Coach Vicki Zanini

Small Changes Inspire Sweet Victories

2010-09-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Visit my latest blog post at Better Youniversity

You Get To Decide Where To Go

2010-06-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

View my blog post on the Compass Personal Development Network.

Too Many Roles to Play

2010-06-18T20:51:00.001-07:00

This week I've been looking at the many roles I play in life. I'm a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a business owner, a Trekkie (and proud of it), and many others as well. That's a lot of hats to wear and I was trying to wear them all at once. Thankfully, I've stopped trying to play all of these roles, as if I ever could.

These days I'm focused on doing what I can do and playing only one role. Being me, and it's a pretty big role. I'm the CEO of my life and I manage several departments, some days better than others but never by myself. I manage the home department, with the help of my family team, and my career department is running quite smoothly with the help of some pretty amazing team leaders and friends. It's always tempting to neglect my self-care department but I've learned that this is the most important one of all. If this department isn't running smoothly the others suffer. There are other departments too, and each one is important to my overall sense of balance and peace.

There was a time in my life when I felt like I was constantly rushing to catch up with life. As soon as the alarm went off in the morning I'd begin to feel overwhelmed as my mind rushed ahead to try to figure out what needed to be done first. Years ago someone asked me how I defined success and I said that I would feel successful when I woke up every morning with enthusiasm and joy. I've been successful for many years now and am grateful I only have one hat to wear, and it fits me perfectly.

Procrastination Working Overtime

2010-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have a big project I've been putting off for three years. It sits there on the corner of my desk 24 hours a day 7 days a week and literally drains me, even when I think I'm ignoring it. It's to the point where I am embarrassed to bring it up with my family or my coach because I don't want to watch their eyes roll. Well, they are more gracious than that, they don't actually roll their eyes. At least I don’t think they do. But I'm rolling mine. I've tried motivation, inspiration and threats. Nothing seems to be working. So today I'm just going to tell the truth and see if that helps. The truth is I don't know if or when I will complete it and I'm not going to pretend otherwise. So there it sits, on the corner of my desk, laughing at me. Now I am free to laugh too!

My Children and I are Growing Up

2010-06-11T12:44:00.000-07:00

I remember feeling a strong sense of certainty and contentment when my children were born. I was a mother and I had a purpose and a place to focus my heart. Someone told me at the time that being a mother was like having a little shadow that would follow me everywhere all the time. Well, that isn't exactly the way I remember it. I did most of the following, protecting my young like a mother goose, and although I didn't feel shadowed by my children, I knew they were paying attention to what I did even when they pretended not to hear me.

When I think back to my own childhood, many of my most vivid memories are around what my parents did rather than what they said. I remember my father driving an extra 15 miles on a cold night to return $20 that was overpaid to him by an order taker in a drive-through window. I remember my mother driving to the store in the middle of a blizzard to prepare for my birthday party one year, despite the fact that she was eight months pregnant.

I have other memories but these two were on my mind today as I watched both of my children go off to work this morning. My son will be returning to college in the fall and my daughter will graduate from high school next year. For now I continue to enjoy my front-row view into my children's lives but I know this will change soon. Twenty years from now when they look back on their own childhood, I can only hope that they will have memories as rich as mine. My parents left me a legacy of love, honesty and compassion. I wonder what my children will remember.

You Get To Decide Where To Go

2010-06-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

“You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.
You’re on your own.
And you know what you know.
You are the guy who’ll decide where to go.”
~Dr. Seuss

Where do you want to go? That is a very simple question that requires some big thinking! Where do you want to go? Not, where should you go? Or where could you go? You could spend a lifetime pondering these questions. The possibilities are endless. At some point you must make a choice and take that first step. Where will you go? Who will you become along the way? Your journey has begun and you are on your way. Somewhere among the sacred and the silliness you will get where you are going. Enjoy the magic.

It's Summer Time!

2010-06-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that June is here! I LOVE summer. Of course I always get excited about the new season. It provides the variety and fresh perspective I need to be my best. I love the four seasons and couldn't imagine life without them.

When I look around me I see the fresh cut Roses on the table next to me. I smell the strong scent of Honeysuckle drifting through the window. These are all part of a support system I've designed to nourish and strengthen me.

What can you do today to strengthen your support system? Think about it and then follow-up!

Plan Your Week and then Work Your Plan

2010-05-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

“It is not good enough for things to be planned - they still have to be done; for the intention to become a reality, energy has to be launched into operation.” - Walt Kelly

Take a few minutes to plan the week ahead. Write down your goals for the week. You are on a journey and only you can determine your destination. Where do you want to be on Friday? Commit to doing just a few small tasks or take on something bigger, it's up to you. The important thing is to practice setting your goals and then doing what you need to accomplish them. Set your goals for the week: Ready, set, go!

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Are you feeling stuck and unfocused? Have your goals and dreams been hijacked by your hectic life? Manage your time and energy and create the life you want.

Join a FREE Lunch N Learn Tomorrow, May 18th at 12 noon Mountain Time/2:00 PM Eastern Time and learn how to Take Back Your Life. Contact vicki@sweetvictories.com to register and receive bridge line number and code.

Get off the Bench and Play Full Out

2010-05-14T17:08:00.000-07:00

We've come to the end of another week. Did you put it to good use? What were your challenges and what were your successes? Did you move closer to your goals? Did you get the results you said you wanted? Take a deep breath and check in with yourself. How do you feel about the way you invested your time and energy this week?

If you did not end your week feeling like a winner, you may have set yourself up to lose. Follow-up Friday is the day we review our week for what worked and what didn't. What you accomplished, and what you didn't. Some weeks are better than others but every week we discover something new about ourselves. Did you play full out this week or did you sit the bench? How do you play full out? By having something to play for. Something at stake. Something meaningful to you. A good place to start is with a goal in mind. Goals are fickle and they need lots of attention in order to sprout and become something beautiful. How much thought do you put into planning your week? Do you blindly jump into Monday morning and hope for the best? If so, then congratulations because you got the results you wanted this week, which is to say you were willing to settle for anything so anything is an accomplishment. Truly, I say this with the upmost respect because I have lived many weeks this way. You simply can't fail but are you truly satisfied? Is it time to make a change?

"For things to change you've got to change. Otherwise, nothing much will change." -Jim Rohn.

In the book, The Power of Focus, co-authored by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Les Hewitt, there are six reasons listed for procrastinating:

1. You're bored.
2. You are overwhelmed with work.
3. Your confidence has slipped.
4. You have a low self-worth.
5. You are doing work you don't really enjoy.
6. You are easily distracted, or just downright lazy!

Does any of this sound familiar? Whatever your reason for sitting the bench, let's get you up and moving. Focus this week on what's in your way. What tasks, projects, conversations, chores, etc, are you putting off? How would you feel if they were all handled? What do you need to do to make that happen? Ask for help? Delegate? Roll up your sleeves and apply some elbow grease?

What would happen next week if you made the choice to play full out? Would you experience more passion, joy, peace? Are you willing to find out? If so, you are invited to get off the bench and into the game this week, and be sure to reach out and let me know how your game is going!

Time to Hatch Out of That Shell!

2010-05-10T20:56:00.000-07:00

"It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg. We are like eggs at present. And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg. We must be hatched or go bad." - C. S. Lewis

What would "the best week ever" look like? Hmmmm. Ponder that and keep the magic alive.

Dream Big, Play Big!

2010-05-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

"Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born." Dr. Dale E. Turner.

Where will this week take you? Dream big, play full out and enjoy the magic!

Put Meaning and Passion into Your Week

2010-04-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

“The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.”
-Mitch Albom

You have a new week ahead of you! What will you do with it? Whatever you choose to do, do with it meaning and passion and enjoy the magic!

Playing IS Winning

2010-04-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

You have everything you need to create what you want to do, be and have in your life. Do you believe this? I do. You have the power within you to live your best life right now by being exactly who you are today. The good news is you do not have to change. The challenge is that you must believe in yourself and your ability to create what you want in your life with passion and purpose. This is what I call a sweet victory.

At the beginning of the week we each set out to practice living our best life at work and at home by writing down our goals and intentions, charting a course, and stepping out in faith. How did it go? Did you take the time to chart your course for the week and did you use your map to keep you on track? Did you follow-through? What still needs to be done? Who still needs to be called? What promises still need to be kept?

Each week you get to go out in the world and practice living your best life. Sometimes you'll win and sometimes you won't but you will learn so much about yourself just by your willingness to show up and play.

If you aren't satisfied with your results, I invite you to join the Sweet Victories group at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz. Once you sign up I will send you the link to our online group. It's free, interactive and fun. You'll get the support and inspiration to keep playing your best life all week. In the meantime, follow-up today and enjoy your sweet victories.

Come Monday morning you will have an opportunity to begin a new week, and I invite you to show up and play full out. For now, follow-up and celebrate your sweet victories.

Make the Most of Magical Mondays

2010-04-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

"All successful people men and women are big dreamers. They imagine what their future could be, ideal in every respect, and then they work every day toward their distant vision, that goal or purpose." - Brian Tracy

As you kick off a new week, know where you want to go. Take some time to look ahead and chart your course. Make the most of this Magical Monday!

Decide you can do it and don't shut down!

2010-04-16T18:51:00.000-07:00

It's Follow-up Friday. Did you do what you set out to do? Did you keep your word? What's left to complete? Who do you need to call? Make a list of the top ten things that will need your attention on Monday and enjoy the weekend!

Take the Compass Red Carpet Ready Challenge!
Getting in shape requires more than diet and exercise. Create the mindset, commitment and attitude you need to succeed. Learn the keys to success and how to make a commitment to do the work using strategies and environments that will support your progress. Don't wait. Go to www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz and get started today.

What Do You Want?

2010-04-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

What do you want out of life? That is a big question, isn't it? Most people feel overwhelmed by it, and it can takes years to figure out. The reason this question is so challenging is that what we want out of life changes through the years, and sometimes from season to season or month to month. I'm going to give you a challenge today: Do not go another day without beginning the process of identifying your core values, because once you do this, what you really want will begin to become clear. Get started now by accessing the first five days of Step Into Balance at http://www.mylifecompass.com/articles/18 . Step Into Balance is one of many coaching programs offered by Compass. For membership information or to connect with me on the Personal Development Network visit www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz. You have everything you need right now to be, do or have anything you want. Believe it!

So Much To Do!

2010-04-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see." -John Burroughs

Reminding you to make some magic today!

Take The Compass Challenge
The Compass Challenge is a simple 12-week life coaching program designed to help you achieve success. Access daily online audio coaching with leading authors and experts and keep track of your progress on the Compass Personal Development Network (PDN). First 5 Days FREE. For details visit: www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz

A New Season, A New Challenge

2010-04-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Today is a day of endings and of new beginnings. At the beginning of this year we began a three-month journey with the intent to focus on our goals and achieve them together. Season one has come to an end but season two is just beginning! I've had the privilege of working with many of you personally in our groups or one-on-one coaching sessions, and I am celebrating with you today as you count up your sweet victories. There have been some fumbles and losses along the way, and there will be more in the future. This is part of playing a meaningful game. If you did not encounter challenges this season, you may not be playing big enough.

Next week begins a new season and a new game, and I want to personally invite you to begin your new season by taking the Compass Challenge.

The Compass Challenge is a simple 12-week life coaching program designed to help you achieve success. Access daily online audio coaching with leading authors and experts and keep track of your progress on the Compass Personal Development Network (PDN). First 5 Days FREE. Monthly membership for a little as $19.00 a month.

There are five challenge to choose from:

Get in Shape For Summer. Take the Red Carpet Ready Challenge With Celebrity Trainer, Val Waters

Get Balance Back In Your Life. Take the Remodel Your Reality Challenge With Compass Founder, Kim Fulcher

Align Your Priorities With God’s Plan. Take the Good News Challenge With Author and Speaker, Dr. Thelma Wells

Improve Your Relationship with Your Teen. Take the Parent as Coach Challenge With Author and Coach, Diana Sterling

Are you ready to take the Compass Challenge? Sign up at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz today and lets win this season together.

Live Today and Enjoy the Magic

2010-03-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

"Stop acting as if life is a rehearsal. Live this day as if it were your last. The past is over and gone. The future is not guaranteed." -Wayne Dyer

You only get once chance to do what you can do today. Don't let it slip by.

Follow-up in Action

2010-03-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

"Your habitual actions create your reality. This concept is best illustrated with the widely accepted notion of cause and effect. Every action you take (or fail to take) creates a corresponding results. If you're unhappy with the results in your life, the most effective way to change them is to adjust the action you're taking." -Kim Fulcher "Remodel Your Reality"

Are you happy with the results you've created this week? What about the results you'll create next week if you continue on your current path? It's up to you to make the adjustments but there's plenty of help. Reach out this week and get the support you'll need to reach your goals.

LIVE WEBINAR WITH KIM FULCHER! FREE!!!!!!
Saturday, March 20th – 1pm Pacific (2:00 pm Mountain)
You can Register here: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/136767251

Win a free copy of Kim Fulcher's book, "Remodel Your Reality" by registering you and two guests for tomorrow's webinar. Contact me at vicki@sweetvictories.com after you've registered your group and I'll contact you by e-mail to get your shipping address! Let's win this season together!

Remember Your Dream

2010-03-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

"So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable." -Christopher Reeve

Acting on behalf of your dream takes courage, practice and a supportive enviornment. What are you currently doing to nourish your dream? Take some time this week to remember your dream, and enjoy the magic.

We are at the end of the season....are you still in the game?

2010-03-12T13:10:00.000-08:00

Today I want to take a minute to update you on my workout routine. I am happy to report that six weeks into my routine I am still on track to reaching my wellness goals. I am working out 4 to 5 times every week and am improving the quality of my diet. This is the sweet victory I am going for this season. As we approach the end of the season, I am feeling energized and happy with my results, and perhaps a little sore!

This season ends on March 31st. After 90 days of working toward your goal, how do you feel? Are you moving forward? Did you get side-tracked? Where ever you are on your path today, you can make the choice to move forward. Are your goals around money? Relationship? Health and wellness? Life balance? Do you long for a deeper connection with yourself? Whatever area you are working on, it is important to create supportive environments to keep you focused. Compass is one environment that supports me in reaching my goals. I'm leaving you today with a "sample" of the powerful coaching that is available at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz. Compass offers FREE and FEE services so everyone can play.

If you've gotten lost on your path this season, here is a MAP to help you get back on track:
http://www.mylifecompass.com/articles/11

Don't forget to create your free profile at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvicki and let me know what you are working on.

Let's celebrate your sweet victories together!

Coach Vicki Z

Stop Juggling and Enjoy the Magic

2010-03-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

How many balls do you juggle? How long has it been since you took a moment to look at your life? Are you living the life you imagined?

Juggling work, home, family, friends, exercise, money and trying to carve out a little time for you and some fun along the way can be exhausting and overwhelming.

Do you long for a moment just to take a breath and evaluate what you really want?

The Compass On -Track Life Assessment is a free short 7 question MPC format quiz designed to help you discover which areas of your life might have become a 'circus act' and provide you with the resources and support your need to get you life back 'on track' again.

We invite you to take this brief assessment and to find out where you are and how Compass can help you get where you want to be.

Get Into Action

2010-03-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

Get Into Action
If you’re waiting for your dreams to come to you – or for someone else to hand you the opportunity you’ve been waiting for – then you’d better get comfortable, because you’re going to be here a while. Keeping the dream alive with plans and visioning? That’s a great first step – but don’t stop there. You can’t wait for change to happen, and it’s not enough to just think, plan and visualize – if you want your dreams to come true, you have to take action! Get Into Action is all about: Understanding the real truth around procrastination (it’s not what you think!) and finding the inspiration you need to put your dreams into motion. Changing your attitudes, perspectives and environments so that they create momentum rather than just maintaining the status quo. Realizing how others expectations – and your own – keep you from taking action on your dreams.

It's follow-up Friday so get into action and celebrate your sweet victories.

Get Into Action is one of five coaching programs offered at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz this month.

Act From the Heart

2010-03-01T08:05:00.000-08:00

In her book, The Courage Code, Megan Raphael writes, “The opposite of courage is not fear, it is inaction.” So where is a lack of courage showing up as inaction in your life? What would it look like if you acted from your heart every single day, on every single matter? Wouldn't that be a sweet victory?

Act From The Heart is one of five coaching programs being offered by Compass this month and will show you how to: Unmask the myth that courage is limited to heroic acts of valor or life-long dedication to perfect service, and recognize that the everyday and imperfect acts of the heart and soul are sometimes the most courageous of the all. Show real courage by focusing on abundance, collaboration and cooperation, rather than competition, protectionism or scarcity. Change the world and celebrate life by acting from your heart in everything you do.

To find out about this or other Compass programs, visit www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz.

Hospitality Means...

2010-02-26T10:41:00.000-08:00

"Hospitality means primarily the creation of free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend. Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer them space where change can take them. " -Henri Nouwen

I ran across this quote in a coffee shop last week and it quickly permeated my heart and called me to take a renewed look at the world around me. After a few days of reflection I realized that I DO see the world as a hospitable place, and that is a sweet victory. I remember a time when I focused only on the obstacles that were in my path, and all the reasons why I couldn't accomplish my goals.

As you work your follow-up plan today I invite you to pause and look around you. Where is hospitality showing up in your life? Who is reaching out to connect and support you? You may be surprised to find that you have more support than you need to accomplish your goals but you just haven't taken time to notice. Take time to notice the hospitality that life has to offer and celebrate your sweet victories.

Bring Your Music to Life

2010-02-22T08:42:00.000-08:00

“A few can touch the magic string, and noisy fame is proud to win them: Alas for those that never sing, but die with all their music in them!” -Oliver Wendell Holmes

How will you bring your music to life this week?

Life is a Game Worth Playing

2010-02-19T15:52:00.000-08:00

You’ve just completed another week of your life, congratulations! Review your week for any standout moments. What are you particularly happy or proud of? Where did you succeed? What did you celebrate? I call these sweet victories and they make life worthwhile.

Sweet Victories don’t have to be big and expensive, and they are often supported by our core values. An example of a sweet victory might be witnessing a child’s first step, getting that coveted promotion at work or finally getting that bedroom closet cleaned out. They are personal and we each must define them for ourselves.

What challenges or obstacles did you face this week? Make no mistake, these are part of pursing any worthwhile endeavor and you get to decide whether or not to allow them to stop you. If you persevered through another obstacle then you have another sweet victory to celebrate.

We are into season one of the Sweet Victories Game, which means you have just over six weeks to cross the finish line. I’ve heard from many players this season and am inspired by what you are working on. Whether you are working on strengthening your personal relationships or improving your performance at work, you are working towards something important to you and I want to help you win. I invite you to e-mail me and let me know what you are working on. Or connect with me on the Compass Personal Development Network at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz and let’s connect, empower and inspire each other. Life is a team sport and you aren’t meant to play alone – and you don’t have to!

Would you like some personal coaching to play your game better? I am currently looking for two individuals who would like to coach with me for the next six weeks at a big discount. For six weeks I will be your personal coach as you turn a current challenge or goal into a winnable game worth playing. I will spend 30 to 45 minutes on the phone with you each week and you will practice, practice, practice playing your big game. The total cost to you is $79.00 and a commitment to play full out. I have two spots available and you can claim yours by e-mailing me at vicki@sweetvictories.com.

Wishing You Sweet Victories,
Coach Vicki Z

Put Your Dreams on the Starting Line

2010-02-15T10:18:00.000-08:00

"There are people who put their dreams in a little box and say, "Yes, I've got dreams, of course I've got dreams." Then they put the box away and bring it out once in awhile to look in it, and yep, they're still there. These are great dreams, but they never even get out of the box. It takes an uncommon amount of guts to put your dreams on the line, to hold them up and say, "How good or how bad am I?" That's where courage comes in."
— Erma Bombeck

Don't put your dreams in a box....put them on the starting line and start playing.

Follow-up and Be Amazed

2010-02-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

Another week marches by. Was it just another week? Are you satisfied with how you spent your time and energy?

Time is finite but our choices about how to spend it are infinite. Are you satisfied with your choices?

I’m celebrating a personal sweet victory this week. I spent 5 hours exercising this week. I am a bit sore but very satisfied.

Interestingly, one week ago I believed I was too busy to spend 2 ½ hours a week exercising. Honoring my commitment to exercise is a victory but what makes it sweet for me is that I dispelled a limiting belief by stepping beyond what I thought was possible.

This victory required me to accept support from others while staying connected to my own purpose. How satisfied are you with how you spent your week? Would you like some support or do you have your own sweet victory to share? Join the Compass Personal Development Network at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz and then send me a friend request.

The Compass Personal Development Network is a free social network with a purpose – to help you step into your greatness. I hope to see some new faces on my friends list this week. Be sure and add your goals to my Victory Board by e-mailing me at vicki@sweetvictories.com or connecting with me at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz. Let me know what you are up to so I can support you. One thing I know to be true is that you have the power to amaze yourself but you’ll never know if you don’t try.
It’s Follow-up Friday so follow-up and be amazed.

Do What You Can Do This Week and Enjoy The Magic

2010-02-08T12:27:00.000-08:00

"The question for each man to settle is not what he would do if he had means, time, influence and educational advantages; the question is what he will do with the things he has. The moment a young man ceases to dream or to bemoan his lack of opportunities and resolutely looks his conditions in the face, and resolves to change them, he lays the corner-stone of a solid and honorable success." Hamilton Wright Mabie

So often we become overwhelmed by all there is to do. Remember to simply do what you can do today and you'll be on your way to another sweet victory.

It Takes Courage and Support to Stretch Beyond Our Comfort Zone

2010-02-05T13:59:00.000-08:00

There is a truth I have experienced so many times in my life that I don’t doubt it: When we set a powerful intention for our life, the Universe responds. Suddenly opportunities open up, people come into our life and we start moving towards our goal, or we don’t. For many reasons, we don’t always participate in this beautifully collaborate process. There are many reasons why we don’t but I am going to focus on one reason today, and that is that we do not want to ask for help.
I’ve spent the past year working on my wellness goals…by myself. As a life coach I know the power of support but when it came to my own wellness goals, I thought I could do it in my spare time when it was convenient.
After reviewing my wellness goals for this season I realized that they were designed with my comfort and convenience in mind. I also realized that I was making no investment or personal sacrifice in order to accomplish these goals. Was I really committed? And why?
As I often ask my coaching clients to do, I took an inventory of the people in my life who could support me, and I made arrangements to work with a fitness coach. When I asked her if she could support me, she asked me one question, “Are you serious about getting fit or are you just going through the motions?” I was committed, and I realized that this person was willing to invest a great deal of her own time and energy into my success, and although it was one of the most difficult workouts I’ve had in many years, she was at my side as I went from “I can’t do this” to “I can do this”, to “I did it!”.
As you review your goals for the season, ask yourself if this is what you really want. If you are just going through the motions, it is time to make a change. What is it you are truly willing to invest in. What are you willing to make a sacrifice for? What I have found is that it is often the goal that is most meaningful to us that we hesitate to share with the world. When you step up and courageously declare what it is that you really want to achieve, the Universe will respond. Pay attention to who is showing up in your life or who has been there all along. Join in the collaborative creative process of achieving your goals by allowing others to support you.
Remember, life is a team sport. Send an e-mail to vicki@sweetvictories.com and share your goals, EVEN if you aren’t sure you have the courage to act on them. I’ll post it to my Victory Board. I won't tell anyone it's your goal but you and I will know, and so will the Universe.

Delicious Ambiguity

2010-02-01T11:08:00.000-08:00

"I always wanted a happy ending... Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious ambiguity." -Gilda Radner

We are at the beginning of another glorious week - I wonder what will happen? :)

Stretch Yourself

2010-01-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

It’s a snowy and cold day here in Southern Colorado, a beautiful sight and the perfect setting for following up on to-do’s and projects. This month I’ve been making friends with new technology to help me run my business; a new computer, a new telephone,new software and a pretty big learning curve. Honestly, it would be easier to continue doing things the way I have for years but I know that the time I’m investing in designing new structures will outweigh any temporary inconvenience. Designing new systems, creating new habits and learning new skills are often disruptive. We often say no to the things we really want in life BECAUSE they are disruptive.

We are well into our first season of 2010, which ends on March 31st. Did you set your goals for this season? Did you e-mail me so that I can include them on my Victory Board? This month I’ve been stretching myself, and I’d like to challenge you to do the same. Is there a goal you’ve been ignoring? You know the one I mean, the goal that lurks in the corner of your awareness and causes your heart to speed up. The goal you’d really like to go after…if only. The goal that will cause you to stretch, and may even feel disruptive. I challenge you to put THAT goal on the Victory Board this month, even if you don’t believe you can accomplish it. Email me at Vicki@sweetvictories.com – no one will know it’s your goal unless YOU tell them. And remember to ask for support – no one said you had to do life alone. In fact, you aren’t meant to. Support is just one click away at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz.
Now go follow-up with your to-do’s and keep celebrating your sweet victories.

Coach Vicki Z
www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz
www.sweetvictories.com

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What’s happening at Compass this month:

Take a Break and
Change Your Life
We know you have limited time. (We do too!) We’ve designed our monthly product, the Compass Monthly Action Plan (MAP™) to help you take small steps each day to improve your life. As a member of Compass, you get access to our library of MAPs so you can choose which area you'd like to focus on each month. You can make a big difference in just a few minutes a day – five days a week!

Current MAPs for January - there are five to choose from:

Life Balance – Step into Balance:
Don't let the weight of someone else's priorities spin your life out of balance. Take back control of your life and Step Into Balance today.

Health & Wellness – Make It Happen
This month’s MAP program is all about intentionally crafting and nurturing the life you want to live instead of leaving things to chance.

Relationships - Courageous Conversations
What’s stopping you from having the difficult, sensitive or potentially confrontational conversations you need to have?

Money and Career – Discover Your Dream
Choose your own greatness over fear and break through the things that are holding you back.

Spirit – Find Your Courage
Listening for what matters is one way to nurture, honor and respect everyone in those relationship on a deep level.

Find out more about Compass

Six Powerful Habits for 2010

2010-01-25T07:22:00.000-08:00

The beginning of the year is a time when many of us are examining our habits, the "good" and the "bad". Here are some habits to consider as you plan your winning season. The following is a list of six habits taken from Kim Fulcher's book, "Remodel Your Reality":

The 3 Habits of Thought:
The Habit of Gratitude – You appreciate your blessings instead of focusing on what you don’t have.
The Habit of Possibility – When a problem occurs, you see opportunity instead of catastrophe.
The Habit of Acceptance – You invest your energy in correcting problems instead of wallowing in anger or regret.
The 3 Habits of Action:
The Habit of Self Care – You do what you need to do to take care of yourself.
The Habit of Self-Connection – You take the time to really know yourself.
The Habit of Play – You take regularly time out to have fun.

The Victory Board

2010-01-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of the month did you take time to identify what you wanted to accomplish this season and how you will spend your time and energy? Are you moving in that direction? We are at the end of another week. Are you feeling energized and fulfilled by how you invested your time this week or do you feel drained and used up? At the beginning of January I invited you to send me an e-mail with your goals for the season. If you did this then you know that I have added your goal to my Victory Board and you are my players this season. You are the driving force behind The Sweet Victories Project. It’s not too late to make your contribution to my Victory Board. The season ends on March 31st and at that time I will be posting a picture of my board at www.SweetVictories.com, and I would love to include your goals and aspirations. Email me today at vicki@sweetvictories.com and let me know what you are up to this season. Are you working on adapting healthier habits to improve your health? Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to improve a relationship? Perhaps you want to finally get your closets organized. Do you need to improve your performance at work or school? I invite you to play along with me this season. You will remain anonymous and only your goal will be listed on my board. Life is a team sport so let’s win this season together.

Keep Doing What You Can

2010-01-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

"I have found in life that if you want a miracle you first need to do whatever it is you can do - if that's to plant, then plant; if it is to read, then read; if it is to change, then change; if it is to study, then study; if it is to work, then work; whatever you have to do. And then you will be well on your way of doing the labor that works miracles." -Jim Rohn.

A simple reminder to keep doing what you can do every day. You are growing miracles.

One Small Change

2010-01-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

It’s easy to overpromise our time and energy when we don’t’ take the time to prioritize our commitments. We also need to remember that we need to be at the top of that list. In reviewing this week’s schedule do you see yourself reflected in the choices you’ve made about what to do with your time? Are you satisfied with your choices or frustrated?

Go for the sweet victory: Do you believe you have a choice about how to spend your time? If you could, would you make a change? Your schedule is a contract you make with yourself about what to do with your life. If you are constantly feeling overwhelmed by your schedule, it may be time to make a change. You could be one small change away from winning a sweet victory today. Now follow-up and let’s win the season.

Get Ready, Set, Go!

2010-01-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

"We are all inventors, each sailing out on a voyage of discovery, guided each by a private chart, of which there is no duplicate. The world is all gates, all opportunities." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Magic is not something to tuck away in our trunk of childhood memories, and it isn’t as easy as waving a wand in the air and making things easily appear out of nowhere. What I call “the magic” is the inner power that lies within each of us to craft the life we know is possible. It takes work but it is worth every bead of sweat, every tear, and every victory! What are you creating with your life? What do you want to create? What do you dare to create? We are into a new season and you have the next three months to create something spectacular. Send me an e-mail at Vicki@sweetvictories.com and share what you are creating. Now, get ready, set, go!

Welcome to 2010 - and a new season!

2010-01-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

I hope the first post-holiday Follow-up Friday finds you well rested and eager for the New Year. Though I must confess, that does not describe my state of mind. My body is still recovering from all of the Christmas treats. Looking back it may have been better to just eat a bag of sugar. Needless to say, I’m moving a little slow this week.

My big wins this week: Working out every day while listening to an audio class; catching up on messages left for me over Christmas break; completing a big project that has left me feeling a bit weary but extremely satisfied; and there are others as well. There are also some areas where I failed to reach my mark. I wouldn’t call them losses though; I’m very happy with this week’s results. I had planned to take down the Christmas decorations but they are still up and I have grown tired of looking at them. I’ll be calling on my home team to pitch in this weekend. As for this evening, I am going to celebrate my wins with a little R&R. If you too are coming down from your Christmas high, enjoy the ride.

We are at the beginning of a new season. What do you want to accomplish in the next 90 days? Pick at least one thing you are WILLING to work on and let’s get it done this season. E-mail me at vicki@sweetvictories.com and let me know what it is. Over the next 90 days I’ll be here to support you to win your season. Have a wonderful weekend and remember, let’s play to win.

Use Your Talents in 2010

2010-01-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

"Use the talents you possess - for the woods would be a very silent place if no birds sang except for the best." --Henry Van Dyke

Get Ready to Begin 2010

2009-12-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

"We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives... not looking for flaws, but for potential." -Ellen Goodman

2009-12-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

"It was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, "God Bless Us, Every One!" -Charles Dickens

It's the season for Magic!

Connect with Your Compass in 2010

2009-12-18T09:10:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that we are just six days away from Christmas Eve. My Christmas Playbook is a constant companion this time of year. Every Christmas season I take out my Christmas Playbook and keep it front and center throughout the season. Inside, I list my shopping lists, my guest list, my to-do’s and so on. I record what I’ve purchased and for whom, and what cookies I will bake. I make a note of what hasn’t worked in the past and ideas for improvement. Once I fill up a notebook I start a new one. It’s a Christmas journal and it is my compass. It is my touchstone when I begin to feel overwhelmed by the season.

This year I’ve had the privilege of working with a company that provides this kind of support to women year round. Compass is a personal development company committed to improving the lives of women - and it is the gift I’ve given myself this year. I’m always looking for ways to “do life better”. If there is an easier and faster way to mop my kitchen floor I will find it. But what I am truly committed to is becoming the best person I can become, and there are no shortcuts on this journey. I’ve looked everywhere. I’ve read hundreds of books, attended many seminars and became a professional life coach along the way. I don’t regret one second of my journey.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that it isn’t what you know but what you do with that knowledge that makes the difference. Compass has become my accountability partner, my source for inspiration and empowerment, and keeps me connected to what is most important to me. I receive an e-mail everyday that reminds me to listen to something called a MAP (monthly action plan). The MAP is a series of audio files that guides and coaches me through a monthly topic of my choice. It takes less than 10 minutes a day to listen to the MAP and make notes in my workbook. This month I have chosen to listen to the Spirit MAP called “Live From the Heart”. I highly recommend it!

While this year has brought a mixture of sadness and joy to my life, I feel centered and strong. I’ve made room in my life for amazing and supportive friendships, and I am reminded everyday to hold the space in my life for what really matters to me.

Whether you are a part of a company like Compass or not, this is a simple reminder that it is the small consistent actions taken overtime that have the power to transform lives. As the new year approaches, take some time to think about what you really want for your life in 2010. You have a compass called your authentic voice, and it is a powerful tool. You can create a map for yourself by designing a plan and reviewing it on a regular basis. Connect with a friend, a family member, a coach or someone else who can act as your accountability partner. Learn more about Compass at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz. Remember, this is your life and YOU are worth it.

Now follow-up and enjoy your sweet victories.

Perfect Love is Alive and Well

2009-12-14T07:11:00.000-08:00

“Christmas in Bethlehem. The ancient dream: a cold, clear night made brilliant by a glorious star, the smell of incense, shepherds and wise men falling to their knees in adoration of the sweet baby, the incarnation of perfect love.” Lucinda Franks

Allow the season to work it's magic this week.

Make This Christmas Shine

2009-12-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

The end of the week is here and Christmas is only 14 days away. How will you spend your follow-up Friday? Perhaps you have an office party to attend, or shopping to do. You may have a massive to-do list in front of you right now. Even though you are busy, take a moment to reconnect with your purpose for celebrating Christmas. Is this season important to you? How do you want to celebrate it? It is easy to get caught up in the feelings of overwhelm, and we all will from time to time. Just remember to take a deep breath and reconnect to your reasons for celebrating. There is still time to make this Christmas shine. Now follow-up and enjoy your sweet victories.

Magical Gifts

2009-12-07T07:55:00.000-08:00

"Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect."- Oren Arnold

Enjoy the magic of the season!

Small Changes

2009-12-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

Years ago when I first heard Thomas Leonard speak of personal environments and the idea that my life could be designed to create more joy and energy, I set a very simple goal for myself. I decided to improve my relationship with the alarm clock.
At the time I was raising my young family while working at a job I didn’t like. Each morning at the sound of the alarm clock, the knot in my stomach began to form and the only thing I was thankful for was the snooze button. Things are different now.

I look forward to getting up in the morning, I even get up earlier these days. Some days my “perkiness” actually irritates my teenage daughter. Many things have changed in my life but there is one very simple change that has made all the difference. I changed the sound of my alarm from a jolting buzz to a very sweet medley that softly greets me at 6:15 every morning and warms my heart. By making one simple change in my environment, I experience more joy and energy. I have made friends with my alarm clock.

Today, follow-up on those incomplete projects and unfinished to-dos, and remember that the small changes sometimes make the biggest difference.

Are you sitting on the fence? Do you need a little nudge?

2009-11-30T09:37:00.000-08:00

"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans.

The moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now." - Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

The freedom to choose is such a gift. To make a commitment to something or someone is a powerful choice, and a magical one!

Take a Deep Breath

2009-11-27T08:03:00.000-08:00

During this very busy season I would like to remind you to take a deep breath. How does that feel? Do your lungs easily fill up with air and then release or do you feel restricted? Your body is a wise teacher. Listen to it. It seldom lies, if ever. Are you easily moving toward your future or dreading it? Unfinished business has a way of taking up space in our lives and holding us back. Remember, you are creating a future! If you are chronically putting things off, get support now so you can breathe easy and enjoy the fragrance of sweet victories!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

"I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Enjoy the magic of Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-20T09:06:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but I find it more than a little challenging to stay focused on my goals during the holidays. Everywhere I go there is Christmas music playing, and beautiful decorations that shimmer and sparkle. I do love it all! My own home will be bursting with all of this in just a couple of short weeks, and I can hardly wait. But today I am taking a deep breath to clear my head as I review the goals I set for myself in October when I looked ahead at the coming season. At the time I knew what I would face during the holidays, and I knew that I may not be quite as productive this season. I anticipated the obstacles I might confront, and with that in mind I adjusted some of my goals so that they would be reasonable and attainable. But still, I am not where I intended to be at this point in the season. Today I will take an honest look at where I am, and whether I will lower the bar or kick it into high gear. Either way, I am celebrating where I am today, and I am counting my victories. There is much to be thankful for, and the season isn't over. Happy Follow-up Friday and Happy Thanksgiving!

You May Not Win

2009-11-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

“Courage is the discovery that you may not win, and trying when you know you can lose.” -Tom Krause

Working towards a goal you may not reach will put you on a path where you cannot lose. You'll be required to go further, and you'll engage the power of transformation. Have a magical week!

My Follow-up Friday Plan

2009-11-13T08:16:00.000-08:00

As I look around my office this morning I begin to feel overwhelmed. There is a stack of notes on my desk that must be typed and filed. There are three phone calls I need to return before noon and since I work from home, the pile of dirty laundry is just a couple of doors away and I am feeling some pressure to deal with it. At the back of my mind is the nagging reminder that my marketing plan needs some attention. This feels big and important because my business depends on it. Friday is my day to close out my work week and prepare myself for Monday morning. Saturdays and Sundays are personal days. What is my follow-up Friday plan?

I’ll set my timer for one hour and clear my desk. Next, I’ll allot 30 minutes to return those phone calls. Since my workday ends at noon on Fridays, the laundry will wait until this afternoon when other family members are available to pitch in. By 10:00 AM I’ll have two hours to work on marketing, and I’ll enroll my work team for help. I have a conference call scheduled at 12:30, and I am looking forward to giving that my full attention. I’ve already prepared my Monday morning plan and it is written down in my “playbook”.

I feel confident and in control now because I am focus and armed with a plan. It is follow-up Friday and I am energized and ready to clear the way for a fabulous weekend! How about you?

Do you WANT to win?

2009-11-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

"Winning isn't everything, but wanting to win is." -Vince Lombardi

If you aren't playing at something worth winning, you aren't playing big enough. Step up and play a bigger game this week and enjoy the magic!

2009-11-06T07:50:00.000-08:00

It's the end of another very busy week. But has it been a productive week? We often get the two confused, and it is essential to know the difference if we want to win the season.

In reviewing this week's calendar I realize that I feel extremely satisfied about where I invested my time and energy. My values and important goals are reflected in the choices I've made this week. I know this because I took the time to clarify and write down what is most important to me, and the goals I've set for myself support my values. I am getting good at prioritizing.

This week will be entered into my playbook (journal/calendar) as a win; not every week is a win. There have been times when I've actually felt frustrated and resentful about how I used my time, and I am certain it will happen again. My sweet victory moment lies in the fact that I know the difference between using my time and investing it, and that is the difference between being busy and being productive. I had a productive week.

Will you declare this week a win? If not, what can you do today to turn this around?

It's not too late, so follow-up!
_______________________________________________________________________________

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Magic Begins by Doing What You Can Do

2009-11-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

"I long to accomplish a great and noble tasks, but it is my chief duty to accomplish humble tasks as though they were great and noble. The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of the tiny pushes of each honest worker." -Helen Keller

What can you accomplish today? What can you do to make a difference? Go do THAT and have a Magical Monday!

What's Scarier Than a Gost?

2009-10-30T07:46:00.000-07:00

Today is the day before Halloween, which means tomorrow you will be visited by all sorts of scary and funny creatures. Do you want to know what scares you more than ghosts and goblins? Success. Until you take time to define success for yourself, it will remain mysterious and unfamiliar, and that it the scary part. So after you put away the costumes and candy, take a few minutes to consider what success looks like to you. Consider what you want at home and what you want at work. What legacy do you want to leave your children? How do you want to be remembered when you are gone? Make the time for this little exercise and start anchoring your life in what success means to you. Have a Happy Halloween, and enjoy the ghosts, goblins AND success.

Golden Moments

2009-10-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

"The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone." ~George Elliot

Aren't the fall colors beautiful? Or have you been too busy to notice? Take a break and enjoy the magic.

What Makes Life Worth Living?

2009-10-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

There are so many demands on your time and energy that you may be feeling overwhelmed by the chores of daily living. You may find yourself so focused on what has to be done each day that you lose sight of why you are doing it in the first place. Review this past week’s schedule and notice what you enjoyed doing and who you enjoyed spending time with. What makes these relationships and activities worth your time and energy? Your answer is noteworthy so write it down! You will always be faced with many choices about how to spend your time and energy and it will be entirely up to you to invest yourself well. Make it a habit to follow-up with the people and activities that make life worth living.

Is Life Too Busy?

2009-10-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

"You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait, be quiet, still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked, it has no choice, it will roll in ecstasy at your feet." - Franz Kafka.

Do you feel as though you are chasing after the life you want? Perhaps it is time to sit quietly and allow it to catch up with you. Enjoy the magic!

2009-10-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

Follow-up is a critical piece of any success strategy…and one that is often put off and avoided. You may feel inspired and excited about beginning a new project but three weeks into it you've suddenly lost interest. Why? One possible reason is that you've lost sight of why this project was important to you in the first place, or perhaps it really isn't that important after all. Choose one project or goal that you are currently investing time and energy into and ask yourself why this is important to you? Make a choice right now to recommit to it or let it go because you really do have a choice even though it may not feel that way. Follow-up on what you know needs to be done and what you can do today, and keep following-up until it is complete. Having a vision or an inspiring idea will give you wings but it's up to you to put those wings into action. Now get moving.

Goals That Inspire

2009-10-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

"People are not lazy. They simply have impotent goals - that is, goals that do not inspire them." -Tony Robbins

Do you have a goal that inspires you? Do you have a goal that gets you out of bed in the morning? Set a goal that inspires you and it will be so much easier to get into action. It might even seem magical.

Honor Your Contract

2009-10-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

Your calendar is your best friend when it comes to staying focused and on track but a calendar is only a reflection of the choices YOU make about how to spend your time. Take sometime to review this past week’s schedule and circle or highlight the events you actually attended. Did you attend every event on your calendar? Did you “blow off” a few events at the last minute because you “ran out of time”? Did you attend events that were not on your calendar? Do you spend 30 minutes on the treadmill each morning? Did you spend two hours at your child’s ballgame this week? Add these to your calendar. Go back and “correct” your calendar so that it reflects what you actually did with your time. Make it a habit to reconcile your calendar each week just like you reconcile your bank statement. Allow your calendar to become a contract you make with yourself each week about how to spend your time and who to spend it with.

Now remember to follow-up, make it a habit and win this season!

Your Life Deserves Your Full Attention

2009-10-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

“When you write down your ideas you automatically focus your full attention on them. Few if any of us can write one thought and think another at the same time. Thus a pencil and paper make excellent concentration tools.” -Michael Leboeuf

You are stepping into a new season. Set yourself up for success by clarifying what you want out of this season. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want meaningful relationships? Do you want to clean up your finances? Do you want to complete a big project? Season three will end on December 31, 2009. What do you want to be able to celebrate? Figure it out and WRITE IT DOWN.

2009-10-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Season Four – The Holiday Season!

Give yourself the Gift of Compass this holiday season!

You are now two days into a three-month season. Are you looking forward to the upcoming season? This is a very special season for many people but can also leave you feeling overwhelmed and burned out, especially if you are unequipped and unprepared to deal with it. Don’t get caught off guard this year. Keep playing the Follow-up Friday Game with me and we will work together to keep you at your best during this busy season. Take time this week to map out your season by getting your calendar out and marking all the events and commitments you must attend to. Here are a few to keep in mind, but by all means this is not a complete list:

October 12 – Columbus Day (USA), Thanksgiving Day (Canada)

October 31 – Halloween

November 1 – All Saints Day, and Daylight saving Time ends so adjust your clocks as necessary!

November 3 – Election Day (USA)

November 11 – Veterans Day (USA), Remembrance Day (Canada)

November 26 – Thanksgiving Day (USA)

November 30 – St. Andrew’s Day (Canada)

December 12 – Chanukah

December 25 – Christmas Day

December 26 – Boxing Day (Canada)

December 31 – New Year’s Eve

It really doesn’t seem like that many, does it? And you don’t even celebrate all of these so choose only the ones that are meaningful to you and be sure they are on your calendar.

Now check last year’s calendar, if you still have it, and look for other yearly traditions. Include your child’s holiday pageant, your church celebrations and office potlucks. What about family traditions? Who is cooking the turkey this year? Find out as soon as possible and get it on your schedule.

Nothing is too small to be included. You are in the process of deciding where you will be investing your time and energy this season. Your time is limited, so start counting every minute.

Once you have a clear picture of where your time and energy will be going this season, think about your personal and professional goals for the season. What needs to happen for this season to be successful for you? What actions will you need to take? What conversations must you have? What and who will you have to say no to in order to get the results you really want? These questions will help you tease out your goals for the season. Write down 2-3 personal and professional goals and be sure they are SMART.

You’ve just had a crash course in planning your season, and with a little planning you will be prepared and equipped to enjoy this special time with family and friends.

Give yourself the Gift of Compass this holiday season! Visit www.discoveryourcompass.com for more details. Request additional information by e-mailing me at vicki@sweetvictories.com.

Let’s win this season together!

Is it Going to be a Great Week?

2009-09-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

"A desire presupposes the possibility of action to achieve it; action presupposes a goal which is worth achieving." -Ayn Rand

Will this be a good week? How will you know? Why not challenge yourself today to make it a great week? Decide right now what you'll need to do in order to make that happen.

It's Magical Monday and anything is possible!

Face Your Giants

2009-09-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

We are less than a week away from beginning a new season, season four, which we call the “Holiday Season”. It’s a time when it is easy to get lost in a mountain of activity and social responsibilities. It is also a time for celebration as we focus on spending time with our families and loved ones, and honoring our most sacred beliefs and customs. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

Counting today, you still have six days to complete season three. Over the next few days, simply focus on what needs to be completed this season. You’ll start a new season shortly but for now just focus on finishing what you’ve started. Go back to the goals you set for yourself in July, the goals that YOU said were important. Give yourself credit for what you’ve accomplished. Take some time to celebrate. If there are unmet goals, do what you can do to reach them and declare them complete. If you failed to accomplish your goal, ask yourself how important that particular goal is to you at this point. It may have seemed very important a few months ago but priorities change. It may be time to let it go but don't be too quick to let yourself off the hook. It's your life that is at stake here.

I’d like to leave you with one final thought: “Leave it on the field”. I heard that phrase on a Compass call this past week. Compass held a national training event last weekend at which time they showed a clip from the movie, “Facing the Giants”. Although I was unable to attend, I watched the clip and I was moved to the core. We each have the power to amaze ourselves and others with what we are capable of accomplishing. We inspire others when we take the lead to live an authentically accomplished life; a life in which we focus our strengths and talents for a purpose. Life is worth giving everything you’ve got. I ask you to leave nothing on the field this season.

Click here to view the clip from “Facing the Giants”.

Step Into Purposeful Living

2009-09-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

"When you combine your natural strengths with your values and offer those gifts to others in the form of service, you step into purposeful living." -Kim Fulcher, Remodel Your Reality.

It doesn't take magic to find your purpose but purposeful living certainly feels magical.

Join the Compass Coaching Network and receive a copy of Kim Fulcher's book, "Remodel Your Reality" with your welcome kit.

"Take 10" and Win Your Season!

2009-09-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

September is the final month in season three at SweetVictories.com. What does this mean? It means that YOU still have 12 days to follow-up and win your season. Walk into any store in the country and you will be reminded of the upcoming holiday season. In October I’ll be asking you to set your personal and professional goals for season four, our final season in 2009. But before you get caught up in the hustle and bustle of a new season, stay focused on finishing September strong. As you tackle your unfinished projects and to-do list, remember, you are making room for a new season. Are you excited? I am!

If you need further support, I am here. Through September 30th I will be offering “Take 10” coaching sessions. I want YOU to win your season.

These “Take 10” sessions will cost you only $10.00. These calls last 10 minutes and are designed to provide the support and accountability needed to help you complete your goals and win your season. You will simply dial into my coaching line and together we will focus on what you need to do to win your season. Click here for more information.

What Makes You Come Alive?

2009-09-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” - Howard Thurman

Take Another Step Forward

2009-09-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

It’s a windy Follow-up Friday here in Southern Colorado. I spent some time in the mountains this past week and noticed that many of the Aspen leaves have already turned to gold. With each Follow-up Friday, we get a week closer to a new season, and you have a choice to take another step toward reaching your important goals. Take some time today to evaluate where you are on your path. Are you satisfied with where you are? Are you happy with your progress? Are you doing all you can do each and everyday? Face yourself in the mirror and ask for the truth. Whether you are satisfied or disappointed with your progress, just remember that today you can choose to take another step forward.

If you need further support, go to www.discoveryourcompass.com. Life is a Team Sport. You don't have to play alone.

What Can You Do Today?

2009-09-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

"Each indecision brings its own delays and days are lost lamenting over lost days... What you can do or think you can do, begin it. For boldness has magic, power, and genius in it." -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Do what you can do today and make it a Magical Monday!

What Are You Postponing?

2009-09-04T09:35:00.000-07:00

Today I want to talk about postponement. What are you putting off in your life? I often postpone things until I feel like I have my life in order. Not a bad thing in theory, but do we ever have everything in order? Today is follow-up Friday and I want to remind you that you can get on the path to experiencing more balance, fulfillment and joy, and you can do it now.

Kim Fulcher, founder of My Life Compass, wrote in her book, Remodel Your Reality (which I highly recommend), “a balanced life is, in essence, a designed life.” September is the perfect month to join Compass and start designing your life. Through the Compass MAP (monthly action plan) you will Design Your Life with My Life Compass founder Kim Fulcher. For as little as $19.00 a month for Basic Membership, you can get started today (there is a one-time set up fee of $20.00). You also have the option to join a coaching group and work with me or a Compass Coach of your choosing 2-3 times per month over the phone.

Whether you choose My Life Compass or other structure, the important thing is to make a decision and then follow-up.

The Good Life

2009-08-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

“There are three ingredients in the good life: learning, earning and yearning.”
- Christopher Morley

Make it a Magical Monday!

What Do You Want?

2009-08-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and ask yourself this question, “What do I need most today?” Perhaps you’d love to take a nap, treat yourself to a scoop of ice-cream, go for a walk outside on your lunch break or join a friend for an afternoon matinee.

It may feel selfish to think of yourself before others but don’t confuse self-awareness with self-absorption. Self-awareness will expand you and keep you connected to the world around you. Self-absorption will keep you stuck in your own little world.

There are things you must do in order to keep your life running smoothly but are you really being productive or just staying busy? There IS a difference. Busyness will keep you in motion, but knowing what you want and acting on it will keep you moving forward.

Are you making choices based on what you want, or what you think you should do? We often fill our life with the things we think we should do and we don’t take time to consider what it is we really want.

Now, what do you need today? What do you want? Knowing what you want in your life begins with knowing what you want today.

Tune into the Magic

2009-08-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

"Miracles: You do not have to look for them. They are there, 24-7, beaming like radio waves all around you. Put up the antenna, turn up the volume - snap... crackle... this just in, every person you talk to is a chance to change the world..." -Hugh Elliott, Standing Room Only weblog, May 6, 2003.

Do what you can do today and enjoy the Magic!

Summertime Follow-up

2009-08-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

Autumn officially begins on September 22nd this year. That leaves only four more "summertime" Follow-up Fridays to finish this season strong. I have a list of projects I'd like to finish before the weather turns cold. What about you?

What have you been putting off this summer? Review and update your Follow-up Friday list. Be sure to include the end-of-the season projects and anything else that is "in your space". Remember, the things you leave undone and unsaid consume precious energy and leave you feeling tired and drained.

Follow-up, do what you CAN do and let's win this season together!

Beyond Belief

2009-08-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

"Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit. " - E. E. Cummings.

According to Merriam-Webster, to believe is to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something. What would be possible if you believed in your own goodness, efficacy and ability?

Make it a Magical Monday.

Win at Life One Season at a Time

2009-08-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

Summer is winding down and fall is fast approaching. How do you feel about the way you've spent your summer months? Are you satisfied? Disappointed? Did you take the time to do some of the things you really wanted to do? It's not too late.

Remember the list I asked you to create last week of the 25 things you wanted to do or would do once you retired or won the lottery? Did you take time to create your list? Did you find this exercise difficult? Did you have trouble coming up with 25 things and only listed 5? Did you blow the whole thing off? Life can slip through our fingers as quickly as the seasons do, and you can win at life one season at a time.

You can win THIS season by making the next few weeks count. Take another look at your list and choose one or two things you can do now, and go do it! If you think you can't afford it, be creative. It is possible to have fun and stay within your budget so don't use your finances as an excuse. Do what you CAN do and enjoy your sweet victories.

You Never Know Where Each Week Might Take You

2009-08-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

"It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out of your door," he used to say. "You step into the Road, and if you don't keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off to." ~J.R.R. Tolkien, "Three Is Company," The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, 1954

Step into your week and enjoy the magic!

Are you winning this season?

2009-08-07T10:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another Follow-up Friday. At sweetvictories.com we like to break down the year into 4 seasons, and we are halfway into our 3rd season. How is your season going? Have you set some clear goals for yourself based on what is most important to you? Do you still feel overwhelmed at the thought of trying to reorient your life around your values? Follow-up Friday is about taking the small consistent steps that will transform your life, overtime. I want to pose one question for you to ponder this week: What is it you are looking forward to doing in your life after you pay your dues, put in your time, retire, etc. In other words, list 25 things you would do if you won the lottery tomorrow. Hold on to this list because we will use it next week. Now follow-up and let's win this season together!

2009-08-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see."
- John Burroughs

Everyone has a "TO-DO" list these days but how about keeping a "TA-DA" list? This is a list of the people and activities that add the spice to our life, and it addresses the very basic need we all have for variety.

Here is a glimpse of my Summer 2009 list:
1) Watching Star Trek episodes with John (On DVD with NO commercials)
2) Visit a winery in Sedona with Mary Beth
3) Camping with John and the kids
4) Hiking and swimming in Hawaii
5) Picnic with family and friends
6) Visit family near the east coast
7) The midnight showing of Harry Potter
8) etc, etc...

Some of these I've done and others I haven't....yet. I have quite a reserve of spices and it feels wonderful. And my to-do list still gets done.

Start your list and enjoy the magic!

Time to Play

2009-07-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Follow-up Friday is a good day to:

-Make that phone call you've been putting off.
-Say you're sorry.
-Say I love you.
-Clean out that closet.
-Complete a project.
-Review your toleration list.
-Declutter your kitchen drawer.
-Make that appointment to get your eyes checked.
-Visit that friend you've been missing (even if she lives in Phoenix and you have to get on a plane to do it.)
-Get that accounting done.
-Call that recruiter and update your resume.
-Go fishing with your buddies.

Now it's your turn. What will you do today? It's Follow-up Friday today. Don't sit on the bench, get out there and play!

You Are Magical!

2009-07-27T09:07:00.000-07:00

"Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are." ~Malcolm S. Forbes

Do you find yourself focusing on all the reasons why you can't accomplish your goals? Focus on what you CAN do today. You have everything you need to make it a Magical Monday!

From Whim to Win

2009-07-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

Life Wants You to Win

2009-07-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

Life is a Team Sport

2009-07-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

"All problems exist in the absence of a good conversation." -Thomas Leonard

So much of our life occurs in our head. It's safe there. The problem is that our hopes and dreams can get stuck there and never see the light of day.

Take some time this week to consider your teammates. Who do you turn to when you need to brainstorm? When you need accountability? When you need to vent? When you need a new perspective? When you want to celebrate and share a victory? You may call on different people for different reasons, and you may call on that one special person for everything.

If there is something you really want to accomplish, call on your team. Don't have one? Get one. Life IS a team sport.

Trust

2009-07-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

"To sit patiently with a yearning that has not yet been fulfilled, and to trust that, that fulfillment will come, is quite possibly one of the most powerful "magic skills" that human beings are capable of. It has been noted by almost every ancient wisdom tradition." - Elizabeth Gilbert

What Is Interfering With Your Big Game?

2009-07-17T09:31:00.000-07:00

In the game of life you have many roles. You are obviously the player because it is you out there on the playing field carrying the ball. But when Follow-Up Friday comes around, you are also the spectator. You get to step aside and observe your week in review for what worked and what didn’t. As you observe your game this week, here are a few things to consider:

-Have you named your game? In other words, have you defined what winning looks like to you and what you’ll need to do and stop doing to get to the finish line?

-Are you enjoying your game? Do you play with passion? This doesn’t mean that you are in a constant state of joy but do you look forward to getting out of bed each day? Why or why not?

-Do you have the energy to play the game you really want to play? Are there things you want to go for in life but you just can’t seem to get moving? Try keeping a toleration list. This is a list of the things, big and small, that drain your energy. This is not a to-do list but rather a tool for self awareness. Write down ten things that are “getting on your nerves”. Include the drippy faucet, the demanding boss, or the dog that is shedding all over your carpets. Nothing is too big or too small. Keep this list handy and add to it as things occur to you. This will help you acknowledge the things that are zapping your energy. We often get frustrated because we don’t understand why we are feeling so tired. The items on your toleration list are like the fouls and interferences that slow down your game and hinder your progress. Begin to acknowledge these and you’ll clear the way for solutions to naturally occur. Trust me, this works.

In order to win you must be willing to do what you can do each and every day, so follow-up and continue to play full out. And remember, life is a team sport; more on this next week!

Dreams

2009-07-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

"Nothing is as real as a dream. The world can change around you, but your dream will not. Responsibilities need not erase it. Duties need not obscure it. Because the dream is within you, no one can take it away." - Tom Clancy

Stand Strong for Yourself and Those You Love

2009-07-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

“But if I do everything I should do, I won’t have time to do what I shouldn’t.” -Dennis The Menace

Do you spend most of your time doing what you should do and seldom give yourself permission to do what you want to do? Are there things you want to do that you think you shouldn't do?

It can feel so natural to give a big portion of your time and attention to your obligations and to the people you love. There is nothing wrong with being generous but when you continually focus on others while ignoring yourself, you are in danger of burnout and feelings of resentment and irritability. Each Friday you have an opportunity to scan your week and take actions that will strengthen your own personal foundation so that you can continue to stand strong and show up for those you love.

What did you notice about yourself this past week? What activities did you enjoy and want more of? Who did you enjoy spending time with?

Take the following question with you as you step into a new week: If you could choose how to spend your time and energy, what would you choose more of and what would you let go of?

Oh the places you'll go!

2009-07-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own, and you know what you know. And you are the one who'll decide where you'll go. Oh the places you'll go." - Dr Seuss

What are you waiting for?

Follow-up and Boost Your Vitality

2009-07-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

Are you willing to experience more joy and vitality in your life? And what are you willing to do and stop doing to make this happen?

Follow-up is really about reconnecting with what you really want and then identifying what you need to do and stop doing in order to move in that direction. It doesn't happen overnight but with commitment and consistent action it does happen.

Are you ready to play the Follow-up Friday game?

In the coming week pay attention to what about your life energizes you, and brings you joy and/or peace of mind. Also, begin to notice what activities drain your energy and leave you feeling frustrated, isolated and/or overwhelmed. Once you become aware of how you are responding to your life, you can make empowered choices that will move you in the direction you really want to go. Join me next week as we continue this conversation.

Power of Choice

2009-06-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

"You are the person who has to decide. Whether you'll do it or toss it aside; you are the person who makes up your mind. Whether you'll lead or will linger behind. Whether you'll try for the goal that's afar. Or just be contented to stay where you are." - Edgar Guest

Do you resist making choices? Do you know why? Powerful choices come from listening and honoring your authentic self. Listen and enjoy the magic.

What's Possible with a little Follow-Up?

2009-06-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

It’s another amazing follow-up Friday - truly amazing! Today you have an opportunity to keep your promises to yourself and take the actions needed to create the life experience you desire. Here is a question for you to ponder today: What would be possible in your life if you followed through? Whether you want to strengthen your relationship with others or yourself, lose a few (or more) pounds, or create a solid financial foundation you have the power to make it happen. What will you need to do today to stay on track? You still have plenty of time!

Connect With Your Purpose and Enjoy the Magic

2009-06-22T07:02:00.000-07:00

"Connecting with your life purpose does not have to turn your world on its ear. It does not require massive sacrifice or suffering. It simply requires a shift in your perspective, recognition for what has always been within you, and a willingness to offer those gifts in service." - Kim Fulcher, Remodel Your Reality.

Connect with your purpose and enjoy the magic!

Would you like more support? Go to www.discoveryourcompass.com and sign up for my Remodel Your Reality reading group! It's FREE and conveniently delivered over the phone once a month.

What Are Your Attracting?

2009-06-19T06:29:00.000-07:00

Take a quick inventory of all of the opportunities that presented themselves this past week, whether you acted on them or not.

Did you receive an invitation to a social event?
Did you read about a local club that peaked your interest?
Did someone close to you attempt to open up to you in conversation but you didn't have time to listen?
Did a co-worker ask for help or support?
Did your neighbor ask you to baby sit and you said yes when you were actually looking forward to a quiet evening alone?

What opportunities and experiences are you attracting into your life each day? How do you decide which ones to say yes to? Your choices about how to spend your life directly affect the quality of your life.

Follow-up on this week's opportunities. If you could go back in time, would you make different choices? How will this awareness affect your choices next week?

Decide WHAT you want, develop a plan, and follow-up.

The Gift of Service

2009-06-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

"Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give." - Eleanor Roosevelt

Do you value your unique expression of service? Do you even know what it is and why it matters? It is magical!

Reestablish Focus

2009-06-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

“The quality of your life is directly related to what you focus on in any given moment.” -Kim Fulcher, Remodel Your Reality. Follow-up requires focus, and focus can be a challenge sometimes. Everyday you make choices about where to focus your time and energy. Once you have a clear picture of WHAT you want, you must plan HOW to get it. Whether you want better relationships, more money or to experience more joy, you are responsible for making your dreams a reality. You also need to have clearly defined priorities to help guide your decisions about where to put your time and energy. Don’t say yes unless you mean it. Take some time today to follow-up on where you are choosing to spend your life and why. This will help you reestablish focus and reenergize your dreams.