EXPECT The Unexpected... Accept The Unacceptable

Wrote this on another blog - EXPECT The Unexpected... Accept The Unacceptable - and thought that it might convert well to an It's So Simple! ..1 ..2 ..3 lesson, so here goes:

1. EXPECT The Unexpected... what ever happens, relax and assess the situation.

2. ACCEPT The Unacceptable... fume for a moment if you must, but ideally get over it ASAP. Almost always it is impossible to put back the clock. Don't look back!

3. Move FORWARD Positively... one step at a time. Deal with the situation as best you can.

Sometimes what happens to you requires a Hobson's Choice-type decision (recognising its modern-day misuse) where whatever choice presented does not result in a great outcome for you. Take your decision... and then don't look back. Make the best of it.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

Create YOUR Own Economy

Have been thinking along the lines of how we entrepreneurs respond to swings in the economy... and have been discussing the concept of 'Create YOUR Own Economy' at our INNER Circle Business Forum meetings - for venues see: http://www.innercircleforum.com/

You see, we entrepreneurs just don't have any time for recessions and/or depressions in our economies... nor, for that matter, can we afford any time with negative thinkers. So the only way to avoid the problems that affect others is to create our own economies.

In ..1 ..2 ..3 terms there are just 3 simple things that we can focus on:

1. To SELL MORE of my product/service - that's up to me and my team

2. To CREATE MORE sales distribution channels - collaborating with like-minded entrepreneurs in your business network

3. To CREATE NEW revenue-generating opportunities/businesses - through Joint Ventures/Strategic Alliances - see: mdiVENTURES

It's all about being of like-minded, abundance mentality with plenty of enthusiasm and serious intent for sharing resources, skills and opportunity.

Get creative, connect, collaborate, innovate ways to generate another R10 000, R50 000, R100 000, R500 000, R1 MILLION and MORE with your entrepreneurial business peers... whatever the scale of YOUR business objective meeting... YOU CAN do it..!

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

Making A Difference In SOWETO

mdiVENTURES has been cementing joint venture relationships with organisations in Soweto.

The graphic below shows the link that flows from business networking relationships made at the INNER Circle Business Forum, to joint venture strategic alliances nurtered through mdiVENTURES, to a number of interconnected business strategies with differing business partners all designed to help one of our key partners - The SOWETO Chamber of Commerce & Industries - to make a significant difference to SME business entrepreneurs in Soweto.



Note the importance of bringing together motivated, enthusiastic independent business entrepreneurs (e.g. StaffWeb, Ubuntu Kraal and Ushamwari, some at grass-roots, first-time, start-up level (e.g. Community 100 Empowered) and recognised corporate institutions (e.g. Nedbank) to leverage off each others critical skills, resources and contributions.

If YOU want to make a difference in SOWETO in any way, let us know on this link and we'll get back to you ASAP to discuss how we can apply your idea, resource or contribution:

YES Please, I DO Want To Make A Difference In SOWETO, Here's My Idea or Contribution

3-SIMPLE Steps That Built The Greatest Fortunes In History

Mark Joyner provides a free ebook copy of his new book - The Great Formula - on http://www.simpleology.com/courses/tgf/

In it Mark identifies a simple 3-step formula used to build some of the greatest fortunes in history.

Step 1. Create The Irrisistible Offer

Step 2. Present It To A Thirsty Crowd

Step 3. Sell Them a Second Glass

A very good, simple read with neat examples of the formula's application in many successful businesses.

What I like about the formula is that it adheres to the principle espoused in the title of this blog 'Its So Simple! ..1 ..2 ..3' and as discussed in the post - MAD 7. It Only Takes 'HALF-A-DOZEN' Things! - where I write:

'Yes, most often it takes only a few things... 1, 2, or 3 things... just a 'half-a-dozen' things to ensure success in most projects.'

Mark's formula is a creative twist on one I learnt from Jay Abraham to improve revenue in one's business back in the late '80's, which went something like this:

1. Increase the number of new customers in your business

2. Increase the price (and therfore value) of your product/s

3. Increase the frequency of sales to your existing customer base


My own twist on this theme that I use to show retailers 'How To Pull Your Target Consumer's Like BIG Fish... and have them say thank-you for doing it!' goes like this:

Step 1. Go to where the BIG Fish are

Step 2. Give 'em some tasty tidbits to create a Feeding FRENZY

Step 3. Present Your HOOK


Hmmm... am finding myself being more and more sensitive to, and driving my strategic business thinking to, thinking simply in 3's... as mentioned in this post: simplify, Simplify, SIMPLIFY ..1 ..2 ..3


Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

Look In The MIRROR - Accept Responsibility

Am highlighting a simple, profound thought too myself, extracted from a response to a potential joint venture partner who felt that her stimulating an idea alone 'entitled' her to a stake of the future project.

To explain, all the other potential participating project partners took the trouble to meet and move the idea to implementation... and the above person didn't bother to pitch with no apologies given.

Naturally, after discussion and consensus decision, she was excluded from the initial project launch with a way-in offered to show her future commitment to delivery... which was not well accepted by herself.

This was part of my response, which is also a reminder to self that I must take responsibility for all consequences that happen to me... and to 'deal with it'..!

I fully understand... I have the very same t-shirts 'earned' from many projects that I have kick-started in my lifetime and where I felt a 'little peeved' at the outcome.

In almost every case, where my emotions pointed the finger of blame at others, my head has recognised that I allowed each situation to happen.

I've learnt to accept full responsibility for all consequences that happen in my life... most times, such acceptance, sticking in the craw and difficult to swallow.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

What's More Important To The CONSUMER... The Process or The End-Product?

Am busy contemplating my navel... ;-)

Thinking about designing a new seminar training program and blog.

Question going through my head is... what's more important to the consumer... the Process or the End-Product..?

I get this picture of trying to convince an experienced connoisseur whisky-drinker (of which I am not) to try a new brand of 'the finest distilled malt whisky'.

What's going to impress him/her most?

An explanation of the PROCESS?

Or... a taste of the END-PRODUCT?

Hmmm... think I'll have to test this with my audiences.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

WALK Your Talk & MAKE A Difference!

Now, here's what I want you to know... many have said that I have been blessed with a God-Given GIFT to help people to change their lives for the better.

Well, I'm not too sure about having been Divinely singled-out to receive this GIFT. I do, however, believe that God has blessed us ALL with the ability to help people to change their lives for the better.

'No One Can Teach You That Which They Have Not Done' - Tom Hopkins

Please understand one thing... there is a lot of reference to 'I', 'me' and 'my' in this copy. I want you to understand that this is not meant to be self-serving in any way, but merely the opening of my heart and sharing from my soul the thoughts of a very ordinary joe, coming from an extremely humble background (some would say church-mouse poor) and having achieved what others say are EXTRAORDINARY things. I can only share what is in my heart and mind right now... and it IS personal.

This is my personal contribution to YOU... and I am happy to keep it personal between us like this, if YOU are... :-)

Here's How YOU can Receive Magnificent 'Thank-You' Testimonials Just Like This:

Hi Trevor, 'Thank you once again for all the hours of effort you put in on our behalf – we are very blessed to have a leader like you! The ongoing information, knowledge and inspiration we gain from you will stand us in good stead for many years to come. The session was so inspirational... you gave us so much valuable information. What I gained most, learnt from and excited me, was being able to experience the structure you have established as your base from which to operate, and the insight gained from this exercise. It has inspired me to do the same in my life with my dreams and goals. I am simply drinking it all in and learning as much as possible. I look forward to the future.' Regards, Dee Thomas

Here is an example of the type of information - just 10 simple, personal life-changing observations - I have shared with the thousands of people I have met wherever I go... and why they are given to sending me such thankful testimonials.

Sit back... relax... and ENJOY..!

MAD 1. Know That YOU Are A 'Role Model' To Someone..!
MAD 2. YOU Will Be 'Judged' By What You DO… Not By What You Say..!
MAD 3. No Matter What YOU Do... You WILL Be Criticised. So WHAT..!
MAD 4. STAND UP For Something... And BE COUNTED..!
MAD 5. BE TRUE To Yourself... Then Treat Others With The Same Respect..!
MAD 6. The 'Secret' To HUGE Success Is Not A Secret... It's All Around You..!
MAD 7. It Only Takes 'HALF-A-DOZEN' Things!
MAD 8. Live YOUR Life With PASSION..!
MAD 9. Be Willing To Accept PAIN... Living Life To The Full Takes Some RISK..!
MAD 10. Make GOOD Things Happen In YOUR Life..!

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

SA & Jake White's 2007 Rugby World Cup DESTINY

Go Bokke... Go..!

And boy, didn't they do just that.

What a fantastic picture of John Smit, his team and President Thabo Mbeki with the 2007 Rugby World Cup hoisted high above their smiling heads.

For me, this is a great story of focused strategy and planning on the part of ONE man - Jake White..!

There is absolutely no doubt that Jake visualised this moment four years ago when appointed to the role of South Africa's National Rugby Coach.

He knew what he needed to do - build up a team of committed professionals who would be ready to take on the best in the world in 2007... and set about doing it.

Was it easy? Hell, no! Everything bad about political interference and internal politics in sport was thrown at Jake. Yet, he never wavered on his quest. He knew what he needed to do, and did it.

Not for one moment do I discount the incredible commitment of his players. They were the ones to put their bodies on the line. But, for me, it was Jake White who gave them the support of consistent selection to build up their experience and confidence as players who could take on anyone and win.

John Smit, as captain, was critical to Jake White's plans - he became the solid rock around which the team was built. And, I think that he is only going to get better as both a player and a leader..!

Move over, Sean Fitzpatrick... your successor has arrived.

Well done all... DESTINY smiles on those who prepare for it.

Regards

Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790

innercircle@tiscali.co.za

MAD 10. Make GOOD Things Happen In YOUR Life..!

Aaah... all good things must come to an end... and on this tenth and final point of this GIFT to YOU... I want you to understand one very important point:

If you want GOOD things to happen in your life... MAKE THEM HAPPEN..!

Nothing GOOD... nothing GREAT... ever 'just happened' out of nowhere. It never 'just happens' out of inactivity.

If you want to make Big Money... Travel The World... Live on Your Own 'Dream Island'... have Financial Freedom to do whatever you want to do in life... you have to Make Things Happen..!

It is in these coming days and weeks that YOU will make DECISIONS and COMMIT to achieving your personal dreams in your life... through whatever you believe will help you to achieve your Life's Purpose.

Everybody, but EVERYBODY, looks back in deep regret at some missed opportunities that they WISH they had been able to take up.

But... YOU... YOU are at the beginning of a fresh opportunity in your life, a time to review your life... YOU are the beginning..!

In the next few days and weeks YOU are going to lay the foundation for YOUR fortunes in your life... you're either going to make them BIG... or small..! It all depends on what you COMMIT to.

John Milton Fogg provides a fantastic quote on Commitment:

'Until one is committed there is always 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: that 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 dreamt would have come his way.'

Well... to get you started in your NEW direction... or to help you continue on your way in your current direction... to live your life with PASSION... to be ON PURPOSE... here are three of my personal Robert Kiyosaki book reviews for those who really want to generate the WEALTH needed to achieve most people's dreams.

Extra Related Reading Link 7: www.mydreamisland.com/richdadpoordad2003.htm - Rich Dad Poor Dad

Extra Related Reading Link 8: www.mydreamisland.com/cashflowquadrant.htm- Rich Dad's Cash Flow Quadrant

Extra Related Reading Link 9: www.mydreamisland.com/richdadsbusinessschool.htm- The BUSINESS SCHOOL - For People Who Like Helping People

Now... here's the one truth that I have learnt about people in my many years of leadership in personal, business and community projects... you cannot motivate those who don't want to be motivated... so I only ever look to work with those who put their hands up and declare that they want to stand out from the rest... and who will take ACTION..!

I advise you to do the same... ;-)

And so... the time has come for us to part company. I have enjoyed spending this time with YOU... and I hope that you have discovered just one or two of the reasons why I get so many 'Thank-You' Testimonials dropping into my email Inbox.

It is because I apply all of the principles that you have just read above, in my own life... and they naturally affect other people's lives at the same time. It is most uncommon for me not to get a testimonial from someone whose life I have touched in some meaningful way... and I don't set out make a difference in their lives deliberately... I set out to make a difference in my life first... and it just seems to rub off on so many other people. It's really amazing..!

Here's the latest unsolicited Testimonial that has just dropped into my Inbox, right this minute:

Hi Trevor, 'We have just moved into new offices and been waiting for our ADSL to be transferred. Anyway I've just gone online now and received all of these awesome emails you sent. Thanks for the opportunity on Friday to see what this business is all about and what potential it has. We (myself, Graham and Boyd) are very excited about what lies ahead and working hard on a plan to 'give it horns'. Thanks very much for your time, presentation and emails. They really are an excellent motivator and keep my mind very much one-tracked about my business potential.' All the best, Allan Palmarozza

Hey... if something in this article has got you really excited about your life, don't be shy, share your thoughts with me... send me your little testimonial and I'll add it to my incredible collection of 'Thank You' Testimonials. Click Here to send YOUR Special TESTIMONIAL.

It makes me feel really GOOD about my life just to hear that someone is excited and passionate about theirs.

I'd just love to hear from YOU and make a new friend online, maybe one day we'll meet soon on our global travels... :-)

Just do me one favour... begin to share from your heart the GOOD things that are beginning to happen to you as you live YOUR life with PASSION... and watch the 'Thank You' Testimonials come pouring into your Inbox too.

Enjoy your life..!

Points To Ponder

1.) Know That YOU Are A 'Role Model' To Someone..!
2.) YOU Will Be 'Judged' By What You DO... Not By What You Say..!
3.) No Matter What YOU Do... You WILL Be Criticised... So WHAT..!
4.) STAND UP For Something... And BE COUNTED..!
5.) BE TRUE To Yourself... Then Treat Others With The Same Respect..!
6.) The 'Secret' To HUGE Success Is Not A Secret... It's All Around You..!
7.) It Only Takes 'HALF-A DOZEN' Things..!
8.) Live YOUR Life With PASSION..!
9.) Be Willing To Accept PAIN... Living Life To The Full Takes Some RISK..!
10.) Make GOOD Things Happen In YOUR Life..!


Action Program

Find a way to sit down with someone… and take them through the information in this article.

Share with them what it has meant to you… apply insight from your life… and ask them to comment on what your ‘heart-to-heart’ sharing does for them.

Do this TEN times with ten different individuals and let me know the results.

I am betting that we will both be blown away by the response to you. Let me know.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/ trevor@innercircleforum.com

What's ONE Thing In Life That You've Learnt..?

Trevor writes:

Was asked by an acquaintance: 'What's one thing in life that you have learnt..?

I decided to think quickly and posted this response on her blog:

That no two people see all things the same way all of the time - everyone has their own unique perception of life, events and circumstance that may or may not align with mine from time to time. Actually - most of the time.. ;-) Don't fret or sweat it!

Hmmm... something to ponder.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 9. Be Willing To Accept PAIN... Living Life To The Full Takes Some RISK..!

Now, I am most certainly not here to try to convince you that life is just as simple as putting on a pair of rose-coloured glasses. On the contrary, my experience of life is that it is extremely TOUGH... it REALLY HURTS at times... and that goes for almost everybody I know.

But, here is my strange observation, those who become successful in life... who move to the front of the queue... who strive to reach the top and SUCCEED... ALL seem to have one thing in common: They are ALL willing to accept the PAIN that comes from stepping out of their comfort zones.

Almost always the successful few seem to be willing to make their lives just that little bit TOUGHER in the short term... to make their lives EASIER in the long-term.

Conversely, the unsuccessful majority just seem to wallow in their TOUGH lives, not wanting, or daring, to increase their activity and discomfort levels and choosing to remain motionless, blowing bubbles deep in the poo of the cess-pit of their lives for fear of sinking deeper. These are the poor, hopeless, dissatisfied people in life who proclaim : 'Life stinks!'. Is it any wonder..?

In my opinion, this world revolves on the principle of 'Sink or Swim'... and the deeper you are 'in the poo' the more active you have got to become to get out of it.

Perhaps a nicer picture is to think of life as being as tough as a cat falling into a vat of fresh milk... if the cat swims fast the milk will turn to butter and it can climb out... if not, the milk will claim another victim. Yes, It's a TOUGH life..!

Those who are successful in life are almost ALL willing to take RISKS... not foolish risks... but well-calculated risks. Risks that increase their PAIN... risks that bring with them untold rewards in life.

Show me a successful leader, any successful person for that matter... and I will show you someone who has endured the pain of sleepless nights in idea-formulation and strategy planning; suffered the backlash and criticism of their harshest enemies and even their closest friends; risked their own time, money and resources to 'walk their talk'; faced hostile, sceptical crowds on public platforms; and who has been rejected many times to the point of deepest despair.

Yet... they remain steadfastly COMMITTED to their end objective.

It is all about your ATTITUDE to life... if it STINKS, you sink..!

On the subject of attitude, I have a simple little piece of personal inspiration that I share with everyone that looks to work with me in any of my many business projects... I think you'll enjoy it:

Before we talk too much about how to make the BIG Money, let's quickly touch on what ATTITUDE will be necessary to succeed - the ABC's of Success - in this business:

A is for ATTITUDE... if you come to us with a Winning Attitude ...a Can Do Attitude... a No Nonsense Attitude... a Caring Attitude... a Common-sense Attitude... an Open-Minded Attitude... an Understanding Attitude... a Patient Attitude... a Willing Attitude... YOU will make it BIG with us..!

B is to BE... to Be YOU... Be TRUE... Be a LEADER... Be a Difference-Maker... Be Meaningful to others... Be Teachable... Be Duplicatable... and most of all, Be Proactive in gathering everything you need to BELIEVE... in You... your Company... your Product... your Team... your Dreams... otherwise why would you waste your time and ours..?

C is for Commitment... you can have all the A's and B's in bucket loads but if you don't mix them with a commitment to achieving a specific target you're just a highly motivated jack-rabbit. Commit to a target... start with bite-size chunks... small targets... commit to getting your first few sales... commit to helping them get theirs (if they also become distributors)... commit to supporting your growing team... commit to doing support presentations from your home... commit to growing your income to $1000 p.m... commit to earning $2000 p.m... $5000 p.m... $10 000 p.m... $50 000 p.m. commit to becoming the biggest earner in your business. YOU must COMMIT.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 8. Live YOUR Life With PASSION..!

Life becomes pure joy when you begin to live your life with PASSION..!

Most every one of the truly passionate people I know, who really live their lives to the full, have developed their passion for life by asking themselves a few GOOD questions.

In my opinion, the very best soul-searching questions one can ask to uncover your real passion in life came to me via deceased author John Kalench, he asked:

1. If I didn't have to work for a living... what would I like to do..?

2. If I were just given $1 Million, tax-free... what would I do with it..?

3. If I learnt that I had six months left to live... what would I do with this time... starting now..?

I have learnt that when YOU ask good questions of yourself like this... you will get GOOD answers.

Go ahead and answer these questions for yourself right now.

Take out 3 sheets of paper for each question and write down the first things that come into your mind... no matter how crazy you might think the thought to be. Just let your mind flow and capture your first thoughts.

Having posed these questions to many thousands of people, I have become aware of an almost universal conformity of desire.

People just seem to want to generally be Healthy, Wealthy and Happy... with a very strong specific desire expressed to 'travel the world', to 'spend MORE time with MY family', to 'make a difference in the lives of others'... and to 'get to know my Maker'..!

The answers you wrote down to the three questions above will give you some very strong clues to help you answer the next two questions:

4. What do I believe is MY Life's Purpose..?

5. What is MY True PASSION In Life..?

When you analyse what YOU believe to be YOUR Life's Purpose... and what you believe to be YOUR True PASSION in life... you can now begin to start re-structuring your life to begin living to YOUR dreams... your PASSION.

Nothing, but nothing, becomes more compelling than a person who is on a mission... enjoying their lives to the full..!

And, YOU can begin living this lifestyle right now... every DECISION you take right now can move you one step closer to achieving your dream. You can know that each step you now take can be the most PASSIONATE step you can possibly take because it is ON PURPOSE.

When I did this exercise for myself a good few years ago, this is what I wrote... and how I identified what I wanted to do to live my life with increased PASSION (some will say that I've never really been short of this attitude to life.. :-)

I LOVE my lifestyle... working from home... being my own boss... totally debt-free

I am PASSIONATE about learning of new ways to GENERATE QUALITY INCOME and for testing and building new businesses

I am REALLY PASSIONATE about discovering new ways to generate BIG INCOME from global markets via the Internet

I LOVE to TRAVEL around the world WITH MY FAMILY - that is my idea of FUN

And... yes, that's how I live my life, right now, doing what I want to do, when I want to do it... it's great..!

Well, I like my life... although my lifestyle might not suit everybody.. ;-)

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

simplify, Simplify, SIMPLIFY ..1 ..2 ..3

Trevor writes:

From this post - MAD 7. It Only Takes 'HALF-A-DOZEN' Things! (extract below) - I am reminded that it is all to easy to fall into the trap of adding unnecessary complexity to ideas, projects, strategies, et al, that should be as simple as ...1 ..2 ..3

Too many people look to make the simple things in life too complex to understand.

Yes, most often it takes only a few things... 1, 2, or 3 things... just a 'half-a-dozen' things to ensure success in most projects.

I am resolving to simplify every idea, project, strategy I have into a 'simple as ..1 ..2 ..3' graphic presentation.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 7. It Only Takes 'HALF-A-DOZEN' Things!

In all my experience... in many different adventures, sports and business projects that I have undertaken and enjoyed... and, from my extensive studies of many of the world's most successful people... it is clear that SUCCESS comes from focusing on getting just a few things right... and continually looking to improve upon those few things.

Yes, most often it takes only a few things... 1, 2, or 3 things... just a 'half-a-dozen' things to ensure success in most projects.

Some like to call it 'Pareto's Principle'... some call it the '80-20 Principle' - where 80% of your results come from 20% of what you do. I think it is much simpler than that... just focus on the few things that work.

Too many people look to make the simple things in life too complex to understand.

Sometimes I think that it is their way of retaining 'power' for themselves. This is especially so in autocratic business enterprises and in overly-officious bureaucratic government offices.

Look to extricate the complex, and isolate those that want to complicate life, and dump them for the simple things that will make any project fly.

There is almost always a simple solution to any complex problem... and sometimes it takes an uncluttered simple mind to see this solution.

Simple rules.. OK..!

While we're at it... if you can find just 1, 2, or 3 things... just 'half-a-dozen' insights from this GIFT of MAD principles/ideas... that you can take and apply to your life... to make a meaningful difference in your life... and in the lives of others... then I will have considered this effort, to share this information with you, as being well worth my personal time and my investment to host this information online.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 6. The 'Secret' To HUGE Success Is Not A Secret... It's All Around You..!

We live in a special time in the history of the world where EVERYONE (who can read, or who can listen to someone who can read) has the ability to gain access to ALL the information they need to become a KNOWLEDGABLE 'expert' in almost any subject matter of their choice... in as little as 30 days.

Yes... look around you... wherever you look, in libraries, bookstores, on your own bookshelves... in books, audio tapes, video cassettes... on T.V., satellite channels, documentaries and on the Internet... everyone can access and share in the success 'secrets' of the most successful people that have ever lived.

Many years ago, I sought out these super-successful people through their writings and seminars and conducted my own in-depth reviews of their works.

You cannot help but internalise their positive input when you put their 'secrets' into action.

I'll share some of these personal reviews with you later in this forum.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 5. BE TRUE To Yourself... Then Treat Others With The Same Respect..!

YOUR life can only be lived by one person... YOU..!

And, this life is the only one you'll get on this planet (some may disagree, but I have a firm opinion on this... ;-).

No one can get into your mind... no one can truly understand your innermost feelings... no one can understand what really drives you.

So here's a little tip... BE TRUE to yourself.

Identify what it is that will get you excited about this life... what it is that will get you living your life with integrity and PASSION.

Start asking yourself 'What's In It For Me' to do what I intend doing... and if it really gets your juices flowing... do it..!

When YOU learn to respect yourself in this manner... you will get to recognise and respect that everybody then has the right to be doing exactly the same in their lives.

You will then start being considerate of the 'What's In It For Me' considerations of others when you approach them to do things with you... or for you.

Now, don't get me wrong, this has nothing to do with taking a selfish approach to life. In fact, the selfish person will never be able to live to these ideals. It has everything to do with elevating yourself to command a priority of respect in YOUR life.

All to often, we forget just who we really are... and how UNIQUE we are as individuals... and we subordinate ourselves to the whims and desires of others. Be TRUE to yourself... then treat others with the same respect.

This reminds me of a fantastic verse that I carry around with me all the time, I have no idea who to credit with this work, but I am sure that I discovered it in one of Zig Ziglar's magnificent publications:

'Man travels hundreds of miles to gaze at the broad expanse of the oceans;

He looks in awe at the Heavens above;

He stares in wonderment at the fields;

And the mountains;

And the rivers and the streams;

Then... he passes himself by... without a thought...

GOD'S MOST AMAZING CREATION'

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - http://www.innercircleforum.com/
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 4. STAND UP For Something... And BE COUNTED..!

Today's society is chock-full of people who couldn't care two hoots about anything or anyone... this society is also chock-full of people who are really unhappy with their lives.

These are people wondering what their real purpose in life really is, wondering what they can do that is different, bemoaning almost everything that happens in the world... and wishing that someone would do something about it.

Well, that someone is YOU..!

Someone who can take the DECISION to make a meaningful difference... in your life... in the lives of others. Someone who IS prepared to stand up for something or someone... and be counted..!

What all of these unhappy people in the world, who couldn't care much about anything, are missing... is the fact that life is really quite simple, the rules are really quite cut and dried... there are no grey areas to life (I love the reaction this stirs with the 'grey' people in life).

Every matter that confronts us as a society allows us only one of three responses. And it is our response that determines how life unfolds for all of us in society.

We are either FOR something... or AGAINST something... or we don't have an opinion either way (called 'sitting on the fence').

Whether we like it or not, each of these three positions in life, on any matter, will have either a POSITIVE effect or a NEGATIVE effect, dependent on which of the three allows for the status quo to exist on that matter.

For example, there are many who are concerned about the destruction of the South American Rain Forests... if the number of people intent on destroying these forests combined with the number of people who couldn't care two hoots OUTWEIGHS the efforts of those who are intent on protecting them... these forests WILL be destroyed.

Disinterest and apathy (i.e. not having an opinion either way) unfortunately, almost always WEIGHTS the result towards a NEGATIVE effect for society... or whatever the matter at hand.

Thankfully, I have found that the DECISIVE ACTION of the few... to take a firm decision FOR or AGAINST a matter... to stand up and be counted with integrity... can alter the course of any matter. It can alter the course of history..!

The strange thing is that when you take a decision to stand up for something or someone and you do your best to make a meaningful difference... no matter what the result... YOU tend to feel good about yourself for doing something..!

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 3. No Matter What YOU Do... You WILL Be Criticised. So WHAT..!

This world is so full of different people with differing opinions, morals, values and vested-interests that, no matter what you do... some people will LOVE what you do... some people will hate what you do... and some people won't have a clue who you are or what you do.

For anyone with a fragile ego... or an ego that needs to be continually stroked... this can come as a serious blow to their self-image.

Here is the harsh truth about life.

Some folks will love you.. some will hate you... some won't give two hoots for you... SO WHAT..!

Do the BEST you can anyway.

Which reminds me of a fantastic piece of philosophy, that has had an enormous impact on my life, originally brought to my attention by Rev. Robert Schuller.

He discovered this in the Readers Digest, December 1982, entitled 'ANYWAY'... it reads:

People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centred...

Love them anyway.

If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives...

Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you will make false friends and true enemies...

Succeed anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable...

Be honest and frank anyway.

The good you today will be forgotten tomorrow...

Do good anyway.

The biggest people with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest people with the smallest minds...

Think big anyway.

People favour underdogs but follow only top dogs...

Fight for some underdogs anyway.

What you spent years building may be destroyed overnight...

Build anyway.

Give the world the best you've got and you'll get kicked in the teeth...

Give the world the best you've got anyway.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 2. YOU Will Be 'Judged' By What You DO… Not By What You Say..!

Never before in the history of the world have so many ineffectual, unworthy, uninspiring 'talkers' had the unadulterated gall to stand up on public platforms to espouse their views on 'leadership'... and who have never, ever shown any past ability to lead themselves out of a brown paper-bag.

People are sick and tired of listening to 'talkers' who never deliver... 'talkers' who do precisely the opposite of what they advise everyone else to do. Talk is cheap..!

People follow and respect those who 'walk their talk'... who DO what they say... who deliberately take ACTION to deliver on their promises... and make good on their commitments.

YOU will be 'judged' by what you DO... and not by what you say. People will 'judge' you by your ACTIONS.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

MAD 1. Know That YOU Are A 'Role Model' To Someone..!

Yes, it's a frightening thought, isn't it..? To know that someone, somewhere, looks up to you as a role model.

Someone would just love to have your life... to do what you do... to have what you have... to be just like you.

And... how good a role model do you believe you are to that 'someone'..?

Are you truly proud of who YOU are, of what you do... and of the things you stand for..?

If you are... that is FANTASTIC... because, here is our problem in this world today - we live in a very IMPRESSIONABLE society.

And... everybody... yes, including you, is a 'role model' to someone else... for better or for worse.!

Whether you are a legend, a hero, a champion... a beggar, a thief, a fool... know that YOU are a 'role model' to someone..!

Yes, you had better believe it... everyone has 'someone' looking up to them... someone who wants to emulate what they do.

For me, that is the most frightening, and the most exciting of insights anyone can have about our society.

Frightening because... it explains why supposedly 'intelligent' people can follow depraved despots into the mass genocide of millions of innocent people... why gangs of people form evil crime-syndicates to rip-off honest, law-abiding citizens... why many, many people get sucked into the despair of mind-numbing, financially-crippling drug addiction.

Mostly all follow the lead of someone they mistakenly 'admire' as a 'role model' for their finery, their power, or some other surface-level attraction.

Yet... it is also an EXCITING revelation because... it means that YOU are responsible for the way that some people will act and behave in the world..!

It means that YOU can make a meaningful difference in the world... just by being the person you are.

It means that, right now, YOU are either having a POSITIVE or a NEGATIVE effect (there is no in-between) on the world through your impact on other people.

That is awesome knowledge if you choose to apply yourself to being a QUALITY Role Model. You can literally begin changing the world... one person at a time.

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

Walk YOUR Talk!

Now, here's what I want you to know... many have said that I have been blessed with a God-Given GIFT to help people to change their lives for the better.

Well, I'm not too sure about having been Divinely singled-out to receive this GIFT. I do, however, believe that God has blessed us ALL with the ability to help people to change their lives for the better.

'No One Can Teach You That Which They Have Not Done' - Tom Hopkins

Please understand one thing... there is a lot of reference to 'I', 'me' and 'my' in this copy. I want you to understand that this is not meant to be self-serving in any way, but merely the opening of my heart and sharing from my soul the thoughts of a very ordinary joe, coming from an extremely humble background (some would say church-mouse poor) and having achieved what others say are EXTRAORDINARY things. I can only share what is in my heart and mind right now... and it IS personal.

This is my personal contribution to YOU... and I am happy to keep it personal between us like this, if YOU are... :-)

Here's How YOU can Receive Magnificent 'Thank-You' Testimonials Just Like This:

Hi Trevor, 'Thank you once again for all the hours of effort you put in on our behalf – we are very blessed to have a leader like you! The ongoing information, knowledge and inspiration we gain from you will stand us in good stead for many years to come. The session was so inspirational... you gave us so much valuable information. What I gained most, learnt from and excited me, was being able to experience the structure you have established as your base from which to operate, and the insight gained from this exercise. It has inspired me to do the same in my life with my dreams and goals. I am simply drinking it all in and learning as much as possible. I look forward to the future.' Regards, Dee Thomas

Here is an example of the type of information - just 10 simple, personal life-changing observations - I have shared with the thousands of people I have met wherever I go... and why they are given to sending me such thankful testimonials.

Sit back... relax... and ENJOY..!

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

Thank-You's, Compliments & Testimonials

This from one of my old promo pages from a few years ago ago (perhaps good to keep these things on record I suppose):

Trevor Nel - S.A.'s Leading CHANGE-AGENT
Personal - Business - Community
Proven Developer of Multi-Million Rand Projects
'He WALKS His TALK'

How does one measure one's success in life..? Simple... you don't... you go out there and do the best YOU can in your chosen endeavours to please YOU... and let other people give you their measure of your success by their thank-you's... if they really want to... :-)

If you go out looking for compliments you are likely to be disappointed. If you go out looking to achieve your own happiness in life with integrity... the compliments come flowing in.

Each year Trevor has had the wonderful privilege of receiving many 100's of unsolicited thank-you letters from folks grateful for the impact he has had on their lives.

As Trevor travels the country... sharing his own Personal, Business and Community experiences and views on Success... he shares a quick selection of some of the thank-you messages on file to show you how people feel when YOU take the time to make a difference in their lives.

Thank-you's are FOOD for the soul... ;-)

Personal

1. Hi Trevor, It's good to have you back! It feels like you are the heartbeat of business and you shine a BIG bright light making this world look like a dream place of opportunity and possibility, all packed neatly into your emails ... a nice, warm, fuzzy feeling! Just by the way, one can feel your heart and it feels good to have someone around who cares and keeps being the good shepherd. Thanks and God bless... Debbie

2. Hi Trevor, Welcome Back from the Fairest Cape – my home town. Your holiday brought back many good memories for me. That’s going to be my destination next year during the festive season – for an AWESOME break with friends and family! It’s always good to hear from you as you write such uplifting and informative e-mails. Here’s wishing you and your family a GREAT YEAR, FILLED WITH NEW CHALLENGES AND SUCCESS. Kindest regards, Rene Ring

3. Trevor, Just to echo the mails at the bottom. You are superb and it has been one of my finest pleasures getting to meet you and Tony. As I said this morning, the energy you exude is phenomenal and your integrity goes without saying - it is of the highest quality. Lynda Fussell

Business

1. Hi Trevor, Thank you for the infomation you're sending us. As I mentioned before, my life and that of my family has changed due to your inspiration and the articles I have been receiving. I am still using the process of sharing this idea with friends and those I meet. Thank you Martin

2. Trevor, "Just" a compliment and thanks. I have spent the last 2 hours reading your book 'Another Great Day In Africa' and your web links galore..etc,etc,etc. Really amazing how much you have produced in what appears such a short time. Commitment and dedication to the idea keeps it going. Fantastic that your efforts can be made so easily and readily available to the entire world! Thank you, George Savage

3. Hi Trevor, Just a short note to say thanks once again for last Friday at our Business Forum. Jean sent me an e-mail in appreciation, and I quote: '...met sprekers soos Trevor, raak mens weer bewus van die belangrikheid om jouself te omring met positiewe mense. Trevor het daarin geslaag om weer die lekker van die lewe, en die lekker van besigheid, te bevestig. Dra asseblief my waardering aan Trevor en die span oor'. Enough said! Groetnis Chris

4. Trevor, Thanks! You and your group are the most professional team I have ever seen. I'm am so excited to have the chance to work with you. Thanks for your Leadership, Eddie Terranova

5. Hi Trevor, Juvio is one of those fantastic business opportunities that present themselves only on very rare occasions. I am fully committed to do whatever it takes - I like your analogy of R1 million in the bank - that is my goal for 12 months down the line. The incredible support provided by you and the team makes this business a winner in all respects. My heartfelt thanks for the opportunity and the support. Many thanks and kind regards... Vic Burrows

6. Thanks Trev... for ALL of the background efforts as well as the time you put in for all of us. Viv Brown

7. Dear Trevor, Having spoken to Eunice yesterday and having heard of the success she has enjoyed from INNER Circle, I realise that I cannot afford to miss a meeting, neither can any other business person. Janis Bryden

8. Well done Trevor, the pending visit from Steve is amazing, little old South Africa has got someone's attention... you must be very proud of what you have started in a short time frame. Who thought INNER Circle would have resulted in this! Good stuff big guy!! Iain Johnstone

9. Hi Trevor, I would like to first of all say thank you for inspiring me to take the final leap of faith and start my own business. Thank you very much. Ursula Gouws

Community - (a good few 100 on file this year alone :-)

1. Testimonial:, Trevor Nel began the "Lonehill Security Project" in July of 2000. He witnessed one of South Africa's most violent terror attacks which has resulted in one of S.A.'s most successful stories to-date. He decided to take on a 3000 strong community of residents in Lonehill to rise up and fight fire with fire. Residents still stand amazed at the results Trevor has achieved and the buy-in he has attained from the most radically negative and apathetic who today stand as allies in a most noticeable synergy. We all acknowledge the tremendous efforts put in by this one individual and today Trevor is a household name. Tony Henry - Chairman - Lonehill Residents Association 2001

2. Testimonial:, I have had the pleasure of working with Trevor for over 4 years from mid-2000 to the end of 2004 in my capacity as co-director and, for the last three years, Chairman of the Lonehill Residents’ Association. The LRA has achieved results that are world-class in pulling together a community to manage its security and environment to a level with little or no peer. In under 5 years, the LRA has gone from a fairly typical residents’ association with little formal structure and limited means to an operation that now manages R1m a month, a security provider with some 230 people directly employed on the project, a full-time Estate Manager with a team of five gardeners, and a full-time administration service provider managing the infrastructure. A great deal of the credit for these achievements goes to the efforts of Trevor, whose vision and marketing dynamism have been major factors in driving the project forward. Trevor is clear and determined in his goals, and not one to let controversy slow him down. Chris Crozier - Chairman - Lonehill Residents Association 2002 - 2005

3. Hi Trevor, This note to wish you and all your family all the best through the coming year. I also was extremely pleased to see that everything was still intact back home and I would like to express my appreciation for what has been done by you and the rest of the team in keeping Lonehill the place where I want to continue living. Kind regards John Siddall

4. Subject: Grateful - Trevor, my best wishes and thanks for your good care - Charbonnel : Costa Rica Consulate (Lonehill)

5. Dear Trevor, I would like to applaud your dedication to the cause and thank you for your untiring efforts to get the entire Lonehill community on board. Where would we be without you. My very best Christmas wishes to you and the LRA. Yours gratefully, Jennifer Clinton

6. Dear Trevor, I would like to wish you a very happy end-of-year and all the best for 2003. You have been such an inspiration to all of us throughout this year and I am sure there have been hard times for you but we really, really appreciate all your hard work and effort. Keep your spirits up. Kind Regards Cindy and Tony Maddison

7. Dear Trevor, Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. I hope next year brings you lots of good things. Thank-you so much for all you, Fidelity and the LRA have done for us Lonehill residents. Sandra Hughes

8. Trevor, I appreciate all the hard work and effort that you put into the Lonehill Security Action Group - thank you. (Letter Shortened) My unreserved good wishes to all 'Lonehillers', and God Bless all of you. Sincerely, Moyra Webster.

9. Trevor, As always - well done on your amazing efforts! I know that to keep up the momentum takes a huge effort. I would like to suggest that all residents who receive your emails, print 3 or 4 copies each and deliver them to their nearest non-contributing neighbours, every single week!. This way we can reach a larger number of these residents. Jen Atkins

10. Dear Trevor, It is really quite daunting to read in your latest bulletin that you are now into the last few months of your commitment to Lonehill. Three years ago you made an undertaking and you have surely delivered "tenfold" in the face of much mindless apathy and resistance. You have rattled many cages and created some antagonisms ... but you have kept the whole process moving forward.

I know that you have created a structure which will endure. Lonehill residents will realise, in the years ahead, how much they owe to you and your "key" group of volunteers, all of whom are busy men with little time to spare. When the LRA is finally set-up to administer and control the activities of the village the residents will have a real asset in their hands. An asset which will continue to improve the values of their homes and businesses, and the quality of their lives in this lovely suburb.

It is just astounding how long and difficult it has been to get across the idea of all working together for the general good. I was sad to note the comments of the Chairperson of Pilgrims Rest Chamber of Tourism ... " one positive aspect of the murder is that the entire community has for the first time all been working together to improve the security and infrastructure of the village" !! What a tragedy that it should need such a terrible thing to happen to make people THINK. We had a wake-up call three years ago... have our non-contributors forgotten ??

I must not write any more ... I'm sure you've heard it all ....and sometimes come close to despair. I started off to say how much all that you and your colleagues have done is appreciated by the "thinking" locals and I finish with warmest good wishes for a Blessed Christmas, and Health, Peace, Good Fortune and Happiness to you all in the New Year. From Bill and Gina Parr

PS Wishing you and your family a magic and blessed Christmas. May the New Year bring you all the joy, and peace that you so rightly deserve. You are a "giant" of a man, may the Lord continue to bless you and give you the strength you need. Love, Gina.

For tons more testimonials Click Here

Trevor adds this quick message and contact number:

'Hope you get just as inspired to make a difference in other people's lives as I do.'

Regards
Trevor Nel - (int. 2711) 705-2790 - growth@global.co.za

He's MAD - Is What they Might Say

I hardly ever concern myself for what others might say about me on the day that I die... but I suppose it might well be: 'He's MAD!'

So I'll interpret that as being one who Makes A Difference - a meaningful difference - in the lives of others.

A couple of years ago I wrote a piece entitled: 'Here's How YOU Can Make A Meaningful Difference In Other People's Lives'.

Sub-title: 'How You Can Receive Tons Of ‘Thank You’ Testimonials'

I'll share that piece on this blog in bite-size chunks... here's the intro:

Yes, YOU too... can receive grateful, heartfelt 'Thank-You' testimonials flowing into your inbox almost every day, just like these:

Dear Trevor,
'WOW..!! Thank you for an inspirational and stimulating morning and for the obvious effort and preparation you put into making it so successful. Bless you for sharing your God given talents, for inspiring and helping so many people - we can only benefit from your experience, enthusiasm and dedication to what you do.'
Kind regards, Maureen Cheetham

Hello Trevor, 'Another very rich day yesterday – I can see why it took your whole life to prepare for it..! What I‘m seeing of your focussed life is a good wake up call. You gave another good lot of practical & pertinent literature... and access to videos that are very valuable, refreshing, simplifying and invigorating. Left with a feeling of great value (again). Many thanks for the on-going education.'
Kind regards, Paul Bullock

Dear Trevor, 'Thank you from the bottom of my heart for a truly memorable morning and for sharing so much of yourself and your beliefs with us, you were superb. You have underlined and underscored everything that I have read and attempted to live... about how to live a joyful and happy life and the tools we were given at birth in order to do so. The most awesome part was how you opened your life to us and shared your beliefs, and of course on looking into those more closely, therein, is plain to see, lies your success. What EXCITED me the most as a LEARNING experience... was the knowledge that with commitment and the right attitude anything can be achieved.'
Kind Regards, Camila Visser (since passed away)

Hi, my name is Trevor Nel... and I enjoy the rare privilege of receiving 'Thank-You' Testimonials, just like these (above), almost every day... and I want to share with you how YOU can experience this wonderful privilege too.

It does not matter wherever I go... whatever I do... whether in my Personal, Business or Community life... these 'Thank-You' Testimonials come pouring into my email inbox in, literally, their hundreds and thousands.

I'll share some of these awesome letters in the next post.

It is an incredible experience..!

Regards
Trevor Nel - 011 - 705-2790 - www.innercircleforum.com
trevor@innercircleforum.com

About The EDITOR

Extracted from first issue Vol.1 - printed April/May1992

Trevor K. Nel, Founder and Managing Director of Growth Holdings (Pty) Ltd, is one of those rare and unique individuals who has paid his dues in experience.

By the tender young age of 35 he had progressed from failure in matric and University drop-out to part-time lifeguard, to employee, to manager, to small business entrepreneur, to Franchisee, to Franchisor, to Director of Companies, (Private and Listed).

Highly regarded as a public speaker ranging from Share Market Investment to Motivation Techniques and Entrepreneurial Business Skills, Trevor has the extraordinary capability of rousing people of all levels to respond to his message.

His many achievements include being:

- an Exec. Board Member of the South African Franchise Assoc.;
- running 10 Comrades Marathons;
- paddling 10 Duzi Canoe Marathons;
- swimming 15 Midmar Mile Marathons;
- the 2nd person to attain 10 gruelling Natal Iron Man finishes;
- playing Provincial (Natal) and S.A. Universities Waterpolo
- developer of many business concepts & Dir. of Companies.

These and many other interesting extra-mural activities - like taking up the plight of minority shareholders versus the might of S.A.’s heavyweight Financial Institutions and winning - have laid a foundation of experience, determination and drive, which all readers can trust and aspire to.