This is the 100th post at Monk at Work — woo hoo! I’m doing a contest for it… it’s unrelated to the main content of the post, though… details are at the bottom. It’s big, so don’t miss it.
At the risk of sounding like a Tim Ferriss groupie, I read a post of his recently that struck a chord. He was talking about eliminating negativity and complaints from our language and lives, and the power of using simple tools to increase our mindfulness of our patterns.
I did something similar a few years ago, where (if I remember correctly) I tried to stop myself from swearing. I wore a rubber band around my wrist, and anytime I let a taboo word pass my lips, I snapped the rubber band. It didn’t draw blood or anything, but it sure brought my pattern to a halt quick!
Tim’s post, though, talked about eliminating complaining. You wear a wristband (I’m using a LiveStrong wristband I found), and if you complain about anything, you have to switch it to the other wrist (of course, you don’t get the pain element of a rubber band snap, but the hassle is effective enough as an awareness-builder, so far). The standard duration of a Project like this is 21 days, but if you have a particularly troublesome time with it, feel free to extend it to 30 days or more.
A cool twist: You don’t have to switch the wristband if you come up with a positive solution to the situation you’re noticing.
Example: If I say, “I emailed so-and-so two days ago, and I haven’t heard back from them yet… what a deadbeat,” then I’d have to switch the band. But if I said, “I emailed so-and-so two days ago, and I haven’t heard back from them yet… next time, I’ll have to specify that I need a response in 48 hours, so I don’t end up waiting like this,” then I’m bringing to my attention that I can respond differently.
I like this project, because it trains you to think proactively. I’m already noticing that I’m remaining more positive in general, and that I’m more mindful of my unproductive patterns, like speaking of displeasing situations that I either have no control over, or could do something about but haven’t chosen to. It’s forcing me to “put up or shut up”, as they say.
So, what’s your vice?
Is it negativity, complaining, or playing the victim? Is it perfectionism, procrastination, or doubting yourself? Do you defer to others instead of standing up for what you want, or are you chronically nice?
Any of these would be good grounds to start a personal Project. Make your commitment, put on your wristband, and watch your awareness level climb!
And now, for the contest…
This is my 100th post on Monk at Work, which makes it somewhat of a celebration! And celebrations like this need a contest…
My “Create a Business People Love” workshop needs a new name (“CPBL” is great for a tagline, but it needs a new title). Submit your suggestion in the comment box, and if a suggestion comes along that’s stellar, I’ll choose a winner — the winner gets to attend the next course (which begins October 25) for free (that’s an $1160 prize!).
Time to put on those creative thinking caps!
Leave your suggestion in the comment box, and while you’re at it, tell us what Project you’re going to take on.
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Image by C O M M I T on Flickr, via Creative Commons license.
And thanks to all those who commented on the previous post so far: Brooke, Biggs
September 21, 2007, 12:42 pm
Hey Adam,
Congratulations on your 100th post! I think that’s very cool. I’ve always been a fan of your writing and to see it enjoy such longevity (going all the way back to the AK.com days) is an admirable accomplishment.
I’ll have a think about your workshop name as well. Hmmm…what’s the want? OK, off to put on my thinking cap. :)
September 21, 2007, 1:11 pm
Congrats on your 100th post, Adam! For ‘only’ 100 posts, you’ve achieved remarkable recognition and created quite a nice community. Looking forward to whatever’s ‘next’ for you!
For CBPL, some ideas, more later maybe:
Business IS Love
BusinessLove
BizLove
Joy of Business
BizJoy
“Heart” Your Business
Re a Project:
There are times when one might rightly call me “kvetch” — a complainer. I like the idea of eliminating complaining that is pointless. So I’m going to wear my purple Love Your Body band, and switch wrists when I catch myself complaining without some idea of what I can do about the situation.
There is one exception: I see a difference between complaining just to have something to say, and expressing something that’s got an emotional charge and needs to be witnessed, vented or otherwise released. Stifling the latter can be unhealthy; it’s the former, and the negative energy around it, I’d love to minimize.
Thanks for a great idea - perfectly times as I and Jews around the world begin Yom Kippur, a time for making personal changes for the coming year. Wishing my fellow celebrants an easy fast, and all of us blessings of health, joy, and peace.
AmpleHugs, -Anne
September 21, 2007, 1:46 pm
When is the deadline for this contest?
September 21, 2007, 1:57 pm
Opps, I hit enter before I finished my comment. I’m working on my ‘body of work’ project. I’ve got podcasts, video and writing that is happening now. The purpose? To discover more about what I love to discover.
September 21, 2007, 2:17 pm
Congratulations on your 100th post Adam - quite a milestone.
My mind’s stumped on workshop titles… but if I get woken in the middle of the night by my unconscious mind telling me the answer I’ll let you know! Joanna
September 21, 2007, 2:40 pm
I’m with you about tending to be proactive instead of a complainer. That’s why I teach…it keeps my inner observer alert. Whenever I don’t practice what I preach, my observer notices and gently tells me about it. And it is gentle. It says things like, “Okay, what do you need and how can I give it to you?” That doesn’t mean I don’t take action when there’s something I can do about a situation, it just means I act from a centered place.
It’s not about perfection, it’s about having ideals to guide us.
September 21, 2007, 3:00 pm
PS Congratulations. Not just on your 100th post, but for the quality of your posts and the community you’ve built.
September 21, 2007, 3:38 pm
Hi Adam! I love the intention of your business! Congratulations on your success so far! The fact that this is only your 100th post makes me realise that I can do this too!
My intention is similar, but I do it through Dream Insights and Channelling Poetry (my own phrase), i.e. I help people understand what their intuition is trying to tell them through their dreams, thereby fast-tracking their true purpose, intentions, success, whatever. I am only just starting to set myself up now.
Love the wristband idea…good tool for practising “Living Above the Line”; you know the “Responsibility” thing! I’m going to do it, too.
First thing that comes into mind as a new name for CBPL = “Why Just Have a Business When You Could Have People Falling Over Each Other to Get in Your Door!” If a better one comes to me in the next 24 hrs, I’ll post again.
Thanks again for just being you out there in this business world, and I’m glad my friend sent me your link…Just out of interest, I’m in New Zealand. Looking forward to a fruitful connection. Kei konei ra! Till next time! :)
September 21, 2007, 6:39 pm
Hip-Hip, Hoo-Ray, Adam! So exciting. Congratulations!
September 21, 2007, 9:26 pm
The Dynamic Attraction Program - How to have your business become a shining star that attracts new business no matter how many similar lights are shining in your Universal Market.
September 22, 2007, 3:51 am
Congratulations on your 100th post.
Your writing is so inspiring.
All I can think of is:
Awaken the evangelist in your customer.
September 22, 2007, 11:53 am
100th post! woo-hoo! right on, brother.
BPL- a business that people love - I actually like that title. Why do you want to change it?
September 22, 2007, 4:54 pm
Congratulations, Adam, for all of the reasons cited above.
As to the course name, what is the problem you are solving and for whom?
September 22, 2007, 7:26 pm
Hey Kayce — I took a break for a day to brainstorm some ideas and I have to say that I came right back to ….. drum roll, please!…. “Create a Business People Love”.
Do you feel the name isn’t working?
Your existing title clearly articulates the key benefit of the workshop. It also seems to encapsulate who you are, Adam, and why I (among many) am so attracted to you (besides the fact that you’re really handsome!), your message, and what you offer the world.
As I write this, I see that Mark Silver feels similarly…..
September 22, 2007, 8:48 pm
Here’s another one:
Business Patronage
AmpleHugs, Anne
September 22, 2007, 8:50 pm
Hi Adam,
Your signature story is about a Clark Kent-type business. The need (as I see it) is for a business owner to become comfortable being Superman/woman instead. Become the hero, the champion their customers need and want. Maybe the title needs to reflect the superhero metaphor used in the copy. The want (again, my opinion) is a thriving business but one run with the superhero inside each of us.
At any rate, here’s what my brain spewed forth…
1. Putting on the Cape: Leaving the Phone Booth and Creating A Business That People Love, Respect, and Depend On
2. Superhero Service: Leaving the Phone Booth and Creating A Business That People Love, Respect, and Depend On
Variations…
3. Putting On The Cape: Creating a Business That Serves Customers Like a Superhero
4. Superhero Service: Transforming Your Mild-Mannered Business Into One That People Love Barry
September 22, 2007, 10:45 pm
Adam, I’ve thought about this for a couple of days now, and as much as I’d like to win the contest, I do think that your original title, “Create a business people love” is a good title - it is clear and concise. But here are a few more options to stir the pot.
Am I In A Business? I Love It Here.
The Creative Entrepreneur
This can’t be business, I love it too much
Turn your business into a Success Magnet.
Heart filled business: A Success Magnet
Magnetize Your clients
Clearing the path for success
Heart Centered Entrepreneurship - Create a business people love
September 22, 2007, 11:29 pm
I, too, like your present title. I vote against anything that doesn’t have the word love, or the equivalent,in it.
September 23, 2007, 12:57 am
Hi Adam,
I have a profound respect for everything you write and to me seem to stand for. Because I think any business is really your brand I came up with these for you.
1. Love Brands
2. Brand Loving
3. Loving Brands
4. Loving your Brand
Hope you like them and all the best. :) John
September 23, 2007, 11:34 am
Congratulations on your 100th post Adam!
And thanks for interviewing Dawud as part of BPL - I’m a whole lot closer to setting up a blog now!
It took a while for me to remember the first two words of the name ‘Create A Business People Love’, so I think it would be good to shorten it, or go for an alternative. So, some ideas:
A Business People Love
Loving Business
Client Attractors
Your Tribe Loves You (seems to reflect the posts here!)
Clients Who Come Back For More
Hope this helps, May
September 23, 2007, 2:59 pm
Ideal Customer Magnet: Create a business that people love
Great Client Magnet Program: Create a business that people love
Client Tractor Beam: Create a business that people love
Bring Them In: Create a business that people love
True Business: Create a business that people love
September 23, 2007, 6:51 pm
These are great, everyone — keep ‘em flowing!
Mark, et al., I suppose it doesn’t necessarily need a name change, I’ve just found that I call it “the BPL groups” more than anything, and to tell people about the “Bus-i-ness Peo-ple Love” groups, in all their six-syllable glory, just feels a bit unwieldy at times.
I’m not opposed to keeping it the same, or changing it, although at this point if I don’t change it, who do I award the prize to? :-)
September 24, 2007, 9:10 am
Hey Adam,
I really like Business People Love, too. Might be a little unwieldy but there’s something about the phrase that really resonates with me.
One spinoff to consider: Creating Products People love or Creating a Service People love.
I think using the term “love” in your memory tag or program name is a little provocative/audacious in a nice way. Plus it helps ideal customers self-select.
BTW, where do you get Live Strong bracelets, that’s pretty cool.
September 24, 2007, 2:00 pm
@ Judy… go to LiveStrong.org for a wristband.
Adam, many accolades to you! I am impressed that you’ve ONLY done 100 posts, you have blossomed a wonderful sangha here is such a short time.
I, too, prefer the original title for your seminar. But if you’re looking for more of a bite-size version, perhaps you would like, “Business from the Heart”. It only saves you one syllable, but “from the” sort of rolls together.
Anyway, much applause, friend.
Namaste, gayle
September 24, 2007, 2:44 pm
Adam,
Congratulations! 100 posts!! YAY!
I’ve gotta say, Creating a Business People Love captured me right away - how long did it take me to sign up? Two minutes? I also like the suggestions Judy made…products and services people love. Worked(s) for me!
September 24, 2007, 3:05 pm
Hey Kayce,
Sounds like we all love “Creating a Business People Love.” Of course, you should ultimately do what feels right to you and follow your heart.
As for picking a winner for the contest if you do decide to retain CBPL, why not simply draw from a hat?
Sending Love and Joy, Tshombe
September 25, 2007, 10:18 am
Hi Adam,
I agree with the others. I played around with the name for a while but it seemed perfect as it was.
“Create A Business People Love” BUT I sure would like to be put in the hat for the contest!
Congrats on the 100 posts and all the good work you have done!
Hugs, Judith
September 25, 2007, 10:28 am
I have to admit that when you first came up with the BPL name I thought: “Wow, he’s done it again- a great name! Clean design! And even great initials!” I was shocked that you thought you needed to change it…
You’ve gotten lots of feedback, I would just pick someone randomly if I were you.
It sure is making me happy to see how many people you are inspiring with your work.
September 25, 2007, 4:59 pm
Hi Everyone,
Well, it sure would be easier to not change the name, and at least the last half-dozen comments (plus a bunch from before) are all leaning towards keeping the name the same.
I’m going to be out of my office for the rest of the week (I’m the head chef at a retreat this weekend of about 200+ people), but when I get back in, I’ll make a final decision. If the name stays the same, I’ll put everyone’s name into a bag and draw a lucky winner.
Thanks for all your input and ideas!
September 25, 2007, 7:50 pm
Adam, like Mark and others, BPL seems nifty, but if you must change it how about Business Customers Love… BCL
Of course, that doesn’t solve the syllables problem… but it’s what popped into my mind when I read your contest post.
September 26, 2007, 6:55 am
Congratulations!
Every step is one towards growth and satisfaction - wonderful feelings!
As for a name for the course… “Heartfelt Business Strategies” comes to mind.
Wishing you many more success. Carmen
September 26, 2007, 10:46 am
Hi Adam,
Congratulations and thanks so much for your generosity in giving so much!
I like these:
-The Magnetic Business….Create a Business People Love OR
-The Attractive Business…Create a Business People Love OR
-Attracting from Your Heart in Business…Create a Business People Love OR
-The Heart-Centered Business..Create a Business People Love
Good Luck.
Blessings,
Kim Cavins
September 26, 2007, 10:49 am
here’s my take… first of all, congratulations on your 100th post!!! you’re an awesome example of loving your business. and, i agree - i like your original title.
Here’s some others as I was doodling around:
Service with a Smile: Loving Your Business
(that could be abbreviated to Service with a Smile and a logo showing a smiling face)
Prosperity Plus: Loving Your Business
(some sub-head about how you can grow your business just the way you want it and prosper as well, financially, spiritually, etc)
-if you like this, I’d be glad to work it over.
-you could call it p-squared (dont’ know where that came from)
I would like to see something about being able to love your business and support yourself at the same time. That way, it’s not just about building something others love - it’s about you loving it AND being able to live on it…
Strategies for Loving Your Business
(SLB - comes off the tongue easily for me)
September 26, 2007, 12:49 pm
Congrats on the 100th post… they say the journey of 1000 posts begins with 1 so you’re well on your way
I definitely see the dilemma… I agree with everyone that “Create a Business People Love” is a great tagline but definitely a mouthful when you refer to it often, as I’m sure you do! Plus I guess we all want to shorten things down to something catchy and easy… something to belong to… somehow initials just don’t do it… BPL
It seems that what we would get out of the sessions is somewhat a combination creating a business people love… and loving your business… rolled into one.
I was wondering what about the title BusinessLovers… seems to roll off the tongue and has an element of the “raving fans” feel.
BusinessLovers
Create a Business People Love
I was also thinking to maybe tie in the loving your business portion… because it’s said to be important to “love what you do”
BusinessLovers
Create a Business People Love
(and Start to Love Your Business!)
BusinessLovers
Create a Business People Love
(and Love Your Business!)
BusinessLovers
Create a Business People Love
(and Love Your Business Too!)
or something like that….
Hope this helps inspire something Nathan
September 26, 2007, 6:57 pm
Here’s another idea:
‘Business Beats’ with a Heart symbol??
October 1, 2007, 1:42 pm
I agree with many of the other posters, the name is great and what came to mind for an alternative name…Passionate Business, Creating a Business People Love.
October 1, 2007, 1:48 pm
Of course, as soon as I hit enter another alternative popped into my fogging brain. What about “Passionate Partnerships” with the same tag line?
October 3, 2007, 12:58 pm
Wow, what a contest… and with a result I’d never have expected.
I weighed all the comments and suggestions, and took it inside to consult my intuition (of course…), and felt that the best way to go is to keep it as “Create a Business People Love.”
So, I threw everyone’s name into a random picker, and Debbie Perkins of Pazon is the winner! Congratulations Debbie!
(For those of you who didn’t win, you’ve still got a day remaining to get in on the Early Registration Discount for the next course…)
And, my heart really lit up with Judy’s idea of using the CBPL and spinning off of it for future classes, like “Create a Product People Love”, which is an idea I’ve been incubating as well… so, Judy, when I come out with CPPL, you’re in.
Thanks, everyone… I hope your Projects are going well (mine is), and thanks for your creative input and your love.
(This was fun… I’m going to have to do contests more often…)
October 3, 2007, 4:47 pm
Wow, Adam.
Thank you very much.
Can’t wait to start the workshop.
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Monk at Work is Adam Kayce's website about webdesign, personal peace, and bringing your best work out to the world.
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