Frank Kern needs your help?

Yes, it's true.  My good friend Frank Kern, the internet marketing genius needs your help.  What Frank is looking for are personal success stories.  Got one?  Submit it here and if Frank likes it he may give you a call and include your story in a free success story book he is creating.  Plus here's a way to promote your website or business for free, but only if you want to. No pressure.  By the way, believe it or not, Frank is NOT SELLING ANYTHING. Don't believe me?  Check it out for yourself with Frank's latest video.  

WARNING! THIS IS VERY COOL INFORMATION.  IT COULD RADICALLY ALTER YOUR MIND AND CREATE MASSIVE SUCCESS... or not.

Click this link if you dare! >  FRANKKERNSUCCESS.COM

New Series- Fran Tarkenton, "One More Customer"

My business partner, Fran Tarkenton has a new video series.  It's called One More Customer.   This video he calls Silver Bullets.

Take just 2 minutes to get some solid advice from a successful entrepreneur who also happened to play a little football: 

CLICK HERE AND LEARN SOMETHING NEW FROM ONE OF THE BEST BUSINESS PEOPLE I'VE EVER MET...

The Great Les Brown! Who Are You Associating With?

Here's today's "Motivational Minute"

Heard Any Singing Lately?

In the busyness and craziness of our hurried twenty-first century lives, I want to share with you today the great and awe inspiring words of Dr. Howard Thurman.

"There must be always remaining in every man's life some place for the singing of angels, some place for that which in itself is breathlessly beautiful and, by an inherent prerogative, throws all the rest of life into a new and creative relatedness, something that gathers up in itself all the freshets of experience from drab and commonplace areas of living and glows in one bright white light of penetrating beauty and meaning-then passes. The commonplace is shot through with new glory; old burdens become lighter; deep and ancient wounds lose much of their old, old hurting. A crown is placed over our heads that for the rest of our lives we are trying to grow tall enough to wear. Despite all the crassness of life, despite all the hardness of life, despite all the harsh discords of life, life is saved by the singing of angels."

-From Deep Is the Hunger by Howard Thurman

Howard Thurman (1899 – April 10, 1981) was an influential
American author, philosopher, theologian, educator and civil
rights leader. He was Dean of Theology and the chapels at Howard
University and Boston University for more than two decades,
wrote 20 books, and in 1944 helped found the first racially integrated, multicultural church in the United States.

No Arms, No Legs? No Worries... This guy is Unbelievable!

How are you feeling about life right now?  The recession got you down?                                              

Are you angry at your situation? 

Let's be honest.  Positive thinking doesn't always work when "stuff" happens.  "The Secret" doesn't really work because it's only half true and as one successful entrepreneur said, "it's a load of _________" (you can fill in the blank with your favorite word.) 

Sometimes its good to see the world through someone else s eyes.

This video is so shocking I had to share it with you.

Nick Vujicic has an amazing life. CLICK HERE!

PS. WARNING.  DO NOT WATCH THIS UNLESS 

YOU WANT TO EXPERIENCE CHANGE.

Comments?

VAN GOGH SAYS...

"Your profession is not your job.  Your profession is what you're put on this earth to do with such passion and intensity it becomes spiritual in calling."

Vincent Van Gogh

"Conscience is a man's compass."

"Do not quench your inspiration and your imagination; do not become the slave of your model." 

"Even the knowledge of my own fallibility cannot keep me from making mistakes. Only when I fall do I get up again." 

"Great things are done by a series of small things brought together." 

"I am still far from being what I want to be, but with God's help I shall succeed." 

"I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." 

"Love always brings difficulties, that is true, but the good side of it is that it gives energy." 

"One must work and dare if one really wants to live." 

"Painting is a faith, and it imposes the duty to disregard public opinion."

"The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore." 

What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?
                                     

I TOLD YOU SO!

If you missed the premier of Tony Robbins new TV show on NBC called Breakthrough, you can watch it any time at www.NBC.com .  Scroll down to Tony and the Breakthrough link.

Once you see it I think you will agree that it is the best reality show on TV. The good news is that Episode Two will be on next Tuesday night on NBC at 8 PM Eastern/ 7 PM Central.  Seriously friends, this is not just entertainment, it is about genuine life change and it will inspire you and challenge you  to be all you can be. (unless, of course, you are content with your life now and don't plan on making any improvements) 

Watch it first, then post your comments below.  I value your opinion (at least most of you) 

Watch"Breakthrough" trailer-tonight on NBC: Tony Robbins reality TV show‏

Starting TONIGHT!  You have just six opportunities to see how the impossible becomes possible. Experience your Breakthrough starting Tuesday, July 27 at 8/7 CST on NBC. I don't know if you are a fan of Anthony Robbins or not. You may remember his role in the comedy movie "Shallow Hal" starring Jack Black. Tony has some pretty impressive credentials. Listen...I watched this trailer and you really need to check it out.  Just click the link below. No excuses... just watch it.   "Phenomenal . . . Breakthrough is beyond imagination!   Tony Robbins has created a television masterpiece...  riveting, wonderful, inspiring and humbling!"   -Larry King "...I was left feeling completely inspired & uplifted."  - Hugh Jackman "It illuminates the humbling truth that many of the "problems" we all struggle with are traps of your own making... Renew your faith that you can shape your own happiness with a little courage."  -Edward Norton, Actor, Screenwriter and Director WATCH THE TRAILER NOW

Not just another positive thinking show In his new NBC summer series, bestselling author and inspirational speaker Tony Robbins uses his extraordinary skills to help deserving individuals who have suffered terrible setbacks in "Breakthrough with Tony Robbins." And while "Breakthrough with Tony Robbins" is a show that deals with everyday people, Robbins also serves as an adviser to Fortune 500 executives and sports professionals. In his book, Awaken the Giant Within, Robbins recounts meetings with Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev, Bill Clinton, Margaret Thatcher, and Princess Diana. In the books Personal Power and Get the Edge Robbins says that celebrities who appeared in his infomercials, did so without compensation. Among others, these include Fran Tarkenton, Quincy Jones, Pamela Anderson and others. Robbins has counseled sports professionals such as Greg Norman, Serena Williams, Mike Tyson, Chuck Liddell, Diego Sanchez and Andre Agassi and sports teams such as the Los Angeles Kings. Robbins is a member of the Advisory Board of HealthCorps. The HealthCorps in-school program shows teens practical life skills through interactive seminars focused on the value and power of students' bodies and minds. HealthCorps expects teens to become educated consumers and health activists, and teens are encouraged to develop positive behavioral shifts that enhance self-esteem. With the help of Dr. Mehmet Oz, HealthCorps is also fighting obesity among the nations' youth.   WATCH THE TRAILER NOW

Thanks for your friendship. As you can tell, I'm pretty passionate about encouraging small business owners, sales people, entrepreneurs and everyone else.  Please, don't take my word for it.  This is valuable stuff.  Check it out and decide for yourself. Have a great day! Warm Regards, Dave WATCH THE TRAILER NOW David Henning Tarkenton Financial Financial Solutions:  www.GrowMyDollars.com 5 minute videos helping people make smart decisions with their money Dave TV

Valuable "How To" Videos Are Now Online

What if there were a way to educate yourself on important topics in just 5 minutes?  

I've put together a series of "How To" videos that I think you will find helpful. 

Choose from one of nine videos all designed to give you extremely important information that you didn't learn in high school or college.

Click here:

Financial Solutions: The Five Minute Videos That Help You Make Smart Decisions With Your Money

Is a 401k Your Best Retirement Option?

I found this video from CBS 60 Minutes on You Tube.  Take about 12 minutes if you would like to hear some very enlightening truths about 401k's and how they may not be your safest choice for your retirement.  See for yourself, then you decide.  

It's your retirement.

  A Brief History Of: The 401(k)

"Forget about rescuing banks or unfreezing credit markets. The question on most minds amid the recent market chaos: What does this mean for my 401(k)? With some $3 trillion invested, these plans are the most popular retirement-savings vehicle in the U.S.--and account for a big chunk of the $2 trillion the crisis has wiped from American nest eggs.

The 401(k) plan--named for a section of the Internal Revenue Code--came about thanks to a 1978 congressional provision intended to offer taxpayers breaks on deferred income. In 1980, while trying to streamline a client's profit-sharing plan, benefits consultant Ted Benna realized that the code could be used to create an easy, tax-friendly vehicle for employees to save for retirement. The client passed, but the idea took off: there are now more than 65 million 401(k) accounts, which allow participants to invest in stocks and bonds, often with matching funds from employers--all at a lower cost than the pension plans that 401(k)s replaced. The accounts helped spark a financial-industry boom, funneling billions from under retirement savers' mattresses into mutual funds and the stock market.

But 401(k)s didn't yield smarter investors. In the 1990s, employees at some fast-growing companies kept up to 90% of their 401(k)s in company stock. When Enron and WorldCom tanked in 2001 and '02, they each took more than $800 million in savings with them, prompting landmark lawsuits. The current meltdown has skimmed about 20% from 401(k)s since 2007 and ignited debate over their retirement-income reliability. "Unlike Wall Street executives, American families don't have a golden parachute to fall back on," said California Representative George Miller at an Oct. 7 hearing on retirement savings. At least they still have mattresses."  By Alyssa Fetini, Time Magazine, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008 

So What's Your Excuse? Butch Lumpkin Didn't Make Any

Okay, so my neighbor across the hall in the office building where I spend most of my life sends me this "interesting, must see" video clip.

This amidst 68 emails that came in just this morning.

If you're like me, you get a gazillion forwarded emails a day with someone wanting you to "check this out." Usually it's a ridiculous political opinion forwarded from "who knows where" attempting to raise your blood pressure and turn up the "anger and outrage thermostat" a notch or two.

Or worse yet, they want you to forward it to ten people you know for good luck or blessing and if not, who knows, you might be in for something dreadful.

Well, I stopped playing that game a long time ago, if I ever really did. You see, I choose who and what to let into my brain. Without being "pie in the sky" or "pollyanna," I choose to try to see the best in others and the best in even bad situations. Medical and University research confirms it's better and a healthier lifestyle.

It has been shown in clinical studies that unresolved bitterness, anger and unforgiveness does not hurt the person or issue that has ticked you off or made your blood boil. Not one bit.

Who it does hurt is you. Don't take my word for it. Do your own due diligence and PRIMARY research. There are cases of high blood pressure, strokes, heart attack and even cancer that can be traced back to what I call "Ebenezer Scrooge Syndrome," or E.S.S. ( I just made that up.)

So what's my point? Thanks for asking. If you think you have an excuse for not being successful, or feel you've gotten a raw deal... or better yet... you're waiting for the federal government to take care of you or improve your situation....

Then watch this incredible video from a guy who makes no excuses and has taken what he's been dealt in life and made the most of it. Whether or not you like or play golf, this is a must see. Be encouraged, there is hope and yes, there is light at the end of your tunnel!

And TAKE ACTION today to get out there and make a difference!

Check it out: http://www.thegolfchannel.com/golf-videos/meet-butch-lumpkin-9477/?ref

Don't worry, its from the Golf Channel, so its safe. Your thoughts?
**********************************************

Hear Dave daily on national radio network

I was recently invited to join well known syndicated radio personality Rodney Baucom on his morning show, the "Get Up and Go" morning show heard on 21 radio stations around the United States on the God's Country Radio Network.  It is a positive uplifting country music show with a nationwide audience.  Rodney decided to dub me "Super Dave."  I come in to the studio daily to give my 2 minute inspirational and motivational thought for the day. Check it out on the following stations. I welcome your feedback.

Dave

PS. DISCLAIMER: There is no connection whatsoever between myself and Super Dave Osborne, the funny stuntman who appeared regularly on the Johnny Carson show back in the 70's or Nike commercials in the '90's. Bob Einstein AKA Super Dave was also a writer for the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour back in the '60's. Although I loved his red, white and blue  jumpsuit. Anyone know where I can get one?

Listen to the Get Up and Go morning show on these stations:

KGCM, 90.9FM, Belgrade, MT

                      89.5FM, Great Falls, MT

               WOKR, 93.5FM, Remsen, NY
                            94.1FM, Utica, NY

                 KGCO 88.3FM, Fort Collins, CO
                           107.3FM, Loveland, CO

                 K218DL, 91.5FM, Scottsbluff, NE

                 KGCN, 91.7FM Roswell, NM

                 KQGC, 91.1FM Belen-Socorro, NM

                 KGCX, 107.1FM Wilmore, KY

                 WGCQ, 98.7FM, Hayti, MO

                 WNBW, 88.1FM, Tazewell, VA

                WPRN, 107.7FM, Meridian, MS

                KGCL, 90.9FM, Boise (Jordan Valley), OR

                KGCE, 107.3FM, Lubbock, TX
                             94.1FM and 99.1FM also in Lubbock
                             91.9FM in Texarkana

                WGCN, 90.5FM , Nashville, GA
                           101.7FM, Valdosta, GA

                 KGCD, 89.1FM, Lincoln, ND

Watch for Dave's new book! Coming soon...

 Pre-Orders now being accepted for  summer publication.

Coming soon to Amazon Kindle for instant download

or paperback book. (Scroll down for order options)

Sneak Preview of my new TV commercial in HD

"Hot off the press"... my new high definition television commercial begins airing this week. I want to thank my production team for doing an excellent job.  Take a look and see what I mean.
Dave

Dave Henning Tarkenton Financial HDTV from David Henning on Vimeo.

Your comments and feedback are welcome.  Have a great day!

IT'S CHUCK NORRIS's BIRTHDAY TODAY!

Famous actor and Martial Arts Hall of Fame recipient CHUCK NORRIS turned 70 today.

Here is some of the info from Chuck's bio on his official website:  ChuckNorris.com

• Served in the United States Air Force in Korea. 
• Owned a chain of karate schools in California.
• Trained Steve McQueen, Bob Barker, Priscilla Presley
• Competed in 197 Karate Tournaments with an astounding record of 183 wins.
• Kickstart is a middle school program that keeps at risk children away from drugs and gangs. Created by Chuck Norris, it was first known as "Kick Drugs Out of America." KickStart is currently operating in over 30 schools, and helping over 4,300 boys and girls. Its first implementations were in M C Williams Middle School in Houston, Texas, and helped 150 students.
• Awarded the Veteran of the Year Award by the United States Air Force in 2001.
• Commissioned Police Officer, Terrell, Texas
• Christian Motivational Speaker for Bishop T.D. Jakes and other ministries

Norris created the martial art Chun Kuk Do, which is based primarily on Tang Soo Do and includes elements from every combat style he knows. Like many other martial arts, Chun Kuk Do includes a code of honor and rules to live by. These rules are from Chuck Norris's personal code. They are:

1. I will develop myself to the maximum of my potential in all ways.
2. I will forget the mistakes of the past and press on to greater achievements.
3. I will continually work at developing love, happiness and loyalty in my family.
4. I will look for the good in all people and make them feel worthwhile.
5. If I have nothing good to say about a person, I will say nothing.
6. I will always be as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own.
7. I will maintain an attitude of open-mindedness.
8. I will maintain respect for those in authority and demonstrate this respect at all times.
9. I will always remain loyal to my God(s), my country, family and my friends.
10. I will remain highly goal-oriented throughout my life because that positive attitude helps my family, my country and myself. 

Like Chuck, we are living in a generation that is living longer than ever. Protect yourself. Don't die broke.
For more information on Safe Money Choices for your retirement, go to GrowMyDollars.com

Minnesota Vikings Hero Talks About Safe Money For Retirement

NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback Fran Tarkenton shares some strategies for preserving and safely growing your retirement nest egg. Listen to Fran Tarkenton of Tarkenton Financial describes the benefits of Fixed Indexed Annuities and guaranteed income for life. Contact your North Carolina local authorized representative and licensed insurance professional Dave Henning at 704-780-1533 to find out if this income for life strategy makes sense for you.

Safe Money Choices for Your Retirement

The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel

Great book. I recommend it.
Answers the deep and troubling questions.

Here's one example:

Cartoon on Boston College professor's door: Two turtles. One says, "Sometimes I'd like to ask why He allows poverty, famine and injustice when He could do something about it." The other turtle says, "I'm afraid God might ask me the same question."

DONATE NOW TO HAITI EARTHQUAKE RELIEF

     The United States of America along with several countries around the world have quickly mobilized to help earthquake torn Haiti, the island nation just over 700 miles off the coast of Florida.

     Several of my Mooresville doctor friends just spent 2 weeks there providing medical care and surgeries.
     Anyone with a mobile phone and an account with a major wireless carrier can text the phrase “Haiti” to the number 90999 and donate $10 to the Red Cross. ... The phone company is funneling 100% of the money directly to the Red Cross.

FREE 2011 IREDELL COUNTY-MOORESVILLE MAPS NOW AVAILABLE

2011 Mooresville-Iredell County Maps are available for FREE at the following locations:
Thank you to all my gracious restaurant owner friends...
Be sure to patronize them...great food!



Small Fry Diner, Brawley School Rd, Mooresville
Lynette and Louis, Owners

Daily Grind Restaurant-Brawley School Rd,
AND Main Street downtown, Mooresville
Bob and Deb, Owners

Dairy Queen- Exit 33, Mooresville

Big League Hot Dog-Highway 21, Mooresville
Jeff and Nancy Spielman, Owner


Click HERE to see the Tarkenton Financial ad and coupon

Review-Fran Tarkenton's New Biography: "Every Day Is Game Day"

I just finished reading Fran Tarkenton's new biography, "Every Day Is Game Day." It has been my privilege to work with Fran over this past year as one of his business partners. Watch what Fran says about it in the video above.


Besides being loaded with rare photos of his NFL days with the Minnesota Vikings, the New York Giants, and his induction into the football Hall of Fame, Fran tells some fascinating stories about his childhood, growing up in the back alleys of Washington, DC. and moving to Athens, Georgia. The son of a preacher, Fran has that same fervor and zeal that has propelled his success over all these years.


He also relates inside stories of playing high school football and then playing in college for the Georgia Bulldogs. Also there are fascinating behind the scenes stories about coaches, players and the games that made him a record breaking Hall of Fame quarterback. His relationship with coach Bud Grant and players like Ahmad Rashad is telling about the character of this All-Star football player.

Especially touching is the loss of his father to a heart attack following the Vikings loss to Roger Staubach and the Dallas Cowboys when the "Hail Mary" pass was born.

There are some not so serious, even laughable moments as Fran relates his days as a Monday Night Football commentator, working alongside the great Don Meredith and the famous sports pundit Howard Cosell.

In, Every Day Is Game Day" you will discover some great insights into the man, the legend and the legacy of Fran Tarkenton, one of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game. The stats and the stories speak for themselves:

• Almost instant star in very first game with new franchise with 4 touchdown passes, 1961
• Moved to New York Giants in 1967, back to Vikings in 1972 in stunning trades
• At retirement leading lifetime passer in 6467 attempts
• Leading passing quarterback with 3686 completions at retirement
  
• 47003 total yards passed
• Passed for 342 touchdowns
• Rushed for 3674 yards and 32 touchdowns
• Led Vikings to 3 Super Bowls
• All NFL player 4 times
• Selected for the Pro Bowl 9 times
• Famous for exciting elusive scrambling style of play
  

His fierce drive and determination are balanced by his commitment, care and concern about the people around him. I cried reading about Fran helping one of his business partners connect with some of their long lost family.


On the verge of turning 70, (though you'd never know it) Fran is still extremely active with the businesses he started and is still considered a hero to thousands of loyal fans, business associates and friends. Always a devoted father and husband,with high and noble ideals, I believe you will find this book to be an eye opener about what it takes to be a high achiever and a winner. Fran Tarkenton is all of that and more.

Do I recommend this book. The answer is a resounding YES! You will be encouraged, your heart will be stirred, you will be re-energized and, I believe, forever changed.

About the author: David Henning is the President of the Freshstart Company, LLC and has over thirty years experience as a radio talk show host, radio and television copywriter, newspaper editor and public speaker. Having started, owned and operated several businesses, Dave is a proven leader in the business world. Dave is a freelance copywriter and has authored hundreds of articles about helping people get a fresh start in life.

What Is Your Mission?

"There comes a special moment in everyone's life, a moment for which that person was born. That special opportunity, when he seizes it, will fulfill his mission- a mission for which he is uniquely qualified. In that moment, he finds greatness. It is his finest hour."

-Winston Churchill

Today, ask yourself, "What is MY mission? Why am I here? How can I move forward to discover, cultivate and achieve my God-given mission?" Instead of focusing on how much "stuff" you can market and sell, focus on changing the world for the better by become who you were meant to be. Let go of your preconceived notions and watch what happens.

CARPE DIEM- "Seize the Day!"

About the author: David Henning is the President of the Freshstart Company, LLC and has over thirty years experience as a radio talk show host, radio and television copywriter, newspaper editor and public speaker. Dave is a freelance copywriter and has authored hundreds of articles about helping people get a fresh start in life. Copyright © 2005 David Henning and the Freshstart Co.

How saying Thank You can grow your business

It was the 1970's. While I was a graduate student in Kansas City I landed a prime time job as a morning drive disk jockey on a well known radio station. I was doing very well adjusting to my new found fame as a local celebrity. It was lots of fun and I was enjoying life.

One day I went into the General Manager's office and asked for a raise. We had just bought our first house and also had a lot of medical bills from our firstborn son who had cerebral palsy. Surely he could see how valuable I was to the station's image. Didn't I deserve a raise?

He proceeded to tell me that it wasn't in the budget. However, he explained that if I would take myself off the air and go into the sales department I could give myself a raise. In fact, an unlimited raise based on my performance. Now that sounded intriguing.

But I was scared. It was an intimidating idea.

Well, up to that point my sales experience included selling flower seeds and greeting cards door to door when I was about 12 years old. My pay came in the form of prizes that I could select out of a cool color catalog. Or was it black and white? Things like a camera, binoculars, or a telescope. Stuff little boys love.

Oh yeah, I did have a paper route as a teenager and had to be sure to collect the money from all the subscribers so I could get paid. I figured out a little collections trick to reduce my workload. I clipped a mail order form from the back of a comic book and ordered a return address stamp. If I placed a pre-addressed envelope in the newspaper once a month I could get a large percentage of my customers to just mail me their check. So I only had to collect in person from the remaining few. Worked like a charm.

Then there was the job at my high school friend's parents' business, a swimming pool company right down the street from my house. I ran the pool supply store and sold in ground and above ground pools. Unfortunately, at 17 years old I was fired from that job for using some inappropriate common vernacular slang in earshot of the boss.

I can't remember if that was before or after I was fired from the local I.G.A. grocery store. (Are those still around?) The manager called me in to his office one day to inform me that I just wasn't cut out for the grocery store business. I didn't think a 15 year old was looking for a long term career stocking shelves. Now I never did find out if I was fired for blowing up cans of pork and beans in the incinerator in the stock room, (Before pollution controls and global warming), or whether they didn't like me riding the back of grocery carts out to the little old lady's cars to help them load up.

So you can see my sales experience and training was on the slim side when I approached the GM at the radio station.

Right about that time a retired preacher gave me an old book called, The Success System That Never Fails by W. Clement Stone, the Chicago insurance millionaire. Clem Stone had been the manager of Napoleon Hill, author of Think And Grow Rich. Between each chapter there was a clever saying under the title, "Little Hinges That Swing Big Doors."

That book gave me the courage to prepare a detailed presentation to my General Manager outlining exactly how I would go about selling radio advertising and reach specific goals. He said it was the best presentation he had ever seen. Quite honestly, I don't know how many other presentations he had reviewed.

He gave me the green light to move into the sales office and occupy my own desk. My new sales job also launched me on a lifetime of sales, marketing and advertising as well as introducing me to the greatest sales trainers in the world via live seminars and books. Lots and lots of books. A few years ago I was honored to have my picture taken with Mark Victor Hansen, author of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Mark presented me with an advertising award for a television commercial I had created.

One of the results of accepting the sales job was that I won several sales awards at that radio station and still have a specially designed award certificate hanging on the wall of my office after 30 years!

One of the very first things I learned way back when was to hand write a Thank You note to each of my advertising customers. Back then there was no internet, no personal computers, no email, no Twitter or Facebook. It was all manual labor. Go to the store and buy the greeting cards, go the Post Office and buy the stamps, write the notes (by hand), stamp the envelope, address the envelope, go to the mailbox, deposit the card.

But my efforts paid off. The next time I'd walk into a clients store or business it was like I was a long lost friend. "Hi Dave!" was the enthusiastic welcome I got most often. It gave me a huge edge over the competition. There were times when my competitor would leave an advertising proposal and my clients would ask me to review it and give my opinion! Imagine that...

The trust and friendship I earned came as a result of
1. showing up on time for appointments,
2. always doing what I said I would do, and
3. always being grateful for the business.

A greeting card was the cement on the relationship. And not just one thank you card. I'd learn their spouse's name, their children's names, their dog's name. And I'd find out when their birthday was. So there were multiple reasons to keep in touch. Tom Hopkins tells the story of building a multi-million dollar real estate business from sending cards.

Relationships can't be bought. Relationships can't be faked. You are either genuine and sincere or not.

Now comes the problem. Or should I say challenge? Sending a thank you card is a lost art form. We either don't have the time or don't take the time. Many are victims of the "fast sale" mentality. Get them to sign on the dotted line and move on to the next sale.

Statistics show it is far easier to get repeat sales from satisfied customers than it is to generate new clients.

Here is the exciting news. Are you sitting down? Are you ready for this? About two years ago my business consultant introduced me to an ONLINE GREETING CARD PROGRAM. No, I don't mean e-cards. I'm talking about a real physical thank you card or birthday card that you can send from your desktop or laptop or even your Blackberry.

The company I discovered offers a selection of over 13,000 cards of every category imaginable. Hundreds of business owners, managers and sales people are flocking to this business tool like crazy.

It is so simple and fast that I have personal sent out over 1200 cards just over the past year! I select a card, type in my message, auto-fill the address from a built in contact manager and click SEND. The card is printed, stuffed in a real envelope, stamped with a real stamp and mailed by noon the next day.

If that weren't enough, it does it all in my actual handwriting AND my real signature. Not only that, but I can tell the software to add a gift card like Starbucks or American Express. Oh there's so much more but you'll have to check it out for yourself.

Now, based on what I just described, I suppose you are thinking that this must be pretty expensive. Yes, it is very elaborate software.

Well here's another surprise. I can send out a real classy looking glossy card for...
61 CENTS! Plus postage. So with a 44 cent stamp we're talking $1.06. A card like this from Walmart would easily cost $3.50.

Once you sign up, you get a free website and in addition to greeting cards you can send postcards and newsletter size cards the same way. I've used it to promote events, like my Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. I sent out 212 postcard invitations and had over 80 people show up! That's over a 30% response rate. Fantastic!

Concerned about cost? This company allows you to have resale rights through what they call their "Entrepreneur Package," and will send you a check for $120 for every referral that gets a wholesale package. So do the math. It would take no time at all to recoup your investment. The question you have to ask yourself is this...Is your business worth the investment?

Heh, this isn't for everyone. It may not be for you. Go ahead and send me an email and I'll gladly give you all the details. info@freshstartstore.com

You can probably tell that I'm pretty excited about this. So let me wrap things up by saying don't take my word for it. Decide for yourself. Email me now at info@freshstartstore.com to take a test drive and send a real card for free.

From there its up to you.

If you're experience is anything like mine, I'll bet you send me a thank you card.

My experience has been very positive in building great relationships with my clients (and family and friends). And I've gotten plenty of referrals as a result.

I will be sending out cards for the rest of my life.
***************************************

Entrepreneur Launches New Business In Spite of Recession

I have a friend in Pennsylvania who I've know for about ten years. Now here's a guy that speaks four languages ( or is it five?). He's very friendly and easy going and a fun guy to be around. We've attended several company conventions in Las Vegas in the past. In fact, as I now recall, we were both on the bill as motivational speakers at a leadership training event in Ohio.

Well, lo and behold, this guy calls me a few months ago and in the midst of the recession has launched a new manufacturing company with a product that has hit the market like a storm. In a very short time he has been in negotiations with national distribution companies and has gathered a seasoned team of representatives to market this cool product that took him six years to develop.

Talk about determination. Six years! Some would consider this the worst time to launch a new company. I beg to differ. Do you homework. The Great Depression was a time when some brand new companies were started by some ambitious entrepreneur's that are still going today. For instance, United Technologies Corporation, an aerospace company, was started in 1929. and in 2008 reported $58.7 BILLION in revenues. That's billion with a "b."

Fred Smith started Federal Express during the oil crisis of 1973 at the Memphis airport. On its first night, in April, FedEx shipped 186 packages to 25 U.S. cities. Ever heard of FedEx?

So I suppose you'd like to know what it is. Right? Fair enough. It is an all natural granola snack cookie. Not just that, he's using a very special fiber ingredient called Konjac fiber. So this all natural granola cookie can be used not only to replace junk food, but also for weight control.

Seems this Konjac fiber gently and safely expands in your stomach and gives you that full feeling for an extended period of time. Cut calories, loose weight. Sounds simple enough. If that weren't enough, it tastes great. Trust me, I've tried it.

So I was commissioned by the company to develop some marketing for them. So here goes. Check out this cool little video and give me your honest opinion. Go ahead, I can take it. Let me know what you think. It's only about 3 minutes. CLICK HERE NOW: http://www.eathealthygranola.net

Thanks for checking it out.

About the author: David Henning is the President of the Freshstart Company, LLC and has over thirty years experience as a radio talk show host, radio and television copywriter, newspaper editor and public speaker. Dave is a freelance copywriter and has authored hundreds of articles about helping people get a fresh start in life.

New Joe Gibbs book-Game Plan For Life

On Friday, August 31st my neighbor Jeff and I went to Charlotte to a breakfast at the Weston hotel to hear my friend, Coach Joe Gibbs speak about his new book hot off the press: Game Plan For Life, co-authored by Jerry Jenkins.

I'd say there was a pretty good turn-out. Over 1200 people, to be exact! We sat at the table next to Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory. There were several former NFL players there and some NASCAR folks too. Joe was introduced by his son J.D. who is now the President of Joe Gibbs Racing.

Joe always has a great sense of humor and some wonderful stories from his football days on the gridiron.

So here's a guy who was a physical education major from San Diego State University. He goes on to be offensive line coach at four major colleges before moving up to the National Football League. For seventeen years, he served as assistant coach to the St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the San Diego Chargers before getting the call to become the new head coach for the Washington Redskins.

In spite of losing his first five games with the Redskins, Joe went on to lead the team for 12 seasons and led them to eight playoff appearances, four NFC titles, and three Super Bowl titles.

In 1996, Gibbs was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. He was one of the winningest coaches in NFL history, at that time having a record of 124 wins and 60 losses, and a post-season record of 16 wins and five losses.

If that were not enough, upon retiring (the first time) from the Redskins, in 1992 Joe focused his full attention to his NASCAR race teams and now boasts three Nascar titles. Driver Bobby Labonte holds one title and Tony Stewart won two championships. And this season is looking strong with his newest drivers, Denny Hamlin, Kyle Bush and Joey Logano. Joey is the youngest driver in Sprint Cup history to win a race at just 19 years old.

So it is certainly an honor and a privilege to know Joe and his wife Pat personally. I first met Joe when the Lake Norman Young Life area was birthed, splitting off of the Charlotte area eleven years ago. My wife and I were honored to chair the adult leadership committee of this non-profit high school youth organzation. www.younglife.org We often held our monthly meeting at the Gibbs home where Joe would be walking around with one of the grand babies on his shoulder with a burp cloth. Joes' son J.D. and wife Melissa joined the committee and also continue to actively support Young Life.

So Joe has been on this grueling whirlwind tour promoting his new book, Game Plan for Life for about a month now. His fierce determination and focus that are reminiscent of his coaching days is apparent as he travels the country getting the word out.

How did this book get started? Thanks for asking. He commissioned a study that essentially asked the question, What are the key topics that will lead people to a "successful" life?

He put together an amazing list of Christian men (Josh McDowell, Chuck Colson, Ron Blue and many others) to write on a variety of topics, which is woven together by Joe's personal testimony. He will also be interviewing for video all of these authors (each committed to do four hours of interviews with Coach Gibbs over the next year). Gibbs considers this his legacy work.

The foreword is aptly written by former Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy who has also won a Super Bowl.

The book is interwoven with many fascinating stories from Joe's colorful career and abruptly begins with the shooting death of Redskins player Sean Taylor.

This is a must read for anyone serious about true success. I highly recommend it. However you can't have the copy that Joe signed for me... unless you name is Dave. Not.
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About the author: David Henning is the President of the Freshstart Company, LLC and has over thirty years experience as a radio talk show host, radio and television copywriter, newspaper editor and public speaker. Dave is a freelance copywriter and has authored hundreds of articles about helping people get a fresh start in life.

Stunning photos TODAY from India

My son in law, Jon McCormack is an incredible photographer. From his Alaska photos to Yosemite National Park to Yellowstone to Kenya and Australia you will enjoy his work.

In fact, Jon was selected from a small group of photographers to travel to India with National Geographic and World Vision to India. He left California on Friday and you can see from his blog that he has been busy with some beautiful colorful images taken just this weekend.

When you view these photos, it will really surprise you to learn that Jon is colorblind! Check it out for yourself: http://bit.ly/ZPwCE

What about you? Imagine your potential now as you stretch yourself to grow in new ways each day.

Enjoy! Dave

About the author: David Henning is the President of the Freshstart Company, LLC and has over thirty years experience as a radio talk show host, radio and television copywriter, newspaper editor and public speaker. Dave is a freelance copywriter and has authored hundreds of articles about helping people get a fresh start in life. Copyright © 2009 David Henning and the Freshstart Co. LLC

What's Your Excuse?

Okay, so my neighbor across the hall in the office building where I spend most of my life sends me this "interesting, must see" video clip.

This amidst 68 emails that came in just this morning.

If you're like me, you get a gazillion forwarded emails a day with someone wanting you to "check this out." Usually it's a ridiculous political opinion forwarded from "who knows where" attempting to raise your blood pressure and turn up the "anger and outrage thermostat" a notch or two.

Or worse yet, they want you to forward it to ten people you know for good luck or blessing and if not, who knows, you might be in for something dreadful.

Well, I stopped playing that game a long time ago, if I ever really did. You see, I choose who and what to let into my brain. Without being "pie in the sky" or "pollyanna," I choose to try to see the best in others and the best in even bad situations. Medical and University research confirms it's better and a healthier lifestyle.

It has been shown in clinical studies that unresolved bitterness, anger and unforgiveness does not hurt the person or issue that has ticked you off or made your blood boil. Not one bit.

Who it does hurt is you. Don't take my word for it. Do your own due diligence and PRIMARY research. There are cases of high blood pressure, strokes, heart attack and even cancer that can be traced back to what I call "Ebenezer Scrooge Syndrome," or E.S.S. ( I just made that up.)

So what's my point? Thanks for asking. If you think you have an excuse for not being successful, or feel you've gotten a raw deal... or better yet... you're waiting for the federal government to take care of you or improve your situation....

Then watch this incredible video from a guy who makes no excuses and has taken what he's been dealt in life and made the most of it. Whether or not you like or play golf, this is a must see. Be encouraged, there is hope and yes, there is light at the end of your tunnel!

And TAKE ACTION today to get out there and make a difference!

Check it out: http://www.thegolfchannel.com/golf-videos/meet-butch-lumpkin-9477/?ref

Don't worry, its from the Golf Channel, so its safe. Your thoughts?
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The Power of Enthusiasm

I was thinking about you today and I wanted to share this important thought with you. I hope you enjoy it.

Enthusiasm gives you drive, puts your brain in gear to create ideas and solutions to the challenges you are facing.

Enthusiasm releases healthy natural healing hormones in your body that gives you energy and health.

Enthusiasm helps you put past failures behind you, forgive yourself and focus on the powerful positive future God has for you.

Enthusiasm gives you an attractiveness that acts like a magnet that drawing people and success to you.

People enjoy being around enthusiastic people.

Enthusiasm will create a happiness in you, gives you a positive attitude that drives out doubt and fear.

Enthusiasm gives you a healthy self-esteem.Enthusiasm helps you to like yourself in spite of past failures.

Enthusiasm can propel you to the next level in your life, career, and relationships.

Enthusiasm will open your mind to new ways of doing things,

Enthusiasm will weed out negative self limiting thoughts.

Enthusiasm will move you to seek out people who have attained success who you can learn from.

Enthusiasm will give you a thirst for knowledge and wisdom that will grow you.

Enthusiasm gives you courage, boldness and stability.

Enthusiasm will give people the desire to want to be on your team and learn from you.

Enthusiasm will make you a good learner and student.

Enthusiasm will encourage you to step out of your comfort zone in faith and get around other successful people so you can grow in your own development.

Enthusiasm has nothing to do with some egocentric belief in your self and your power and your ability and what you are capable of doing in and of yourself, but recognizing that you do have abilities and talents that can be developed and expanded with the help of others.

Enthusiasm Is a teachable spirit, knowing deep inside yourself that you don’t know everything that but that there are people who can mentor you and help you get to where you are going.

Enthusiasm has many side benefits, several of which are inner peace, self confidence, assurance, optimism, genuine hope.

Enthusiasm goes hand in hand with integrity, honesty and a genuine desire to help others succeed with their best interests at heart.

Enthusiasm can lead to a life of encouragement and fulfillment that includes learning how to encourage yourself and others.

Encourage meaning coming along side someone and giving them courage.

I once heard John Maxwell, author of The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, give a talk called, “The Battle is Won, BEFORE the Battle is Begun”

What does that mean? That means that the outcome of any task or challenge you attempt will be already determined by what you THINK before you begin.

The short young backwoods shepherd boy David could not have stood toe to toe at the battlefront with a nine foot giant name Goliath if he had not already won that battle in his mind. He was under equipped, outsized, outgunned and out manned.

His brothers and the rest of his country’s army stood in the background quivering in fear at the site of this ugly big dude. But he knew he could beat this loudmouthed challenger on his own turf and marched right up to the enemy without fear and knocked him out cold with one small rock and a slingshot.

The battle is won before the battle is begin.

The biggest battle you face is within the space between your ears, your mind.

Maxwell also relates a more contemporary story.

As I write this, it’s the month of March madness. The NCAA basketball finals are being played around the country and Michigan will face North Carolina in the Final Four after Michigan knocked off Kentucky in double overtime in Austin, Texas.

Years ago, when Digger Phelps was Coaching Notre Dame basketball, they were facing John Wooden’s UCLA team in the finals.

UCLA that season had 88 wins and 3 championships under their belt. They were like an unstoppable basketball machine.

How did Coach Phelps train his Notre Dame team to face down this giant?

At practices before the big game, he had the team celebrate as if they had won and go to the basket and CUT DOWN THE NETS!

John Maxwell explains that Digger Phelps understood what it would take to prepare his team to win. By cutting down those nets he instilled in his players that THE BATTLE IS WON BEFORE THE BATTLE IS BEGUN!

And guest what happened.

They went on to beat UCLA by ONE POINT and broke the Bruins winning streak!

You can accomplish the same thing with enthusiasm!

Print this out. Carry it with you. Every day, where ever you are, stop what you are doing and shout out loud. “I AM ENTHUSIASTIC!” I dare you. Watch what starts happening to you. Enthusiasm. It will change your life!

David Henning, President, The Freshstart Company, LLC,
“Solving Problems, Improving Lives” Copyright 2005
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