1. 1. Do you often feel obligated to do things you don't really want to do?
2. 2. Do you feel a lack of a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day?
3. 3. Do you work longer hours, on a regular basis, than your colleagues do?
4. 4. Do you put off doing the difficult, boring, or unpleasant parts of your job until the very last minute?
5. 5. Do you feel overwhelmed by time constraints?
6. 6. Do you run late at the most crucial times?
7. 7. Do you feel you have no control over some things in your life?

If you answered "yes" to any or "ALL" of these questions, you aren't alone! In today's fast paced, stress filled environment, everyone in the working world is under that same overwhelming pressures to perform...and perform well.  Juggling all the facets of your daily work load can be daunting. Unanswered emails, labor intensive detailed projects, never ending paperwork, meetings, angry customers, computer problems, unmotivated employees, micro-managing bosses, and interrupting phone calls eat away at those precious minutes all day long.

Not to mention the "other half of your life" at home!  The laundry that keeps piling up, the family crisis that just keeps getting worse, your dog is losing his hair,  and the "I really need to get this done!" projects haunt our thoughts when we stop to think about it. And when we DO stop to really evaluate, we realize that our dilemma goes much deeper than just a shortage of time or lack of good time management skills. We consider it a "personal characteristic flaw" that we now obsess on!

It's not just the hard work, but the feeling that you "haven't accomplished a thing you needed to do today" syndrome, that wears us down and produces anxiety which can lead to depression. "Great! I'm behind on everything and to make things worse...now I'm depressed about it!"There are many self help programs, books, workshops, web sites, and seminars that are dedicated to just this very topic, organization and time management. However, self evaluation of your own present use of time can be relatively simple by first analyzing your daily routines and habits to learn how to achieve better control of how you spend your time.

Carefully analyzing your time can actually earn up to 8 additional hours each week to spend on activities you so desperately want and need to do.  Start making your list and use these three tests to help evaluate your daily tasks so you may begin creating a plan for change.

1. 1. The Test of Necessity: Scrutinize each activity to see if it, indeed, it is necessary, (not just something "nice to do"), but something that is a true necessity. Sometimes we do things because we are stuck on "auto pilot" and it is something we just ALWAYS do, and many times continue doing far beyond its usefulness or original benefit. This helps to reduce daily tasks to the "basic elements".
2. 2. The Test of Appropriateness: Once you establish those necessary basic elements, the next step is to determine who should perform them, meaning selecting an appropriate person, department, or skill level. There are many activities that could easily be given to someone else, which would help that individual to learn more about the company's overall operation and help them grow in their abilities and skills. AND it would free up your time to do other tasks that are at your skill level and therefore, a better use of YOUR time.
3. 3. The Test of Efficiency: Finally, the third analysis examines "what is left". Once you are satisfied you are doing necessary, needed work, you should then ask yourself, "Is there a better, more efficient way of doing this task?" This will encourage you to find faster, more productive ways to handle reoccurring activities. Changing with the times, which includes more technological training and comprehension, up to date company policies / procedures, recent federal compliance changes, and even "out of the industry forward thinking" solutions, can make your time more productive and hopefully, less stressful, helping to calm your anxiety of that dreaded phrase, "I just didn't have enough time"!

Balancing ALL facets of your life, not just your work time, is a "read world" solution to good time management. Basically it all boils down to 3 ways to make better use of your time...

1. Discontinue low priority activities - Change your habits!
2. Find someone else to take some of your workload - Learn to effectively delegate!
3. Be more efficient at what you do - Scale down daily tasks to what's most important and how to do it better and fastest!

Done Reading

Join us on November 16^th at 2pm ET (11am PT)

http://www.multifamilyinsiders.com/home/shop-multifamily/products/view/2/14?amigosid=13Jackie

Jackie is a nationally renowned Keynote Speaker, Performance Consultant, and CMO Chief Motivational Officer for Ramstedt Enterprises, Inc. based in Austin, Texas. With more than 25 years experience in the multi-housing industry, Jackie has spoken to thousands of industry professionals on a national level for the National Apartment Association, the Multi Housing World Conference, Multifamily Pro Annual Brainstorming, the Institute of Real Estate Management and numerous state and local Associations.

The cost of this webinar is $29.99, but with the help of our sponsor, Bluelink, we have been able to offer a discount on the series.  Please take a moment to check them out!

Done Reading

The Power of the Blended Learning Approach

Information comes to us at blinding speeds these days and if you aren't one of those "technological geniuses" with a finger on the pulse of every one of the newest and latest gadgets of "human to human" contact, then you are already way behind!

However when it comes to training and educating our employees on skill sets and knowledge needed, what worked years ago just isn't cutting it today. We no longer have the luxury of spending days or hours in classrooms away from our jobs unless it really is the ONLY way to gain consistency with our company's message OR to help rejuvenate and reward employee performance with some appreciation events.

Real world "hands on" training done in the most efficient manner for both time taken and expense costs, is what we need today. Time is of the essence for everyone and cutting into an "already over exhausted, over scheduled" lifestyle, both professionally AND personally is NOT the answer!

Therefore we must begin with an assessment of what our people really NEED to learn and in what FORMAT that information should be given.

Looking back on a very "colorful" career in property management during these past 25 years, I myself have attended thousands of classes and workshops all created to "enlighten me" and "educate me" to whatever subject matter was presented and to "impress upon me" the significance of why THIS particular class was so important to my company and to my career, personally.

Until the last few years when the Internet has become a real factor in our overall educational efforts and options, training has traditionally been having the employees come to a classroom with an instructor, one on one training on location, that occasion conference call between upper management, or an "annual event" for selected employees driven to gain consistency of message for our companies.

According to the Sloan Consortium Report dated April 1, 2011, on line education has grown by almost 1 million students in our country since 2009, which has given rise to formats of webinars, chat forums, Skype conferences, video conferencing and self-paced training modules.

Special programs such as Elluminate Live and others allow the on line students to click on buttons to "raise their hands", "ask a question", and even "laugh at a joke" the instructor makes! Message boards, emails, or phone calls are all vehicles by which the student may interact between other class members and the instructor.

Academic leaders have predicted enrollment in such classes will continue to climb as convenience and efficiency of the on line learning continues to grow in demand. These "new formats" have created a new term in training ... "the blended learning approach" which offers just the right amount of education in various formats, for groups or specific individuals based on the "time frame" available for them to learn.

Analyzing our "educational needs" for each of our employees has a direct significance on which of those formats works best for our employee and our companies alike. This shift in training needs has created several companies who now specialize in this "blended learning" concept and have built very successful business partnerships from this demand by offering on line classes of various subjects to meet the multifamily industry concerns.

As a thought that ALL training might eventually shift to only online opportunities, many have asked me, "Do you think large meetings or annual events will begin to disappear as this online educational interest and availabilities grow?" Not at all! In fact, I believe that the "face to face" interaction you receive is the very foundation of ALL education and more importantly for building those lifelong relationships between professionals which is vital to everyone's success in any business.

Networking is life and the more you network, the more you gain credibility for your company AND yourself as a professional in our industry. Understanding the delicate "balance" between all forms of education and matching those decisions with the right person can make a huge difference in the success of your educational program and in your overall business performance this year.

Investing in that time away from work, coordinating efforts in planning, and more importantly justifying the money spent for these events on your employee's education as well as you own to gain growth and professionalism in this competitive world is really the answer.

That is exactly why I have created partnerships with many of our industry's greatest educational leaders to create my own version of "Jackie's Blended Learning" in the form of webinars and live stream TV shows.

Please join me this year as we open more opportunities to educate your teams. We are "IN IT to WIN IT! this year!

Don't forget to sign up for my Mpro TV series starting May 27th.

Done Reading

                  Everything, Everyday! Details

• Dates: Every Friday starting May 27th-August 19th
• Time: 1:00 pm EST, 12 noon Central, 11:00 am MST and 10 am PST
• Register: Everything, Everyday!
• Level: All
• Length: First season is 12 one hour episodes

                            Episode Guide

Episode 1 - BAD Boss = BAD Attitude!

With all that a manager has to do each day, the LAST thing they need is a visit from a "demanding boss" who needs something "now" ... and to make matters worse, these visits always seem to come 15 minutes before you have to leave for the day with requests that will take you hours to complete.  Sound familiar? This episode will help you spotlight the behaviors that can lead to attitude issues within your team, and learn to overcome them! Key takeaways will be: a strategy for educating your boss on exactly how YOU can be most effective for THEM; and the ability to take those last-minute requests and turn them into a positive, educational, and fun outcome!

Episode 2 - Employee Motivation and Progressive Discipline

Helping your staff to create good goal systems that tie in with your property or company goals and holding them accountable to achieve those goals is key to your property's success. However, when performance falls short of those expectations, a sound disciplinary approach can make the difference between saving or losing the employee. This episode introduces new ways to motivate your team, as well as effectively utilizing the concept of progressive discipline and how to apply it to keep your team productive and on-task!  Key takeaways will be: a strategy for creating and nurturing daily individual performance goals to align with company or owner expectations; and the ability to recognize those "danger zones" in an employee's performance and immediately and quickly turn their actions around.

Episode 3 - Mentoring:  Matching the Right People Together

Everyone has that certain "somebody" they feel comfortable going to for advice-whether it's the best place to eat Italian or how to solve a major life decision.  This is especially true in the workplace, where most of us spend the majority of our waking hours, and having a special "go to" person can make our team members more loyal, productive, effective, and satisfied in their careers.  This episode will cover all the key elements of creating and maintaining successful mentor relationships among the members of your team. Key takeaways will be: a strategy for analyzing your team members and their abilities then paring Mentors/Mentees for maximum compatibility, performance, and cooperation; and a proven incentive reward system for both your Mentors and Mentees.

Episode 4 - Working with Vendors

Most managers don't necessarily have a great knowledge base or skill set when it comes to maintenance issues, which makes speaking and understanding the language of outside vendors or suppliers somewhat difficult.  This episode will help you understand all the key aspects of the contract process from selecting the best vendor to creating "real world" working boundaries that are mutually beneficial for both your property and their company!  Key takeaways will be: the ability to match the right contractor with the right job; and a strategy for building a strong working relationship while establishing sound and effective boundaries.

Episode 5 - Today's Customer Demands

Today's consumers know what they want and know what they expect ... and they know exactly what to say and do when they feel as though their level of satisfaction isn't being met! This episode will focus on what today's customer expects of you, how to avoid dissatisfaction-and if you can't avoid it, how to deal with it when it occurs; making customer satisfaction work within your budget; building authentic relationships that foster patience and understanding on both sides, and more!  Key takeaways will be:  an understanding of exactly who your resident profile includes and how to anticipate their specific needs and demands; as well as how and where to look outside of our industry for impressive customer service programs with clout.

Episode 6 - Resident Retention Programs and Plans

"Perceived Value" is a huge piece of the pie when it comes to planning effective resident retention programs. This episode will focus on how to build that value into all that you do and gain increased retention as a result, from asking for input from the residents, to offering things that set you apart from your competition, and more!  Key takeaways will be: a strategy for creating customized retention programs that are specific to the size and style of your property, the size of your staff, and the best media for delivery and the ability to quantify your efforts while rewarding both your team and your residents!

Episode 7 - Hiring for Skill (And Not Just for Position)

Are you still hiring based on job descriptions from the 80s, or focusing more on filling the job with a person than finding the person who's right from the job?  This episode will focus on recreating job responsibilities and descriptions to match specific skill levels, so you can identify applicants who will fulfill-and not just fill-the job!  Key takeaways will be:  solid, proactive plans for finding great, qualified employees before you even need them; behavioral-based interview questions that you can use (as well as the ability to develop your own key questions) to really get to know the applicant; and the ability to define skill-based job requirements that support the abilities of the potential employee as well as the requirements for the position.

Episode 8 - Wild Card Day!

Have a great question or challenge for Jackie?  Send it in before this episode for a chance to have your question answered live on the air!  All questions and challenges are welcome-submit yours and get a great answer or solution!

Episode 9 - Self-Discipline and Time Management

We all know how it goes ... the work expands to fill the day, and it seems that there's always something or someone else to worry about before you can get down to the business of getting some of your biggest priorities done.  This episode is all about getting things done, including: goal-setting, task-tracking; improving your focus; figuring out what motivates you; the beauty of delegation; and more!  Key takeaways will be: a strategy for developing your ability to just say "NO"; a better-tuned understanding of what you can (and should) measure and manage, and how; and the ability to identify true priorities and structure your workday to more effectively get them done!

Episode 10 - Making MORE with LESS

Owners and investors have made tough decisions over the last few years; making budgets more difficult for us to stretch ... but with the economy making baby steps toward a positive turn, it's time to make money again! This episode will focus on ways that we can continue to increase cash flow while still living within the smaller budgets with which we're faced!  Key takeaways will be: the ability to develop a new approach to budgeting and employ that approach in making smarter daily decisions; and a better understanding of the importance of "buy-in" to creating and executing your budget, and how to obtain it!

Episode 11 - Gaining a Market Advantage Through Curb Appeal

Is your curb appeal ... well ... not very appealing?  Ditch those tattered, saggy banners; empty flagpoles; and dead balloon ribbons flying from bandit sign frames, and get back on the right track!  This episode will teach you how to keep the "front yard" pristine; how to create and use a grid map for maximum curb appeal effectiveness; why who and what company you use really DOES matter, and more!  Key takeaways will be:  great ideas for enhancing your curb appeal that you CAN use, even if you're held back by restrictive rules and laws; and how to attack with the "grid approach" and achieve superior results every day.

Episode 12 - Managing Conflict: a Multigenerational Approach

Occasional conflict in the workplace is a given, but managing it among members of different generations can require special understanding on your part and among the members of your team.  This episode will focus on the real differences between today's generations; how they play within the day-to-day interaction among team-mates; and how to both apply those insights to conflict resolution, and use them to foster a level of understanding and perception that will prevent conflicts from coming to bear.  Key takeaways will be: knowledge of the differences in how "work ethic" is perceived and defined by the various generations in today's workforce; a better understanding of how personality preferences play in today's work environment and their potential to cause (or avoid) conflict; how to harness the power of generational differences, and make them work for-and not against-your team's success!

       Jackie Ramstedt is a nationally renowned Motivational Keynote Speaker, National Trainer, Consultant, and Performance Coach who has more than 27 years experience in the multi-housing industry. She has spoken to thousands of industry professionals on a national level for the National Apartment Association, the Multi Housing World Conference, Multifamily Pro Annual Brainstorming Events, the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), Grace Hill, Inc. Educational Chat Forums, National Affordable Housing conferences, and numerous state and local Associations and management companies throughout the United States and Canada. Jackie is also a member of the prestigious Apartment All Stars Team national tours specializing in customer service, resident retention, leasing and management solutions. Jackie earned her CAM and CAPS designations back to back and her CAS (Certified Apartment Supplier) designation in 2001. Jackie was awarded the 2008 Faculty Member of the Year from her local Austin Apartment Association, where she has served on the Board of Directors and Education Committee Chair. Jackie is an accredited instructor teaching all designation courses as well as core and MCE courses for the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). Jackie's is an accomplished author and her articles have been featured in some of the industry's foremost leading publications. Her impressive clientele listing includes many of the national management and investment corporations in the United States. Her energetic and enthusiastic speaking style makes her seminars exciting with "real world solutions for real world challenges" empowering others to reach their full professional and personal potential through "balance" in their lives. Nothing is more contagious than enthusiasm!

Done Reading

    Interestingly enough, I've really never put much thought into astrological signs or their predictions of the path your life will take. However, while perusing my daily look on Facebook, I saw this posting for Aquarians from http://www.horoscope.com/, that caught my eye and since I AM an Aquarian thought I would check it out. It said for February 1, 2011...

    "Aquarians bring enthusiasm to the work they do, especially when it involves expression. They have an exceptionally high ability to put their imaginative qualities to the task and to think outside the box. Careers that allow for concept development or demonstration can suit this sign well. High intellect combined with an Aquarius' willingness to share their talents inspires many who work in the same environment. Being visionary types, Aquarians love to engage in careers that aim to benefit humankind in the long-run. Careers that suit the Aquarius are acting, writing, teaching, photography, or piloting. The best environment is one that gives the freedom to tackle the task without a lot of strict guidelines."

    Wow! You know this really does seem to match who I am, so maybe looking at some famous Aquarians might help to see, if by chance, their characteristics are similar to mine.

    There are 7,193 "famous people" born in February, including three of our most famous U.S. Presidents, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Regan who would have celebrated his 100th birthday this year, and numerous actors, actresses, singers, talk show hosts and NFL players, which explains my love of sports!

    Authors like Jules Verne who wrote "20,000 leagues Under the Sea" and John Steinbeck wrote "The Grapes of Wrath", which explains my concepts for "far reaching" ideas, Longfellow, which explains my love of poetry, Mario Andretti, which explains my "need for speed", and Johnny Cash which explains my love of wearing black.

    Garth Brooks for my love of the country life, Alice Cooper, which explains  my "dark side", Cindy Crawford, need I say it...beauty, and Bob Marley...OK I'm done...

    248 people were born on my birthday, February 8^th. Nick Nolte which explains my "crazy" factor, Gary Coleman...OK, got it... it's a "short" thing, and James Dean, yes we ARE cool!

    Boy Scounts of America was founded on February 8th, 1910! So Happy Birthday to me and them and all the scouts.

    But no matter when you were born or what your Zodiac sign may be, who you are is still "up to you".

    This month, try accepting who you are by reinforcing and strengthening your own "given" talents and not dwelling on things, characteristics, or "gifts" you don't have.

    February is the month for love, kindness, acceptance and giving back. Allow those who care about you to have that "good feeling" by giving back to YOU too.

    What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven in the lives of others.

Done Reading

"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you're the pilot."

Michael Altshuler, Entrepreneur

    The world around us is in a constant state of evolutionary change and the pace of which just continues to accelerate. Stress is at an all time high with people working so much desperately trying to balance work life with personal life! Does this sound familiar?

    "We start our day off early, sometimes it's even still dark outside. After getting all of our "other chores" out of the way, we arrive at work feeling like we have already worked half a day. We begin to bulldoze our way through a sea of paperwork and fight a myriad of employee and customer frustrations until we finally go home, LATE, toting  an armload of work STILL needing to be done! We begin to question ourselves, "What is it I am supposed to really be doing with my life? Where am I going? Why haven't things changed?" That is where most people are at this time of year... it's a New Year, but is it the same "old you"?

    This unfortunately, has been the embodiment of our property management industry for years. It seems like the more we give, the more that is taken. It's like chasing a psychotic "runaway train" with a never-ending source of fuel! We can never accomplish enough to get ahead...OR CAN WE?

    There are many individuals who are VERY successful in our industry. So what makes THEM so special? One major difference? Their approach to life....their ATTITUDE. They don't have fewer problems they just know how to deal with them and NOT let it affect their work, their goals, or their personal life.

Done Reading

     Oh joy! The holidays are here! That means everyone starts their annual rituals of "whirl wind" mass quantity buying sprees for foods you normally would never eat, hunting for that "extra special" gift for people who you know are going to either "re-gift it the minute they get home OR return it for the money, major schedule manipulations balancing work deadlines, party invitations and unique family gatherings so "those people" who talk smack about the whole family can get along for at least a few hours in the same room together, ALL WHILE our emotions are running rampant ranging from deliriously happy to borderline psychotic episodes.

     Well, let me remind you that the 1950's are long gone, and quite frankly never did exist except in the "minds of those family members who still today live in Mayberry". Family gatherings today have such different meaning as the "blending of people, cultures, and expectations" can be diametrically opposed. "That's not how we did it when I was growing up!" becomes the mantra for this special time of year.

     So how do we cope with such an increased stress level to not only live through this time of year without doing more damage to ourselves OR our families and friends?  Remember you can't change or control others, so your only alternative is to change YOU and YOUR responses.

     After researching several web sites on this matter, I found some terrific suggestions that made good sense and might be worth trying to help us all get through this overly sensitive time of year.

1. BE REALISTIC! Quit trying to make the people in your life change for YOUR expectations. Make a list of all those who will be involved and honestly ask yourself how they are going to react during this time and just prepare or work around those actions. Don't set yourself up for disappointment and then be angry because it didn't turn out like YOU wanted it to. Past behavior is a pretty good indicator of future actions.
2. GET YOUR REST! Now more than ever, sleep deprivation can be deadly during this volatile time of year. Patience levels will be at an "all time low" and sleep is the answer to rejuvenation of your tolerance abilities. You don't want this to be the "event" that divides your family or friends for life! And your immune system will also be challenged with the changes of the seasons. Nothing worse than being "sick AND tired" at the holidays!
3. Volunteer! Although ANY time of year is good for volunteering, we are inundated with reminders of how "blessed" we are and how "others are not". Make it a group effort by organizing groups of people at work, at school, in your neighborhoods, at your local associations, churches, charities, etc. , to volunteer for a few hours to just "help out" doing whatever. The REAL reason for this season is to "give back" to those who need your help the most. P.S. And as I said, you could actually be doing this all year long! People need people every day!
4. REFLECT ON THE HAPPY TIMES! Typically we humans love try and outdo one another by talking about who has had the most horrible "doom and gloom" story in our lives. Especially at the holidays, reflecting about those "bad memories" only makes you more anxious and upset BEFORE the event even occurs! Try and think about those happy or funny times that have happened throughout the years, and hopefully those stories will help roll over into more recent happy memories to talk about. Laughter truly is the best medicine!!!
5. MAKE A PLAN FOR 2011! We have all endured such difficult times these past few years with the economic challenges, job losses, home foreclosures, illnesses, etc., that 2011 really will be the "light at the end of the tunnel". Start reviewing the major areas of your life you want to improve. This ISN"T a New Year's resolution list cause those NEVER turn out to be beneficial. Instead this is an "Action Plan" for the New Year. Take a "real look" at what you have accomplished this year, reflecting on why those events turned out so well and decide how you can make them even better next year. Here are some areas to consider:

• a. Your Health: What do you need to do to get "healthy" and regain your energy level you once had? Taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking a few isles further from the front door is a great start on improving your endurance.
• b. Your Finances: How can you increase your savings and reduce debts? Even small amounts whether saving or paying off your debts makes a big difference in a year's time.
• c. Your Work: Nothing so conclusively proves a person's ability to lead others, as what they do each day to lead themselves. Where do you want to be at the end of next year and what do you need to do to get there?
• d.  Your Family: How can you make your family life better, smoother, more productive, more organized, less stressful? Remember if you don't have time for your family now, they won't have time for YOU later in life! They will learn to live without you.
• e. Your Education: What skills are you lacking to meet your career or personal goals? What classes will help you to become more a more valuable asset to your company? To yourself?

"Change is the essence of life. Be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become."

Happy Holidays from the Ramstedt Family to Yours!

Done Reading

     Most of you know I am always reading something because I'm always "waiting on something"....someone to pick me up, for the plane to arrive, for my baggage to finally show up, you know...waiting. So as not to leave one moment unproductive while I'm on the road, I am currently reading a great book by Marcus Buckingham and Donald Clifton called "NOW, Discover Your Strengths".

     What struck me as funny as I began reading was the fact that I am always trying to "uncover" the talents in others through role playing and other brainstorming exercises in my seminars and consulting sessions, to show them how to utilize those talents to get what they want in life, whether though a better career position or just by being more effective in their personal lives.  Rarely have I stopped to look in the mirror at my "own talents" or my "own strengths".

     The book begins with this question, "What DOES strong look like?"  Warren Buffet, one of the richest men in the world answers it this way...

     "I may have more money than you do, but money doesn't make the difference. I would rather have a cheeseburger from Dairy Queen than a $100.00 meal. The only difference between you and me is that I get up every day and have a chance to do what I love to do, everyday. If you want to learn anything from me, this is the advice I can give you."

     Then the author continues "So in a sense maybe he is right. Like the rest of us, he responds to the world around him in distinct ways. The way he handles risk, the way he connects with others, the way he makes his decisions, the way he derives satisfaction...none of which is random. They all form a pattern that is so stable his family and closest friends are able to recall its early tracings in the schoolyard in Omaha, Nebraska, half a century ago."

     Creating a life that is built around your own personal strengths is the key. I recall my own Mother who was such a role model for the family. Whatever "Mom said" was law. Her strength was her ability to balance a strong family and still have a demanding career in the early 1950's when women weren't in the workforce much yet. Mom was truly a woman ahead for her time. But as with Warren Buffett, Mom's strengths were clear even as a child; the oldest of 9 children and her own Mother (my grandmother) died when Mom was only a young girl herself. Mom took over the "role of mother" to her brothers and sisters. Her strength of character came from hard work, an unwavering dedication to her brothers and sisters, and the unyielding belief in doing what was right. Mom was "The Colonel".

     Dad's strengths came from that same "cut of cloth" of that era; a work ethic and a dedication to the family; quitting high school in 9^th grade to get a full time job. Dad was "The Worker".

     My sister's strengths are seen as the "glue of the family". She is and always has supported each of us with her unwavering love, devotion, praise, and her steadfast faith which has gotten her through some of the most traumatic times in any woman's life: the loss of a brother at an early age; the loss of her first child; the loss of our father when her husband was seriously ill, the loss of her husband, and now the loss of our mother, when she was her caregiver for over 8 years. Yet she still is the same...she is "The Nurturer".

     My awesome husband has many strengths especially designed to deal with this family and their incredibly head-strong personalities. His unwavering ability to "hold his position steadfast" no matter how tough the storms of discontent roar....and believe me we have had some storms over the years! He is "The Rock".

     So what about my own strengths? I guess I've taken a little bit of all who surround me. I glean the best from those I admire and respect most and look to my own patterns of actions over the years and where my "comfort level" lies. I know I can't be anyone, but me...the "authentic me", as Dr. Phil says. With all the incredible blessings I have received, both personally and professionally, and the challenges I have had to face over the years, I look within each day and ask for the strength, the guidance, the words, and the energy to help others find their direction, their mission, to overcome the challenges in their lives. My success comes from your success. I like to believe that I am "The Peacemaker".

Done Reading

     Fall is my all time favorite time of year!!! The temperatures start to get cooler, and in Texas that's something we all look forward to! Everyone's schedule begins to speed up...Friday night football games, Homecoming events, decorations of pumpkins, beautiful fall leaves, and scarecrows with bales of hay, laughter and giggles while eating tasty chili and delicious brisket, snuggly blankets on a hayride wagon pulled by horses, the warmth of a crackling fire, while cooking marsh mellows for "somores" ...and oh yeah...it's BUDGET TIME!!!!

     Just as we are enjoying a huge sigh of relief from "the summer slam of activities", we begin a whole new endeavor of gathering statistical information from the current year, analyzing our performance from every possible angle, contacting vendors for new bids regarding services and product changes for the new year, and examining every nuance of expense savings and cash flow opportunities!

     Of course preparation for this event is crucial: Items should include the following:

1. A full stocked "adult refreshment bar" for you AND your immediate supervisor. It is imperative that all parties involved are happy!
2. The "good candy", you know what I mean!
3. All types of "migraine medicine" to be "periodically combined" with the adult beverages for a more calming effect so you don't bite off everyone's head at work!
4.  A gross of pens, paper, pencils, a calculator, paperclips, file folders, highlighters, and any other type of office supplies you deem necessary to fill your desk to "look very busy all the time"!
5. Band aids for blisters on your fingers and wrist splints for your "carpel tunnel" wrist strains!
6. A Wee Gee Board and an Eight Ball to verify that your predictions are accurate.... "Decidedly So"....or are not ..."Outlook is Doubtful"!
7. And finally a "Keep Out or You're Fired Unless There is A Dead Body, and in That Case Knock and Come On In!" sign for your office door!

     Yes, this is the time of year when your patience is tested beyond normal levels and your ability to project into the future of how this multimillion dollar asset will perform in the coming months and years which hinges on your credibility as learned professional.  This is what your "real job responsibility" is all about!

     Suggestion? Get every member of your staff, including your supervisor, and divide the budget into categories that that particular employee is responsible and accountable for and have each of them research those categories for the best ways to improve ....some example:

• Assistant Manager: Collections, security deposits, compliance, basic lease information
• Leasing Consultants: Marketing budget, concession allotments , occupancy percentages, renewals
• Maintenance: All categories for each member's responsibility...painter, housekeeper, HVAC, landscaping, worker's comp claims, safety
• Supervisor: All "non controllable" areas such as the mortgage payment, insurance, reserve replacement accounts

     The more everyone on your team is involved in the overall predictions, the more accurate the information will be, and the better chances that your budget will be successful, as everyone has "personal buy in, commitment and investment" to achieve the goals for your community and for your management company, and your owners and investors because they had a "say" in the creation process.

     Will we get everything we want? NO, but we still need to do the best we can and get as close to a "real picture" for our employers. After all....

   "It's not the desire to succeed that assures success...it's the discipline to prepare yourself for it.!

Your Best Is Yet To Come!!!

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Have You Ever Been To A Brainstorming Event?

Tami Siewruk is a genius! There, I said it! If you are in the multifamily industry and don't know who this incredible woman is, then shame on you! You have missed out on over 15 years of the most unbelievable event ever to have been created for our industry...bar none!

This event is like NO OTHER you have ever attended or NONE OTHER in our industry today. Tami and her amazingly talented team have, year after year, produced this awe inspiring event that gets even better every year. Truly, I still don't know how she manages to be "bigger and better" EVERY YEAR!

The national talent Tami coordinates is composed of the industry's biggest and brightest professional stars facilitating, speaking, educating, and sharing all their knowledge of today's leading marketing, sales, management, social media, and training solutions and concepts.

I began attending in 1995 and haven't missed an event since. The people you meet, the networking opportunities you gain, and most of all the solutions and ideas you leave with are astounding! A few years ago Tami decided that even though 1,000 + people attending was, by any standard a huge success, wouldn't it be even better if we could get the owners and executives of the management companies to attend as well. Her thought was, when solving today's real challenges certain groups of people have "common" challenges based on their position.

So the event has grown into TWO sessions: The "Main Event" for Regional Managers, Training Directors, Marketing Directors, Directors of Property Management, Asset Managers, Multi Site Managers and On Site Property Managers AND an "Executive Session Event" for CEOs, Directors, Partners, Presidents, Principals, Executive Vice Presidents of Marketing, Management, and Human Resources, Senior Vice Presidents and Portfolio Asset Managers.

Here ALL LEVELS of property management can create specifically designed solutions with their "fellow peers" who have similar situations and concerns and could help one another with the "best of the best" synergistic solution ideas.

This year's theme is "Reality Check! Real Challenges, Real Solutions!" It is being held at the Sheraton Hotel in Dallas, Texas on September 14^th for our "Meet and Greet" session, both Brainstorming sessions on Wednesday, September 15^th, The Resource Room (Trade Show) and the First Round of TWO days of the industry's top speakers educational sessions on Thursday, September 16^th, and Round Two on Friday, September 17^th, wrapping it all up! And much, much more!

Log on today to register for the "best event you will have spent your money on this year",

 Multifamily Pro's Brainstorming Event!  I'll definitely see you there!

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Have Our Career Blue Prints Really Changed?

"Does Being A Good Sales Professional Make You A Good Manager?"

As with many individuals in the multifamily industry, I too started out "on site" as a leasing consultant. In those days just having a "friendly, outgoing  personality"  seemed to be the key to being successful. Listening to the customers and helping them with their housing concerns was an easy task and career advancements were sometimes more "being in the right place at the right time" than actual promotions. The  "natural career path" seemed to move through to the next level as Assistant Manager and then on to Community Manager.  It was either "survival of the fittest with the ability to learn on your own", or "have the good fortune of working for a company who actually believed in education" that allowed you to thrive.

But in this age of massive competition and marketing information overload, being "friendly or outgoing" is only a fraction of the skills needed to work in our highly competitive world today. You must make a difference for your very existence in any company.  Performance records, global reputation, and a positive attitude of doing whatever it takes to get the job done right within the boundaries of still being morally and ethically sound, will skyrocket your career to whatever heights you choose. 

So the question that is posed is this, "Can a good sales consultant have the skills necessary to become a good property manager?" I personally have lived through a plethora of job titles and responsibilities over my career life time, but I have realized that there ARE certain aspects of your abilities that DO have significant impact on your career opportunities and advancements.

Let's compare some of those skills and characteristics needed to be an effective sales consultant with those leadership qualities of a great property manager to determine the answer.

1. Business Minded - "Ownership mentality" on every decision made

2. Self Motivated - Not waiting for others to inspire you into action

3. Results Oriented - Having the ability to achieve your given directives

4. Organized - Keeping things in a systematic order for yourself & others

5. Passion - Having that "inner drive" for accomplishment & loyalty

6. Trust- Accepting responsibility & accountability for your own actions

7. Dedication - Follow through until the job is completed

8. Good Communicator - Articulating& listening well with others

So it seems that your skills determine the answer of your ability to advance to another position, and not necessarily just the "80's version" of the property management corporate ladder. The old, outdated versions of  those "job descriptions" are now being replaced with today's savvy skill levels to handle today's customer demands and companies' "real world" business challenges to meet owner's and investor's expectations.

Legendary Green Bay Packers football coach, Vince Lombardi once said, "You're only as good as your last game. You have to start all over each game proving your worth and talent." And so it is in any business. All the awards and educational degrees are only a history of "past successes". It's what you do NOW and TOMORROW that are the real tests of your career path no matter what your position to add value to your organization.

Here is a thought....If you re-wrote your resume today to include ONLY those accomplishments you have achieved within the past 12 months, could you still command the same or better position, respect, and salary you have today?  In other words have you helped achieve your company's goals and mission by making or saving the company "time, energy (efficiency) or money".  If you have, there will always be a position for you in any company. In other words...would you hire you?

However, if you haven't continued to plan, grow, get outside your comfort zone, stretch your abilities,  and educate yourself each year, your tenure will NOT allow you to be considered for your next career move or even to "keep you in the game", because....

"The Only Job Security You Have Is To Be More Talented Tomorrow Than You Are Today!"

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I have spent half my life with this man, and he has had a significant impact on the quality of my life and a huge part of the reason why I am as blessed and as successful as I am today. Many people ask us what the "secret" is to having that longevity of our relationship, and it's funny that Peter is always the first one to speak up to answer that question.

Most people might say such things as trust, love, respect, a good sense of humor, understanding, cooperation, compatible ethics, or compromise, which of course, ARE all very important aspects of any good relationship. But Peter always says that the real key to any relationship is having an open line of communication and listening to each other, something we both agree as being the top ingredient.

Our life has been a "partnership" from the very beginning. Believe me, over the years it hasn't been a ‘cake walk" by any stretch; dealing with a "blended family, exes, in laws, outlaws" and all the challenges that that alone brings, not to mention having extremely strong willed children with their "own" opinions of life in the heart of every aspect of our lives, our communication efforts get stretched and tested every day! One wrong word or phrase said at a time when the other person "isn't particularly happy at that moment", can mean weeks of anger, withdrawal, and bitterness, that takes weeks, months and in some cases "years" to overcome and mend. I'm sure you all know what I am talking about...that continual "roller coaster of emotions" looming over and affecting every aspect of your life!

 It's interesting how so many people underestimate the power of just "talking and communicating" in ANY relationship, whether personal with a spouse or "significant other", your children, your family members, neighbors, those in line at the store, or in business with those whom you work and with your clients and customers.

Peter and I are constantly testing our "good communication" theory in everyday events by examining how our own family communicates, how our friends communicate, how total strangers communicate with each other, how service staff, in general, communicate with their customers, and most recently, with those we met along our way on our trip to Atlantis in Nassau, Bahamas.

One would think that being in the Bahamas, a place where you go to unwind and relax, have those adult beverages with little colorful umbrellas in them while lying on beautiful white sands listening to the waves crashing on shore and the sound of those steel drums softly playing in the distance, that customer service would be impeccable! Well think again! People are still people even in paradise! We had a couple of encounters of "I'm just doing a job..." attitudes....in the airport (of course!) and in a couple of shops, not bad, but not happy either.

What I forgot was that it was "I" who was in the lap of luxury and relaxing while "others" were still in their work mode! For the most part, people treated us very well, with beautiful smiles, and pleasant remarks, and genuine happy attitudes. I loved the limo driver who told us... "Don't be mad at me because you are just visiting and I get to live here every day in paradise!"

Even the sales people (those selling handmade jewelry or personal services like hair braiding) working along the beach each day, had terrific "intro lines"....such as...."Good morning beautiful lady! Let me adorn you with some of my hand made Island jewelry "or "Hello pretty lady, you look gorgeous today! How may I be of service to you?"or "Please let me know what I may do for you...it is my pleasure to serve you."

WOW! I knew flattery works, but it was more than just the words they said, albeit very good words; it was more about "how they said it and their happy personalities, and the genuineness behind the words" that really appealed to me. After all it was their only means of making a living...their "livelihood The work was harder than they let on as most of the items were handmade so "somebody" was making them...and the services were done on the spot. ". So why were they still so happy?

I was talking to one of our wonderful waiters, Mathew, while we were eating dinner one night, and I asked him "You have such a beautiful personality and a very special way with taking care of us ...who taught you to be so kind and thoughtful?" He smiled and said, "Nobody, I just love what I do and am always looking for new ways to serve." I asked the Manager in charge about him, and she smiled and said "Yes, everyone says the same thing about Mathew. He's is wonderful." You know if it weren't for Immigration, I would have brought that young man home with me to show how real customer service is supposed to be!!!! What a breath of "fresh air"!

That got me to thinking about how we speak to each other and to "our customers" on a daily basis. I think we sometimes forget that it IS our "livelihood" in the housing industry and how we communicate to our customers and to each other really does make a difference between "success and failure".

Maybe we need to adopt some of that Caribbean style attitude when it comes to working with our own customers. Andin the words of the Island's most infamous native son, Bob Marly,  "Open your eyes, look within. Are you satisfied with the life you're living? Ya mon, no problem!"

Done Reading

"It's better to start late on the right path, than to spend a lifetime on the wrong one."

   Interestingly enough these words have become so clear in the past few years. Quitting a job that I had had for over 10 years with good pay, benefits, insurance, 401K, and stability was probably one of the most difficult decisions I have ever made. But I knew in my gut that it was "what I was supposed to do". The next chapter in my life had turned the page.

   Even as a small child, I have always felt that I was destined to do something special with my life; a mission, if you will, to help other people. As with all people, my life has not been smooth; in fact parts were downright "life threatening" at times. But with the support of a strong family, not only telling me, but showing me the "right things to do", I have had to correct my own personal "flight path" many times along the way.

   Mom always said that if you raise your children up the right way, disciplining them to work hard, respect others, get your education, be a good citizen, and have a humble heart, that when they do get "off on to the wrong path", they will return back to the right path again.

   I tell you this to remind you that it isn't so much that "life is too short"....it's that it takes so long for us to begin enjoying it! Making the decision to open my business in January of 2000 was the best thing I have ever done. I was able to balance both career and personal lives to gain the flexibility to "be there" for all who needed me. Thus, although I am busier than I have ever been with BOTH family and career, I have never been happier or more successful.

   My path is now very clear and defined. No longer am I searching for the "path that everyone else planned or wanted for me". I know that I am on the "right path" of my own choosing....my "mission" in life (as my husband always says) and that I am ready to help the people who need me.

   So I ask you.....what path are you on? Does it fulfill your destiny? Does it fulfill your dreams? Do you feel a sense of accomplishment, pride, and satisfaction? Maybe you like just complaining all the time to anyone who will listen about things only you can change. Maybe you feel like life has cheated you and now you are in a situation that's just not fair.

   So what are you going to do? Continue to complain and be filled with self pity or are you going to change your path? Are you going to get clear on what you want to do? Are you willing to do "what's right" to get on that "right path"?

   After years of doubt and turmoil within my own self, I decided to "get into the driver's seat" and "get out of the back seat" of life and do something about it!  So, how about you? You KNOW what you need to do...so like the Nike slogan.... "Just Do It"!

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  Many of you who know me know I was blessed to have my Mother still going strong at the beautiful age of 95, until last year. She passed away in her sleep, peacefully 2 days before Mother's Day last year. No tears as I remember her with her sweet smile, her incredible strength of character, spirit, and faith hiding behind those beautiful deep brown "Melvin eyes" shining so brightly. Oh, my Grandfather's name was Melvin (her Dad), and MY Dad always called Mom's eyes by that name, as she had those same deep, dark eyes he had.

 I posted this a couple of years ago after one of my numerous visits to see her in Indiana. I have had such great response to this article, thought I would run it again, in her honor, for this Mother's Day.

 Mom had always been my mentor and a woman "ahead of her time" having had a managerial career in the early 1950's when most women were still at home sewing, canning, and having babies. Did we get along well? Knowing me and my "spirit", you can only imagine the conflict....at times, it was a real challenge for both of us. But that apparently was what made me the woman I am today.

 "Miss Ruby" is the oldest of 9 siblings and was thrown into "management" at the ripe age of 7 when her mother became ill and she had to begin cooking and caring for the family. (Can you imagine your child today having that kind of responsibility?!) They lived on a tobacco farm in the south and the children were part of the workforce to tend the crops.

 She tells the story of how her father stood her on a wooden box in front of the kitchen counter and showed her how to make bread...ONE time....and then expected her to make bread everyday for the family from there on, which, of course, she did. Finally at 16 her mother passed away and she now had the full responsibility of being the "CEO" for the family....the Chief Example Officer... as her sisters and brothers were everything to her, and still are.

 Getting up before dawn, cooking breakfast, getting the other children ready and off to school, attending school herself, coming home to many physically, laborious chores of the farm work, then getting the family fed, bathed, and in bed, so that she could NOW do her own homework and prepare for the next day.

 I tell you this story because Mom has ALWAYS worked so hard with so much responsibility throughout her life beginning at such a young age. When she moved to Indiana and got married, she continued to be that strong leader and "trend setter" for our family, with many work ethic philosophies that had little meaning to me at the time, obviously because I was still a young child, but that now I can appreciate of how incredibly important they are in today's 21^st century world of business.

 I guess that is why I am such a "driven" individual as well trying hard to follow in her footsteps. Mom never shied away from her responsibilities no matter how tough they were. What was the "right thing to do" was ALWAYS the "right thing to do"! That's it.

 She would say to me, "Someone has to step up take charge and do these things, and it might as well be you. It is better to be in charge and have some say so as to what and where a business is going rather than to just follow along a path that you may not agree with".

 We talk about ownership mentality in running our properties and leading by example that has been a long term concept in our business. So let me ask you this... "What have you done lately to be that "CEO" for your organization?"

 Here are "Miss Ruby's" top 5 steps to help you get started with becoming that CEO...

  1. "Go to school anyway...you'll feel better when you get there!"

 Some days we just don't feel like getting out of bed, but we know we have to because others are depending on us. And she was right that even though I hated to get up and go, somehow I DID feel better once I got there being with others rather than sitting home alone. It was magic!

  2. "If you haven't got enough energy to mow the whole yard, at least mow the front!"

 Prioritize! Time management is critical in any business, but none more than ours! Get organized, clean desks, closets, shops, and offices. You'll find that being organized is a huge factor in time management plus you find stuff you lost!

  3. "You've got the same britches to get glad in!"

 Attitude is everything! Being frustrated and angry zaps all your energy and makes you feel like you are running through molasses. So get happy...you'll feel better...get more done....and others will be happy to be around you. But remember it is still YOUR choice!

  4. "You can lead me anywhere, but you can't drive me one inch!"

 Positive leadership and being a "good example" was her lifelong mantra and boy was she a "tough act to follow"...just ask any of her supervisors! Words spoken in anger or frustration or negative approaches to management techniques NEVER works for long. People are tired of being pushed around and unappreciated!

  5. "I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!"

 Don't forget to tell those around you how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate their sacrifices they make for the business daily. We ALL need to know we are appreciated, loved and make a difference in what we do.

 So remember .... We are not put on this earth for ourselves, but are placed here for each other. If you are always there for others, then in time of your need, someone will be there for you. Become a "CEO" today...your destiny is now.

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The days of landing that perfect job, working hard, getting those "just rewards", and then retiring in 30 or so years with the "gold watch", are long gone from our society today. Instead, statistically, most people will have up to 7 different jobs in their life times, many of which aren't even in the same industry!

Trying to find that "corporate match" is an ongoing challenge. Just about the time you feel you have found that comfort zone, ZAP! the company goes through dynamic changes, or gets sold, and people whom you have practically "lived with" are gone! NOW WHAT!?

Nothing is truer than in the multihousing industry. Literally change occurs daily, and in this business, only the strong survive .... or maybe it's something else. Actually it IS more than just "surviving" that constitutes a person's corporate worth and promotablilty.

Sometimes, however, we are our own worst enemy! We focus so much on the "here and now" that we fail to plan for the "tomorrow".  The successful professional doesn't let the "world control them", THEY control their own destiny.

They understand that there are three basic concepts to increasing their value to their organization, beginning with knowing their owners and investors goals and visions, and applying them to every aspect of the job.

"Top Down Management" keeps them focused on the "big picture" instead of just the minutia of the day's routine. Let's face it, when push comes to shove, the owner still calls the shots, and if we don't' have his or her best interest in every facet of the business, they will just replace us with someone who does!

FIRST: They don't necessarily want "yes men or women", but DO want someone who is looking at things from the owner's perspective. Learn as much as you can about your company's history, organizational charts, and its mission statement.  Anticipation of your owner's needs keeps you a step ahead of what is important to them utilizing the network of individuals within the "corporate culture".

SECOND: Understanding your particular management style and leadership effectiveness is also crucial to your career and successes. There are four basic styles of management:

• Autocratic - That Direct "Take Charge" Approach (Just do it this way!)
• Bureaucratic - The "Policy Rule Book" Approach (Using the company rule book as a weapon, not as a tool!)
• Democratic - Letting The "People Participate In The Decision Making Process" Approach (Not necessarily letting everyone vote on an issue, but giving them a sense of responsibility for the success / failure of the performance of the business)
• Idiosyncratic - "Attuned To The Individual Personalities" Approach (Using the employee's idiosyncrasies to develop that individual)

No matter which specific style or combination of styles are yours, remember that ultimately the goal of your leadership effectiveness is to be "results oriented" .... Make it happen!

THIRD: Finally, you must make a difference for your very existence in the company. Anytime you can save or make, time, effort, or money, for your company...you will always have a job! Performance records, global reputation, and a positive attitude of "doing whatever it takes to get the job done, right", will skyrocket your career to whatever heights you choose. 

Coach Vince Lombardi once said, "You're only as good as your last game. You have to start all over at each game proving your worth and talent."

And so it is in our business. All of the awards and educational degrees are only a record of your "past of success". What you do NOW and TOMORROW are the real tests of your career value to your organization.

Remember..."The Only Job Security You Have Is To Be More Talented Tomorrow Than You Are Today!"

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Jackie's Web Site Blog for March 2010

Word Count Including Title -

Lost Any Good Residents Lately?

Isn't it amazing how much time, money and effort we spend on marketing for our "new" prospective residents? When working with a client to create "fresh and innovative" marketing plans to help with their occupancy challenges, the focus in mainly on "finding NEW prospects", but not much emphasis is given to maintaining the current residents. It's sort of like making sure the front door is well-manned, while leaving the "back door" wide open for the current residents to just walk away without much question.

Years ago we jokingly used to say to those giving notice, "I'm sorry. We aren't accepting any notices today. You will just have to stay. Besides we don't want you to leave!" At least we made an honest attempt to keep them. Now we just accept the "We're moving to buy a home" reason without even trying to talk to the resident. Well, why should we? Haven't they already made their mind up to move? How can we possibly talk them out of it now?

As our world continues to speed up, and the competition continues to grow in leaps and bounds, the ONLY thing that makes your community stand out among all the competition, is the reputation you, your community, and your organization have, when it comes to serving and taking care of your customers. That relationship is very fragile and can be broken with only the slightest of misunderstandings.

If you are having trouble with your cash flow, even though the market is beginning to turn, you need to take a long hard look at how you are treating your customers, but more importantly, how you are treating your employees who are taking care of your customers. Remember in order to retain those residents....You must take care of your team....So they will take care of your residents!

Contact me about my new 2010 "Customers for Life" seminar and how we can create a great resident retention plan customized for your community!

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We reminisce about the "good old days" when we were so "young" and spirited" and "full of energy and passion" for just about everything! We had the drive of the United States Marine Corp on a death defying mission! Ah yes, those were our "bullet proof days" that brought us such satisfaction, pride, and hope.

But then the solemn realization of what is REALLY going on in our lives begins to appear. We are stressed to the limit with issues at work with coworkers, customers, and clients who are as stressed out as we are! Stressed in our home lives where our families are "vibrating" because of their stress of their word loads and "over scheduling" every minute of their waking day crammed with school work, soccer, cheerleading, baseball, gymnastics, scouts, karate, piano lessons, etc. Sometimes the best we can do is just get another "triple Espresso shot Grande Latte" , slide through some "take out place" for dinner, and pray for enough energy to "just get through the day" so you can make it home with some shred of sanity left so you can get up the next day and do it all over again! Sound familiar?

So what happened? All the best intentions seem to fade away when the pressures of everyday life begin to pick up. There is a great quote I have always had on my wall in every office I worked in..." It's not the desire to succeed that assures success; it's the discipline to prepare yourself for it." That has been my mantra in life.

People ask me all the time how I seem to get so much done and still manage to have a smile on my face and a positive attitude. Easy! No one really knows how I am except my wonderful husband who, after 30 years of marriage, I am going to have to kill because he knows too much! He keeps me grounded. Whenever I am "on the edge of the cliff with my hair on fire ready to jump from the stress", he calmly reminds me of my mission in life: "You will always have a job, Jackie, because your people need you and you know you can't let them down."

And he is right. After all, everything I do is to help others to be successful, including my children and my grandchildren. It is a "self imposed burden" that I deeply cherish and by which I strive to be a better CEO (Chief Example Office) for them. Therefore I must be organized, and get things done for them. And that is my passion...my driving force...my discipline.

I have always believed that my success depends on the success of others. If I can help others to become more successful by giving them good "real life solutions" to their challenges and sharing my experiences of "life and career" through my seminars, encouragement on a telephone conversation during my executive coaching sessions, or reigniting their own "passion for performance" in a one- on-one conversation at a trade event, THAT ladies and gentlemen is what gives me my high energy and drive to be my best every day. Not just at the beginning of the year, as a New Year's resolution, or worse waiting until something REALLY BAD happens, but every day.

Because you see my "passion for performance" is igniting YOUR passion and helping you to be the person whom you will always look back and say, "Yes, these ARE the good old days!"

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