Momentum Newsletters

Here is an archive of our Momentum newsletters. Click the Read More link at the end of each excerpt to read the full issue.

Newsletter March 2006
Posted by Alison on Jul 06 2006 at 9:58 AM
News >>

Hi,

Thank you
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Thank you for all your kind responses to the news that How to Stop Flogging a Dead Horse is in print. Your congratulations and positive comments are much appreciated! Yes, it's great to hold a copy of the book. I'd love lots and lots of people to do the same so if you're reading and enjoying it, would you spare a few moments to post a review of it on Amazon? A couple of sentences would be great! I know I read the reviews of books I'm browsing and when reviewers disagree, it's even more interesting!
In the past a major writing success has left me with a kind of post-natal blues and the fear that I'll never cover another sheet of paper again. This time, it's not like that. I feel very encouraged and have lots of other writing projects in mind, including the sequel to 'How to Stop...' The subtitle is 'The Business Owner's Guide to Creating Happy Endings'. For me the project began as an exploration of how we manage endings in general. For this first one, we've focussed on actual and would-be business owners. What would you like to see as the sequel? Is there an area of life you'd like to read about? Drop me an email and give me your suggestion!

Write your Amazon review

'I'm reviewing...
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...the situation' as the song goes. The publication of the book has already had an effect on the pattern of my working life. I'm following up the interest in the book and responding to requests arising from it. Among other activities, this means taking on more speaking engagements which I thoroughly enjoy. But of course other facets of my business need attention too. 'Stuff happens' and whether it's good stuff or unwelcome stuff, we need to accommodate the new factors into our existing situation. For me that means taking some of my own advice! Is there anything I need to let go of in order to move on to pastures new? In order to answer this question, I tackle it the other way round and ask, what do I want to keep - or indeed to add?
In chapter 6 of How to Stop Flogging a Dead Horse, I suggest that we pack a case with what we want to take with us on the next stage of our journey. What's left over can be given away, sold, recycled or binned -literally or metaphorically. I find this challenging because I like variety, so making a choice can feel like depriving myself of the alternatives. However, not choosing can result in either doing nothing at all or dipping into a lot of activities without achieving real satisfaction in any of them. Momentum builds when we make choices and take action.

Why not join me in taking time out to reflect on your priorities and on what you really want for your business, your work or your personal life? Try out some of the exercises in the book. I'll coach you through them - ring me to discuss this option. Or take a break here on Bute to chill out and take stock. Check out the website for an Isle of Bute Holistic Break.

Email info@wordsinaction.net or ring +44 01700 500489

Come to Bute

Business as usual on Mother's day
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I didn't go into business for myself until long after my daughter and son were grown up. I am full of admiration for women (or indeed men) who manage a business and small children. Kelly Mason, a friend and business contact of mine sums it up: NOT 'how will I shape my marketing strategy?" BUT "How do you get baby sick out of 100% wool?" NOT "Should I sub-contract to associates or employ people?" BUT "Is it possible to type a proposal, chop veg and assist with undecipherable homework at the same time?" Recognise this anyone? If you've got your own story or tips on the topic, email them to me!
Whether you're trying to balance the books or balance your life, use your energy for what you can directly influence and achieve. We waste a lot of energy worrying about what we didn't do or what we fear we won't get around to.

Instead of doing that, separate your concerns into two piles (like the laundry!). 'What I can influence' and 'What I can't influence'. Focus your attention on what you can change and take action. The other stuff is draining your energy to no purpose - let it go! And whether or not you're a Mum, give yourself a treat on Mother's Day.

Do you need a reason? I'll find you one. Email info@wordsinaction.net or ring +44 01700 500489 to fix a date

Give up something
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Well it is Lent for those to whom that applies! No, seriously I was invited to write about why business advisers should tell their clients to give up more. More often? Or more activities? Could be both.
Best Practice, the monthly supplement of Accountancy Age runs an 'outsider' column where people from outside the industry offer a view. You might care to check it out!

Article: Time to Let Go

Momentum thought for the day
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"Maintaining a complicated life is a great way to avoid changing it." -- Elaine St. James

Quick Links...
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WORDS in ACTION website
Bute Holistic Breaks
How to Stop Flogging a Dead Horse

More websites
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write your review on amazon
BookShaker online bookshop
Nikki Wyatt and The Transformation Game

with best wishes from Alison Clark
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email: info@wordsinaction.net
phone: +44 01700 500489/07974 744156
web: http://www.wordsinaction.net
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