People make the world go round. The more people you know and consider friends, the better luck you have for success. So, it’s important to be interested in people, rather than trying to make yourself “interesting” for others.

Today, the next time you see someone, be it an old friend or a new friend or a co-worker or client, say something that is sincere and true. It might be, “You know, every time I come into your office, it always looks so organized,” or, “I see where your daughter’s team won their game over the weekend, congratulations, dad,” or, “You always look so nice.” Or even, “Your work is top notch and I’m proud to work with you.” We underestimate the power of a compliment and the role they play in helping others get better, feel valued, and be someone who wants to help you. Don’t misunderstand me; this isn’t a game. You’re not trying to trick people into liking you; you’re trying to be a friend and friends help friends. When business professionals grasp this concept, great things can happen and they will happen…..naturally.

I have always tried to be nice and do the right thing and it’s amazing how our businesses can grow just by doing that.

What do you mean we can’t get rid of those weeds in time? Then go over there and put some fancy signs with Latin names in front of them.

Walt Disney

How many times do you allow yourself to say something can’t be done? It’s very important, especially in today’s economy, that you foster an environment that centers on can do, not can’t do.

While I know there are a lot of things not going very well, I also know if you do nothing, you can expect nothing to happen. The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth!

This week, get out of that rut; think positively, look around for opportunities, and go out and make the best of what you’ve got. You might be amazed at what you’ll find! Walt Disney was right on with his quote, if you ask me. Have a great week!

Oh, yeah, for a great dose of positive energy, motivation, great ideas, and fun, sign up for my event GROW! 2009, in Dayton, Ohio next month. Click here for details!

Hello, my great idea for this week is to sign up for GROW!2009 in Dayton Ohio from February 26-28. This will be an annual event and it will replace the Boot Camps that I have held in the past. Much of the event will be similar to the Boot Camps, lots of motivation, lots of great ideas and lots of fun. But there will be changes. This year I have done everything I can to have a very beneficial conference that is also affordable for you.

I know that many of you are concerned about 2009 and beyond. I also know that the best investment you can make is ALWAYS in yourself. At GROW! 2009 here’s some of what you will learn:

• How to create, find, and exploit opportunities in today’s marketplace.
• How to motivate yourself in an environment of negativity and get your staff believing success and growth is indeed possible.
• Countless ways to cut costs and get lean from some entrepreneurs who have done just that.
• How to get your personal and professional life organized once and for all (you wouldn’t believe how much money people waste not being able to find things and not being organized).
• Why now is the absolute best time to be marketing and the top 10 ways to market right now. (None of them cost very much.)
• What to tell your banker to get a loan and what they really want from their customers.
• What the most successful entrepreneurs are doing right now in the area of planning, operations and staffing.
• How to run a business that keeps your customers coming back – in Good Times and in Bad.
• Personal stories from entrepreneurs who had their best year ever in 2008 and how they plan on topping that in 2009.

This is an event for the starving entrepreneur and the successful entrepreneur. It’s one you should bring your whole team to. You’ve often received our offers and thought about coming; well, now is the time to attend one of my events. Now more than ever you need a good attitude. 2009 is going to be a tough one for many of us. Don’t make it any tougher than it has to be. Join me in Dayton, Ohio for a life-changing experience that is sure to help you make 2009 a whole lot better than you thought it could be. Where many of us see adversity, I see opportunity, and I am excited about what 2009 might bring, and I’m really excited about what 2010 will bring. Theses times present some unbelievable opportunities for all of us, so don’t stay stuck in your rut. Get out of that rut and sign up right now. (Remember, the only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth.)

Have a great week. Sign up now and have a great year.

Oh, yeah, this event is not just for landscapers; it’s for anyone who wants to find ways to beat the competition, make sales, get motivated, and put a plan together for 2009 that enables you to be prepared for the good things to come.

If you want to talk to me personally about the event, please call 1.866.GRUNDER and my staff will put you through. I’m on the road a lot, so I might have to call you from an airport, but I will call you back and remind you what a great opportunity this is for yourself and your company. Companies all over the US are begging for motivation, so get to Dayton and put a bounce in your step as you find ways to win in 2009!

When was the last time you went to the doctor to get a physical? My idea for you this week is to do so. Don’t put it off; please, this is serious stuff, folks. Health is never something to take for granted. Let’s make 2009 a year to get healthy and stay healthy. Your family needs you and you certainly want to be around for them as well.