." But the Master

comes, and the foolish crowd never can quite understand the worth of a soul

and the change that's wrought by the touch of the Master's hand.

Myra 'Brooks' Welch

Frederic Bastiat & The Fallacy of the Broken Window

2011-05-17T22:14:00.000-04:00

I love to peruse Orrin's archives and find gems like this to share. Someone should expose the scam pulled by the federal government diminishing the eduction of our youth! Any leadership types out there to take up this challenge?
Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

The following article is a condensed version of Frederic Bastiat - “What Is Seen and What Is Not Seen.” I found this condensed version of the classic text from the French economist while searching online. I wish every highschool level student would read classic economic literature to get the other side of the story. The principles in Bastiat’s work are timeless and as important today as the day they were written a century plus ago. In fact, maybe more important today as government and the media feed us words that tickle our ears on bailouts (handouts to the few at the expense of the many) and government intervention. Only an educated & courageous electorate can stem the tide towards socialism. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

Bastiat was an economist who was also a member of the French parliament in the middle of the nineteenth century. Interestingly, the issues he raises are as valid today as they were over 150 years ago. In the economic sphere an act, a habit, an institution, a law produces not only one effect, but a series of effects. Of these effects, the first alone is immediate; it appears simultaneously with its cause; it is seen. The other effects emerge only subsequently; they are not seen; we are fortunate if we foresee them. There is only one difference between a bad economist and a good one: the bad economist confines himself to the visible effect; the good economist takes into account both the effect that can be seen and those effects that must be foreseen. Yet this difference is tremendous; for it almost always happens that when the immediate consequence is favorable, the later consequences are disastrous, and vice versa. Whence it follows that the bad economist pursues a small present good that will be followed by a great evil to come, while the good economist pursues a great good to come, at the risk of a small present evil.

[This pamphlet, published in July, 1850, is the last that Bastiat wrote. It had been promised to the public for more than a year. Its publication had been delayed because the author had lost the manuscript when he moved his household from the rue de Choiseulto the rue d'Algen. After a long and fruitless search, he decided to rewrite his work entirely, and chose as the principal basis of his demonstrations some speeches recently delivered in the National Assembly. When this task was finished, he reproached himself with having been too serious, threw the second manuscript into the fire, and wrote the one which we reprint]

The Broken Window

Have you ever been witness to the fury of that solid citizen, James Goodfellow, when his incorrigible son has happened to break a pane of glass? If you have been present at this spectacle, certainly you must also have observed that the onlookers, even if there are as many as thirty of them, seem with one accord to offer the unfortunate owner the selfsame consolation: "It's an ill wind that blows nobody some good. Such accidents keep industry going. Everybody has to make a living. What would become of the glaziers if no one ever broke a window?" Now, this formula of condolence contains a whole theory that it is a good idea for us to expose, flagrante delicto, in this very simple case, since it is exactly the same as that which, unfortunately, underlies most of our economic institutions. Suppose that it will cost six francs to repair the damage. If you mean that the accident gives six francs' worth of encouragement to the aforesaid industry,

I agree. I do not contest it in any way; your reasoning is correct. The glazier will come, do his job, receive six francs, congratulate himself, and bless in his heart the careless child. That is what is seen. But if, by way of deduction, you conclude, as happens only too often, that it is good to break windows, that it helps to circulate money, that it results in encouraging industry in general, I am obliged to cry out: That will never do! Your theory stops at what is seen. It does not take account of what is not seen. It is not seen that, since our citizen has spent six francs for one thing, he will not be able to spend them for another. It is not seen that if he had not had a windowpane to replace, he would have replaced, for example, his worn-out shoes or added another book to his library. In brief, he would have put his six francs to some use or other for which he will not now have them. Let us next consider industry in general. The window having been broken, the glass industry gets six francs' worth of encouragement; that is what is seen. If the window had not been broken, the shoe industry (or some other) would have received six francs' worth of encouragement; that is what is not seen. And if we were to take into consideration what is not seen, because it is a negative factor, as well as what is seen, because it is a positive factor, we should understand that there is no benefit to industry in general or to national employment as a whole, whether windows are broken or not broken.

Now let us consider James Goodfellow. On the first hypothesis, that of the broken window, he spends six francs and has, neither more nor less than before, the enjoyment of one window. On the second, that in which the accident did not happen, he would have spent six francs for new shoes and would have had the enjoyment of a pair of shoes as well as of a window. Now, if James Goodfellow is part of society, we must conclude that society, considering its labors and its enjoyments, has lost the value of the broken window. From which, by generalizing, we arrive at this unexpected conclusion: "Society loses the value of objects unnecessarily destroyed,"… "To break, to destroy, to dissipate is not to encourage national employment," or more briefly: "Destruction is not profitable." The reader must apply himself to observe that there are not only two people, but three, in the little drama that I have presented. The one, James Goodfellow, represents the consumer, reduced by destruction to one enjoyment instead of two. The other, under the figure of the glazier, shows us the producer whose industry the accident encourages. The third is the shoemaker (or any other manufacturer) whose industry is correspondingly discouraged by the same cause. It is this third person who is always in the shadow, and who, personifying what is not seen, is an essential element of the problem. It is he who makes us understand how absurd it is to see a profit in destruction.

Theaters and Fine Arts - Should the state subsidize the arts?

There is certainly a great deal to say on this subject pro and con. In favor of the system of subsidies, one can say that the arts broaden, elevate, and poetize the soul of a nation; that they draw it away from material preoccupations, giving it a feeling for the beautiful, and thus react favorably on its manners, its customs, its morals, and even on its industry. One can ask where music would be in France without the Théâtre-Italien and the Conservatory; dramatic art without the Théâtre-Français; painting and sculpture without our collections and our museums. One can go further and ask whether, without the centralization and consequently the subsidizing of the fine arts, there would have developed that exquisite taste which is the noble endowment of French labor and sends its products out over the whole world. In the presence of such results would it not be the height of imprudence to renounce this moderate assessment on all the citizens, which, in the last analysis, is what has achieved for them their pre-eminence and their glory in the eyes of Europe? To these reasons and many others, whose power I do not contest, one can oppose many no less cogent.

There is, first of all, one could say, a question of distributive justice. Do the rights of the legislator go so far as to allow him to dip into the wages of the artisan in order to supplement the profits of the artist? M. de Lamartine said: "If you take away the subsidy of a theater, where are you going to stop on this path, and will you not be logically required to do away with your university faculties, your museums, your institutes, your libraries?" One could reply: If you wish to subsidize all that is good and useful, where are you going to stop on that path, and will you not logically be required to set up a civil list for agriculture, industry, commerce, welfare, and education? Furthermore, is it certain that subsidies favor the progress of the arts? It is a question that is far from being resolved, and we see with our own eyes that the theaters that prosper are those that live on their own profits. Finally, proceeding to higher considerations, one may observe that needs and desires give rise to one another and keep soaring into regions more and more rarefied in proportion as the national wealth permits their satisfaction; that the government must not meddle in this process, since, whatever may be currently the amount of the national wealth, it cannot stimulate luxury industries by taxation without harming essential industries, thus reversing the natural advance of civilization.

[Alphonse Marie Louis de Lamartine (1790-1869), one of the great poets of French romanticism and subsequently a distinguished statesman. First elected Deputy in 1834, he attained his greatest glory at the time of the Revolution of 1848, when he was a prime mover in the establishment of the Republic. By his eloquence he calmed the Paris mobs that threatened to destroy it and became the head of the provisional government. More an idealist and orator than a practical politician, however, he soon lost influence and retired to private life in 1851.—Translator.]

One may also point out that this artificial dislocation of wants, tastes, labor, and population places nations in a precarious and dangerous situation, leaving them without a solid base. These are some of the reasons alleged by the adversaries of state intervention concerning the order in which citizens believe they should satisfy their needs and their desires, and thus direct their activity. I confess that I am one of those who think that the choice, the impulse, should come from below, not from above, from the citizens, not from the legislator; and the contrary doctrine seems to me to lead to the annihilation of liberty and of human dignity. But, by an inference as false as it is unjust, do you know what the economists are now accused of? When we oppose subsidies, we are charged with opposing the very thing that it was proposed to subsidize and of being the enemies of all kinds of activity, because we want these activities to be voluntary and to seek their proper reward in themselves. Thus, if we ask that the state not intervene, by taxation, in religious matters, we are atheists. If we ask that the state not intervene, by taxation, in education, then we hate enlightenment. If we say that the state should not give, by taxation, an artificial value to land or to some branch of industry, then we are the enemies of property and of labor. If we think that the state should not subsidize artists, we are barbarians who judge the arts useless.

I protest with all my power against these inferences. Far from entertaining the absurd thought of abolishing religion, education, property, labor, and the arts when we ask the state to protect the free development of all these types of human activity without keeping them on the payroll at one another's expense, we believe, on the contrary, that all these vital forces of society should develop harmoniously under the influence of liberty and that none of them should become, as we see has happened today, a source of trouble, abuses, tyranny, and disorder. Our adversaries believe that an activity that is neither subsidized nor regulated is abolished. We believe the contrary. Their faith is in the legislator, not in mankind. Ours is in mankind, not in the legislator. Thus, M. de Lamartine said: "On the basis of this principle, we should have to abolish the public expositions that bring wealth and honor to this country." I reply to M. de Lamartine: From your point of view, not to subsidize is to abolish, because, proceeding from the premise that nothing exists except by the will of the state, you conclude that nothing lives that taxes do not keep alive. But I turn against you the example that you have chosen, and I point out to you that the greatest, the noblest, of all expositions, the one based on the most liberal, the most universal conception, and I can even use the word "humanitarian," which is not here exaggerated, is the exposition now being prepared in London, the only one in which no government meddles and which no tax supports.

Returning to the fine arts, one can, I repeat, allege weighty reasons for and against the system of subsidization. The reader understands that, in accordance with the special purpose of this essay, I have no need either to set forth these reasons or to decide between them. But M. de Lamartine has advanced one argument that I cannot pass over in silence, for it falls within the very carefully defined limits of this economic study. He has said: The economic question in the matter of theaters can be summed up in one word: employment. The nature of the employment matters little; it is of a kind just as productive and fertile as any other kind. The theaters, as you know, support by wages no less than eighty thousand workers of all kinds—painters, masons, decorators, costumers, architects, etc., who are the very life and industry of many quarters of this capital, and they should have this claim upon your sympathies! Your sympathies? Translate: your subsidies. And further on: The pleasures of Paris provide employment and consumers' goods for the provincial departments, and the luxuries of the rich are the wages and the bread of two hundred thousand workers of all kinds, living on the complex industry of the theaters throughout the Republic, and receiving from these noble pleasures, which make France illustrious, their own livelihood and the means of providing the necessities of life for their families and their children. It is to them that you give these sixty thousand francs. [Very good! Very good! Much applause.]

For my part, I am forced to say: Very bad! Very bad! Confining, of course, the burden of this judgment to the economic argument which we are here concerned with. Yes, it is, at least in part, to the workers in the theaters that the sixty thousand francs in question will go. A few scraps might well get lost on the way. If one scrutinized the matter closely, one might even discover that most of the pie will find its way elsewhere. The workers will be fortunate if there are a few crumbs left for them! But I should like to assume that the entire subsidy will go to the painters, decorators, costumers, hairdressers, etc. That is what is seen. But where does it come from? This is the other side of the coin, just as important to examine as its face. What is the source of these 60,000 francs? And where would they have gone if a legislative vote had not first directed them to the rue de Rivoli and from there to the rue de Grenelle?

[This refers to the Great Exhibition, in Hyde Park, London, in 1851, sponsored by the London Society of Arts, an association devoted to the development of arts and industries. The first in a series of great international exhibitions, or "world fairs," it was famous for the Crystal Palace, a remarkable architectural structure, in which the exhibitions were displayed. Albert, Queen Victoria's Prince Consort, presided over the exhibition.]

That is what is not seen. Surely, no one will dare maintain that the legislative vote has caused this sum to hatch out from the ballot box; that it is a pure addition to the national wealth; that, without this miraculous vote, these sixty thousand francs would have remained invisible and impalpable. It must be admitted that all that the majority can do is to decide that they will be taken from somewhere to be sent somewhere else, and that they will have one destination only by being deflected from another. This being the case, it is clear that the taxpayer who will have been taxed one franc will no longer have this franc at his disposal. It is clear that he will be deprived of a satisfaction to the tune of one franc, and that the worker, whoever he is, who would have procured this satisfaction for him, will be deprived of wages in the same amount. Let us not, then, yield to the childish illusion of believing that the vote of May 16 adds anything whatever to national well-being and employment. It reallocates possessions, it reallocates wages, and that is all. Will it be said that for one kind of satisfaction and for one kind of job it substitutes satisfactions and jobs more urgent, more moral, more rational? I could do battle on this ground. I could say: In taking sixty thousand francs from the taxpayers, you reduce the wages of plowmen, ditchdiggers, carpenters, and blacksmiths, and you increase by the same amount the wages of singers, hairdressers, decorators, and costumers. Nothing proves that this latter class is more important than the other.

M. de Lamartine does not make this allegation. He says himself that the work of the theaters is just as productive as, just as fruitful as, and not more so than, any other work, which might still be contested; for the best proof that theatrical work is not as productive as other work is that the latter is called upon to subsidize the former. But this comparison of the intrinsic value and merit of the different kinds of work forms no part of my present subject. All that I have to do here is to show that, if M. de Lamartine and those who have applauded his argument have seen on the one hand the wages earned by those who supply the needs of the actors, they should see on the other the earnings lost by those who supply the needs of the taxpayers; if they do not, they are open to ridicule for mistaking a reallocation for a gain. If they were logical in their doctrine, they would ask for infinite subsidies; for what is true of one franc and of sixty thousand francs is true, in identical circumstances, of a billion francs. When it is a question of taxes, gentlemen, prove their usefulness by reasons with some foundation, but not with that lamentable assertion: "Public spending keeps the working class alive." It makes the mistake of covering up a fact that it is essential to know: namely, that public spending is always a substitute for private spending, and that consequently it may well support one worker in place of another but adds nothing to the lot of the working class taken as a whole…

Questions for thought 1. The proponents of government spending on sports stadiums often argue that this spending expands employment. Evaluate this view. 2. The U.S. federal government spends billions of dollars subsidizing agriculture. Do these subsidies increase employment and output? Explain.

Citation: Bastiat, Frederic, Selected Essays on Political Economy. The Foundation for Economic Education, Inc. 1995. Trans. Seymour Cain. Ed. George B. de Huszar. Library of Economics and Liberty. 30 September 2006.

Thomas Jefferson, Would Not Be Proud!

2011-05-08T09:38:00.000-04:00

The government education scam, exposed and brought into the light of day!
Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

Peeling away the layers of rhetoric from reality in our Public School System, one discovers an interesting paradox; even though Americans enthusiastically support the Separation of Church & State, strangely, they do not feel the same vigor for Separation of Education & State. What are the real differences between religion and education? By lifting the veil, looking underneath the shiny veneer, both reveal underlying presuppositions that are unprovable, making them more a matter of faith rather than science, requiring belief in doctrines that cannot empirically be proven true or false. The administrators (High Priests) of both genres feed the faithful accepted doctrines, brooking no resistance to the approved creeds. Don’t misunderstand me, I am not against organized religion nor organized education, the more of both the better, as far as I am concerned, for man and society. Everything in life boils down to faith when you track back to first principles, since it deals with world-views and beliefs. My question to the State School Board or, if I may be so bold, the Priests of Education, is why, during the founding of America, was it so important to ensure the State never crossed into the religious sphere, protecting the people against a powerful centralized State Church, even going so far as to make it one of the ten amendments in the Bill of Rights? The government wouldn’t consider creating a State Church, requiring mandatory attendance every Sunday, teaching State Doctrines at State Churches in every neighborhood; but we yield to our government the same level of control, requiring mandatory attendance, not on Sundays, but Monday through Fridays, educating all adolescents in State Doctrines at State Schools (Churches). When State centralized education requires mandatory attendance of children at State School schools, teaching doctrines much like churches teach creeds,, reaching into every home, I get a bit concerned. The only options for parents, other than surrendering to tyranny, are to quit the public school system entirely, while still supporting them with their local taxes. This doesn’t sound like freedom to me.

As I see it, religious doctrines and educational doctrines are merely different sides of the same coin. Just as theories abound, teaching various religious creeds, suggesting the proper methods and principles to worship God, so too, theories abound teaching various educational creeds, suggesting the proper methods and principles to teach a child. Yet, somehow, we believe an omniscient State will select just the right creeds for our child, regardless of his or her circumstances, ignoring our child’s family life, religious principles, or career aspirations. Now I am a reasonable person, certainly willing to hear all rational discussions on the subject, but something strikes me as disingenuous, separating a man’s religious beliefs so completely from his educational beliefs. To use just one example, suppose a young man was taught in the home or church, that God made men and women for each other, under the sacrament of marriage. He might have a hard time swallowing any contrary doctrine, offered up in our State Schools. Now before you bash me as a sexist, gender hater, etc, please hear my point, the point is, shouldn’t the same freedoms that apply to religion apply when referring to education? Regardless of the specific doctrines one believes in, a higher doctrine ought to be the freedom to choose, since America is famous for being the “land of freedom.” No one should be forced to endure an indoctrination against his will nor forced to submit his children to the same treatment. If parents choose to send their children to another school, aligning better with their personal beliefs, they ought to have that right, transferring their tax dollars to the school of choice, instead of paying more. I believe in freedom of choice so much, that I would fight for your right to disagree with my beliefs, choosing to send your children to another school; the school of your choice. Freedom ensures that we all get the education for our children that we desire, not what the State desires. Free discussion and free choices makes us all better, that’s what makes America great.

Thomas Jefferson, one of the earliest and strongest proponents of religious freedoms, shared these principles with his fellow Virginia delegates, arguing that it’s unjust to charge Presbyterians, Baptist, Congregationalist, etc, to support the Virginia Anglican State Church. For example, if a Baptist moved to Virginia, he was required to pay a tax to support the Anglican church even though he didn’t attend nor believe the Anglican creeds. Liberty loving Virginians could see the justice in Mr. Jefferson’s views and repealed the mandatory tax supporting the Virginia State Church. The Separation of Church & State became a foundational plank in Virginia, eventually finding its way into the Constitution through the Bill of Rights, inspiring millions to come to America to enjoy religious freedom. An interesting aside is George Washington’s thoughts on the Separation of Church & State, believing that churches built character through faith and creeds, Washington was hesitant to see churches not funded by public taxes; therefore, he proposed to tax all citizens, but give them a choice of which church to support. Mr. Washington proposed a voucher program for religion, giving freedom of choice while ensuring that churches thrived to build character in the people for the benefit of society. No, I’m not proposing launching church vouchers, invoking the name of the great George Washington to bolster my position. I believe keeping government out of local churches, the true meaning of Separation of Church & State, has been a blessing, allowing each church to serve their God and congregations as they please, not requiring, nor asking for, government handouts.

My aside on Washington was merely to point out how important freedom of choice was to our Founding Fathers, a freedom sadly missing from our current Public School System. How many millions of children over the years, having conflicting beliefs with the High Priest of Education, went to private schools by the free choice of the parents, paying a tuition for private school on one hand, while still being taxed by the State School on the other hand. But let’s not forget the recent phenomena, if not outright revolution, called Home Schooling. Over the last thirty years or so, millions of children have been home schooled, a challenging endeavor, where parents choose to educate their children, receiving no pay, giving of their time and money in a labor of love, but still suffering from the tax load of a State School they are no longer employing. A young Thomas Jefferson, when faced with a similar situation in 18th century Virginia, confronted by the injustice of forcing parishioner of other sects to pay for a church they didn’t attend, loved freedom enough to do something about it. Maybe George Washington’s idea, if converted from religion to education has merit. School vouchers, a plan where each parent is given a voucher from the State to spend at the school of their choice, would solve the Separation of Education & State issue. Giving each parent a voucher, allowing each family to choose the school that best fits their needs, brings free enterprise and decentralization to the school system. The school options will increase and conflicts over doctrines will decrease by allowing parents to choose an education that marries with their religious beliefs and student's career choices. Perhaps America, that beacon of light, though flickering a bit of late, will remember its great heritage, standing against injustices, even if it doesn’t directly affect them; because tyranny, when given a chance to seed in society’s soil, sinks it roots deeply, consuming everything in its path.

I purposely kept this discussion at fifty thousand feet, not diving into the details of our State School System, not that there isn’t plenty to say, but only because I didn’t want to take away from my main message. Few will argue that our State Schools are broken, throwing more money at State Schools seems to be the only solution bantered about. I have learned over the years that, if the riverbed is wrong, pouring more water in the river isn’t the answer. Until we start working on the foundation, the riverbed, nothing is going to change. The riverbed change, in my opinion, is Separation of Education & State. Of course, the State System is failing, because the State is involved in an area that is shouldn’t be. Can you name any government program designed to serve the public that hasn't failed miserably? It’s not the teachers, nor the students, but the entire system based upon centralized control that must be rooted out. Thomas Jefferson understood this, which is why he decentralized religion from government, making a riverbed change; we need modern day Jefferson’s to decentralize schooling from government, making another riverbed change. I believe firmly that a free enterprise school system, where parents vote with their vouchers, rewarding excellence while punishing incompetence as all customers do in free enterprise, will build a world class educational system that can compete in today’s “flat world.” The key is for free people to make free choices. As over time, free people making free choices will always thrive over tyrannized people following State bureaucrats. Perhaps a Jefferson will step up, creating a Separation of Education & State as Thomas Jefferson’s created a Separation of Religion & State. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

A Servant Leader!

2011-04-24T21:02:00.000-04:00

Here's a great example of how a top leader inspires others!
Enjoy!
Capt. Bill

The longer I live, the more I realize the essential hunger inside of everyone to be accepted, approved and appreciated. If we, as human beings, could all learn to focus on others before focusing on ourselves, we would overcome so many of the problems that plague our society today. If we desire acceptance in life, then we must give acceptance. If we desire approval in life, then we must give approval. If we desire appreciation in life, then we must give appreciation. If we desire validation in life then we must give validation and if we desire smiles then give others your smile.

I know people can accuse me, an engineer, of losing my rationality and falling into sentimentality, but I know what I speak is true. A sincerely thought out and spoken or written comment can fuel a person for a week. I know many high achievers and it is as true for them as it is for a young child. Recognition: grown men die for it and babies cry for it. Do not hoard this precious gift. Do not feel that complimenting and praising others takes from you. Appreciation is one of the few gifts that the more you give it away, the more it returns to you. You will gather more bees with honey than vinegar. There is a shortage of honey and stockpiles of vinegar in life.

I want to thank all of my friends and family for the many kind words and encouraging statements. I will never be able to share how much they have meant to me. The world tends to beat the joy out of you, but you still have the choice of whether to surrender your joy. If you lost your joy, then choose now to reclaim it by giving away joy to others. Start a virtuous cycle of sincere praise and appreciation and let’s change the world one life at a time! Can you imagine if every person at every open encourage the other people at our opens? The Team would be well past one million people in no time at all! God Bless, Orrin Woodward

Creating A Learning Organization!

2011-04-17T19:08:00.000-04:00

Teachable Moments” are one of the quickest ways to create a learning organization, helping the entire team to learn from the many mistakes on the journey to excellence. The attitude of learning organizations is, if we are going to make mistakes anyway, let’s go ahead and learn from them. Learning organizations improve daily without playing the blame game or passing the buck. Only someone with significant results in the organization ought to apply the “Teachable Moment” process. This is not a process for the blind to lead the blind, but one where leaders help others improve. In other words, until one has performed, displaying by personal results that one is further down the leadership road, should the “teachable moments” process be employed. A good rule of conduct, for students on their way to learning leadership, is to speak all the good that you can, never criticizing, condemning, or complaining to anyone. The leader must have the respect of his team before the “teachable moments” process will produce the desired results. With these caveats, let me share the eights steps for turning mistakes into “teachable moments”.

1. Lead in personal change - model change before speaking to others about change.

2. Sit down with the person & express why you value them on the team.

3. Share the common vision of the change process to reach team goals.

4. Explain the changes needed for both of you to reach the team goals.

5. Point out areas where you have and are still changing and growing.

6. Point out areas where they have changed and grown in the past.

7. Unite around the common vision of how team will look after changes.

8. Lead by serving, asking, “How can I help you in this change process?”

The first step, is to lead in personal change first. Never ask someone to change in an area that you are unwilling to change yourself. This behavior breeds resentment within the community, as people believe, that you place yourself above the principles professed, expecting more out of them, than you are willing to do yourself. As Ghandi said, “Be the change that you want to see in the world.” Leaders must model the change process, so that everyone knows that the leaders, not only aren’t above the principles, but hold themselves to a higher standard on the principles espoused. As the Bible teaches, “To whom much is given, much is required.” Leadership is more than just a title, it’s the working example for the rest of the team. It’s what the principles look like, when applied in someone’s life. Does your team see changes in your leadership on a regular basis? Every month, certainly every year, the community ought to see the change process being lived out in your life, modeling the proper behaviors for the rest of the team.

The second step in the “teachable moment” process is when mistakes happen, sit down with them. At first, this may sound scary, to both the leader and the team member, since few people, are comfortable addressing issues. The key here, is that sitting down, isn’t a criticism meeting, but a learning meeting. Because all of us make mistakes, sitting down shouldn’t be a beat up session, but an opportunity to express value to the person, explaining the opportunity available to both of you to learn. By sitting down, it gives the leader an opportunity to express the value that he places on the team members work, sharing that the goal is to help them advance even further. When starting the meeting by sharing how much you accept, approve and appreciate his work, the ‘teachable moment’ will be accepted as positive feedback needed to improve performance further, not just criticism because of the mistake. Let the team member know that you have made similar mistakes in the past, and still make plenty of mistakes, in the present, leading to “teachable moments”. This sets people at ease, allowing them to truly listen to improve, instead of listening to defend.

The third step is to express the common vision shared and accomplished through changing the behaviors, techniques and principles applied. The team, that the leader leads, can only win through a team effort. There must be a common vision that aligns the team’s behaviors towards stated objectives. By reviewing the common vision, it ensures that both parties are focusing on the same outcome, improving the team, not just negative criticizing of a teammate. Be sure to point out to the teammate, how important his role is in the accomplishment of the team’s goals. The more people feel that their role counts, and the more people feel the leaders are counting on them, the more that they will do to get the job done. Most people will rise to the level of expectation placed upon them. People want to do a good job, impressing their superiors with their attitude and results. Only after completing these three critical steps, should anyone start course correcting a person’s behavior.

The fourth step is to address the behavior or thinking that needs changing. At this point, the leader has affirmed the team member, helping his ego, handle the adjustment without feeling worthless, stupid, or unnecessary. By creating a culture where mistakes aren’t fatal, but only part of the learning process, real change can occur quickly. If someone is interrupting the speaker during meetings, so that no one can finish a point, then you may have to sit down with them. After letting him know that you did in the past, and still do the same thing occasionally, being something that you have to work on constantly, this helps the team member feel that his load is no heavier than yours. If you changed, then he can too. This is a much better result, than an argument where he defends his actions, stating that you are always criticizing him. Or the other outcome, that the issue is never addressed, allowing the behavior to continue, leading to no “teachable moments” and little learning occurring in the organization.

The fifth step, is to ask questions, ensuring that they understand what is expected of them in the future and how they plan on improving. During this discussion, it’s important to point out as many example of issues that you needed to improve in the past. Not current issues, but issues solved over the years. So many great examples follow the dream, struggle, victory process. I share any examples where the full process is complete, but I don’t share where I have not achieved a victory yet. The goal is to give the team member hope that after the struggle comes a huge victory. The more people stay focused on their victories, vicariously learning from your victories, the more effort they will apply to overcome their poor behaviors, replacing with behaviors that produce results.

The sixth step, one that gives confidence and expectancy to the team member in the “teachable moments” is to point out other areas where they have already changed. By taking the time to, not only notice, but point out to them, areas where you have seen growth, the team member feels appreciated and respected because you are displaying the value you have for them. Let them know that the reason you are sitting down with them is because of your confidence in their hunger and willingness to change, that you are only sitting down with them because of the confidence that you have. The other strength in this step is that they feel, if they improved in other areas, that they can improve in this area. Results can create momentum for further results. The team member must feel that they can make the change, and, that you are counting on them to step up in this area for the betterment of themselves and the entire team.

The seventh step in the “teachable moments” process is to unite around the common vision for the team. When teams have a bigger vision than any of the participants can accomplish on their own, it unites the team, driving change and growth. Leaders must speak to the vision when sitting down with people. This helps everyone understand and feel the direction the organization is heading. The goal of the leader is to help the team member feel part of the vision, understanding the key role that they play in making the vision a reality. The more the team member feels part of the team, accepting responsibility for his assignment, the more leverage that he will apply to himself to change. It’s much easier to let yourself down than it is to let an entire team down. This is why, in sports, that some of the best times are in team relays, runners and swimmers, not wanting to let their teammates down.

The eighth, and final step is for the leader to ask what part he can play in helping the change process. Nothing displays the value that a leader has in a teammate, like taking the time for a “teachable moment” session, wrapping up with how can one help. Criticism of others is easy, and a leader will not partake in idle criticism, but improvement is tough, requiring courage and accepting responsibility. When a leader sets the bar high, identifies areas of improvement, and takes the time for “teachable moments”, the atmosphere created for the team is one of love, encouragement, expectation and results. Leaders understand that it is their responsibility to form a team of people willing to grow and change. Mistakes are a given, but learning and growth are optional. The eighth step is vital because it let’s the team member know that you are with them, wanting to help them where you can.

Leaders who will follow these eight steps for “teachable moments” will start the process of creating learning organizations, where everyone understands that they must grow and change for the team to accomplish its objectives. Any leader that avoids “teachable moments” is a leader that is avoiding growth, but any leader who runs around criticizing, without implementing the eight steps, is a leader on his way out of leadership. Leadership is an art and science, I can explain the eight steps, but I cannot give a person the heart to love his team. This process is more than just a rote following of the eight steps, but more a loving way to help people identify areas to grow, committing to them time and energy to help them change, creating better results for all involved. Leaders drive change, and the team changes the most when the team members grow. Grow yourself first, setting the example of the change process, giving you the credibility to sit down with others, teaching the change process, through the “teachable moments”. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

Control And Leadership!

2011-04-10T10:08:00.000-04:00

Don’t let the issues outside of your control, stop you from addressing issues inside of your control.

If I have seen it once, I have seen it a thousand times, a talented person with a willingness to work, stopped cold by dwelling on issues outside of his control. This type of thinking takes on many forms, but let me give you an example to help you recognize it in your own thinking. Suppose you are looking at attending a certain school, learning that one of your friends attended the school, you seek him out to learn from his experiences. If he shares that he quit the school because it was too hard, requiring too many hours of studying and not enough for play, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t attend. If you have a dream, and are willing to work, it doesn’t tell you anything about your potential experiences at the school; since education, like nearly all life, is a matter of personal responsibility. But, if your friends failed attempt at school, blocks your dream to even apply, then two failures have occurred, one a failure of action, the other a failure of thinking. How do you control your friends work ethic? How do you know if your friend was truly committed to the school and his dreams? Why are you letting your friends actions hinder your opportunities? Leaders can only control themselves and the decisions they make, with others, they have only influence, not control.

There are numerous examples of poor thinking in allowing issues outside of your control to affect the issues inside of your control. Here are some other poor thinking scenarios:

1. I don’t attend church because a hypocrite goes there. Why allow a hypocrite to stop you from learning Truth for you and your family?

2. I am not a business owner because I had a bad experience with a business person. Why allow a bad business person to deny you of future opportunities?

3. I don’t go to doctors because I had a bad experience with a doctor. Why threaten your health because of one doctor’s incompetence.

4. I don’t read, because a teacher told me that I was dyslexic and would never be able to read. Why allow a teacher’s label to halt your personal growth.

5. I don’t talk to people because my parents told me that I was shy. Why allow your parents label, when you were a child, to hinder your future?

6. I don’t attempt great things for God, because my family has never accomplished anything great. Why allow your family’s past to hinder its future?

7. I don’t save money, because I was told that I would always be in debt. Why allow someone’s poor thinking on money become your thinking?

8. I don’t dream, because I saw my friend dream and fail. Why not learn from failures versus become one?

9. I am not getting married because so many people get divorces. Why not learn the successful marriages versus focus on the failed ones.

10. I am not having children because the world is so messed up. Why not learn how to prepare children for life versus deny them the opportunity for life?

I could go on and on, but I think you get the point. Instead of allowing the things that you don’t control (other peoples thoughts and actions), to create your reality, why not focus on the things that you do control (your thoughts and actions)? I grew up in Columbiaville, Michigan, a small village with few, if any, big thinkers. It would have been easy to succumb to the ‘stinking thinking’ around Laurie and myself, but through God’s Grace, and a ton of effort, we broke free from the mold. Instead of dwelling on our parents faults, since all parents have them, Laurie and I focused on our parents strengths. We learned work ethic and the ability to think from our parents, and applied to every endeavor we undertook. One of the keys to breaking out is to major on your majors, not on the failed minors of others. Yes, people will let you down, shame on them, but that shouldn’t stop you from fulfilling your purpose. Yes, your family may hurt you at times, but that doesn’t stop end your responsibility to love and lead them. Yes, your vision, like a ship, may take on water every now and then, but leaders understand that it’s part of the journey, rebuilding the ship bigger and stronger. Your dream cannot be stolen, but through poor thinking, it can be surrendered. Life is much easier, since Laurie and I decided to press on regardless of the actions of others, that we were in the game no matter what. This released the stress and anxiety, felt by most people, created when not truly committed to a course of action. Leaders decide, backing the decision with full commitment, making the decision right by overwhelming passion and effort.

Did we have setbacks? Of course. Did we have people make promises while not following through? Many examples. Did we stay the course? To the best of our ability and know how, an emphatic yes. We cannot control other peoples poor decisions, but the last thing we should do, is to compound the mistake by piling on. Laurie and I have witnessed many people, with more talent than us, sabotage their own success by allowing poor thinking to take root in their minds. Usually, by the time the weeds have ruined their thinking, they no longer are interested in hearing the advice to help pull the weeds, even getting offended at the suggestion that they are growing weeds. I do my best to help point out the improper thinking, if they are willing to listen, but, at the end of the day, people are responsible for the fruit, or lack of fruit, produced in their minds, pulling weeds when identified is standard fare for leaders. Thus, one of the biggest weeds that can grow, if not pulled quickly, is permitting issues outside of your control to hinder your attitude and actions on the issues inside of your control. For example, if you aren’t reading, listening and learning daily in your chosen field, thinking what’s the use, since you aren’t getting the results in life that you want, then you are revealing a huge weed in your own thinking. It takes time to develop master in any field, in fact it takes 10,000 hours according to Malcolm Gladwell and Geoff Colvin, both authors who write on achievement, but most quit in despair long before this. By allowing things outside of your control, a lack of 10,000 hours when you start something new, to stop you from doing what is inside of your control, building up the hours to reach 10,000 for mastery in your field, you ensure that mastery will never arrive in any field. It truly is that simple, though not that easy.

Success in life, is simply a matter of staying focused on the areas that you control, surrendering to God the areas that are outside of your control. What a leader discovers is, that others, influenced by their example, address issues, improving the community through a leader’s influence, not control. The community, inspired by the leaders courage, in confronting and changing areas of control, make the tough changes in their lives to grow. None of this would have happened, if the leader would have dwelled upon areas that he doesn’t control. It was only because the leader stayed the course, even when it hurt, that it strengthened the resolve of others to change their lives. Are you that type of leader for your family, community, and team?

One of the best decisions that a leader will ever make in life is to be “all in”, in whatever field that s/he is pursuing. Greatness doesn’t happen to those who dabble, nor to those who deliberate, but only to those who decide. Laurie and I are “all in” for our 8F’s - Faith, Family, Friends, Freedom, Finances, Fitness, Following, and Fun. What are you “all in” for in life? Life has become so much fuller by learning the secret of sacrifice. When Laurie and I sacrifice our current conveniences for our convictions, we receive a ten fold return on, not only on our own 8F’s, but also in the joy of seeing others develop their 8F’s. Look back upon your own life, didn’t you achieve more when you kept your mind focused on the areas that you could control, instead of dwelling upon what you didn’t control? Today is the day to start thinking like the leader you plan on becoming. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

"Profiles In Courage!"

2011-03-31T08:06:00.003-04:00

In my association with leadership guru, Orrin Woodward, I've found that it's courage not the title, that separates the genuine leaders from the posers. It takes courage to be the individual the call to leadership demands. Your asked to stand out from the crowd, because when we seek to be like the next person, we lose autonomy. It's not easily done to stand tall before your critics and choose the path less taken, then encourage others to follow. But then if you take your cues from life's owners manual, this is described exactly in Matthew 7:13

"Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few."

So in leadership, you may not find short term popularity most seek, but then popularity is fleeting. It's far more rewarding to be trusted, than to be admired, but as you introduce people to your values, integrity, ethics, vision, commitment, generosity, self confidence, and your character, reinforced by your deeds, popularity finds you. Nothing defines the leaders stock as how we meet a challenge, do the right thing with an ethical flair, when, truth be told, the act will cost us more than we want to pay.

Leaders are the captains of the vessel named "Character." It's essential a leader understands that ship be navigated on a course of trust and integrity. They will be remembered and foster an attitude within their following, by truthful disclosure, and the promises they keep. Integrity is central to all else virtuous!

With that in mind, crawl out on the leadership limb, after all isn't that where the fruit grows? While following one's moral compass isn't for the faint of heart, leaders worthy of the title understand they achieved that moniker for exhibiting the courage to put their values on display.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Humor Relief

2011-03-11T18:09:00.000-05:00

In times of crisis, leaders must be able to reduce a problem to real-world standards and bring it into a manageable perspective. They must be able to see the comedic aspects of the situation and clear the stress, anxiety and tension from the air through their own sense of humor.

Your people need this type of release in order to relax, reevaluate, and reprioritize their goals. Then they can refocus on what really needs to be done to correct the problems they face and get the job done.

That simple "humor relief" created by a leader can be the difference between success and failure. A true leader understands the importance of reframing perspective through humor.

Humor is an affirmative of dignity; a declaration of man's superiority to all that befalls him.
Romain Gary

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A Vision for the Future

2011-03-07T17:56:00.000-05:00

The future represents what is new. It represents change and innovation. It represents hope and the results of past efforts, attitudes and growth.

The present is important for it is in the present that we achieve the future, and we must learn from the past, our successes and failures. But the future provides a vision not yet attained-- a target to aim for.

A true leader understands the importance of having a clearly defined vision for success and is effective in communicating that vision to the team.

I like the dreams of the future, better than the history if the past.
Thomas Jefferson

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Location:Dallas/Fort Worth Airport

The Leadership Role

2011-03-02T17:42:00.000-05:00

To be appointed to a leadership position is not sufficient to make you a leader.

Leadership is not based upon position. That's management. Once appointed to a position of leadership, you have to take charge and begin leading.

Too many people feel as though they have arrived when they get promoted. The wise know that promotion is just the beginning. It is the opportunity to lead!

A leader who assumes the leadership role is much more effective than those who try to succeed by mere position. But those under the purview of that leadership soon discover the lack thereof.

It is easier to assume your role as a leader once you understand that people want and need to be led by a competent leader. You are there to help them, and yourself, by giving them direction through being the example.

When in charge, take charge!

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Location:AA Flight from Tucson to Dallas

Leadership Process

2011-02-28T08:29:00.000-05:00

Becoming a leader is an incremental process.

Becoming an effective supervisor requires certain skills.

Becoming an effective manager requires another set of skills.

In that same regard, becoming an effective leader requires yet another set of skills. Skills that can all be learned, developed, and honed by anyone motivated and disciplined to do so.
Developing these skills is the formula for your success.

Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort.
Franklin D. Roosevelt

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Solution Oriented

2011-02-25T17:32:00.000-05:00

True leaders are constantly seeking solutions.

One seldom has to look for problems. Problems have a natural way of making themselves known.

One does, however, have to look for solutions to those problems.

Rather than expend wasted energy worrying and placing blame, leaders are solution-oriented seeking to just solve the problem. They then go one step further to learn from the mistakes and take action to ensure that a similar problem does not occur in the future. True leaders learn from problems and teach the lesson for greater growth of the team.

The block of granite which is an obstacle in the pathway of the weak, becomes a stepping-stone in the pathway of the strong.
Thomas Carlyle

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Competent Teamates

2011-02-21T17:25:00.000-05:00

Leaders are not afraid of their teammates or subordinates taking their jobs.

Quite the contrary, leaders reacting the best people they can find and train them thoroughly so they can not only do their job, but so they can fill in for the leader when necessary.

This ensures that the team and the leader gets maximum performance, maximum results and success into the future. Maxwell calls it the Law of Succession.

Quality followers, teammates, and subordinates are a result of, and a course of, strong true leadership.

There is something that is much more scarce, something rarer than ability. It is the ability to recognize ability.
Robert Half

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Common Sense

2011-02-18T17:19:00.000-05:00

Leaders Exhibit Good Common Sense
Are people born with common sense? Maybe.
It is the result of experience? Possibly.
Is it the combination of IQ, acquired knowledge and personal experience?
Probably!

Experts and know-it-alls can argue what constitutes common sense until the end of time but the fact remains that a true leader has it and uses it. Period!

Common sense is the knack of saying things as they are, and doing as they ought to be done.
Josh Billings

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Taking Risks

2011-01-31T17:24:00.002-05:00

Leaders take calculated risks.

Leaders are not foolhardy, wild-eyed maniacs who throw away the rule book.

On the contrary: leaders continually evaluate the elements of a risky project in comparison to the potential for gain from taking those risks.

They speak out in the heat of controversy. They take a stand when right, but not necessarily popular. They dare to try new ideas, sure in their own minds that their ideas will work.

They do not risk the safety of their subordinates or someone else's career-- only their own.

If nothing is ever ventured, then nothing is ever gained.

It is impossible to win the great prizes of life without running risks.
Theodore Roosevelt

The Social Leader on Orrin Woodward

Strive to be the Best

2011-01-21T17:30:00.002-05:00

Leaders strive to be the best in everything they do.

Leaders also instill this attribute into their subordinates.

Leaders seek to be the best-- for their own satisfaction in knowing they can be.

Get a good idea and stay with it. Dog it, and work at it until it's done and done right.
Walt Disney

The Best Leadership Nuggets

Take Responsibility

2011-01-11T17:29:00.002-05:00

True leaders are in charge, and they are responsible for every facet of the project or task at hand.

When it is successful, they are the ones responsible. When it is unsuccessful, they are also responsible.

Taking responsibility relieves others, and shows them who the true leader really is. Anyone can choose to be a leader and accept responsibility.

A chief is a man who assumes responsibility. He says, "I was beaten." He does not say, "My men were beaten." Thus speaks a real man.
Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Adversity or Opportunity

2011-01-07T17:28:00.001-05:00

We've all heard "When handed a lemon, make lemonade."

The leader follows this advice and looks for any opportunity to combat, and thrive against, adversity.

Every cloud has a silver lining. True leaders look for that silver lining at every opportunity of adversity.

Since the house is on fire, let us warm ourselves.
Italian Proverb

The Social Leader on Orrin Woodward

Leading the Pack

2010-12-31T17:55:00.000-05:00

Leaders stay a little more progressive.

The do so by:
Being a little more innovative. A little more creative.
By taking that extra step.
Spending a little more effort.
Getting a little more accomplished.
Getting a few more results.

However, leaders can't run too far ahead of the pack without bringing others with them. They need support from others to be successful themselves. Leaders stay ahead but make sure others are with them.

It is a mistake to look too far ahead. Only one link in the chain of destiny can be handled at a time.
Winston Churchill

Keep Moving Forward

2010-12-29T07:44:00.000-05:00

Leaders are always going forward making progress in some fashion. Sometimes in tiny steps, but often in quantum leaps.

A leader's group is the first to adopt new ideas, first to try new technologies, and first in efficiency and productivity. They pay attention to percentage points of increase and decrease. They pay attention to the score.

True leaders make things happen.

Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.
Arthur Godfrey

Example

2010-12-22T11:44:00.001-05:00

One Fortune 500 executive told his people, "You may do anything you see me doing."

People will emulate, consciously or subconsciously, their leaders, bosses, and managers. If you are forward-thinking, innovative, and progressive, then your team or department will move consistently forward.

True leaders are also willing to roll up their shirt sleeves and do whatever is necessary to make a project succeed. Their commitment and dedication in such a situation sets the example for all of their people.

True leaders are excellent role models.

The example of good men is visible philosophy.
English Proverb

Having Vision

2010-12-13T12:39:00.001-05:00

To be able to visualize the completed project or task, the final goal and all of its rewards and consequences, is the ultimate test for true leaders.

In addition to visualizing "the dream," they must also be able to visualize each task that must be completed, and the integration of those tasks to successfully complete the project. They must also be able to effectively communicate this vision to the group.

To true leaders, vision defines the final goal, and action is the path that leads to the vision.

We have always help to the hope, the belief, the conviction that there is a better life, a better world, beyond the horizon.
Franklin D. Roosevelt

Blame

2010-12-05T12:30:00.000-05:00

When in a position of leadership, everything that occurs in your responsibility, even the errors.

Rather than spending effort in placing the blame on others, your job is to mitigate the damage, and to learn from the mistakes, take steps necessary to solve the issue, and make sure the problem does not recur in the future.

The buck stops here!
Harry S. Truman

Jealousy

2010-11-30T12:25:00.001-05:00

True leaders focus on their own career and accomplishments. Others, including those in competition with you, will also garner accomplishments and awards.

Rather than wasting energy on jealousy, share their joy of accomplishment. Seek them out as friends and colleagues. Learn from them.

Winners associate with winners!

Of all the passions, jealousy is that which exerts the hardest service and pays the bitterest wages.
Charles Cabet Colton

Excessive Pressure

2010-11-21T12:19:00.001-05:00

Leaders prevent excessive pressure on both themselves and them members of their team. Set realistic goals for yourself and your team. You should be able to see the end in mind the means of achieving it.

If an unrealistic task is given, realize it and break it down to a realistic, seeable, achievable goal. Expectations set the motivation of the group. Excessive pressure on members serves no purpose and often kills initiative and creativity at all levels.

We are more often frightened than hurt; our troubles spring more often from fancy than reality.
Seneca.

Humility of a Leader

2010-11-11T12:13:00.001-05:00

Don't be caught up in the power and prestige of your position. Nothing is beneath a true leader. You must always be willing to help your team and teammates, even in what may seem to be the most mundane tasks.

Remember that you and your fellow co-workers will occasionally make mistakes. You know that, and they know that. If you have an arrogant attitude, you can expect no help from your fellow teammates in preventing or correcting your errors or theirs.

To be vain of one's rank or place, is to show that one is below it.
Stanislas I

Leaders Don't Lose Their Temper

2010-11-07T12:06:00.003-05:00

There is little in the world worthy of losing your temper. Yet frustrations in every aspect of our personal and professional life are common and can be difficult to deal with.

As a leader, always try to stay in control. Discuss problems openly with the people involved. Be open in thought and firm in your demands, but remain in control.

Superiors, suppliers, peers, customers, teammates, and subordinates will sometimes (often times) be infuriating, but losing your temper will probably only compound the problem instead of solving it.

When angry, count ten before you speak. If very angry, a hundred.
Thomas Jefferson.

Leaders of Today

2010-11-01T11:58:00.000-04:00

True leaders have an understanding of the present, and a vision for the future. To be successful as a leader in any industry, you must:

Prepare to be a leader.
Understand leadership.
And then be prepared to assume the leadership role in your organization.

Your journey must not end here. In fact, your journey will never end as a true leader.
Leadership is about reaching for the stars, and when you reach one, reach for the next one, It's exciting, it's fun, and it's the essence of life.

The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do well. and doing well whatever you do. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Leadership Gurus 2011

2010-10-26T16:22:00.002-04:00

The Best Leadership Gurus Voting for 2011:

by Orrin Woodward on Thu 16 Sep 2010 12:59 PM EDT

The voting is now taking place for the Top 30 and Top 25 Leadership Guru list. I will attach the links if you would like to vote. Thanks in advance and keep leading and learning on your journey to success. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

http://leadershipgurus.net/index.html - Vote for Top 30
http://www.topleadershipgurus.com/index.php - Vote for Top 25

From the Leadership Gurus 2011 Poll:

Leadership Gurus is your ultimate compass in directing you to the world's Top 10 and Top 30 leadership gurus, leadership speakers and leadership trainers across the globe 2010. If you are looking for the best presenters in leadership, change management, leadership development, leadership training, change leadership, leading leaders, and MORE, then let Leadership Gurus International be your guide.

Who are the worlds Leadership Gurus?

Leadership Gurus International, combined with public feedback, independently rates leadership trainers and leadership speakers from Asia, the Americas, Australia and Europe to determine if they have attained “guru” status. Only those leadership speakers and trainers who have attained “guru” status are featured on this site. Each of them has also been bestowed the GURU Award of Excellence based on our criteria.

Vote for the Best Leadership Gurus 2011 here.

Read on and vote you will find wisdom from top Leadership Guru's and Leadership Trainers such as John Maxwel l, Ken Blanchard, Orrin Woodward, Arthur F. Carmazzi, and Robin Sharma.

Reading

2010-03-18T18:33:00.000-04:00

A vice-president of a Fortune 500 company was getting to know a newcomer in his division, so he asked him what he liked to read. "I'm not really interested in reading," the man said. To which the vice-president said, "Then you aren't really interested in succeeding around here."

Morton Blackwell of the Leadership Institute said: "People who don't read cheat themselves." In a speech titled "Read to Lead" Blackwell continued: "By not reading, they limit what they can achieve, make mistakes they could avoid, and miss opportunities that could improve their lives. Finally, as the gaps in their knowledge become apparent, they must reconcile themselves to not being taken seriously." (emphasis mine)

Glad that's not the case with the leaders of MonaVie Team. As near as I can tell, the top 10 leaders devour 75-85 books a month between them and they've been doing that for the past 7-10 years. How confident are you that the leaders in your organization are that committed to self improvement?

Leaders are readers. Period. If you're not a reader, you're NOT a leader. You may be a manager, but you are no leader. And if that bothers you (as it should) then start reading. Find a mentor who you know is well read and ask for guidance in selecting books. I suggest you begin with these 5:

The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz, PhD
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
How I Raised Myself from Failure to Success in Selling by Frank Bettger
How to Have Confidence and Power in Dealing With People by Les Giblin, and
Positive Personality Profiles by Robert Rohm, PhD

Don't like to read? Then start with Read and Get Rich by Burke Hedges. The info in this book will blow you away! And if you haven't read the top 10 books ever written, he gives you the list. Any person who wants to be taken seriously would have these ten in his or her library - and will have read them!

So, how's your reading going?

Or have you just decided to not be taken seriously?

ACTION

2010-03-11T18:27:00.002-05:00

A couple of great quotes:

"We cannot do everything at once, but we can do something at once."- Calvin Coolidge

"An idea not coupled with action will never get any bigger than the brain cell it occupied."- Arnold Glasow

One thing I've always admired about the MonaVie Team leaders is that they are men and women of action. They get things done. Because they take action, the MonaVie Team has become an idea whose time has come. There is no stopping it. It will become the biggest business on the planet.

That's pretty big.

Thanks for your example Team. Keep moving.

Code of Conduct

2010-02-23T23:48:00.000-05:00

On page 140 of Jeffrey Marx’ book “Seasons of Life”, we find that Joe Erhmann’s code of conduct revolves around four masculinity traits which Joe claims form ”the moral and ethical foundation” of a man built for others. As I read, I couldn’t help but think of the MonaVie Team leaders - men truly built for others, who

Accept responsibility.
Lead courageously.
Enact justice on behalf of others.
Expect God’s greater rewards.

I encourage you to get the book to read what he has to say about these traits. It will be food for thought. I’ve personally watched many Team MonaVie leaders accept responsibility, lead courageously and enact justice. That’s what the Team is all about - teaching men to embrace these traits themselves by taking advantage of the Team training system which levels the playing field for anyone with the courage to want to improve their life.

As far as expecting God’s greater rewards, let me quote from the book as to what Joe meant by that. Here’s Joe explaining it to Jeff: (p145) “I think there is a time when God is going to reward people that were relationally just and lived a life filled with cause. You don’t need to “get it all” in this world. You can say “no” to an awful lot of things (italics his) so that you can be focused on other people. Ultimately, there is a day of reckoning. And that is for all eternity. You don’t have to have the biggest house, the biggest car, all that kind of stuff once you get there, and by knowing that, by expecting God’s greater rewards, you can free up your time and energy to be about other people, to be about your causes.”

A few years ago, two men - Dallin Larsen and Orrin Woodward decided to be about other people and to be about their cause – creating, with God’s grace and hard work, the best business on the planet. It's the best because it gives everyone an equal opportunity and a proven game-plan or receipe, that when followed, creates success.

When they got started, Dallin and Orrin didn’t necessarily expect great rewards; but they did decide to share whatever rewards came with others. Take a moment to research the MORE Project, and All Grace Outreach. They did expect that God would be true to his character and would be just. And of course, God is.

Because these men had great vision, were willing to take responsibility, lead courageously, and were willing to teach others to do the same, the MonaVie Team will one day be a household word.

Question: Are YOU a man built for others? Or maybe I should just ask, Are you a Man?

2010-02-04T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here at last are the final 10 of the behavioral maxims so indelibly self-imprinted on our country's first President, and for that matter no doubt, countless other future leaders, many of whom are currently growing in abilities and stature on the MonaVie Team.

101st Rince not your Mouth in the Presence of Others.

102nd It is out of use to call upon the Company often to Eat nor need you Drink to others every Time you Drink.

103rd In Company of your Betters be not longer in eating than they are lay not your Arm but only your hand upon the table.

104th It belongs to the Chiefest in Company to unfold his Napkin and fall to Meat first, But he ought then to Begin in time & to Dispatch with Dexterity that the Slowest may have time allowed him.

105th Be not Angry at Table whatever happens & if you have reason to be so, Shew it not but on a Chearfull Countenance especially if there be Strangers for Good Humour makes one Dish of Meat a Feast.

106th Set not yourself at the upper of the Table but if it Be your Due or that the Master of the house will have it So, Contend not, least you Should Trouble the Company.

107th If others talk at Table be attentive but talk not with Meat in your Mouth.

108th When you Speak of God or his Atributes, let it be Seriously & [wt.] Reverence. Honour & Obey your Natural Parents altho they be Poor.

109th Let your Recreations be Manfull not Sinfull.

110th Labour to keep alive in your Breast that Little Spark of Celestial fire Called Conscience.

Well, there they are. A few additional table manners and bringing the list to a close, a final strong three regarding spirituality. I need not elaborate, but I cannot resist imploring you dear reader, to pay the closest attention to #110.

I hope that as you read these 110 nuggets of wisdom over the past few weeks, they got you thinking. I'll wager that most you weren't exposed to these in your history classes in school. In fact, I'll bet you were taught few of the founding principles, and little if any of the truth about the founding of this great nation.

Would you like a better America? Then you must become a better American. And that starts with a better understanding of what made this country great.

As Orrin Woodward said in his article referenced above, "Few people will sit down and slog through a 250 page book on historical, political, religious, or even personal development anymore. I would love to see everyone do so, but in order to create the hunger, Chris and I wrote bite sized morsels to get people thinking in these areas and more."

Orrin was referring to his book, "Leadership and Liberty" which I highly recommend. You will find it easy to digest and very illuminating. Hopefully, it will stir your interest to discover truth!

The Next 20

2010-02-02T14:58:00.000-05:00

Here are the next twenty maxims of George Washington's "Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation". Enjoy!

(Ferry Farm, c. 1744)
81st Be not Curious to Know the Affairs of Others neither approach those that Speak in Private.

82nd Undertake not what you cannot Perform but be Careful to keep your Promise.

83rd When you deliver a matter do it without Passion & with Discretion, however mean the Person be you do it too.

84th When your Superiours talk to any Body hearken not neither Speak nor Laugh.

85th In Company of these of Higher Quality than yourself Speak not til you are ask'd a Question then Stand upright put off your Hat & Answer in few words.

86th In Disputes, be not So Desireous to Overcome as not to give Liberty to each one to deliver his Opinion and Submit to the Judgment of the Major Part especially if they are Judges of the Dispute.

87th Let thy carriage be such as becomes a Man Grave Settled and attentive to that which is spoken. Contradict not at every turn what others Say.

88th Be not tedious in Discourse, make not many Digressigns, nor repeat often the Same manner of Discourse.

89th Speak not Evil of the absent for it is unjust.

90th Being Set at meat Scratch not neither Spit Cough or blow your Nose except there's a Necessity for it.

(All great - especially #90 during flu season. Now, on to more Table Manners)

91st Make no Shew of taking great Delight in your Victuals, Feed not with Greediness; cut your Bread with a Knife, lean not on the Table neither find fault with what you Eat.

92nd Take no Salt or cut Bread with your Knife Greasy.

93rd Entertaining any one at table it is decent to present him wt. meat, Undertake not to help others undesired by the Master.

94th If you Soak bread in the Sauce let it be no more than what you put in your Mouth at a time and blow not your broth at Table but Stay till Cools of it Self.

95th Put not your meat to your Mouth with your Knife in your hand neither Spit forth the Stones of any fruit Pye upon a Dish nor Cast anything under the table.

96th It's unbecoming to Stoop much to ones Meat Keep your Fingers clean & when foul wipe them on a Corner of your Table Napkin.

97th Put not another bit into your Mouth til the former be Swallowed let not your Morsels be too big for the Gowls.

98th Drink not nor talk with your mouth full neither Gaze about you while you are a Drinking.

99th Drink not too leisurely nor yet too hastily. Before and after Drinking wipe your Lips. breath not then or Ever with too Great a Noise, for its uncivil.

100th Cleanse not your teeth with the Table Cloth Napkin Fork or Knife but if Others do it let it be done wt. a Pick Tooth.

There you have it - And we wondered where our parents came up with their rules for the dinner table. Can't you hear them? .....Get your elbows off the table....don't blow on your soup.....don't talk with your mouth full.... Bet you say the same things to your kids!

I am amazed at how many people haven't been taught good table manners! I've seen some incredible things sitting across from "folks". One of my favs is "Lets see how much I can stuff in my mouth!" Why take small bites when you can put it all in there at once? Is this an efficiency move? Doesn't matter - its disgusting!

As we journey through life, one of the greatest skills we can improve upon is how well we relate with others. There have been some great books written about relatability: "How to Have Confidence and Power in Dealing with People" by Les Giblin and Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" are a couple of classics. And "Leadership Tidbits and Treasures" by Chris Brady and Orrin Woodward also spring to mind. Great books all.

But don't forget - your table manners tell a lot about you! Check yourself here!

The Young George Washington Speaks

2010-01-25T16:10:00.006-05:00

I hope you've been examining these maxims from G. Washington's early development and applying them to your own life. I mean, that's why I've taken the time to put them here. As I said in my last post, it's our privilege and responsibility to improve and grow - at any age. As Orrin Woodward says, "Not everything that happens in life will be a bowl of cherries, but with greater understanding comes greater wisdom to live by." How are you doing at gaining greater understanding?

Here are the next 20:
(Ferry Farm, c. 1744)
61st Utter not base and frivilous things amongst grave and Learn'd Men nor very Difficult Questians or Subjects, among the Ignorant or things hard to be believed, Stuff not your Discourse with Sentences amongst your Betters nor Equals.

62nd Speak not of doleful Things in a Time of Mirth or at the Table; Speak not of Melancholy Things as Death and Wounds, and if others Mention them Change if you can the Discourse tell not your Dreams, but to your intimate Friend.

63rd A Man ought not to value himself of his Atchievements, or rare Qualities of wit; much less of his riches Virtue or Kindred.

64th Break not a Jest where none take pleasure in mirth Laugh not aloud, nor at all without Occasion, deride no mans Misfortune, tho' there Seem to be Some cause.

65th Speak not injurious Words neither in Jest nor Earnest Scoff at none although they give Occasion.

66th Be not froward but friendly and Courteous; the first to Salute hear and answer & be not Pensive when it's a time to Converse.

67th Detract not from others neither be excessive in Commanding.

68th Go not thither, where you know not, whether you Shall be Welcome or not. Give not Advice without being Ask'd and when desired do it briefly.

69th If two contend together take not the part of either unconstrained; and be not obstinate in your own Opinion, in Things indiferent be of the Major Side.

70th Reprehend not the imperfections of others for that belongs to Parents Masters and Superiours.

71st Gaze not on the marks or blemishes of Others and ask not how they came. What you may Speak in Secret to your Friend deliver not before others.

72nd Speak not in an unknown Tongue in Company but in your own Language and that as those of Quality do and not as the Vulgar; Sublime matters treat Seriously.

73rd Think before you Speak pronounce not imperfectly nor bring out your Words too hastily but orderly & distinctly.

74th When Another Speaks be attentive your Self and disturb not the Audience if any hesitate in his Words help him not nor Prompt him without desired, Interrupt him not, nor Answer him till his Speech be ended.

75th In the midst of Discourse ask [not of what one treateth] but if you Perceive any Stop because of your coming you may well intreat him gently to Proceed: If a Person of Quality comes in while your Conversing it's handsome to Repeat what was said before.

76th While you are talking, Point not with your Finger at him of Whom you Discourse nor Approach too near him to whom you talk especially to his face.

77th Treat with men at fit Times about Business & Whisper not in the Company of Others.

78th Make no Comparisons and if any of the Company be Commended for any brave act of Vertue, commend not another for the Same.

79th Be not apt to relate News if you know not the truth thereof. In Discoursing of things you Have heard Name not your Author always A Secret Discover not.

80th Be not Tedious in Discourse or in reading unless you find the Company pleased therewith.

Now, go back and read #s 65-70 and 73 again. I'll bet you know some folks who break #65 all the time - tearing people down with a snide comment and then defending themselves by saying they were "just kidding". Let me ask this: do you like being around them or being the target of their put-downs? No? Then do something about it!

Basic people skills like these are sadly lacking in most of our socializing aren't they? Well, why not decide to be the pattern breaker? Yeah - YOU!

I recommend that you read Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady's best selling book, "Launching a Leadership Revolution", particularly the section on servant leadership in the Level Three chapter. By the way, that chapter ends with a fascinating story about George Washington's servant leadership. Read that, and reflect back on these maxims that he made a part of his life.

George Washington - the next 20!

2010-01-19T18:25:00.002-05:00

Here are the next twenty maxims of George Washington's "Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation". Enjoy!

(Ferry Farm, c. 1744)

41st Undertake not to Teach your equal in the art himself Proffesses; it Savours of arrogancy.

42nd Let thy ceremonies in Courtesie be proper to the Dignity of his place [with whom thou conversest for it is absurd to act the same with a Clown and a Prince.

43rd Do not express Joy before one sick or in pain for that contrary Passion will aggravate his Misery.

44th When a man does all he can though it Succeeds not well blame not him that did it.

45th Being to advise or reprehend any one, consider whether it ought to be in publick or in Private; presently, or at Some other time in what terms to do it & in reproving Shew no Sign of Cholar but do it with all Sweetness and Mildness.

46th Take all Admonitions thankfully in what Time or Place Soever given but afterwards not being culpable take a Time and Place convenient to let him him know it that gave them.

47th Mock not nor Jest at any thing of Importance break no Jest that are Sharp Biting and if you Deliver any thing witty and Pleasent abtain from Laughing thereat yourself.

48th Wherein you reprove Another be unblameable yourself; for example is more prevalent than Precepts.

49th Use no Reproachfull Language against any one neither Curse nor Revile.

50th Be not hasty to beleive flying Reports to the Disparagement of any.

51st Wear not your Cloths, foul, unript or Dusty but See they be Brush'd once every day at least and take heed that you approach not to any Uncleaness.

52nd In your Apparel be Modest and endeavour to accomodate Nature, rather than to procure Admiration keep to the Fashion of your equals Such as are Civil and orderly with respect to Times and Places.

53rd Run not in the Streets, neither go too s]owly nor with Mouth open go not Shaking yr Arms kick not the earth with yr feet, go not upon the Toes, nor in a Dancing fashion.

54th Play not the Peacock, looking every where about you, to See if you be well Deck't, if your Shoes fit well if your Stokings sit neatly, and Cloths handsomely.

55th Eat not in the Streets, nor in the House, out of Season.

56th Associate yourself with Men of good Quality if you Esteem your own Reputation; for 'tis better to be alone than in bad Company.

57th In walking up and Down in a House, only with One in Company if he be Greater than yourself, at the first give him the Right hand and Stop not till he does and be not the first that turns, and when you do turn let it be with your face towards him, if he be a Man of Great Quality, walk not with him Cheek by Joul but Somewhat behind him; but yet in Such a Manner that he may easily Speak to you.

58th Let your Conversation be without Malice or Envy, for 'tis a Sign of a Tractable and Commendable Nature: And in all Causes of Passion admit Reason to Govern.

59th Never express anything unbecoming, nor Act against the Rules Moral before your inferiours.

60th Be not immodest in urging your Friends to Discover a Secret.

How about #56? And #58 and #59? I mean, they're all good, but some really stand out, don't they? For a bit different look at numbers 58 & 59 - which really speak to being pleasant around people, take the time to read Chris Brady's post of January 5th.

Remember as you read these, that Washington took them seriously enough to write down and follow at a young age. They had a major impact on his character development and his character was the foundation of his leadership abilities.

Our country is at a crossroads today. What do you think Washington would make of the professional politicians whose greed and lack of character have put us in this position? Remember that you have the power through your vote to change the cast of characters in Washington DC. You have the privilege and responsibility to educate yourself - to seek the truth and then do something about it. If you love this country and care about your children and grandchildren, here's a good place to start.

2010-01-04T21:07:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year! Here are the next ten maxims of George Washington's "Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation". I hope you enjoy them!

(Ferry Farm, c. 1744)
21st Reproach none for the infirmities of Nature, nor Delight to Put them that have in mind thereof.

22nd Shew not yourself glad at the Misfortune of another though he were your enemy.

23rd When you see a Crime punished, you may be inwardly Pleased; but always shew Pity to the Suffering Offender.

24th Do not laugh too loud or too much at any Publick Spectacle.

25th Superfluous Complements and all Affectation of Ceremonie are to be avoided, yet where due they are not to be Neglected.

26th In Pulling off your Hat to Persons of Distinction, as Noblemen, Justices, Churchmen &c make a Reverence, bowing more or less according to the Custom of the Better Bred, and Quality of the Person. Amongst your equals expect not always that they Should begin with you first, but to Pull off the Hat when there is no need is Affectation, in the Manner of Saluting and resaluting in words keep to the most usual Custom.

27th Tis ill manners to bid one more eminent than yourself be covered as well as not to do it to whom it's due Likewise he that makes too much haste to Put on his hat does not well, yet he ought to Put it on at the first, or at most the Second time of being ask'd; now what is herein Spoken, of Qualification in behaviour in Saluting, ought also to be observed in taking of Place, and Sitting down for ceremonies without Bounds is troublesome.

(I must admit some confusion with regard to #27! I'm sure if we had been around 200 years ago, someone would have made it clear to us as to when we could put our hats back on.)

28th If any one come to Speak to you while you are Sitting Stand up tho he be your Inferiour, and when you Present Seats let it be to every one according to his Degree.

29th When you meet with one of Greater Quality than yourself, Stop, and retire especially if it be at a Door or any Straight place to give way for him to Pass.

30th In walking the highest Place in most Countrys Seems to be on the right hand therefore Place yourself on the left of him whom you desire to Honour: but if three walk together the mid[dest] Place is the most Honourable the wall is usually given to the most worthy if two walk together.

3st If any one far Surpassess others, either in age, Estate, or Merit [yet] would give Place to a meaner than himself in his own lodging or elsewhere the one ought not to except it, So he on the other part should not use much earnestness nor offer] it above once or twice.

32nd: To one that is your equal, or not much inferior you are to give the cheif Place in your Lodging and he to who 'tis offered ought at the first to refuse it but at the Second to accept though not without acknowledging his own unworthiness.

33rd They that are in Dignity or in office have in all places Preceedency but whilst they are Young they ought to respect those that are their equals in Birth or other Qualitys, though they have no Publick charge.

34th It is good Manners to prefer them to whom we Speak before ourselves especially if they be above us with whom in no Sort we ought to begin.

35th Let your Discourse with Men of Business be Short and Comprehensive.

36th Artificers & Persons of low Degree ought not to use many ceremonies to Lords, or Others of high Degree but Respect and highly Honour them, and those of high Degree ought to treat them with affibility & Courtesie, without Arrogancy.

37th In Speaking to men of Quality do not lean nor Look them full in the Face, nor approach too near them at lest Keep a full Pace from them.

38th In visiting the Sick, do not Presently play the Physicion if you be not Knowing therein.

39th In writing or Speaking, give to every Person his due Title According to his Degree & the Custom of the Place.

40th Strive not with your Superiers in argument, but always Submit your Judgment to others with Modesty.

What a great one to end this post! I wish each of the politicians we have in office today would act with a measure of humility rather than lashing out when anyone dares oppose them - which marks them as having very little emotional intelligence (or should I just leave it as "little intelligence"? Yeah, I think I'll stick with that)

Now, if any of you had a thought of perhaps incorporating any of these into your New Year Resolutions, You might want to take a look at Chris Brady's New Years Eve post on his blog! Good Stuff! And while you're at it, check out Orrin Woodward's New Years Eve post as well.

And, if you're at all interested in any of our first President's other personal papers or documents, here's a good place to start.

Washington & Woodward - Men of Character

2009-12-24T06:01:00.007-05:00

As we close in on the end of a tumultuous political year, I thought it appropriate to review George Washington's "Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation". Is it just me, or does it seem to you that many of our federal politicians have no understanding of the words "civility" and "decent behavior"? It's either that or that they choose to be boorish. Many of them have no shame. They tell us outright lies and actually expect that if they tell us whoppers long enough and loud enough, we'll believe them. Sadly, many do. Sadder yet is the fact that we put these people in office.

What would the great General - our first President - a Man among men, think of the cast of characters now ensconced in the city called by his name? Most of Washington's biographers have regarded these 100 Rules as formative influences in the early development of his character. Oh that such men were still being formed in this country today! Their country needs them very much. We need to build our lives upon the solid foundation of good character and morals, not just on gifts and abilities. Thank God there exist such folk and institutions who still hold truth dear and are striving to produce such leaders as Washington today. We pray for their success.

Consider each maxim applicable to the 21st century, and think on the people you elected (or allowed to be elected) to represent you, and ask yourself, does their behavior indicate their agreement or disagreement? What does that say about their character?
I've mentioned in earlier posts that I believe Orrin Woodward to be a man of great character. Years ago, he made a study of Washington and this list, which is what piqued my curiosity. Some of those foundational concepts later on resulted in his and co-author Chris Brady's NY Times Bestseller, "Launching a Leadership Revolution".

Here we are fortunate to glimpse a portion of Washington's studies at about age sixteen - about 265 years ago. I plan on implementing as many of these maxims as are appropriate for the present time and I invite you to do the same. We'll leave the language, spelling and punctuation as Washington recorded it. Off we go then with the first 20:

1st   Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present.

2d   When in Company, put not your Hands to any Part of the Body, not usualy Discovered.

3d   Shew Nothing to your Frend that may affright him.

4th   In the Presence of Others Sing not to yourself with a humming Noise, nor Drum with your Fingers or Feet.

5th   If You Cough, Sneeze, Sigh, or Yawn, do it not Loud but Privately; and Speak not in your Yawning, but put Your handkercheif or Hand before your face and turn aside.

6th   Sleep not when others Speak, Sit not when others stand, Speak not when you Should hold your Peace, walk not on when others Stop.

7th   Put not off your Cloths in the presence of Others, nor go out your Chamber half Drest.

8th   At Play and at Fire its Good manners to Give Place to the last Commer, and affect not to Speak Louder than Ordinary.

9th   Spit not in the Fire, nor Stoop low before it neither Put your Hands into the Flames to warm them, nor Set your Feet upon the Fire especially if there be meat before it.

10th   When you Sit down, Keep your Feet firm and Even, without putting one on the other or Crossing them.

11th   Shift not yourself in the Sight of others nor Gnaw your nails.

12th   Shake not the head, Feet, or Legs rowl not the Eys lift not one eyebrow higher than the other wry not the mouth, and bedew no mans face with your Spittle, by appr[oaching too nea]r him [when] you Speak.

13th   Kill no Vermin as Fleas, lice ticks &c in the Sight of Others, if you See any filth or thick Spittle put your foot Dexteriously upon it if it be upon the Cloths of your Companions, Put it off privately, and if it be upon your own Cloths return Thanks to him who puts it off.

14th   Turn not your Back to others especially in Speaking, Jog not the Table or Desk on which Another reads or writes, lean not upon any one.

15th   Keep your Nails clean and Short, also your Hands and Teeth Clean yet without Shewing any great Concern for them.

16th   Do not Puff up the Cheeks, Loll not out the tongue rub the Hands, or beard, thrust out the lips, or bite them or keep the Lips too open or too Close.

17th   Be no Flatterer, neither Play with any that delights not to be Play'd Withal.

18th   Read no Letters, Books, or Papers in Company but when there is a Necessity for the doing of it you must ask leave: come not near the Books or Writings of Another so as to read them unless desired or give your opinion of them unask'd also look not nigh when another is writing a Letter.

19th   Let your Countenance be pleasant but in Serious Matters Somewhat grave.

20th   The Gestures of the Body must be Suited to the discourse you are upon.(Ferry Farm, c. 1744)
Expect a few more in my next post. I want to give enough time to really think these through.

Leadership and Liberty~ Rave Reviews

2009-11-19T14:22:00.006-05:00

Chris Brady and Orrin Woodward are recieving rave review and national attention for

Leadership and Liberty Pieces Of The Puzzle.

http://orrinwoodward.blogharbor.com/

Orrin Woodward Hits Top 25 Leaders List - Honorable Mention

2009-09-25T09:42:00.003-04:00

Social Media is here to stay and growing more everyday. Here is a list of Orrin Woodward's social media sites.

Orrin Woodward Facebook

Orrin Woodward Author

Orrin Woodward Twitter

Orrin Woodward Fishing

Orrin Woodward MySpace

Orrin Woodward Interview

Orrin Woodward LinkedIn

Orrin Woodward Books

Orrin Woodward Leadership Gurus

Orrin Woodward Articles

2009-03-09T20:57:00.004-04:00

Here are some top articles from Orrin Woodward's blog in the last several months. Stay tuned for more update from Orrin Woodward!

Orrin Woodward Loyalty

Orrin Woodward Redemption

Orrin Woodward Socialism Fails

Orrin Woodward Twitter

Orrin Woodward LinkedIn

Orrin Woodward Facebook

Orrin Woodward MySpace

MonaVie

Orrin Woodward's Leadership Blog Joins Alltop List

2009-01-01T14:05:00.002-05:00

Orrin Woodward's Leadership Blog joins the Alltop List.

I discovered some great news today. Guy Kawasaki’s new site Alltop has included this leadership blog in its Alltop Leadership category. This blog is listed just a couple of sites below Seth Godin’s blog! I have followed Guy Kawasaki since his book Selling the Dream. Over a decade ago, I bought this book because I loved the title. After reading it, I thought the content was spot on also. We need to sell the dream to people and then teach them how to accomplish that dream. I believe strongly in the principles that Kawasaki teaches in the book on evangelizing your products and services. The best products in the world without a passionate and enthusiastic community to share the benefits with others will not succeed. If you don’t believe in your product, how can anyone else? Guy has succeeded in many endeavors by focusing not just on making money, but in making an impact in our society. Kawasaki’s mission ties right in with the Team’s goals of Having Fun, Making Money and Making a Difference. I am not sure how this blog was selected for the list, but I am honored and will continue to provide first rate leadership teaching to the incredible reader audience on this blog. When Chris Brady and I wrote our book, Launching a Leadership Revolution, we had no idea that it would hit #1 on the Wall Street Journal best seller list for two weeks in a row. But I do know that a key ingredient was the evangelizing from our blog audiences. More evidence that a committed minority can make a huge impact! Enjoy your family time during the holidays and set a Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG) for 2009. 2009 is the year to shine! God Bless, Orrin Woodward

Networkers Creed II

2008-09-02T10:27:00.004-04:00

Here is a powerful article from Orrin Woodward on his leadership blog. Orrin Woodward has informative articles on Leadership, Faith, MonaVie, Amway, etc. This article will help you accept responsibility for the results in your life and business.

The subject of Networking can increase the temperature and lower the emotional intelligence of many fine people. Why can it be such a heated topic at times? I believe because it hits along the main ideological battles going on in our country currently. Are people owed a living simply by being born in the USA? Is the Biblical injunction, “He who will not work, will not eat” still valid today? Should someone be guaranteed success in Networking Communities simply for signing up or is it reasonable to expect them to perform? Is the person at the top in a Network someone who has earned this position through performance or just got in first? Is it right for people to “make money” off of other people’s efforts? These and many more questions are bandied about on a daily basis in living rooms, coffee shops and hotel meetings across the country.

Let’s get one thing out on the table right away. Networking success is not achieved by sitting at home and spamming the internet. Networking success is not achieved by magically sponsoring 3 leaders and they do all the work. The facts are that Networking is hard work, as is all achievement! If you want big results and hard work scares you then don’t get in the Networking field. All great achievement comes through learning the principles of delayed gratification for long term results. Our culture is so self-centered today that the thought of delaying gratification even for a couple of months causes many to overheat. I can’t blame them with a TV culture that has bombarded them with the belief that they deserve the good life with no effort or sacrifice, but eventually they must wake up to the reality of their situation to achieve success. Charles Sykes wrote a several fantastic books called, “A Nation of Victims” and “Dumbing Down our Kids.” The gist of the books can be captured by the titles. When we lower the bar on people - we do not create more champions, but more victims. This is what leaders do in a Network Marketing business, maintain a high bar for achievement. Networking leaders teach people the true rules of life and help people become champions in a culture encouraging victims.

In my opinion, there is no greater field to influence people in a positive direction than Network Community building. Instead of waiting for our countries politician to fix our country, why don’t we get out there in the living rooms of America and teach these principles ourselves. We can either be part of the problem or part of the solution and Laurie and I have chosen to be part of the solution! Read this list of 11 rules of life that Mr. Sykes wrote in the second book with my thoughts on each underneath.

RULE 1 - Life is not fair - get used to it.

Life does not deal everyone the same hand. Some our born billionaires through their daddy’s efforts and some are born broke and must work their way to the top. In networking you may get help from your upline, may be in the hot spot for opens or may have nothing but the opportunity and your dream. Either way, get over it and get moving.

RULE 2 - The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

We have too many people talking about self esteem without the corresponding teaching of work ethic to achieve a healthy self confidence. Confidence can only be built by making the sacrifices that the average person refuses to do. You begin to realize you are un-average only when you consistently do what the average person is unwilling to do. I love everyone unconditionally, but my respect is earned through your performance period. To gain confidence in the Networking field, you must be willing to be bad – long enough to get good.

RULE 3 - You will NOT make 40 thousand dollars a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice president with car phone, until you earn both.

Quit looking for handouts in life and start serving other people’s needs. Everything you need to know at the top must be learned at the bottom. This is why so many second generation children accomplish so little. Their parents believed they could skip the sacrifice step for their children and just hand people their victories. Life doesn’t work that way so quit waiting for your ship to come in and start building it! In the Networking field, your pay raise will become effective as soon as you do.

RULE 4 - If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss. He doesn't have tenure.

To maintain any position in the information age, it will require constant increases in your knowledge and skills. Those who think their education ends when their formal schooling ends are in for a rude awakening. One of the best parts of the Networking field is the constant emphasis on learning and growing. Customers in the Networking field and new distributors will vote with their feet if you do not serve their needs. This is free enterprise so get used to it. No one has to be part of your business and you earn their trust and respect every day.

RULE 5 - Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for burger flipping they called it Opportunity.

If you think you are above doing the basics in the living rooms then you will never earn the right to speak on the big stages. Achievement starts by doing the little things well and then receiving more responsibility from a job well done. Everyone starts at zero points in Networking and has to earn their ranks.

RULE 6 - If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

You will mess up. The only question is will you get bitter or better from the experience? Leaders in Networking teach their teams to expect some setbacks, challenges, and failures on your way to victory. The key is to learn from each one of your mistakes and never pass the buck. Leaders have learned to accept responsibility and have no part with the current love affair with victim status so prevalent in our culture today.

RULE 7 - Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you are. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

No one is a self made person. All of us have climbed onto the shoulders of the greatest minds and leaders in Western Civilization to enjoy the privileges we have. Never take for granted all of the people in your life who gave you a hand up instead of a hand out. If you desire to change the world, then begin by changing yourself. All great movements begin with an individual who was moved to change.

RULE 8 - Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as many times as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

Every night that you show the plan in a Networking business - you will pass or fail based upon your ability to sell your product and services. If the prospect does not get involved then they did a better job of selling their convictions than you did of selling yours. You pass or fail every night in this business and success is an inside job. Just remember that failure is never final and that further growth will lead to victories.

RULE 9 - Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on your own time.

The Networking field is open for business 365 days per year. You must determine how hard and how long that you will work for your dreams. It is sad that people will spend more time planning a vacation than they will in planning their life. I love the saying, “If it’s to be, then it’s up to me.” If your upline helps you then that is a bonus, but not a given nor a requirement. If you have a training system, then plug in and get going.

RULE 10 - Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

In the field of Networking the fantastic lifestyles that you see are the result of hard work. If anyone tells you that you can achieve that without a serious work ethic then they are lying to you. You are only limited by your ability to dream in a good Networking business and most people do a great job of limiting themselves.

RULE 11 - Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

Hans Christian Andersen wrote his classic “Ugly Duckling” story to capture the essence of someone (through hard work & association) changing from an ugly duckling into a beautiful swan. I love the Networking Industry because I have witnessed many people turn from the Ugly Ducklings into Beautiful Swans. Yes, you will be criticized for telling people they can be Beautiful Swans, but I would rather believe that and be criticized than give up my belief in people.

Leaders teach people to dream and hope again. There is no such thing as a “hopeless situation” only hopeless people in situations. A leader’s role is to give them hope, give them ideas, and give them the skills to change their situations. When they win, it is their victory, but you have the joy of having a front row seat in the process. If you are a leader in the Networking field then what you do is a most noble of enterprises. You have the honor of leading the most precious asset of any country and that is the people. God Bless, Orrin Woodward

Acting Out Your Dreams Is the Key to Success

2008-02-06T15:28:00.000-05:00

"You see things; and you say 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say 'Why not?' "

-George Bernard Shaw

A great poem.....

2008-01-04T13:18:00.000-05:00

I was reading a book recently and came across a poem that I felt I had to share. It is...

I bargained with Life for a penny.
And Life would pay no more,
However I begged at evening
When I counted my scanty store.

For life is a just employer,
He gives you what you ask,
But once you have set the wages,
Why, you must bear the task.

I worked for a menial's hire,
Only to learn, dismayed,
That any wage I had asked of Life,
Life would have willingly paid.

So the moral of the poem is not to sit around and take what life gives you but to go out and get the most out of life!!!! You have 70 - 80 years to go out and create your legacy. What are you doing to ensure that your name is never forgotten?

Chuck Goetschel's post on Personal Mission Statement

2007-12-21T07:41:00.000-05:00

I highly recommend that everyone go to Chuck Goetschel's BLOG and read his post titled "Personal Mission Statement." This article was very insightful and has helped add some direction in my life. In this article, he helps the reader create their own Mission Statement.

http://chuckgoetschel.blogharbor.com/blog/_archives/2007/12/3/3388670.html

Orrin Woodward and the Power of Focus

2007-05-23T10:27:00.000-04:00

With the rapidly changing times that we live in today and the competitive unsecure workforce that our country is engulfed in, it is important to grasp a hold of a business model that will produce passive residual income to create stability, security and options. The Teams business system is available to those who are looking for a way to produce additional monies on top of their current job, and the system will enable many to leave their jobs if that is the mark they are shooting for. The system is an immaculately created machine that is churning out financial free independent business owner’s time in and time out. The key ingredient to this system is focus. Orrin Woodward has designed an impenetrable business model that will work so long as the individual works it. The IBO has to zero in on their goal and submit themselves to the system daily to attain the victories that are awaiting them. Learning to “see it with your minds eye,” is required for any IBO with a dream looking to advance themselves or other people in their teams through the Teams training process. Many new IBOs to the Teams business model are not readily equipped with this trait as they have been spawned by the media in America to lead lives that they cannot afford to live. Americans have been trained to think that “if they want it, they can have it,” after all, that is why they invented credit cards is it not? Americans are quick to take out a loan on a boat, or finance a computer due to their lack of will to wait until they have the disposable income to pay cash. This instant gratification mentality has swooped across our nation and the result is an average of $8,000 of credit card debt among the average American family. The Titanic is sinking, and we are straightening the chairs on the deck. In order for anyone to achieve success in this lifetime, they need to do a 180 with their thinking habits and learn to focus their thoughts and energy in the opposite direction.

Orrin Woodward teaches people that ‘delayed gratification’ is the only way to the top in any field. Think of your wealth as a snowball that you are starting to roll to create a snowman: When you first start to roll the ball of snow, it takes a while to build and increase in size, and after consistent effort and patience, the snowball will eventually reach a point of no control where each roll of the ball yields 100 times the effort put in at the early stages in the beginning. Orrin Woodward has explained that those who do not practice delayed gratification are those who take breaks and eat the snow while the ball is just beginning to take shape. This kills all chance of momentum and will undoubtedly create stagnation and undesirable results in ones life. The Teams system, if applied, will develop skill sets that are totally different than those that are developed and promoted via the mass media outlets in America. Everywhere you turn your head, whether on TV, the Radio, the Newspaper, a Magazine, or an Internet advertisement, we are told that we can have this and that with ‘no money down.’ We are programmed to believe that we deserve a new snowmobile, and we are taught to think that we have earned it with all the hard work we have done. The fact is this; if you do not have cash to pay for the new toy you are dreaming of, then you have not earned it. Living your life in debt will create unwanted stress and a lack of happiness will surely develop within your family starting with you spouse. “Unhappy wife, unhappy life.” Not to say that money can buy happiness, because it cannot. However, it will prevent stress due to the accumulation of interest that hits you month in month out due to all of the plastic you store in your wallet. The next time you feel an urge to make an emotional purchase for a new toy, car etc., creeping up inside of you, turn your thoughts on the Teams training system and focus your efforts on the results that you are shooting for. Once attained, you will be able to purchase all the toys money can buy, have the freedom to wake up to the sound of your kids playing at the foot of your bed, live stress free (aka: debt free), and have the time and money to help other people achieve the same results as you.

Orrin Woodward Team - Men of Character

2007-04-16T10:50:00.000-04:00

Saw a great post about another man of character - George Washington and his Thanksgiving Day Proclamation. This reminded me of Washington's School Exercises: "Rules of Civility & Decent Behaviour In Company and Conversation". These maxims originated in the late sixteenth century in France and were popularly circulated during Washington's time. Washington wrote out a copy of the 110 Rules in his school book when he was about sixteen-years old and I have heard Orrin Woodward refer to them occasionally. As I am exploring the subject of character, I thought it appropriate to capture these maxims again, both for my own self-improvement and for the edification of others who may be interested. Here goes. This exercise, now regarded as a formative influence in the development of Washington's character, included guidelines for behavior in pleasant company, appropriate actions in formal situations, and general courtesies, such as: "Superfluous Complements and all Affectation of Ceremonie are to be avoided, yet where due they are not to be Neglected" (#25); "Think before you Speak" (#73); and "Rince not your Mouth in the Presence of Others" (#101). Among the hundreds of volumes of Washington Manuscripts in the Library of Congress, two contain the school exercises of George Washington, written before he had reached the age of sixteen years. The one devoted to mathematics exhibits a wide range of subjects, combined with sureness and accuracy in working, and clearness and neatness of presentation. Few graduates of colleges to-day, unless they specialize in mathematics, become so well trained in that subject. The problems in surveying show that at sixteen Washington was fitted to earn his living in the field. The second book begins with legal forms, such as every planter should know: bills of sale and exchange, contracts, conveyances, deeds, leases, and even wills. The middle portion contains a Christmas poem, and also one entitled "True Happiness," which strongly suggest that the boyish love poems attributed to his pen were taken from some book, now unknown. Probably they expressed his feelings at the moment, and he copied them. The remaining ten pages of the second book are occupied by one hundred and ten "Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation," about which much has been written and little is known. These maxims were so fully exemplified in George Washington's life that biographers have regarded them as formative influences in the development of his character. During the days before mere hero worship had given place to understanding and comprehension of the fineness of Washington's character, of his powerful influence among men, and of the epoch-making nature of the issues he so largely shaped, it was assumed that Washington himself composed the maxims, or at least that he compiled them. It is satisfying to find that his consideration for others, his respect for and deference to those deserving such treatment, his care of his own body and tongue, and even his reverence for his Maker, all were inculcated in him early on, by precepts which were the common practice in decent society the world over. These very maxims had been in use in France for a century and a half, and in England for a century, before they were set as a task for the schoolboy Washington. Oh that we could rekindle a passion to once again consider these precepts "common practice in decent society"! I happen to believe that is in large measure what Orrin Woodward is doing with his Team - restoring character to society and I say: Bravo! More on the "Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation" in my next post.

an orrin woodward case study - fred harteis

2007-02-16T15:29:00.001-05:00

“Fred Harteis is doing one of the toughest jobs in the nation. And Fred’s doing it as a volunteer. This spirit of volunteerism and Fred Harteis’ generosity of spirit should serve as an example to us all. It requires great strength of character of put the interests of the group ahead of your own. Fred Harteis has that character. Fred is president of 2004 Independent Business Owners Association board.” – Orrin Woodward

Woodward: Fred what do you see as the primary role of IBOAI?

Fred Harteis: (IBOAI), Independent Business Owners Association Int’l, is dedicated to representing the interests of IBO’s, independent business owners powered by Quixtar.

Orrin Woodward: Was IBOAI founded in 1999 with launch of Quixtar Inc?

Harteis: Independent Business Owners have been represented by this board for more than 45 years, Orrin.

Orrin Woodward: That’s a little before my time, Fred.

Harteis: 45 years, means the IBOAI and its board dates back to the time of Rich DeVos, the founder of Amway Corporation, Orrin.

Orrin: Fred, I’ve heard your focused leadership style compared to Vince Lombardi’s.

Fred Harteis: Lombardi is an excellent role model in sports and business.

Orrin Woodward: I understand the sports analogy. The concept of TEAM is very important to me, too. But why in business, Fred?

Fred Harteis: Lombardi’s work ethic is as critical to business success as it is in building teams, Orrin.

Woodward: You have an incredible recall of motivational ideas, Fred. What’s one of your favorite Lombardi motivational reminder?

Harteis: Work comes to mind. Lombardi said that the only place success before work is in the dictionary. And he’s right. That thought gave me great encouragement when I was a young business man. I wasn’t sure that I was the smartest person who ever chose to go into business. But I knew that I could make the decision that no one would out work me.

Orrin: Why was that important, Fred?

Harteis: Because that was something that was within my control. It’s self deception to expect your ship to come in, if you haven’t sent one out.

Woodward: Any other team leadership wisdom to share, Fred?

Fred Harteis: Yes, Orrin. Faith, hard work, mentorship along with the right business vehicle - anything is possible in America. The American Dream lives.

Bonus Statement

Harteis Information: Harteis owns several global companies like Harteis International and a powerful technology firm, Biznet Productions.

Orrin Woodward Information: Orrin Woodward is co-founder of TEAM

orrin woodward develops other leaders...

2007-02-16T15:07:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest features of Orrin Woodward's leadership is that he invests the time to develop other leaders. Performing in business is admirable. Leading in business is impressive. But developing other leaders while performing and leading is incredible, and explains much of Orrin's success so far in the journey. Keep leading Orrin, the world needs it!

orrin - magic of thinking big

2006-11-10T12:02:00.000-05:00

I've just got to share Chris Brady's blog post of July 16th having just finished another reading of a truly great book - "The Magic of Thinking Big". Here it is:

"People often ask me what book, of all the millions that have been written, is my favorite. This is undoubtedly a difficult question to answer. It is easier if I am allowed to categorize books and then answer by category. While this may be an artful dodge of the question, it is the best I can do.

In the category of "success" or "personal improvement" my answer has always been the same: "The Magic of Thinking Big" by David Schwartz. This book was first published in 1959, but remains a classic. It is filled with timeless wisdom on the topic of success, and directly confronts the issue holding most people back in life; their lack of a big picture. The book is filled with nuggets on how to think big, dream creatively, and manage one's attitudes while turning defeat into victory.

Some of my favorite quotes are:

Life is too short to be little.

Believe, really believe, you can succeed and you will.

The more successful the individual, the less inclined he is to make excuses.

Resolve to live until you die.

It's better to wear out than rust out.

Einstein taught us a big lesson. He felt it was more important to use your mind to think than to use it as a warehouse for facts.

Action cures fear.

No one ever does anything worthwhile for which he is not criticized.

People are alike in many, many more ways than they are different.

Look at things not as they are, but as they can be!

These quotes are just a sample of the gold dripping from the pages of this timeless little book. As you can see, it contains some powerful stuff. If you choose to read it, it will be of great assistance in your life and career.

Think big! Dream big! Fulfill your destiny!! "

Well done Chris! I couldn't have said it any better myself. Thsi is exactly how Orrin Woodward lives his life.

Orrin Woodward - Commitment

2006-05-30T08:33:00.000-04:00

Saw this quote from Napoleon Hill the other day which reminded me of Orrin Woodward:

"It is a fact of life that most of us try and fail many times before we ultimately achieve the level of success that we desire. You can expect to travel the extra mile many times only to find fool’s gold at the end of some rainbows. But you will most certainly miss out on the great riches that await you if you quit trying. A superficial commitment to doing more than expected based only on what you expect to receive will not sustain you in the long term. Great achievement results from a commitment to do the right thing regardless of the consequences, and that commitment will ultimately lead you to the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow."

Thanks Orrin, for leading by example. You committed to do the right thing and never wavered.

Orrin Woodward of Team - Character by Design

2006-05-15T11:21:00.000-04:00

Orrin Woodward is an uncommon man. And one of the most impressive qualities of this uncommon man is his character.

It would be unrealistic to expect an inexpensive, mass-produced watch to perform with the same degree of accuracy as a finely crafted Rolex. They are not made with the same quality of materials or with the same craftsmanship.

Yet most of us somehow think that we don't need to pay any attention to our most important asset: ourselves.

Don’t leave something as important as your character to chance. Just as I have watched Orrin do, choose the character traits you admire, and work to develop them.

And don’t be discouraged when you stumble. Building character is a process that takes a lifetime to complete. Fortunately, like anything else, the more you work at character building, the better you become at it, and the better person you become.

I have proof. I know Orrin Woodward.

Team Orrin Woodward's Belief System for Success

2006-05-03T09:52:00.000-04:00

Here is Orrin Woodward’s Top 6 Beliefs for Success:

1. Orrin Woodward’s belief in God helps maintain perspective in success and failure.

2. Orrin Woodward's belief in others helps him develop win-win relationships.

3. Orrin Woodward’s belief in free enterprise helps him maintain an abundance mentality.

4. Orrin Woodward's belief in teamwork helps him develop others into team leaders.

5. Orrin Woodward’s belief in character and integrity ensures everyone has a equal opportunity.

6. Orrin Woodward’s belief in long term planning helps him plan for next generation leadership of the Team business.

Leading the Consumer Rebellion & Chris Brady

2006-04-25T09:20:00.000-04:00

We have caught up with co-author Chris Brady from the best selling Team of Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady. Over lunch we asked Chris some questions about the book Leading the Consumer Rebellion.

LCR: What motivated you to build your Team business?

Chris Brady: I knew what I wanted in life, but did not have the vehicle to achieve it. When I met Orrin Woodward and he shared some of the details of his business project, I got excited.

LCR: How do you explain the incredible success you two have had, from building the Team to writing best selling books?

Chris Brady: First we give credit to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Second I would say focus and persistence.

LCR: Aren’t you concerned about mixing religion and business?

Chris Brady: I would be more concerned with not answering truthfully. My faith has helped me immensely in overcoming roadblocks and challenges. I will not push my faith on anyone, but if you ask me a question then I feel bound to give you the whole answer.

LCR: I respect that. Chris, what do you see in your future?

Chris Brady: I see building communities of leaders that can affect culture with positive change. I see the Team becoming a major player in on-line communities through off-line relationships. I also see more books that can help a person develop into the leader they always wanted to be.

LCR: It seems you are convinced that anyone can be a leader? Aren’t there some people who will never be leaders?

Chris Brady: Yes there are some people who will never be leaders of people, but not because they couldn’t be. They are not leaders because they have chosen not to grow. Everyone should strive to be better and by utilizing the Team business systems they will learn to be better leaders. At the end of the day it is the responsibility of every individual to make something of their life and we want to help people achieve this. That is what I respect so much about Orrin Woodward. Orrin didn’t come from any wealth or have any advantages, besides his own attitude. Orrin is a mentor of mine because he has proven results and has earned my trust through years of proven excellence.

LCR: It sounds like you need the right business and the right leadership team to achieve success in business?

Chris Brady: I agree and would add a willingness to learn. Orrin taught me many principles and led me to many books and CD’s to learn from, but I was responsible to take the information and apply. That is the key with life. Knowing the right thing to do, but not doing it still means failure. Terri and I made a decision early in our marriage to only take advice from people who had the results in life we want. Orrin and Laurie Woodward have the results and lifestyle we wanted and we applied the same principles and now have similar results. We wrote Leading the Consumer Rebellion to help others achieve their dreams and judging by its success, it seems to be working.

LCR: Chris thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share with our reader audience.

Orrin Woodward - Knowing What to Do

2006-04-11T08:43:00.000-04:00

Two quotes by Benjamin Disraeli that bring to mind Orrin Woodward,

"The greatest good you can do for another is not just share your riches, but to reveal to him his own."

"The more extensive a man's knowledge of what has been done, the greater will be his power of knowing what to do."

Thanks Orrin, for always pointing out my potential riches, and for being a great example.

Orrin Woodward - Set a Goal - continued

2006-04-05T12:25:00.000-04:00

In my last post I quoted the book "Conversations With Millionaires" and Mike Litman's interview with Jim Rohn, who had an intersting take on becoming a millionaire.

In their conversation Rohn said, "When I was 25 years old, my mentor said, 'I suggest Mr. Rohn, that you set a goal to become a millionaire...... for what it makes of you to achieve it."

Again: Set a goal to become a millionaire for what it makes of you to achieve it.

Rohn continues, "Do it for the skills you have to learn and the person you have to become. Do it for what you'll end up knowing about the marketplace, what you'll learn about the management of time and working with people. Do it for dicovering how to keep your ego in check....for what you have to learn about becoming benevolent.... for what you have to learn about society and business and government and taxes and becoming an accomplished person to reach the status of millionaire. All that you have learned and all that you've become to reach the status of millionaire is what's valuable. Not the million dollars. If you do it that way, then once you've become a millionaire, you can give your money away. Because it's not the money that's really important. What's important is the person you have become."

This is one of the best pieces of philosophy I have ever heard. And the man I know who did it the right way - the way described here, is my mentor, Orrin Woodward. Sure Orrin has gone from a struggling Platinum to fully qualified Founders Executive Diamond in the six 6 short years I've known him. But how he did it is what has earned him my admiration and respect. Orrin made himself the project. For the past six years, I have watched Orrin focus on improving himself and serving his team. He epitomizes the philosophy that Jim Rohn speaks about in the "Conversations..." book. Orrin Woodward has incredible results in all aspects of his life. That's why I'm following his lead as he builds his business.

Orrin Woodward - Set A Goal

2006-03-28T15:33:00.000-05:00

In the book "Conversations With Millionaires" Mike Litman interviewed Jim Rohn who had an intersting take on becoming a millionaire. In their conversation Rohn said,"When I was 25 years old, my mentor said, 'I suggest Mr. Rohn, that you set a goal to become a millionaire.' I was intrigued by that. You know, it's got a nice ring to it - millionaire. Then he said, 'Here's why.' I said, 'Gosh, you don't need to teach me why. Wouldn't it be great to have a million dollars.' Then he said, 'No, then you'll never acquire it. Here's why. Set a goal to become a millionaire for what it makes of you to achieve it.'"

Lets go over that again. "Set a goal to become a millionaire for what it makes of you to achieve it."

Wonderful advice. And I've watched Orrin Woodward on his journey. I'll go into more detail about this in my next post.

Orrin Woodward - An Enemy Called Average

2006-03-23T12:09:00.000-05:00

In his dynamic book An Enemy Called Average John Mason writes, "Average people compare themselves with others, but we should always compare ourselves with what we are called to be."

You and I can always find someone richer than we are or poorer than we are, healthier than we are or sicker than we are, taller than we are or shorter than we are. I hope you realize that however others "are" has no effect on what you are to be.

You are unique. You are one of a kind. Trying to copy others is to cheat yourself out of the fullness of what you are called to be and to do. As Mason says, "Imitation is limitation."

As Orrin Woodward would say, "We are not to be copies. We are, each one of us, born an original." "My prayer for you is that you decide to accept and become all you were created to be. I'll be cheering you on!" says Orrin Woodward.

Orrin Woodward on Prosperity

2006-03-20T10:23:00.000-05:00

In his book "Conversations with Millionaires", Mike Litman includes transcripts of his interviews with several successful people, one of whom is Mark Victor Hansen, co-author of the "Chicken Soup...." books.

Listen to what MVH has to say about prosperity. "Prosperity is a Latin word. It means 'to be in the flow'. And everyone of us is in the flow when we are thinking right, talking right, acting right and living right. We get the right results, right here and right now. And when you think negatively, you're into immobilization. When you're thinking positively and correctly, you're into mobilization and you start taking right action to get right results!"

Now the concept of prosperity isn't taught in any schools that I know of. Yet it is what we all really want....to be in the flow of 'good'. My own experience confirms what Hansen says here. It's really all about thinking. What you are, what you are becoming, starts with how you think.

It's great to know we can pick up a book or listen to a tape/CD to discover how people from all walks of life, including a man as successful as Orrin Woodward....... think.

Orrin Woodard of Team - Character

2006-03-16T17:58:00.000-05:00

George MacDonald said: "To be trusted is a greater compliment than being loved."

Anton Chekhov said: "You must trust and believe in people or life becomes impossible."

Think on these and ask yourself two questions:
1) Who do I trust and why?
2) Who trusts me, and why?

Don't your answers include some component of character or integrity?

Let's define Integrity as the qualities of absolute honesty, trustworthiness, uprightness of character and high moral principles.

Integrity can be practiced by doing the following: Tell the truth - always. Stand for what you believe in, even if the belief is unpopular. Use your power to work for the welfare of your teammates and not for your own personal gain.

I can categogically state that Orrin Woodward is a man of the highest integrity. He lives all three of these behaviors. In fact, Orrin has said that you can't even enter the field of leadership without integrity. He's right. I wouldn't be on his team if he didn't have integrity. I certainly trust him, and that has made a life of earning other people's trust possible. Thanks Orrin.

Orrin Woodward - Listening

2006-03-13T10:09:00.000-05:00

One of the skills Orrin Woodward has refined is the skill of listening.

Orrin would agree with Epictetus who said, "We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak." In fact, I've heard Orrin deliver that line repeatedly. I have found that if Orrin repeats something, it must be very important. And he lives this one. I can "hear" his example. And Orrin can "listen behind the words" which is a skill every great leader has developed. Management guru Peter Drucker said, "The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn't being said." The next time you listen to someone, try to listen for the meaning "behind" the words. You will be surprised how easy this really is.

Orrin Woodward - Character

2006-03-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

Orrin Woodward has said often said, "Leadership is influence."

The ideal leader is someone whose life and character motivate people to follow. The best kind of leadership derives its authority first from the force of a righteous example, and not merely from the power of prestige, personality or position.

So much of the so-called "leadership" we observe in the world today, which is often nothing more than the manipulation of people thru threats and rewards. This is not true leadership. It is exploitation, pure and simple. Real leadership seeks to motivate people from the inside, by an appeal to the heart, not by external pressure or coercion.

For all these reasons and probably more, leadership is not about style or technique as much as it is about character.

Orrin Woodward is a true leader because he is a man of character. His is authentic, heart-based leadership.

Orrin Woodward Empowering Beliefs

2006-03-05T13:11:00.000-05:00

In a recent speech to business owners in Kansas, Orrin Woodward told the audience that, "Wealth comes from proper thinking. The biggest thing I do as a leader is help people attack their limiting beliefs. Most people develop habits based upon limiting beliefs, and then live for years without questioning those original beliefs, forcing themselves to live with the results of those habits. Changing the results is a matter of changing the thinking."

Achievers have Self-Discipline - Thoughts from Orrin Woodward

2006-02-15T08:26:00.000-05:00

Written by Orrin Woodward

What do all great achievers have in common? During my life-long study of high achievers, and especially during these past few years while I have been building the Team, I have discovered one common trait that stands out above all others. Every great achiever has amazing self-discipline. What is self-discipline? Here are a few synonyms – self-control, discipline, willpower, restraint, strength of mind, strength of will, self-will.

I am regularly amazed by the number of people looking for shortcuts on their way to success. There is no quick or easy path to accomplishing any great achievement – at least no path I have discovered. Outstanding success is realized by disciplining yourself for longer periods of time and at a greater level when compared to your peers. And with discipline, your success over time begins to compound itself. It has been said that the toughest million you will ever earn is the first million dollars – and I agree with that statement. Olympic athletes, to the person, have amazing discipline when it comes to preparing, training and continuously visualizing.

There is no easy way to achieve great things - I recommend you introduce the habit of self discipline into your daily life, and grow to your potential.

Orrin Woodward's Top Economics Books

2006-01-24T08:59:00.000-05:00

Gather Around Everyone! I have requested and received Orrin Woodward's recommended economics books reading list. Orrin has read 1000's of books and I asked him to give a list and review of his top economics books for others to read. Here is the list for the whole Quixtar team.
The top economic books that shaped my thinking the most are:

Wealth of Nations – Adam Smith. This is the classic text on free enterprise economics and still one if not the best. Adam Smith shaped the minds of many of the founding fathers in our country.

Human Action – Ludwig Von Mises. This is the magnum opus from the best of the Austrian school economist. No economist I have read takes complex thoughts and describes as clearly as Mr. Mises.

Making of Modern Economics – Mark Skousen. The best basic primer on economic thought as well as the historic figures of economics. One of the first books I would recommend to anyone interested in economics.

Road to Serfdom – F. A. Hayek. This chilling book was written in the midst of WWII and is as relevant today as the day it was written, perhaps more so. Mr. Hayek stood on principles against an army of socialist thinkers describing what happens to freedom when economic liberties are taken lightly.

Economy in Mind – Warren Brookes. For a first rate discussion on how wealth is more a matter of mind than material I highly recommend this book. Mr. Brookes was an entrepreneur himself and had a gift of describing how the economy works through mental learning. An enjoyable read for anyone striving to be a top rate entrepreneur.

Religion and Capitalism, Allies Not Enemies – Edmund Opitz. No book better describes the economics of the Bible in laymen’s language than this one. Every concerned American should read and master the material in this book.

Change Makers – Murray Klein. This book is more of an overview of the role of entrepreneurs in stimulating growth in the economy. Where would America be without its great legacy of entrepreneurship? An exciting read for every would be entrepreneur.

Orrin Woodward Team - Second Quote

2006-01-12T22:55:00.000-05:00

Remember when all is said and done, much more is said than done.

Orrin Woodward Team Quote

2006-01-12T22:53:00.000-05:00

It is not the size of the man in the fight that counts, but the size of the fight in the man.
Quixtar Team

Quixtar Team DCI's Billy Florence Corrects Internet Critic Scott Larsen

2006-01-12T22:48:00.000-05:00

Scott Larsen has unjustly attacked another diamond Billy Florence. Billy Florence is the past president of the IBOAI and one of the most respected leaders in the Quixtar business. Scott Larsen does not understand the basics of the Quixtar marketing plan. Scott’s analysis of Billy Florence’s SA-4400 was filled with logical errors and mathematical mistakes. This is the second diamond that has spelled out in detail Scott Larsen’s misleading commentary and outright errors. Interestingly, Scott Larsen has not retracted his article or offered a public apology for his inappropriate behavior. Stay tuned as the story unfolds. Here is Billy's letter.

Dear Mr. Larsen:

I have recently taken the time to review some the statements and information you have published about my business and me on http://www.amquix.info. While I respect your right to express opinions and beliefs, making false and damaging statements about my business and me is entirely unacceptable.

Unfortunately, the number of errors you make about my business and our entire business model demonstrates your lack of understanding of that business model. There are fundamental facts known to any established IBO, which you either don’t know or badly mangle. These "fundamental facts" are also easily accessible and could have been checked and verified prior to your posting. You present yourself as an expert source, but in fact you have merely taken a few facts grossly out of context and combined that distortion with directly false information. This is also completely unacceptable.

The purpose of this letter is to inform you of the accurate facts relative to the false information you have posted, and to demand that you correct the record immediately. Specifically, your post, dated January 30, 2005, contains false and misleading information, including the following:
The "custom SA-4400" to which you refer is a document prepared for my organization in cooperation with Quixtar and is copyrighted by Quixtar. I did not stamp a Quixtar copyright on the document. Please refer to the enclosed Statement from Quixtar for accurate information about the document.

You erroneously assert that an IBO with two qualifying legs must have at least 2500 PV in side volume to qualify for the leadership bonus. There has never been a side volume requirement to be eligible for the leadership bonus when an IBO has two qualifying legs. The accurate information is readily available by simply reading the Independent Business Ownership Plan, a copy of which is no doubt in your possession.

Near the beginning of your post, you accurately state that the SA-4400 "shows an income potential of $56,940 earned over 24 months or more." Conversely, later in your post you indicate that the form highlights a potential income stream of "$56,940/year." The plain language of the example contained in the SA-4400 provides that the $56,940 cumulative cash awards are "earned over a period of 24 months or more." The inconsistencies can only serve to confuse the reader.

You further state, falsely, that an IBO with two qualifying legs and 7500 PV in side volume would generate "at most $750/month" in leadership bonus. The correct figures may be ascertained by making a simple computation from the information provided in the SA-4400.
You claim that the Quixtar approved and copyrighted SA-4400 is "overly deceptive" and that by using the form I am deceiving others who rely in the information provided. However, the issues you raise are not subject to any meaningful debate because the underlying facts you use to support your premise are false and misleading.

Like others, I have undertaken the onerous task of reviewing your Web site and other locations for other false and misleading information you have published. If such information is found, I will also demand that you correct the record where appropriate.

I am demanding that, on or before January 17, 2006, you remove all of the foregoing false and misleading statements and information from your Web site or any other site or medium where they may appear. In addition, I am demanding that you promptly confirm to me, in writing, that you have taken such action.

I will not stand by and allow you to continue disparaging me with false and damaging statements and information. Your conduct has caused me damage and has damaged my business. If you fail to remove all of the false information and correct the record, I will take any and all measures to obtain the redress to which I am entitled.

Sincerely,

Billy Florence

Orrin Woodward Observations #5

2006-01-09T09:33:00.000-05:00

From Orrin Woodward. Here is installment number five in the Observations from Orrin series:

"Victory is a decision backed by commitment."

4th Installment of Observations from Orrin Woodward

2005-12-31T12:42:00.000-05:00

Orrin Woodward uttered the following statement at a Go Diamond weekend in early 2001:

"I'd rather listen to a thousand "no's" than one "I told you so."

More Observations from Orrin - #3

2005-12-20T07:06:00.000-05:00

Here is yet another installment of Observations from Orrin:

"Leadership starts with taking responsiblity."

Observations from Orrin Woodward #2

2005-12-12T14:16:00.000-05:00

Okay, here we go. I've assembled an entire list of these quips and quotes. Some are short and some are full paragraphs, but I'm sure you'll enjoy them. Here is installment number two of Observations from Orrin:

"A spine is a terrible thing to waste."

Observation From Orrin Woodward - #1

2005-12-05T16:44:00.000-05:00

We'll start with a simple but potent one:

"Problems are the price of progress."

Team

Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady - another book

2005-11-22T19:39:00.000-05:00

You've got to wonder how he does it. First, Orrin Woodward helps rocket the Team business across the nation, then he writes two very successful, best-selling books to teach the specifics of what he did and then the principles of leadership that it required. Now, the rumor mill has it that he has teamed up with partner Chris Brady once again to bring a new, Team-specific book to the world. This next book is rumored to be a compilation of articles and essays both Woodward and Brady have prepared for various reasons over the years while building their businesses. My source tells me, however, that there will also be some never-before-released material included, as well.
If this output is anything like the others, those of us that appreciate electronic commerce and the new economy have something to look forward to! More on this as I get more information.

BIO: Orrin Woodward

2005-11-14T09:37:00.000-05:00

BIO: ORRIN WOODWARD – CEO

Orrin Woodward has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Manufacturing Engineering from GMI and Business Administration training from the University of Michigan. He holds four United States Patents and an exclusive National Benchmarking Award for product analysis and has been recognized in national trade journals.

Woodward is acting Chair of the Policy Council. Orrin Woodward is also one of the most in-demand speakers in the industry. His highly popular Observations from Orrin appears monthly Team News and he has a nationally syndicated column.

Orrin Woodward's new Esource Quick Q Review

Orrin Woodward Articles

2005-10-26T17:17:00.000-04:00

Have you visited these blogs?

eSource-News Book Reviews Orrin Woodward

eSource-News BIO: Orrin Woodward

An Observation from Orrin Woodward

2005-10-19T16:31:00.000-04:00

"Leadership starts with taking responsiblity."

Orrin Woodward: Stay the Course

Woodward Nears End of First Year on IBOAI Board

Leading the Consumer Rebellion; Changing Times

Woodward Team News

Orrin Woodward Team News

2005-10-10T12:25:00.000-04:00

Here is another article about Orrin Woodward. One thing about Orrin Woodward is that he is never satisfied with good enough if better is possible.

Orrin Woodward of Team - Working with Others

2005-10-06T23:56:00.000-04:00

Came across these quotes recently which remind me of Orrin Woodward:

"Great discoveries and improvements invariably involve the cooperation of many minds. I may be given credit for having blazed the trail but when I look at the subsequent developments I feel the credit is due to others rather than to myself."-- Alexander Graham Bell

That's how Orrin feels about the Team.

"No matter how much work a man can do, no matter how engaging his personality may be, he will not advance far in business if he cannot work through others."-- John Craig

That's what Orrin continues to teach his leaders.

"The greatest ability in business is to get along with others and influence their actions. A chip on the shoulder is too heavy a piece of baggage to carry through life."-- John Hancock

Orrin would agree wholeheartedly with one of this country's boldest founding fathers. Just as John Hancock is forever associated with the American Revolution, so too will Orrin Woodward be marked by history as one of the founding fathers of the Internet Revolution.

Orrin Woodward Statements Worth Remembering

2005-10-03T09:28:00.000-04:00

At the recent convention, Orrin Woodward had some great teaching on success and the principles it takes to win. One of my favorite quotes was:

"When you play on a winning team, it's not work to go to practice."

Another great point was made along the lines of Orrin's quote: "Most people have a WHY TO problem, not a HOW TO problem!"

And in the category of leadership:

"Real leaders never blame others, nor do they take the credit for team victories."
"Leaders serve. Period."

As always, great information. Hope you can use it to further your own success!

Leading the Consumer Rebellion Enters Fourth Edition

2005-09-07T12:05:00.000-04:00

The highly successful book Leading the Consumer Rebellion, written by authors Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady, has recently been released in its fourth edition. The book continues to thrill business audiences throughout the western hemisphere, and continues to get better with the release of each new edition.

Team News and Press Releases

2005-08-30T07:48:00.000-04:00

Orrin Woodward Team news and press releases can be found at this Team website. This website includes Orrin's visit with John Maxwell and more....

Orrin Woodward Books

2005-08-17T15:47:00.000-04:00

Additional Orrin Woodward Book information can be found on this Orrin Woodward Book information website.

Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady of Team - Launching A Leadership Revolution

2005-08-15T17:12:00.000-04:00

Orrin Woodward & Chris Brady have hit a home run with their latest book, "Launching A Leadership Revolution".

Sure to become one of, if not the most influential book about a subject which many have spent a lifetime trying to master, "Leadership Revolution" is undeniably insightful, well researched and easy to read.

Orrin and Chris have put the lessons they have learned in the last ten years of building an incredibly successsful business into a book, so that anyone with an interest in self -improvement can learn what made them successful.

It's interesting to me that while so many companies try hard to protect the ideas which make them successful in the marketplace with trademarks and patents, Orrin & Chris give their secrets away - for the price of a book. As Orrin is fond of saying, "Everything rises and falls on leadership".

There's a big secret right there!

If you have ever been interested in succeeding in life, my advice to you is this. Get the book and happy reading!

Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady of Team - Leading the Consumer Rebellion

2005-07-24T17:40:00.000-04:00

The co-founders of the Team, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady have recently become best sellers. Their book entitiled "Leading the Consumer Rebellion" has officially sold over 100,000 copies and no wonder.

Orrin and Chris continue to improve people's lives by showing them how they too can own and build a business. The information contained in this book should excite the person who is wondering, "How can I take advantage of the explosion of E Commerce? How can my family and me benefit from all the business that's being done online?"

The answers are in this short yet powerful book. I encourage you to get a copy, read it and act on it. Your financial freedom is what's at stake.

Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady of Team - Leading the Consumer Rebellion

2005-07-23T11:56:00.000-04:00

Why should you read Leading the Consumer Rebellion by Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady of Team?

Because the internet has changed EVERYTHING and if you don't understand why or how, you're likely to become extremely disappointed!

Quoting Robert D. Hof in the June 20th edition of Business Week, the interet is "a big, hairy, monstrous organism. The nearly one billion people online world-wide - along with their shared knowledge, social contacts, online reputations, computing power and more - are rapidlybecoming a collective force of unprecedented power. For the first time in human history, mass cooperation across time and space is suddenly economical."

This "peer power presents difficult challenges for anybody invested in the status quo. Corporations, those citadels of command-and-control, may be in for the biggest jolt. Increasingly, they will have to contend with ad hoc groups (like the Team) of customers who have the power to join forces online to get what they want."

"Its the democratization of industry" says C.K. Prahalad, a University of Michigan Stephen M. Ross School of Business professor and co-author of the 2004 book, The Future of Competition: Co-Creating Unique Value With Customers. "We are seeing the emergence of an economy of the people, by the people, for the people"

If you'd like more information about how you can take advantage of what is happening TO you, I'd suggest you pick up Orrin and Chris's book. They are truly "leading the consumer rebellion" that world experts are now commenting on in every business publication around the world.

Orrin Woodward of Team - Example

2005-06-07T00:16:00.000-04:00

One of life’s greatest joys is the sense of wonder that accompanies the arrival of a tiny new human being into the world. But that joy is accompanied by a tremendous responsibility that perfectly encapsulates the need for personal initiative. You can provide children with all the physical advantages of a good childhood, but unless you strive to set a good example for them to follow, you will know only dismay as they reach adulthood and blossom into purposeless drifters.

The same can be said for the friends and associates you gather in life. Your personal initiative, whether or not you are raising a child, must always incorporate exemplary behavior. You cannot take ethical shortcuts, big or small, without other people observing them and assuming that this behavior is something you wouldn’t mind having turned back on yourself. Certainly you will make mistakes, but if you have always striven for the best course, others will remember it and treat you accordingly.

That's why Orrin Woodward will be treated with respect for the rest of his life. His behavior is at all times exemplary and he constantly strives to do his best. Those closest to Orrin respect and love him for who he is - the man who shows us, by his effort, what is possible.

And I'm certain that some dislike Orrin, because they see in him proof, that had they worked as hard as he did to improve themselves (but were too lazy or stubborn to do so) they too could have been great. It's much easier to be angry with someone else than to take responsibility for oneself - but of course that is the lazy man's way.

My advice: don't be lazy. The lazy man achieves nothing. Work to earn the respect of people like Orrin Woodward.

Orrin Woodard of Team - Seeing the Good

2005-05-12T19:50:00.000-04:00

Saw in interesting quote yesterday: "NO ONE IS SO GOOD THAT HE HAS NO BAD IN HIM, AND NO ONE IS SO BAD THAT HE HAS NO GOOD IN HIM."

We human beings are a complex lot. Most religious writings and great literary works are based upon the constant struggle between good and evil that goes on inside every one of us - a struggle that is as old as mankind itself. Yet, while we recognize our own inner struggles, most of us are often quick to condemn others. Not so Orrin Woodward. Years ago, Orrin decided to focus on the good he found in others and point that out ot them.

Rather than being so quick to criticze, why not make it a point to look for the good in others? Nurture the good character traits. Like plants in a garden, the character traits that grow strong and productive will be those that are fed, watered, and weeded regularly. Feed the good and watch the results.

Orrin Woodard of Team - Character

2005-04-25T17:05:00.000-04:00

This Napoleon Hill Site keeps feeding me great stuff that reminds me of Orrin Woodward. To wit:

"HONESTY AND HARD WORK ARE COMMENDABLE TRAITS OF CHARACTER, BUT THEY WILL NEVER MAKE A SUCCESS OF THE PERSON WHO DOES NOT GUIDE THEM TOWARD A DEFINITE MAJOR PURPOSE"

"Character is an important element of success and a critical attribute of leadership, but character alone cannot ensure success unless it is channeled in a positive direction. When good, decent people-persons of character-connect with a major purpose for their lives toward which they willingly and enthusiastically direct their energies, the results can be awe-inspiring. A major purpose and outstanding character are a formidable combination."

Orrin's results are truly awe inspiring. What, you ask, are these results? Orrin is engaged in the business, no, the passion, of leading millions of people to economic freedom. No, the Team isn't there yet, but, we are well on the way.

Thanks Orrin for being a person of character and for discovering your purpose.

Orrin Woodward of Team - Mental Attitude

2005-04-24T22:42:00.000-04:00

Saw this post on the Napoleon Hill site:

"CHARACTER IS ACCURATELY REFLECTED IN ONE'S MENTAL ATTITUDE"

"Without a strong foundation built on positive character traits, success will not long endure. It is virtually impossible to fake good character. Phonies are quickly spotted because they haven't the substance and determination to maintain the charade.

Developing good character begins with a positive attitude. Your desire to be a good, decent, honest, considerate person must first take place in your mind. When you make the decision to become a person of character, you will also find that you are much more willing to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing to do."

Orrin Woodward is a man of character - that is why his success and the success of the Team will endure. Orrin decided to become a person of character and has led many to make that same decision. I'm proud to be part of such a great Team of people.

Orrin Woodward of Team - Setting the Example

2005-04-15T13:00:00.000-04:00

Recently saw a post on the Napoleon Hill site which reminded me of Orrin Woodward:

"IF YOU CAN’T MANAGE YOUR OWN MENTAL ATTITUDE, WHAT MAKES YOU THINK YOU CAN MANAGE OTHERS?"

"Why is it that often those who believe they would be the best managers of others - if they were only given the opportunity - haven’t learned to manage themselves properly?

Before you can ever have any hope of managing others effectively, you must first learn to set an example for others to follow. It is simply impossible for you to inspire others to high levels of achievement if you cannot inspire yourself to do the same. Don’t make the mistake that many others make by saying, "When they make me a manager, I’ll show them I can manage." The first move is yours. You must first prove yourself worthy."

There it is again. Taking responsibility for yourself before all else. Why is it that so many people miss that? As Orrin has always demonstrated, that is the key to living a successful life. So many people either completely miss it or worse - refuse to acknowledge it.

Substitute the word "Lead" for "Manage" thrughout the above text and you'll get a similar and perhaps more powerful message. As an old friend of mine once said, you manage machines and equipment and processes. You need to lead people.

Thanks Orrin, for always disciplining yourself, and leading.

Orrin Woodward of Team - Listening

2005-04-07T23:59:00.000-04:00

Another observation from Napoleon Hill:

"EVERY BRAIN IS BOTH A BROADCASTING STATION AND A RECEIVING STATION

Whatever the actual science of thought transmissions may be, it is true that if you wish to receive the power contained in the thoughts of others, you must condition your mind to receive those ideas.

Listening helps condition your mind to receive valuable information contained in the thoughts of others. Set aside any preconceived notions you may have about the topic, and listen attentively and nonjudgmental to what is being said. Focus on the information, not on the speaker. Try to identify key concepts behind the speaker’s words.

Train your mind to identify and absorb information that others often miss because their "receivers" are not tuned to the proper frequency."

Orrin Woodward is one of the best "receivers" I know. It's one of the reasons for his incredible success. He has trained his mind to really focus on the speaker and eliminate all other thoughts. He "connects" in a real way that the other person can sense. It's incredibly effective.

Orrin Woodward Team Resources

Orrin Woodward- Scams, Coercion, And Network Marketing-Part 1

Timeless Words!

Life Adversity Quotient!

An Announcement From The Bridge!

A Fork In The Road!

EQ

The Touch Of The Master's Hand!

Frederic Bastiat & The Fallacy of the Broken Window

Thomas Jefferson, Would Not Be Proud!

A Servant Leader!

Creating A Learning Organization!

Control And Leadership!

"Profiles In Courage!"

Humor Relief

A Vision for the Future

The Leadership Role

Leadership Process

Solution Oriented

Competent Teamates

Common Sense

Taking Risks

Strive to be the Best

Take Responsibility

Adversity or Opportunity

Leading the Pack

Keep Moving Forward

Example

Having Vision

Blame

Jealousy

Excessive Pressure

Humility of a Leader

Leaders Don't Lose Their Temper

Leaders of Today

Leadership Gurus 2011

Who are the worlds Leadership Gurus?

More on Reading

Reading

ACTION

Code of Conduct

The Next 20

The Young George Washington Speaks

George Washington - the next 20!

Washington & Woodward - Men of Character

Leadership and Liberty~ Rave Reviews

Orrin Woodward Hits Top 25 Leaders List - Honorable Mention

Orrin Woodward Articles

Orrin Woodward's Leadership Blog Joins Alltop List

Networkers Creed II

Acting Out Your Dreams Is the Key to Success

A great poem.....

Chuck Goetschel's post on Personal Mission Statement

Orrin Woodward and the Power of Focus

Orrin Woodward Team - Men of Character

an orrin woodward case study - fred harteis

orrin woodward develops other leaders...

orrin - magic of thinking big

Orrin Woodward - Commitment

Orrin Woodward of Team - Character by Design

Team Orrin Woodward's Belief System for Success

Leading the Consumer Rebellion & Chris Brady

Orrin Woodward - Knowing What to Do

Orrin Woodward - Set a Goal - continued

Orrin Woodward - Set A Goal

Orrin Woodward - An Enemy Called Average

Orrin Woodward on Prosperity

Orrin Woodard of Team - Character

Orrin Woodward - Listening

Orrin Woodward - Character

Orrin Woodward Empowering Beliefs

Achievers have Self-Discipline - Thoughts from Orrin Woodward

Orrin Woodward's Top Economics Books

Orrin Woodward Team - Second Quote

Orrin Woodward Team Quote

Quixtar Team DCI's Billy Florence Corrects Internet Critic Scott Larsen

Orrin Woodward Observations #5

4th Installment of Observations from Orrin Woodward

More Observations from Orrin - #3

Observations from Orrin Woodward #2