Part 1 of 2: Is it better to give or to receive? Gratitude vs. Debt

I am a woman in the service industry, as are most of my clients, colleagues, friends and family so I am moved by the concept of giving and receiving.  I have been focusing on the feeling that I cultivate when I am being of service.  As a professional consultant, I am often called to be a diplomat or, as I like to say I’m the elephant woman.  “There is an elephant in the room and we’re going to figure out how to get him out.”  In addition to diplomacy, clearly problem solving is creating a new avenue where one didn’t exist before.  I have been honing this skill for 15 years and it’s brought an amazing outcome, big picture vision building skills.  I have to admit that I am still being very clear about the goal, the mission and that all elements that are supporting and growing this process remain.  It is often a humbling experience to realize that there is movement or there are results where one did not exist before and this is a result of a partnership that I create with my client.  It is such a reward to have the outcome being realized and being present in every moment leading to that time, and the following are some of the factors that I must be mindful of in order to create this bubble of catalyzed intention!

1)      Always doing my best.          

Sometimes I have good days, and there are challenging days and experiences as well.  My process is one of being as focused on self-care and self-support as much as possible so I can be the best in my role.  I have a few tricks for sleep debt, puffy eyes, and…well you get the idea!

2)     Staying grateful for all of the assets that are present.

I was representing the clinic for an event with the Executive Director and I forgot the clipboard!  I don’t like to panic, and usually I take a moment and think about the lesson that I needed to learn in the moment (Get really colorful clipboards!).   I adapted, and now know that large magazine will serve as a mini-clipboard in a pinch.

3)     Focus on the solutions in each and every scenario and positively so!

If you pay attention to all that you are not happy about the rest of what is working seems to shrink in comparison. This is a tool of drawing boundaries and being realistic and present with what is happening…’cause being stuck on what you want is not going to bring it to you.  Being present to the solution will bring an even more amazing outcome, I have discovered…the journey is just as important as the destination young paduans!

4)     Don’t take anything personally (and if you do, you’re really not focusing on what your role is being of service Period).

Don’t get me wrong, it is not an always perfect day, or an ideal outcome.  However, the progress is definite and the action is happening so you are being in the right place.  I ask a few questions when a situation like this arises including; Have I done all that I can do?  Is there anything I’ve left un-done that I can do to solve this problem?  If the answer is no, then you’re golden on your path and totally complete with the right intention in, right action, while having a right livelihood. I’ll be speaking a little more about debt vs. gratitude next time. 

Micaela Cordoba is also the Patient & Community Relations Coordinator for the California Community Clinic for Acupuncture (CCCA) www.ccc-a.us  http://on.fb.me/CCCALS

Can’t we all just get along? Client & Consultant Satisfaction w/Dr. Linne Bourget Part 2

Part II:

Dr L: Well, yes, the power of Love and not Fear. Our culture is so rooted in tearing each other down. In creating the strengths-based leadership movement and writing my trademarked positive leadership series “What You Say Is What You Get®”, I understood time, and time again from my opportunities that my clients need to hear how amazing they are. This is how I begin my process. The most vital thing is to really get clear, get authentic and get real about what everyone is thinking, starting with their strengths and greatness.

MC: How do you achieve that? Group dynamic or team building?

Dr L: Initially, I conduct a series of very intensive personal interviews. One-on-one with permission and the full support of the hiring client executive, usually the Sr. V.P, V. P. or Director or owner of an entire company, I express that this is going to be a quick fix, but not the usual band-aid type which is often the bane of our American and ‘Old’ mentality in business, well come in and fix it all now!  My work is fast and deep, achieving great results for clients much faster than other change and leadership approaches.

MC: Like a fast-food culture, all the area’s in business want to increase their bottom line yesterday! Do you often hear that, do what I’m telling you or what I want now attitude?

Dr L: Sometimes, but in walking in, stepping into the arena of support with the structure and my approach all on the table, tell them, I respect you, I appreciate your expertise and your degrees and what you’ve achieved and successfully manifested in business, and I am an expert in my field. I am completing these interviews so I can support you and your culture in growing and expanding your business.

MC: Oh, okay.

Dr. L: Ah, yes, to operate in the space of ‘now’ it is a powerful place because energetically, and intuitively if you check in before you jump in to the situation, well, there is not only knowing but also being present to what is needed. I find that after I’ve done a series of interviews, starting with the highest-level executives, and team members, to the supporting staff, or researchers, they may not really know what their role or mission is.

MC: So, for example, the major issue being they don’t know their purpose? Why they are doing what they are doing? Fascinating…what about the corporate handbook or orientation? (Smiling)

Dr. L: Well, that is true, but often, my experiences and clients are heavy in computers, science and technology. So, Mensa intelligence, but fewer social skills! They have no training in how to communicate their problems or express them.  Challenges in their team building, and creating well win-win conversations with their associates and managers.

MC: That is deep Dr. L.

Dr. L: Micaela, I am the queen of ‘deep’.  In the words of your generation, superficial is ‘toast’!

MC: Ha!  Perfect! (Laughing)

Dr. L: Yes, I am committed when hired by an organization and brought on to clearly define their problem so that they and I will be successful. I am dedicated to finding out all that is lying underneath, the truth, the deep need. Here goes a thought,  superficial always puts an organization or business at risk. We can’t create on the superficial, but can move mountains when we get to the deep resources of an issue and resolution is guaranteed.

MC: Dr. Linne, I am wow…floored. I could talk about this topic for weeks.  It is really for me been just looking at where and how I can be more effective, personable and real with my clients.

Dr. L: Well, I guess we could (Laughing) I’ve dedicated my entire career to it.
I am just excited to be sharing it with you and I must mention my new book to you and your readers.

MC: Yes, what is the title where can we all get it, and do tell us, how do folks reach out to you to engage you for their business.

Dr. L:  Well, the name of my book is called From Old Power to New Power: Which Leaders Will Survive? ~Is currently available on www.amazon.com

It, and also in audio form which is not up on the site yet but is 5 hrs, on 5CDs in my own voice.  Just email us for the info, it is brand new, so I am feeling like the proud Mom.

MC: Awesome, I’m going to call you the Quantum Connector! My new Super Hero name for Dr. Linne! (Smiling) ’cause it appears that we all need to fall in line. Thank you again for your time, Dr. Linne and for your contribution to this industry. You are a trail-blazer and have created a true approach to business that I am happy to say I’m working to integrate daily into my business. Can we ask you back again? We’ll have to create something really fun for our next round?

Dr. L: Micaela, anytime! Thank you for asking me to speak with you and best of luck in your endeavors, “Ambassador of Kwan”!  I love it….you are saying it, and being it, Micaela.

MC: You rock.  Thanks Dr. Linne !

Dr. Linne Bourget’s can be contacted at her firm, The Institute for Transformation Leaders & Consultants, in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She provides practical, positive, collaborative, easier and faster. She has a University of Chicago M.B.A. & B.A. in Economics. Her most recent book From Old Power to New Power: Which Leaders Will Survive? By Dr. Linne Bourget is currently available on www.amazon.com.

For any further information on Dr. Bourget;  to inquire about her services, books, e-books and articles on her site below:

http://drlinnebourget.blogspot.com/
http://www.whatyousayiswhatyouget.com/services.html

Till Later,
Happy Planning
Micaela

Can’t we all just get along? Client & Consultant Satisfaction w/Dr. Linne Bourget Part I

So, last week, I wrote about the satisfaction and happiness of the Consultant, not just the Client. Well, with over 900 views on my Posterous blog..(http://bit.ly/ckwanpos)
It seemed like I struck a chord so, I wanted to continue the topic and I’m bringing some reinforcements. Over the course of the next several weeks, I will be bringing some guests, and favorite folks to discuss what and how they approach being ‘Ambassador’s’ in their areas. Please, drop your questions, air your comments and let me know, what you think? Away we go!

My first guest to this discussion, Client & Consultant satisfaction, is Dr. Linne Bourget. I met Dr. Bourget at an Amega Global Super Saturday, and needless to say, she left a distinct impression, beaming with positivity, a great smile and a laugh that could only be described as infectious…it took us all of 5 minutes to mind connect and discover that we were both Military kids he rest as they say is here! When I called her a few weeks ago to share what I was up to with my new blog and this process of being a Corporate Mystic in the Social Media PR industry, she was very excited to share and I was to listen…

MC: I’d like to introduce everyone to Dr. Linne Bourget. Dr. Linne (I call her) combines analytical, multidisciplinary strategic thinking with systematic intuition and a dynamic positive approach. Dr. Bourget, leadership futurist, is the national pioneer in positive appreciative strengths-based change leadership systems for rapid change, consulting with executives in business, government, and health care for 25 years. Dr. Bourget’s practical Ph.D. in Change Leadership (with studies at Harvard and MIT) and M.A. in Psychology are from Boston University. She has a University of Chicago M.B.A. & B.A. in Economics. She has worked her way through four degrees, making the academic practical. A 4th-generation intuitive, she is a founding and the longest running member of Mark Victor Hansen’s Mega Inner Circle.

Dr. Linne, I am so happy to have to weigh in on this discussion. So, as I’ve spoken about to you, I am growing my Social Media PR business, and have focused on how to be more supportive and connected to what my Clients are asking for but, also what I like to say, what they are not asking for. How are  you an expert in this area and what exactly do you do?

Dr. L: Thank you, well I am so glad that you called, our connection was obvious I have looked forward to speaking with you. My work is on the leading edge of practical and deeply positive approaches to change. As a “leadership futurist”, I am dedicated to supporting the positive approach to transforming ‘old power’ dynamic’s and approach to business to the ‘new power’ idea economy which we are all currently operating in.

MC: Interesting, can you distinguish for everyone what the difference is between the ‘Old and New’ power dynamic? This sounds like a lot of what I’ve noticed in the industries of business period.

Dr. L: Micaela, the shift is happening in every industry. The difference between ‘Old‘ power and ‘New‘ power is something that I’ve discussed and writing about since the early 80’s. When I created this distinction I realized that in the ‘Old‘ system we are dedicated to tearing people down to re-build them up. Heavy criticism, penalties for poor performance, and the like. In the ‘New‘ system, the basis for my work and business with the first rule, do no harm. My goal is not only to create a collaborative process for my clients, and their staff and employees, with the focus being on identifying, appreciating and applying everyone’s strengths. That means, actively and constructively unleashing everyone’s greatest talents, and gifts.

MC: I like to say that my role is to cultivate the ‘super-hero qualities’ in my team!

Dr.L: Exactly! This is the dynamic that one need’s to show to cultivate true change, and turn around a crisis, without losing one’s power, credibility, or creativity. I announce it, very clearly, very obviously to my hiring client, I am for the positive focus on what is working, and empowering the community and culture that I’ve been asked to support. My goal is to truly see and appreciate what is working well. It has been my clear observation and experience over the course of years of high-level corporate consulting, that the positive always works…always.

MC: So could you give us some broad strokes of how you would support a failing or corporate culture that is not doing well? Using your Corporate Mystic approach of course.

Dr. L: Yes, I like that. Well, first things first. I check in with my guides, my team of angels, and spiritual support tools. This is the most part of what I do, my Intuition when I’m working with clients is in the 90% accuracy range. My intuitive approach is also in co-creating with very savvy, extremely intellectual and talented people.

MC: Wow! So I’m not the only one that checks in before, checking in! That is very impressive, Dr. Linne, 90% is like right on correct? What has been your reaction from clients, in such corporate and science based industries, are they confused or do they roll with it?

Dr. L: Well, when I pursued my degrees I wanted to create a practical approach to my life. As a rule, I don’t mention spirituality at all. I use my spiritual  background to ground my work, to create a higher level playing field to work.

MC: Hmm…(Smiling)

Dr. L: I mean, I don’t talk about spirituality directly to a client. I focus on the most neutral and positive approach to cultivate change, in the areas of Science, Technology and Business where most of my clients thrive, spirituality would initially make them uncomfortable.  The truth is Micaela that a few of the most traditional, and highly devout people, get it! Often very creative, outside of their ‘corporate’ positions, musicians, botanists, artists, very multi-talented people…they look at me, with a question in their eyes, like what are you really doing?  These groups of people are usually the one’s that soar with success!

MC: So, basically the energy of positive re-enforcement with the background in discipline, the discipline of prayer or meditation already in their history has a more profound impact on their ability to be more effective and productive leaders in their business…that is the power of deep appreciation and respect for the Clients.

We’re going to pause right there…and continue our discussion with Dr. Linne in our next posting Part II.  In the mean-time, Dr. Linne Bourget’s can be contacted at her firm, The Institute for Transformation Leaders & Consultants, in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She provides practical, positive, collaborative, easier and faster. She has a University of Chicago M.B.A. & B.A. in Economics. Her most recent book From Old Power to New Power: Which Leaders Will Survive?  is available on www.amazon.com

In audio form which is in a 5 hr, book on Please contact Dr. Linne directly at her site for purchase and inquiries for CDs.

For any further information on Dr. Bourget and of course to ask about her services and many books, ebooks and articles on her site’s services and products page below, if you are in need of an expert in the field are here:

http://drlinnebourget.blogspot.com/
http://www.whatyousayiswhatyouget.com/services.html

Till Later,
Happy Planning & Blessings
Micaela

Rule #14 – Rules are meant to be re-defined, “Ambassador of Kwan” style (MIFS)

Yes, it is true, I am not really one to follow all the rules. I’m not trying to be defiant, however, I admit that they are often quite restrictive, un-inventive and a bit harsh. At this point in my career, you have to come to a place where you say, the buck stops here. I recognize that I’m not operating this ship alone…and thank heaven for that. The process of being in production, on budget, and present every-day is very intense. So, you have to re-define what rules are, especially when the major rule, or boundary time, is not on your side. Creating a path to operate, and as several of my earlier entries over the course of this week, well, I’ll just say it, really cool project to be a part of…is to get very clear about that the goal is. Sometimes, goals, or Livelines (yes family still working with that new language) really do need the discipline of structure. Now this means not swaying from the action, but creating within it. We’ve all got out methods of achieving this, and mine usually happens when I’m sitting in the sun (yes, Sedona sun is the best, and here’s a little sunset for all of you who doubt me ;_)

When I decided to pursue this project and I did follow-up on it, I recognized that we are always learning and re-inventing. So, yes, the rules of protocol, creating a plan of action, outlining your approach, creating your team all still apply but ‘it is in the doing’ that makes a project unique. We were looking at a very short lead time and even shorter team building time. Yes, major fundamental is building and creating a team. Ideally, these are factors that make a project soar, or in the case of previous debacle’s, yes even I have had a few, can break a project. You really need to apply balance to your projects, and that requires, a lot of patience, diligence and humor!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQrfx-NdkP0

Maya Indie Film Series is a relatively new entity (http://bit.ly/fbmaya) People in the community are often hesitant of new things. However, the way I looked at, supporting building their community, and integrating some Social Media approaches utilizing my experience was an opportunity. The rules in projects that have cariño for me really does create a different shift in how I approach them. In creating a new model in the Social Media/PR industry I didn’t want to be like all the other SEO’s out there…and there are a lot. I’ve in fact been sticking to my roots, as a rule. So, if it doesn’t sing for me, and creating bells and whistles, I will pass on it.

The phrase “Ambassador of Kwan” was yes inspired by my movie buff addiction, I am without question, in my circle the Kevin Bacon Queen! Case in point, with the (MIFS) I have been able to support this dynamic and authentic independent film series with my writing, in that I love also to write. So, I offered to use my blog as a springboard, creating traffic to a new organization and project like the Maya Indie Film Series (www.mayaindieseries.com) will align it with the ‘household name’ status. Like Sundance, and the Sundance International Film festival, Maya is getting the best and brightest to support her sophomore effort, yes! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRfwRnrOa6k

It’s absolutely part of the process, being in production that you are open to meeting and connecting with dynamic, vibrant really talented people. As a Latina entrepreneur, it is also a great pleasure to collaborate, share, and support other fellow La Raza family. Fortunately, my trip to NYC, was the first one I’ve had, since moving away. What a surprise, as working was not working but fun! Being on deadlines with deliverables became, Livelines with milestones, so I would say that doing what I’ve been passionate about did create an opportunity for me to share that passion, and uniqueness with others. I asked a few of my colleagues if they would take a project with 5 days of lead time and a massive campaign with no pre-production and they all said “No!..what are you working on?”

To my beautiful new extended family…big ups to the Hostle in the Hood…great time, and always stylin’,( C, C & M). The BK Crew with a flair for all things media, will be dropping a very nice representation of the NY leg of the Maya Indie Film Series on Twitter (http://twitter.com/mayaent) and of course as I’ve mentioned before, the site has the schedule for the next 72 hours http://bit.ly/mayatime. Here’s a GAME: Game On!! If you want to see some of these wonderful indie films. You can do the following and tell your friends, and their friends, you get it…

1. FBook us http://bit.ly/fbmaya
2. Tweet us at http://twitter.com/mayaent
3. Join us online at http://www.mayaindieseries.com

PRIZE::: I will GIVE YOU ( 2 Tickets to the movie you want to see) One Request…I need to know ASAP!!! So, becoming a part of our Maya Indie Film series will be a win-win!! Needless to say, as I’m nearing the end of this amazing ride, I felt the want to share some of the highlights, quips and of course pic’s. I am new to this Blackberry, download, and upload zone, so my excitement is only wrangled by my goal to show and share where my Social Media/PR business, and brand of creating my business is going. The joy of knowing that I don’t know but feeling it and well use the “sense that God gave me” to quote Grandma Myrtle, is really about being open to re-defining rules, of success and worth…of freedom and discipline and at the end of the day, getting the job done. This project had its stumbles and like to call them ‘dropped balls’. Often, unintentional because we are all into what we’re into at the time. If I come along and totally throw you off your path, your game, the proof will be in the pudding, or in the ball just laying there on the ground. Now here’s another,” one monkey don’t stop no show” so keeping it moving will often leave you in the wake of my smoke, when I’m on FIRE.

For anyone in production, events and Social Media it is about striking that hot iron…time waits for no man or woman, or clouds floating by…=) (another shot of the Sedona Sky) In that case, no offense, no animosity, satisfying my client’s need and being of service takes precedence. That’s where the diplomacy and tact and my mother’s warm voice floats in and says to me “in the grand scheme of things is this really important Micaela?” So, there is nothing like re-creating and re-defining what works for a project, and I have to say I’m going to drop a link to the other entry that I made about the film that I must link below. It is just the trailer but, whew…Diego Luna, que bueno! He did such a great job in manifesting what I like to call the ‘fine-line’ between like-able and feared…and his female leading ladies, only made every other action flick look like a cookie-cutter! Inventive, dark, funny and down-right well-written, Solo Quiero Caminar is my ‘Summer Favorite’ but I confess, it is the best movie I’ve seen all year! Gracias (http://bit.ly/mfrule11 )

“Like most writer/director’s, Mr. Yanes allows his characters to push, punch and dig their way through some of the juiciest dialog and fast-moving plot turns as I’ve seen in years. It was such a treat to get on a ride and have no idea where it was going to end up. However, I did know that I was being led by some of the sassiest, and fiery Latina’s that I’ve seen on-screen in the states. We have seen his homage to the strong women in his life in his earlier turn with Ms. Penelope Cruz (for all us Pop-Culture kids she is happily married to fellow Spaniard Mr. Javier Bardem, Felicidades!!) In “Don’t Tempt Me”, like the powerful Mr. Cruz in her role, Ms. Ariadna Gil is taking no prisoners, literally. Unlike most female protagonist roles in the american cinema, there is something powerfully vulnerable and fragile about this woman. It is hard to see, if you’re not looking, almost impossible if you are just looking at her being the head of her ‘hemanas de sange’ blood sisters. She is no-nonsense, immediate and the most multi-dimensional character I’ve seen written for the screen in years….and I see a lot of foreign films and flops.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7YJysd1nfg

To everyone, officially and un-officially on Team Maya, including the bold Ryan Heil and LIVEstyle Entertainment http://www.livestylent.com/ for giving us at C Micaela Consulting (http://bit.ly/mysocialbiz) this wonderful opportunity. To Paradise Events and Entertainment Group including Ann, Taurean, Buzz and Tony of the Team Followback, great thanks to you all, for all of your efforts under the most intense of pressure and delivery time. To Mayra (yes, I have a little something for you and your quest for pool time =) Tia Betty, thank heaven for knitting, House Of El say no more, Geri & Sedona sister’s Dr. Beckwith and Agape, Live streaming rocks ! (http://bit.ly/agapest) I really am just one cog in wheel thank you for making us roll right along. Of course, you have seen that I am celebrating the life of one of my first coaches, and the total visionary that always told me I could do anything I set my mind to, Mom,

Celia Audrey Frederick-Cordoba (1950-1997)

Mommy, you would have dug these movies! I am very proud to have you as my ancestor and look forward to creating a lineage that honors you, your sense of wit, intelligence, and joy in life! Sending you blessings on the other side.

Maya Entertainment and the entire family and Esparza community I hope and trust that that the 3rd Annual Maya Indie Film Series has as much excitement as this year did! Till Friday, the final installment of the series, I’ll be ending with a really cool interview, so please be sure to look us up at http://mayaindieseries.com/blog/.  P.S. Have you joined our list-serv yet?  It will keep you up-to-date on the DVD release and the upcoming event for Fall 2010~2011.

Happy Planning & Viva La Raza

Micaela

National Social Media Manager

Maya Indie Film Series

micaela7@gmail.com

http://bit.ly/fbmaya

http://bit.ly/blockbustermaya

http://mayaindieseries.com/

http://twitter.com/mayaent