2009 - what's your plan?

Are you thinking forward, making plans for 2009? Are you being specific? Or are you happy to continue as you are, perhaps making a new year's resolution that you don't commit to keeping?
You can write goals at any time of the year but with New Year upon us, it's often time to ponder what lies ahead. I wrote my goals a month ago and am still refining my plans so that I can make 2009 even bigger and better, not only for me but for those whose lives I touch. I am thinking, "how can I grow and help others grow too?"
I conducted a telecall last week to help you write your goals for 2009. There is more to it than just thinking about it or writing a list. What if you could learn a way to set your goals with greater certainty and clarity to compel you to move forward towards them? You can still register and listen to the call by visiting Goals Align in 2009 for a small investment. How much is your goal worth?
Brian Tracey has said "Goals in writing are dreams with deadlines" - isn't it time you started achieving your dreams. Take action now and move forward strongly and positively into 2009.

Happy Holidays

Wishing everybody joyful thoughts and gratitude at this time of the year. Christmas for me is more about the spirit of togetherness than exchange of gifts. Take the time to be grateful for what you have have in your life right now, the moments you have experiences, the people who have made a difference to your life.
I believe that unless you are grateful for what you have, the universe is less likely to give you anything more. Think of giving a present to a small child who then does not appreciate it - are you pleased to give that child any further presents?
When you start appreciating the results you currently have in life, the things you HAVE achieved, then you can go out and BE, DO and HWVE more.
I wish you big dreams for 2009.

Olympian Klim swimming in a new direction

I was watching Channel 9's 'Business Sense' this morning and came in as they were interviewing Michael Klim. Having retired from Australian swimming (a sport in which he became a world champion, world record holder, 3 time Olympian and Olympic dual-gold medallist), Klim is now producing and marketing skin care products.
In the interview Klim stated how he was working on putting the same passion and drive that he had for swimming into his new career. The reason I'm writing this, is because he didn't sound very convincing. It was like he was hoping he could get passionate about his business the same way he was passionate about swimming.
I'm sure many athletes can identify with the passion for their sport, I know I had it for beach volleyball. What if you could EASILY transfer that passion and drive into a completely new venture? What if you woke up feeling the same way that you did when you played sport, or some other favourite activity, instead of how you are currently feeling - perhaps flat or even dislike!
The work I do with the mindset can easily change how you think about the things you do, the things you eat and even what you believe. This can happen in a couple of minutes by simply changing how you code and store memories in your mind. Curious? You can find out more by emailing info@annetteffect.com.au

Playing the victim doesn't get results Symonds

Australian cricketer, Andrew Symonds is once again in the headlines for the wrong reasons and I'm not going to point the finger at him, or the fan that apparently felt snubbed when he couldn't get an autograph. The hotel manager backs Symonds that he did nothing wrong. A cricket australia spokesperson stated that they will be investigating "specifically into what he did and, as importantly, what he did not do"
I believe that we create everything that happens in our life - in some way or another. This can happen directly through our actions, or, perhaps in this case, through our non-actions. It's easy to blame certain situations as being out of one's control, and what this does is remove one's personal power.
By blaming someone else, it's in effect saying "I can't do anything about it". Where does that leave someone like Andrew Symonds - that he can't do anything to stay out of trouble?
It we step up and take responsibility for our lives, then we start to ask ourselves better questions - how did I create this? how CAN I stay out of trouble? How can I maintain a good reputation and behave like a champion?
It's time for Symonds to look deeper and consider what he can learn about this for himself so that he can move more powerfully forward to his future, and create the results he truly wants.

Rehabilitation in Sport - Ben Cousins return

Controversial AFL player Ben Cousins continues his comeback campaign to the national game following the AFL ruling. Despite stringent drug testing imposed on Cousins requiring up to 3 drug tests a week, he is keen to be drafted into a club for the 2009 season. There are many points of view on whether Cousins should play or not, and under what conditions, and it begs the question, how do we allow someone to move forward from their past mistakes?
Dale Carnegie, renowned for his business and leadership training, has said "give people a grand reputation to live up to." The point being, that what we expect to see is what we get. If we expect someone or something to go wrong, we will look for all the evidence that supports this belief, and overlook all the times that it goes right. We are all 'creators' or our reality and if there is a collective belief that Ben Cousins is going to 'stuff up' again, then we might all be proven right.
To get ahead in anything you want to get up more times than you fall down. As long as you keep striving, and that each time you fall you get up again, then you will succeed. Cousins has fallen hard more than once, but let's not push him down. When a toddler starts to walk and they fall down two, three, four times....are you going to give up on him/her ever walking? Of course not.
Perhaps if we give him, and others returning from rehabilitation of any sort, the support and belief that people can change, then Ben Cousins is more likely to return to his sporting glory. I hope he does.

Retirement & Comebacks in sport

When is it a good time to retire? It took me three times to finally retire from sport. The first time I retired was because I had reached my goal of playing in the Olympics and thought there was nothing left to do in the sport. The second time I retired was because I thought I was getting old (37 y.o) and I should take care of my back (screws had held it together since '92). When I retired the third time, at age 41, it was for the right reasons - I had a new passion and new goals to finally convince me to put away the competition cozzie/togs/bathers/swimsuit for good.
Australian, Geoff Huegill, just announced his comeback to swimming with aims to swim in 2010 Commonwealth Games. He cites is health and weight as a major reason for returning to swimming and also feels he has unfinished business.
Lance Armstrong is making his official comeback to competitive cycling in January in South Australia for the 2009 Tour Down Under. His reasons seem to be more about raising awareness for cancer, than cycling per se.
And Layne Beachley, Queen of the surf, 7 times world champion, recently announced her retirement, excited about the business opportunities ahead of her.
Each athlete will have their own reasons for retiring, returning or even staying in sport. I think it's important for an individual to wisely consider their motivation for either - is it positive and towards something they want to do, or is it motivated by pain, moving away from an undesired situation eg lack of success outside of sport. Having a positive direction to move towards is inevitably a more empowering motivation that produces results.
A key to successful transition is identity. I realised my identity was wrapped in being a sportsperson and as long as that remained, I always floated back to that. Once I learnt to identify myself as something new - a business person and entrepreneur, it was easy to change my actions, my results and therefore my life.

Australian Cricket - Captain-Crew communication

I was just reading about some issues arising during the second cricket test between Australia and India where there was some obvious disagreement. Australian captain, Ricky Ponting was physically expressive when discussing tactics with bowler, Brett Lee, demonstrating that all was not well. The author of the article, Malcolm Conn, suggested Ponting would have been better off communicating in a less demonstrative way and may have got his point across more clearly to Lee in a calm and mannered way. The audience woud have been none the wiser about any existing problem.
It brought to my mind how effective are the rest of us at communicating with our team to get the best results. Each individual has a team within themselves - the communication between the conscious mind and the unconscious mind can be likened to the communication between a Captain and his team. The more aligned and on the same path, the better the results for all.
Are you communicating with your team - are you giving clear instructions? do your words and your feelings match? My latest e-book "Power of Communication" will help you to communicate more clearly towards geting better results in all areas of life. Visit www.annetteffect.com.au in coming days to access this information.

Seve Ballesteros and getting around obstacles

Do you wish that life would run more smoothly and that you didn't have to deal with obstacles? I was asked how I approach obstacles during a live tele-call last week. When you look back over your life, you will see that the obstacles you have faced and dealt with have shaped you into the person you have become. We all need challenges to grow and it is how you deal with the obstacles in your life that will determine how quickly you overcome them to get to your desired goal.
I just read that golfing great, Seve Ballesteros, has been diagnosed with cancer and his response is "During my career I was one of the best at getting around obstacles on golf courses. Now I want to be the best at confronting the most difficult match of my life with all my strength." Do you think that that attitude will help him recover more than if he focused on the problem of having the cancer.
It has been said "keep the end in mind" and it was the attitude of another famous golfer, Greg Norman ("Way of the Shark"). By knowing where you want to go, and being committed to that goal, you will find a way. It's just a matter of how and trust your unconscious to guide you there. If one way around an obstacle is not working, then find another way. It that doesn't work, find another way. How many time? As many as you need until you succeed. How much do you want it?

Learning from Anthony Robbins

Always keen to learn more, I went to Anthony Robbins "Unleash the Power Within" last week-end in Sydney. It was wonderful to watch Tony's artistry in using the skills and techniques that I commonly use in my coaching. He reminded me of the power of using your body posture to influence your emotions. Often we allow our emotions to dictate our posture, and this can accentuate the emotion - positive or negative. Think about how you sit when you are depressed and when you joyful. Two very different body positions, aren't they?
How does your body posture affect your ability to train, play and/or compete. When things tight or not going your way, is your body responding in the same way? Or are you using your body to life yourself up and hold your head up high so that you can start getting back into the game or competition.
It's not always easy to get onself out of a bad mood or down state, so next time you find yourself feeling negative, sit up, pull your shoulders back and put your head up. If you're game, you might even try curling up the corners of your mouth - aah yes, there it is, a smile!

Playing by the Rules & Cameron Smith

The big news in Australian sport this week is the shock that Melbourne Storm captain, Cameron Smith, will miss the Australian Rugby League final due to his suspension. Stung for a 'grapple tackle' on Bronco's player, Sam Thaiday, Cam's protest is that other players had done it and gotten away with it. Though he is prepared to cop the 2-game suspension, Cam's argument sounds like one from a primary school playground. You know the one. "Oh Miss, they did it too!" (say it with a whiny voice for added effect).
The point still remains that tackling around the head and neck is dangerous and can have nasty and even fatal consequences. It reminds me of a quote by Oprah Winfrey, "“Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody's going to know whether you did it or not.” Don't do something just because you can get away with it, even though it may do harm to another. A true champion values integrity and will avoid the attitude of winning at all costs. The cost can be too great so why risk it.
Football players and all athletes need to start taking responsibility for their actions and consider doing the right thing, rather than stretching the rules.

Let it Go

Have you ever noticed times when you try and try to get a result and nothing seems to work, and then you give up or let go. Isn't it funny how once you let go, that things start to work out for the best? Perhaps that very thing you were striving for occurs easily and effortlessly.
My philosophy on going for goals is this:
Setting a goal gives you direction and helps you create the life of your dreams. Once you set the goal, become confident and trust that it can and will occur. And then, here's the tricky bit, you need to let go of it HAVING to happen. Or at least for it having to happen exactly as you plan. This very letting go, ironically, increases your chances of achievement.
Yes, you still take action towards you goal and do whatever it takes.
The distinction is that by letting go you open yourself up to going with the flow and seeing the opportunities that present themselves. It gives you the ability to adjust to changed circumstances. If you are limited to only 'one way' then you might be shutting yourself to necessary detours or shortcuts.
Letting go allows you to focus on and enjoy the process and appreciate the present.
Where in life can you let go? You can find more of my insights and learnings through my newsletter. Read past issues of AnnetteffectNews now.

And now for the paralympics - are you watching?

Who is following the Paralympics? After all the glory and media attention of the Olympic games, do we give the same attention to the feats of these amazing athletes. I was just reading about Natalia Partyka and her extraordinary success in Table Tennis. She actually competed in the regular Olympics a few weeks ago also and hasn’t let the absence of a forearm stop her from being competitive against fully-abled opponents. Read her story and be inspired http://en.paralympic.beijing2008.cn/news/special/features/n214591907.shtml

Goals and Dreams: Act on them now

"GOALS: Imagine what you can do when you are inspired by them, imagine what you can do when you believe in them, imagine what you can do when you ACT upon them." (Jim Rohn)
I shared this quote today at a networking breakfast and thought to share it here. Your imagination can either create OR limit your opportunities and the choice is yours. When you dare to dream, such as many of the Olympians on show recently, then you open yourself up to what is possible. When that dream inspires you, pathways will open themselves up to you and it's up to you to take them, to ACT upon them. It is not enough to think that your thoughts will create your results. By having inspired thoughts, you will find a way to take the right action. Pay attention to the signs. The one who takes regular daily action in the right direction is the one who will succeed. Is that you?
If you want help with focus and training your mind towards your dreams, visit masteryourmindmasteryoursport.com to register for my online course.

Laser focus key to McLellan win

Congratulations Sally McClellan for winning Silver in the 100m Hurdles in Beijing. Watching Sally's interviews post the semi and the final made it clear to me that this girl has the right mindset of a champion. She demonstrates an ability to focus during the race and then seemed very clear in how to prioritise her thoughts directly after the semi-final. Very down to earth, able to enjoy the moment and yet looking forward to the next step. Sally's stated goal was to make the Olympic final though I am curious when she decided to aim higher for a medal. Was it once she made the final, or was it something she had put into her future some time ago and kept it to herself.
Sometimes when we share our lofty goals with others, the small-mindedness of well-meaning friends might stamp out the fire that burns within. I believe it can be better to keep our grandest goals close to our heart.
During the interview post-final, Sally had the look of someone who had seen this potential outcome before - and now it had actually occurred! What an amazing surprise that must have been - to think, this mind stuff actually works. It happened perhaps exactly as she had created.
Sure, I'm mind-reading here but I feel confident in stating the Sally McLellan has put as much training into her mindset as she has into her physical strength, speed and agility. The rewards are hers and who knows what she will set out to do now that she realises that anything is possible.

Beijing Olympics - sink or swim

Half way through the Olympics and athletes dreams have been realised, some have been exceeded, and or for some, dashed. So much energy - emotionally and physically - goes into preparation for this once in four years event. What makes the difference between glory or not?
I'm always interested to hear quotes of athletes as I am very curious as I listen for insights into their thinking. What created their result? I was in the UK when Welshman, Nicole Cooke won Gold in the cycling road race - she was quoted to have dreamt of winning Olympic gold when she was just 11 years old! Then I read of Libby Trickett trying to stop vomiting before a race - what must be going through her mind to cause this. Is she consciously thinking about what could go wrong? Is it just a physiological response occurring at the unconscious level?
When it comes to pre-race or pre-match routine an athlete wants to be in a state of mind that maximises their response. If Libby is able to put positive meaning to her response, and use it to power her towards a winning result, then it may be beneficial. Some people think that these sort of responses can't be changed. They can! We can make changes at an unconscious level to totally transform our behaviours and therefore our results. I know if I was still competing that I would be looking to create the best emotional state and behaviours to ensure the best result.
I would be looking to see how the best of the best does it. At the moment the best is Michael Phelps. At the time of writing he has won 7 Gold medals at one Olympics and preparing for his 8th. How does he prepare? What goes through his mind as he stands on the block? I’m curious, aren't you?

What sports for Olympics?

As I googled today for sporting news I noticed a number of comments on what sports should be included in the Olympics. Phil Mickelson thinks golf should be an Olympic Sport and a number of cricketers, including Steve Waugh and Adam Gilchrist, are backing their own sport to be included.
One of the criteria for Olympic sports is the universal appeal of a sport - that is, how broadly the sport is played across nations of the world. Cricket, though spreading in popularity, still falls way short of being global. Gilchrist is reported saying that building Olympic support of the Twenty20 format will help spread the game to further nations, including the US and China. I understand that it works the other way round - build the sport to world-wide popularity and then be invited to join the Olympic family.
Golf has universal appeal and yet I wonder it's legitimacy as an Olympic sport when it's players are so well rewarded as professionals. I think one of the criteria for being in an Olympic sport is that the Olympics would be considered the pinnacle reward for that sport. I believe tennis lacks that legitimacy because players would surely rank a Wimbledon win over an Olympic medal. Similarly, a golf player would rank a US open or British Open title over an Olympic win also.
I wonder what others think about sports that could be included and those that could be dropped. I know when Beach Volleyball was first accepted in 1996 it was wildly panned by naive critics, particularly because the athletes wore bikinis. Now it is widely accepted for the athletic sport that it is and one of the more popular watched sports. What do you think on what's in and what's out?

Trickett turning failure into Gold?

Australian Libby Trickett is poised for a gold rush in Beijing, based on form and world ranking. Much wiser than when she went to Athens as Libby Lenton, and a world record holder, Libby is reported to have learned from the experience. Back in 2004 Libby buckled under the pressure and expectation and 'only' managed team gold in the relay and bronze in her pet event the 100 metre freestyle. This was considered 'failure' in light of her preparation and it is encouraging to read that Libby views her experience as one of "learning'.
I believe there is no such thing as failure unless we choose it be, or if we let a bad result cause us to quit. We either like a result or we don't, and unless we are willing to learn from the result, then we can not grow and move forward. Most of the world's biggest achievers have succeeded after many a failure. In fact, no-one can succeed without failing first. Often we might place higher meaning to where that failure occurs - especially in the big Olympic spotlight as happened for Libby.
That Libby Trickett has continued to work hard in her sport and win the admiration of supporters, sponsors and peers is testament to the attitude of persistence and an ability to learn from the hard knocks.
What can you learn from your least desired results? What do you need to learn in order for you to succeed?

Michelle Wie playing against the men again

The Women's British Open commences this week and yet Michelle Wie has once again chosen to play against the men - a tournament in Reno. There is much speculation as to why Michelle continues to test herself in this way - is it for her sponsors? is it bad advice from her management? is it Michelle's own decision? Perhaps the focus is on a long-term plan developing Michelle's game against tough competition for future success on the LPGA tour?
But could Michelle get this same development competing against the women? This week's British Open would have given Michelle a final chance to play against golf legend Annika Sorenstam, who is reported to be retiring after this event.
18 years old and with a long golf future ahead, is it time for Michelle to start producing the goods that her potential has been screaming for. Is it enough to have the potential to be great? Michelle might be thinking she has the experience and maturity to make these decision and hopefully she will be able to look back in future years and know that she made the best ones for her own success. If anything, it is an opportunity for her to learn and grow in ways beyond her sport.

Drugs, Tour de France, Olympics......

The Tour de France is finished with a new champion. I am sorry to see that Cadel Evans missed out on the win and yet a mark of consistency to finish second two years in a row. A noteworthy feat that few can emulate.
Drugs marred yet another year of racing and even the final day featured a drug bust. and now heading into the Beijing Olympics, drugs are yet again a feature of the news.
Top US breast-stroker Jessica Hardy recently tested positive for a banned substance. 1 in 4 Australian athletes expect there to be drug cheats competing in Beijing, with swimmer Grant Hackett saying "it would be naive to think the games will be clean." The head of the World Anti-Doping Agency, John Fahey is confident of a 'cheat-free' games despite continuing doubts about the effectiveness of blood doping tests.
Are the drug cheats still one step ahead? Are there nations that still dope their athletes secretly as in the East German regime of the '80's. I recently watched a documentary on the sad effects on East German athletes now 25+ years post-drugs. Athletes permanently crippled and in constant pain, women that have undergone gender change because of the effects of the drugs.
Is short-term glory worth this pain for those knowingly taking steroids for performance enhancement?

Power of Persistence - Merlene Ottey attempts for eighth Olympics?

As a keen watcher of Olympic games since my '76, I have always admired Jamaican-born sprinter Merlene Ottey. She first competed at an Olympics in Moscow in 1980. I admire her for her persistence, determination and grace - powerful qualities of a champion. To read that 48 year old Ottey is still running and striving to race at a record eighth Olympic Games (28 years after her first) is truly inspirational. It was reported this week that she had failed in her bid to qualify by a mere 28 hundredths of a second.
However Ottey will continue to run. Her coach states that Ottey will continue to run because she can still be fast. It appears that Merlene Ottey is in sync with her body and how things ARE rather than ascribing to general beliefs about what should be. By being in the moment, and perhaps being passionate about running, Ottey continues to thrive on running and the motivation to compete at the highest level.
Though Ottey failed to win Olympic gold, no-one can deny the measure of her success which includes 9 Olympic medals, 2 World Championship titles and 14 world Championship medals.
Last week another veteran, 39 year old Irina Privalova also missed out qualifying for Beijing.

Tour de France - go Cadel

It's wonderful to follow the current success of Australian cyclist Cadel Evans on the Tour de France. I met a young Cadel at the Sydney Olympics as a fellow competitor when he was a leading World Mountain Biker and admired his down-to-earth but no-nonsense attitude that suggested, to me, he was going to be successful for years to come.
Cadel has been a consistent performer on the World stage since his first Tour de France in 2005 with a debut 8th performance. After finishing runner-up in 2007, consistency has seen him grow to favourite on this year's tour which finishes this Sunday. Does he have what it takes to win, and to repeat it to become an enduring champion in the footsteps of Lance Armstrong?
I look forward to cheering Cadel across the line at Champs Elysees from afar. Be inspired by this video

Learn from a Champion

What better way to become a successful sporting champion then learning from someone who has done it already. Shelley Oates-Wilding is one of Australia's most successful sportswomen, representing Australia in three sports. She has been to two Olympics, was a finalist in Atlanta and was a World Champion in surf ski and outrigger canoeing. Shelley has also created success outside of sport in business, as a motivational speaker and as a wife and mother.
Shelley will be chatting with me on the 24th July answering YOUR questions. Go to a wwww.askyoursportingchampion.com to submit your question - what is the one thing you would like to know about what it takes to be a champion? You can then register your spot on the teleseminar and get all the details of the LIVE call/webcast. I look forward to welcoming you on the call.

Venus Williams wins Wimbledon

The women's Wimbledon final has been played after a fortnight of upsets over the top seeds. The Williams' sisters have once again stepped up when in counts - in Grand Slam competition. Some detractors see this as a sleight on the quality of women's tennis - that someone who pays more attention to fashion and media opportunities can turn-up to a major competition and still make the final and win.
The Telegraph (UK) argues that this supports why women should not get equal pay as men's tennis. Their argument reflecting not only the discrepancy in number of sets played, but how difficult it is to win the respective championships. The latter being highly subjective.
In the corporate world, there is never any argument that the intensity of work/labour is in direct proportion to the amount of earnings. In fact it is quite the opposite. In the corporate world, he/she who works "SMARTER" rather than harder, is the one earning the big dollars.
Venus and Serena Williams exhibit, what I consider, a healthy belief that their life can be balanced between success on the court and off the court. They believe they can win without tormenting their body with week after week on the tour. That is smart and those who object could perhaps look at their own belief patterns to ask themselves, why is it wrong? What do you think?

Responding to Challenges-Jana Rawlinson

I am sitting at Heathrow airport waiting for my flight back to Australia. The flight has been delayed 3 hours and I will now miss my connecting flight in Singapore. Along with some other challenges recently in completing my membership site on schedule, it reminds me of how often things do not turn out like you think they will.
Have you noticed how once you set a goal that obstacles and challenges suddenly arise? Of course they do. If you didn't have the goal or the intention to go in a certain direction, a particular event or object does not present itself as an obstacle. The more you want to achieve something, particularly in a certain planned way, the more an obstacle can challenge you - how much do you really want it?
World Champion, Jana Rawlinson has had her fair share of challenges over an amazing athletic career. At her fittest, she has proven unbeatable on the track in her pet event, 400m hurdles. Her biggest challenge has been in staying fit and healthy for the biggest prize - Olympic glory. A knee injury disrupted her 2004 Games and the 2008 Olympic year has been another struggle for her. She is only just returning to international competition this week. Will her persistence and tenacity drive her to overcome this challenge and enable her to claim her Olympic dream? Often when we are faced with recurring challenges such as injury, there may be lesson that we need to get. Often we resist or fight our challenges rather than responding, like an aikido warrior and going with the challenge and redirecting the force.
What are your challenges? Have you stopped to consider what message it is that you need to get to overcome these challenges once and for all?

What defines a sporting champion?

In my mind a sporting champion is not defined solely by their results. It is easy to distinguish the champion who wins the title or gold medal - they are in the news for all to see. Not all that win are true champions - it is what they do with that win - their response that can define it. Do they win gracefully, do they win with courage and are they consistent in their response - either to win consistently or to also lose with grace and courage.
The champion that does not win the game or the race is less easy to see. This sporting champion gives their full 100% each and every time in competition and training; leaves their heart on the field, does whatever it takes to win and then is able to accept defeat. The defeat does not come through lack of application. In sport only one can win first place, but all can still win - it is the term of 'winning' that can be redefined.
You see, it can be tempting to view a loss as a failure. That the sole criteria for success is based on coming away with a win - without seeing what is actually achieved in the performance. A champion mindset is able to see the result in perspective, and take a loss as a learning experience - learn what needs to be done next to continue on to further success. The more you fail, the more you will succeed.
A champion never loses as long as he/she continues to learn and grow and become the best that he/she can be. Start acting like a champion and the results will follow.

Living your Dream Don Bemrose

Listening to the National Anthem at a sporting event always stirs emotion within me - a sense of pride, a sense of achievement - for me it's a powerful emotional state from which I feel capable of anything.
Check out http://youtube.com/watch?v=g7R7zZsP6Gw where you can listen to my friend and colleague Don Bemrose perform Advance Australia Fair in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium at State of Origin 2. This is an opportunity that Don created for himself - let him tell you the story at www.donbemrose.blogspot.com by believing in his dream and taking action to make it come true.
It gives me great pleasure to share it here with you.

Kurek Ashley's "How Would Love Respond"

I recently received Kurek Ashley's new book 'How would Love Respond?" and I was so taken by the gift that I wanted to share it and the wonderful bonuses that come with it.
Kurek was an integral part of the Gold Medal winning performance of Natalie Cook and Kerri Pottharst at the Sydney Olympics. Their win was more about the skill of their mind then their playing skills. A topic I am so passionate about and that has inspired me to helping others create their own gold medal winning performances.
“I knew in my heart that with Kurek’s help, I could win gold in the beach volleyball on Bondi Beach, Australia. His enthusiasm, love, passion and positivity is contagious and infectious. How Would Love Respond? addresses how to deal with fear, doubt, self-esteem and anything else that stands in your way to achieve everything you have ever dreamed of. It is a must-read for anybody that has a dream.”--NATALIE COOK, Olympic Gold Medalist, Sydney 2000, Beach Volleyball
I am able to offer this exclusive ‘invitation only’ celebration to take advantage of the amazing free gifts and prizes Kurek is offering us when we buy his discounted book . You will receive over $2000 in free bonuses instantly PLUS every book purchased gives you 12 chances to win over $190,000 in prizes.

I guess now you can see why I want you to know this. The best part of this terrific celebration deal is yet to come…this book is amazing and has already been projected to become a best-seller with rave reviews.
“Kurek you are truly the embodiment of the word ‘outstanding” --Anthony Robbins
Visit http://tinyurl.com/4uyzt2 to get your books, gifts and prize entries.

Goal Setting with Brian Tracy

I was reading "Maximum Achievement" by Brian Tracy last night and got some new distinctions with regard to Goal Setting. It wasn't anything that I hadn't heard before, but just by reading it again and being open to learning something new, I understood it at a deeper level.
It is with regard to the power of persistence, particularly for goals that are much bigger than your current experience. These goals do not come easy or quickly - as Brian Tracy says "you will have to grow and develop to the point that you are ready to achieve it." Consequently, you experience challenges to reach that point.
Think of all the great things that you have achieved in the past - did they follow times of difficulty and even initial 'failures'? When you experience the same challenge over and over again, there is still something for YOU to GET. Here is another chance to learn and grow.
Many of the greatest successes in time occurred 'one step beyond' a great failure. Often it seems like everything is suggesting to quit, when in fact it is the challenge to you - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT THIS GOAL? How much do you belief in yourself. Along the way you even get to learn something about faith and trust at a deeper level than you ever thought possible.
Get the learnings, belief in yourself and your dream, and GO FOR IT!

Buy the positive approach by Zig Ziglar (from Jim Rohn Newsletter)

I would like to share with you thoughts of Zig Ziglar, a leader in personal growth and performance.
"Just what can positive thinking do? To be candid, some people have given positive thinking a bad name. I can't stand to hear some gung-ho individual say that with positive thinking you can just do "anything." If you think about that one for a moment, you recognize the absurdity of it. As a ridiculous example, I'm a positive thinker, but I could never slam-dunk a basketball or perform major surgery - or even minor surgery - on anyone and expect that person to survive.
It's safe to say that positive thinking won't let you do "anything." However, it is even safer to say that positive thinking will let you do "everything" better than negative thinking will. Positive thinking will let you use the ability which you have, and that is awesome. It works this way. You can walk into a dark room, flip on the switch and immediately the room is lighted. Flipping the switch did not generate the electricity; it released the electricity which had been stored. Positive thinking works that way - it releases the abilities which you have.
The student who hasn't studied and prepared for the test won't be helped by "thinking positively." However, positive thinking will help the student who has studied and prepared by "releasing" the stored knowledge when the questions are asked. To express it in a different way, knowledge breeds confidence; confidence breeds enthusiasm; and enthusiasm is an important key to being and doing more with your life.
Buy the positive approach to life and I will SEE YOU AT THE TOP!
Zig Ziglar
: Reproduced with permission from the Jim Rohn Weekly E-zine - http://www.jimrohn.com

Nick D'arcy out of Beijing Olympics

I have just been reading the various comments on the decision to kick Nick D'arcy off the Australian Olympic Swimming team. It is interesting to view people's attitudes that in fact he has been treated unfairly and that his behaviour outside of swimming should not have any affect on his ability to swim for Australia. Mmmm, interesting.
I believe we should all take responsibility for our actions. If there is an unpleasant situation arising, rather than pointing the finger and saying it's not fair, it's time to take a good hard look at oneself and ask, "How did I create this!" This question could be asked of short term situations, such as Nick D'arcy's, or perhaps even your long term situation - how did I get to this point in life!
I am passionate about athletes being better role models for the benefit of the whole community. Athletes represent their sport whether they are in the sporting arena, at training, or out on the town. They invariably have signed contracts agreeing to represent their sport and to avoid disrepute. When things go wrong, and they attract negative attention, they are in fact breaking their contract and will have to face the consequences.
If you are siding with the likes of Nick D'arcy, Ben Cousins, Wayne Carey, Barry Hall, etc and think he should be given a second chance, where else in life do you have that attitude. When you are competing in your sport for the gold medal, there is NO second chance. You have to perform on the day. Why not get in the habit - live like there is no second chance, because maybe you won't have one!!

State of Origin Qld vs NSW - how can the odds be so wrong

Queensland went into the first Rugby League State of Origin match for 2008 as outright favourites. Big bets were being placed and going by the media, I even thought it might be worth a wager. Lucky I didn't. In sport, there is rarely a 'sure thing'.
So what went wrong? How can a team with such a range of talented players go on to lose. This is a team that was so good that the likes of Scott Prince missed the team.
Did Queensland players start believing all the media hype and figured that they had it won before they even stepped on the field? Did Queensland players forget that it is their actions that determine their results, and that the action on the footy field was where the game was going to be won/lost.
Did NSW decide to prove the media wrong? Did they decide to take matters in their own hands, believe in themselves (even when others wouldn't) and came out prepared to do whatever it takes to win?
Speaking to you as an athlete, it's important to realise that having positive thoughts and self-belief can drive you to success. However, This can only happen when you act on those thoughts. That you take that self-belief out on to a playing field to play like a winner and create opportunities to win.
The meaning one gives to various situation, such as media reports, will have a huge influence on how your think and feel. This in turn will affect your action and therefore your results. A champion is better at creating the right meaning and drive that will move them towards consistent and winning results.
Whether you believe what you read or not, you will be right.

Feedback - Breakfast of Champions (Ken Blanchard quote)

What is the best style of feedback to get better results? Coming from a sporting background I know the commonly accepted 'constructive' feedback model. This is the feedback which tells you what you are doing wrong - the constructive part referring to the fact that when you improve this aspect of your technique/game, then you will improve. Unfortunately, as far as mindset goes, this feedback CAN put the focus on the error or problem. Post feedback, you can suddenly be thinking don't do this, or worse still take it all personally and think "I suck!" or "I can't do anything right!"
In "The New Psycho-Cybernetics" Maxwell Maltz comments how excessive negative feedback can in fact inhibit performance. This is especially true when an individual is sensitive to the feedback.
Having come from a background of 'constructive feedback' I was initially sceptical when I started using the Feedback Sandwich model. This entails telling someone first what they did well, then what they need to do to make it better, and finishing off with something good. When I first started hearing the feedback I thought, I'm tough, give it to me straight. Then I started to appreciate hearing all the things I did well, and realised how more 'constructive' this was. Even the part that needed improvement was offered wholly as a solution (rather than what I did wrong) and it felt encouraging and uplifting.
I now see the old method in a different light, and it really appears to be more destructive than constructive. Many athletes I know tend to be good enough at doing this to themselves already, that they don't necessarily need a coach to knock them down any further.
For example, after a golf drive off the tee would you prefer to hear A. You didn't contact the golf ball with the head at the correct angle OR B. You hit it cleanly, and a good back stroke, and when you angle your head like this, you will achieve a better line.
The main point I want to get across is to think how you are giving feedback, either to yourself or others. Are you considering what you did well AND working out how do do it better? Are you building yourself and your team up to greater success?

Two Pinnacles of achievement meet at Everest

The Olympic flame, representing the pinnacle of sport, was lit atop another pinnacle of human achievement, Mt Everest, just a couple of hours ago. It is a poignant moment for those who aspire to reach either of these great heights share a common mindset. It's a mindset of commitment to do whatever it takes to reach a goal, it's a mindset of purpose and it is a mindset of self-belief, knowing that oneself has got what it takes to do what it sets out to do.
I was inspired today by a fellow results and performance coach about how he was committed to singing the national anthem at this year's State of Origin match at Suncorp Stadium. Don Bemrose writes of the importance of DECIDING and COMMITTING and the success that follows as a result of these chief TWO ingredients to getting what you want in life.
This very same day I was talking to a lady that felt she had failed to reach certain goals in the past because they hadn't been "realistic". That is just another word for 'excuse' or "I coulda, woulda, shoulda". If you are questioning whether a goal is realistic or not, then you are not committing to making that goal happen.
A champion who makes it to the Olympics, to the top of Everest or to singing a national anthem is committed to doing whatever it takes to get there. What can you decide to do today and commit to achieving? Declare it here so that others can hear your commitment.

Attitude of Gratitude & John deMartini

I listened to Dr John de Martini at a BusinessSwap breakfast. John spoke of "The Riches Within" and one thing that I took away that morning was further distinction on the importance of gratitude in your life. By being grateful for what you have in your life, you attract more of that and more.
Afterwards it made me think, once again, how to relate that to sport. I thought of athletes and teams who hit rough patches in their progress - perhaps an unexpected loss, a result that is less than desired or short of a goal. It is often usual that the athlete or team will look at the result for what it isn't - it's not a win, it's not a step towards qualifying for Beijing, it's not a good result.
What if that same athlete/team chooses to look at what there is to gain from the result and start to be grateful for the learnings. Focus on how this very result can propel one further to one's ultimate long-term goal. What was done well in the competition? What was learnt? When this is done, one can leave with greater self-esteem that is empowering towards building towards a better result next time.
Yes, we may be disappointed with the result but quickly, very quickly, turn that disappointment around and focus on the have versus the have-not.
As Jim Rohn says "There is no better opportunity to receive more than to be thankful for what you already have."

Choose your Attitude - lessons from Fish!

I just read the book Fish! by Stephen C. Lundin, Harry Paul and John Christenson which is about boosting morale and improving results in the workplace. I was thinking how the principles apply to the sporting arena. Principle number one is to choose your attitude and it ties in beautifully to key areas I have been talking about - choosing how you want to be when you play, train or compete. Choosing means taking responsibility for your emotions, your behaviours/actions and therefore your results.
Some people want to look outside of themselves for excuses and reasons i.e. reacting to external events. But think about it, when you place reasons outside of yourself, how are you going to create the results that you really really want? By stepping up and taking responsibility, you declare that you are going to get something done, no matter what obstacles come in your way. A coach or a team-mate might get in the way, but you can respond in two ways - point the finger at them and blame them for your lack of results OR choose to overcome the obstacle so that you can get your desired result. It's in your hands. Are you ready?

It's all in the Mind - Happiness, Success, etc

A Twitter post by Dave Lakhani directed me to a video post on Ted where Harvard psychologist, Dan Gilbert talked about synthesised happiness. It discusses interesting research done to show that happiness is really all in the mind and that you can decide to be happy NOW. Happiness is not based on external circumstances though we always run our lives that way. You many know someone who has said "I'll be happy when......!"
You can insert any word for 'happy' and the same thing applies. "I'll be successful when...." The thoughts in our mind dictate the feelings in our body, so why not think happy thoughts, successful thoughts, optimistic thoughts.
Now I know some of you might be thinking "Well, that's just kidding yourself." Yes it is. But guess what, you are kidding yourself too when you are thinking those bad or negative thoughts too. So if you are going to kid yourself, do it wisely and in a way to empower you to success and happiness.
Check out the video now on http://www.ted.com

Life after sport - Scott Miller, Andrew Johns

The headline report on the news last night revealed Olympian Scott Miller and former Rugby Union player, Mark Catchpole had been involved in major drug operation. It is yet another example of a fall from grace for a talented sportsperson and it once again highlights to me the need for athletes to consider their future beyond sport.
Andrew Johns, in being nominated to the Australian Rugby team of the century, declared that Rugby is his whole life. I think therein lies the problem.
Yes, to achieve at the highest levels requires discipline and laser-focus. This narrow focus, however, can close an individual to other opportunities present in their life. In being so caught up in their passion for their sport, it is not uncommon for athletes to forget about setting new goals on retiring from sport.
I know for me, retiring from sport was more about NOT playing anymore, rather than looking purposely towards what I would do now. I wandered around for 6 years and fell in and out of retirement three times, trying this and that, before I finally reignited a new passion.
Don't let it take that long. Start thinking now about what else you want to achieve in life. How can you utilise your sporting success to inspire others or transfer these skills to success in business.
If you have have retired from sport or are doing so in the near future, now is time to ask yourself "How can I continue to live my life with passion?"

Learnings from Dave Lakhani of Bold Approach

I had the extreme pleasure of spending time with author and master of persuasion, Dave Lakhani while touring through Cambodia with Chris Howard's Billionaire Adventure Club.
I learnt alot about selling myself and it got me thinking about how, as athletes, we might sell ourselves short - not only to others, but more importantly to ourselves. Are you selling yourself short? What I mean is are you aspiring to be the best or only to be the best that you 'think' you are capable of. Einstein said that we are limited only by the boundaries of our own thinking. When you dare to go outside those boundaries then you can begin to play in a greater arena. Dare to dream bigger.
When I started going to personal development seminars I started seeing how I can do so much more. I had stopped setting grand goals after I made it to the Olympics - that was what 25 years of my life had been about. Now I see that I can do so much more. I am going for Gold in life. So should you! What do you need to do to get there?
You can find out more about Dave and persuasion at Art of Persuasion

Tiger Woods - Master of the Game

I am ferociously curious about what it takes to be a champion at the highest level. That is why I am always looking to read about the best of the best in sport to find out what makes them tick. I look for autobiographies, articles, interviews and whatever I can find to learn more.
I just read "Tiger Woods entering a zone where few have travelled" on nydailynews.com by sportswriter Hank Gola. Hank describes Tiger's amazing ability to repeatedly come from behind in golf tournaments and raises intrigue to how he has mastered this.
If you could only model one athlete on who to base your mental mindset, Tiger Woods would be the chosen one. From my own readings, I undestand his work with his sports psychologist, Dr Jay Brunza, has enabled Tiger to play in a hypnotic trance. Milton Erikson said that all people are living in a trance, one of disempowerment. When we can awaken within and use that trance state to one of empowerment, then we can truly succeed at any level, at the level of Tiger Woods perhaps.

Creating success through emotion

I am at the FIVB Beach Volleyball championships in Adelaide working with a team and it was wonderful to watch them utilise their new skills to produce a winning result. I am so proud that they decided to switch on to a new level when they were down 9-12 to lift their game and the results showed. From then on they constantly chose how they wanted to be emotionally and stayed in control of the game. They won and they qualified - the main competition starts tomorrow.
Many athletes wait for results to show before they get fired up. In contrast I watched another team play - fellow Aussies so I wanted them to do well. It was as if they were waiting for something to happen before they could play well. They definately didn't show up to win. The commentator urged on the crowd to get behind them, to fire them up. But you can't wait for someone or something else to do it for you. Only you can fire yourself up, and you can do it now. You can do it before you step on to your court, your track, your field - whatever sport you participate. You CHOOSE how you want to be from beginning to end. The Aussies lost. That thing they were waiting for to fire them up never happened. Don't let that happen to you. Make sure that you yourself be responsible for showing up to win.
You can find out more about mastering your emotional state in the latest copy of Spike Magazine or go to www.annetteffect.com.au to find out how you can achieve sporting success.

Olympic Torch lit in Ancient Olympia - ignite YOUR flame

I was sitting in the airport in Bangkok yesterday when they were showing live the lighting of the Olympic flame. Despite controversy with protestors requesting boycott in respect for Tibet's conflict with China, the flame was lit in preparation for it's journey to Beijing.
To me, the Olympic flame is symbolic of an athletes burning desire to compete and achieve. I was reminded of the time of the lighting of the flame in the cauldron in Sydney 2000 ignited my fire within - here I was ready to play at my very best amongst the best. I had never been so hungry and inspired to perform as I was at that point in time. The flame was anchored into my psyche, from the time I had first dreamt of becoming an Olympian - at the age of 10, when I was inspired by the feats of Nadia Comaneci.
What inspires you to be the best you can be? Are you doing all you can to reach your dreams? I realise now that I could have done more, that I could have aimed higher. I realise that I could have asked for help to give me a further edge and to go beyond my limits. I wish I had and I wish you do too - invest in your own dreams and seek out the assistance you need to be the best. Whether you need to be better physically or mentally, find a coach so that you have all the skills. Keep the fire burning.

Congratulations Tamsyn Lewis

Congratulations Tamsyn on a World Title at the Indoor Championships in the 800m. A demonstration of persistence and focus. If you believe in yourself you can do anything, regardless of the past and past performances.
For those reading this, be inspired - if she can do it, you can do it!
Read more

Specificity in your Goals - do you need to use numbers?

In a newspaper article yesterday Libby Lenton denounced the need for the Australian Olympic Committee to set specific numbers on how many Medals would be won at the Beijing Olympic Games. She felt there was no need for 'pressure' for athletes to live up to certain expectations.
I disagree on two counts.
1. Pressure is something we place on ourselves by how we direct our thinking. Putting a figure on a desired outcome can have one person thinking 'towards' that goal with a sense of possibility - I/we CAN win x medals. Contrast that with another person who thinks with 'away' motivation and feels a sense of necessity - I/we HAVE to win x medals. This is often associated with an underlying question - what if I don't? or an underlying fear - what if I can't?
2. A specific and measurable figure gives one a specific target to work towards. If one doesn't reach that figure, it doesn't have to mean 'failure'. If Australia win 7 Gold rather than a projected 8 Gold in the swimming pool, it is still a success. By going for the specific figure an individual or a team has something on which to guage performance. How do you know how hard to train, how much work to do unless you know what you are aiming for.
Magic can happen too when you start being more specific. Think of your unconscious mind like a 7-8 year old child who needs to know EXACTLY what it is you want to direct you towards results. Do you want to be successful? How successful? What does that mean for you? You can find out more on how the unconscious mind determines your results at www.annetteffect.com.au

Think your Way to Sporting Success

Do you beleive in your dreams and goals? Does part of you want to win and be a champion, and the other part thinks that it's too hard, or not possible for you? Our mind is a wondrous thing, and whatever you do think about your ability is generally true. It has been said, whether you think you can or think you can't, you are correct.
Results Coaching and neuro-linguistic programming is an effective way to blast through limiting thought patterns and set you on the way to your Sporting success. For example, a coach can see whether you are thinking about the results you want to create or the results you don't want. Are you motivated by the joy of winning or by the fear of losing? These are two very different motivations and while the fear of losing might work for a while, it doesn't produce the same consistent results that can be achieved when you are motivated to win.
When you go out to play or perform, what pictures do you create in your mind? This will give you some idea of whether you are motivated towards pleasure, or motivated away from pain. Start to pay attention and see what works better for you.
You can find out more on this tip, and others in my new e-book 5 Keys to Think your Way to Sporting Success. Get a free copy when you register for the next teleseminar at http://myoptinpage.com/?pid=3569995

Find out from Natalie Cook how a champion thinks!

Ever wondered what it takes to win Gold or to win at the highest level? Why not find out and get your own question answered by Gold medal winner, Natalie Cook, during a 60 minute FREE teleseminar. You can find out more at http://tinyurl.com/2b9tpf including details and access to a free e-book - "5 Key to Think your Way to Sporting Success."
Don't miss out on this opportunity. You can choose to listen live or to the replay after, and via phone or webcast. The choice is yours.

How can you change your life to get results?

We are now a month into a new year. What have you done in regard to any new year's resolutions? Do you even remember them? One of the keys to change is WANTING to change and for this, you need to have good reasons to change. What is your WHY? Be very clear on the benefits of changing your habits and also look at the cost of not changing. Doing this can provide you with the leverage to make changes in your life that will produce better results.
Consider what habits you have that are holding you back. Just changing one habit could make a significant difference. Example, how are you spending your time? Perhaps you have a budget for your money, and do you also have a budget for your time? When you decide on the results you want to have in life, it becomes more clear what you need to do to move forward. The change starts within you.

Wayne Carey and life after sport

It's disappointing that some of our most successful athletes become undone in their own personal lives. Wayne Carey is another example of a sportsman that is unable to translate success on the sports field to success off. With recent events there has been much speculation by various experts. Speculation includes Wayne Carey's consideration for AFL's Hall of Fame.
It begs the question: Is the Hall of Fame confined to feats on the sporting field OR should it recognise athletes with champion qualities off the field too?
Perhaps if the Hall of Fame (in any sport) considers the latter, then the next generation of sportsmen may aspire for greatness in all facets of their life.
I believe its important for athletes to think about goals beyond their sport. I'm talking about goals that compliment sporting success and these can address personal, career and financial areas of life. Goals provide direction and when you set them, write them down, and then commmit to them, you will define your path. Your actions and behaviour will reflect your goal. By thinking about the type of person you want to BE, and setting boundaries on how you will act, then you can get greater results in life.
Create balance in your life and think about what else you want to achieve in life. How do you want to be remembered?

Want to beat the odds like Jo-WilfriedTsonga?

Do you want to have the mindset to go for winners in your game, regardless whether you are winning or losing? Do you want to beat teams/players with more experience or greater ranking than you? Do you want to defy the nay-sayers in your life who say you can't be the best.
I’m glad you are reading this, so you can register for this week’s Teleseminar where you can learn more about developing the mindset of a champion?

By tuning in to the teleseminar on 30 January at 7.00pm AEDST over the phone or via webcast you will be taking another step forward to achieving your dreams.

I will discuss how your thinking might be helping you or hindering you towards success. Find out how to master your mind to get even better results.

You will get details of the call when you register. Click on Ask Annette or go to http://tinyurl.com/ysr3mz You can even ask me a question on what you would like to know about the Developing the Mindset of a Champion.

Register NOW, it's FREE, so you can say you did take the opportunities to be a better player/athlete..
Speak to you then.

Australian Open Tennis - battle of the mindset

I love watching any sport at the highest level and am keenly watching the Australian Open Tennis. Roger Federer appears a little more vulnerable - can he continue his run of Australian Open titles? Nadal and surprise semi-finalist Tsonga may prove worthy challengers for the title. I watch more than the game. I am particularly interested in seeing how athletes deal mentally with the pressure of the tough matches, especially as a tournament progresses. Does the player dare to go for the lines with the same confidence each and every point, or does the standing of the match determine his/her confidence.
A champion with 'emotional mastery' will be in charge of their emotional state to play optimally each and every point. The optimal emotional state will differ player to player. For example, Baghdatis appears to play better when he is fired up, and when he loses that, so does his game. Federer has a much more focused and calm emotion, and, it looks to me, that he doesn't even enjoy the game, so steady is his focus. His ready smile on completion of the match when he wins suggests differently.
Being able to reproduce the same emotion, whether you've won or lost a point, played a good or a bad shot, will propel you towards success in any sport. It's your choice, when you know how. Ask me how!!

What makes a Champion?

I'm really interested to know what you believe about success in sport. What does it take to succeed in sport? Do you believe that you need a certain quality, a certain build, a certain attitude to be the best?
Do you base future success on what you have done in the past? For example, if didn't play sport when your were younger, does this put you at a disadvantage or does it put you at an advantage? Mmmm, interesting.
Does which school you went to, where you live or where you were brought up make a difference?
Have a think about what you believe and then consider - "Does this belief empower you towards your goals or doesn't hinder you?"
I look forward to receiving your responses. You can also share your thoughts with me at AskAnnette - see the links section.

Sledging in Australia Cricket - is it necessary?

I read an interesting editorial today in The Courier Mail by Robert Craddock where he criticised the Australian Cricket team for writing a pledge - the Spirit of Cricket pledge. The pledge is basically a commitment to values and behaviour by which the team members commit to adhering - both on the field and off. The team were reported to have had a meeting yesterday to re-inforce the pledge, in light of recent damaging reports on their sledging and other alledged displays of poor sportsmanship.
Robert Craddock implied that there was no room in sport for being nice. That the success of the Australian team is based on being 'hard-edged, sharp-tongued, no-nonsense.....who do what they have to do to win.' Robert went on to cite other known sporting team that are similarly not known for 'being nice'.
My issue with the article is that Robert perpetuates the myth that you have to be a certain charachteristic to be a winner. That's like saying you have to have the ruthlessness of Donald Trump to be rich. This is the basis of limiting beliefs that can stop a person being truly successful, if they buy into the myth. "I don't WANT to be nasty or ruthless, and therefore, I don't want to be successful."
What if you start looking at ALL the winning teams and individuals that ARE NICE also. That can win consistently and do it professionally and with respect for their opposition.
Sure you need to have a determination to WIN, and to do whatever it takes to win, but I don't regard sledging and poor sportsmanship, as a necessary formula to winning.

First teleseminar for 2008

I’m glad you’re reading this because I want you to know about how you can learn more about developing the mindset of a champion.

Whether you are an athlete, or looking to ‘win’ in other areas of life, you will gain something by dialling in to my next teleseminar on 30 January.

I will meet you by phone and discuss how your thinking might be helping you or hindering you towards success. Find out how to master your mind to get better results.

If you could ask me one question about developing the mindset of a champion, what would it be? I have set up an Ask Campaign for the 30 January teleseminar so that you can ask me that important question.

Go to http://tinyurl.com/ysr3mz to Ask Annette your question and register your place

There are limited places on the call so please sign up today to make sure you get in on the call. I look forward to receiving your question.
Pps Please tell all your friends. I’m sure they will all be interested to hear how they too can improve their results.

Armand Morin's Internet Marketing Explained

I am learning all the time about the potential of the internet and ways to create wealth. I am still pretty new, so I find Armand Morin's information and products an easy way to get started. Find out you too can generate money while you sleep.
So what will be "hot" in 2008. One of the most common topics has been VIDEO. That's no surprise really but I think thedifference is HOW video will be used.
That's why so many are talking about thesignificance of this video: http://www.therelaunch.com/?af=425041
It gives tremendous insight regarding the emergence of entertainment and marketing working together in the same video. Armand Morin has put together something very similar to a "movie trailer" which is generating a lot of excitement - especiallywhen people are finding out that it leads to a TON of free video lessons. So here's what you should do:
1) Watch the video and learn:http://www.therelaunch.com/?af=425041
Notice how it creates an element of"curiosity" and draws you in - very powerful for maximizing conversion. Ask yourself this - how could I use a similar approach in 2008?
2) Claim your free video content
After you watch the video you'll be redirected to an optin page where you can claim an entire month's worth of free videocontent. Armand has already posted 6 videos and he's adding more throughout the month of January.

What's happening in 2008

It's already the 2nd week of the year and I hope you have hit the year running. Those of you who switched off entirely during the holiday season might have a rude shock getting back into the swing of things. Have you kept up momentum on your goals? When on holiday it helps to just check in every now and then to keep the ball rolling. Once the ball stops it's harder to get it going again.

I've been keeping busy looking at how I can connect with more people online though teleseminars. I'm ecstatic that I joined up to learn from Alex Mandossian http://www.teleseminarsecrets.com/ and I am gearing up to run my own teleseminars. Details coming very soon.