Vacations are wonderful! There’s something exhilarating about getting away, leaving the routine, responsibilities, and daily stresses behind to enjoy new experiences and surroundings. Being away offers a break from phones, faxes, e-mails, palm pilots, and other interruptions. It’s the time I set aside to explore, read, relax, to make easy decisions and to usually eat more then is required. The problem with vacations is they are never long enough and we don’t take them as often as we should.

We can take shorter breaks besides vacations. Sometimes a day or overnight can be just the divergence I need to clear my head, to look at life from a new perspective, or to experience something different. Taking time out from my usual schedule, whether it’s for sightseeing, to visit with out of town friends, or to play, is a reward I give myself. I am giving myself permission to feel unencumbered and non-productive for a short period of time.

There is, however, irony to this scenario. No matter where I go, regardless for how long, I still experience an overwhelming sense of relief and comfort each time I return to my community, my street, my driveway and my house. When I see that place and the space and settle into the space that is home I am so grateful. Whether I’ve traveled by car or by plane, from a nearby location or from a long distance, as I enter my home I feel the warmth and comfort of familiar surroundings. The feeling of being home again is one of reassurance and safety.

The magic to all of this is to thoroughly enjoy where you are at any given time. When on vacation, feel the excitement of new places and enjoy and celebrate them with gratitude. When it’s time to return home be equally grateful that you have a place that is yours. When I get into my bed after being away, place my head on my pillow, pull the covers up and over me and drift into sleep, I know there is no place like home!

Knowing who you are is vital to your success. Susan Brown’s blog encourages you to have fun while you do your self-discovery work. As a bonus, she provides links to three FREE tests that help you APPRECIATE and USE your unique qualities and brilliance.

…I love taking the kind of tests that reveal more about me and I think you feel the same about yourself.  Why?

TESTS offer a CLEARER PERSPECTIVE of you! 

Tests help UNLOCK the MYSTERY of YOU.

They provide invaluable information as to WHY YOU INTERPRET LIFE  the way you do; the  BEST WAYS TO LEARN; what KIND OF WORK or career best suits you; how to OPTIMIZE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS and create  AUTHENTIC HAPPINESS to name a few.

Tests give you clues as to why you excel, fail or struggle  with  things and people –  in ALL AREAS of your life.

The FREE tests below will help you APPRECIATE and USE the uniqueness and brilliance of you!

I’ve selected three tests that offer information to help you ELEVATE YOUR LIFE.   Have fun with the results and keep in mind:   Angels fly because they take themselves lightly. When we do the same we allow our spirits to soar.— Anonymous

[ CLICK to Read More ]

Ever wonder if there will ever be time for just you? As women we manage many tasks, wear many hats, and are involved in a multitude of activities. There are days when the day ends and I keep going. Finally, when I have the opportunity to do something just for me, I’m too tired to think about it. Something is wrong with this picture!

I challenge you to pick up a women’s magazine that doesn’t address the value of making time for ourselves. There are ads inviting and encouraging us to treat ourselves to a day at the spa, to take a long, luxurious bath with candles while listening to soothing music, to visit the beach, or to go on a trip designed for pleasure and not business. I wonder, how many women REALLY take time to do the things we deserve. Do you?

For me the real issue is priorities. How can I fulfill the constant demands on my time, delegate or eliminate the things I do because I’ve always done them, and provide a window of time that is flexible and fulfilling just for me? What price do I pay on my mental and physical well-being by NOT putting “me” time on my list? The reality is if I don’t make myself a priority no one else will do it for me.

I once read that everything in life we create, promote or allow. If there is something that we don’t like, we have the choice to change it, because we are in the driver’s seat of our life’s journey. That being said, I’ve decided to take time to re-evaluate my schedule and re-prioritize my activities. I choose to feel good about myself, to be worthy of indulgences every now and then, and to eliminate the feelings of guilt when I say “no” to the world’s demands and “yes” to my own needs. I am making a commitment to take time for me. I encourage you to do the same.

Just finished being a guest of Colethea Jenkins BGE Radio show (that’s build, grow and enjoy). Such a great time. Thank you Colethea for the opportunity to share my business with your listening audience!

The program was recorded. CLICK HERE to listen

Build Grow and Enjoy Radio We Deliver Wellness www.blogtalkradio.com. Join Colethea and Working Diva Entrepreneur extraordinaire Mrs. Nancy Ploener as she speaks on a great opportunity for those looking to grow towards the future. It’s time to take control of your future www.buildgrowandenjoy.com.

While they seem the same, there is a huge difference between eyesight and vision. Eyesight is the ability to see what is; vision is the ability to see possibilities of what can be. There are many indicators in our world today the power of having vision. Today’s visions shape tomorrow’s opportunities. The strides we make now are the building blocks to what lies ahead. Remember those individuals who have devoted their lives to world peace, knowing that they may not live to see it’s reality. Look at those in the medical field who continue their research for cures and hold a vision of universal health.

What about educators who devote themselves to eliminating illiteracy? There will always be people committed to a better future because they have the vision to see what is invisible to others.

Successful people are colossal dreamers. They can imagine the future and visualize the outcome. They work daily toward their vision. Visionaries are steadfast in their beliefs and unstoppable in their pursuits. They don’t allow the environment, other people’s beliefs, or their own limitations hold them back from their dreams. Only when one ignores conventionalism can one achieve the unthinkable. Had I considered the continuous challenge of writing this column instead of believing in a vision of how my
experiences might help another, I may have questioned my ability to do so! Moving forward toward uncharted waters when you have faith in a vision for yourself or others creates future possibilities.

People living life by habit refer to life as “same old..same old.” People with vision acknowledge change, welcome progress, and expect great results because it’s what they expect of themselves.

We can’t move forward standing still. Napoleon Hill, author of “Think And Grow Rich” stated it best. “Cherish your visions and dreams as they are the children of your soul; the blueprints of your ultimate achievements.” I encourage you to go beyond the reality of what you see at this moment to your vision of what you wish for the future.

As I experience life I am reminded daily of those who enrich my journey, who support my ideas, and who encourage me to go for what I want. I feel blessed. When we choose to move away from our roots, which is more common today than in past years, the relationships we develop become “our extended family”. During times of joy and moments of challenge, I rely on my friends. They applaud, they listen, and they help. All I have to do is place a call, make a visit or ask for what I need!

Friendship is all about being there for one another. When a friend calls upon me I feel special knowing my ideas and my time are valued. Sharing experiences with friends makes events more memorable. Having a conversation that creates clarity when uncertain about an issue makes it easier to decide. Friendship has no time constraint and no limits. Years pass and yet friends have the ability to re-connect and re-establish their relationship in an instant. Distance is not a barrier to friendship. People move, jobs change, unexpected circumstances occur and friends can still remain friends. What a wonderful concept! In a rapidly changing world it’s reassuring to know that friendships can endure. Neither politics, the economy, or the weather can replace an enduring friendship.

Recently I received a call from a long-standing friend whose husband is not well. Although we don’t see one another often because of geographic limitations, she knew when I picked up the phone that she could count on me to listen and support her as she struggles through a stressful time. Frequently friends just need a listening ear, a caring heart, and warm reassurance. Sometimes a friend is excited to share good fortune. There are times when a conversation or visit with a close friend is just the prescription we need when feeling out of sorts. Each of us has a never ending capacity to love and to care. We have unlimited opportunities to be supportive wherever and whenever someone needs us. Having friends and being a friend are priceless gifts we give to each other. Call or visit someone today.

These Joy of Connecting networking events are coming up in March. Find one near you and start connecting!

Atlanta Journal Constitution article:  Networking is critical to one’s success.  In good times and bad, it’s the ties that bind.  www.Google.com -  Check out networking associations and organizations – there are tens of thousands available!  Tired of the same ‘ole networking chatter?  Wish you could be somewhere else?  Is anyone listening to what you have to say?  Does anyone care?

With 29+ years of networking experiences to draw from, it’s obvious to me that for most individuals networking is either ‘tell and sell’ or ‘hit and run’!  The race to the finish line seems to be about who can engage in small talk faster and collect the most business cards.  Recognizing that females differ in the way they network, The Joy of Connecting was created to provide a platform for professional women to meet, to socialize, to build relationships AND foster business without the harried/impersonal format that’s most familiar at mixed gender events.  Women love to connect with one another and do so naturally.  Just recently I received several testimonial/endorsement letters from JOC participants and thought – why not let you hear about The Joy of Connecting from women who value their experience and were open to sharing their thoughts with others?

Testimonials:

Bonnie, as a first timer at a JOC event, I immediately felt at home and welcomed. Every single female in the room was open, positive, and encouraging! It was a safe place to be yourself and share with other likeminded women. The evening was organized, well ran, and respected everyone’s time! Yasmeen Lord, Designer – By Yaz – Atlanta, GA

I had to share a few words to describe my first Joy of Connecting event: welcoming, relaxed, educational, positive, and productive. We first enjoyed a delicious meal and got acquainted simply as individual women, without performing pitches or “commercials.” Then we followed a structured format to share information about our products or services with the group in a natural way which reflected our genuine personality and sincerity. At the program’s conclusion we freely mixed and mingled to ask questions, try free samples, and follow up on interest. A few sales were made on the spot. A special treat is the inclusion of artists who sometimes share their talents, such as a wonderful song or fabulous fashion piece. The room was brimming with mutual support, encouragement and reciprocity. There’s no doubt in my mind that each one of us left feeling very “connected” to other participants and were eager to attend the next JOC. Joanna Boyce, Ardyss, Int’l – Licensee for Lawrenceville, GA

I always immediately know it when I’ve connected with positive people.  An entrepreneur since 2005, last night’s Joy of Connecting business networking forum was the best meeting of its kind that I have ever attended! From the extraordinary ambiance to the fantastic food ~ this room filled with empowered women was delightful in manifold ways. The strength, support and resourcefulness shared promises to yield great benefits to my business and my life. So as I take another whiff of Kathey M’s “Good Soap” ~ I am reminded of the joys of connecting! Thanks Bonnie ~ you rock! Val McLeod, Chief Facilitator – Conversations with V (Savannah, GA)

My experience of attending The Joy of Connecting event in February 2012 has impacted my business tremendously. The diversity and versatility of every leading lady in attendance was truly rewarding in every aspect of business growth. I have attended countless seminars over the years and have to admit that JOC is one of the most effective and powerful of them all. The beautiful angel and founder of JOC, Ms. Bonnie Ross-Parker is like a magnet of energy and compassion in connecting women business owners. I am proud to be a lifetime member of JOC and will continue to support and encourage every new or veteran business owner to attend. I promise every woman will leave there on a natural high of success…like I did. Thank you Ms. Bonnie for embracing me with your gracious and elegant spirit. I am definitely a certified JOC supporter! Pebbles, Owner of  Closet Talk Consignment Lounge Smyrna, GA

“Those who have learned the power of sincere and selfless contribution experience life’s deepest joy: true fulfillment” (Anthony Robbins). When I think about all the “things” that are in my life it’s clear that materialism is no substitute for connecting one’s self with a worthy cause, participating with people who share the same vision and values, or doing something for someone without any expectations in return. The feeling of fullness because your heart place is alive with energy and purpose is immeasurable.

Your resistance to change, negativism and unrewarding work are no substitute for doing something about which you are passionate. Fulfillment can be experienced through volunteerism, connection with your spiritual self, working toward a far-reaching goal, being someone’s support or mentor, or any activity that elevates your sense of self. It’s worth both time and energy to search for and find that vehicle or outlet which reflects your uniqueness and values your participation.

Denis Waitley says, “Personal satisfaction is the most important ingredient of success.” Feeling satisfied and knowing that who you are and what you do contributes to the well-being of people and community is powerful. Fulfillment is not the job you perform or the task you accomplish. It is how you feel about yourself because of the difference “being you” makes! Here is the question. “Where are you in your life’s experiences as it relates to feeling fulfilled?” Are you connected to something bigger than you? Are you engaged in tasks that are rewarding? Are you stretching your mind to explore new possibilities? And more importantly, are you willing to consider other options that could take you to a place you’ve not yet been? Take time to expand your self awareness. Find answers to these difficult questions.

Congratulate yourself if you are leading a fulfilling life. Give yourself permission to seek more rewarding avenues if you’re not. In either case, life is a journey. It’s your journey. What you do and accomplish in this lifetime and who you share your life with are your choices. Remember, you and your contribution matter!

The following message is taped over my desk. It was given to me by a friend. “If you knew where the treasure is would you enjoy the journey as much, or, would you miss things along the way by focusing on the treasure?”

It’s been my experience that regardless of the outcome I anticipate, sometimes the fulfillment comes from implementing a plan rather than actually achieving the goal! Think about a time that you planned a surprise, arranged the details for a vacation, the years you were in college to earn a degree, overcame a job loss, or spent weekends looking for the perfect home to purchase.

While every journey of value has its challenges, how meaningful would reaching the destination be if there were no stories or excitement related to the experience? A significant part of getting what you want is in the road taken to achieve it.

While intellectually this makes sense, if you are like me, I get impatient. When will my plans come together? How much longer must I wait to achieve the rewards I desire? Why is it that the closer I get to something I want, a challenge shows up creating a set back? Are road blocks treasures in disguise? Do we willingly learn life’s lessons or are the lessons we learn the result of our having to alter our course to reach our destination?

The reality is that there is no end to one’s journey. It simply continues day to day, as one experience follows another. The journey embraces the people who impact us, circumstances and changes we can’t control, the choices and decisions we make and the effect of those actions over time.

The road is comprised of trial and error, risks and opportunities, pleasure and disappointment. Through it all, we learn and grow as we move closer to our destination. I encourage you to be patient with yourself and the universe. Take time to experience your journey and enjoy the treasures along the way.