Are You Successful?

What defines success?

We discussed how there are various definitions for success and what to do to receive your success in 3 Must Do’s While Waiting on Your Success (click link).

I had a great conversation with one of the members of our community.  In our conversation, we discussed success.  One of the primary questions was - What is success?

Success

 

Many people associate success with a degree, having a nice job, how much money is in one’s bank account, house size, class of car, or wearing a certain style of clothing.

What are your desires?  What do you want out of life?  How do you define success?

We all have varying definitions of success, but the true definition of success is the attainment or accomplishment of one’s goals.  At the end of the day,

“You define what success means to you.”

 

Are you successful?

 

So you and only you can answer the question of whether you are successful or not.  We just discovered how success depends on the accomplishment of your goals.

What are your goals?

Annually, I set personal, professional, and spiritual goals for myself.  Also, my wife and I set goals for our family.  My most important goals have nothing to do with any of the things we discussed earlier.

Success to me is defined by two things:

1. Love for God.

2. Love for Family.

Please don’t get me wrong.  I want to be the best professional I can be.  I want to build wealth for my family.  I want to help others discover financial independence and develop wealth for their families.

However, I will never sacrifice these goals for the most important responsibilities in my life, which includes commitment to God and my family.

1. Love for God.  God is my Creator.  Without his creativity, I would not have any my gifts or abilities.  He gave me the greatest gift ever known to man by giving me His only Son.  So I will forever be loyal to the Calling of my Father in heaven.  As long as I am faithful to my God and His Son, I will always feel that I am living a successful life.

2. Love for Family.  I have been blessed with a beautiful family.  I have been placed on this earth to be a respectful and loving husband to my beautiful wife.  I have also been given the responsibility to be an example to my three boys.  As a father, I have been called to give life to my sons.  I don’t have a perfect family, by we are striving to follow the perfect love of God and do our best to support one another in our life’s journey.

It’s important to set individual goals.  Start today.  And start with those things that matter most to you.  Just remember, you define your own success.  Without goals, we will never know how successful we can be.

 

Question:  So, are you successful?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Preparing Our Children for Future Challenges

Over the last century, we have seen a rise in popularity with professional sports.  Professional athletes are making more and more money these days and enjoying luxuries that some professional athletes a century ago could never imagine.  It does spark a desire in many children’s heart to be a professional athlete.

Although many children have aspirations of living with these many luxuries, the real reason to let our children play sports has everything to do with sports being a great teacher.

I was reminded of this thought while watching and coaching my sons this past season.  I have played and promoted being active with some team sporting activity all my life, especially for children.  Team sports are great for teaching life lessons.

I fell in love with basketball as a child.  Nothing stopped my brother and I from playing ball.  No matter the weather conditions or our health at times, we would find a way to play basketball.  It may have been our own backyard, someone else’s backyard, a community center, school, or a church gym; we were going to work basketball into our schedule.

Basketball taught my brother and I many lessons.  We may have never played professional basketball, but we carried many of these lessons throughout life.  So let me share some of these life lessons.

Life Lessons Learned From Playing Team Sports

 

1. You won’t win them all.  Win or lose have a right attitude.

2. There is no “I” in team.  Never underestimate the power of teamwork.

3. Good things come to those who practice the right way.  Practice makes perfect.

4. Success can only occur with effective communication.

5. Everyone needs a good coach or mentor.

6. Make the most of every moment because you never know when it be your last.

7. Unselfish actions are the best ways to inspire your team.

8. Everyone on the team has something to offer.

There are many other reasons for sports, but these are 8 of the primary reasons why I believe kids should get involved with sports.  I am still practicing these life lessons in all of my business dealings.  This is one of the reasons my wife and I have encouraged our boys to play team sports.

Just about every job these days requires you to work with other people as a team, so why not start preparing your children now for the challenges they will face tomorrow.

 

Question: Are there some other life lessons we can learn from team sports?  If so, please share.  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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3 Must Do's While Waiting on Your Success

Success comes in all shapes and sizes.  If I asked 1,000 people to define success, I probably would receive 1,000 different answers.  Some would be similar, but each answer would be unique to each individual’s desires, goals, and aspirations.

Living in America, it is easy to want instant success.  But what happens if success doesn’t come quick?

When you think of successful people, most of those success stories took a while to formulate.  In other words, it didn’t happen over night.  Matter fact, behind just about every success story, you will find a person or an organization that practiced these 3 Must Do’s While Waiting on Your Success.

3 Must Do’s While Waiting on Your Success

 

1. Be Patient.  Your time is coming.  I know you have heard hose words before, but believe it.  Say it to yourself.  If you read my blogs, you know that I am an optimist.  However, I am a realist as well.  When it comes to your success, the reality is you have to speak well of aspirations.  In most cases, no one will support your dreams and goals if you don’t.  If you don’t believe it, you will not give your goals, dreams, aspirations, or your success any hope.  No matter where you are, you will get to your destination.  You will get better.  You will grow your business.  You will be a better parent.  You will discover your life’s purpose.  You will find that special someone.  You will be a dynamic leader.  You will…  You will…  You will…  You just have to be patient.

2. Be Happy for Others.  Most successful people are able to see the best in others even when they cannot see the best in themselves.  This happens because before any successful person reaches success, he or she has been patient and knows what it feels like to wait on success.  So if you are waiting on your success, be happy for those headed that way or those who are already successful.

3. Be a Forever Learner.  The first two must do’s are very important, but this point is one of the major keys to success.  No matter where we are in life, we should want to keep growing and developing our gifts and abilities.  While waiting on your success, keep learning.  Research, read, study, and keep applying yourself.  Whatever you do, please don’t sit idle.  Keep learning and you will keep growing, which will prepare you for other future successes.

When you look back on the track record of the successful, you will see these points practiced in their wait for success.  Even after success has been achieved, those who are successful still practice these 3 must do’s because new challenges and successes are always on the horizon.

 

Question: What are you doing while waiting for your success?  If you have reached your goals in life, what have you done to achieve that level of success?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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3 Powerful Ways to Market Yourself

One time.  That is it.  You may only have one time to market yourself.

It is easy to take for granted first impressions.

I had an opportunity to break away from the hustle and bustle of my daily work responsibilities to market with a few medical doctors.  I want to share just a few things that I observed from my marketing efforts that will help you personally or professionally.

Believe it or not, we are all marketers.  The question is - What are you marketing?

What is Marketing?

 

I believe everyone knows what defines marketing.  If not, marketing is just communicating the value of a product.

You have a product, but what is your product?  Personally, your product may be your smile, a word of encouragement, the ability to listen, etc.  Professionally, your product may be an actual piece of merchandise or a skill set.  Regardless of whether we are speaking of personal or professional marketing, we all have a product to market.

If you are unsure of what your product is, then think about those things most important to you.  For example, I have been blessed to be part of several different business ventures, but there are three responsibilities that outweigh any of my business ventures.

Three of my greatest responsibilities are being a Christian, being a husband, and being a father.  Yes, in that order.  Because of my three great responsibilities, I know my greatest products are these three things.

What are your personal and professional products?  Write your products down, and then keep reading.

Now you have an idea about what your product may be.  The next big question would be - How are you communicating your product?

We all know how to communicate, but we will always be improving when it comes to our communication skills.   It will certainly be these case when it comes to marketing our product.  It is great to have a product, but the biggest concern when it comes marketing is communicating your product.

Since I started talking about my greatest responsibilities being my product, let’s discuss how to communicate these products.  As a Christian, my daily walk with Christ is the way I communicate the product of my Christianity.  As a husband, my communication is my daily unconditional love for my wife.  As a father, my communication is my daily love, support, and commitment to them and God.

3 Powerful Ways to Market Yourself

 

With the same sheet of paper you wrote down your products, now I want you to write down how you communicate those products.  I want to share with you 3 powerful that help you communicate these products in a more effective way if you are not already doing it.

1. Discover Your Product.  We have discussed this point, but I must add that this is one of the greatest ways of discovering purpose for your life.  Marketing is all about COMMUNICATION.  Well, we can’t communicate what we don’t know we have.  You must recognize the gifts you have been blessed with to properly market yourself.  Some of us have similar gifts, but we also have unique gifts that make us very different and marketable personally and professionally.

2. Communicate Your Product.  Remember our products can different things, but in a nutshell our product is who we are.  It is our personality, patience, love, caring, compassion, thoughtfulness, drive, self-reliance, integrity, passion, faith, willpower, communication, etc.  These are just a few qualities that define our product, but also communicate our product.  You shouldn’t have to shout your product out loud, but you should communicate your product with the way you live whether it is personally or professionally.

3. Stay True to Your Product.  Once you have discovered and communicated your product, there will be others who will doubt you and may cause you to start to doubt yourself.  Whatever you do, stay true to your product.  The loyalty to your product will provide amazing opportunities to promote your life personally and professionally.

The power in marketing yourself is simply being you.  The best marketers are able to make the most of every opportunity in order to leave a long-lasting impression.  If you are able to leave enough long-lasting impressions on others, you will find yourself leaving a dynamic impact on our world.

 

Question: How are you currently marketing yourself?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Gird UP!

“MAN UP! WOMAN UP!” You’ve heard these phrases, but what exactly does each phrase mean?  I just had to get the internet definition for myself, so you may be interested as well.

I saw definitions for it such as, “step up to the plate,” “buck up,” “toughen up!”

MacMillan Dictionary puts it best in my opinion: “to be brave or to take responsibility for the consequences of your actions.” ¹

MacMillan Dictionary also makes the following valid point: “we … seem to have come full circle, using a word infused with gender-specific stereotypes in a gender-neutral way.” ¹

I heard a different perspective from someone that made me change my tune a little bit about using such phrases as “MAN UP!” or “WOMAN UP!”  In summary basically, some perceive these phrases as phrases that don’t promote gender-equality and contribute to the great divide for men vs. women.  In addition, the author stated that sometimes we just pick things up in our everyday language and loosely use it without really considering the underlying meaning and where and how the wording derived and the impact it could have.²

That’s great food for thought.

So, I am taking a different stance and I am in no way trying to impose on your opinion or usage of any certain phrase. I am just stating my own thoughts and opinions.

I choose to take a different stance going forward due to the awesome responsibilities and privileges set before me.

Just hear me out on this.

Daily, we face an overwhelming list of to do’s and tasks that must get done no matter what.  There are actions you must put forth for yourself because no one else is going to do it for you.

Each and every single day, you have to do what it takes to advance your life.  There are things you have to do or they just won’t get done.

It is our responsibility to pursue our own dreams and goals even when those around us think we are absolutely out of our mind.

There is no need in complaining – what resolve comes from complaining anyway?

Making excuses does not lead to progress – it only leads to more frustration.

So, in order to get things done going forward, my stance is this:  I AM GOING TO “GIRD UP!”

Come on, join me, let’s start a trend.  Start tweeting this, post this on Facebook, and start using this phrase:

#GirdUp!

 

Let’s Just Do It!  Do what you have to do! #GirdUp! Get your bearings and just get it done (whatever IT is)!

"Now, gird up your loins (Get Yourself Ready) (Brace yourself) (Prepare Yourself) and arise (Stand Up), and speak to them all which I command you. Do not be dismayed before them, or I will dismay you before them.” ~ Jeremiah 1:17

 

“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind (prepare your minds for action), be sober (be serious) (keep a clear head) (be perfectly attentive), and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” ~ 1 Peter 1:13

References: 1. BuzzWord MacMillan Dictionary http://www.macmillandictionary.com/us/buzzword/entries/man-up.html

 

2. 5 Sexist Words And Phrases We Need To Stop Saying

By Zaren Healey White

May 12, 2014 http://www.rolereboot.org/culture-and-politics/details/2014-05-5-sexist-words-phrases-need-stop-saying/

 

Chaitra Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Spring Your Perspective

Blue, Partly Cloudy Skies Crisp, Fresh air Green, green, and more green Buds, Blooms, and Blossoms Birds chirping Bees buzzing

All of these are very obvious signs of Spring!  Hooray!  Spring is here!

It’s time to get outside again and tend to gardens and mow the grass, ride bicycles, and the best part of spring, with a good spring wind is  fly a kite!

Now, we go from cabin fever to spring fever.  The urge to clean the dust bunnies and change the clothes for the season emerges.  “Good riddance” to toboggans, scarves, extra layers, and coats and in with the short sleeves, windbreakers, and shorts.

Now, we are all well aware that the introduction of spring results in a continued attitude from winter and winter does not want to let go of its cold grip just yet, so temperatures greatly fluctuate during this time.  But that’s neither here nor there, when you have a good 75 degree day to bask in after winter hibernation and dry skin, right?

It has been said through research that a sunny day can certainly affect a person’s mood vastly different than would a cold, cloudy day.  So, how’s your mood these days?  How’s your perspective; your outlook; your attitude; your point of view; your vision?

How are you doing on your 2015 dreams, hopes, and goals?  (By the way, please let us know if we can help you re-analyze your goals and put together an action plan - support@mtnuniversal.com)!

Maybe you have had to re-vamp your goals.  Maybe you have not exercised daily like you were so “gung-ho” about doing at the beginning of the year.  Maybe you are wanting to do some spring cleaning, but just don’t know where to start.  As fast as the days and months are moving, you may feel like you don’t have time to accomplish what you had hoped to thus far.

Well, you know what, please, whatever you do, don’t give up!  We still have HOPE!  We still have time!  You are still breathing and blessed to wake up this morning, so there is still time and there is much work to be done.  It’s Mental!  It’s time to Spring Your Perspective!

“The day the LORD created hope was probably the same day he created Spring.” ~ Bernard Williams

 

This time of year, everyone’s focus turns to spring cleaning and yard work, and just being outdoors. But, what are you doing for your inner-man; your mind; your dream; your passion; your soul-yearnings?  It’s time to put some spring in your perspective!

It’s time for New Opportunities and New Adventures. New Ways of Thinking and Doing.  It’s time for renewal.  It’s time for refreshment.  It’s time for change.  It’s a new season!

Just how do you put some spring in your perspective?  I’m so glad you asked.  Let’s explore below.

Ways to Spring Your Perspective

 

1. Refresh your goals

2. Define and apply the principles of discipline

3. Dedicate a certain time each and every single day to quiet your mind

4. Conduct a brain release and tap into your inner heart and thoughts --- write down every single thought you are having right now for a set amount of time

5. Make a commitment that you are going to be positive and optimistic and you are going to fight the negativity “monster” with all your heart, mind, strength, and soul

6. Take the focus off of yourself and serve someone else

7. Say NO!  Plain and simple.

8. Count your many blessings (you should run out of time and space trying to count how blessed you are; your writing hand should start hurting just because you have so much to write down for how blessed and thankful you are).

9. Challenge your mentality

10. Change your eating habits

11. Take an afternoon off

12. Go for a stroll

13. Take a break/detox from electronics

And the list can carry on.

Question: So, question: In what ways can you spring your perspective?  What helps you to refresh and renew at the turn of spring and a new season? How do you weather the seasons of life?  Leave your comments below.

Chaitra Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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3 Reasons Why You Need a Team

Have you ever been part of an unproductive team?

If you have experienced ineffective teamwork, you know how much of a challenge it can be.  It is hard enough trying to achieve excellence with great teamwork, but it is much harder and almost impossible without teamwork.

Help is needed to accomplish any of our goals, aspirations, and dreams.  I was once told, “If you can accomplish your dream by yourself, your dream isn’t BIG enough.”

The Function of a Team

 

Working as a team is an interesting concept.  Why?  Because when we work as a team, we accept the challenge of trusting others.

“Learning to trust is one of life’s most difficult tasks.” ~ Isaac Watts

 

Functioning as a team can be a challenge.  It’s just like putting a puzzle together.  Every piece is needed, but no one piece is the same.

Although everyone on your team will bring unique differences, the primary function of your team will be to work towards the common goal of achieving your dreams.

Why You Need a Team

 

1. It makes the job easier.  You have heard this cliché many times, “Work smart, not hard.”  Well, a leader does both.  He or she will have to work hard and smart.  I have never met a leader that did not work hard on his or her dream.

Because you will be working hard, select a great team that will help you with the smart portion.  Trust me, there will still be plenty of opportunities for you to work hard even with a great team assisting you with working smart.

2. It holds you accountable.  Whether you are starting a diet, workout program, or a business; it is always good to have a team holding you accountable.

It is easy to commit to an idea with no one holding us accountability, but the “rubber meets the road” once we develop team to hold ourselves accountable.

3. It provides a sense of community.  There’s nothing like having someone who is supportive of what you are attempting to do.  It may be something simple, but knowing you have someone always in your corner at the end of the day is a big plus.

Having a team is helpful on so many levels.  I have had the privilege to be part of some great teams in my career.  When you are attempting to achieve new heights in life, don’t forget that one of the most important keys in getting to the next level is teamwork.

 

Question: What has been your most successful experience in working with a team?   Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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God Cushions the Blows of Life

Special Guest Post by Kendra Ransom

 

 

Have you ever experienced a painful situation?

A painful situation you knew could have been worse, even tragic.  Well, I call that God cushioning the blows of life.

Take for instance, that time you stomped your toe on the corner of the bed frame. Or perhaps, the time you stubbed your leg of the coffee table.  At the initial onset, you thought you broke your toe, but only to find out you only broke your toenail.

Thank God!

 

How about that time you tripped and fell.  You could have hit your head and loss consciousness, fractured a bone, or torn tendon/ligament.  But you only skinned your knee or elbow.

 Thank God!

 

 What about that car wreck when your car was totaled, but you came out of it with only a bruise or two.  Looking at your wrecked vehicle, you knew you shouldn't have made it at all.

 Thank God!

 

 There are so many situations like these.  I believe these are situations when we should thank God.  God's love is always surrounding us.  He keeps and preserves us.

“Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” ~ Psalm 121:8

 

So next time you experience any difficult situation instead of cursing God, THANK GOD!  And just remember it could always be worse.

Question: When has God cushioned a blow for you?  Why are you able to thank God?  Leave your comments below.

 

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The Power In Words

Words are powerful!

 

Just about everything begins or ends with a word.

Since the beginning of time, words have always carried power to inspire or destroy.  Consider the creation of our world.  The creation of our world began with four simple words form God, “Let there be light…”  It wasn’t too long after those words, God began to SPEAK into existence the rest of our world and everything within it.

Think about this, all it takes is a few hurtful and damaging words spoken carelessly or intentionally to start a war.  On the contrary, a few compassionate and loving words has the capability of starting new relationships or mending broken relationships.

Words have also been known to inspire.  Check out this short video.

Be careful with the words you use because all words have power.  Let your words motivate, educate, inspire, and encourage.

 

Question: Are you aware of the power behind your words?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Why You Should Go The Extra Mile

Are you able to recall a time when you were so tired that you felt like giving up?  Have you ever been so fatigued that you had to cease with the activity you were involved in?

I have three beautiful little boys who have changed my life significantly.  After each child I recognized that being a parent becomes a little easier.  (Key word being little.)

I remember the birth of my first child.  A few weeks after his birth I felt like a walking zombie.  (I know you may be thinking, “Bryant, you didn’t give birth to that child.”)  And I would agree with you a 100%, but the reality was my wife and I felt  exhausted after his birth.

As parents, I don’t think you ever catch up on sleep, but you end up developing a tolerance.  And even when we have “hit the wall” as parents, we will always find a way to go the extra mile because we have our children’s best interest in mind.  It is easy to go the extra mile with our close friends and family members, but will you go the extra mile for people you don’t know?

I write this blog because last week I found myself in a unique situation.  I locked myself out of my place of business.  I called a couple of co-workers to help me get back into the building.  One person was unable to help, but the other co-worker was a tremendous helped.

The co-worker who helped me was in the middle of preparing her dinner.  However, she stopped in the middle of her meal and drove approximately 30-40 minutes in the pouring rain to unlock the building for me.  I am so grateful she came to open the building, but the most impressive thing was her attitude and eagerness to help.  She had the best of spirit even though she was inconvenienced.

Why You Should Go The Extra Mile

 

1. It’s just right.

My father and mother always stressed to my siblings and I to always do our best.  Doing just enough to get by can cause problems.  People who do just enough are usually perceived as lazy, careless, and irresponsible.

On the other hand, when you do your best and go the extra mile, you give yourself the best opportunity to be successful.

2. It builds character.

When you go the extra mile, you will start to develop a reputation.  This reputation will follow you everywhere you go.  It was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that said,

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

 

Your character, reputation, and personality will define who you are and where you will go in life.  So with that said, GO THE EXTRA MILE!

3. It creates further opportunities to grow and prosper.

One of the biggest reasons why people are hired, promoted, and trusted depends on their consistent decision to go the extra mile.  Instead of being loud and flashy, attract the attention of others by your hard work with going the extra mile.

Where would you like to go in life?  What type of job are you looking for?  How much money do you want to make?  What are your goals and objectives in life?

It’s never too late.  Going the extra mile starts today!

 

Question(s): What are your feelings about going the extra mile?  How have you gone the extra mile?  Are you afraid to go the extra mile?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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If Your Shoes Fit, Wear Them

When we get caught up in comparing ourselves to others, we will find ourselves neglecting who we really are.

There are so many people hoping, wishing, and praying to be in better situations.  Everyone is in search for more.  More power.  More money.  More square footage to their home.  More, more, more!  However, sometimes we don’t really know what we are asking for.

This video gives PERSPECTIVE!

Make the best of where you are and the resources within your grasp.  Why?  Because…

“The grass isn’t always greener on the other side!” ~ Ricky Gervais

 

Be careful of what you ask for.  No matter where you are in life, enjoy the life God has blessed you with.  If your shoes fit, wear them.

 

Question: What’s your perspective?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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3 Major Mistakes To Avoid As A Leader

It is easy to believe that leaders are “bigger than life.”  In fact, it is quite easy for a leader to think that it is all about him or her.

If you are already a leader or an up and coming leader, don’t believe these myths.  These thoughts will kill your leadership or stop your chances of leading before you are able to get started.

Make no mistake about it,

“Leadership is all about serving with humility.”

 

There are many other philosophies and leadership tips and strategies that are great, but one of the best strategies is simply leading with humility.

On the contrary, there are 3 major mistakes you need to be aware of that some leaders make, which ends up comprising their leadership.

3 Major Mistakes To Avoid As A Leader

 

1. Leading without example.  This is pretty obvious.  How would you feel if someone ask you to work harder, but you never saw that person working?  I would have a problem with those demands.

You shouldn’t ask anyone to do anything you are not willing to do yourself, especially things such as having a positive attitude and going the extra mile.

A good leader leads and has no problem going first.

2. Leading while enjoying comfort.  You have heard this phrase quoted by Voltaire and James Collins,

“Good is the enemy of great.”

 

As a leader, you never want to get comfortable.  People who are comfortable usually feel they have nothing else to learn.

No matter our age, we all can always educate ourselves in some way.  This is why it is so important to read books, newspapers, magazines, blogs, etc.  A good leader will read anything to grow their mind.

Leaders should avoid comfort because comfort is a sign of your leadership coming to an end.  Leaders have always been known for making tough decisions and doing those things that no one else wants to do.  We call that leadership.  It comes with the territory of being a good leader.  Step outside of the box.  Don’t get comfortable as a leader and forget that you need to constantly grow as a leader.

3. Leading with assumptions only.  Good leaders don’t assume.  They research, investigate, experiment, test, retest, and then test again.

Good leaders want to be in the know.  They thrive on information and would like to be completely briefed before making a decision.

When any leader assumes, he or she is playing a guessing game.  Playing a guessing game only leaves your success to guesswork.

Never assume.  Be sure of your outcomes, results, and success by doing your research.

Don’t make theses mistakes.  If you can avoid these major mistakes, you will help the success of your leadership.  Read 6 Habits of Great Leaders (click link) to discover others ways to strengthen your leadership.

 

Question: What other major mistakes have you seen or experienced to help other leaders avoid them?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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A Weird State Of Mind

Are you tired of normal, mundane, ordinary, regular, routine, traditional, typical, general, and average?

If you want something new and different, I think it’s time for you to accept and amplify your weird state of mind.

What is Weird?

Weird can mean so many different things these days, but what does it really mean?

Weird is supernatural, magical, mysterious, peculiar, awe-inspiring, unusual, extraordinary, exceptional, remarkable, distinct, special, and unique.  But I believe weird is much more than the words mentioned above.

“Weird is accepting our ability to be who God created us to be.”  

 

I am weird!  Whether you believe it or not, you are weird!

Although we have many similarities, we are vastly different.  From our smiles to our frowns, we are different.  We differ in height, weight, and race.  We walk and talk differently.  We have a million different physical attributes.  But these differences are what make us so important.  These differences allow each of us to contribute our uniqueness to our wonderful world.

It is our weirdness that causes us to stand out among the 7 billion people populated on the earth.  So, embrace and empower your own weird state of mind!

How many times do you say or think — “That is so weird!, He or she is so weird!”  Such statements prompt the thought that something or someone is unfathomable; you can’t quite wrap your brain around that label of weirdness.  But that in itself is the power of weirdness to possess the freedom of choice and thought to exercise your own weird state of mind!

What do most of the great people you know have in common?  The one commonality is that they are not afraid to be weird, which allows them to be different, extraordinary, exceptional, special, and unique.  Anyone you may hold in high esteem has discovered their own individual weird state of mind, which makes them great in your eyes and others.

These people are able to think and live outside the box.  It is this weird state of mind that allows these individuals to successfully move through countless windows of opportunities.

Well guess what?  You have the same opportunity to capitalize on your weirdness.  You have gifts and abilities this world has never seen before.  Now it’s time to develop your weird state of mind and enjoy endless prosperity.

How To Develop Your Weird State Of Mind

 

1. Trust God’s plans for your life.  You may have big plans for your life, but I assure you that God’s plans are much bigger.  He wants to fill your life with purpose, peace, and prosperity.

Others may have plans for your life, but just remember that those people did not create you.  God knows exactly what to do with your gifts.  You just have to trust His plans for your life.

God never wants to see you lacking anything.  In fact, his primary goal is to bless you.

2. Be yourself.  Never try to be someone you’re not.  You are special and just as unique as the next person.  No matter who you are, our world needs you and your gifts.

There will never be another you.  Someone may try to copy or reduplicate you, but there will never be another YOU.  You are one of a kind!

3. Discover confidence in your weirdness.  Once you are comfortable and confident with being yourself, it is then you will discover various ways of maximizing your potential personally, spiritually, and professionally.

The greatest leaders, entertainers, athletes, musicians are all confident in their extraordinary gift.  Find your confidence by following the first two steps,

It’s time to put away normal, ordinary, and average.  Today, choose to have a weird state of mind and watch every aspect of your life be enhanced.

 

Question: Does the word “weird” scare you?  How can you change your perception of weird and embrace and empower a weird state of mind in your daily life?   Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Family and Leadership

 

How does your family fit into your leadership?

In our last blog, How To Build Powerful Long-Lasting Leadership (click link), we discussed 2 steps to build a powerful long-lasting leadership.  At the end of the day, besides God and your family nothing else really matters.

There is no such thing as a perfect family, which is why every family has challenges.  What will you do when your family faces a challenge?

How we handle our families will determine how we will handle the various teams we will lead as a leader.  As a leader, any team we lead should be like a family.

Take a look at this video and see why your family should be part of your leadership.

You may never have to face the challenge this family experienced in this video, but at some point your family will have to pull together to fight an unexpected battle.

I don’t know what your challenge will be, but there will be one.  It’s part of life.

When your family faces a challenge, don’t sit down and watch the ship sink.  If no one else wants to lead, find the courage to stand up and lead your family.

Your ability to lead your family will prepare you to lead others.

 

Question: How does family fit into your leadership?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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How To Build Powerful Long-Lasting Leadership

Leadership has always been an interesting topic to me because it has so many facets.

I have heard many amazing presentations on leadership from local community leaders to renowned international leaders.  I have had countless opportunities to serve as a leader personally, professionally, and spiritually.  Various aspects of leadership have surrounded me all my life.

No matter where you go or whom you talk to, most people would agree that leadership starts with a great foundation.  When it comes to leadership, some things never change.

The strategic way of communicating and influencing others with your leadership principles may change, but the foundation of leadership never changes.  This is so important, let me say it again.

“The foundation of leadership never changes.”

It may be hard to believe this statement, but it is true.  It holds true to leadership of any form.

What is the Foundation of Leadership?

 

Everything in life has a foundation.

If you don’t think so, try building a house without a foundation.  Better yet, try playing any sport without learning the basics of the game.

Many times in life, we know where we want to be, but we sometimes are impatient about getting there.  So today I want to give you a few tips on building powerful long-lasting leadership.

Once a person discovers the foundational principles of anything, it will give that individual leverage in bettering themselves in whatever specific area of expertise desired.  There is no difference when it comes to leadership.  Growth and development as a leader occurs with a great foundation.

A foundation can be either shallow or deep.  As leaders, we determine the construct of our foundation.  The deeper our foundation, the better we will be as a leader.  If we build a shallow foundation, we set ourselves up to be shallow leaders.

2 Steps to Building Powerful Long-Lasting Leadership

 

There have been many philosophies and ideologies to come and go regarding leadership, but there are two steps to building powerful long-lasting leadership.

Step 1 - Seek God’s Guidance

There are many great scriptures in the Bible.  One of my favorite scriptures reads,

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge.” - Proverbs 1:7

 

God is the foundation of all things because he is the Creator of all things.  Whether you believe it or not, God can promote and prosper your desires as a leader.

For years, people have always sought out the best people in their respective fields to discover ways of bettering themselves.  It has always been a great idea to find the best and learn from that person.

I don’t know anyone more qualified to help your leadership other than God.  God has seen the rise and fall of many great leaders.  He knows all things, so who wouldn’t consult with Him?

Step 2 - Invest in Your Family

The next step to giving your leadership life is by giving your family life.

It would be a great idea to start your leadership at home.  The Bible says,

“For if anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?” - 1 Timothy 3:5

 

I know it is a scripture that speaks in regards to leading a church, but I think it can apply to anyone leading anyone from churches to any business organization.  You may be curious about how it all applies.

If a person lacks compassion, optimism, vision, insight, and care with leading his or her family, it will be very difficult to lead anyone else.  There are no perfect families, just like there are no perfect businesses.  A leader must be able to handle different personalities, learning levels, and gifts.

Invest in your family and it will make you a better leader in every way.

Whatever you do, build the right foundation with your leadership.  Seek God and invest in your family.

 

Question: In what ways can you apply these principles to help you with your leadership?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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Leaders Find a Way

When it seems like there is no way, a leader will always find a way.

My father called me with an interesting dilemma last week.  We had a ice storm a little over a week ago in Nashville.  Because of the ice, my father’s roof developed an ice dam.  The ice dam caused a leak in his home.  He started to call a professional to help with the problem, but decided he would try to fix it himself.

In a safe manner, he climbed on his roof and raked the ice off of his rook where the leak was occurring.  This immediately ceased the leaking.

I think it was pretty interesting that my father knew nothing about fixing an ice dam, but he found a way to solve the problem.

After speaking with my father, it gave me today’s blog topic.

Finding Your Way as a Leader

 

What things are blocking, hindering, or causing a leak in your leadership?

You may not be in the middle of an ice storm or having difficulties with an ice dam on your roof, but we will always face challenges as a leader.  These challenges are our ice dams.

No matter your leadership role, at some point a leader will find his or herself in situations that require immediate action.  Without immediate action, you may find your leadership being compromised and ineffective.

Waste no time playing with these challenges that can tarnish your leadership, but act swiftly to remove any negativity that may be blocking your growth as a leader.

Here are 3 things to keep in mind as a leader.  These three things will help find a way even when it seems there’s no way.  It will improve your development, discernment, and productivity as a leader.

1. Stay Calm.

2. Assess the situation.

3. Put a plan into place.

Next time you run into a challenge, just remember these three things.  With these tips, you will find a way resolve any issue hat may present itself.

 

Question: In what ways have you found a way when it seemed there was no way?  Leave your comments below.

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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3 Reasons Why Humor Will Help You Lead

Leaders have many things in common, but every leader leads with a different individual personality and leadership style.

No matter your individual personality or leadership style, you may want to incorporate some humor into your leadership.  Take a look at this video and you may see why.

All right, I hope your laughing a little bit.  Okay, maybe just a smirk.  I use to love watching Popeye as child.  Along with my father and other mentors, maybe I learned some of my leadership skills from Popeye.  On a little more serious note, I really do believe there are 3 reasons why a little humor will help your leadership.

I’m not suggesting for you to make a career change.  I’m not asking for you to spend countless hours finding or creating funny material to make your followers laugh.  Let me be very clear.  “PLEASE DON’T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB!”  Unless your dreams include being a comedian and you have some experience, don’t stop doing what you are currently skillfully doing.

3 Reasons Why Humor Will Help You Lead

 

Looking back in history, humor has been around for quite a while.  The ancient Greeks derived the word humor from “humoral medicine” because they believed humor was medicine for the human body.  They taught that humor assisted in balancing the fluids of the body, therefore controlling human health and emotion.  Most cultures have benefited from humor, which brought about the phrase “Sense of humor.”

When it comes to your leadership, I do believe a leader needs a little “Sense of humor.”  Don’t over do it.  And whatever you do, don’t be distasteful with your humor.  But there are opportunities everyday to incorporate humor without compromising your leadership.  Here are 3 reasons why humor will help you lead.

1. Humor will create positive energy for you and your team.  If you are leading a team, your team needs positive energy.  Your team will face many challenges with bringing your vision to reality, so try to infuse some humor here and there as the leader of your team.

You never can have enough positive energy.  It can be a great driving force for you vision.

2. Humor will decrease your stress as a leader.  Not only does you team need humor, but individually humor will help you.  As a leader of various businesses and organizations, I will tell you that humor helps.  There are times when situations are more complicated that expected, but a little humor will help decrease the complexity of the situation.

Humor will not make the situation easier, but it may help with your attitude, mindset, or perspective regarding the situation.  Because as you well know,

“Attitude is everything.”

 

3. Humor will strengthen your leadership.  This may be a hard point to believe, but it is true.  There is something about a leader who can smile, cry, and more importantly laugh with his or her team.

Yes, humor creates positive energy with your team helping your leadership.  In the same manner, laughing with your team helps to validate your leadership because you show them you are real and that you don’t take yourself too serious.

It is important for a leader to take things serious from the feelings of your followers, your tasks, goals, objectives, etc.  However, it is a good thing for your followers to see you in a different light.

People want a leader that will lead and be serious, but also at the end of the day people want a leader who will laugh and have a great time.  When this dynamic happens, it will only strengthen your leadership.

If you haven’t been using humor with your leadership, you may not be capitalizing on every aspect of your leadership.  Discover appropriate ways of infusing some humor in your leadership.  Don’t take yourself so serious all the time, but find a way to laugh every once in a while.  Let your followers see you laugh.

Humor isn’t the key to great leadership, but it is one way you could enhance your leadership.  Use it sparingly, but let it help you lead.

 

Question: When have you utilized humor with your leadership?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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3 Benefits of a Versatile Leader

In this era, a leader has a distinct advantage if he or she has versatility.

What is Versatility?

Versatility is the ability to adapt to many different functions.

When we look at versatile leaders, these leaders are able to manage several functions with balance.  The opposite of a versatile leader is a imbalanced leader.  Imbalanced leaders have a difficult time managing several job responsibilities and presenting clear objectives to the people following him or her.

Anyone stepping into a leadership role needs to understand the importance of versatility.

If you are a leader, you will be asked to wear different hats.

Leaders cannot be everywhere at one time, but their vision, goals, and objectives should be.  Leaders should be familiar with every facet that affects his or her leadership, but the versatile leader doesn’t attempt to do all the work.  He or she is great at delegating.

3 Benefits of a Versatile Leader

There are many benefits to being a versatile leader.  Versatile leaders will always be considered the most effective leaders.  I want to deal with 3 benefits of a versatile leader.

1. The versatile leader gains more knowledge.

A versatile leader is able to oversee multiple projects from start to finish.  This doesn’t mean the versatile leader knows everything or is able to master everything, but it does mean the versatile leader has to be educated in areas where he was once uninformed.

Once a versatile leader is enlightened with new knowledge, he or she never stops learning in those areas.  This leads to our next point.

2. The versatile leader increases his or her value in the marketplace.

A versatile leader may specialize in one or two areas of strength, but he or she also discovers ways of improving areas of weakness to decrease vulnerability with his leadership and organization.

After months, years, and sometimes decades, these leaders then become experts in his or her areas of strength and weaknesses because of hard work and impeccable work ethic.

There are many ways or a versatile leader to increase his or her value in the marketplace, but the result is same across the board.  The versatile leader is well sought out, paid better, and more importantly given more opportunities to become more versatile.

3. The versatile leader stands out beyond their marketplace.

Versatile leaders are great in their marketplace, but they also manage to stand out beyond their marketplace.

No matter what market you are in, I believe we would all agree on the importance of being a forever learner and an exceptional work ethic.  Because of our common admiration in any market for these leadership traits, many times versatile leaders end up leading in various markets.

I challenge every leader to become a versatile leader, which will make you more effective.

What other benefits are there to being a versatile leader?  Please leave a comment below or email me directly. 

Bryant

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3 Reasons Why Leaders are Grateful

Good leaders can be hard to find, but when you find a good leader you will have no problems following him or her.

One thing that makes a good leader is his  or her ability to be grateful.  You have seen these practices, but let’s talk about 3 reasons why leaders are grateful.

3 Reasons Why Leaders are Grateful

 

Every leader wants to be at his or her best at all times.  Although no leader can be at his or her best at all times, but leaders can be grateful at all times.  So why are good leaders grateful?

1. Leaders are thankful for their abilities.  Anyone can be a leader, but you will need a special skill set.  Without skill or ability, it will be hard to get anyone to follow you.  In 6 Misunderstandings about Great Leaders (click link), we discussed that leaders aren’t born.  Leaders are made.

Leaders are made by their ability to…

- Prepare,

- Plan,

- Prioritize,

- Communicate,

- Collaborate,

- Take Ownership,

- Delegate,

- Be Humble, and

- Be Grateful.

The list above is a short list, but all these abilities come from a plethora of learning processes.

Leaders aren’t perfect, but they understand the process of nourishing and developing their abilities.  Good leaders are aware of the unique skill set they bring to the table and never take it for granted.

2. Leaders are thankful for their followers.  Most leaders are in touch with what really makes them a leader.  More than anything, to be a leader you need followers.  We discussed this in 6 Habits of Great Leaders (click link).

One of the most important abilities of a leader is being able to influence people.  Where does this influence come from?  Michael McKinney said,

“Leadership is intentional influence.”

 

The abilities we discussed earlier in this blog are the way intentional influence is gained by a leader.  The more a leader equips him or herself will determine his or her level of influence, which directly impacts how many followers he or she will lead.

3. Leaders are thankful for their experiences.  The greatest teacher in life is experience.  Whether your experiences are positive or negative, they will help you grow quickly if you are willing to learn from them.

It is no surprise that no one wants to go through negative experiences.  However when I talk to people about leadership, I always discuss how we learn more from our negative experiences.

Good leaders have grateful hearts.  They don’t take for granted their abilities, followers, or experiences.  If you are not grateful as a leader, I challenge you to be grateful and watch your scope of influence expand.

 

Question: What are you grateful for as a leader?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

 

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6 Habits of Great Leaders

Whether you know it or not, you are a leader.

We all would love to be effective leaders, but at times every leader questions his or her effectiveness.  We discussed some myths about leaders in our last blog, 6 Misunderstandings about Great (click link).

Today, we will look at 5 habits of an effective leader.

6 Habits of Great Leaders

 

Most effective leaders will not come out and tell you that they are great.  Greatness isn’t actually the goal of an effective leader.  An effective leader is driven to build practical strategies in order to build successful results and outcomes.

An effective leader will experience success with his or her practical strategies if they are able to the big picture down into very small pieces.  When a leader possesses this gift, it will lead to numerous victories and success causing others to deem him or her great.  But remember, greatness is never an effective leaders goal.

The effective leader not only focuses on the goals of his or her vision, but focuses on the small steps it takes to get there.

In our last blog, I gave you 6 misunderstanding of about great leaders, but now here are 6 habits of great leaders.  The small steps it will take to reach your personal and professional goals.

1.  Lead and communicate.  I think is very important for every leader to lead while being able to verbally convey his or her message to those who are following.  John C. Maxwell said in The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership,

“He who thinks he leads, but has no followers, is only taking a walk.”

 

Without communication, unfortunately leaders are only leading themselves.  You may have have a great vision, but leaders must be able to verbalize that vision to his or her followers. 

2.  Lead with compassion.  There is nothing worse than a leader leading without compassion.  Leaders and followers alike are quite familiar with compassion.  In most cases, most leaders who are trying to lead the right way are in a leadership position to help others.

Even with these good intentions, quite frequently the goals and objectives become more important than the people.  This is NEVER a good thing!

An effective leader must lead with compassion.  The people following must know you care about their well-being.  There has to be a healthy balance with the people and relationships being priority over numbers, statistics, goals, and objectives.  If you have a hard time with this thought, just remember John C. Maxwell’s quote under over communication point.

One of the primary reasons we are effective as leaders has everything with the compassion we have for our followers.

This doesn’t mean that the followers are making the decisions or that you should diminish your role as a leader, it just means that your followers know you have their best interest in mind with every decision you make from the hard to easy ones.

3.  Lead by example.  Any follower I have been able to lead or in the cases where I have been a follower, it is something remarkable about a leader that leads by example.

These leaders are remarkably effective because their followers understand that their leader is aware of their position.  At no time will you find a good leader asking his followers to do something that he or she isn’t willing to do.

Leading by example is one way to quickly gain credibility with the people you are leading.

4.  Lead with consistency.  Everyone loves consistency.  It is fascinating watching the skilled athleticism of professional athletes.  No matter the condition, these athletes are usually able to consistently perform at high level.

Consistency is not only important in sports, but it is just as important when it comes to leadership.  Any follower loves a leader that will be dependable.  Roller coaster leadership usually leads to confusion and chaos.

5.  Lead with passion.  How would you feel if a salesman attempted to sale you something they lacked enthusiasm about?

Others may give up on your vision, but effective leaders will continue to lead with intense devotion to his or her vision.  This leader is never afraid to stand by his or her vision and tell others about it.

6.  Lead with insight.  Another fascinating gift of an effective leader is his or her ability to visualize things better than they really are.

If leaders aren’t able to see the best in themselves and others, it is impossible for their vision to be successful.  Leaders have to see “the glass half full” versus “the glass half empty.”

You will be surprise what you will be able to do if you will just develop these habits mentioned above.  Don’t ever get caught up in the big picture that you forget about the small things that makes the big picture beautiful.  Effective leaders are able to focus on the important, but small things while yet still focusing on the big picture.

 

Question: What other habits of effective leaders have you encountered?  Leave your comments below.

 

Peace and Prosperity,

Bryant Hall

MTN Universal, LLC

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