Unexpected Gifts

When I created the Random Acts of Kindle Kindness to celebrate the one year anniversary of the events that became Don't Die with Your Song Unsung, I had some strategic goals for the book and the campaign. 

I did not achieve those goals.

Instead, the campaign is achieving goals I could never have planned to achieve -- that is why success is so difficult to define.  This is a note I received today:

Hi Andrea . I wanted to share with you what fun we had today at school.  In keeping with our delivering happiness core value, I was sharing with my students our chance meeting, synchronicity, Gary's video and about the book.  

We had a few guests visiting and decided to give them a wow experience by telling them the story and gifting them with the electronic book that you were so kind to donate.  I even ironed the dollar bills so they would look nice and crisp!!  We then asked them to pay it forward and deliver a smile to someone else.   

They loved the experience!  It was a great day!  Thank you Thank you Thank you a hundred (or two :) times over!

May God Bless You have blessed us and more.

What can I say to such a note but bach at you with a bigger Thank You!  Andrea T. Goeglein, PhD
The photo of the hummingbird was taken by Gary Little(c) all rights reserved. 
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Random Act of Kindle Kindness

As August, 2012 comes to a close with the light of a Blue Moon, I wanted to re-post this offer that expires this Monday.  Have a safe and wonderful Labor Day Weekend.  If your travels take you to Queens, NY Resorts World New York, Gary Russo will be performing free at the 360 Bar, Sunday and Monday 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.  You will have more fun that a person should outside of Las Vegas!

Growing up on the East Coast my Dad and Uncles had a fun habit.  When we were caravaning to some family outing, the lead car generally paid for the cars behind.  When I began to drive, I continued the practice with total strangers.  Well, maybe if truth be told, as a teenager if I spotted a car driven by a hot guy, I would pay his toll!  Never got a phone number, but did get lots of hot smiles.

Since smiling started the Don't Die with Your Song Unsung story, I decided to create a Random Act of Kindle Kindness.  First, I priced the Kindle edition of the book at a silly .99 cents for the month of August 2012.  Happy anniversary Gary Russo!  Then I started going through my address book and randomly sending a copy a day to someone in one of my many, many circles.  In the gift message box I put this message:

You have received this book as a random act of Kindle Kindness celebrating the anniversary of the events in the book.  If you can, please pay-it-forward by purchasing a Kindle edition for a silly .99 cents for someone.  If not, please remember to smile as you enjoy this gift.  Thank you.   

I just started yesterday...and it has been so much fun -- and cheaper than a toll costs today.  Disclaimer:  I developed this process to help drive the SEO on the book.  If you can, try it.  At a minimum you will see how little it takes to smile and elevate your mood. 

Here is the direct link to Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Your-Song-Unsung-ebook/dp/B006EJFM36/ref=tmm_kin_title_0 

I would love to know how this makes you feel.  Please drop me a note at DrSuccess@ServingSuccess.com  Thank you, Andrea Goeglein

V is for Vitality

Nothing brings back your vitality than vacation.  So that is what I am doing for the next eight days -- mixed with just the right amount of business connections and re-connections each day. 

Most of all I plan to keep up my Random Acts of Kindle Kindness.  It has been a delight to hear the responses no only to the book, but to how nice it was to hear from me (or the troops of others doing the same thing).  Such a inexpensive way to make people smile. 

While I am gone, enjoy this interview with Susan Brender of V is for Vitality

http://www.womensradio.com/2012/08/v-for-vitality-3/

Remember Success books, and especially Don't Die with Your Song Unsung, can be the quick reminder of how to feel vitality again. 

Thank you. 

What a difference a year makes

One year ago today, the events that became the book Don't Die with Your Song Unsung, began to unfold. 

To celebrate, the Kindle Edition of Don't Die Unsung will be available for FREE if you are an Amazon Prime member -- or for the silly price of 99 Cents if you are not -- for the entire month of August. 
Here is a review written by one of the many people who were touched by Gary Russo's sidewalk performances and the viral storm that followed.  Thank you Roger Lambrou.  Thank you The Zen Speaker, Amy Ayoub.  Thank you David Fischer.  Thank you Gary Russo. 

Forgiveness and Spring Renewal

Easter and Passover on the same weekend – a clear sign it is the season of renewal.  The word ‘forgiveness’ has come into my communications and readings so much this week that I wanted to share how diverse and versatile the action of forgiveness is in our lives.

First, I had the opportunity to review author Kim Michelle Richardson’s blog and book, The Unbroken Child.  Her message is compelling and simple:  The Catholic Church has made some major mistakes.  The leadership continues to forget to ask for forgiveness.
Kim was the journalist who wrote last week’s Huffington Post follow up on Gary Russo.  Of course, forgiveness is a large part of the story in Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung.

Then – and I really enjoy when this happens – I received a message from another Huffington Post journalist, Anne Naylor about her Sunday article:  Get Addicted…To Forgiving Yourself.  I strongly suggest you read this article.  After reading it, I was called to search for an article I had written in September 2010 for the EPrescott News:  Forgiveness – The Key to Business Success.
When one word or thought keeps crossing the path of my days, I know it is time to hold that word for guidance. 

Dr. Success Challenge:  This is the question I will hold for myself.  I suggest you do the same:  What ‘forgiveness’ do I have to experience for myself, for the companies and institutions in my life, and for individuals in my life?

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Huffington Post Thank You

Don't Die with Your Song Unsung made the Huffington Post today.  Thank you Kim Michele Richardson. 

Books, Publishing and Writing

Notice the title of this post.  There is a reason, of course. 

As I prepare for my upcoming Don't Die with Your Book Inside You Workshop (Saturday, March 31, 9:30  a.m. - 5:00 p.m. - 702 243 4040 to register), Gary Russo sent me this Huffington Post article about what it took to get an outstanding book, The Unbreakable Child, to the public. 

Read it to experience just what it takes to succeed as a published author.  And remember, it is not about getting published, it is about writing your story no matter what happens with publishing.

Every life starts with a single breath.  Every book begins with a single written word. 

And it is done!  Andrea

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Good Multiplies Part 2

Nothing like instant gratification to inspire me to keep moving forward.  That is particularly true when it seems like I am investing more time walking into a wind storm than being lifted by a wind at my back.

Last night I received this message from the person who got her copy of Don't Die at The Shade hotel and then purchased and additional copy for a friend in transition:

Thanks for sharing Andrea. . .And btw, coincidentally just today my friend arranged to start working part time so she can focus on what's important to her.

I love the way universe works.

All I can say is to that is I do too!  Enjoy your day, Andrea Goeglein, PhD
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Good Multiplies

At the launch of Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung I made a request to friends and business associates to please purchase a copy of the book on Amazon.

One friend, Micheal Zislis, owner of The Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach, responded to that request with an order for enough copies of the book for each of his hotel rooms.  I was, of course, grateful beyond words for such a generous gesture of support. 

Then yesterday I was able to experience the wonderful feeling of good deeds multiplying.  Here is what happened.  I received an order for a book through Amazon.  I noticed that the purchaser was actually ordering the book as a gift.  I wrote an email to thank the purchaser.  This was the message I received back:

Not sure if this will actually reach you Andrea, but I'd like to say your book was on the nightstand at hotel Shade in Manhattan Beach while recently visiting a friend. I am at a point of transition in life and my friend is unhappy in her work. I was in town visiting and felt it serendipitous that the book was there. So, thank you. I hope we are able to find our dreams and make them come true. Gratefully, XXX

Did a dream come true?  Yes.  My dream for the Don’t Die series has always been for books to be read, inspiring the reader to take action, and then pass the book along.  An additional dream I have had was for companies to use the books to promote their businesses – each time a customer sees the book they remember the great experience they had with the company that gave them the book.  Until now that latter part was just a dream.  I believed it was doable, but had no proof.  Now the dream of using Don’tDie books to promote good companies has become a reality. 

A big thank you to all involved in making that dream come true, Andrea

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The Work of the Ego

Being given a copy of Desideratra and learning that the author, Max Ehrmann (1872-1945) was generally unknown for this beautiful piece of work during his lifetime, has allowed me to consider the concept of the ego – and specifically, my ego. 

During the last week, I was approached by a woman named Nancy.  Nancy had been present at a GaryRusso performance and purchased two copies of Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung. 

Nancy told me one copy was for her and her husband and the other copy was for her son who was facing some professional life challenges.  She sent the book to her son and received a version of this message:  This is just what I needed.  I needed to remember how I see a situation is how the situation will appear.  If I think everyone I work is a jerk, they are jerks.  If I think I won’t be promoted because others are getting unfair advantages, I will make myself angry and probably not do as good a job – thereby not get promoted! 

Nancy’s son went on to say that reading Don’t Die helped him to remember he has the ability to manage his thoughts and he has the ability to create his present.  He asked his Mom to keep sending more positive books and materials. 

I will admit it feels wonderful when someone shares how my work has positively impacted their life.  Yet, I know my real growth will come when I can feel good about the work I have contributed even if I never know the impact it has or will have on others.  Let’s just say I – and my ego -- have some work to do!

Thank you, Andrea T. Goeglein, PhD

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MetroJam and Gary Russo

Just a quick reminder for all those in NYC area.  Gary Russo will be the special guest at MetroJam tonight, Tuesday, February 21. 

And of course if you don't have your copy of Don't Die with Your Song Unsung, get one and bring it along so he can sign for you in person! 

Enjoy, Andrea
Direct information about Metro Jam:www.jennaesposito.com/metrojam 

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Winter

Giant Leap Consulting posted the following in their newsletter:

During the winter months, our pace often slows down. If we look around us, nature seems to do it too. Animals hibernate, trees go bare, growth slows down and prepares for the warmth of Spring. Now is also an opportune time for organizations to consider what they want to achieve in the new year. What mark will you make? What innovation will you try? What risk will you take?

At Giant Leap, we believe in the value of planning. Our experience has helped us to develop a strong model for strategic planning and implementation. This month, we want to share some of those resources with you.

This message is an organizational version of what Gary Russo experienced in the ‘winter’ of his life – and the actions he took lead to an incredible spring, summer and fall.  Read how Gary transformed his life in Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung. 

If your need is organizational, I suggest you check out Giant Leap Consulting.   I highly recommend them. 

Dr. Success Challenge:  The challenge is to remember: What you begin in winter, determines how you spring into action and harvest your visions. 

Thank you, Andrea Goeglein, PhD

866-975-3777

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Blue Note and Gary Russo

How is this for an incredible endorsement of Gary Russo's singing and entertainment power?  This came from the of the famed Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City.

"Over the years, the Blue Note has given a shot to a number of artists.  Though only a select few like Michael Buble have become household names, we
consider the Blue Note to be a place that fosters up-and-coming talent. Gary was all over the news for serenading New Yorkers at the 2nd avenue subway
construction site, and when we were approached about giving him an opening slot, we were more than happy to give him a chance. Gary has a warm voice, all of the qualities of a great performer, and an inspiring story that, thanks to Inside Edition, Americans can identify with and appreciate. We
hope Gary continues to sing - the sky's the limit!"
- Jonathan Kantor, Publicist & Marketing Director, Blue Note Jazz Club

And, of course, you can read that inspiring story in Don't Die with Your Song Unsung!  Even if you do not buy the book, you can start putting action to your dreams by downloading the free journal pages from the book at www.ServingSuccess.com 

Thank you, Andrea Goeglein, Phd
DrSuccess@ServingSuccess.com

Hope to Recession-Weary Workers

Gary Russo, a construction-worker-turned-singing-sensation, releases Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung, a small book that translates his remarkable story into inspiration for every worker who feels stuck in a job and unable to pursue personal dreams.

NEW YORK, New York – November 7, 2011: Blue-collar worker Gary Russo literally rose above the noise and heat of his subway-construction job in New York to pursue his dream of singing in public. In Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung (ServingSuccess Publishing, November 2011, $15.95), a new book co-authored with Dr. Andrea T. Goeglein, he inspires others to pursue their dreams.

Recession-weary workers nationwide could use this inspiration. A recent Gallup poll showed that roughly one-third of U.S. workers are dissatisfied by the amount of on-the-job stress and 26% cite dissatisfaction stemming from a lack of promotion opportunities.[i] Worn down by a perceived lack of opportunity in a stressful workplace, workers have most likely shelved their dreams.

Russo’s story and Goeglein’s personal development commentary in Don’t Die with Your Song Unsung tell readers that they don’t have to settle for where they are. “I worked for a great company, but I was just going through the motions,” reflects Russo. “My life changed completely in 31 days. Now my goal is to help others understand that they, too, can pursue their dreams while also holding down a job and paying the bills. My message is: If I could do it, you can, too.”

Russo transformed what could have been a flash of fame into a lifetime commitment to help others smile, dream, and know the power of love. He stepped onto the main stage of his life through the magic of an August 2, 2011 YouTube video. Known as the “2nd Avenue Subway Sinatra,” Gary has shared his song and live-your-dreams message through media outlets such as Good Morning America, World News Tonight with Brian Williams, and Inside Edition, and at premier venues including New York’s famous Blue Note Jazz Club, Rockefeller Center, and the ING New York City Marathon start line, where a television commentator hailed him as “a New York legend.”

Andrea T. Goeglein, PhD, aka Dr. Success^®, is founder, curator, and author of the Don’t Die, Small Book, Big Impact personal development series. As an expert in Positive Psychology, she translates true stories into actionable inspiration. Andrea frequently appears on KAZ-TV’s AM Arizona; she has also appeared on the Rachael Ray show and on major radio networks across the nation.

Don’t Die books make affordable, high-impact gifts that convey support and encouragement during these tough times. They are available for purchase at Amazon and at http://www.ServingSuccess.com/

---

[i] Survey conducted August 10 – 14, 2011. Full results can be found at: http://www.gallup.com/poll/149324/workers-unhappy-health-benefits-promotions.aspx

Making Lists

Tis' the Season...I will not comment on my feeling about the commericalization of the season we are entering.  Instead, I will focus on a great habit that has come from this season and how to use it move forward with your life goals.  The habit I am referring to is the making of lists. 

During the next few weeks we will be making lists for all the extra groceries we need to prepare the larger than usual meals, all the gifts we will purchase to spread joy (and increase stress) and all the things we want to do differently come the first of the New Year. 

Dr. Success Challenge:  Before you make the lists mentioned above, made a list of all the things that went well in 2011.  If a negative remembrance comes into your mind, honor it, write it down, then cross it out and keep thinking about the things that went well.  Example:

Got a promotion.
Closed a major sale I had been working on for two years.
Took a well needed vacation that was paid for before I ever left home with the sales commission.
Car was stolen from airport parking lot.  (Do I need to tell you to cross that one out?)
Had to spend the first few days I was back from my vacation filling out insurance claims. (Cross out!)
Realized I had insurance and will be getting a newer car because prices are lower this time of year.

There you go...start making your list...then you will be ready for the holidays.  Oh, and of course, if you want a great gift idea for under $20 for anyone who feels stuck in a rut - Don't Die with Your Song Unsung is available on Amazon. 

Remember, everytime you take an action to help your self live a life of success, you are already living a successful life.  A successful life is a life lived moment-by-moment. 

Thank you, Andrea

Setting Goals and Failure

This week I set an ambitious goal.  I wanted my newest book, Don’t Die with YourSong Unsung, with Gary Russo, to make the top of the Amazon chart in self-help book sales. 

I set a goal.

I asked for help.
The help and love showed up from all over the place.
The goal was not met.

Dr. Success Challenge:  How do you remain optimistic when a goal is not met?

One solution:  Do a gap analysis of the situation. 

• The first gap you analyze is the goal gap.  The goal gap is a simple question “Is the goal one that I really want to achieve?” 
• If the answer is yes, then you do step two of a gap analysis: you measure the original goal against the result and determine the ‘gap’. 
• Next, you reset the goal to fill the gap and take the necessary action or actions to reach the goal. 

And always remember the words of Henry Ford: Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.

Thank you to all who supported our initial goal.  Andrea

 

 

 

Don't Die Thank You

2nd Avenue Subway Sinatra Book Signing

2nd Avenue Sinatra Book Launch

Read Bounce 110811 Gary Russo
Online Publishing from YUDU

Thirty One Days

I journal each morning (and of course you do too).  I have a ritual,  at the end of each month I list the good things that occurred during that month.  I don't list the negative things that have happened unless I have transformed the experience and have begun to use it in a positive way.  Today is August 31 so I made my list.  Then I went to YouTube to record the number of hits Gary Russo has received since the original video was posted on August 1.

Here is the number:  1,005,417  8/31/11 8:30 a.m. PST

That is the power of the internet.  That is the power of a spirit would not be stopped.  That is only the beginning.  Congratulations Gary.  Thank you Fish for creating the video.