tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90106322560517921162024-02-21T00:18:46.720-08:00Igniting the FireCindy Novotny is a motivational speaker, author, personal coach and trainer that specializes in sales, customer service, and leadership. She is the author of the book "Living with No Balance and Loving It." She travels the globe 50 out of 52 weeks a year. She is a great inspiration for many people. Her passion, and no nonsense approach is what keeps many companies and individuals requesting her services.Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-54042214557870068212013-07-31T17:12:00.001-07:002013-07-31T17:17:00.919-07:00Breaking Up is Hard to Do!I have decided to move my blogging to Word Press and so from this point forward you will want to follow me at www.cindynovotny.com
Just google me at cindynovotny.com and you will enter my new world of stories. There is a difference between breaking out of your comfort zone and not worry about your safety net. Blogger was easy for me, but there are some features that are better with my new site. Please don't break up - just move with me to a different location. See you later!Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-28880266908533388372013-07-28T19:48:00.000-07:002013-07-28T19:48:47.549-07:00August is a Great Month to "Think"Challenging yourself to slow down and smell the roses is easier said than done. August is almost here and it is the perfect time to rejuvenate yourself. In Europe a lot of clients take a long holiday around this time, a lot of families here at home take a break before school starts. So what about you? Sometimes you just need to sit on a porch in the summer breeze, drink some lemonade and ponder your next move. Well, that is exactly what I am going to do this August. We have created a lot of new material for 2014 and I need some time to focus on our next moves. MCA has always worked on being fresh, creative and innovative. We pride ourselves in being on top of what the customer is looking for and that means we all are traveling the globe to find out what is new, what is edgy and what will propel our clients into the future. Many of you that read my blog know that I read constantly. I am always trying to learn - lately everything I read seems to have the same message - <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mZVNRYp6jgC1KwB1yixsUmcg_WLRcpuYQRLT_2blbZoDktN7BauOpuGGQk733ieCLIXEt1DzxrgohtMnIKm34j8_IATCzPJncVuHUN6IbQuPXm5YvP1Yanw8h6w22kWHEnl_tm9MsWKj/s1600/rays+of+hope+in+our+backyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mZVNRYp6jgC1KwB1yixsUmcg_WLRcpuYQRLT_2blbZoDktN7BauOpuGGQk733ieCLIXEt1DzxrgohtMnIKm34j8_IATCzPJncVuHUN6IbQuPXm5YvP1Yanw8h6w22kWHEnl_tm9MsWKj/s320/rays+of+hope+in+our+backyard.jpg" /></a></div>everyone is focused on today, with a bit of worry for the future. The time to make things happen is NOW! You have a small window of opportunity to make a name for yourself. If you left your organization tomorrow - would they miss you? Would you leave a void? If not, you better create some value so when times do get tougher you are the ONE person who will make the difference. Be that person, and take some time in August to figure it out!Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-32879161928489108392013-07-16T22:31:00.000-07:002013-07-16T22:31:23.250-07:00The Art of Craft!The word crafts conjures images of handmade macramé hangers, dried bead mosaics, and clay pots. It always seemed like a ‘throw back’ activity until my most talented daughter enlighten me with her gift and talent.
Research from the Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) found that people dabble into crafts because it provides a creative outlet, offers a sense of accomplishment, promotes relaxation, provides a challenge and serves as a way to learn something new. The CHA also found that more than half of all households have at least one member who crafts. Regardless of the reason they are driven to create something, and there is financial success by making things by hand.
I am an entrepreneur and will always look for a way to increase revenue. I have crafted along the way – I started a company back in the late 80’s – Creative Scarves – fast forward to today with my latest invention of ‘bodacious bibs’ – which by the way weren’t that popular in Orange County, California – home of the ‘real housewives of the OC’. But let’s face it – I am in the business world and all the painting, sculpting and drawing will not bring home enough bacon to fry it up in a pan.
But my darling daughter on the other hand has it all. She graduated from Texas A+M, joined our firm and has been a top sale person in the company for 3 years. In addition she crafts – she is talented, passionate and extremely committed to making authentic gifts for her loved ones and selling these crafts along the way. I have always believed in following your dream and in her case I will hope her dream will always intersect with our business. Here is to creativity, drive, passion and a will to create more than what is just handed to you!
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5R5ITPt0SgfgcN573CqKfjHflYn8IQx3BCMWO_t5ys4YJophu3OmL9V3tpGaQCVqvM3VCRpU_RgU8dQ0hvmpKCKBEtBgsQ1jSgfjSN4ZlBK0DlYDdSIKiF_dMxPu-5uOZhUttyIK9sJ8O/s1600/IMG-20120604-00005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5R5ITPt0SgfgcN573CqKfjHflYn8IQx3BCMWO_t5ys4YJophu3OmL9V3tpGaQCVqvM3VCRpU_RgU8dQ0hvmpKCKBEtBgsQ1jSgfjSN4ZlBK0DlYDdSIKiF_dMxPu-5uOZhUttyIK9sJ8O/s320/IMG-20120604-00005.jpg" /></a></div>Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-71398756225424620392013-05-16T08:07:00.000-07:002013-05-16T08:07:54.407-07:00Happiness is a State of Mind!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinR3kDKKV6ruoNF_fat_1IR5tzfgcOhJv2wTz8g4QlwqkBUxEHCM54iTCrzHLlDzuNZPSSXQlooE_pDtL17MFSoNJhzXLVmsC2otgXU7JiffACx_3eAh4nfDLIn9r67L1lLTSJOT4LvcPZ/s1600/cindy+asia.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinR3kDKKV6ruoNF_fat_1IR5tzfgcOhJv2wTz8g4QlwqkBUxEHCM54iTCrzHLlDzuNZPSSXQlooE_pDtL17MFSoNJhzXLVmsC2otgXU7JiffACx_3eAh4nfDLIn9r67L1lLTSJOT4LvcPZ/s320/cindy+asia.jpg" /></a>I recently read an article that said that as you get older you get happier. I tend to agree with this. As I become older, wiser and bolder I find that I am happier. There are some simple reasons for this. The first one can get you in trouble – but as I grow and become more confident I realize that issues that used to send me over the top don’t faze me now – maybe because I know that I am so much more in control than when I was 20. As a child everything makes you happy (unless your parents take away your “candy.”) In your teens, you get to drive and have freedom for the first time. In your 20’s you are ready to take over the world and know more than anyone so it is easy to be happy. In your 30’s it is your first big promotion, possibly getting married, having kids, buying that first home or following your dreams whatever they may be and wherever they may lead. But let’s focus on those next decades where some people and even some of my friends worry about getting older. I love getting older – it is better than the alternative!
So here are some thoughts for being happy at any age.
40’s – you are young yet and still trying to figure out all the possibilities that life has to offer you in your career and personal life. For some their lives are expanding and their circle of friends and family is bigger. With all the new responsibility of growing households, job enhancements and daily pressure there is some fear, guilt and worry about the future.
Solution – Learn to take on just what you can handle. I always remember at this age wondering why the neighbors had a bigger house, drove better cars and the wives never worked while I was busting my (you know what) to bring home the bacon and fry it up in a pan. My husband always calmed me down by repeating his famous saying, “things aren’t always as they seem.” Some of these people were living way beyond their means and therefore happiness was cut short when sooner than later they would lose their house or downsize because they couldn’t live within their means – so don’t worry about keeping up with the “Joneses” just keep up with yourself and be happy!
50’s – Here is to old friends and new starts. For some in this group you have lost your parents and you are learning to cope with this new chapter in your life. You may be grandparents realizing how much fun it is to have your grandbaby for the weekend and then they get to go home. You start to have more time. Yoga becomes exciting, you run your first marathon, and learn that making up is much better than fighting. There is some stress in coping with all these changes in your health, dealing with aging parents and the possibility of your adult children suffering with job losses and personal issues.
Solution – get in touch with old friends – use Facebook to find all your high school and college friends. If you are married or in a partnership, celebrate that you still have this person in your life to travel with, laugh and cry with. You are not alone. If you are not in a relationship or just ending one – look beyond today. There is someone for all of us whether in friendship or love – don’t sit back – go find them.
60’s – Peace at last. I hear from my friends in this generation that they are filled with gratitude for what they have. Thankful for their long standing relationships, grown children and more time for themselves. Those that can go with the flow find that their life is much easier than the ones that are so focused on living their life from an Outlook Calendar as they did when they worked. There is still stress – issues with the grown children, chronic health problems and the realization that your life has changed for good. There is no more alarm clocks, worry about the next presentation and should you really keep the “big house.”
Solution – go with the flow. Discuss your thoughts, concerns and problems with your spouse or partner and your kids if you have them. Be open and honest. Don’t try to be everything to all people. You have paid your dues and the clubhouse is open – enjoy the party!
Money and Happiness
In my book “Living without Balance and Loving It” I talk about money and happiness. I have always been told that money can’t buy you happiness but I always say that “happiness can’t buy you a house.” There are facts now that show that stress is reduced if you make a decent living – whatever that is for you. Worry about money causes stress at any age. So be smart while you are young and save – save – save. Then your 60’s and beyond will be even happier!
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-16354951419523974792013-05-06T13:27:00.002-07:002013-05-06T13:30:26.154-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvCCcLSAGhb3QGOMp5o7ZXj_jwhWaZ7yJuScKZOVCc0B8kAZRXbY1jgee93CvInE2yx-w335G5x6FQhcmQgNPchK1Jl9iLWKMS-0o-fHmt-P4dt_u_skhGyeEFlTblokV3tjH_J83LLPZ/s1600/cindy+with+thai+man.jpg+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvCCcLSAGhb3QGOMp5o7ZXj_jwhWaZ7yJuScKZOVCc0B8kAZRXbY1jgee93CvInE2yx-w335G5x6FQhcmQgNPchK1Jl9iLWKMS-0o-fHmt-P4dt_u_skhGyeEFlTblokV3tjH_J83LLPZ/s320/cindy+with+thai+man.jpg+2.jpg" /></a>Spin your weakness around!
We all have weaknesses. The real struggle with these weaknesses is first admitting where you fall short. Whether it is in the service or product you sell or the in personal service you deliver. When was the last time you received any feedback? Was the feedback observable? Recently I sat in a workshop and observed people from different countries give each other feedback. The honest, sincere and authentic ideas they shared with each other were enlightening. They took every weakness and showed the person they were giving feedback to how to turn things around to be more positive. While I was at this session I took a Yoga Class and the instructor spoke on the same topic. She reminded each of us that the negative thoughts in our head can be devastating to our wellbeing. She used the example of a? If you straighten out the “hook” of the question mark (which can be negative – always questioning something) to an exclamation mark (!), you will you become more excited in life!
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-42220558658922164512013-04-23T03:07:00.000-07:002013-04-23T03:07:37.005-07:00When in Rome....or Hong Kong, Bangkok, London or Detroit, Michigan!We often hear the term, when in Rome do as the Romans do. But do we really know what that looks like? As a person who travels the globe, I can assure you that I love the different cultures. I love the food, the smell of the flowers, the clothes, and most importantly the people. While spending the month of April traveling and working in Asia, I really became a part of the landscape. I drank Chinese tea, learned how to say different greetings in Cantonese Vs. Mandarin and how to dress for each day in compliance with Thai culture. As I watched the locals blend in between the busy streets of local vendors and still merge into the glamorous shops of the malls of LV and Chanel I realized that being politically correct is not necessary - what is necessary is being real, being gracious, thoughtful and nice. No one questions whether or not what you believe is the truth or what they believe is more important.
I think it is time that the citizens of the United States of America stop tripping over our words with each other and focus on the reality of living the American Dream. If you can afford a luxury car or an expensive watch and I can't - so be it! If you like to donate your personal time to helping others in need, so be it. We are not the same and often cultural diversity in the USA gets to much attention on the wrong things. Instead of trying to say the "right" thing, just enjoy the differences and be nice.
While in Thailand I met a young boy whose parents were worried he was headed for trouble. He was a bully (as he admitted to me) and so they sent him to boarding school in England and to Michigan State in the US. He said the best thing in the world was that he learned that his bullying was not nice. Although he was not bullied in the US, he said he stood out as the only "Thai" kid in the dorm. In fact so much so that his nickname now is TAI! He came back to Bangkok and met with each person he had bullied over the years to apologize. This story doesn't just belong to a young boy who grew into a fine gentleman, it applies to everyone of us. Stop trying to make our world the same - as Americans we should appreciate that the food they eat in Louisiana is different than food in Michigan. What we refer to as Hamburgs in Michigan may be Hamburgers to the rest of the world - my point is to get over it and enjoy the freedom of America. We are different and I love to explore our differences just like around the world. Stand tall, stand proud and be happy you call America home if that is where you live - if not, enjoy your country, your culture and welcome each day with joy!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErh_jiCfXT5b-ox1n2kVmWUoOna-Dwga4QEk8wymJI5HPdOAt2E7Z-W0ZD71RjrqFgR3C0Q_HYuepeITmVu44NeykZS6v7hX88cVywTIsmHYJftxYmS0g9x9Lf8B8aR4XPRQBCb9tbgx2/s1600/veranda+patio+bkk+mo.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErh_jiCfXT5b-ox1n2kVmWUoOna-Dwga4QEk8wymJI5HPdOAt2E7Z-W0ZD71RjrqFgR3C0Q_HYuepeITmVu44NeykZS6v7hX88cVywTIsmHYJftxYmS0g9x9Lf8B8aR4XPRQBCb9tbgx2/s320/veranda+patio+bkk+mo.jpg" /></a>Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-72692070879413594222013-02-26T13:13:00.000-08:002013-02-26T13:13:39.757-08:00Chilly DialogueI am in NYC and it is cold outside - the snow that is pounding the midwest is on its way and lucky for me I am catching a flight before the snow falls tonight. I thought that during this chilly month of February I would focus on our communication - do you inspire people through your thoughts, words and deeds? Or are you a bit "chilly?" Recently I met a person who seemed so warm and engaging in person and then when I began to receive follow up emails from this same warm person they were a bit "chilly." Nothing that this person portrayed in "person" - warmth, caring and engaging ever showed up in their email communication. They came acrossed as if we had never met before. How can this be? How can a person be something completely different in person and then give off such a cold perception in writting? This made me think about how I come across - sometimes I can be too direct in an email but in person I am much more communicative. Let this be a lesson to all of us. Be seamless in your life. Be who you are always - in thought, word and deed!Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-29507143910726560712013-02-07T09:47:00.003-08:002013-02-07T09:47:59.533-08:00Too Much Drama for the "Mama!"Life shouldn't be so hard - with every organization focusing on teamwork, diversity, generational differences, employee and client engagement why do some people personally struggle with being authentic or true to ones self. I actually think that our firm - Master Connection Associates does a good job of walking the talk - but even with a talented group of HR/Training/Consulting and operational people on our team, we sometimes slip. It is about not responding to one another in a timely manner - it is about focusing on your own "agenda" and forgetting you are part of the bigger picture. No one flies solo - not me, not you and definately not your team. We need one another to really improve on the business objectives set by the shareholders - in my case the buck stops here! We walk the talk and insist that everyone is open to feedback and honesty. Years ago in my sorority we sang the song - "No Man is an Island," and I have lived those words my whole life! So humor me and sing along -
No man is an island,
No man stands alone,
Each man's joy is joy to me,
Each man's grief is my own.
We need one another,
So I will defend,
Each man as my brother,
Each man as my friend.
I saw the people gather,
I heard the music start,
The song that they were singing,
Is ringing in my heart.
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Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-65890453185870205592013-02-01T22:05:00.000-08:002013-02-01T22:22:07.314-08:00Ground Hog Day 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It happens every year - does the ground hog see his shadow? What about your personal life - did you see your shadow this morning? Did you feel like you needed to climb back into bed or did you hit the ground running? Why are so many people worried about the future - when in fact each and everyone of us has the ability to help shape that future. Sure the economy, stock market and economic landscape can alter our thoughts, but when I really think about it that has been happening for years. Every year, there is worry about something - the ground hog pokes his head out and decides whether we are ready for spring or not? Well I am ready for spring and I am really ready to lose the worries. Are you?Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-49670092989841820092013-01-25T11:53:00.001-08:002013-01-25T11:53:07.446-08:00get diverse.Ladies & Gentlemen, I am here to tell you that it doesn't matter where you came from, what your background is or the color of your skin, everyone has the innate ability to strive and succeed in this world. People must be accepting of different backgrounds and understand the word - diversity. Accepting people all the same is what you should live by, but I'm not here to run your life. What I will tell you is accepting people from different backgrounds other than your own will teach you things, get you more cultured and truly appreciate the little things in life. I travel all of the world and I embrace it all - you should too.Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-28412578172600422452013-01-16T23:39:00.001-08:002013-01-16T23:39:24.343-08:00Happy New Year 2013Blog 1.16.13
Happy New Year 2013!
I believe things are going to go very well for those you take the opportunity to shine. Take a look at your year – how is business shaping up? What issues can you avoid if you plan better right now? What obstacles are in your way that you need to remove and what changes in your life should you make to shine as brightly as you can?
Re - charge and re - start your battery power to project yourself into 2013! I have already traveled to Asia and back and it is only the second week of January. I thought to myself, it already feels like I have been working months since the holiday and then I remembered what always put a smile on my face – being busy, working hard and keeping the people that work for me employed.
So put a smile on that face and instead of spreading the “flu” spread your energy. It is contagious and unlike the flu, everyone should catch it. So be proud out loud and tackle life with tremendous energy. Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-51182915874406306312012-11-28T11:47:00.004-08:002012-11-28T11:47:58.384-08:00A Leader is Someone You Choose to Follow!Every day, in every city, in every corner of the world I run into people who tell me their horror stories about their “bad boss.” Now you can choose to think these people are just complainers or you can decide that there must be some truth to these ugly stories.
1. The boss who is disruptive in the office and is constantly messing around with everyone and causing loud disturbances
2. The boss who dumps vs. delegates and then complains how busy he is
3. The boss who doesn’t walk the talk – can’t train the sales person on how to close a piece of business because they haven’t sold in years
4. The boss who is moody
5. The boss who has favorites
6. The boss who brings all their personal drama to work
7. The boss who is so complacent they could care less
8. The boss who throws everyone else under the bus
9. The boss who takes credit for others work
10. The boss who got to be the boss because the other bad boss left
If none of these are you – good! If you are any of these – change yourself right now. Don’t wait for a coach, to read a book or go to a class – just simply make the change. If you work for one of these call me at 1-800 BUST-A-BOSS and let me take it from there...
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com104tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-16245429620654711022012-11-09T06:05:00.000-08:002012-11-09T06:05:01.862-08:00The Past = The FutureLooking at your past can always allow you to see a better vision of your future. Twenty five years ago I started Master Connection Associates, and my father was the foundation of my new future. My dad – Ed Pierce, was the head of training & development for The Shell Oil Company. I had watched for years as he led a team of training professionals all over the world in the oil industry. He was an icon with American Society of Training & Development and a founding member of Sales Marketing - Training organization.
I brainstormed with him about my idea for training in the hospitality industry and his guidance and feedback was the pathway to where I am today. As a successful Director of Marketing with Westin Hotels & Resorts, I felt I had what was needed to be a great trainer. He felt otherwise. He told me the last thing I wanted to be was “one of the people out there telling their old stories.” So I took his advice, studied the field of adult education and he began to mold me. The rest became history.
Today, he is still our mentor, designer and oversees the Educational Technologists on our team. He is my go to person for advice, challenges and new ideas. Many times we forget about who and what got us to where we are today, and that it may not take us into the future, but it is and always will be our foundation that will help create our success tomorrow.
Never forget what got you here, and never stop looking at where you are going.
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-4653965707391876982012-10-31T12:39:00.003-07:002012-10-31T12:39:37.505-07:00The Art of ListeningLaptops, tablets, GPS, smart phones, even smart cars! If there is ever anything you need, don’t worry, there’s an App for that! The technology available to us today is endless and advancing daily. With all of these distractions, in person interaction seems to be fewer and farther between. This is why it is more and more important to practice the long lost art of listening. I’m not talking about one earphone in, listening to music, writing a text and watching someone talk to you. I’m talking about stopping, focusing, making eye contact and LISTENING!
Imagine what could be accomplished if we all took those extra minutes to listen and understand what is being said to us. Think of the mistakes that could be avoided! It has been proven that the generational Boomers tend to multitask and listen better that than those of generation x/y and millennials because of these technological advances. However, Boomers still have much to learn from the other generations. If we all teach each other how to listen, learn well and live in a fast paced world, we will all be more proficient in the long run! Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-57469373168272548572012-10-19T10:54:00.002-07:002012-10-19T10:54:34.637-07:00Just Hanging Around Doesn't Add Value...Whether you are a leader an employee, a friend, a sibling or a spouse, it matters to “matter.” Once a person becomes ineffective their days are numbered. This is true in friendships, families and business.
What value are you adding to your friends & family? Do you ever really have a good conversation with them? Do you offer advice or is your relationship based on just going out for drinks and dinner? Now drinks and dinner is just fine – don’t get me wrong. But so many people drain the energy of some of their friends without filling the other persons bucket.
Value comes in many ways. It comes from making a difference at work, at home, with your neighbors and your spouse or partner in life. If comes from caring, it comes from passion and it doesn't revolve around you but around the other person.
If you are just sticking around because the job or the relationship is easy, but there is no real passion to make it better, you are not adding any value to your job or life.
Make a difference today – go out and share ideas with those around you so at the end of the day you can feel good about the value you have added. A friend of mine quote the song from “Chicago,” when he talked about people making a difference – he said I never want to become “Mr. Cellophane...”
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-58433345550961520612012-09-26T13:36:00.001-07:002012-09-26T13:36:32.558-07:00Living Brands...The other day while I was preparing for a big speech I began to soul search on my brand. I am always looking for new ways to position our company and I realized that I am a “living brand.” First of all I really do practice what I preach, but more importantly I am not static – I am alive with energy, real, living life on the road and sharing my passion with people every day. With me it is all about “what you see is what you get.”
I am in China working right now and noticing that some of the “wholesale” brands that are sold here are pretty unbelievable. It is so far beyond the counterfeit purses, watches and luggage. It is about the ability to copy anything. Let’s take the empty bottle of Château Lafite Rothschild that is selling in China for $200.00. Remember it is an empty bottle. Obviously the “wholesale” Chinese company fills it with red wine and resells it for $800.00 which is still a steal for a very expensive bottle of Château Lafite, if you were indeed buying the “real bottle of wine.” Are you kidding me?
When I was doing some research on the wine I read that the name Lafite comes from the Gascon term "la hite" meaning "small hill". Here is a famous legendary and expensive brand of wine that cannot be copied – so they use the original bottle and fill it with a basic red wine. Note that the bottle is original.
Lafite, one of four wine-producing Châteaux of Bordeaux was originally awarded its status in the 1855 Classification, which was based on recent prices. Since then, it has been a consistent producer of one of the world's most expensive red wines.
They can’t copy the wine, they can’t even copy the bottle – but for those who don’t know the difference they are buying the shell. In business I call this the “empty suit.” The person who fakes it through life copying others and calling themselves original is my definition of business or people counterfeit. Remember there is only one that is original – is that you?
So what does this have with my “living brand” story? The thought that someone can copy your logo, your identity and your look does not mean they can copy your inner strength. If you are a “living brand,” you are original, authentic and no one can ever copy it because it is alive and not static.
Lafite meaning “small hill,” has to do with the region and the fertile soil these grapes are grown to make this fabulous wine. There is only one “small hill,” yet people can try and convince you their hill is the same hill. So if you are not living in the present, and alive with energy, someone can take your brand and run away with it, unless of course you are a “living brand.” In that case they would have to kidnap you! As said in China - “Mountains are high and Emperor is far away!”
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-50358100607092445622012-09-06T11:16:00.001-07:002012-09-06T11:16:18.774-07:00Help Comes in Little Ways - One Person at a Time!Every person at one point or another has problems in their work, with their family, friends and even with themselves just trying to make it one day after another. I consider myself very lucky that I have been able to ride the storms, sail through tough times and continue on with success. I do however try my best to help everyone around me make it through their day.
Too many people ignore the problems right under their nose and then wonder why things finally blow up. Think about your own life - the co-worker that comes to work lately with a frown on their face and seems to get irritated every time you approach them, or the friend that hasn’t returned your calls, or the family member who is struggling, or even as simple as a lost person at the airport who doesn’t speak English and everyone including the airline staff ignores them. How can this be? Why don’t you ask more questions – why don’t you step up to the lost person and assist? Why? My thought is that it is easier to walk on by and not get involved. It isn’t your problem, you are too busy to deal with someone else’s issues – you have enough of your own!
You can and will make a difference if you just take a few minutes out of your crazy schedule to show you care. It is a call, a quick text or email or just taking the time to talk to someone who needs you. Keep in mind that not everyone will respond to your help and you must be prepared for that. Sometimes the more you try to give, and the more you try and help, the more YOU are ignored and your help goes un-noticed and un-appreciated. So it can become a vicious cycle – but I would rather ride that cycle out than live with regrets that I didn’t even try and help.
So who should you help today? Who could you make a difference for today? Sitting back in your easy chair and observing life versus participating in it will not make you feel good at the end. So show up, make a difference and never look back.
Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-8984934234560527132012-08-12T08:59:00.000-07:002012-08-12T08:59:37.463-07:00Summer Memories Show a lot about your History!Growing up in the Midwest and spending my summers on Lake Michigan in Northern Michigan gave me a lot of great memories. Memories at the time I didn't even think about - how I loved getting ready for our annual trip by packing all my new summer clothes, picking my friend that would join us (my sister and I always got to bring a friend), and counting the days before we left. For years we spent the summers in my grandparents trailer right on the beach and later my parents bought their first sail boat that would allow us to sail the Great Lakes.
Para"fun"alia was the first "big" sailboat that gave us years of memories. Getting up before sunrise to get a "jump" on the big motorboats, sitting out on the deck and watching the sun sparkle on the waves. We moved to bigger boats and finally to a beautiful yacht named Marie Rae. Wow, it was great. We each had our own cabin, televisions in each cabin, our own "heads," and my Dad as the best Captain one would ever want at the helm.
We sailed her every summer from Grand Haven to Canada and never thought we would spend a summer doing anything else. But things change and as life would have it my parents decided two years ago that they were done boating and put her up for sale. I never cried so hard in my life over anything material - houses came and went, cars came and went, but this "boat" was different, she was our memories. What would we do? Where would we all go for the summer? Sure we could do the hotels, but as a person who lives on the road in hotels & resorts that is the last thing we wanted to do.
So 2 years ago we bought the Novotny Cottage looking right at the harbor where we kept Marie Rae. My parents live there in the summer so they do have their memories and we come and go throughout the summer.
My dad has now decided to buy a smaller boat to go out in to the lake and just have fun for the day. He bought a brand new speed boat that is bright and shiny and goes real fast. We have had fun on it, but sometimes I feel like a trader if I am having fun on any boat other than Marie Rae. What's worst is that we know who bought Marie Rae and they are living on her full time - they changed the name (of course), and the look of her beautiful nautical cabins and they are creating their own memories.
So as I sit on my porch this summer overlooking Betsie Bay and remembering all the memories of days at the dock and life on the water I realize that this is life - it changes like the tide, the sun always rises and sets over the beautiful lake. Only now I watch it from my porch instead of the deck always remembering that it all started there. I will always think of Marie Rae each time we pass the pier and lighthouse on a new boat. She was a foundation of family, laughter, learning how to deal with tough times on the water and most of all she was "our summer."
Where are your memories from? What about your past leads you through tomorrow? I believe that the foundation you give your family during these summer vacations guides them through their life with much success. Spend time with each other because at the end of the day, it is family that will make a difference in your life. Enjoy your summer and don't forget to create new memories as they are the next chapter in your book of life. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TgUOvlKn1aAm8oYOZG16M1c_tdrQkIKegivJlzqm5FQ7xXwrWJH_nhX0Yq3EVB_dpSm6x1CF-ybBLvD4jLuCNN3FR_sPV9IFgi5WPlIYnAE8v_WhLmgHXDu6z16O_tYQ4xa9cozyvJ2c/s1600/point+betsie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3TgUOvlKn1aAm8oYOZG16M1c_tdrQkIKegivJlzqm5FQ7xXwrWJH_nhX0Yq3EVB_dpSm6x1CF-ybBLvD4jLuCNN3FR_sPV9IFgi5WPlIYnAE8v_WhLmgHXDu6z16O_tYQ4xa9cozyvJ2c/s320/point+betsie.jpg" /></a></div>Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-82779048491585290322012-07-20T08:10:00.000-07:002012-07-20T08:10:04.385-07:00Smiles, Charity and InspirationA few weeks ago I spoke at a National Charity League Event for one of my team members in my corporate office and her daughter. I have to say, what an inspirational day this was for me and for the audience of about 50 young girls and their mothers.
Normally, a day in the life of Cindy Novotny is not working with young teenage girls but when I was standing up on that stage looking down at all their innocent faces, I realized, it's fantastic to make a difference in someone's life.
After the speech, I had all these girls and their mothers coming up to me with endless smiles.
You could tell that these were some good girls, but the ones that may have a little chip on their shoulder, were brought back down to Earth at a young age - no matter what age you are, sometimes you must be brought back to reality and realizing what an impact you can make on certain individuals lives.
I was featured in the Orange County Register and that felt amazing. This was not about me. This was about these young girls, smiling, feeling good about their charity efforts and ready to take the world by storm - because guess what ladies and gentlemen, these girls will be working for you in about 5 years!
Cheers to a fabulous weekend!Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-67244340276312903692012-07-14T05:42:00.001-07:002012-07-14T05:42:13.218-07:00Observations of "Real People Doing Dumb Things"
I am sitting right now in the TAP Lounge in Lisbon, Portugal listening to a man on the phone trying to get rid of a virus on his computer. He is talking to his IT professional back in his office and apparently from what I can hear (and everyone else in the lounge) is that he needs to set new passwords for his accounts. So that is exactly what he does - he confirms these passwords OUT-LOUD for everyone in this TAP Lounge to hear them , write them down and hack right back into his computer.
I am sure you can only guess knowing how "curious" I am that I needed to say something to him - my traveling companion - Lefty told me to stay out of it, but I thought otherwise. I leaned over and mentioned that everyone could hear his passwords and he should not say them so loud. He looked at me like I was crazy and said, "I have to give them to my IT guy because he said I can't email them or someone could get them."
OK - I give up. Is everyone a "stupid donkey?"
Just earlier in my day I was at the Frankfurt Lufthansa Lounge and every person that walked by the coat hanger hit their head on the hangers. I watched this for about 20 minutes and then decided I would get up and move the hangers that were sticking out in the way of people walking by. No one else noticed, cared or even made mention that they were hitting their head on the hangers. Honestly - what is wrong with being curious - I just decided that my goal in life is to stay connected and share my thoughts with people whether they want to hear them or not. I know that someone out there will appreciate me one of these days.
Signing off - Airline Lounge Curious CindyCindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-80299098818266939892012-07-10T10:23:00.001-07:002012-07-10T10:23:59.370-07:00How Do You Act on an Airplane?As you all know, I fly for a living. I am traveling this globe 50 out of 52 weeks of the year and see many people, places and attitudes. I have come to the conclusion that you can tell a person's character by how they act on an airplane...
You've all seen it - boarding the plane at O'Hare to "The OC" and you should actually plan on riding in coach because the "Premier" line is so packed with the "Orange Crush" group - the too good businessmen that think a woman has no room standing in 'this' line, the obnoxious person on their cell phone, the mother who is trying to board with her newborn being pushed aside by a man in a suit - that has the "Orange Crush" written all over it.
Now, I live in Orange County, so I'm allowed to say this - but everyone is so consumed with being first in line, first to board, first to be served, it's in our nature - but next time you are flying the friendly skies and you see that mother, elderly person in a wheel chair, someone drop something, think about your character and re-assess yourself.
See you in the skies :)Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-73674377857187159622012-06-26T09:04:00.000-07:002012-06-26T09:04:15.129-07:00Don't Take a Shortcut in Leadership!Recently, I have noticed many leaders putting their head in the sand and worrying about themselves and ignoring the turmoil around them.
So today pull your head out of the sand, dig in your heels and take charge of your destiny. Life is short and you have a small window of time to make a difference in people's lives - are you making that difference? Here are a few tips to jump start your new path to engaged leadership:
1. Sit down with each of your team members and ask them what they need from you and then share candidly what you need from them
2 Set up your expectations in writing and share with your staff -- actions needed, deadlines and goals
3. Inspect what you expect every day
Remember you are responsible for the results of each team member. Not just yourself!Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-1124091233020137322012-05-23T09:28:00.001-07:002012-05-23T09:30:51.308-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Email is not a Conversation!
I have been saying for the past few years that everyone needs to pick up the phone more and call each other rather than having an entire conversation via email. Recently I have seen a few cases where things got heated up because of what was being said in an email conversation. You can not communicate passion, excitement or frustration in an email - it is always misinterpreted. This applies to business, family and inter-office communication. Say what you mean and get it said in less time than texting or typing an email.
Everyone is so concerned about the future of relationships. I hear from my clients in the law firms, hotels, medical centers, real estate and retail that they need to build better relationships in and outside of their organization. If you want to influence people you need to talk with them - not to them! Whether you are in sales, a managing partner in a professional service firm or selling a luxury consumer product - people do business with people. So stop being lazy, stop hiding behind the keyboard and reach out to those you want to talk with - you will be amazed at your success!Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-14201369973350107772012-05-18T10:26:00.002-07:002012-05-18T10:26:52.612-07:00Immerse YourselfNo matter where you are in your job or in the world, it is so important to immerse yourself into your role. In a work environment, you must get to the bottom of all client needs, dive into your job and challenge yourself to reach goals. I tie this in to traveling around the world. 9/10 I am traveling the world for business, so I'm immersed in my job but I really try and become a part of the city I'm in. Immerse yourself in the city or country you're in, learn the history, eat the food, understand the culture - appreciate what this world has to offer and what you have to offer the world.Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9010632256051792116.post-24790687259191123132012-05-01T08:59:00.002-07:002012-05-01T08:59:30.154-07:00The World Belongs to Those Who Explore!I love traveling and as I sat in Cape Town, South Africa last week I realized that my life is exploring the world. Every minute of every day I am thankful that I get to meet people from all over the world, try new foods, learn about history, get fascinated about cultures, clothes, ideals and of course, the magnificent scenery.
I understand that not everyone can travel like I do, but many people are given these opportunities and choose not to go. Exploring is fascinating and you can even do it in the comfort of your own backyard. I believe the world belongs to those of us that are curious. Curious every day, about everything that makes your life more interesting. Try asking questions, challenging the status quo and investing in learning about the future possibilities and you won’t believe the outcome.
The world is waiting – what is keeping you from discovering and evolving?Cindy Novotnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00119697270434845630noreply@blogger.com0