Strategy #1: Mindset

In building your business, you have to work as much on your mind as, you do your actions. Books like Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill contain truths that stand up over time. Here’s one of his quotes: “All the breaks you need in life wait within your imagination; imagination is the workshop of your mind, capable of turning mind energy into accomplishment and wealth.”

The new psychology of mindset tells us that if you have a fixed mindset, you believe your talents and abilities are set in stone–either you have them or you don’t. You must prove yourself over and over, trying to look smart and talented at all costs. This is the path of stagnation. If you have a growth mindset, however, you know talents can be developed and great abilities are built over time. This is the path of opportunity–and success.

Strategy #2: Keep in touch with people who express interest in your services/products

Stay in touch regularly with your potential clients by giving them something of value. An example: Offer them an email newsletter-–send it at least twice a month.

Give small gifts. I’ve recognized in the past months the fear level of many folks I’m in touch with has risen to an amazing crescendo. I also know  you cannot feel gratitude and fear at the same time. So, I offer a gift. Each of you who send your postal address to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it receive a gratitude stone and a written meditation from me. Responses are great!
For a small, creative investment, I am able to keep in touch in a meaningful way.

Strategy #3: Form Joint Ventures

When you partner with someone who has a client list that could benefit from your services, you can expand your own list quickly. Here’s an example of the joint ventures I’ve participated in. My self employment system is of interest to many folks who are on the verge of retiring after a long career. They are still vibrant and want to share their gifts with the world in a way that continues to bring in money, while allowing them the lifestyle they desire.

I have partnered with a financial planner whom I admired and we’ve promoted each of our services to our lists. She often has clients who want more from her than just financial advice –they want to get answers to issues like “what’s my real purpose?” and “what would give me fulfillment once I retire?” She doesn’t feel equipped (nor does she want to take the time for these conversations) and I don’t have the training or interest to provide financial advice.

We both expand the number of people we can reach by working together. We have given seminars, where I do a section on purpose, passion and self employment after retirement and she does a section on the top financial decisions at retirement.
Think of 1 or 2 folks you could partner with to create this kind of situation!

I’d love for you to take one idea from this article today and make it a specific action step you will take, with a vision for what it will look like when you’ve accomplished it and a deadline for when you will do it. Email me your commitment ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )–I’d love to see them AND it gives you great power to put your word into writing.

ANN RONAN, PhD is Founder of Authentic Life Institute, a vibrant online community of lifelong learners. 909-717-1113 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it • www.AuthenticLifeInstitute.com
 ©2009 Ann Ronan, PhD