Archive - November, 2008

"Thank and Grow Rich"

Remember the classic little book, Think and Grow Rich?  I was reading an ezine today in which Rebecca Fine used this subtle twist on that title — Thank and Grow Rich.  Isn’t that a great thought?  Do you think you really could “thank” your way to growing rich?

It seems our ability to express gratitude is much like a muscle.  The more we use and exercise it, the easier it becomes – and the more we find ourselves just naturally sharing gratitude.  Try it out for a week or two.  Show sincere appreciation to everyone who comes in your path.  The waitress who re-fills your water glass, the mailman who brings a package to your door, the dry-cleaning attendant who hands you your shirts, and the speaker who just inspired you with her message.  And yes, we know that expressed gratitude does tend to return to us, multiplied.

I'm Struggling – How Can I Help You?

USA Today reports that companies across the country are slashing bonuses, severance packages and pay raises.  40% of surveyed companies plan to reduce the amount allotted for raises in 09 and 62% say they will be giving smaller bonuses than last year.  The number of companies holding holiday parties is the lowest in reportable history.  American Express just canceled its annual year-end bash.  Companies that normally avoid any layoffs are now compiling lists of who will be let go.  Last Friday Focus on the Family announced they are eliminating 202 jobs, the biggest layoff in their history. 

Vending — an easy $15-20K a year?

Here’s an honest question from a 48 Days reader:

I have come across an opportunity to buy 100 bubble gum machines (4 tall spiral and many double headed) for $17k. They bring in around 15k-20k a year.  I have never bought anything like this, can you please give any advicbubble-gum-machinee you may have and if this is a good investment and what other questions I should ask the seller.  Thank you so much..I didn’t know who else to turn to.

Michelle,

How do I launch a magazine?

This week a reader asked, “How do I launch a magazine?”  I have watched countless people with good hearts and intentions launch magazines, using borrowed family and friends’ money, only to lose it all and fade from view six months later.

There are three legs to any successful magazine.

  1. Ad Sales.  This is the biggie – look at O magazine.  It’s 80% ads.
  2. Newstand Sales.  Yes it’s challenging to get into the big racks at Barnes & Noble but without this, you will not likely survive.

I Wasn't Losing……..

Yesterday morning I saw Ted Turner being interviewed on CNN.  The interviewer asked Ted how he kept going when his sailing team lost year after year and his baseball team was in last place for four years before going on to win the World Series.  Without any hesitation Ted said, “I wasn’t losing, I was learning how to win.” 

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