1. Be results driven. 

     It is easy to be overwhelmed by influences and miss outcomes. It is possible to worry so much about what people thing, that you miss the results that will insure that they think well of you.

     Staying in touch with your performance as the results really indicate is perhaps the healthiest sales thermometer. It is impossible to be unrealistic about your sales performance, if you are in touch with the real facts about the results.

      As many of you know, I teach Shotokan karate. In my teaching, I remind students that their greatest contest is with themselves. But in the context of telling them this, I make them aware of the real facts about their technique level and degree of improvements needed.

Sensei Tim leading students in kicking drills.

     The best sales pro’s are able to take this martial arts perspective with their selling skills. They remind themselves that they are always in a contest with themselves to improve. And in so doing, they stay in touch with the real facts about what they are doing, as compared with what they are achieving.

Be Results Driven!

2-  Face your difficulties with courage. 

     It is amazing how failing to face an area of challenge can inflate it in your mind. Avoidance tactics actually make the problem harder to deal with. Facing things squarely tends to make them look smaller, while failing to face them makes them look bigger.

     It does take courage to face difficulties; because the truth about ourselves is that we all make mistakes. Facing our difficulties demands that we own up to these defects. That is where excellence begins. At the thresh-hold of being honest with ourselves, in our professional assessments.

Honest Business is Good Business

Face your difficulties with courage!

3- Meet your problems directly. 

     Another thing that Shotokan definitely teaches students is a linear strategy. The old axiom is that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. And this is true in business and life.

     I am the worst sometimes, at over-complicating a situation. I am not running down analysis, unless it is an excuse for paralysis. Do not let your thinking be an excuse for inaction.

Meet your problems directly!

4- Smile and Wait. Rather than push on ahead and regret.

     While, I am plainly for being action oriented. When you truly do not know what to do; do not compound your lack of information by the ignorance of claiming it as knowledge.

     I have learned to write notes to people who I am concerned about the content of and then save them as a draft. Sometimes, I send them the next day after modifying them. Sometimes, I send them in a few days. And sometimes, I become very glad that I never sent them.

       Work your thoughts out on paper, before you spit them out of your mouth or send your undeveloped thoughts to someone else. Often your second thought will be your best thought. There is a definite time to NOT hit send, NOT speak out of uncertainty and Smile and Wait!

5- There is a time to: Quit thinking about it.

     Reason can be the process of being solid and sound minded. It can also be the process of being wimpy, excuse driven and un-motivated. When you have done your homework, thought about it and prayed about it. Then, Quit thinking about it And Do It!

Use these sales tips as the catalyst to drive your sales growth and have and awesome selling week.

1. #Sales – Be results driven!  http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/

2. #Sales – Often difficulties are like a bully. They will not leave you alone until you face them with courage! http://gutsisthekey.com ;

3. #Sales – Meet your problems directly and promptly in sales AND in life! http://gutsisthekey.com ;

4. #Sales – When u r uncertain about what to say; Smile & Wait!! Wait until you know! It is better than having to take back poorly aimed words.

5. #Sales – Quit thinking about it. Pick up the phone. No contact. No sale. Call the customer. Initiate a dialogue. 

6. #Sales – In a funk you can’t seem to shake. Go wash your face with cold water. Don’t knock it till u try it. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

7. #Sales -Take the issue most difficult n ur workplace & find something about it for which u r grateful & build on this-http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work- ;

8. #Sales – Practice a sense of purpose in your selling. Identify targets daily, before you begin your day. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

9. #Sales – Practice every single time at being nice to people, then even when you don’t feel good; you can still sell! http://Gutsisthekey.com/sales 

10. #Sales – When solicitors take up your time; insist on an appointment. Let drop in’s drop out. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

11. Know when to dig in and when to dig out. http://gutsisthekey.com ;

12. #Sales – Knowing when to dig in & knowing when to dig out is a powerful sales instinct that u must develop to win. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

13. #Sales – When someone tells you no & you have given it your best shot. There is one thing to emphatically say: NEXT! http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

14. #Sales – Sometimes the result of positive sales energy is to move on to the next task. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

15. #Sales – Although persistence usually pays; there is a time to move on and not waste any more time with a prospect.

16. Let’s start the day off right and do the best we can to be the best we can! pic.twitter.com/CcBwtGzhHH

17. Growth only occurs when we are pushing the limits of our envelope. We should always be stretching & reaching to grow! http://gutsisthekey.com ;

18. In the marketplace of social media, new thought is refreshing. Twitter is the place to build new new ideas. http://gutsisthekey.com

19. #Sales – When solicitors take up your time; insist on an appointment. Let drop in’s drop out. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ ;

20. Know when to dig in and when to dig out. http://gutsisthekey.com ;

21. #Sales – Knowing when to dig in & knowing when to dig out is a powerful sales instinct that u must develop to win. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … 

22. #Sales – When someone tells you no & you have given it your best shot. There is one thing to emphatically say: NEXT! http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

23. #Sales – Sometimes the result of positive sales energy is to move on to the next task. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

24. #Sales – Although persistence usually pays; there is a time to move on and not waste any more time with a prospect. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

25. U need not fear getting stagnant in the #sales game. The key is a good attitude & working on staying “relevant.” http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

26. #Sales – You should have your own professional goals, that go far beyond what your employer has for you. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

27. One way you ensure that you stay fresh in the #sales endeavor is by setting new goals continuously. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

28. #Sales – RT @johngalvin67 ‘ The one who is #prepared to walk away from the table…is the greatest negotiator….’ – Mark McCormack

29. Making it a regular practice 2 test market new ideas may B just the fuel u need 2 take ur sales game 2 the next level http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

30. If we want 2 improve our #sales game-we need 2 take calculated chances-We need 2 regularly examine new possibilities http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

31. Never forget that the marketplace is enormous. There are more avenues and angles than you can think of. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

32. If you feel stuck in your current efforts. Use your imagination. The answers may be outside the box. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

33. A powerful lesson helped me in the whole of life-especially #sales. “Run Past The Finish Line.” Do not let up when u see the end in sight.

34. #Sales – A great attitude works, as long as you keep on working on it! http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ … 

35. #Sales – Attitude can never be taken for granted and must always be worked on. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ … 

36. As U try new things-make sure 2 include ur good attitude-Otherwise, it’s like trying 2 evaluate a car with poor fuel. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

37. Trying different angles in ur selling is like wearing a different shirt every day-It keeps U looking good & original. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

38. #Sales – As a matter of fact, you may never know the outcome until you try the new way of doing things. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

39. One way that market relevance is obtained and maintained is through test marketing efforts. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

40. #Sales – Have the customer describe what he ideally wants, BEFORE you start describing your product or service. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …
    

41. #Sales – Sense tension between you and the customer. Stop the sales process & give your customer a chance to explain. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

42. #Sales – What is it that your customer wants? Do not start a sales pitch, until you know this. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

43. #Sales – Regularly read what other experts in the sales and marketing field say to keep your own approach on target. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

44. #Sales – It will not make you “canned” to practice an approach; as long as you are genuine & in the moment; it will make you more efficient.

45. #Sales – Honestly caring for your customers will come across in everything you do and win you business. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

46. You may find that Variety is the spice, you needed to revolutionize your sales.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

47. Know what you do and do it well. But don’t ever become market place lethargic. Mix it up. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

48. It is amazing what the hands on guys can teach us sales types. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

49. If you are a sales coach, regularly work with your team to try “new” angles of approach. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

50. Offer educational resources 2 consumers 2 help them in general & in specific 2 C that ur product offers a solution. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

51. Promise 2 make reps pocket books fatter for levels of performance-U will find that ur sales force can B very creative http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

52. Can your product be directed towards vacation-trends-popular fads or community pop culture-Aim for specific groups.

53. Do not forget the value of target marketing to spice up sales. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

54. Do not forget to utilize the natural changes around you, as great stimulators to keep fresh sales efforts.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

55. Advertising needs to be as inventive as your sales. Don’t be afraid to stand out from your competition http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

56. Differ your strategy development approach for each market segment.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

57. Add variety to the clearly defined “niche” that you best serve. This will increase your achievement. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

58. #Sales – Over-commitment is not “Variety.” It is a lack of aim. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

59. Over-commitment is not “Variety.” It is a lack of aim. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

60. Trying to be everything to everybody is usually unsuccessful. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

61. You may blame the product for not working in a given area, where the marketing is strictly to blame.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

62. #Sales – The greatest product in the world can flounder, without knowledge of its customers. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

63. The greatest product in the world can flounder, without knowledge of its customers. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

64. N a less than desirable area-A sales function is 2 make sure reach out efforts 2 better areas take place effectively. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

65. It is a necessary function of shrewd sales operators 2 make sure they choose 2 trade in heavy traffic & popular areas http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

66. The savvy salesman knows that production, procurement and transport efficiencies will benefit the sales offering. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

67. #Sales – Logistics is also a necessary name of the game today.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

68. It takes this kind of “in touch marketing” to survive and thrive in today’s market place.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

69. Human beings like change. And so, effective marketing MUST change.  http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

70. Even the most pleasant undertaking can become a rut, when there is no variety. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

71. #Sales – Even the most pleasant undertaking can become a rut, when there is no variety. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

72. #Sales – Sometimes a change of pace can improve almost anything. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

73. Sometimes a change of pace can improve almost anything. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

74. Variety is the Spice of #Sales http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

75. #Sales – Unless you walk out into the unknown, the odds of making a profound difference in your life are pretty low. – Tom Peters

76. #Sales – Day by day, what you do is who you become. – Heraclitus / http://GutsIsTheKey.com ;

77. #Sales – “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”

78. #Sales – Falling down is how we grow. Staying down is how we die. – Brian Vaszily / http://gutsisthekey.com

79. #Sales – Good ideas are common – what’s uncommon are people who will work hard enough to bring them about.- Ashleigh Brilliant

80. #Sales – Your job is only as big as you are. – George C. Hubbs http://gutsisthekey.com ;

81. #Sales -It is not your customer’s job 2 remember you-It is your responsibility 2 make sure they don’t have the chance 2 forget you- P. Fripp

82. An optimist is someone who goes after Moby Dick in a rowboat and takes the tartar sauce with him. – Zig Ziglar

83. #Sales – Take one of my tips. I have 2,000 and put it up where you can see it each day, to sharpen your game. http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/03/25/the-power-of-a-test-market-slams-sales-tips-1500-1600/ …

84. Looking for a new career move that definitely offers the opportunity to move from poverty to success. Try #Sales  http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

85. #Sales – Market Research can help you know and serve your customer better. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

86. #Sales - Self pity is an acid which eats holes in happiness. Earl Nightingale  http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

87. #Sales – Remember, you only have to succeed the last time.  Brian Tracy http://gutsisthekey.com/2013/04/05/variety-is-the-spice-of-sales/ …

88. #Sales – is like competitive athletics-Even a loss can be a learning experience & needed to identify how to improve. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

89. #Sales – is like competitive athletics. You must continually train to improve. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

90. #Sales – is like competitive athletics. Competition will always cause a true performer to give their best. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

91. #Sales – is like competitive athletics. Attention to detail & improving basics will always increase ur performance. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … 

92. #Sales – is like competitive athletics. You always need to be trying to do better. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

93. #Sales – is like competitive athletics. Your competition is always with yourself. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

94. #Sales – is like competitive athletics – There are rules of the game, you have to follow to stay in the game. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

95. #Sales – is like competitive athletics – The right tools and equipment will help you perform your best. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … …

96. #Sales -It is only when we go beyond what is expected of us that we begin 2 discover the thresholds of our potential. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

97. #Sales -Having a crappy day? Go 2 the mirror & smile until u believe the image looking back at u means it. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ … #TryIt!

98. #Sales – If you get out of sorts; treat it like dirty hands. Wash it off and clean it up and then get back to work. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

99. #Sales -If things do not go our way-expect this as part of the program-Getting upset most often just deters progress. http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

100. #Sales – A power pause can be a powerful time management tool. As Zig said: Don’t forget to checkup from the neckup! http://gutsisthekey.com/category/work-related/sales-sales-training/ …

“Slam” a.k.a Tim G. Carter

     There is a narrative of one of Paul’s experiences in the New Testament that really helps illustrate this point. While trapped in the dreariness of a prison cell, he and his brothers of faith sang. Yes, they sang. Rather than bemoan the harshness of the terrible situation they found themselves in. They found the courage and inspiration to sing songs of celebration. The outcome of this account is their freedom and a demonstration of God’s willingness to help them in their circumstance. How often this message can help us. 

     By looking at the blessings within us, rather than only the challenges around us; doors of deliverance often open.

     When I first wrote the framework of these thoughts a couple of years ago, chances that I had given up on had come back into the horizon of my life.  A new approach on life was what caused this. And a new approach was what I needed to see these changes take place. I tell you truly; this kind of change is often easy to talk about and hard to do.  It was very costly for me to make this life transformation. It  was worth it but it was not easy.

     The problem with a new attitude is that we have to get rid of the old one. The best analogy I can think of to explain this idea is:  We must change the oil…… In a car, when you get rid of the old, you must immediately put in the new. You can not just recycle the old oil and the car continue to perform. You must completely change the oil, not just refresh the old.

     This would be difficult enough were the need transparent. But many of our problems are not so clear. Our problems are not always what is so evident to us. But our problems are usually the issues that are not so clear. The problem that most often haunts us is the problem behind the problem.

     And the problem behind the problem is that we can’t change the oil, until we recognize that the old stuff is just that; old stuff. We hang on to the old. We Even deny that it is a problem. We stay tore up, messed up and upset; because we deny that we have a problem. The only way for lost chances to return (& they don’t always) is to approach life with a new outlook.  

With a new outlook; even if missed opportunities do not return; renewed possibilities often will. This brings

me to the elephant hiding in the room. The real question is: How are you looking at things today? Perhaps the answer to a new you is a new outlook based on some honest, deep soul-searching.

     Sometimes, we can not just keep on with the status quo and expect life to be good. Life is not static. It requires change. Sometimes, it even requires that we stop, to change. There was an important season in my life that I could not go forward, until I stopped what I was doing. And a major cease, halt and re-evaluation was needed for me to make needed course re-directions.

     I literally had to stop my whole world and take a look at my life for the purpose of changing it. This strategy is with much historical precedent. A sabbatical has been long recognized in many circles as a solid, healthy way to change.  Is a sabbatical needed for you to get rid of the old, so you can make room for the new?  

     Do you need to stop your world for a pause, before you plunge further in a misguided direction? Only you can answer this question. But I can help you with a healthy word of advice, if you decide you need such a season to rejuvenate. Remember, We don’t need cleaned oil. We need new oil…

    Maybe this BEAM (article) has not answered your questions but has only confirmed to you that you have questions, you need to answer,before you go further. If so, then it has served its purpose.

    May God help you make the course corrections you need; to have a happy, productive and fulfilled life.!

   ”Founder’s Day originated from a proclamation by the Untited States Continental Congress on October 11, 1782, in response to Great Britain’s expected military defeat in the American Revolutionary War. The war did not formally end until Congress ratified the Treaty of Paris on January 14, 1784.  The purpose of the proclamation was essentially to thank God for America’s good fortune in the Revolutionary War.  ”

By the United States in Congress assembled.

PROCLAMATION.***

IT being the indispensable duty of all Nations, not only to offer up their supplications to ALMIGHTY GOD, the giver of all good, for his gracious assistance in a time of distress, but also in a solemn and public manner to give him praise for his goodness in general, and especially for great and signal interpositions of his providence in their behalf: Therefore the United States in Congress assembled, taking into their consideration the many instances of divine goodness to these States, in the course of the important conflict in which they have been so long engaged; the present happy and promising state of public affairs; and the events of the war, in the course of the year now drawing to a close; particularly the harmony of the public Councils, which is so necessary to the success of the public cause; the perfect union and good understanding which has hitherto subsisted between them and their Allies, notwithstanding the artful and unwearied attempts of the common enemy to divide them; the success of the arms of the United States, and those of their Allies, and the acknowledgment of their independence by another European power, whose friendship and commerce must be of great and lasting advantage to these States:—– Do hereby recommend to the inhabitants of these States in general, to observe, and request the several States to interpose their authority in appointing and commanding the observation of THURSDAY the twenty-eight day of NOVEMBER next, as a day of solemn THANKSGIVING to GOD for all his mercies: and they do further recommend to all ranks, to testify to their gratitude to GOD for his goodness, by a cheerful obedience of his laws, and by promoting, each in his station, and by his influence, the practice of true and undefiled religion, which is the great foundation of public prosperity and national happiness.

Done in Congress, at Philadelphia, the eleventh day of October, in the year of our LORD one thousand seven hundred and eighty-two, and of our Sovereignty and Independence, the seventh.

John Hanson, President.

Charles Thomson, Secretary.

The heart of this Proclamation is well worth remembering.  The Spirit of which would benefit our land, if we would return to it today!

Tim Carter

 credit: Wikipedia; for this data

     One beautiful thing about being outside in the south in the spring and summer is the air that is full of fragrances.  Gardenias, Jasmine, Magnolia, Roses, and most certainly Honeysuckle. In many places, You can drive down the street and the smell of Honeysuckle waft through the window to greet you.

     In the same way, as you can smell the honeysuckle in the summer air, before you know exactly where it is; sensing the Spirit of God is like that.  In fact, The Spirit of God enlivens the senses, especially our senses to perceive Him.  This is misunderstood by those who treat this as only a mental task. God’s predominant interest in us is not intellectual. His greatest desire is not that we figure Him out. He wants to be known by us. He wants to be experienced and enjoyed by us. His goal for us, is a relationship with Him. In the same way that a parent wants a relationship with their children.

     God wants intimacy with us. That is what the whole message of Jesus was about. God does not choose to relate to us, through forced companionship. He relates to us, through our will-full offering. He wants us to want Him, just as He wants fellowship with us. This knowledge should fill us with gratitude.   Gratitude that God wants to know us and be present with us, through His Spirit. Let’s be thankful that God is relentless in His love for us—ever-pursuing, ever-present, and ever-guiding.

     Knowing God is like a kinetic flow. It is always a moving relationship. God’s Spirit is always the same but You will never be the same, after giving your life to Him. Though He is absolutely reliable. He is always moving, always creating and ever flowing. A genuine relationship with God is anything but boring. A relationship with God moves with more currents than the wind and with more power than imagination.

      Most times the greatest obstacles to the unimaginable beauty of a life united with God are those we allow, in ourselves. Our willingness to be closer to Him is often the greatest challenge to the full flowing of God in our lives. Because of this, our greatest task is not just to find God; but more-so to locate and eliminate all the barriers within ourselves that we have built against His Spirit.

     The best place to find the secrets of your own heart is to find the secrets of the heart of Jesus, to unlock them. Jesus is named in the scriptures as; The Pearl Above Price. He showed us that the secret to the greatest freedom is the greatest service and He demonstrated this principle, with His life.

     We want to come after Jesus in heaven but We do not understand heaven. It is not a place. It is a dimension. That’s why we can know the kingdom of heaven now. God wants us to dwell there even now. That is why the kingdom of heaven can be in you, in this life. Jesus wants to acquaint you with heaven here. Then death is but a passage deeper into a dimension you already know. That is why it is promised “Christ in you is the hope of glory.”

     God promises to reward us if we seek Him, because He wants to be found by us. He desires us to cultivate a relationship with Him.  There is a ready supply of good, right, uplifting regeneration available to us at all times, if we will make ourselves available to God.

     The challenge of availability is always mine. Am I truly available to God? I can never get deeper into God than I let Him into me. You may want to read that last statement again, if you want a deeper relationship with God, yourself.

     God broods and woos men to higher, nobler thinking. Just as the wheel steers the ship; so God’s Spirit directs our lives, if we let Him.  As surely as electricity lights up the room when u plug into active current.  God’s Spirit will fill up the room of your heart when you plug into Him!

     When my daughter was a little girl, she could tell when I was tuned into Jesus and when I wasn’t. The fruits of the Holy Spirit or the absence thereof are very evident to those around us. TeNae would say in her little girl voice, when she could tell that I wasn’t listening to God; “Plug in to Jesus, Daddy.” That was great advice then. And it is still great advice today and every day.

     God’s Wisdom is like a deep well ever available in your own back yard; it yours personally & plentifully when you access it.  God shares His heart with those who share their heart with Him. May you experience His heart now and begin to walk in the dimension (Kingdom) of Heaven.

     Oh by the way, if you ever come down south in the spring; you must let me show you how to drink the nectar from the honeysuckle flower.

Tim on a spring day!

     I teach Shotokan karate. Many aspects are similar to other karate styles. But certain elements are very unique. One unique part of teaching Shotokan is the emphasis of basics. Instead of teaching new students hundreds of techniques, I teach them a few basics in great detail, hundreds of times. The emphasis of these basic techniques may not originally seem to make them better but long-term, it greatly improves the strength of their karate. Selling is like this in many ways. The more one learns to focus on essential basics, the better the eventual skills will be.

     So here are some basics that will help you improve your game, whether you are beginner or pro.

     1- Never forget that selling is not about you. Sales is about your customer. Try your customer’s shoes on. When does your customer want you to call? Would your customer prefer to be contacted by e-mail or phone? What does your customer want from you? Try this kind playing this kind of mindset and you will find your sales increasing.

     2 – Every day remind yourself to ask lots of questions. Every customer remind yourself to ask lots of questions. - Never forget to ask. Never forget to listen. Make sure you ask. Make sure you listen.

     3-  Is there a call you don’t want to make? Make that call today. Is there a client you are afraid to talk to? Make them your first order of business. Make the phone your friend. The worst call not to make is the one you don’t want to.

    4-  We all know that closing is necessary for any sales endeavor to succeed. That is certainly no secret. But what seems to elude most rep.s is that closing should not be some big finale. It should be a normal part of the process and not some high pressure climax. Learn to make closing a natural event. It should not be a drum rolling event. Just the next natural step, in the flow of the sale.

       5- Keep a record of activity-Record phone calls & visits-This is powerful info later & a good tool 2 help u grow. Make notes about what you do and how you do it and review them periodically to monitor your own habits.

     6- Don’t try to be everything to everybody. Focused is better. Spreading yourself too thin makes u ineffective. While trying to be all you can be is important. Trying to do everything is not only impossible but frustrating and disabling. Learn to stick within the framework of achievable objectives. Try to do all you can but to realize when you are being pulled in too many directions. Better are you to do a few things well, than everything poorly.

     7- Reply to people right away. Your promptness and courtesy can win you business. That bears repeating… Reply to people right away. Your promptness and courtesy can win you business.

     8- Focus on making a friend, more than a client. Make it a habit to do what’s right for people, Word gets around. When your true motive is the well-being of your prospect, it is a powerful motivator. People can not only see that you are the real deal. They can sense it….. When you care about your customers legitimately; you convey a strong persona that will win you business. 

     9- #Sales – Be loose. Be light. Don’t sweat the small stuff. And its all small stuff. Don’t take things too seriously. Don’t worry. Be happy. Look at the below diagram. This is not a ridiculous plan, as it might seem on the surface.  A relaxed mindset will help you sell more. If you are comfortable in your own skin, your customers will be more comfortable around you. If you are overwhelmed with problems, you can not effectively sell. Learn to be more content in your mindset and you will sell more.

     10- Don’t forget to Plan. Problems can often be avoided by foresight-Plan your work and appointments in advance. The sales dimension is full of enough unexpected challenges, without having to face ones that can be avoided. 

     Post these 10 points somewhere that you will see them for the next 30 days and work on applying them to your sales context. Let me know how this sales refresher course helps!

Tim’s logos for years…. A good Basic… Very Fitting for this article.

     I have learned to be respectful and tolerant of many belief systems and people of many persuasions but I try never to forget, to share Christ. If my life has a secret, He is it. And often, when I want to help others; there is nothing more plainly good for me to share with them, than my Savior.

Jesus says; Let my little children come unto Me.

     I really am a rough and tumble guy. I have been through a lot. At 14 I started in reform school. I have sunk to the depths of the bottom of a bottle and have been known for years, as a karate fighter. {I also have done a lot of good} But; I am certainly no creme puff. …. Yet, through the course of my life, I have developed one awesome friendship that has helped me through myriad’s of challenges and difficulties, I have faced. … This friendship is My relationship with Jesus. I have found that Knowing Jesus is like having a psychiatrist-healer-counselor-dynamic friend-great leader & inspirational coach move in, on The Inside of You!

     Many problems that should have destroyed me have only served to make me stronger because of the dynamics of this friendship. People followed Christ when He was on earth because they were drawn to Him. I have found that it is the same today in the Spirit. I never lead people to Him by intellectual persuasion but frequently share Him with people; who need companionship and a devoted friend.

      I have learned that even when people don’t like religion; they often find it refreshing 2 B around someone who has a clear relationship with Jesus. If that person who knows Jesus is Courteous‬ and respectful of the other person’s beliefs and experience, also.

     People get so confused about religion.. And I understand. He is presented so poorly and crassly often, by His so-called followers. I have found that sharing Him is really honest and simple. I tell other hungry souls that if they want to experience Him, try letting Him in their life by invitation. Then, as He leads. We follow.

      I have found that Knowing Christ is like having a spring, A living River, A babbling brook springing up inside of you with fresh life and vitality. (Jn. 7:38) I did not get to walk with Jesus in his physical, earthly life. But the neat thing about why He came; is that one of His primary promises is to walk with me (& You), through the Spirit he sent to fill us. And He promises to do this in all times and in all places.

     Sometimes it causes me persecution to be so vocal with my thoughts about Christ but I must be faithful if I love Him and serve Him. The rewards of Jesus being pleased with me are worth the challenges that following Him sometimes bring.

    Religion is ok. There are multitudes of varieties and convictions. But life with Christ is not religion. Maybe this will free some of you from the dogma’s & traditions that hold you captive. [This is a large part of why, I am a Quaker]. I don’t call myself a Christian for any other reason than I belong to Christ; not because I am required by some liturgy or denomination.

     Studying the life of Christ absolutely shakes me with the power and beauty of the best way to live. There is nothing higher for a human soul to achieve than the nature that Jesus modeled for us in His life. You know it is the heart of Jesus that attracts me to Christianity, not religious ceremonies or observances.

     Knowing Jesus brings me much happiness and peace. I recommend Him for any of you, who are looking for direction, serenity and purpose.

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. [Rev. 3:20]

Tim – a.k.a. “Slam”

The Grinch Uses The SeedCorn -

     A few season’s ago, a movie came out as a fully animated feature starring Jim Carrey based on the Dr. Seuss Classic; “How the Grinch stole Christmas.” This was hilarious and full of cartoon fun. But behind many of the imaginative scenes were great nuggets of beauty and truth.

     It is sadly true that there are many in our world who seem to get some kind of satisfaction, from taking the joy of others. This was the case with The Grinch. He felt that by taking the joyous occasion of Christmas from Who’ville that he could remove the joy from their heart. But he discovered that while he could take the celebration away; he could not remove the joy from people, in who’s hearts it lived no matter the circumstance.

      The person that this horrible plan of evil hurt the most was the Grinch himself. And this is the truth in real life. When we try to take the happiness away from others, our greatest accomplishment is removing it from ourselves.

     There was a book in the 70′s that resulted in a movie, in which Yul Brynner starred. This book was “The Ultimate Warrior.” I read the book and I watched the movie. In this classic, the movie pictured an apocalyptic scene in which there was very little hope for continued survival on earth. The crisis event in the movie and the thing that doomed society was someone eating the seeds to grow new crops. Seeds that could have lead to the continuation and replenishment of life on earth.

     Evil is like that. It does not contribute. It only takes. Described in a word, it is selfishness. And Selfishness does not create or expand. It hoards and contracts. Holding on to the elements of life can actually cause them to become so slippery, you can not attain them, hold on to them, nor grow them.

     So in a way, the greatest danger to our world is we, ourselves. By seeking selfish acquisition, instead of human benevolence and service; we can undermine our society and defeat ourselves. So what is my point? It is the lesson of G.U.T.S. #34.  Do not be a Grinch and use the seed corn. Instead, Be a gardener. Be a cultivator and a preserver. Grow the seeds, before you try to use them and take from them. Don’t use; the Seed-corn. Plant it. Cultivate it. Water it. Pluck the weeds away from it. Give more to life, than you take away from it.

     In the day’s of early American history; there was an air of fatalism that prevailed much in people’s minds. Many thought that the world would soon end and that there was little hope for a future. In light of this pessimistic expectation, Johnny Appleseed was asked what he would do, if he knew for sure that tomorrow the world would end. He paused and then answered simply; “Today, I would still plant my apple-seed.”  —- That is the gift of faith. To plant seeds of hope, when those around us declare there is no use.

     Our Ultimate War as human beings may be with ourselves. If we can learn to give more than we take; we may have a chance. If not, we may be doomed to the dismal path described in Yul Brynner’s movie.

      It was said best by the greatest teacher in all of human history. “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jesus

     In giving our lives away, we may find that we indeed find them.

“Slam” a.k.a. Tim G Carter

Reblogged from gutsisthekey:

Reblogged from gutsisthekey:

     Often I think I would reach a wider audience, if I did not insist on writing on spiritual topics; in addition to my sales training efforts. But alas, I have to.. I can no more not write on spiritual things, than a frog can be healthy and stop jumping. It is who I am and what I have to do.

      Which brings me to the essence of tonight’s BEAM; My life = A Spiritual Mission. / What do I mean by this and why would it be important to you? The following thoughts are designed to answer those two questions.

     One of the reasons why I believe that churches are typically in poor attendance today and spiritual matters seem to be waning in the United States is the lack of the genuine. I know for sure, that if you discover the reality of the spiritual dynamic; it must radically influence your life.  - The spiritual dimension does not seem to greatly influence a lot of people today. So, I guess the inescapable conclusion is that many have not really discovered the spiritual dimension, of life.

     What do I mean by radical influence. Well I write this as the finale of American Idol is on TV; because this article is more important to me,tonight. [I am not saying that anyone should have missed American Idol. That is not my point.] I am just saying that if the spiritual realm has meaningfully impacted your life; there will be clear evidences.

     For me; my make-up is as follows. I live in a body. I have a mind. But I am a spirit. A being whose luminosity exceeds the material world. A being whose origins exist in The Almighty. A soul whose principle life can not be defined only by physical or mental reality.

      For me that identity is further refined by a relationship with Jesus. And that relationship adds value, guidance, moral structure and behavioral impact to this spiritual make-up. I respect others, of other opinions but gladly share Christ with those who need spiritual revelation and discovery.

Jesus says; Let my little children come unto Me.

     The way that this spiritual conviction becomes a spiritual mission for me is the way that God offers to indwell us. And He keeps that promise in my life. It is Indescribable, how God can be Above us sovereign-ly and yet in us completely but if we yield willingly, it can be true. It is for me.

     Yes, I too have doubts and fears. It is just that they are tendered and healed by the touch of the Divine. Sometimes when I have my greatest doubts is exactly when God Amazes me with His guiding wisdom and flows through me with His encouraging Spirit. It was in one such moment recently that I heard The Master whisper to me: “You have planted many good seeds.” And this sweet assurance fills me with the hope that because of The Holy Spirit, I make a difference. In fact that is what GutsIsTheKey.com is all about. Me, fulfilling my Spiritual mission and trying to make a difference in the lives of others.

     Christ painted the picture of the ultimate life in the way He lived; serving God & serving others before self. His life was the perfect example of spiritual mission. He proved that The only thing that can defeat you, if you will not stay down is nothing…. Because even in death we can prevail with courage. The life of Jesus and many other great servants of God and man have proved this through the course of history.

     One thing that prevents people from discovering and adopting their own spiritual mission is that they can not see how it will turn out. Good Vision can not always see the end of the path but it can see the next step. Spiritual mission does not always mean that you see the whole picture but that you have enough faith, to make the next stroke of your brush mean something.

We should not be afraid to take the next stroke, just because we can not see how the work will turn out.

     If we see this spiritual mission as the grand work of art, that God means for us to see it as; we will aim to paint our most beautiful creation with the brush strokes of life. My sister Detra was the greatest artist I have ever known. Yet, in comparison to the greatness of her work; she was not greatly known. Yet her work grandly changed me and her daring heart, ever willing to design, create and invent was indomitable. Your greatest dream should be to be all u can possibly be and if it is a good dream; you will translate it into action, like Detra did. In the end of life, it may be all that matters.

My precious sister Detra, smiling as she fought a fatal bout with cancer.

     I remember that in Detra’s demise in her fight with cancer, she held her head regally high. She demonstrated to me her sense of spiritual mission, even in the end of life. Courage does not always know if it is going to win but if it believes the cause is worthy and the timing right; it fights anyway. She proved this to me and I intend to keep the heart of her lesson, in my own life.

     But you may say, of course you have this spiritual mission; you have been trained in the Bible and Theology. Ahhhh! But my friend, I did not discover the realness of God in this way alone. My Quaker faith makes a primary tenet the availability of God to all and the willingness of God to reveal Himself equally to all, who seek and ask. God offers a holy searchlight to His messengers to B able see the truth of a situation when it is empirically unknowable. He can fill you with a knowing that is beyond your capacity to figure out. I see this wisdom, because He lovingly gives this Spiritual Mission to my hungry heart.

I love God so.

Tim G. Carter – aka “Slam”